Victoria

General Overview of Tipping in Victoria, Canada

Tipping is customary in Victoria, as it is across Canada, and is considered a way to show appreciation for good service. While tipping is not legally required, it is socially expected in many service industries. The standard tipping percentage is generally between 15% and 20% of the pre-tax bill, depending on the quality of service. In some cases, tipping may be included in the bill (e.g., for large groups), so it’s important to check before adding a gratuity.

---

Tipping Customs by Category

1. Restaurants and Cafes

• Standard Tip: 15%–20% of the pre-tax total is customary for sit-down restaurants with table service.
• Exceptional Service: If the service is outstanding, tipping closer to 20% or more is appreciated.
• Buffets: For buffet-style restaurants, tipping around 10%–15% is common, especially if staff clear plates or provide drink refills.
• Fast Food and Coffee Shops: Tipping is not expected at fast food outlets, but many coffee shops and casual eateries have tip jars or electronic tipping options. Leaving a small tip (e.g., $1–$2 or rounding up) is appreciated but not mandatory.
• Group Dining: For groups of 6 or more, some restaurants may automatically add a gratuity (usually 18%) to the bill. Check your receipt to avoid double-tipping.

How to Tip:

• If paying by card, most payment terminals will prompt you to add a tip (e.g., 15%, 18%, 20%, or a custom amount).
• If paying cash, leave the tip on the table or hand it directly to the server.

---

2. Bars and Pubs

• Bartenders: It’s customary to tip $1–$2 per drink or 15%–20% of the total bill if you’re running a tab.
• Table Service: If you’re seated and served by a server, follow the same tipping guidelines as restaurants (15%–20%).
• Happy Hour: Tipping is still expected during discounted drink hours, based on the pre-discount price.

---

3. Taxis and Rideshares

• Standard Tip: 10%–15% of the fare is customary for taxi drivers and rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.
• Exceptional Service: Tip closer to 15% if the driver helps with luggage, provides a smooth ride, or is particularly friendly.
• Short Rides: For very short trips, rounding up to the nearest dollar or adding $1–$2 is acceptable.

How to Tip:

• For taxis, you can tip in cash or add it to the credit card payment.
• For rideshares, tipping is done through the app after the ride is completed.

---

4. Hotels

• Bellhops/Porters: Tip $2–$5 per bag they assist with, depending on the level of service.
• Housekeeping: Leave $2–$5 per night in cash in your room, preferably in an envelope or with a note indicating it’s for housekeeping.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides a special service (e.g., booking hard-to-get reservations or tickets), tipping $10–$20 is a nice gesture.
• Valet Parking: Tip $5–$10 when your car is returned to you.

How to Tip:

• Cash is preferred for most hotel staff, as electronic tipping options are not always available.

---

5. Tour Guides and Activity Providers

• Group Tours: Tip $5–$10 per person for half-day tours and $10–$20 per person for full-day tours.
• Private Tours: Tip 10%–20% of the tour cost, depending on the quality of the experience.
• Boat Tours/Whale Watching: For popular activities in Victoria like whale watching, tipping the crew $10–$20 per person is appreciated.

How to Tip:

• Cash is the most common method, but some tour companies may allow electronic tips.

---

6. Spas and Salons

• Standard Tip: 15%–20% of the total service cost is customary for hairstylists, massage therapists, estheticians, and other spa professionals.
• Exceptional Service: Tip closer to 20% for outstanding service or if the provider goes above and beyond.

How to Tip:

• If paying by card, most payment terminals will prompt you to add a tip.
• Cash tips are also widely accepted and appreciated.

---

7. Delivery Services

• Food Delivery: Tip 10%–15% of the total bill, or a minimum of $5 for smaller orders.
• Grocery Delivery: Tip $5–$10, depending on the size of the order and the effort involved.
• Furniture/Appliance Delivery: Tip $10–$20 per person, especially if the delivery involves heavy lifting or assembly.

How to Tip:

• Cash is preferred, but many delivery apps (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats) allow you to tip electronically.

---

Preferred Methods of Tipping

• Cash: Cash is always appreciated and often preferred, especially for hotel staff, tour guides, and delivery drivers.
• Electronic Tipping: In restaurants, cafes, and other businesses with card payment systems, electronic tipping is very common. Payment terminals typically prompt you to select a tip percentage or enter a custom amount.
• Apps: For rideshares and food delivery, tipping through the app is standard.

---

Additional Considerations

1. Taxes and Tipping: In Canada, sales tax (GST/PST) is added to most bills. Tipping is calculated on the pre-tax amount, not the total after tax.
2. Cultural Norms: Tipping is seen as a reflection of the quality of service. While it’s not mandatory, failing to tip in situations where it’s expected may be considered rude.
3. Service Charges: Some establishments may include a service charge in the bill, especially for large groups. If this is the case, additional tipping is not necessary unless you wish to reward exceptional service.
4. Currency: Tips should be given in Canadian dollars (CAD). If you’re visiting from another country, ensure you have some local currency on hand for cash tips.

---

Summary Table of Tipping Guidelines

| Category | Standard Tip | Exceptional Service | |--------------------------|------------------------------------|----------------------------------| | Restaurants | 15%–20% of pre-tax bill | 20%+ | | Bars | $1–$2 per drink or 15%–20% | 20%+ | | Taxis/Rideshares | 10%–15% of fare | 15%+ | | Hotels (Bellhops) | $2–$5 per bag | $5+ per bag | | Hotels (Housekeeping) | $2–$5 per night | $5+ per night | | Tour Guides | $5–$10 per person (group tours) | $10–$20 per person | | Spas/Salons | 15%–20% of service cost | 20%+ | | Food Delivery | 10%–15% of bill or $5 minimum | 15%+ |

---

By following these guidelines, you’ll show appreciation for good service and align with local customs in Victoria, Canada. If in doubt, err on the side of generosity, as tipping is an important part of the income for many service workers.