Monday, May 28, 2012

Transportation & Lodging Tipping

Transportation:  Getting from here to there, whether for business or pleasure, is a necessary and unavoidable part of  modern life.  Many people are involved in getting you from Point A to Point B.  How you tip will depend on the type of transportation you choose and the quality of service you receive along the way.  From the skycap who helps you check your large bags to the taxi driver who makes sure you arrive on time, they all help to make your journey safe, timely and hassle-free.  Tip them for their service, as you would a waiter or bartender, and keep in mind, the more expensive the mode of transportation the more you will be expected to tip.  Suggestions for appropriate tips:
Cabdriver - 10%
Airport Skycap - $2 per bag
Airport Cart Driver/Wheelchair Assistant - $2-$3 per person
Tour Guide -  $1-$10 per day
Shuttle Bus Driver - 15%
Limousine or Car-Service Driver - 15-20%
Train Redcap or Porter - $1-$2 per bag, or service
Train Dining-Car Wait Staff - 15%

Lodging:  Any experienced traveler knows that the quality of one's stay is in the hands of the hotel staff.  Unfortunately, people often forget to budget for tips as they plan their trip.  To avoid surprises, include tipping in your budget ahead of time, and tuck 15-20 $1 bills into your pocket to cover your tips upon arrival.  When staying at a hotel there is a whole range of services and people available to you - from the doorman who welcomes and assists you with packages to the concierge who gets you into the most popular restaurant.  How you utilize each person and the services they offer varies greatly as well as the tipping protocol.  Here are some tipping suggestions for you:
Doorman - $1-$3
Bell staff - $1-$2 per bag
Concierge - $5
Front-Desk Clerk - no tip
Housekeeper - $2-$4 per night
Room Service Staff - 15%
Poolside Attendant - $2-$5

Have a great vacation!


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