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Tipping in LA: A Minefield of Benjamins
So, you're headed to the City of Angels, huh? Get ready to dodge paparazzi and traffic jams. But before you worry about bumping into a Kardashian, let's talk about something equally terrifying: tipping.
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How Much Do You Tip In Los Angeles |
Tipping: The Fine Art of Dollar Diplomacy
Tipping in LA is like trying to navigate a maze blindfolded while juggling chainsaws. It's a delicate dance between generosity and bankruptcy. If you tip too little, you risk being labeled a cheapskate. Too much, and you might as well hand over your firstborn.
The Golden Rule: For most places, 15-20% is the standard. But remember, this is LA, where people get Botox injections in their eyebrows. So, if your server is particularly dazzling, feel free to go higher. Just don't expect them to date you.
Where to Drop Those Dimes
- Restaurants: Your trusty waiter or waitress is the classic tipping target. As mentioned, 15-20% is usually the play. But if your food comes with a side of attitude, feel free to adjust accordingly.
- Bars: Tipping your bartender is like buying insurance for your next round. A dollar or two per drink is standard, but if they're making you a craft cocktail that requires more effort than a brain surgeon, feel free to up the ante.
- Hotels: Tipping in hotels is like playing Russian roulette with your luggage. You tip the bellhop, the concierge, the room service guy, and probably the guy who waters the plants in the lobby. Aim for $2-5 per service.
- Other Random People: LA is full of people who expect tips for doing the bare minimum. Valet parking, hairdressers, and even the guy who hands you your takeout order might have their palms outstretched. It's up to you to decide if their services are worth your hard-earned cash.
Tipping Survival Tips
- Carry cash: Most places will let you tip with a card, but having some cash on hand is always a good idea.
- Do the math: If you're bad at math, bring a calculator. Or just tip 20% and call it a day.
- Don't be afraid to ask: If you're unsure how much to tip, politely ask a local. They'll probably laugh at you, but at least you'll know.
How to...
- How to avoid looking like a cheapskate: Tip generously, but not excessively.
- How to calculate a tip quickly: Double the tax.
- How to decide if a tip is necessary: If you feel like you received exceptional service, a tip is always appreciated.
- How to handle bad service: You don't have to tip if you're unhappy with the service.
- How to survive tipping in LA: Bring a lot of money.