Tip Chasers and Other Tales From Readers' Wallets

Having lived in Eastern Europe for five years, old habits die hard, and my Ukrainian colleagues constantly accuse me of overtipping.

I know of one business relationship that was nearly ruined because of tipping: An American and his Ukrainian client and their wives had finished dining at a posh Kiev spot, and the American tipped 20 percent. The Ukrainian objected, but the American insisted. The Ukrainians, though quite affluent, were deeply offended and felt they could never return to that particular restaurant because they would not tip so lavishly.

Scott Lewis, Kiev, Ukraine

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To avoid over- or underpaying in a foreign currency, invent a simple proportion guide. Example: 100 klaskies equal almost $2, so 250 klaskies equal almost $5 and 350 klaskies almost $7.

Julie Carvalho, Annandale

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My final morning in Costa Rica, I asked a cabdriver to take me to a music store so I could buy some CDs of Latin music. He found a good store, waited for me and took me back to the hotel, so I gave him a $10 bill as tip. As I was walking into the hotel, the doorman tapped me on the shoulder. Doorman and driver got me to understand that the $10 bill had a tiny corner missing -- so not acceptable. I had to come up with a "perfect" replacement. Advice to all who plan to use U.S. currency in foreign countries: Check the bills before you leave.

Donna Sandin, Reston

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While visiting my parents in Florida, I went on a group fishing trip in Lantana. Not knowing how much to tip the captain's mate, I figured $3 for each of the three people in our group was about right. All I had was a $20, so I gave it to the mate and wound up with 11 ones in return. Later that day, I noticed that my wallet smelled strangely like mackerel. Turns out every bill I got back exuded fish oil from the mate's hands. So, if you go on a fishing trip, bring some ones, or you'll be left with a very stinky reminder of your day!

Mitch Katz, Arlington