Tipping

[Gommar Goffer]

Having just noticed tipping mentioned in another thread I thought I would throw this one out to you all.

We, as brits, I think you will agree, or most will, have always been given the advice/impression that tipping should be between 5 and 10% of the bill if you felt it was worth it, both in the UK and Spain, etc.

On a recent trip to barcelona I read with interest that the spanish tend to only leave whatever loose change they have, even if it is only a few cents.

What are you experiences, thoughts and do any of you know what the locals tend to do?

GG

 

[debz1]

I think leaving loose change is mainly done in bars and cafes when you have been served drinks only. I may be wrong but my daughter worked in Madrid for a year and that was what the locals did and what we do in PP.

We usually tip around 10% in restaurants and I believe this to be the norm.

 

[eleanor]

I'm one of those miserable people who just hate tipping - not because I am mean but because I just never know what is expected!
I always do tip even if I'm not impressed as I feel I have to.
I understand that for many it is part of their wages but I really wish this wasn't the case and that a job is paid its worth.
In the States the expected amount is much higher - between 15% and 20% is the norm but eating out is much much cheaper.
I notice that even when a service charge is included on some bills a tip is still expected. It's a minefield!

 

[snowy2007]

I only tip for good service at 10% is the norm. If service charge is included I do not tip more.

 

[Lala70w]

I usually tip 10% - a bit more if the service is really good and a little less if not so good.

Very rarely will I not tip - I have done so when things have been really bad, but I HATE doing it. I feel so embarassed and shabby! But you shouldn't really feel like that - should you?

 

[Portofan]

Hi GG, good topic to raise.

I agree with what Snowy and Debz say and do just that.

If the service has been bad or not quite up to scratch it would probably be less, but seldom if ever, no tip at all.

The question is being raised re PP in particular and Spain in general, but that's what I'd do anywhere.

In Oz and NZ no tipping is the norm and you'd probably get your tip returned to you!

 

[med777]

we usually tip 10% and in bars too... so will take on board what has been said here.

But have been know both in the uk and aboard, if we have had a bad time in a restaurant to leave whatever is the lowest denomination of the country we are in... just to make the point !

America... well, being a 'server' ..its a trade and not something u do as a summer job or cant get anything else. I love the service u get in the US and many countries could take lessons from them.

As for PP... well most of the places we eat in tend to be the well tried, tested and loved, that are posted here. Generally, we find eating in PP to be a happy medium... just enuff service and friendliness to make eating out an enjoyable experience. Like Lala, we will tip more if the service has been extra special.

Miriam