Calgary

Comprehensive Guide to Tipping Etiquette in Calgary, Canada

Tipping is a common and expected practice in Calgary, as it is across Canada. It is considered a way to show appreciation for good service, and many service industry workers rely on tips to supplement their income. Below is a detailed guide to tipping in various settings in Calgary, including standard percentages, procedures, and cultural considerations.

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General Overview

• Currency: The currency in Calgary is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), often represented by the symbol "$" or "C$". Coins include the $1 "loonie" and $2 "toonie," while bills come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
• Tipping Norms: Tipping is not mandatory but is strongly expected in most service industries. The standard tipping percentage is 15-20% of the total bill for good service, though this can vary depending on the situation.
• Payment Methods: Tips can be given in cash or added to the total when paying by credit or debit card. Most establishments in Calgary have a tipping option on the card payment machine.

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Tipping in Different Settings

1. Restaurants

• Standard Tip: 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for table service. If the service is exceptional, tipping closer to 20% or more is appreciated.
• Buffets: If there is minimal service (e.g., clearing plates or refilling drinks), a tip of 10% is appropriate.
• Fast Food/Takeout: Tipping is not expected for counter service or takeout, but if there is a tip jar, leaving some loose change or rounding up is a kind gesture.
• How to Tip: When paying by card, the payment terminal will prompt you to select a tip percentage or enter a custom amount. For cash payments, leave the tip on the table or hand it directly to the server.

2. Bars and Pubs

• Standard Tip: $1-2 per drink is common, or 15-20% of the total bill if you are running a tab.
• Bartender Service: If the bartender provides exceptional service (e.g., crafting a complex cocktail or engaging in friendly conversation), tipping on the higher end of the range is appreciated.
• How to Tip: You can leave cash in the tip jar or add the tip to your card payment.

3. Taxis and Rideshares (e.g., Uber, Lyft)

• Standard Tip: 10-15% of the fare is customary. For short rides or exceptional service (e.g., helping with luggage or navigating difficult traffic), tipping closer to 15% is recommended.
• How to Tip: For taxis, you can tip in cash or add it to the total when paying by card. For rideshares, the app will prompt you to leave a tip after the ride is completed.

4. Hotels

• Bellhops/Porters: Tip $2-5 per bag for assistance with luggage.
• Housekeeping: Leave $2-5 per night in cash in your room, preferably with a note indicating it is for housekeeping.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides a special service (e.g., securing hard-to-get reservations or tickets), tipping $10-20 is appropriate.
• Valet Parking: Tip $5-10 when your car is returned to you.
• How to Tip: Tips for hotel staff are typically given in cash.

5. Spas and Salons

• Standard Tip: 15-20% of the total bill for services such as massages, facials, haircuts, or manicures.
• How to Tip: You can leave cash or add the tip to your card payment. Some spas and salons may include a gratuity option on their payment terminals.

6. Tour Guides and Group Activities

• Standard Tip: For group tours, tipping $5-10 per person is common. For private tours, tipping 10-20% of the total cost is appropriate.
• How to Tip: Tips are usually given in cash directly to the guide.

7. Delivery Services

• Food Delivery: Tip 10-15% of the total bill, with a minimum of $5 for smaller orders.
• Grocery Delivery: Tip $5-10, or more if the delivery involves heavy lifting or multiple trips.
• How to Tip: You can tip in cash or through the app used to place the order.

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Unique Local Considerations

1. Sales Tax: In Alberta (the province where Calgary is located), there is no provincial sales tax, only the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5%. This means your pre-tax bill will be closer to the final total compared to other provinces with higher taxes.
2. Cultural Norms: Canadians are generally polite and value good service. While tipping is not legally required, failing to tip in situations where it is expected may be seen as rude or inconsiderate.
3. Service Charges: Some restaurants or establishments may include a service charge for large groups (usually 6 or more people). If this is the case, additional tipping is not necessary unless you feel the service was exceptional.

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Practical Tips for Visitors

• Carry Small Bills and Coins: Having small denominations of cash on hand makes tipping easier, especially in situations like taxis or for hotel staff.
• Check the Payment Terminal: When paying by card, the terminal will often display suggested tip percentages (e.g., 15%, 18%, 20%). You can select one of these options or enter a custom amount.
• Be Prepared for Cashless Tipping: Many services, such as rideshares and food delivery apps, allow you to tip digitally. Ensure your payment method is set up for this.
• Ask Locals if Unsure: If you’re uncertain about tipping in a specific situation, don’t hesitate to ask locals or staff for guidance.

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By following these guidelines, you’ll not only show appreciation for good service but also align with Calgary’s cultural norms. Tipping is a small gesture that goes a long way in ensuring a positive experience for both you and the service providers.