Here’s a Nifty Guide to How much to Tip in Countries that We S’poreans Go Often

Last Updated on 2016-11-15 , 6:27 pm

We Singaporeans love to travel. Especially when there are so many deals on flight from the different airlines as of now (here, here and here…and many more).

In Singapore, we don’t have the culture of leaving tips. Reason being that we are stingy already have an unavoidable 10% service charge added to our bill. But some of us do leave tip (usually it’s up to us to decide how much) for an excellent service received from the service crew.

However, it’s not the case where we must leave a tip for the service crew while we are overseas. So here’s a guide for you folks who are planning to travel overseas!

Malaysia
Similar to Singapore, tipping is not compulsory and they have already included service charge to the total bill.

China and Taiwan
Tipping in these countries is usually not expected except in luxury hotels or restaurants. The exceptions are Hong Kong and Macau, which are mostly influenced by the west hence they do have the culture of tipping!

Japan
In this country, it is considered rude if you were to leave a tip for the service crew. The service crew in hotels has been trained to politely reject any tips for them from any customers. So take note! Do not leave tips for the service crew while you’re in Japan!

Thailand
Tipping is not part of their cultural in Thailand so you are not obligated to tip anyone in the country but small gratuities for excellent service is welcome!

Canada
The tipping rate in Canada is between 10 to 20 percent. The same rate applies not only to service staff in restaurant and hotels, but to cab drivers  as well. You’re not obliged to tip business owners or buffet staffs.

United States
The standard tipping rate is about 15 to 20 percent and at least 20 percent in bigger cities like New York. When you encounter poor service in a restaurant here, speak with the management instead of leaving a small tip as this would come across as being rude.

United Kingdom
Tipping here is not required but is appreciated! Service charges are included in the bill most of the time and you may be expected to tip more in restaurants that are located in popular tourist destinations. You need not leave tips for the bartender in a pub but you could tell them to have “one for themselves” after you’ve received a satisfactory service from them. Cool, isn’t it?

Ultimately this is a brief guide on tipping cultural in varies countries that we Singaporeans like to visit. Do check with the hotel staff to confirm on the expected tipping rates in the countries before you start giving them the wrong amount which may make you seem rude to them!

Featured image: Shutterstock / Carolyn Franks