I try to stick with local customs. At home, I tip 18-20+% post tax... never really thought about extracting the tax until I read this thread. If they add a 18% SC, then that's it for me... sorry. A waiter's beef would then have to be with the management who made the call.

My post previously was simply that in other countries where waiters are not working for tips, it is new and concerning that service charges are added. There are a couple of things that struck me on my last trip:
- Are they doing this selectively to me because they know I'm from the US?
- Are they selectively deciding what sc rate to apply because I used a Amex or Visa? As opposed to no sc or smaller sc if I paid cash..??

These things cross my mind.......