threeoh

I think minimum wage at SFO is $13.50 though.

Doppy

Pouring a soda at the club is less work than taking and filling an order at McDonalds, but nobody tips there.

krazykanuck

Am Canadian, but close enough, and have lived in the US for a long time. I suppose I count as a millenial. I think this thread is insane. I think the concept of tipping in a premium lounge environment is stupid. The whole point of being in a premium/all included service is to avoid BS like this. I think the whole over the top Americanized reality of tipping is stupid (I mean in what other normal day to day customer/worker situation do you pay somebody a discretionary amount after the service is performed), but that's a topic for another thread.

Ugh. Makes me like the old NW lounges at MSP and DTW where the bar is self serve. If you feel obligated to leave a tip, just shift a couple $1 bills from your wallet to another pocket.

Visconti

I don't necessarily disagree with this concept. When membership fees are collected, everyone should be treated the same and adhere to a set of "house" rules, which UA can set at their discretion.

chavala

SJWarrior

Visconti

LOL...well, probably shouldn't admit this, when I say Americans, I've always included Canadians. I'm trying to be more inclusive as I age.

Xyzzy

Should I do economic research on the area the Polaris lounge is in and ask the server's wage and socioeconomic status so I can determine whether or not to tip? I think not. As someone said above, it's a PREMIUM LUNGE. Even United doesn't think employees should have their hands out seeking tips. <sigh>

flyme2

As another Canadian, if that is at all relevant, my practice is different. I tip if I feel it is deserved, no matter where I am. I always travel with at least 100 $1 USD bills, and dole them out accordingly, where warranted. Recently, in the EWR Polaris lounge, I lunched at its restaurant. My server was deferential and successfully accommodated my tight schedule, going so far as to proactively bring me items she felt would enhance my main selection. I felt my $10 tip was warranted, given the level of service and attention I received. Before leaving, I was approached by the lounge manager who ascertained my satisfaction with the Polaris experience. Of course, my opinion was greatly influenced by the service I had received, but I also critiqued areas I felt required some attention. Long story short: tipping is discretionary and not required. If you feel you've received service above the norm, and can afford it, tip accordingly. If you feel otherwise, don't tip. Guilt is not a trip you need take.

Visconti

@flyme2 makes some excellent points. I'd imagine, even those working in the Polaris lounge can use some extra cash once in a while. Also agree tip jars have no place in a lounge environment; passive aggressive behavior geared towards procuring one, which, in my view, shouldn't even be dignified with a reply, let alone any kind of reward.

MrGood

After keeping tabs on this thread's varied responses, it has changed this guy's view of tipping in both UC and PL ^

While I will Always tip in a restaurant or bar for great service, I now get that there are many lounge factors that dictate how we really should NOT. But, nobody's gonna stop you from doing it (or not) -- and again, it's *Your* right to decide!

Jay

Jm0115

I got the same speech from the waiter in EWR PL - I was surprised that they asked for a tip...but I guess this is routine now

chavala

Not sure exactly what he said, but if implied I need to tip him, he would be reported.

Meola10

chavala

For crying out loud -- it's NOT necessary!