Restaurants, Cafes, Hostels, and Taxi cabs tipping.?

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parisfornia

Tipping is customary in France and Italy. No laws says that you HAVE to tip anybody, but it's the socially acceptable thing to do. As a backpacker, you shouldn't have to try to tip too much. Just a gesture is enough. People will understand that you're a youth with little money; But you have to be nice to people and whenever possible, leave a token of appreciation. A little change in cheap restaurants and cafes will be fine. At expensive restaurants, you're expected to leave a little more than just loose change eventhough tips are included (it's just the custom). I don't think you need to worry about tipping at a youth hostel. As far as cabs, a little something is nice if you carry extra luggage. Some cabs will make you pay $1 or $1.50 per extra piece of luggage, but again, as a youth, if you're nice and courteous to the driver (always say hello and try to say a little something in French before switching to English if he/she speaks it), you can get away with paying very little extra. Feel free to read my page on tipping customs on my Paris travel advice Web site http://www.myparistrips.com

cypruspolice

Most Europeans don't understand tipping because there is usually a service change added to the bill. They also assume that if you pay for a beer, you bought it, and the price is upfront, you don't need to pay any more. Makes sense.

You should tip a person who brings your bag to your room, but that's about it, and if you're backpacking you'll probably not have to worry about that.

miss_jojo

Like the other respondent said, there's usually a service charge included so tipping is not required.

However, if you've had a coffee, it's polite to leave the small change. Yes, even if you thought the coffee was exhorbitantly expensive.

webstergirl3210

tipping is not common in France unless you experience truly exceptional serive. especially if you are a young person, the wait staf and such do not really expect to recieve tips form you.

Smiling Face

Tiping is not so much of a custom like in North America.

Restaurants: yes you may leave a little bit
Cafes: not really
Room Service: No
Taxi Cabs: No

Save yourself some Euro and enjoy more of your trip.

BlueSkies

When i was in France and Italy last year I tipped in every restaurant and cafe until I met up with an Irish friend who now lives in Lyon because of business. We ate at a nice bistro and when i mentioned tipping, he looked a little confused and said that he RARELY leaves a tip at restaurants.

coulda saved a few euros...

Hostel Guru

Tipping in France and Italy is widely not expected. But as a rule of thumb, if you think you got good service then why not tip them!

Enjoy the travels!

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