Helpful American Etiquette

Tips for "Tipping"

There are few social customs in America that are more confusing than 'tipping for services received'. For many Americans, adding gratuities, is a normal part of their daily life. They know exactly how much tip to add for every occasion.

But to a new Desi, circumnavigating the 'tipping map' in a new country can be quite nerve wrecking!
Who to pay?
How much to pay?
Pay cash? But I don't have change!
Do you have to pay even if you don't like the service provided?

Today's blog therefore is all about 'Tipping Tricks' that will make your social life easier. This rough guideline hopefully will be of some help, especially to all new- comers.

1.Restaurants

• Take out food: no tip necessary.
• Fast Food joints or Coffee shop: none expected, even if a tipping jar is placed in view!
• Regular restaurants: Check if gratuities are included in the restaurant bill. In that case you do not have to pay anything extra. If not, 10-15% of the total bill is a good number. 20% is expected for large groups of 12 or more. Unless you are paying the entire restaurant bill for a specific reason, each person or couple will add the tip on their portion of the bill.
• High-end restaurants: 25% of the bill.
• Home delivery: $2-5. Bigger the order the more you pay
• Buffet style restaurants:$2 -3 on your table for the server.
• Maitre d' if he finds a table for you: $15 minimum
• Bar Tender: $1 per drink
• Valet services: $3-5
• Coat room services: $1-2
• Ladies room attendant: $1

2.Hotels

• Cleaning Maids: $1-2 per night.Leave it in an envelope addressed to the cleaners on the day you check out of the hotel room.
• Bell Hop: $1-2 per luggage piece
• Concierge services: None for information only. $5 only if providing additional services like ordering tickets, organizing a local trip etc

3.Travels

• Taxis /Cabs: 10-15% of the bill, or $2-5 for help with luggage
• Airport porters: $1-2 per piece of luggage
• Wheelchair services: $5 minimum
• Tour Guide & Driver: $15 minimum if on a package tour or $2 per day

4.Saloon services

• Barber / Hairdresser: 10-15% of the bill or $5 minimum
• Massage/ Manicurist etc: 10-15% of the bill or $5 minimum

5.Misc

• Cleaners, gardeners etc that work at your home on a regular basis: None required. But cash or other gifts at Christmas time are greatly appreciated.

A Few Handy & Helpful Tips about 'TIPS'!

• Carry several small bills with you for tipping, specially when traveling.You can ask for change in a restaurant, or charge it to your credit card, but for individual services you are expected to pay the exact dollars.
• Stick to one number for convenience: 15% of the total bill & $2 per service.
• If you are unhappy with any service you don't have to tip!
• It is socially very acceptable to pay for only your own food or drink when you go out with friends or co-workers, and tip accordingly.
• Another odd custom...if you offer to pay for an American friend's meal, they usually will offer to pay the tip. These days I simply smile & accept graciously. Or say 'done already next time for sure'.
• Tip with a smile...after all the folks that serve you are humans with a tough job

Source: Melting Point