scaltreto

What is the general rule of thumb re tipping in London; i.e., hotel/day, taxi, luggage, etc. I know pub tipping is a no, no. Replies are appreciated.

Marion

Best to tip cab drivers. Watch out for restaurants who automatically put a 'service charge' on the bill - you don't have to pay it and just make sure that they don't leave a blank 'tip' section on your credit card slip.<BR><BR>Other than that, it's entirely to your discretion. On the whole we don't have a 'tipping' culture but it would probably be appreciated.

Nigel Doran

No need to tip bartenders at all. If you are feeling really generous and have got to know the bartender very well over a few days, you might say 'have one for yourself' but don't be surprised if they decline or take money from the change for a drink once the shift is over. <BR>Don't tip more than 12.5% in restaurants. In the U S they expect more, but this is not the U S. 10% is fine for places like Pizza Express, Belgo, and for post/pre restaurant offers. <BR>Cabbies can be tipped, but no need to follow a strict 10% rule. <BR>No need to leave an envelope of notes for the maid in your hotel, and unless your hotel is really swish (4*) then dishing out pound coins is not expected. <BR>All in all, if you are coming from the U S, then if you feel you are really not tipping enough, you have probably got it right.

Annette

Rule of thumb is usually 10% unless you have had superb service anywhere, Then anything else is a bonus

beth anderson

yes, pay attention. I seem to find that in Europe in general they usually add a tip to it (this happened a lot in Italy). I've seen it in London too, not as much in France...

tipping

Don't they tip cows also? or is that just in Ireland?