Tipping the Balance

AND TippingThere are some crazy stories circulating around Almuñécar at the moment about leaving tips for waiting staff when eating out. In the US for example tipping is a different animal altogether, and trying to exit a restaurant without leaving at least a 15% or 20% tip can cause all sorts of problems.

The same applies to taxis, hotel staff, etc. There are also differing habits and customs in Northern Europe.

Now, here on the Costa Tropical, we are hearing that some expats have been misinformed that certain establishments expect a tip. Obviously, this is completely untrue, but surely it’s just common courtesy to leave something for the waiting and kitchen staff, isn’t it?

We decided to ask a few different establishments what their view was on tipping and they all seem to be singing from the same hymn sheet… it’s in no way obligatory but it is a nice gesture.

One restaurant owner said, “Of course we don’t expect our customers to tip and as an owner it makes little difference to me. However, waiting staff are normally working for the minimum wage or even less, so it is a courteous thing to do.”

Editors Comment: On a personal level I feel it is rude not to leave something, I usually try to leave around 10% and have done so since 1982. So far I have not received any sour looks or comments. Feel free to let us know if you’re a tipper or a non-tipper and if you do, how much?

 

(News: Costa Tropical, Granada, Andalucia)

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