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When you're travelling overseas, tipping is one of those cultural things you're just expected to know
With more Malaysians travelling overseas, it's important to understand this cultural etiquette, right alongside learning how to greet people properly or figuring out whether you should take your shoes off before entering someone's home.
Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate tipping around the world:
In countries like the US and Canada, tipping is expected and built into everyday service culture
Service workers in these countries often rely on tips as a significant part of their income. Leaving nothing may be interpreted as dissatisfaction with the service.
As a general guide:
- Restaurants: 15% to 20% of the bill
- Bartenders: Around USD1 to USD5 (RM4 to RM21) per drink
- Hotel housekeeping: Around USD2 to USD10 (RM8 to RM42) per night
- Taxi drivers: Round up the fare or add 10%
Of course, tipping etiquette differs from city to city, and you should always research local norms. It's also important to note that some places will already have the service charge included.
Many European countries already include a service charge but small tips are always appreciated
Across parts of France, Germany, Spain, and Italy, service staff typically receive stable wages. But, that doesn't necessarily mean tipping isn't appreciated.
Instead, the practice tends to be more modest:
- Round up the bill at cafés
- Leave 5% to 10% of the total bill for excellent restaurant service
- Tip tour guides if you genuinely enjoyed the experience
The key difference here is that tipping is often viewed as a reward for exceptional service rather than a social norm.
If you're travelling to Japan, leaving a tip can actually create an awkward situation
Japan is perhaps the most well-known example of a country where tipping is frowned upon.
Excellent service is considered part of professional pride. Staff members are expected to perform their duties attentively regardless of additional rewards.
If you leave money on the table at a restaurant, employees may politely return it, and the same principle applies to taxi drivers and hotel staff.
There are exceptions in luxury establishments catering to international visitors, but for most tourists, the safest approach is to pay the stated amount and express your appreciation verbally.
In both Australia and New Zealand, service workers don't place heavy expectations on tipping
This is due to the fact that they make a comparatively higher minimum wage.
Similiar to most of Europe, tipping is generally seen as a reward for exceptional service. And locals generally won't judge you for following the exact amount printed on the receipt.
For the Middle East, tipping practices can depend heavily on the destination
In destinations such as the United Arab Emirates, upscale restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions frequently attract international visitors who are accustomed to tipping.
Common practices include:
- Restaurants: Around 10% if service isn't already included
- Hotel porters: AED5 to AED6 (approximately RM6) to AED10 to AED12 (approximately RM12)
- Valet attendants: Small cash tips for convenience
As always, checking whether a service charge has already been added to your bill can prevent accidental over-tipping.
When in doubt, you should always observe local behaviour before reaching for your wallet
After all, tipping is considered a form of culture, and it's important for those who are travelling to show respect for the place you're visiting.
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