Tipping

Over the weekend I discussed the topic of tipping with a group of people at my hostel. I understand that our tipping in the states has gotten a little out of control, and that it is not like that anywhere else in the world. But it comes down to one point... that is how we do it in the states... it is our culture to tip someone who provides a service for us. Servers, bartenders, cab drivers, tour guides, hair stylist... we tip them all... and we tip them good! Deal with it!

When you travel to a different country you abide by their cultural standards, even if you don't agree with them. It is only polite. When I travel, no matter what their culture states or what their laws are, I follow them... it is your duty as a traveler.

So I say this to you foreigners traveling to the states, and even Americans who have never worked in the service industry. Leave a good tip. Give the server the benefit of the doubt. They work hard. Obviously if the service is terrible there is no obligation. But think about it this way... there is a standard tip... about 18% (at least in California). If you give the server a 18% tip it will make them very happy... if you give them just $1 more... it will make their day! But then if you give them less than the standard it will ruin their day, make them feel like they did something wrong, like they gave you bad service, like they are bad at their job, like they are bad at life. So when you leave a tip think about this... "What is one more dollar to me when it can significantly improve someone else's day?" Spread some joy people! Make the world a little bit happier for someone else! And you in turn will feel better :)