How much to tip?

If you ask a handful of people how much to tip in a given situation, you’ll get a handful of different answers and a slew of hot-headed opinions about the “right” thing to do.A So, is the tip included in your bill? In a French restaurant, yes; in most other places,A sometimes depending on the number people in your party, but not always.A Give a tip to a Japanese waiter in Japan and you will get a dirty look because it will be interpreted as a rude display of your wealth. Neglect the tip in a U.S. or Canadian restaurant, and you’ll likely be marked for poor service the next time you visit that place.

If you are in Europe (if you’re lucky enough :-), service charges are included in most meals. If no service charge is included, add 15% to yourbill, 10% for taxis, and $2 per bag to your hotel porter.

If you are in Mexico or other Central American sunny destinations (Oh how I’d like to be there now), 10% in restaurants, round up to the next dollar in taxis, and usually $1 per bag to your hotel porter.

If you are In Asia, let’s say in China, 5% in restaurants is good. In Hong Kong 10%, and in Japan, zero. For taxis, no tip is necessary in China, but in Hong Kong round up to the next dollar.

In U.S. and Canada, 15% to 20% in restaurants , with 20% being the norm at high-end restaurants. 15% in taxis, or round up to the next dollar amount.

Oh, and you’re supposed to tip the pizza delivery guy like you tip a waiter. They rely on tips and use their own car. Keep in mind, a typical tip for a waiter in a restaurant is 15%, but a $2 minimum tip for pizza delivery is usually accepted unless it’s the season to be merry :-).

Category: Lifestyle