Originally Posted by
Saint4805
It's ridiculous to expect non-locals to research what waiting staff/lounge agents are paid before arriving in that country. Life would be so much easier if businesses increased prices by 15% or whatever, paid there staff more and allowed tipping to be discretionary based on the perceived level of service.
I agree, but it's not ridiculous to research tipping norms for services before visiting another country. I do it before every international trip I take, and I actually usually save some notes in my phone in case I forget the normal %. And you should tip based on the level of service. There are some people who feel like tips are a right, but they are earned...that's the basis of the system. But there are guidelines, at least in the US. You can always go outside the guidelines, or not tip at all for horrendous or offensive service.
Originally Posted by
supatight80
I don't go to the USA. But in many areas of the world, the restaurant bill also has service charge added, usually 10 - 15%. Do you guys have the too?
And do you give tips on top of the S.C. already added to the bill?
Service charges, while typical in Europe, are rare in the US. Rare meaning maybe 1 out of every 1000 times. As an American, I get annoyed that I have to pay a 10% service charge in Europe for poor service. At least in the US it's optional. But again, when in Rome...
Originally Posted by
supatight80
I mean is there a line for service charge and another line for gratuity too in restaurant bills in the USA?
Ex. Food - 100$
Service charge - 15$
Tax - 10$
Total: 125$
Tips: __________
There is not. You will see food, tax, and total lines with a blank line for tip. No service charge included.