In a country where workers don't rely solely on tips, the expectation is quite different. In London, you will never be expected to tip. However, there are times when a it would be highly appreciated.
Take restaurants for example. In the States, servers live off tips. To not tip your server would be unheard of, and you can count on the fact that the staff will be ripping you apart in the back. The experience in England is vastly different. At a restaurant, there is no need to ever tip. There might be an option when you are paying your tab, but the servers are never expecting it. Some places will have a gratuity added, but even this extra charge will be much less than an average tip in the US. I have started a tradition of leaving a tip at my favorite Thai restaurant that I frequent at least once a week. After a few trips, the workers have become familiar with me and always throw in a dessert or glass of wine on the house. It has also proved useful for getting seated during the dinner rush, as they always allow me to skip to the front of the waitlist. At pubs and bars, the situation is similar. You will never be expected to tip, though there might be an option as you are paying. Don't be afraid to say no. If you have a favorite bartender and you want to show your appreciation, you can offer to buy them a drink. If you really want to give a tip, there's nothing wrong with that. As it is not a normal occurrence, the staff will likely remember you for your generosity. As you’ll read in “How to Be A Regular,” being a regular is a much better way to forge relationships at the establishments you are frequenting. When taking a cab, you will also be faced with the option to tip. Again, they will not be expected here either. Let's say you really feel the need to give your driver a little something extra, use cash instead of adding it via card payment. If the cab ride was especially long or the driver helped you carry your obnoxious amount of baggage to the door, throwing in a little extra would be a nice thing to do. On a cab ride from the airport that involved a ripped bag spilling clothing all over the trunk and a very loud phone call with certain cuss words being thrown around, I chose to tip my driver for having to witness all of my chaos. The grumpy man quickly turned into a smiling and thankful gentleman, and all it took was 10 pounds. He even threw in his business card in case I ever needed a cab in a pinch. In this sense, tipping can be a great way to buy someone's favor, as well as a positive attitude. When it comes to situations where you are receiving a service you wouldn't be able to do yourself, for example, a haircut or tattoo, adding 10% extra for the worker is a good way to show your appreciation. This is not mandatory, and you won't be spat on if you refuse. However, if the service you are receiving requires actual talent, show your gratitude. Basic human compassion is all you will be expected to provide. Save your tips for rare and special occasions (if at all) when you want to show your server a little extra love.
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