(whom I met on my travels in NZ and then proceeded to meet up with later in Hollywood). In NZ, Australia, and Denmark it is not customary to tip. Here's why: the minimum wage in these countries is double (if not triple) than that of the United States. That's why they don't need your money. In the United States, its a bit different (especially outside California). The U.S. is kinda backwards all over (hello feet, inches, degrees, mph). We don't make what the rest of the world makes, precisely why we depend on your tips. But Paul, my service really sucked! Well, the guy probably has been there too long or maybe he's having a bad day. It happens. Solution: Ask for a manager. I don't take it out the waiter's pocket. Give the guy some $, and politely as for a manager. That way, Mr. X got his money and you have someone to talk to about your bad service. Don't make a scene, don't throw things, don't stomp about til you get a free appetizer (because that appetizer was dropped on the floor on purpose). Say your peace, pay your money, and hopefully someone will respond with someone productive. Scenario 2: You walk up to the bartender and say "Hey man, I'm a real big tipper, take care of me, and I'll get you back." More often than not, that dude stiffs you after you've been hooking him up all night. Solution: You get to a bar, throw the bartender $ up front and say "Hey, you get me, there's more to come." Now I know you mean business. When I left $6 on the table after my $30 meal, my guys from Denmark thought I was crazy. Dude is working at 3am and probably has been there since 6pm with no breaks. Ya, I gave'em $6. Minimum wage in Denmark is $20. I'll type that again. MINIMUM WAGE IN DENMARK IS $20. They get free healthcare and free university (college to you U.S. types). Sounds like paradise...where do I sign up?! The catch: they get taxed double what we do. They make more and get taxed more, which in turn goes back into the country so they can pay for healthcare/school. We get taxed less and pay for everything. So it evens out really. Well look at that, we all learned something today. We all got some culture. That's what I'm here for, education. Bringing the world together, one tip at a time
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Great post! I have worked in the service industry for some time now and it makes a HUGE difference when I get tipped. I think it is a common courtesy that many people do not follow through with (or give enough). Psychologically, it makes me want to work harder for the person when I get a good tip. Maybe things should be changed socially and tip at the beginning of the meal/service, otherwise you get upset after doing an awesome service and receiving "peanuts"...
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