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Guide to Tipping |
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Join The Discussion
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"... would it (tipping) be considered another example of "rich gringos" displaying their wealth? "
Bonnie
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A tip in South America, like in any other country, is given to reward good service. Usual practices may vary from
country to country, even within regions in a country, but the normal guidelines apply.
However, even when a gratuity is added to your bill by the management, remember that a little extra directly to the person performing a service
for you won't break your budget, but may make a large difference to someone else. Pay the person directly. Don't leave
money on a restaurant table.
Where I quote a percentage, that is a percentage of the local currency. Where I suggest a sum, it is in US dollars. Of course,
you will tip more or less depending on your situation. Note: the question of tipping
has raised some interesting points. Make sure you read the posts in the forum (link at right)
and add your opinion!
A tip is a propina in Spanish, gorjeta in Portuguese.
| Country |
Tipping Suggestions |
| Argentina |
10% in restaurants. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters |
| Bolivia |
10% in restaurants and taxis. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters |
| Brazil |
10% in restaurants; 10-15% in hair salons. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters, none to
taxi drivers, except in Rio, where 10% is normal, but if you choose an unmetered taxi, settle on the fare first |
| Chile |
10% in restaurants, less in bars and cafes. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters, none to
taxi drivers |
| Colombia |
10% in restaurants, hairdressers, barbers. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters, none to
taxi drivers |
| Ecuador |
Tax and gratuity are added to your restaurant bill, but add 10% for
good service. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters, none to
taxi drivers. $2-3 per person on a guided tour |
| Paraguay |
10% in restaurants and taxis. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters |
| Peru |
Gratuity is added to your restaurant bill, add up to 10% for good service.
$.50 - .75 per bag to porters, none to taxi drivers. 10-15% in upscale hair salons |
| Venezuela |
10% in restaurants and taxis with a meter.
In unmetered taxis, agree on the fare in advance. $.50 - .75 per bag to porters |
Copyright © Bonnie Hamre 1998 - 2003