A2 · 231 words · English

Tipping Around the World

Lingard

You finish your meal and the bill arrives: should you leave a tip, and how much? The answer depends on the country. Find out why tips matter so much in the USA, what people say to the waiter when they pay in Germany, why a tip isn't necessary in France and what can happen if you leave money on the table in Japan.

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You finish your meal in a restaurant and get the bill. Should you leave a tip? And how much? The answer depends on the country you are in.

The United States

In the US, tips are very important. Many waiters get a low salary, and tips are a big part of their pay. In restaurants, people usually leave 15 to 20 percent of the bill. Taxi drivers and hairdressers get tips too.

The UK and Germany

In the UK, people often leave about 10 percent. But look at your bill first: sometimes the restaurant has already added a "service charge". In Germany, people usually round up the bill or add 5 to 10 percent. They often tell the waiter the full amount when they pay. For example, if the bill is 27 euros, you can say, "Thirty, please."

France

In France, the service is already in the prices on the menu. That's the law. So a tip is not necessary. But if you liked the meal and the service, you can leave a few coins on the table.

Japan

In Japan, people don't usually leave tips. Good service is normal, and you don't pay extra for it. If you leave money on the table, the waiter may even run after you to give it back!

So before you travel, check how tipping works in that country. A little research can save you from an awkward moment and help you say thank you in the right way.