tipping in United States
Generally, tips are given to a person who performs an exceptional service. However, there’s a long tradition of tipping in the US, where greasing palms is both a social disease and an integral part of life in the US. It has nothing to do with the quality of service whatsoever and has become so ingrained that it’s almost impossible to get any job done without tipping a good amount to those in the service industry.
It’s like Americans are prolific and prodigious tippers, which isn’t normally optional. For instance: in other countries like France or Scotland, it isn’t such a big deal not to leave a tip, but in the US non-tippers are considered cheap (the ultimate insult to an American) and often treated with disrespect. So, unless you don’t want to be treated the same way, consider following this useful tipping guide:
tipping etiquette for hotels in United States
In the USA Tip at hotels
In the US, tipping is not only a way to show gratitude for good service, but it also supplements fairly low wages of those in the service industry, particularly individuals working in hotels. Therefore, feel free to tip generously during your stay in a hotel. Generally, you must give a $1-$2 tip to the hotel doorman who hailed a cab for you or brought your car from the valet.
tipping in restaurants in United States
In restaurants Tip 10% - 25% in The United States
Waiters/waitresses in the US are typically paid much less than the minimum federal wage, often $2.14/hour and sometimes even lesser! Consequently, they expect to get tips from customers in order to make up for the difference. So, when visiting a restaurant, always make sure to tip 15% of the bill to the waiter. Depending on the quality of service, you can leave a 20% tip behind as well.
If a service charge has been included in the bill usually about 15%, then it isn’t obligatory to leave behind a tip. And it is also customary to leave a tip of 10% or even less if you feel that the waiter did not give his due diligence while serving you. For this reason, if the service is bad enough to deserve only 10% or less, it is a good idea to let the manager know.
tip etiquette at spas in United States
At spas TIP 10% - 20% in the USA
It is customary to tip between 10% and 20% at a spa for a massage or any other treatment. However a service charge may be included on your bill. You can leave your tip at reception and most spas will give you an envelope.
should you tip your tour guide?
tip tour guides 15%-20% in the USA
When it comes to the service industry in the US, even tour guides depend on tips to pay their bills. These tips are usually based on the type of tour selected and size of group. However, the norm is usually 15% to 20% or even more depending on the quality of service provided.
should you tip your taxi driver?
tip taxi drivers 10%-15% in the USA
In the USA is customary to tip your taxi driver between 10% and 15%.
If you are staying at a hotel you can order your taxi from the directory (found in most hotel rooms) or from your concierge.