As with many aspects of traveling, we first need a fall back position. If people don't understand us, we automatically start talking louder. With tipping, we need a fall back percentage. When all else fails, 15 percent is usually a good percentage.



Okay, we know how much we will use as a standard tip. Now we have to decide which party initiates the process. Do you just add the percentage to the bill or is it already included as part of the basic meal service?

The first place you will do some tipping is probably the airport. Do not attempt to tip the customs officials! The airport skycaps, however, should get a dollar or two depending on how many suitcases you are having them carry for you.

You next tipping requirement will probably be your taxi driver. The baseline of service is the driver getting you from the airport to your hotel without any bodily injury. This deserves a tip of ten percent. You can add on for improved service.

If you are staying in a youth hostel or small hotel, don't sweat tipping for the lodging. If you are staying in a nice hotel, however, break out the green stuff. Bellhops pick up and move your luggage. Tip them a couple of bucks in thanks.

In some countries, you can evade the entire tipping subject. Why? The act is frowned upon and can even be considered an outright insulting act. No need to feel akward about it. The tip is usually already built into the bill.

An example of an upcoming tipping faux pas will be China. As you know, the summer Olympics are in Beijing in 2008. China has a unique view of tipping. It is seriously frowned upon! Imagine all those tourists and the confusion.

There are other often visited countries where tipping is unnecessary. The include Russia, Switzerland and Holland in Europe. Most of the countries in Asia, including Thailand and Cambodia frown upon it as well.

There is little reason to get caught up in the etiquette debate on tipping. Just use appreciation as a fall back position. If you appreciate the service provided, then show it with an appropriate tip.