9 Countries Where Tipping Is Frowned Upon, and It’s Refreshing
Since when did leaving a 20% tip for your local fast-food takeout become the norm? This growing expectation is causing tip fatigue among many Americans.
If you’re tired of American tipping practices, you just might want to visit (and perhaps move to) one of these countries where tipping isn’t common practice. In some cases, it’s downright rude.
Before We Start
In the US, it is customary to tip servers between 15 to 20% of the total bill amount. A higher percentage is usually given for exceptional service, though tipping 20% or more has become the norm in recent years.
1: Japan
Put your tipping money away when visiting Japan; the Japanese view tipping as something unneeded by its customers. You can expect waiters and waitresses to refuse any extra cash offered, as the total payment at the end of a meal establishes that the service went well.
2: South Korea
The act of tipping is not customary in countries like South Korea. In fact, the action may be perceived by many service workers as disrespectful or impolite. Avoid an awkward situation by keeping your change in your wallet.
3: Brazil
In Brazil, tipping is not mandatory. However, some receipts may include a section labeled “servicio” with a 10-15% tip already added to your bill. Don’t worry; this service fee is usually optional. If the service exceeds your expectations and isn’t on your bill, it’s perfectly acceptable to offer a small tip of appreciation.
4: China
Though tipping is sometimes acceptable in China, it’s rarely required. Like in the US, the act displays customers’ feelings toward the service they received. It’s important to remember that tipping in China may be considered disrespectful. So, it’s often best to err on the side of caution and avoid tipping unless you’re in a touristy area.
5: Denmark
Leaving a tip is entirely optional in Denmark. Employees in the service industry are paid in full, and, as a result, they do not rely on tips to make up for low wages. Compensation in Denmark is negotiated by employee unions and associations, with the average minimum wage being $18 an hour.
6: Belgium
It’s rare for service workers to expect a tip in Belgium. With that said, larger upscale restaurants may include a service fee in your total payment. Nonetheless, travelers shouldn’t feel obligated to leave a tip.
7: Australia
Depending on who you ask in Australia, the topic of tipping may be a cause for debate. A general rule of thumb is that most services do not require tipping. Nevertheless, if you’re happy with the service you receive, tipping about 10% is appreciated by most service employees.
8: New Zealand
New Zealand’s tipping policy involves using discretion when deciding whether to leave change behind. If customers feel they received exemplary service, they’re welcome to tip whatever percentage they see fit. But leaving a gratuity is up to personal preference and isn’t required.
9: Estonia
Estonia is known for its unique history and beautiful architecture. However, like most countries in Europe, it doesn’t have a big tipping culture. That said, if you find yourself in Estonia and feel compelled to leave a tip, it’s unlikely the locals will view it as rude unlike in certain parts of Asia.
Burp Me
In some cultures, people show gratitude and respect by burping rather than tipping. Contrary to the United States, where burping is seen as discourteous, countries like Egypt believe it to be one of the highest forms of praise after eating food.
A History Lesson
It’s believed that tipping practices in the US originated in the 1800s, starting with establishments like taverns. Ironically, Wealthy Americans likely discovered the practice while visiting Europe.
Tipping Etiquette
Are you traveling for the first time and worried about how to tip? It’s best to ask a local for recommendations on tipping practices. Tipping in local currency is ideal, for small US bills sometimes have a low exchange rate.
Fee To Sit
Yup, you read that right: It’s customary in some countries to charge a sit-down fee if you eat at a restaurant, which is essentially a tip. Costa Rica, Brazil, and Chile are countries where sit-down fees are common.
Snag Free ATM Withdrawals Abroad
What’s as good as tipping little or nothing without guilt? Never paying an ATM fee abroad. Discover the trick to doing just that from a traveler who’s saved hundreds of dollars in ATM fees.
How To Never Pay an ATM Fee Abroad
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Whether you’re reading this as an expatriate or you’re thinking about moving abroad, millions of Americans have been in your shoes. A study analyzed the most common countries Americans want to relocate to. Does the country you dream about living in make the cut?
