Tipping has become a common practice. Many people feel guilty if they don’t leave an adequate tip or don’t tip at all, influenced by the tipping culture. Etiquette expert Elaine Swann suggests that while offering a tip for counter service is a nice gesture, it is not essential because people working counters usually make a proper wage. But there are some places where you don’t tip workers. Here are ten places you should not leave a tip.
1. Japan
You should never tip in Japan. And you should know that the bill isn’t brought to the table in restaurants; it’s brought to the bar. But tipping the bartender is a no-no too.
In Japan, 'exemplary service' is considered standard and does not require tipping.
2. Spain
Tipping in Spain is highly unusual and therefore not missed by service workers. Often, a ten-percent service charge is included in your bill. But it is rarely given to staff. Also don’t tip for taxi rides, hotel services, etc. In Spain, tipping is not expected even for excellent service.
3. China
Although Hong Kong is excluded, Chinese people find tipping a strange concept. In mainland China, tipping is generally not practiced except for tour guides. This may change in the future because of western tourism. A heartfelt gift from your own country may be appreciated.
4. Denmark
You don’t tip in Denmark. Danish law decrees that a restaurant bill should include service charges. But keep in mind that most hospitality workers receive good pay and benefits. However, some establishments may charge a service fee instead of expecting a tip.
5. Brazil
Most Brazilians have never heard about tipping. And even for those who know about it, they aren’t offended if you forgo the tip.
In Brazil, not tipping is not seen as a lack of a nice gesture.
6. Australia
In Australia, workers in the hospitality industry earn a good living. As a result, there’s no tipping. They also don’t tack on a service charge.
In most restaurants, tips are not expected.
In the US, there's also several places where tipping is not customary - here's a few of those:
7. All-Inclusive Resorts
All-inclusive resorts charge you a fixed fee that includes hotel food, and amenities. When you’re through eating or doing another activity, you just leave. You don’t pay for anything, and you don’t tip.
Since the fee is fixed, there is no need to leave more money as a tip.
8. Flight Attendants
Although flight attendants bring your drinks and food, there’s no tipping. Because their primary purpose is to help passengers in case of an emergency, they are considered first responders instead of service workers.
Tipping etiquette does not apply to flight attendants.
9. Hospital Workers
Even though you’ve had top-notch care, you don’t tip the nurse. This would be crossing professional boundaries.
Tipping culture does not apply in hospitals.
10. Curbside Delivery at Grocery Stores
Many grocery stores have a no-tipping policy. Tipping is not only inappropriate, but it could also get your service worker in trouble. Check the tipping policy. Additionally, tipping is not expected for counter service at grocery stores.
Conclusion
Tipping isn’t always necessary or wanted. Check the country’s traditions before going overseas. You don’t want to offend someone. And even if you love the service, be aware it’s not always appropriate to tip. In other countries like Japan and South Korea, tipping is not expected. Even if tip jars are present, tipping is not mandatory.
