Guidelines To Tipping Around the World

Tipping practices vary around the globe — don’t wait till you’ve ordered your roasted harissa salad to figure out whether or not to leave a tip in Dubai. Get prepared with these guidelines for gratuities around the world.

Tipping in Europe

In Europe, 10-15% is becoming a standard and welcome tip for restaurant meals. Tipping at bars or for taxis isn’t expected, but if you round up to the nearest euro it’s appreciated. A couple of euros to the porter handling your bags will also go a long way.

Tipping in North America

The United States and Canada have similar tipping practices, with 15-20% of the bill (before tax) being standard for a restaurant meal. A 10-15% tip is expected for a taxi ride, as is a few dollars to the porter who helps with your bags.

In Mexico, if you’re dining in a place where there are lots of international tourists, it’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip.

Tipping in Asia

Tipping isn’t expected in Japan. In China and Southeast Asia there’s long been a no-tipping culture, but that’s changing as more travelers touch down on these countries.

Tips of about 10-15% are appreciated on tours, at your hotel and at sit-down restaurants frequented by international visitors.

In Singapore, a 10% service charge is included at restaurants, but feel free to leave an extra 5%.

Tipping in the Middle East

In the United Arab Emirates a 10% service charge is typically added to your restaurant bill, but your server will appreciate a 10-15% tip on top of that. Rounding up the taxi fare to the nearest AED is common.

Tipping in Africa

Porters, guides and drivers largely rely on tips to round out their salary. A $10 USD gratuity for drivers and guides is about right — pay in the local currency if you can. At restaurants and bars, give a 10-15% tip.

Tipping in South America

Around 10%-15% of the bill at a sit-down restaurant is standard across the continent. In Brazil, Chile and Costa Rica you might see a 10% sit-down charge added to the bill. Feel free to add an extra 5% cash tip on top of that. Your server will appreciate it!

If you’re traveling and you’re not sure whether to tip, just ask your server or concierge what’s customary. For more great travel tips, download the Diners Club mobile app — it has an ATM locator, a tipping and currency converter and more.

Ailsa Ross is a freelance journalist and editor living in the Canadian Rockies. A contributor to Outside online, National Geographic Traveler, and Time Out, she’s writing a book about the bold women through history who’ve gone on big adventures. Chart their stories on Instagram and Facebook @womenadventurers, or get in touch with Ailsa at ailsaross.com

The information provided herein is sponsored by Discover^® Global Network. It is intended for informational purposes, and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice.