Tipping Guide
Be generous. It’s good karma.
Try to keep a ready supply of $1’s and $5’s for tipping. I usually carry them in a separate little pouch.
It can’t hurt to “tip big” upon arrival at your hotel, especially if you plan to return, or you think you might need extra services from the doorman, bellhop, concierge, etc.
Waiters
20% of the pre-tax total. (Sorry, but I think 15% is cheap.)
I recently learned that some restaurant owners are less-than-ethical about turning over credit-card tips, so I now try to leave the tip in cash. On the tip line of the credit card slip, just write “on table.”
Maitre d’
Usually nothing; but $5 - $10 for getting you a special table; even more if the restaurant is full and you have no reservations (I actually did this once, and it worked!) or if it’s a high-end restaurant.
Room Service
Most room service bills include a 15% - !8% service charge; I usually tip the waiter another $2 anyway.
Taxi Drivers
15% - 20% of the fare, excluding tolls.
Bellhops
$1 - $2 per bag; also tip if they store your bags before check-in or after check-out.
Maids
$2 or more per day.
Doormen
$1-$2 if they hail a cab for you. Nothing for just opening the door.
Concierge
$3-$10 depending on the complexity of the service. The lower figure for arranging a tour or making dinner reservations; the higher figure for hard-to-get tickets or reservations or more involved services.
Bar
$1 - $2 per drink.
Tour guides
If not included in the tour price, tip 15% - 20% per person.
