How to Tip Properly in North America

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TipProperlyNorthAmerica
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How to Tip Properly in North America

Introduction

One of the most common questions asked by vacationers is "How much should I tip?" The answer is complex when you consider various protocols around the world, but general rules do apply here at home. Commit these tipping tips to memory to avoid getting fleeced or forgotten.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Don't tip if it's not deserved. You're essentially buying good service, and if it's not earned it shouldn't be rewarded. You're only promoting poor service habits and wasting money.
2

Step Two

Tip above the norm for two reasons: if service is exceptional, and if you plan on returning to the hotel or restaurant in the future. Big tippers are rarely forgotten by the staff.
3

Step Three

Tip discreetly. There's an art to passing money: Fold the bill three times, cup it in your palm with your thumb, and hand it to the staff member with a casual handshake while saying, "Thank you."
4

Step Four

Tip big when first checking into a hotel to assure better service throughout your stay.

SERVICE TIPPING CONVENTION
Airport Porters $1 per bag for normal sizes, $2 per bag for large or heavy items.
Chauffeurs 10 to 15 percent of fare.
Coat Check $2 to $5 upon retrieval.
Concierges or Guest Services Representatives $10 to $20 depending on the complexity of the service--theater tickets, restaurant reservations, tour bookings, last-minute arrangements.
Hotel Door Persons $2 for summoning a taxi by phone, $1 for hailing from street, $2 to $5 if they opened the door for you each time you entered and left the hotel.
Hotel Porters $1 to $2 per bag, $5 minimum.
Housekeeping Staff $2 to $5 per night, paid daily or as a sum at checkout.
Parking Valets $2 to $5 for parking and delivery.
Restaurant and Bar Service 15 to 20 percent of the total tab.
Room Service $5 minimum.
Taxicabs and Hotel Courtesy Cars 10 percent of fare, $2 to $5 minimum depending on service. Add $1 per bag placed in trunk.

Overall Tips & Warnings

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