Tip the chauffeur?
Feb 1, 2018 | 7:32 pm
#16
Join Date: Sep 2013
Programs: BAEC Gold, EK Skywards (enhanced Blue !), Oman Air Sindbad Gold
Posts: 6,798
Although in my own case, cannot recall any (major) issues with the CD booking process.
Emirates provide the advertised & contracted service as part of your ticket cost. I’ve always been a little confused as to why anyone feels obliged to tip their driver - but not, say, their cabin crew member who serves their meal onboard the aircraft - and is there to ‘look after you’ for a period lasting several hours.
I’m conscious that within the US things tend to operate differently. But that’s also a whole other debate surrounding the unpleasant culture of tipping across the entire service sector.
Feb 1, 2018 | 7:49 pm
#17
Join Date: Sep 2013
Programs: BAEC Gold, EK Skywards (enhanced Blue !), Oman Air Sindbad Gold
Posts: 6,798
Whats clear is that there is absolutely no obligation to give a tip - and nor should there ever be, where such a service is concerned. And there should be no expectation on the part of the driver (or any attitude that would make you feel uncomfortable).
Feb 1, 2018 | 8:43 pm
#18
Join Date: Jan 2016
Location: New York
Programs: EK Platinum, DL DM, AA EXP, UA Gold, Marriott Platinum, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 1,563
In the US tipping is expected for car service drivers/taxi, etc. for example I often use Carmel car and limo in the NY area. I always book the base fare online which doesnt include the tip, because I prefer to tip in cash during the ride. The drivers usually subtly remind me as were pulling up to the terminal my ride is already paid for but the tip wasnt included. A little tacky but I was already planning on tipping anyway.
Feb 2, 2018 | 3:53 am
#20
Ambassador, Emirates
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: LGW / AMS / CPT
Programs: SA KL BA EK
Posts: 4,836
Feb 2, 2018 | 4:10 am
#21
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Economy, mostly :(
Programs: Skywards Gold
Posts: 7,791
(to those unaware, in SA we also generally tip 10-15%)
Feb 2, 2018 | 4:14 am
#22
Ambassador, Emirates
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: LGW / AMS / CPT
Programs: SA KL BA EK
Posts: 4,836
)
Feb 2, 2018 | 4:31 am
#23
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: UK
Programs: Emirates Skywards Silver
Posts: 384
I spoke to a friend of mine who works for a company who provide the transfer service for Etihad
He said, and I quote, 'Tipping is not generally expected but the driver is always pleased to receive one, since it is in recognition of the service that has been provided' He also added that the drivers will always remember someone who tips them and makes sure that other drivers are aware of it
I am still none the wiser as to the official line, but I think my wallet may well be 10 lighter when the driver drops me at Gatwick
He said, and I quote, 'Tipping is not generally expected but the driver is always pleased to receive one, since it is in recognition of the service that has been provided' He also added that the drivers will always remember someone who tips them and makes sure that other drivers are aware of it
I am still none the wiser as to the official line, but I think my wallet may well be 10 lighter when the driver drops me at Gatwick
Feb 2, 2018 | 4:40 am
#24
Join Date: Sep 2013
Programs: BAEC Gold, EK Skywards (enhanced Blue !), Oman Air Sindbad Gold
Posts: 6,798
There really is NO ‘official line’. It’s entirely down to your own judgement and personal choice. Always has been.
The only reason your wallet will be “10 lighter” at Gatwick is if you want it to be !
Oct 21, 2023 | 5:33 am
#26
Join Date: Oct 2023
Posts: 8
Sir. Disappointed to see you don't tip your chauffeur. Of course this is not compulsory and is down to your own discretion. However, I would like to point out that UK chauffeurs are only paid the minimum uk wage. Also, they are not paid for any part of the journey that the car is empty. So in effect the driver could drive many miles/hours to collect you for nothing. Gratuities are a very important part of the chauffeurs income.
Oct 21, 2023 | 6:34 am
#28
Join Date: Aug 2017
Location: Manchester/London
Programs: Skywards Plat, Bonvoy Titanium
Posts: 1,303
Oct 23, 2023 | 8:19 am
#29
Join Date: May 2009
Location: Bangkok
Programs: Skywards
Posts: 201
Sir. Disappointed to see you don't tip your chauffeur. Of course this is not compulsory and is down to your own discretion. However, I would like to point out that UK chauffeurs are only paid the minimum uk wage. Also, they are not paid for any part of the journey that the car is empty. So in effect the driver could drive many miles/hours to collect you for nothing. Gratuities are a very important part of the chauffeurs income.
Officially, Emirates chauffeur drive includes all tips, tolls, and taxes
Oct 28, 2023 | 7:23 am
#30
Join Date: Oct 2023
Posts: 8
I was referring to GLA. Also, Could you show me where to see "officially, Emirates chauffeur drive includes all tips, tolls and taxes. I cant see that anywhere on the Emirates web site. I am confident they don't receive tips from the employer.