abaya

Hi, I'm an American (when I feel like it). I worked as a waitress from age 14-17 at my parents' restaurant--no hourly wage to speak of, so ALL I took home were tips, and that was my sole spending money throughout high school. And still, I have never, in my life, even considered paying 20% as a tip to ANYONE in the service industry, whatsoever. 10-15%, and that's not gonna change.

I agree with you for the most part, Shani. I've been living in a country where it isn't done, ever, for anything... and it's the most liberating feeling at the end of a meal or haircut or whatever, to just pay the amount stated on the menu, and walk out. No calculations, no hemming and hawing, no nothing.

However, I will mention a downside. The service is SHIT... because their wages are set, and they don't care WHAT you think of their level of courtesy, the quality of the food, or anything. They're just there to shuffle the food around and charge your card, because they have no personal vested interest in kissing ass so that they can make a living wage.

So, I don't know which is worse. When in the US, I tip like an average American (not 20%!) and expect some half-decent service. When in Iceland, the concept of a "tip" buries itself in the back of my brain, and I am quite happy about that... but I still get frustrated with the piss-poor service, and start missing the tip motivation in other countries. Go figure.

__________________
And think not you can direct the course of Love;
for Love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.
--Khalil Gibran