Should I Tip, or Shouldn’t I?
Paying Gratuity in South Africa
Tipping after you have finished a delicious meal in a restaurant is optional but considered a common courtesy amongst diners as means of thanking your waitron for their service.
Though it varies among cultures, it would be a serious “faux pas” if you did not tip after the poor person has been at your beck and call during a 3 hour long meal, had by you and your guests. This would leave a bad taste in your mouth, if you were in their position.
Here in sunny South Africa it is customary to pay a tip that would equate 10 percent of your bill.
For example if your bill came to R200 roughly, you would pay a R20 tip, if you do feel that the service was excellent you can tip as much as you feel fit and fare.
Waiters and waitresses here do receive a small salary but rely quite a bit on tipping. It is not easy to know what is expected of you when visiting a foreign country but hopefully this piece has helped you get a basic understanding of small things that could mean a lot to the local serving you.