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Why Tipping Abroad can be Insulting

by Neil Woodburn (RSS feed) on May 22nd 2007 at 1:57PM

Tipping in foreign countries is something I always struggle with. Most guide books will tell you what the tipping custom is for particular countries and yet, tipping is so inbred in Americans like myself that it is tough not to do so in those countries where it is not customary.

I've come across many articles about tipping in foreign countries, but one which came out last Sunday in The Los Angeles Times dug into the topic a bit deeper. It tackled the negative aspects of tipping where tipping is not expected.

It's easy to assume that any member of a wait staff would be happy with a little extra money tossed in their direction but this is simply not the case. The article by Rosemary McClure explains how insulting and degrading a tip might be despite the best intentions of a visiting foreigner wanting to help out some underpaid waitress. This is particularly true in Asia where, according to McClure, a tip implies "that the person you're tipping isn't hospitable enough to provide service without a bribe."

Ouch! Now I get it.

Spare a few moments and check out this article. It will not only help you save money, but face as well. And what's better than that?

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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Ryan May 22nd 2007 2:58PM

True, it is hard work and the system in place, it is second nature to those in the US & Canada, but in Europe and South America, tipping can be quite an insult.

http://TEFLouge.com

tikiloungelizard May 22nd 2007 7:28PM

It's also not expected in Australia or New Zealand. Also nice that in NZ, the price listed on any product is the full price (taxes are included).

stan May 23rd 2007 10:41AM

The real secrets to getting celebrity style service everywhere can be found in this great book called, Tipping for Success! The secrets reveal it’s not how much, but rather what to say. Never wait in line again! The best secrets for upgrades at hotels, restaurants, airplanes, etc. you name it! www.tippingforsuccess.com

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