Thursday, September 11, 2014

tipping in italy

Before I go to a foreign country, I like to do some research on its tipping culture - because unlike the United States where tipping is practically mandatory even for mediocre service, most other countries don't really tip.  For example, in Taiwan, good service is simply part of the job and a tip would only be given for extraordinary service (but is never expected) or for a very specific type of service (e.g., traditional matchmaking but only when it leads to a wedding).  In some countries, tipping is actually offensive - weird huh?

The most helpful information on tipping I found were in the Frommer's Guide and this youtube video from soniastravels.  I generally followed the following guidelines:

  • Restaurants - Many restaurants (in touristy areas) will include a service charge (ranging from a few euros to 10-15% of bill) so look at your bill carefully.  If it's not included, you don't have to leave anything but a few euros per diner would be nice.  If the service is really great, then 10-15% would be a good tip.
  • Hotel Maid Service - I don't think it's expected but 0.50 - 1 euro per day is nice.
  • Hotel Porter/Bellhop - 1 euro per bag.
  • Hotel Concierge - only for great service - perhaps 5-10 euros.
  • Bars/Cafes - Many bars (alchohol and coffee) will charge a coperto fee (a few euros extra) for sitting down so tipping isn't expected since it's deemed included.  When we grabbed a quick drink at the bar without sitting, we didn't usually leave anything unless we stayed for a while - again just a few euros.
  • Taxi - no tip; just round up. 
  • Tours/Tour Guides/Private Drivers - there was no clear information on this.  We tipped when we felt the service was really exceptional... Truth be told, we probably overtipped in view of the recipients' reactions (10-20%).
 I did notice that in more touristy areas, the servers did seem to "expect" the Americans to tip but not anyone else.  For example, at a restaurant, they would pause for a tip at a table of Americans, but not the Australians at the next table.  In addition, as we got to the more beachy-resorty areas like Capri and Positano, there did seem to be more tipping generally.  

But overall, the guidelines above served me well throughout my trip in Italy and I didn't really have any awkward moments expect one in Positano where the lady who showed us to our room seemed to want a tip just for showing us the room...  is that normal?  

Anyways, I hope this is helpful for someone.  If you have other information about tipping in Italy, please share below!


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