When I went to NYC earlier this month, I did not realise how many people you needed to tip. I have lived in the States before, but was not aware of how much tipping was involved. Here are the most common people who you have to tip when you are in the Big Apple.
Taxi Drivers
Yes even taxi drivers expect tips. When I was in New York, I asked for change from my $10 bill and the driver had expected he could keep the $3. He asked “What about my tip?”. A bit of a cheeky really, assuming you are going to get $3 from a $10 cab ride.
Porter
The man or woman (although they are mostly men), who greet you at the door and get a cab for you are supposed to be tipped. I left the Hotel Pennsylvania with a friend of mine to head down town and the porter called the cab for us. Most of the taxi companies were not stopping outside the hotel as they were only picking up those who looked like they were going to the airport. A taxi to JFK can cost up to $80, whereas if you take the train, it is around $5.
Bell Boy
For anyone that has helped you bring your suitcase or other pieces of luggage to your room, they will expect a tip. You may have thought they were being really friendly despite you arguing you could manage the one piece of luggage on your own. It is sufficient to give a couple of dollars tip as a “thank you” for the helping with the luggage. If you are in a more expensive hotel, such as the Plaza, it may be more acceptable to pay $5.
Bartender
Even those who work behind the bar are tipped. Usually it works out at around $1 per drink. If you do not leave a tip, it is considered very rude. If you are visiting from another country, then this might be an excuse, otherwise do not go to that bar again.
Waitress
It is a well known fact that all waiters and waitresses make their money on tips. They normally get paid minimum wage and therefore reply on the tips for income. In the UK, sometimes a tip of 10% or 12.5% is added to the bill, In the US, take the tax of the state and multiply it be two. In NYC, tax is 8%, therefore a tip should be at least 16% of the total bill.
Next time you are in New York City, remember the amount displayed on the menu or on the taxi meter is not the final price. You need to add service on top and in restaurants that can be up to 20%.
