Tipping practices vary significantly around the globe, often leading to confusion for travelers unfamiliar with local practices. Understanding these practices can enhance your dining experience and demonstrate respect for different cultures. This article will guide you through tipping norms in various countries, helping you navigate this social custom appropriately.

Canada

In Canada, tipping is customary, with a typical range of 15-20% for restaurant staff. Unlike in the U.S., service is generally included in the total bill in some establishments, so it’s wise to check your receipt. Additionally, in bars, it’s common to tip a dollar per drink. 

Brazil, Chile, and Costa Rica

In Brazil, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. While it’s not mandatory to tip beyond this, leaving a small amount of extra cash for exceptional service is appreciated. In Chile, a similar rule applies, but locals often leave an additional tip of about 5-10%. Costa Rica includes a 10% service charge as well, but it’s customary to round up the bill, particularly in tourist areas.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands, tips are included in menu prices, but it’s customary to leave an additional 5-10% if you received exceptional service. However, be mindful of leaving excessive tips, as it might be perceived as unnecessary or even insulting. In casual settings like cafes or bars, rounding up the bill is common.

Czech Republic and France

In the Czech Republic, while tipping is not obligatory, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (around 10%) is appreciated, especially in tourist-heavy areas. In France, service charges are included in the prices, but leaving some small change or rounding up is a common practice to reward good service. Be aware that in fine dining, a larger tip may be expected.

South Africa

In South Africa, tipping is an important part of the service culture. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary, but check if a service charge is included in the bill. 

Iceland

In Iceland, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. In restaurants, service charges are typically included in the bill, so there’s no need to tip beyond that. If you receive exceptional service, leaving a small amount or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required.

Germany and the United Kingdom

In Germany, tipping around 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory. It’s common to simply round up the bill when paying. In the UK, tipping is also discretionary, typically around 10-15% in restaurants. However, in pubs, it’s not necessary to tip for drinks; instead, many patrons might simply buy the bartender a drink in appreciation.

Italy

In Italy, while tipping is not a common practice, it is appreciated. The service charge may be included in your bill, but it’s good to leave some cash if you enjoyed the service—usually a couple of euros or rounding up the bill. Italians often prefer tips in cash to ensure that the server receives the money directly.

Japan

In Japan, tipping is not a part of the culture and can even be considered rude. The Japanese believe that good service is part of the job, and offering a tip might suggest that the server is underpaid. If you attempt to tip, staff may refuse or even chase you to return it. Instead, showing appreciation through polite gestures and words is valued.

General Tips for Tipping

If you’re ever uncertain about whether to tip, a safe approach is to round up the bill. When in doubt, observing the behavior of locals can provide guidance. Always remember that politeness and gratitude are appreciated in every culture, and a smile can often express your appreciation just as well as a tip.