If you’re feeling the effects of “tip fatigue” – that growing weariness with the increasing expectation to tip for almost every service in the United States – you’re not alone.
In the US, it’s become customary to tip servers anywhere from 15 to 20% of the total bill, with 20% or more becoming the norm for good service in recent years.
But did you know that in many places around the world, this isn’t the case? In fact, in some countries, offering a tip might even be seen as confusing, unnecessary, or downright impolite.
If you’re curious about what service looks like without the pressure of calculating gratuity, here are 9 countries where the tipping culture is significantly different from that in the U.S.:
1. Japan
When visiting Japan, you can confidently skip leaving a tip. The Japanese perspective is that tipping is simply unneeded by customers. Service staff, including waiters and waitresses, are likely to refuse any extra cash you might offer.
The standard practice is that the total payment at the end of the meal serves as confirmation that the service was satisfactory. This cultural difference means keeping your change is the expected behavior.
2. South Korea
Similar to Japan, tipping is not a customary practice in South Korea. Many service workers in the country may even perceive the act of offering a tip as disrespectful or impolite.
To easily avoid any potential awkwardness or misunderstanding, the best course of action is to simply keep your change rather than offering it as a gratuity. The culture does not expect or rely on tips for service staff.
3. Brazil
In Brazil, tipping is not mandatory. However, sometimes a section labeled “servicio” with a 10-15% tip might already be added to your bill.
This included service fee is usually optional. If the service truly exceeded your expectations and a fee wasn’t on the bill, offering a small tip is perfectly acceptable.
Brazil is also one of the countries where a “sit-down fee,” essentially a type of tip, might be charged.
4. China
Tipping in China is rarely required, although it is sometimes acceptable. Like in the U.S., it can indicate a customer’s satisfaction.
However, it’s crucial to remember that tipping in China may be considered disrespectful. It’s often best to avoid tipping altogether to err on the side of caution. An exception might be in touristy areas where tipping could be slightly more common.
5. Denmark
Leaving a tip in Denmark is completely optional. A key reason for this is that employees in the service industry are paid a full wage and do not depend on tips to supplement low pay.
Compensation for service workers is negotiated by employee unions and associations. The average minimum wage in Denmark is reported to be $18 an hour, contributing to employees’ financial stability.
6. Belgium
In Belgium, it is uncommon for service workers to anticipate or expect a tip. Some larger or more upscale restaurants may already include a service fee as part of your total bill.
Despite this, travelers should not feel any obligation to leave an additional tip on top of their payment. The culture does not place the burden of supplementing wages through gratuity on the customer.
7. Australia
The practice of tipping in Australia can be a subject of some debate depending on who you ask. The general guidance is that most services do not necessitate tipping.
However, if you are particularly pleased with the service you received, leaving around 10% is often appreciated by most service employees. So, while not required, it’s seen as a gesture for exceptional service.
8. New Zealand
New Zealand’s approach to tipping is based heavily on customer discretion. If customers feel they have received exemplary service, they are welcome to leave a tip of whatever percentage they feel is appropriate.
However, the decision of whether or not to leave a gratuity is purely a matter of personal preference and is not a requirement of service.
9. Estonia
Estonia, known for its historical sites and architecture, doesn’t have a significant tipping culture. This is similar to the norm in many other European countries.
If you do choose to leave a tip there, it is unlikely that local residents will perceive it as rude. This contrasts with the potential perception in certain parts of Asia, where tipping can sometimes be viewed negatively.
Alicia Richards