Gratuities on board the Canadian
 

My wife and I are traveling on the Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver. Can anyone suggest the proper method of tipping? Do we tip for each meal, service, etc. or just once at the end of the trip? Inasmuch as we have reserved a compartment and everything is included in the fare, how much should be given either way? Thanks.

Good question! I would like to know too - since we will be on The Canadian next year.

From the Via Rail website:

"Tipping and service charges vary between 10% and 15% for taxis, restaurants and nightclubs. Hotel, rail station and airport porters expect $1 per bag carried. On trains, you are free to tip your server in the dining car and the individual responsible for your room or berth in the sleeper car. Do remember, however, that the crew will change several times on long journeys."

Not terribly helpful but better than nothing

Hi

I tipped after each meal; I noticed most did this... I estimated what the meal might cost and gave roughly 20% when the dining car service was good. The sleeping car attendant I'd tip upon arrival in Vancouver (the staff changes in Winnipeg, so don't forget about the earlier attendant like I did OOOPS)...up to you depending on how much you think they did; I tend to give $20 or $10 to the attendant depending on how much they do.

Best wishes, Daniel

Thx Daniel - this helps

Thanks, Daniel, especially the reminder about the change in staff.