If you are traveling overseas, chances are you will be buying things and paying for services. Avoid awkward or embarrassing situations by finding out what is expected regarding tipping. In some places it is customary and in others not at all, so knowing whether or not you are being respectful or offensive is probably a good idea.

Photo: Nick Humphries

Malaysia – Tipping isn’t much of a part of the culture here and it is actually banned in airports throughout the country. Malaysia hotels and restaurants include a 10 % service charge in the bill and discourage further tipping on top of that. For any other services, tipping is not expected though you can feel free to add whatever amount you feel like giving if you decide you want to tip.

Canada – Tipping in Canada is pretty much mandatory. Service industry staff here are usually paid quite poorly with the expectation that your tips will make up the shortfall. In restaurants, unless the service is especially poor, you are expected to add 15% to the cost of your bill (before tax has been added). It is becoming more common to see tip jars at places that only offer counter service, though don’t feel obliged to put 15% of your bill in their tip jar. Any tip will be greatly appreciated though these workers generally are paid a little better.

Qatar – Service charges pretty much take the place of tipping in Qatar with a 10% charge added to most restaurant and hotel bills. Doha hotels are much the same, though if you receive really good service anywhere, feel free to give a tip, it will always be appreciated.

U.S.A. – Tipping is essential in the United States, so if you don’t tip you are pretty much withholding a persons pay. Service industry workers here are paid below minimum wage so they rely on tips to be able to survive. Unless the service is horribly bad, you are expected to leave a 15% tip. It’s always good to tip in cash as well so that you know your server will get the money.

U.K. – Unlike North America, workers in the U.K. make more respectable money so tipping is less a requirement and more up to your personal whim. Restaurants will often add a 10% service charge for large group bookings though in pretty much every other setting this is not the case. Again, tip if you want to, if you can afford to, good service should always get at least a small tip.

France – The law here requires that any service charges be included into the bill at places like hotels and restaurants. Generally such charges are about 10% of the bill, though unless the service is really bad, you are expected to leave some kind of additional tip. Great service will usually get a 10% tip.

Working conditions vary a lot around the world and in some places your tips are counted on by workers struggling make a living. Its important to educate yourself on what the situation is so that you are able to be respectful to those serving you.