Tipping is pretty normal in a bunch of places, like Indonesia. It’s a way of saying, “Hey, good job!” or “Thanks for the great service!” But in these two tourist hotspots, tipping could land you in hot water.
Travel whiz Justin spilled the beans on two countries where tipping is a no-no because it’s seen as kind of insulting. In China and Japan, folks don’t expect tips. They figure that serving you at a restaurant is just part of what you paid for.
Tipping in Southeast Asia
But in some touristy spots, especially in places like Thailand and Vietnam, tipping is starting to catch on.
“Tipping’s becoming more of a thing in touristy areas,” he spilled, as per Express.co.uk. “Over in Indonesia, a service charge of five to 10 percent would be cool if it’s not already included.”
But giving tips to taxi drivers, bars, or coffee joints? Not in Asia.
“It’s probably best to play it safe and skip tipping in Asia to avoid accidentally stepping on someone’s toes. But hey, you can always hit up the locals or hotel staff for advice,” he suggested.
Tipping in China and Japan
China’s pretty strict when it comes to tipping, Justin pointed out. “They’re not into it. Tipping’s seen as kind of pointless and even rude there.”
But if you’re in a super busy tourist area, slipping someone a tip might not raise any eyebrows.
In Japan, tipping’s seen as part of the service and could even be seen as a bit rude, Justin explained.
A little gift might be a better way to show your appreciation if you’re dead set on saying thanks. And guess what? Tipping’s not really a thing in South Korea either.
In fact, trying to tip at a restaurant might get you a polite rejection and a side of awkwardness.