Different countries have varying customs concerning how and who to tip. In some countries, it is considered rude to tip people for doing their jobs whereas tipping is allowed and/or expected in other climes. So, if you are going to Thailand, you may be wondering whether it is rude to tip people or not.
As mentioned by Trip Advisor members, it is not rude to tip various service providers in Thailand, but you are not mandated or expected to tip to anyone at any time. Besides, it is not a part of the custom of Thai service providers to expect customers to tip them. Also, if you want to tip people in Thailand, you can give any amount that you want.
Although you don’t have to tip workers in Thailand, many people usually like it whenever they are tipped. Therefore, you will be appreciated if you tip anyone in Thailand, but don’t feel obligated to do so. Nonetheless, there are some important considerations you must know about tipping in this Southeast Asian country.
Who should you tip or not tip in Thailand?
When you are in Thailand, you are not expected to tip everyone that renders services or sells products to you. Factually, some people in rural areas might be surprised after receiving a tip. As a result of this, some people in Thailand will reject any tip offered. Therefore, you need to know the sellers or service providers that will likely accept a tip in Thailand.
So, let’s take a look at the following sellers/service providers and determine whether you should tip them or not.
- Street food vendors
You will likely come across street food vendors during your stay in Thailand. So, you may want to tip them after buying food from them. However, for many street food vendors, tipping is unusual. You may be tempted to tell a vendor to keep the change, but they will likely reject it. Many of them will insist that you should pay the exact cost of the food.
Therefore, after buying food from street vendors in Thailand, you should just pay and collect your change if necessary. Don’t bother to tip street food vendors in the country.
- High-street and posh restaurants
When compared to street food vendors, high-street and posh restaurants are relatively different. This is because the staff that will attend to your needs in these restaurants are usually not the owners. Unfortunately, most of these workers are grossly underpaid, but you are not responsible for paying them. However, if you tip them, they will appreciate it. So, consider tipping employees at restaurants.
- Bars
Tipping in bars is a bit different from other options. Although most of the bartenders will appreciate getting a tip from customers, you need to utilize your discretions here. If you are at the bar for some minutes to take one or two bottles, there is no need to tip anyone.
However, the situation will be different if you are drinking and enjoying a good time with your friends at the bar for several hours. In such a case, you can just tip the staff of the bar any reasonable amount you can afford.
- Hotel staff
Porters, housekeepers, bellhops, service people, etc. are usually helpful when staying in a hotel. Therefore, tipping them is highly recommended.
- Masseuses
If you are using the services of a masseuse, you should consider tipping her. Many of them rely on these tips to augment their earnings and take care of their bills. So, don’t hesitate to tip them.
- Taxi drivers
As noted by Trip Savvy, tipping drivers is a bit tricky. Sometimes, drivers will take advantage of you and overcharge you for a ride. Therefore, in such an instance, tipping the driver will only worsen the situation. Before getting a ride, understand how much it should normally cost. Then, agree on a fair taxi rate with the driver.
If you are convinced that you are getting a good deal, you can tip the driver by rounding up the cab fare. For example, if the agreed fare is 43 Baht, you can pay the driver 50 Baht. The additional 7 Baht can be considered a tip.
- Tour guides
Are you enjoying a guided tour with several other individuals? If yes, you don’t need to bother about tipping the tour guide. But if you are on the guided tour alone or with a few friends/family, there is no issue with tipping the tour guide.
How much do you tip in Thailand?
Now, this is another essential thing you need to consider when tipping people in Thailand. Generally, there is no rule for determining the exact tip amount. But you should think about tipping about 10 to 20% of your bill. In other words, if you have paid 600 Baht for good food at a restaurant, you can tip about 60 to 120 Baht. Most service providers will appreciate such a tip.
While this percent is good, you don’t necessarily have to follow it. You can give more or less to anyone. Just make sure that you can afford any amount you want to tip.
In addition, you should consider tipping people with some dignity. Don’t tip as if you are doing them special favor. You must make sure that you accompany the tip with a lovely smile.
Use your discretion to decide what you want
At the end of the day, tipping is a personal thing in Thailand. In this country, people are usually protective of their good names and dignities. So, no one will ask or expect you to tip them for doing their jobs. Therefore, you must utilize your judgment to decide whether you should tip someone or not.
In conclusion, tipping is not considered rude in Thailand as lots of service providers will happily accept it from customers. However, tipping is more common for some services than others. But if anyone rejects your tip in Thailand, don’t feel offended by it as it is not a part of the custom of Thai people.
