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tipping in Bali

Tipping in Bali is considered to be a foreign concept. Although it isn’t mandatory to tip for every service you avail, the tips are nevertheless appreciated. On the other hand it is important you understand that workers in the service industry are paid extremely low wages, with the bulk of the earnings going into the owner’s pocket. You might just make someone’s day by tipping him/her for the services offered when you’re visiting Bali. In light of this mentioned below is a detailed tipping guide highlighting what you need to know about how to tip for different services.

tipping in hotels in Bali

in Bali tip $2-$4 at hotels

There is no shortage of modern amenities provided by lavish hotels in Bali. However, despite everything, a majority of people working there are not paid enough. Moreover, hotels do charge 15% in service charges and are inclusive of taxes. You will be surprised to know that bellhops, housekeeping and other staff expect no more than $2 to $4in tips for their services till you depart from the hotel.

tipping customs for restaurants in Bali

At a restaurant Tip 2%-5% in Bali

Waiters and waitresses in both sit-in and fine dining restaurants thrive on tipping. And although the bill includes a 10% service charge, you can choose not to leave a tip. This is not considered offensive, but it will be appreciated by your waiter if you do decide, especially if you think he/she has done an exceptional job. Depending on the level of service provided you can choose to give a 5% to 10% tip of the total bill, which is normal in Bali.

tip etiquette at spas in Bali

in Bali Tip $1-$5 at a Spa

Apart from the scenic beauty that can mesmerise anyone visiting Bali. The city is also laced with relaxing, high-end health spas. You can get a nerve calming, stress busting massage for 45 minutes in under just $10. What else could you possible want? Your masseur will never expect a tip from you, but if you are overly pleased with the amenities and the level of services provided you can tip him/her $5. Workers here too thrive on tips and are not well-paid.

should you tip your hairdresser

Tip your hairdresser 5% - 10% in Bali

Gratuities aren't obligatory when go to a hairdresser in Bali, though he will be expecting that you give him/her something. A tip is always appreciated and it is common for foreign tourists to tip hairdressers, especially for satisfactory services provided. Depending on the range of services attained you can choose to give a 5% to 10% tip of the total bill.

should you tip tour guides in Bali

Tip tour guides Tip $5-$10 in Bali

If you are travelling to Bali for the first time then it is important you hire the services of an experienced tour guide who can show you around the city. Good tour guides can save a lot of time and energy, maximising your experience and pleasure. Although you have to pay the initial fee for his services, your tour guide will not expect a tip, but will appreciate one. If you are happy with his efforts, it is normal to pay $5-$10 in tips.

should you tip your taxi driver

In Bali Round up your taxi fare

Taxi services in Bali are not metered, which means you have to negotiate a fare for wherever you are traveling in the city. Plus, a majority of taxi drivers do not keep spare change with them, which is actually how they make money in tips. For example, if the total fare on the meter shows 18,815 RP, most tourists just end up paying 20,000 RP, rounding off the total. This is considered as the tip for the taxi driver. You can always pay more if you are overly satisfied with your journey or if the taxi driver was very cooperative in finding your destination for you.