Planning to travel abroad soon? Good travel experience is the result of good planning. An international travel calls for extra steps and research to ensure a stress-free experience. That applies to any trip you take, but it’s actually true when you’re heading to a foreign country. In addition, before planning any trip you require to take care of things like lodging, visiting restaurants, hiring a cab, and so on. Meanwhile in between this discussion, let us not forget one very important point while we are traveling, which is whether to tip or to not. Tipping can be confusing as the protocol varies by country. In some parts of the world, tipping can be considered rude, whereas in other areas it is rude to avoid.
Places where tipping isn't necessary:-
Japan -
If you are in Japan, just be careful that you do not tip at all, not only in restaurants but anywhere else too, it could be interpreted as an insult. It has been ages that Japan quite simply doesn't have a tipping culture, so trying to leave a gratuity could result in a fair amount of confusion
China -
Tipping is unexpected and unnecessary in China, simply speaking you don’t need to leave a tip. And just like Japan, it can be considered rude in some places. China has no tipping culture traditionally, though in some of the big, international destinations it is becoming more common, largely thanks to overseas visitors
Brazil -
Tipping in Brazil is not common practice, partly because culturally it's not been done, but also because a 10 percent service charge is usually automatically added to your bill. Having said that, tips here are genuinely appreciated, even if they're not relied upon. However, tourists often tip small amounts for taxi and porter services, and restaurants will sometimes add a service fee to the bill, but it is not mandatory to pay.
Finland -
In Finland, tips are not expected, not even in restaurants. If you feel you have received excellent service or someone really has gone out of their way to help you in a taxi or in a restaurant, feel free to tip. If your tip is declined, which has happens often, don’t push it.
South Korea -
If you ever visit South Korea, tipping is generally not expected, though it may still be appreciated in certain westernized restaurants. However, in some instances giving tip is offensive out here and it can even be considered as an act of pity rather than generosity, and may be refused.
Belgium -
Taxi driver and hairdresser bills include the service charge. Service staff in Belgium are well-paid, in comparison with those in other European countries, and do not rely on tips to make up their income. Tipping is not expected in restaurants
Argentina -
Tipping is not at all common in Argentina, but at times waiters often expect a small tip. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped unless they perform some kind of extra service such as carrying your bags or luggage to your hotel entrance.
Australia -
Tipping in Australia is basically non-existent. There are usually no mandatory gratuities or built in restaurant service charges of any kind. Only in some cases, you may find that service on the weekend or a public holiday attracts an additional fee.
If we look at urbanization, tourism in different countries is increasing, which eventually forces cultural norms, wage law pattern to change. And with this change, tipping customs across the globe can change. The practice of tipping is far more a cultural trait than some financial ploy requiring regulation. So currently nowhere is it illegal or banned. So, if you find yourself unsure whether or not to tip, simply ask your server if tipping is customary. And if it doesn’t feel appropriate to ask, simply round up the bill.
Also read: Top 13 popular destinations which offer visa on arrival
