There's a certain etiquette where tipping is concerned. Have you ever left a restaurant wondering if you've tipped the server enough? Perhaps you don't know how much to tip a sky cap at the airport. There are definite amounts on how much to tip, and hopefully these guidelines will demystify the art of gracious gratuity.
In restaurants, simply multiply the tax on the bill times two. That should equal about 15% of your dining experience for your server. Remember, the busboys and the hostess also need tips, and that is usually taken out of the tips the server receives. For the sommelier or wine steward, it is customary to tip them 15% of the cost of the bottle of wine. Bartenders are a different story - 50 cents per soda is acceptable, while $1.00 is the norm for each alcoholic drink. Washroom attendants at nightclubs should be given 50 cents to $1.00. For valet parking at a restaurant or hotel, give them an extra $2.00.
As far as Taxis go, it varies depending on the locality. Assume 15% is enough, and an extra $2.00 for help with luggage.
When you order a pizza or room service at a hotel, tip the food delivery person 10% of the bill, or at least $1.00 for bills up to $10.00. You may also tip 15%-20% for s demanding delivery.
How about the Barber? 15%-20% is correct at a minimum of $1.00.
"Hairdressers should be tipped 15%-20%", educates Nicole McCann, owner of the fun-loving and reasonably priced Cole's Diva Den in Cameron Park's Burke Junction. “It is now acceptable to tip the salon owner, as long as he or she says otherwise.” Shampoos are to be tipped at $2.00.
Your manicurist works hard to keep your nails looking fresh and clean, so tip her 15%.
Spa services have gratuities ranging from 15%-20%, for services such as massages, body wraps and facials.
Now how about coffee places such as Starbucks or the Bean Barn in Placerville that have tins for tips? It's perfectly acceptable to forgo the tipping. According to Placerville Mayor Pierre Rivas, “Tipping is out of control. When I was growing up, we never had to tip coffee counters. I am a bit miffed when I see "tip jars" inappropriately placed. When someone is serving me something I could get myself but for the counter and the line between us, I don't consider it a convenience worth paying for”
Handymen and gas attendants don't require gratuity.
When you travel, tipping is always involved. Sky caps need to be given $1.00 per bag if you check in curbside or $2 per bag if the sky cap takes your bags into check-in.
When you get to your hotel, tip your doorman $1 per bag for help with luggage; $1 per person for hailing a taxi. Hotel or B&B bell hops require $1 per bag for brining your luggage to your room, or just a $2 minimum if you have only one bag. Hotel housekeepers should be tipped as well - from $2-$5 per night. When you utilize the services of the concierge to arrange for activities, tickets or reservations, tip him or her at least $5. No tip, however, is required when you ask for directions to local hot spots.
Cruise lines vary. Simply ask your cruise lines about customary gratuities.
According to CNN/Money, most people, if asked, will tell you a tip is meant to reward good service, However, many of those same people will tip the same amount no matter what kind of service they get.
According to Cornell Professor Michael Lynn, “The major reason people tip is to avoid social disapproval.”
So much for rewarding excellent service. Lynn discovered that how customers rate service has a very small effect on the amount they choose to tip at restaurants. He also says people tend to tip more during sunny weather.
If you wish to skip the tip or cure bad service, speak to the manager of the designated location.
However it goes, tipping is usually not optional. It is expected and part of your bill. Use your best judgment and these guidelines in order to add gratuity to those who work hard to deserve it.
