Basic role and purpose of the chip
Understanding the basic role and purpose of tipping is important for smooth travel and cross-cultural interactions. Tipping is widely accepted in many countries as a means of expressing gratitude to service providers. It is especially important in restaurants, hotels, and cabs, where it is positioned as part of the income received directly by the service provider.
First, the basic purpose of tipping is to show appreciation for quality service. Service professionals work hard to provide a pleasant and satisfying experience for their customers. A tip given directly by the customer as recognition for their effort and thoughtfulness is very encouraging. In addition, in some countries, tips may be an important supplement to their income due to low minimum wages.
Furthermore, tipping is also an incentive to improve service. If good service is perceived to be rewarded accordingly, it can motivate and lead to further quality improvement. In this way, a positive feedback loop can be created between customers and employees.
However, it should be noted that in some countries, such as Japan, the tipping culture does not exist in the first place or is very limited. In Japan, in the spirit of "Omotenashi" (hospitality), the provision of high quality service itself tends to be considered a form of appreciation. It is important to understand this cultural background and choose an appropriate and polite way to express gratitude and appreciation on the spot.
As can be seen from the above, tipping has more than just monetary value; it also functions as a communication tool between people. While learning about the customs and expectations of each country and region, we should also be grateful and considerate ourselves.
Differences in tipping customs by country
Tipping culture varies around the world, so it is important to understand the customs in your destination. In the U.S., tipping is considered an important source of income in the service industry, and it is common to give a tip of about 151 TP3T to 201 TP3T, especially after a meal in a restaurant or bar. In Japan, on the other hand, tipping is not usually customary, and service charges are often included in the price.
Even in European countries, it varies from country to country. For example, in France, a service charge is included in the price and is not mandatory, but a small amount of change may be left over. Similarly in the UK, a service charge of about 101 TP3T to 151 TP3T may be included. If you still receive good service, an additional tip may be given.
Looking at the Asian region, tipping culture is basically non-existent in countries such as China and Korea. However, it should be noted that in some places, such as high-class hotels and tourist attractions, tipping may be required in exceptional cases. In addition, in regions where tourism is thriving, such as India and Thailand, it is customary to give a small tip.
It is not necessarily required in Australia and New Zealand. However, on special occasions, such as at an upscale restaurant, a tip of about 101 TP3T is given to show appreciation.
Thus, understanding the different tipping cultures in different countries will help you avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and rude behavior. It is a good idea to research the customs of the destination you are visiting before you travel.
Tipping in Restaurants and How to Calculate the Tip
Tipping at restaurants in the United States is an important custom to express gratitude for the service received. Generally, the market rate for tipping in restaurants is between 151 TP3T and 201 TP3T of the total amount. This means that if the service is good, about 20% is often given, but for normal service, about 15% is fine.
To calculate the amount, first check the total cost of the meal and beverages. Then, multiply that amount by 15% or 20% to calculate the tip amount. For example, if the total amount is $50, 15% is $7.5 and 20% is $10. Thus, it is important to choose the appropriate percentage depending on the quality and satisfaction of the service you received.
In addition, gratuities are automatically included in some restaurants. This is especially the case when visiting with a large group or during special events, so be sure to check your bill.
You should also be careful when paying by credit card. When paying by credit card, many stores have a column marked "Tip" on the receipt that you sign. In this column you write the tip amount you wish to pay, and at the bottom of the column you write the final total amount as "Total".
Last but not least, this tipping culture may be a bit confusing to first-time travelers from Japan to the United States. However, this custom is part of showing understanding and respect for the local culture, so please respond with confidence.
Tipping Manners at Hotels and Accommodations
Understanding tipping etiquette in hotels and accommodations is important to enjoy a pleasant stay. First, it is a good idea to tip the bell staff that carries your luggage at check-in and check-out about $1 to $2 per suitcase. This not only shows your appreciation, but also serves as recognition for their prompt and courteous service.
Next, as for tipping the room cleaners, you should leave a tip of $1 to $5 on your pillow or desk when your room is cleaned each day. This amount may vary depending on the condition of the room and the country where you are staying, so please adjust according to local customs.
It is also common to tip concierge services, even if it is a small amount, as a token of appreciation. When you ask for more complex requests, such as special reservations or arrangements, you may want to consider a gratuity (from $5 to $20) according to the nature of the request.
In addition, in the case of a luxury hotel, the doorman should also be attentive. A $1 to $2 thank you is desirable for special assistance such as calling a cab or managing luggage.
As a reminder, avoid tipping with coins rather than bills. It is more common to give in paper money, which is seen as a sign of respect. It is also smart to give a tip at the appropriate time for each service, rather than all at once.
By keeping these basic manners in mind, you will be able to communicate smoothly and comfortably during your hotel stay. Most importantly, be sure to thank the person you are thanking in a way that makes both you and the person you are thanking feel comfortable. This kind of attention to detail will help you create wonderful memories of your trip.
How to tip in cabs and delivery services
It is very important to have a basic knowledge of how to tip in cabs and delivery services. Especially when traveling abroad or in areas where there are many foreigners, you may be confused by cultural differences. Here we will discuss how to tip in common cab and delivery services.
First, for cabs, it is common in most countries to tip approximately 10% to 15% for the fare. In the United States, for example, this percentage can be as high as 20%, so it is a good idea to check the market rate in that area beforehand. It is also a good idea to add a polite "thank you" to show your appreciation to the driver. Also, it is smarter to give the money together in bills rather than paying with coins.
Next, for delivery services, in most cases you can tip in cash or through the in-app payment feature. Some online platforms allow you to set the tip amount in advance when ordering. In this case, it is convenient because you do not have to hand over the cash directly yourself. However, don't forget to smile and say thank you to the delivery person who receives your order in person.
As a precaution, if you only have high denomination bills or no fine money, tell the customer that you do not want change, which will make the transaction smoother. Also, in some countries and regions, tipping culture does not exist in the first place, so there is no problem if you do not feel compelled to give it. By understanding the customs and cultural background of each region, you can avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and problems.
By observing proper tipping etiquette for cab and delivery services, you can make the experience a pleasant one not only for yourself but also for the other party.
Misconceptions and cautions to avoid when tipping
When tipping, it is important to be aware of a few misconceptions and cautions. First, while tipping is not necessarily obligatory, in many countries it is considered important as a way of showing appreciation for service. Therefore, it is important to note that not tipping may be perceived as disrespectful.
Next, regarding the amount of the tip, it should be neither too high nor too low, as this may give the other party an unpleasant impression. As a general guideline, it is recommended to consider about 151 TP3T to 201 TP3T of the total amount in restaurants, if service charge is not included. However, since market prices vary by country and region, it is important to research local customs in advance.
In addition, in some countries, tipping culture may only take root in certain professions or situations. For example, in Japan there is basically no tipping culture, and in most cases it is included in the price as a service charge. Therefore, it may be impolite to try to tip in Japan.
In addition, please be careful when paying with anything other than cash. When paying with a credit card, there may be a tip box on the receipt, which can be filled in. On the other hand, some stores and services only accept cash, so it is a good idea to have coins or small bills ready.
Finally, we also want to remember to express our gratitude directly. Rather than simply handing over the money, a "thank you" with words of gratitude will convey a warmer feeling. It is this kind of attention to detail that leads to true hospitality.
With these points in mind, you will be able to adjust to the tipping culture in a smooth and appropriate manner, even in unfamiliar places.
English 
Japanese 
Korean 
Chinese