What Is Tipping in Tourism?

By Robert Palmer

Tipping in Tourism: A Guide to Understanding the Custom

If you’re planning to travel, it’s important to understand the customs and traditions of the places you’ll be visiting. One custom that varies greatly from country to country is tipping.

In some places, it’s expected and considered rude not to tip, while in others, it’s not customary at all. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what tipping in tourism is and how it works in different parts of the world.

What is Tipping?

Tipping refers to giving extra money or a gift as a way of showing gratitude or appreciation for a service that has been provided. In tourism, tipping is often given to people who work in the hospitality industry, such as waitstaff, hotel housekeepers, taxi drivers, and tour guides.

Tipping Around the World

Tipping practices vary greatly around the world. Here are some examples:

United States

In the United States, tipping is expected in most situations where you receive a service. The standard tip for waitstaff at restaurants is 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Hotel housekeepers should be tipped $1-2 per night of your stay.

Europe

In Europe, tipping practices vary by country. In general, a service charge may already be included in your bill at restaurants and cafes. If not, it’s customary to leave 5-10% of the total bill as a tip.

Australia and New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, tipping isn’t expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. A tip of 10% is standard for restaurants if there isn’t already a service charge included.

Asia

In Asia, tipping practices can vary greatly from country to country. In Japan, for example, tipping isn’t customary and can even be seen as insulting. However, in other countries like Thailand and Vietnam, tipping is expected in certain situations.

When to Tip

Knowing when to tip can be just as important as knowing how much to tip. Here are some common situations where tipping is expected:

  • Restaurant waitstaff
  • Hotel housekeeping staff
  • Taxi drivers
  • Tour guides
  • Hairdressers and barbers
  • Bartenders
  • Spa staff/massage therapists

Conclusion

Tipping is a custom that varies greatly around the world, but it’s always good to be aware of local customs and expectations. While it’s not always necessary to tip, doing so can show appreciation for great service and help support those who work in the hospitality industry. Always remember that tipping should never be mandatory or expected if the service was poor or unsatisfactory.