There are a lot of things which can be done wrong on your hollies. For example in Italy burp-competitions are not particularly popular, while in some Asian countries this is simply good manners. There are an unlimited number of such examples and tipping is no exception. To avoid - at least in Europe - disappointment check out this useful overview of tipping customs for the most popular destinations in Europe.

Austria
In hotels you should give a tip of between 10 and 15 percent. The porter gets ?1 for every bag, the chambermaid ?1-2 per day. Give the money directly to the hotel staff on the day you leave. Hairdressers and taxi drivers get a "Schmattes" of between 5 and 10 percent.

France
In a restaurant or café tip between 10 and 15 %. If the price does already include a service charge you can tip less. Just leave it on the table. It is not necessary to give a tip in hotels. But as a guest you can leave something on the bedside table. Taxi drivers are supposed to get a 10 % tip.

Greece
Usually you should give about a 10 % tip, it is however nearly always an exaggeration to give more than ?1 in your everyday taverna. Hotel chambermaids usually get something - about a 10 % tip - personally on the day that you leave the hotel. Because of the high taxi prices no need to give an extra tip to the driver.

Italy
After a nice dinner with friendly service it is normal to give about a 10% tip. In an Espresso-Bar you can find separated cups or glasses at the bar for leaving a tip. It is up to you how much& But especially in bars you are not expected to give a tip; most Italians just pay the amount on the 'scontrino', i.e. the bill. In hotels it's common to give about ?5 a week for chambermaids. You don't have to give extra money to taxi drivers; just round up the amount slightly if it's on the company.

Malta
In hotels - if it is not included in the price - it is normal to give a 10% tip. Hairdressers and waiters in cafes also expect tipping at about 10% of the amount. Tips for taxi drivers are unusual.

Spain and Portugal
In restaurants and cafes it is standard to give a tip of 5 to 10 percent. If the waiter brings the change just leave it on the table. In taxis just round up to the next full amount. Never leave one-, two- or five cent-coins as a tip!

Turkey
In restaurants and cafes the standard tip is 10%. Not giving a tip is considered impolite. In hotels you can give ?1 per day directly to the staff. Round up the amount in taxis.

UK and Ireland
Ten to 15% tip in restaurants, in Ireland up to 10%. If the bill already includes a service charge then the guest tip far less. In pubs it is not considered rude not to tip however it is quite common nonetheless. About a pound will do for the porter in a hotel. And for taxi drivers just round up the fare.

Walueurope
June 2004