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Tipping at a Bed and Breakfast: Yes or No?
By Kathy Steinemann
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Many North American bed and breakfast inns have a 'no tipping' policy. Other countries vary. This article will help to clear up any confusion. Many North American bed and breakfast inns have a 'no tipping' policy. Other countries vary. Before you arrive, check with innkeepers about their specific tipping procedures. If you feel a bit nervous about talking to them directly, contact the local chamber of commerce or tourist information center. If tipping is not encouraged, pack some small gifts before you go. Here are a few gift ideas: Try to steer away from gender-specific gifts, garish colors, food items, or anything you might not be able to clear through customs. Also avoid 'joke' gifts or catchy slogans. What may be a joke to you may offend someone else, or it may be misunderstood by a non-English speaking person. Make sure that the items are of good quality and always, always, always tasteful. If your chosen bed and breakfast has a guestbook, be certain to leave complete details of your satisfaction (or dissatisfaction). If poor service has been a problem in an inn that encourages tipping, discuss your dissatisfaction with the owners and/or managers, even if you feel motivated to leave a smaller tip. At some inns, the tip will be calculated automatically - so your discussion is your only line of defense. Housekeeping staff are hired by owners - and tipping them for good service is always a good idea. Use the same guidelines that you would at a hotel. Most services would be suitably covered by a tip in the $1-$5 range. Use common sense. (c) Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is free to publish only if this copyright notice, the byline, and the author's note below (with active links) are included. About the Author: Searching for a bed and breakfast, hotel, or hostel? Visit 111 Travel Directory. Trying to find some great travel tips? Surf over to 1000 Tips 4 Trips. Seeking romantic getaway resources? Adult Escapes can help! Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com) More free articles: 1st Rate Articles - 1stRateArticles.com |
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