Originally Posted by THECLIPPERS
I agree with robyng about not needing to get the lowest price on everything. When I travel to Asia, I always give tips to everyone even though it might be included. It just makes me feel good to help someone else out, who doesn't make that much.
If a taxi in Thailand or Vietnam charges me too much, who cares? What will I loose $1-5. That is just tip money for a taxi in the U.S.
Spread the wealth people and feel good about it. Maybe that taxi driver or tour guide will be able to buy his or her kids an extra toy or ice cream because of you. Doesn't that make you feel good?
I totally see the humanitarian aspect, but there is also an economic consideration - inflation. If everyone overpays, it drives up the price of the product or service and can then put it out of reach of lower paid locals. It's not much of an issue for 'tourist services' i.e. deluxe hotels, tours but is a major concern in areas like taxis, street food etc.