Originally Posted by
jpsj
I just got back from STL-ORD-PHL today. During the trip, I had so many occassions to tip people. They were:
1. Rental car van driver: one of my fellow passengers tipped the driver simply for driving
2. Checking bags curbside---another tipping opportunity
3. Starbucks: A box was set out to give tips to the workers
4. RCC: I got a drink at the bar---another tipping opportunity
5. Taxi ride home---another tip to the driver
The question I have is do you tip in all of these situations? I also had fantatic service from the PHL-ORD FA in first class. If I were to continue to the tipping culture of the airport, it would only seem right to tip the FA's.
Do you tip in all of these situations? How much do you factor into your trip expenses for tipping? Would you ever tip the FA?
Rental van: no.
Checking bags curbside: Yes, $5/bag. I want the bags to actually arrive!
Starbucks: leave any coins left over, at most That coffee is expensive enough.
RCC: a dollar for first soda. Usually a dollar tip for drinks, chit or not.
Taxi: 10-20% usually to round up to the nearest $10.
I'd add I tip plenty in restaurants if the service is decent or good, up to 20% or more.
BUT: I much prefer Japan and China: no tipping at all.
And last: FAs: never in a million years, but would possibly consider a chocolate gift from duty free in a truly exceptional circumstance. Certainly I compliment exceptional FAs copiously and use GTEMs when I remember to carry them.