International Travel Tipping Etiquette: Tipping Tips from Around the World

When visiting a new country, tourists love to explore the local restaurants and vendors and immerse themselves in the local culture. However, finding the right way to tip can be challenging, especially when rules and norms vary greatly around the world. Failure to understand and adhere to national cultural norms can put travelers in awkward situations, especially when money is involved.

Expectations for tipping vary widely from place to place, and while tipping is optional in the UK, in some countries people expect tipping to compensate for underpaid situations, while in others tipping can be seen as an insult. For example, in the United States, federal law states that employers only pay a tip of $30.2 per hour if an employee earns an extra $13 per month in tips, which is why tipping is so necessary.

James Cole, founder and managing director of luxury cruise specialist Panache Cruises, said:”It is crucial to understand the tipping culture in overseas destinations to avoid any offensive or uncomfortable situations. “Customs and traditions in overseas destinations can be confusing, especially with the wide variation in tipping standards.” In countries like Japan and China, tipping may be seen as offensive and embarrassing, but it is necessary in countries like the United States that make a living from tipping.”

Cole said visitors should do their research beforehand. “But usually around 10 to 15 percent is enough, so be sure to bring enough local currency. Some places include a service charge that may be mandatory or mandatory, so it is best to check before paying. But be sure to calculate it and check that the percentage calculation is correct, as some businesses try to scam tourists by overcharging service fees and suggesting tips. ”

Below is our guide to tipping around the world.

United Kingdom (UK)

Tipping is not required in the UK as everyone’s salary is the statutory national minimum wage. The British are known for not tipping, as there is no customary culture or rules for tipping, so tipping is very casual and depends entirely on how the customer feels about the service they receive. High-end restaurants may charge a service charge, and cancellations can be made if not satisfied. No one will feel offended if there is no tip, but if they receive a tip, whether at a hair salon, taxi, or restaurant, they will be just as grateful.

United States (US)

Tipping is ingrained in American culture, especially since employers in many U.S. states have the right to pay waiters less than the minimum wage, so customers should make up for their wages with generous tips. The lower hourly wage means that not tipping can seem personal, so as a general rule of thumb, 15% to 20% of the bill is a good starting point for tipping and 30% is for providing top-notch service. Taxi drivers, hairdressers, beauty therapists, porters and food delivery workers are also expected to charge for their services in the United States

Europe

In Europe, tipping is a common thing, and in order to get good service, people need to tip, so vacationers should bring change. In some parts of Europe, such as France, a service charge will be included in the bill, but tipping in euros is still welcome. There are many names for insurance premiums, so be sure to have a translation app or guide ready to properly understand these costs.

As a courtesy to waiters and employees, expect to pay 5% to 15%, or round up to the nearest 5 or 10 euros. In many parts of Europe, such as Greece and Spain, tipping can help supplement wages, so it’s always good to tip a little if tourists feel the service is good. Always keep an eye out for exorbitant service charges

Asia

Many Asian countries do not tip as usual, typical or expected, except at popular tourist attractions. Tipping may be welcomed by guides or taxi drivers, but there is no long cultural tradition of tipping; It just evolved with the development of tourism in the West. In some parts of Asia, tipping can be seen as an insult, so rules and situations vary widely. Visitors in parts of Japan and China may even be chased by attendants for refunds. Tipping is more common in regions like Thailand, where tipping 10% is fair and welcome. Before traveling around Asia, do your research to avoid misinterpretation of acts of goodwill.

Australia

Although not expected, tipping is worth it in Australia, but there are no regulations. Visitors are not obligated to tip, and Australian agencies do not add extra fees to service bills. Australia’s tipping culture is very permissive because it does not directly affect workers’ wages. However, a 10% tip can be paid if the service exceeds expectations, but staff reportedly prefer to be welcomed with respect and humor.

Middle east

In the Middle East, especially Dubai, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, waiters are used to tipping around 15% to 20%. Even if the service charge is increased, whether in restaurants or hotels, employees want to receive bonuses. Services in the Middle East often exceed expectations, which is why tipping is given. Remember to give tips discreetly according to their culture.

Gratuities at sea

As more and more people choose cruises as their annual vacation, it is becoming increasingly important for vacationers to understand tipping etiquette on cruise ships. On most cruise ships, tipping will be automatically added to your onboard account to cover the staff’s tip.

Recommended amounts vary by cruise line, but typical amounts are $15 to $20 per person per day. However, most luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea Cruises, include all tips and gratuities in their fares. So, when pricing your cruise vacation, make sure to calculate the total cost of the cruise, not just the ticket price.