If you are an avid world traveler or are planning to take a trip to another country, one part of the trip that can be confusing is how much should be given as a ‘tip.’ It can be confusing figuring out how much of a tip to give for good service and you also want to make sure that you don’t end up leaving a big tip for bad service, especially when considering the foreign exchange. To help you figure out the best tipping practices, the following is a guide to tipping around the world.

Canada: When visiting Canada, it is suitable to leave a tip of 15 – 20 percent at a restaurant, 10 – 20 percent at a bar, and 10 – 20 per cent for taxi drivers. At establishments such as coffee shops, there is normally a tip jar by the cash register where customers can drop a few coins in the jar. For hotels, it is appropriate to tip maids at $1 – $2 per day, the concierge a small amount at check out, and room service at about 15%.

United States: When visiting the US, it is appropriate to leave 20% at restaurants, 20% at bars, pocket change at a cashier tip jar, and at a take out restaurant, between $2 and $5. For taxi drivers, it is standard to leave $2 for a $5- fare and $3 for a $10- fare. Any higher taxi fare, the tip is about 20%. For hotels, tipping is as follows: maids: $5 to $10/night, room service: about $20%, and concierge: $10 for making any arrangements such as reservations, and $5 for providing information.

Mexico: For restaurants in Mexico, sometimes the bill includes the tip. If it does not include the tip, 10% – 15% is appropriate. At a bar, 10% of the total or $1 to $2 per round of drinks is suitable. For hotels, tips include: bellmen $1-$2 per bag, concierge $5 – $10 for making arrangements, maid $3 – $5 per day, valet $1 – $2, and a taxi driver is about a few dollars.

Caribbean: For all inclusive resorts and hotels, the price will include the tip. For restaurants, it is about 10%, and bars about 15% of the total bill or $1 per drink. For taxi drivers, tipping is about $1 – $2 and more for holidays, Sundays, and late night fares. For hotels, maids are about $2 per day, valets are a few dollars, and bellmen are about $1-$2 per bag.

Europe: Many European countries do not expect tips. In France, a service charge is included, however, for really good service, it is suitable to add a 10 -15% tip. As well, it is fine to leave change at a caf. In the UK and Ireland, a service charge will be included at hotels and restaurants, however, for really great service, you can add 10%. In the UK and Ireland, people do not tip in pubs. Tipping is not expected in Germany, Portugal, Italy, and Spain; however, 10% can be added for great service. For taxi drivers, it is appropriate to tip about 10%. For European hotels, it is suitable to tip two Euros for maids and porters.

Every country has its own criteria regarding tipping. It is always helpful and prevents misunderstandings when you know what to tip so that you can have a relaxing and fun vacation. Remember, the people waiting on you work hard, and the tip you provide will likely help their family.

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After a tough year studying and taking tests and final exams, many students enjoy their vacation by traveling. The travel industry is filled with great deals for student travelers, especially online travel discount sites. If you are a student looking to travel, below is a list of helpful advice for student travelers when touring the world.

Wear the Canadian Flag: When you sew the Canadian Flag on your backpack, you will enjoy goodwill from citizens in other countries. Because Canadians are known throughout the world as being well mannered and courteous travelers, wearing the red maple leaf will result in a friendly welcome.

Travel Destination: It is important to decide where you want to go early so you can make the appropriate arrangements and take advantage of great travel deals. If you travel to either Asia or Europe during the off season you will save a lot of money. In Europe, popular destinations include such cities as Paris, London, and Barcelona. As well, in Europe, there are many beaches, ski resorts, festivals, beautiful villages, cultural attractions and events, and much more.

Budget: It is important to make sure you can afford your trip. You should calculate how much you will spend daily on such items as getting around the destination, food, beverages, entertainment, souvenirs, and incidentals.

Student Identity Card (ISIC): It is essential that you acquire an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). This card is proof that you are a student and will enable you to get discounts on such things as: tours, restaurants, retailers, bicycle rentals, parks, museums and other cultural attractions, rental car….etc.

Flights: Research online travel discount sites to get the best possible deal. It is always a good idea to comparison shop at student-focused travel web sites.

Accommodations: It is recommended that you research and reserve your accommodations well in advance of the trip. You can often get student discount deals on accommodations. As well, it is important to check to see what is included in the price such as free WiFi and breakfast.

Necessary Items: It is important to remember such items as: travel insurance card, credit card, debit card, passport, cash, medication, International Driving Permit, first aid kit, and a list of important phone numbers such as your country’s embassy. Make sure to check to see if you need any vaccinations for the particular destination area. When choosing travel insurance, make sure you understand your coverage, including the exclusions. This is particularly important for medical coverage.

Destination Education: It is important to understand the destinations laws, customs, and language, to make sure there are no misunderstandings. You should also know a few words in the local language such as hello, goodbye, and thank you.

During your Trip: It is important to maintain contact with family and friends from back home. You can use such technology as Twitter, Blog, Facebook, and Skype. As well, make sure you practice good judgment and safety practices such as avoiding dangerous areas. It is important to research the destination area for any dangerous issues.

Traveling abroad as a student is a great way to explore new places and cultures. When you do your research, you can find really great deals ensuring that you will not burn through your bank account. When you travel as a student, you will enjoy your freedom and make lasting memories.

Cheapflights isall about providing fast and easy-to-use services to help you find cheap flights, travel deals and last minute travel tickets online. Our airline information pages explains everything you to need to know about booking cheap tickets online.