Tipping customs can vary from country to country and even from one establishment to another.
In Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, tipping is not as common or expected as it is in some Western countries.
Still, it is becoming more customary in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Here are some general guidelines for tipping in Hanoi:
Restaurants:
Tipping in restaurants is not mandatory in Vietnam, but it is appreciated.
If you receive good service and want to tip, you can round up the bill or leave a small amount as a tip, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.
In more upscale or tourist-oriented restaurants, it’s more common to tip, and the service staff may expect it.
Hotels:
Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops, doorkeepers, and housekeeping, is not mandatory but is appreciated.
You can tip a small amount for good service.
In some high-end hotels, service charges may be included, so check before tipping.
Tour guides and drivers:
If you take guided tours or use the services of a driver, it is customary to tip them as a sign of appreciation for their services.
The amount can vary based on the quality of service, but it’s expected to tip around 5-10% of the tour or service cost.
Taxi drivers:
Tipping taxi drivers is not a common practice in Hanoi. You can round up the fare, but it’s unexpected.
Other services:
For other services like spa treatments or salon services, tipping may be appreciated, but it’s not always expected.
A small tip or rounding up the bill is generally sufficient.
| Service | Tipping Etiquette |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5-10% of the bill for good service |
| Hotels | Small tips for staff like bellhops and housekeeping |
| Tour Guides & Drivers | Around 5-10% of the tour cost for good service |
| Taxi Drivers | Tipping is not common |
| Other Services (e.g., haircuts) | Not every day, but it would be appreciated if you want to tip |
| Payment Method | Local currency (Vietnamese dong) is preferred, but USD may be accepted in some places. |
| Carry Cash | Handy for small expenses, but cards are widely accepted in urban areas |
It’s important to note that tipping practices can change over time, and they may vary depending on the specific establishment and the level of service received.
It’s a good idea to check with locals or ask your hotel for guidance on tipping customs in Hanoi during your visit.
Always remember that tipping should be a gesture of appreciation, and it should not be a source of stress or confusion during your travels.
FAQs
Here are a few common questions about tipping in Hanoi:
How much do you tip in Hanoi?
Tipping in Hanoi varies but is generally around 5-10% of the bill for good service.
Is tipping common in Hanoi?
Tipping is not as common as in Western countries but is increasingly expected in tourist-oriented areas.
Do you tip for a haircut in Vietnam?
Tipping for haircuts in Vietnam is not common but appreciated if you want to show gratitude.
Is it rude not to tip in Vietnam?
It’s not considered rude not to tip, but it’s a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Who should you tip in Vietnam?
You can tip restaurant staff, tour guides, and hotel personnel for good service.
Should you carry cash in Vietnam?
Carrying some cash is advisable for small expenses, but cards are widely accepted in urban areas.
Is it best to take cash to Vietnam?
It’s a good idea to have some local currency, but you can use cards for many transactions.
Do you tip taxi drivers in Vietnam?
Tipping taxi drivers is not common in Vietnam.
Can you tip in USD in Vietnam?
Tipping in the local currency (Vietnamese dong) is preferred, but USD may be accepted in some tourist areas.
Do I need cash in Hanoi?
Cash is handy for small purchases and transportation, but cards are accepted in many places in Hanoi.
To sum up
Tipping is not mandatory in Hanoi, but it’s becoming more common and expected in the hospitality and tourism industry.
If you receive good service, you can show your appreciation by rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip.
Always remember that tipping should be a gesture of gratitude, and it’s up to your discretion on whether or not to tip based on the level of service received.
It’s always a good idea to check with locals or your hotel for guidance on tipping customs during your visit.
Enjoy your trip to Hanoi! 🙂
