Sizzling hot tips guide for holiday gratuities
MillionS of Britons risk social embarrassment and cultural misunderstandings this summer because they do not know how much to tip in restaurants and bars.
Just one in three Britons leaves a tip while abroad and more than half confess to being confused by local customs.
Don Clark, founder of holiday currency service the Travel Money Club, said: “An act of generosity can turn sour done in the wrong manner, while tipping too much drives up your costs.”
in the US, waiting staff expect a substantial tip of around 20 per cent, as do taxi drivers and tour guides. “There will be trouble if you do not give one, so budget in advance,” he added.
in contrast, tipping may be considered insulting in Japan, where good service is considered part of the job. Clark said: “The exception is tour guides, who often rely on tips to boost their wage.”
Tipping customs even vary across Europe, with 5 per cent sufficing in Spain, rising to between 10 and 15 per cent in France: “in Germany, you would typically give 10 per cent directly to waiting staff.”
Rounding up the bill or adding 5 per cent in Australia and new Zealand is fine, but in india everyone expects 10 to 15 per cent: “Dizzying numbers of people need to be tipped, though the actual amounts are small.”
Tourist industry workers expect generous 20 per cent tips in China, Clark added.
As in the UK, it is best to tip in cash rather than add it to your card payment, to ensure the staff member benefits.