Tipping Tips

Who do you tip? When? How much? These are the questions that have nagged at consumers since the first service transaction.? The practice of tipping is meant as a form of thank-you for services rendered or beforehand as a subtle bribe for special treatment.

Tipping need not be considered mandatory or automatic. Too often, tips are taken for granted or expected regardless of the quality of service. Tipping should be done at your discretion and as a reward for good or superlative service.

Below are some tipping suggestions for travellers. At nearly every step of the traveling process, there are professionals waiting to "lighten your load" or provide assistance. So remember to carry a lot of change and small bills for tips.

1. Taxi Drivers
A tip of Rs. 100-150 is usually satisfactory, it can be more if he helps you with your bags and/or takes special steps to get you to your destination on time.

2. Porters
A standard tip for airport and train porters is Rs 30-40 per bag; more if your luggage is very heavy.

3. Hotel Bellman
Again, Rs 40-50 per bag is standard. But Tip only when he shows you to your room and again if he assists you upon checkout. Tip more if he provides any additional service.
Note : if you tip more upon arrival it can usually guarantee you special attention if you require.

4. Doorman
Typically, a Rs 40-50 tip for hailing a taxi is appropriate, however, you may want to tip more for special service, such as carrying your bags or shielding you with an umbrella.

5. Concierge
Tip for special services such as making restaurant or theater reservations, arranging sightseeing tours, etc. The amount of the tip is generally dependent on the type and complexity of service(s) provided. You may elect to tip for each service, or in one sum upon departure. If you want to ensure special treatment from the concierge, you might consider a tip upon arrival.

6. Hotel Maid
Maids are often forgotten about when it comes to tipping because they typically do their work when you are not around. For stays of more than one night, you should tip them.

7. Parking Attendants
Tip Rs 40-50, when your car is delivered.

8. Waiters
15-20% of your pre-tax check is considered standard. The same applies to room service waiters. Some restaurants will automatically add a 15% gratuity to your bill, especially for large parties - look for it before tipping. If the 15% is added, you need only tip up to another 5% for superlative service.

9. Cloakroom Attendants
If there is a charge for the service, a tip is not necessary; however, if there is no charge, or extra care is taken with your coat and/or bags, a tip is appropriate.

10. Tour Guides/Charter Bus Drivers
If a tip is not automatically included, tip Rs 40-50 for a half-day tour, Rs 90-100 for full-day tour, and anywhere from Rs 250-500 for a week-long tour. Tip a private guide more.

These are some of the people you are most likely to encounter while travelling. Undoubtedly there will be others. If there is one standard rule in tipping it is this.