Before you travel internationally this year, research the gratuity norms of the country/countries you plan to visit. Not being aware of and adhering to social customs in tipping could leave you feeling uncomfortable–especially when money is on the line. With much of the respect in an area hinging on how a person treats hospitality members of staff, it’s more important than ever to understand international tipping customs. People traveling abroad don’t want to find themselves in awkward situations when it comes to taking care of the bill, paying their taxi driver, or thanking hotel workers for their services. To clear up any confusion about how much extra they should be adding onto their bill to cover the tip, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to gratuities around the world.
Here goes tipping customs from around the world:
AUSTRALIA
Although it’s not standard, wait staff in Australia usually appreciate a ten percent gratuity or a bill that is rounded up. Tipping is more common in major metropolitan areas and for tour guides, but it isn’t expected otherwise.
BRAZIL
When leaving a tip in Brazil, it is best to do so subtly, as Brazilians prefer not to make a big deal about the exchange of money. In Brazilian restaurants, it is customary for diners to pay a ten percent service fee. On top of this, servers are always grateful to receive five to ten percent in cash.
CHINA
In mainland China, tipping is not necessary or expected. In some areas, it is even frowned upon. Some high-end restaurants and popular tourist destinations, on the other hand, may become accustomed to receiving modest gratuities.
CROATIA
Tipping practices vary by location in Croatia. It is customary for change to be left at bars, with three to five percent given at casual eating eateries and restaurants, and ten to 15% given at a more expensive establishment.
EGYPT
In Egypt, it is considered polite for tourists to leave gratuities of 5-10% in cash form to their servers. Tipping is also appropriate for taxi and tour guides, with a minimum of 10% generally accepted.
FRANCE
A service charge is almost always included in the final bill at French restaurants, cafes and bars, so gratuities are not necessary. But if you had outstanding service during your visit, workers will appreciate a small token of appreciation.
GERMANY
In Germany, like in the rest of Europe, there is no strong tipping culture. Servers and drivers, however, will be grateful for a rounded-up bill or a small tip.
INDIA
Tipping is not necessary or expected in India, but waiters and waitresses will always be grateful for a modest ten percent tip when no service charge has been added. However, tipping is generally seen as a sign of respect and gratitude. Play it by ear.
ITALY
Tipping isn’t customary in Italy, but it is appreciated by tourists as a gesture of thanks to waiters. Remember to leave a gratuity in cash so that the money can go straight to the server.
JAPAN
Although it is often interpreted as a compliment for staff to be tipped, Japanese employees may politely refuse and might even consider the act insulting at times. Rather than being rewarded, Japanese cultural norms demand that exceptional service be the norm rather than the exception.
NETHERLANDS
Although the Netherlands has a tipping law that requires restaurants to add gratuities to their advertised prices, locals and tourists frequently ask servers for the change or offer tiny thank-yous even though this is against Dutch legislation.
SPAIN
In Spain (as well as many other European countries), a service charge is usually already included in the bill. Tipping isn’t common or expected, though it would be seen as generous if offered.
THAILAND
Although Thailand does not have a customary tipping culture, gratuities for excellent service are always appreciated. In general, a small tip of 50-100 baht per day is appropriate.
UAE
In Emirati cities like Dubai, a ten percent service charge is necessary, however staff will demand an additional 15 to 20 percent gratuity as a sign of appreciation.
USA
In the United States, the service sector has a distinct tipping culture than European countries. Tips can frequently make up a significant portion of a service industry employee’s income. As seen in the film and television industry time and time again, tips might account for a substantial proportion of one’s salary. It is anticipated that both citizens and visitors would give a gratuity of 15 to 20 percent of the final invoice to wait staff, taxi drivers, porters, tour guides, and others who provide services.
In conclusion, tipping customs are different everywhere. Be sure to research the customs of the place you’re visiting so that you can be generous and polite when tipping.