Need some suggestions regarding tips for taxi, shuttle drivers, waiters, maids, etc. We are staying in upscale hotels while on a Tauck tour, but will have a few meals on our own and possibly other situations when tips are necessary.

Hi Karen <BR> <BR>Tipping over here isn't like it is back in the States. For starters, never tip the bartender. Where in the US this would get you kicked out of the joint, in Ireland it is the unwritten law. The serving lads or girls, who come around getting drinks orders or delivering your brew, are supposed to be tipped, though. Give them a couple of pounds. <BR> <BR>Taxi drivers make tens of thousands of pounds per year over here. It's extremely lucrative: seriously, they do not need your money. Giving an extra pound on top of the fare is the norm in Ireland, and even that is optional. <BR> <BR>I always like to leave a couple of squid (squid = quid = pounds) for the maid, in a hotel. It's not expected, but I am sure it is appreciated. <BR> <BR>Before deiding on a tip in a restaurant, see if a service charge has already been included. If it hasn't, leave them a little something. <BR> <BR>All the best on your trip! More info on my website. <BR> <BR>Mick <BR>www.dfaguide.com

Karen, <BR> <BR>Just to slightly correct Mike. It is not the norm to openly tip bar men and women by leaving cash however if you are happy with the service it is standard amongst the Irish to say " have one yourself" or "take oneself for yourself for later" ie after they finish working. So in reality you are buying them a drink, now whether or not they will take the cash or the drink it is irrelevant but you have then tipped them. <BR> <BR>Hope this helps you on this matter. <BR> <BR>Re taxis tip add an extra £ but taxis are rip offs in general and the taxi service is nearly as bad as the public transport service. Do remember that they do charge you for you bags etc so don't feel obliged. <BR> <BR>Re hotel staff - waiters do expect and should be tipped. Service Charge included on the bill is not necssarily passed onto the staff. If paying by credit card leave a few £s on the table. <BR> <BR>Re hotel staff leave it in the room after you check out, <BR> <BR> <BR>Hope this helps you, <BR> <BR>Cathy

Mick and Cathy, thank you for your excellent suggestions, a great help!!! Now, I just hope we can go to Ireland on Friday via American Airlines...we are just waiting to see what happens in the next 18-24 hours and may have to postpone for couple of weeks.

Karen, <BR> <BR>Please rest assured that when you do come there will be a warm welcome for you, our sympathies are with you and all those directly affected by yesterday's dreadful events. If you need any further assistance please email me or post, <BR> <BR>Take Care <BR> <BR>Cathy