Tipping :

In recognition of the good service from tour guides, drivers, skycaps, waiters or bellhops, tipping which was once frowned upon has become gradually accepted as common practice in China as elsewhere in the world. In most Chinese cities but especially the internationalized metropolis of Hong Kong and Macau, tipping is very common. Actually, it is not a must but will be greatly appreciated by Chinese. Since tipping is a personal matter, please do not feel uneasy about it. What or when you choose to tip depends entirely on how you rate a service but you are not under any obligation to do so.

Tipping frequently occurs when you are in a tour group, superior hotel, restaurant, train station and airport or somewhere else you can enjoy service. Remember that it is not necessary to tip in roadside eateries or snack stalls. Sometimes the bill in some of the places or cities may have already included about 5% - 15% service charge. Another way, in which you can express your appreciation of service from your tour guide or driver, is a small gift such as foreign cigarettes, wine, candies, hats or T-shirts, even a lipstick or nail polish.

Although tipping is not required, gratuities may improve service. For the bellboys or waiters, 1 - 5 US dollars may be appropriate as the tip. If you are uncertain about how much to give, just to tip based on your bill. Generally, 10% - 15% of the bill is the most proper amount. For the tour guide and the driver, 1 - 10 US dollars a day per person is adequate.