Hotel etiquette around the world
Tipping, dress codes and local customs in the countries we cover.
Tipping at a glance
- Japan: not practised.
- United States: 18 to 22% in restaurants; a few dollars per bag.
- United Kingdom: 10 to 12.5%, often already on the bill.
- France and Italy: service included; rounding up is a courtesy.
- Safari lodges: gratuities for guides and staff are customary.
Dress codes
Grand city hotels often expect smart dress in the evening, and some Alpine palaces still ask men to wear jackets at dinner. Resorts are relaxed, but swimwear belongs at the pool.
Religious sites
Cover shoulders and knees at churches, temples and mosques. Remove shoes where you see others do so.
Photography
Ask before photographing people, especially in Morocco, the Middle East and among the Maasai. At Uluṟu, some sacred sites must not be photographed at all.