Tipping Etiquette

Tipping at...

Restaurants

15 to 20 percent of the bill. If you've had expensive wine, keep it at 15 percent, but mention the bad service to the manger so you don't look like a cheapskate and the waiters performance won't go unnoticed.

The Hair Salon

Hair washer / blow-dryer: $5
Stylist / Colorist: 20 percent of the bill
Manicurist or Pedicurist: 15 percent of the bill

Bars

15 to 20 percent of the bar bill (but never less than a dollar)

Valet Parker

$2.00

Coat-Check Person

$1.00 or $2.00

Mailman

You actually aren't supposed to tip a federal employee, as it's not allowed. A small gift is acceptable.

Paper Boy

If you actually ever see him, $10.00

Hotel Bellman

$1.00 per bag, but never less than $5.00 if they've come all the way up to your room, shown you around, and told you where things are.

Hotel Maid

$2.00 per night stayed

Taxi Driver

Always round the bill up by a dollar and the change. In other words, if the cab is $5.50, leave $7.00. Once you get above about $15.00, tip 15 percent.