“Tips on tipping for travelers: when and how much depends on where you are”

by Drew Limsky via “Yahoo! News“

“Tipping has become so ubiquitous (some would say excessive) in the U.S. that it’s not uncommon to see a tip jar next to the register at the corner deli. (Call it the Starbucks effect, but since Starbucks is considered a luxury product, the coin cup seems more apt there.) All that tipping, and its representations in exported American movies and TV shows, has impacted countries around the world. Here’s some guidance on tipping while traveling.

Europe

Americans are beloved in Europe because we tip. We seem almost constitutionally incapable of not tipping. I’d like to agree with most commentators and say that it is not expected, but American habits have changed that calculus. So go ahead and leave a euro at the restaurant or hand a euro to the bellman. For pricier dinner venues, check the menu—it’s supposed to note if the gratuity is included.   . . . .”