This article explores tipping customs around the world, particularly focusing on countries where tipping is not customary or is even prohibited. It highlights practices in various European nations, such as France, Ireland, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Spain, and Portugal, as well as Asian countries like China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Additionally, it offers insights into how to navigate these cultural differences and suggests enjoying a staycation with grilling as an alternative to complex tipping situations.
Understanding Tipping Etiquette: Countries Where Tipping is Not Allowed
The peak travel months of July and August attract numerous families and couples seeking summer getaways. Popular restaurants, bars, and quaint cafés buzz with tourists eager to savor the local cuisine. A common concern for travelers is the tipping customs of their destination. Should they leave a tip on the bill? If so, how much is deemed appropriate?
Tipping practices significantly differ across the globe. In the United States, for instance, tips constitute a substantial portion of a service worker’s earnings, with the minimum wage hovering just above 6 euros. As a result, customers typically tip between 15 to 20 percent of their total bill. This practice extends to bars, taxis, and hotel staff, where patrons often leave a few dollar bills as gratuity.
Conversely, tipping norms vary in other nations. In this article, we provide insights into how much you should tip in some of the most popular vacation spots in Europe and Asia.
Tipping in Europe: Countries Where You Can Show Your Appreciation
In France, tipping is not a necessity. Most restaurant bills include a service charge of 15 percent labeled ‘Service compris’, meaning an extra tip is not mandatory. However, if you enjoyed your meal, you can leave a tip (termed ‘pourboire’ in French) at your discretion.
In bars and outdoor cafés, tipping is generally uncommon, but if you’re unsure, a simple rounding up of the total is acceptable.
In Ireland, restaurants typically add a service fee of 10 to 15 percent. In pubs, patrons pay for their order directly without tipping. Instead, it’s common to offer the bartender a drink. In group settings, one person may cover the drinks for everyone.
When dining in Greece, leaving a tip is expected, with a minimum of 10 percent being customary. If you’re dissatisfied, you may tip less, but usually, patrons pay the bill first and leave cash for the tip directly, even if they paid with a card.
In Italy, there are specific guidelines for tipping that you can explore further.
Tipping Guidelines for Croatia, Spain, and Portugal
In Croatia, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, and there are no specific charges for it on the bill. A small tip of around 10 percent is a nice gesture. In tourist-heavy areas, a tip of 5 to 10 percent is often expected.
While dining in Spain, it’s standard to leave a cash tip of 5 to 10 percent after your meal. It’s common for one person to pay the entire bill, and if you are with friends, you can settle up later using apps like PayPal.
After a taxi ride or at bars, rounding up the fare is sufficient. However, avoid tipping with small coins, as it may be considered impolite—bills or one- and two-euro coins are preferable.
Portugal follows a similar tipping culture, where around 10 percent is customary in restaurants, while leaving tips in bars is not the norm.
Tipping Practices in Asia: What to Know
In China, tipping is generally not practiced, and in many establishments, it is outright forbidden for staff to accept tips. Simply pay for your food and beverages without additional gratuities. To avoid faux pas, check out our article on essential tips for tourists.
In Japan, tipping is also discouraged. Although not illegal, leaving extra money may be viewed as disrespectful, as providing excellent service is considered standard.
In Thailand and Vietnam, while tipping isn’t widespread, in tourist hotspots in Thailand, leaving a small tip has become somewhat customary. In Vietnam, a small service fee of 5 to 10 percent is often included in the bill.
Enjoying Your Staycation: Mastering the Art of Grilling
If navigating the complexities of tipping in foreign countries feels overwhelming, consider staying home and enjoying a delightful grilling session. While there are no exotic customs to navigate, there are still key tips to keep in mind for a successful charcoal grilling experience.