bigglescat

21 sleeps to go and I am very excited - but I come from a country where tipping is very unusual, I would only tip for exceptional service in an expensive restaurant or hotel/lodge.

I am staying at an expensive hotel in Jo'burg, WS lodges in the delta and up in the Linyanti region, and at the Vic Falls Hotel in Zim. Assuming everything is in USD, how much should I tip for (perhaps suggest a range for stingy to generous!):
- drivers?
- people who help with baggage?
- lodge staff?
- maid/cleaning staff?
- vehicle guides?
- mokoro guides?

Who have I missed?

Also, what is the most sensitive way of tipping? Should I leave it till the last day (assuming I will see them on the last day) and use an envelope, or just pass it over with a smile and a thankyou?

Would appreciate your comments!

afrigalah

bigglescat,

There are plenty of threads on this subject. Just search for tipping or tips.

John

matnikstym

bigglescat-afrigalah is right about tipping threads here. Just search. Most are for the lodges and camps, not much on hotels so i'll give you my recommendation for your stay at the VF Hotel.
porter: $1-$2 for each piece of luggage (give this to them when they bring your luggage to the room)
maid: $2-$3 per person per night (leave on the dresser or table with a note saying it's a tip)
room service- $2-$3 for the guy/girl delivering it (give to them when they bring up the food/drinks) + you can tip the cook staff on the bill you will sign for
waiters: your discretion as to how the service was but generally 10%-20% of the bill
taxi driver-$3-$5 or more, depending on how far you rode and if he made the ride enjoyable
shuttle driver (if taking a shuttle to an activity)- $1-$2 per person.
restroom attendant-$1.00
Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

HariS

Pl ask your travel agent (with whom you have booked) for the best guidance on the subject in terms of amounts for lodges/camps.

Camps have envelopes to use for the guides/trackers and there is a common tip box for the camp staff.....