Overview

• In Japan and South Korea tipping is uncommon or deemed discourteous, and in Scandinavia and Iceland service wages are factored into prices, eliminating the need for extra gratuities.
• Tourist areas in China and New Zealand accept small discretionary tips, while eateries in France and Singapore typically include 15% or 10% service fees, making additional tipping optional.
• German labor law ensures that voluntary tips legally belong to employees and remain tax-exempt when paid directly, with pooled or employer-handled gratuities requiring transparent distribution and potential taxation.
• Patrons can confirm whether a tip is expected by inspecting receipts for service-charge entries and referring to local etiquette resources to avoid missteps.
• Merchants employ subtle psychological tactics—such as including complimentary treats with bills, initiating small talk and displaying on-screen gratitude prompts—to encourage larger gratuities.