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Tipping, or ‘bahsis’ as it’s known in Turkey, is more than just a monetary gesture; it’s a sign of appreciation for good service. But when you’re a traveller in a new country, understanding when, who, and how much to tip can be a tad confusing.
So, let’s unravel the mystery of tipping etiquette in Turkey to ensure you’ve got it down pat for your next Turkish adventure.
Tipping in Restaurants
In most restaurants and cafes, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is standard if you’re satisfied with the service. However, it’s essential to check if a service charge has already been included in the bill. If so, an additional tip is optional but appreciated. At casual street eateries, rounding up to the nearest lira is a common practice.
Tipping in Hotels
Hotel tipping in Turkey varies based on the service. For bellboys or porters, a tip of around 50-200 Turkish Lira (TRY) per bag is common. Housekeeping staff usually expect around 100 TRY per day, left at the end of your stay. If a concierge provides excellent service, such as securing a reservation at a popular restaurant, a tip of 100-200 TRY is appreciated.
Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers
If you’re taking guided tours or using private transportation services in Turkey, tipping your tour guides and drivers is customary. For tour guides, a tip of around 100 to 200 Turkish Liras per person per day is a good guideline, depending on the quality of the service and the size of the group. Similarly, for drivers, a tip of around 50 to 100 Turkish Liras per person per day is a common practice.
Other Tipping Situations
In addition to restaurants, hotels, and tour services, there may be other instances where tipping is appropriate in Turkey. For example, if you receive exceptional service from a taxi driver, you can round up the fare as a gesture of appreciation. Similarly, if you visit a spa or salon and are pleased with the service, leaving a small tip is a thoughtful gesture.
At hamams and spas, a tip of 10-20% of the total cost is standard, given directly to the masseur or therapist. Remember, good service is a personal judgment, and tipping should reflect your level of satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Remember, tipping in Turkey is not mandatory but is appreciated, reflecting the quality of service received. Also, try to tip in cash and the local currency, as it goes directly to the person you intend to reward.
In Turkey, where hospitality is deeply ingrained in the culture, your gratuity is a symbol of your appreciation, contributing to the tradition of thanking those who have made your experience memorable. So, when you venture out to explore the captivating landscapes, rich history, and culinary delights of Turkey, you’ll be well-versed in the local customs of gratuity.
Last updated on February 29, 2024
