By Bridget Castner
Did you know that tipping can be perceived as impolite in some cultures? When traveling to other countries, it's important to always understand the area's tipping culture first. Keep reading for more information on tipping cultures in countries around the world.
Ireland
Currency: Euros
Like most countries in Europe, a 10-15% tip in Ireland is appreciated by restaurant employees. If you're at a particularly upscale establishment, or your server made you feel like you were the only patrons in the room, you might want to consider leaving a bigger tip!
England
Currency: Euros
While tipping in England isn't necessarily expected, it's always appreciated and seen as a courteous gesture. Some restaurants will include a service fee in your bill, but if it's not included, you should leave a tip of at least 10-15%, or round off the total amount of your bill.
France
Currency: Euros
In France, most restaurants will add a 15% gratuity fee to your bill. While tipping in France is not required, if you receive exceptional service, you can always add an extra 5% tip to show your appreciation. It's important to note that many countries like France do not let you add tip via credit card, so it's always good to make sure you have some cash.
Italy
Currency: Euros
Tipping in Italy is optional but considered a courteous gesture to reward good service. Like other countries around the world, some restaurants in Italy will automatically apply a service charge to your bill. If this isn't on there, but you were satisfied with the service, feel free to leave a cash tip for your server as a sign of appreciation.
Spain
Currency: Euros
In Spain, if you don't see "Servicio incluido" (service included) on your restaurant bill, then you should leave a 10-15% cash tip. If you're in a cafe or bar just ordering a drink or two, then you don't need to tip – but if you order food, you should consider rounding up to the nearest euro of your total.
Portugal
Currency: Euros
If you're dining in restaurants during your trip to Portugal, you’ll find that tipping isn't required and food establishments do not add a service charge to your bill. However, it's still recommended to leave a 10% tip in Portugal, especially if you're eating at a high-end restaurant. Some people may opt to just round up to the nearest euro for convenience.
Greece
Currency: Euros
Like many countries in Europe, tipping in Greece is not mandatory. However, if you aren't dining at an upscale restaurant where a service fee is usually added to the bill, it's become a trend for tourists to leave a small cash tip of at least 10-15%. If you've received exceptional service, go ahead and bump that tip up to 20%. Your server will appreciate it, and it will show them that you valued their hard work.
Colombia
Currency: Peso
In Colombia, a 10% "voluntary tip" is usually added to your final bill, and the server will always ask you if you want to accept. While there isn't an established customary tipping system, leaving a tip is always welcomed, especially in family-owned businesses. If you're grabbing coffee or sitting down with some delicious Colombian pastries at a cafe, a tip jar is left on the counter and it's customary to add some change.
Thailand
Currency: Thai Baht
Tipping in Thailand is always appreciated but not mandatory, and is more intended for tourists. However, it is important to consider that the average monthly wage in Thailand is less than $300 USD. Therefore, leaving your spare change at a café or a few dollars at a restaurant can significantly contribute to the income of your local server.
Morocco
Currency: Moroccan Dirham
Tips in Morocco are custom and usually left for servers and employees who go above and beyond. When you eat at a local restaurant or enjoy some treats from a food cart, it's common to round up to the nearest dirham. In the case that you find yourself at a more sophisticated and upscale restaurant, a tip of 10% or more is considered appropriate, taking into account the extent of service you've received.
Puerto Rico
Currency: US Dollar
Tipping in Puerto Rico is similar to that in the States: it's not required, but you're expected to tip 20% of the total on your bills at restaurants/bars/cafes. As always, if you've received over the top service and truly enjoyed your dining experience, add a little more to the tip to show your appreciation!
