Tipping is not customary in Thailand, but it is appreciated as a way to show gratitude for good service. Unlike in some other countries, service staff in Thailand do not expect a tip, and they will not be offended if you do not leave one. However, a small tip, such as rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra coins, is always welcome. Be sure, if you to tip, to give the tip directly to the server in person.
Here are some specific tips on when and how much to tip in Thailand:
- Restaurants: In more upscale restaurants, it is customary to tip 5-10% of the bill. In more casual restaurants, a small tip of a few baht is appreciated, but not expected.
- Hotels: Tipping bellhops and housekeepers is not expected, but it is a nice gesture. A few baht per bag for the bellhop and a few baht per day for the housekeeper is a nice gesture, although not expected.
- Taxis: Tipping taxis is not required, but rounding up the fare is common.
- Massage therapists: Tipping massage therapists is customary. A tip of 50-100 baht is appropriate.
- Other service providers: You may also want to tip other service providers who go above and beyond, such as tour guides, tuk-tuk drivers, and tour operators. A small tip of a few baht is always appreciated. although not expected.
Here are some tipping etiquette tips:
- If you decide to leave a tip, the tip should always be given directly to the service provider.
- It is not customary to tip in cash at restaurants. However, a tip can make a big difference to the service providers, who are often very low paid.
- If you will be a repeat customer, the service provider may learn to expect a tip. If you are inclined to tip, make it a tip you feel comfortable repeating.
- Only tip what you are comfortable with tipping for good service, although a tip is never expected.
- Just because Thai’s do not tip, isn’t a good reason why you shouldn’t tip. Often westerners understand the plight of the low paid servers more than Thai’s. If you feel comfortable tipping, please do.
Overall, tipping is not a necessity in Thailand, but it is a nice way to show your appreciation for good service. If you are feeling generous, a small tip will be welcomed by the service provider.