Tipping Culture
Tipping culture refers to the practice of giving extra money to service workers, such as waitstaff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, as a reward for good service. The amount typically varies by country and context, with some places expecting tips as a standard part of service compensation, while others may not have this expectation at all. In the United States, for example, tipping around 15-20% of the bill is common in restaurants.
In contrast, many European countries include service charges in the bill, making tipping less necessary. Additionally, in some cultures, tipping can be seen as an insult, suggesting that the worker's salary is inadequate. Understanding local customs is essential for travelers to navigate tipping practices appropriately.