Traveling to a new country always comes with its own set of customs and expectations, and tipping is one of those cultural nuances that can leave even seasoned travelers scratching their heads. While some nations have a deeply ingrained tipping culture, others find the practice unnecessary or even offensive. Understanding when and how much to tip in restaurants, hotels, and taxis can make your journey smoother and ensure you don’t accidentally commit a social faux pas.

In the United States, tipping is practically mandatory, especially in the service industry. Restaurant staff, hotel bellhops, and taxi drivers all rely heavily on gratuities to supplement their wages. A standard tip of 15-20% of the bill is expected at restaurants, while hotel staff such as housekeepers or valets typically receive $2-$5 per service. Taxi drivers, on the other hand, usually get 10-15% of the fare. Failing to tip appropriately in the U.S. can lead to awkward encounters or even poor service in the future.

Crossing the Atlantic to Europe, the rules change dramatically. In countries like France and Italy, a service charge is often included in the bill, rendering additional tipping unnecessary. However, leaving small change—5-10%—for exceptional service is appreciated. Hotels in Europe may include service fees, but it’s still customary to leave a few euros for housekeeping. Taxi drivers generally expect you to round up the fare, though tipping beyond that isn’t common. The key here is subtlety—overtipping can sometimes come across as showy or even condescending.

Venturing into Asia presents an entirely different landscape. In Japan, tipping is not part of the culture and can even be considered rude. Staff in restaurants and hotels take immense pride in their work and see no need for extra compensation. If you attempt to leave a tip, you might find a confused server chasing you down to return your money. Similarly, in South Korea, tipping is uncommon, though high-end hotels and Western-style restaurants may accept it. Taxi drivers across most of Asia don’t expect tips, though rounding up for convenience is harmless.

Meanwhile, in the Middle East, countries like the UAE and Qatar have a more Westernized approach to tipping due to their large expatriate populations. In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is standard if a service charge isn’t already included. Hotel staff, particularly in luxury establishments, often receive tips for their assistance, and taxi drivers appreciate a small gratuity, usually rounding up to the nearest note. The practice here is more flexible, blending local customs with international norms.

Latin America offers yet another perspective. In Mexico, tipping is expected, with restaurant servers anticipating 10-15% of the bill. Hotel maids and porters also rely on tips, usually a few dollars per service. Taxi drivers, however, don’t typically expect tips unless they’ve provided extra assistance. Brazil follows a similar pattern, though some upscale restaurants automatically include a service charge. Always check the bill to avoid double-tipping.

Australia and New Zealand stand out as countries where tipping isn’t deeply rooted in the culture. Workers in these nations earn fair wages, so tipping is seen as a bonus rather than an obligation. That said, leaving 5-10% at restaurants for outstanding service is becoming more common, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Hotels and taxis don’t usually warrant tips, though rounding up the fare or leaving loose change is a kind gesture.

Navigating the world of tipping requires a blend of research and intuition. While guidelines exist, local customs can vary even within regions. Observing what locals do or discreetly asking a trusted source can save you from over- or under-tipping. At the end of the day, tipping is about showing appreciation—getting it right ensures your gratitude is received as intended.