The Parisian Rules of Tipping
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Destinations.
The Parisian Guide to Tipping
Enjoying Parisian Cafés
Picture yourself at a Parisian sidewalk café, leisurely sipping a Perrier and watching the world go by. It’s a quintessential experience for any traveler visiting Paris. Yet, when the bill arrives, the question often arises: To tip or not to tip?
Understanding the Bill
In Paris, unlike the U.S., your café or restaurant bill includes a mandatory 15% service charge. This is French law, ensuring tips are taxed appropriately. This charge, listed alongside the VAT (Value Added Tax), is clearly marked as "Service compris" (tip included). The good news? Menu prices already incorporate both the service charge and the sales tax, meaning what you see is exactly what you pay?"no surprises.
Should You Tip Extra?
While not obligatory, leaving a small extra tip as a gesture of appreciation is always welcomed. It’s a way to say "Thank you" for excellent service. Importantly, these extra tips go directly to your server, unlike the pooled 15% service charge, which may not always reach them. Some establishments even allow owners to retain part of this charge.
Suggested Extra Tip Amounts
For a coffee or soft drink, a few extra euro coins are sufficient. For meals, an additional 1-5 euros is appreciated. If you want to go the extra mile, consider leaving 5-10% of the total bill. Remember, there’s no obligation or fixed percentage?"it’s entirely up to you.
Tipping in Other Situations
- Taxis: Taxi drivers earn modest wages and work hard daily. Tipping 5-10% of your fare is thoughtful.
- Opera Usherettes: A couple of euros is customary; they also earn from program sales.
- Movie Ushers: A small tip of 50 euro cents is appreciated.
- Hotel Porters: A euro per bag will surely bring a smile.
- Coat Check Services: In upscale venues, tip 1 euro per item when retrieving your belongings.
- Museum Guides: If you take a guided tour, offering 1-2 euros shows appreciation for their expertise.
Conclusion
These guidelines reflect Parisian customs and can be applied throughout France. Tipping is an expression of generosity and satisfaction with the service received, enhancing your overall experience.
(Written in collaboration with Vincent Ramelli, a Paris-born expert and contributor to Paris-Eiffel-Tower-News.com)
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: The Parisian Rules of Tipping.
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