Curious, what does this have to do with 3rd World Traveling? I'll respond anyways.
I disagree. Tipping should be based upon local customs and courtesies.
In the US, to be safe just tip everyone, everyone else does. (Waiters, Bartenders, Valet, Bellhop, Housekeeping, coat check) 10-15%!
(MISSING)
But in Japan, people don't tip. I've even heard that some of the servers will get a percentage of the business they did that night from the restaurant. Not so sure about that. You could offend by tipping.
Some coutries it's illegal to tip. I just found this, but you should always check local customs.
Double-check the tipping protocol at South Pacific and Asian hotels. Many prohibit tipping to prevent staff from hustling guests for money.
COUNTRY GRATUITY PROTOCOL
Australia and New Zealand Round up taxi fares and restaurant bills to nearest dollar.
Austria Service charges generally included in bill.
Britain and Ireland Service charges usually included in restaurant bills; otherwise, standard U.S. tipping rules apply.
China and North Korea Tipping is illegal.
Czech Republic Round up the bill to nearest koruna.
France and Germany Service charges generally applied to bills; customary to add 5 percent extra.
Hong Kong Tipping is common--about 10 percent in most situations--even when a service charge has already been applied.
Hungary 10 percent tip is customary.
Indonesia Service charges are usually included in bill.
Israel Restaurants and hotels typically add 10 percent service charge to bills; otherwise, tipping not expected.
Italy Tipping is customary, about 10 percent, even when a service charge is already included.
Japan Tips are usually included in hotel and restaurant bills; otherwise, tipping is not expected.
Malaysia Tipping is expected for porters and room service.
Mexico Tipping is customary, about 10 to 15 percent. Service charges rarely applied.
Philippines 10 percent tip is common for most services.
South Korea Tipping is not expected.
Spain Offer a 10 to 15 percent tip even when service charges have been added.
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