Canadians are feeling the pressure to tip everywhere – even if the service is minimal.
A new global tipping map by Hellosafe shows that Canadian workers are second in the world when it comes to expecting a hefty tip.
Canada came just behind the United States, where tipping expectations average 20%.
Canadian workers expect customers to tip anywhere between 15% to 20% in restaurants. Third place was Mexico, where a 15% tip is expected.
“Whether it’s to express satisfaction with a tasty meal in a restaurant, a pleasant night in a hotel or exceptional service in a taxi, tipping is common practice in many countries around the world,” said HelloSafe spokesperson Nolwenn Abolivier.
These findings are based on a comprehensive review incorporating data from tip guides on TripAdvisor and other travel websites.
Tipping culture often reflects societal norms and economic factors, with gratuities frequently serving as a significant supplement to workers’ incomes.
In the United States, for instance, where wages for service workers can be comparatively low, tips often constitute a substantial portion of their earnings, especially for waiters.
“Tipping is also required in countries such as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates: around 10 to 15% of the bill,” wrote Abolivier.
On the other hand, tipping is considered to be rude in Asian countries, especially China, where wealth displays like tipping are frowned upon by locals.
As for Japan, waiters could consider it rude when somebody tips because they expect the service to be a part of the bill.
Meanwhile, in Europe, some restaurants include a gratuity fee or service charges on the final bill.
