An international move is an amazing adventure. However, adjusting to life in a new country can sometimes be difficult. A “restaurant menu” knowledge of a country’s language will only get you so far, while understanding why culture exists can lead to a greater appreciation of language, your new location and a happier stay. We are taking a look at tipping etiquettes – as they can often mirror a country’s deeper cultural differences. Tipping in Germany In Germany, it is very common to round up the bill. Don’t wait until after the waiter has gone and leave change on the table. It’s seen as far more discreet and classy to tell the waiter how much to add to the bill; a reflection of Germanic appreciation for doing things right. When you pay for your bill by credit card, you may either give the tip separately in cash (which will be highly appreciated) or you can add it to the total bill. Tipping in Japan You’ve just enjoyed a fantastic meal in Tokyo, but how do you express your appreciation for the Service that you received? Well, you definitely DO NOT leave a tip! There’s no tipping culture in Japan – and leaving one may even be seen as an insult. If you are delighted with the food or drink at a Japanese restaurant or bar, consider buying a sake (a Japanese rice wine) or beer for the chef to show your appreciation. The Japanese are eager to provide a great service – especially to foreigners. Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you very much) and a sincere compliment goes a long way in any service situation. Tipping in the United States of America In the USA, waiters in restaurants often depend upon their tips to make a living – so don’t be surprised to receive warm greetings and be asked: “Is everything OK with your meal?” 18–20 percent tip is normal for good service. Americans value friendliness and speed in customer service. They also tend to leave quite soon after a meal is done, so waiters might bring the bill as soon as you say you don’t want anything else. This comes down to the American focus of moving on to the next task – so if you’d like to sit longer, just let the waiter know. Tipping in Great Britain Tipping in the United Kingdom is seen as an appreciation for good service, and 10 percent is usually sufficient. Typically Brits only tip when goods are brought to them to express appreciation for a great service. Americans may be surprised to find they don’t need to tip the bar staff. Famously obsessed with politeness, Brits don’t like to complain or make a fuss – so leaving a tip can send out a powerful message. Tipping in India India is a great example of tipping etiquette reflecting Indian culture. Tipping tends to be less about a “thank you” for a completed service and more of an investment in an ongoing series of services. You’d tip the bartender as a “thanks, please continue this level of service.” This is not a question of bribing, it’s about the value Indian culture places on relationship building. Tipping in France There do not exist any rules for tipping in France, partly because government – influenced by a history of support for workers – has taken care of it. In Paris, a 15 percent service charge is always included in the bill. It is also common to leave an extra 5-10 percent at places you frequently visit, or to recognize great food and service. By law, the service charge must be passed on to staff and be in addition to their salary. But waiters aren’t the star of the show in France – it’s the chef. Sending a message to the chef is a great way to show appreciation for the food.