For What It's Worth: Tipping

WSVN -- Whether it's a first-rate restaurant or the neighborhood barber shop, there's one thing that leaves a lot of us stumped when it comes time to pay the bill, not knowing how much to tip.

Jon Stott: "I think it should be completely optional what you want to tip. It's all dependent on the service, the person who's serving you."

Diego Wisman: "I see them, it's the suggested rate that they give you, but I just use my own instincts on the tipping."

And even though we may usually have a good idea of how much cash to leave behind, we can still manage to get in to some sticky situations.

Jon Stott: "Taxis, especially taxis. If they're really friendly and personable, ask where you're from, something like that, I'll give them a good tip."

Seven's Financial Expert Allie Jablon says no matter how money savvy you are, it's good to know the rules of tipping before you take to the street.

Allie Jablon, Seven News Financial Expert: "Sometimes when we're taken out of our normal routines, tipping can really become a challenge."

The first pitfall that could leave you fumbling for change? Using that gift certificate or coupon at your favorite restaurant.

Allie says remember to always tip on the original price of the meal.

Allie Jablon: "If you have a coupon for 20 percent off at a restaurant, and your bill comes to $30, you want to always tip on that $30, not what the price is after you'd reduced it 20 percent."

Next, everyone loves getting a friendly server, but what about when that waiter or waitress leaves more than a little something to be desired? Don't just walk out without leaving a tip. Instead, talk to the boss.

Allie Jablon: "Speak with the manager about the poor service and correct the problem from the root of the issue. By doing so, you prevent the future customer from getting bad service."

And what about those pesky tip jars sitting next to the register? Allie says give if you want, but don't feel obligated to pitch in.

Allie Jablon: "If you're at a coffee shop and you see a tip jar, don't feel pressured into adding to the tip jar when no service was provided other than what goes on behind the counter."

Finally, vacations are supposed to be worry-free, especially if you're sailing on the high seas, so make sure you bring enough cash to cover those tips.

Allie Jablon: "Down here in South Florida, many of us choose to go on cruises for our vacations, so when you do, expect to budget about $20 per day in tips."

If you're resting up at a plush hotel, don't forget to tip the housekeeping.

Allie Jablon: "You can expect to tip between $1 to $5 per night's stay, and it's best to leave that money on your pillowcase. The housekeepers will know that it's for them."

Craig Stevens: "Another tip: Allie says it's still customary to tip your barber or hair stylist between 10 and 20 percent for a cut, but don't forget about the person behind the sink. Make sure to leave a couple of extra dollars for the person who gave you that great shampoo."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Allie Jablon
http://www.alliejablon.com/