One of the best parts of going on vacation is not having any responsibilities. You stay in a hotel that is cleaned for you. You go to restaurants and get waited on. You take cabs or even limos so you don't have to drive. All you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy yourself, but that's not all! Those who are there to cater to your needs during your vacation deserve some appreciation. Many jobs are tip based and tips make up the majority of an employee's income. Although tipping isn't mandatory in the United States, service professionals generally work hard to make sure you have an enjoyable experience.
When traveling, you may encounter many situations where you should leave a tip, but you might not be sure what an acceptable tipping rate is. Here are some guidelines to travel tipping.
As a general rule, for a bill, tipping should be 15-20% of the total bill. If service is not up to par, you might want to leave only 10%. If service was outstanding, you could leave 25%.
Bellhop: If an employee helps you with your luggage while boarding a cruise ship or checking-in to your hotel, give the $1 to $2 per bag.
Car valet: If someone parks your car, you can tip $1 to $3 when you pick up your car, but you can also leave a tip when dropping it off.
Room Service: Tipping for room service is similar to tipping at a restaurant. Leaving 10 percent of the bill is acceptable, 15 percent to 20 percent for a large or difficult order.
Housekeeping/ maid service: Leave $2 to $3 per night or $5 if you have more than three people in a room/suite or you're staying in a high-end hotel. Leave the money in an envelope with "Thank You" on it, so they know the money is for them and leave it in an obvious place like on a pillow or desk. Leave a tip when you leave the room rather than at the end of your total stay because your room might be cleaned by different staff members each day depending on their schedules.
Concierge: Generally, you don't have to tip them. However, If you ask for something special or have a difficult request, at least leave between $2 to $5.
Restaurants: Read your bill to see if a tip is already included. If there is no gratuity added, leave a tip that is 15%-20% of the bill.
Bartenders: If you grab a drink at a bar or casino, leave $1 to $2 per drink.
Taxi service: Leave 10%-20% of the fare depending on the service.
Doorman: You typically don't have to tip them, but if they hail you a cab or help you with your bags, give them a dollar.
Coat check: Give the attendant $1 per coat when picking up your belongings.
Spa Service: For a massage, facial, or other treatment, leave 15% to 20% of the bill if gratuity is not included.
Tour Guides: After your tour, give them 15% to 20% depending on their knowledge and friendliness.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
