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Tip Chasers and Other Tales From Readers' Wallets
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It is not customary to tip in China. However, in recognition of our wonderful experience, we left a tip of about $5. The waiter chased us down the street trying to give us our tip back.
Morgan Hurley, Rockville
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A few years ago, my daughters and I traveled to New York City for a weekend of fun and shopping. As is my normal routine, as we were preparing to leave the room to check out, I left singles and change behind on a desk in the room. Later, while going through security at the airport, my daughter had to empty her pockets, and she had all this change and singles. When I asked her how did she get all that money, she said, "Mommy, you left all your money behind at the hotel, so I picked it up for you."
I had to laugh, but then I took the time to explain that tipping is something you should always do. I am happy to say that as my daughters have grown up, they always tip appropriately.
Kathy Claar, Fredericksburg
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My wife and I have been traveling to India every year for the past three years. We have struggled with the question: What is a fair tip? We have varied our tipping every time. Our test for fair is to see a smile in return and yet not be labeled as outrageous by our local hosts.
We have come to the conclusion that a 5 to 10 percent tip is a reasonable compromise. In situations such as porters at the airports, 20 rupees per bag will pass the smile test. A 50-rupee bill at an upscale hotel will pass the smile test. Although 20 rupees translates to 45 cents and 50 rupees translates to $1.20, one has to view the tip in terms of the local economy.
Harish Kathpal, Vienna
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On a family trip to Hawaii, I let my 12-year-old daughter go by herself, for the first time, to the poolside cafe and order lunch. She purchased a hamburger for $10 and proudly reported that she wasn't sure how much tip to leave, so she left $8. Since then our family game at restaurants is to practice calculating 15 percent.
