Tipping Pointers

I have a general rule, never tip anyone less than a buck. I don't care if it's a bartender who poured you a soda, and Albuquerque cab driver, or the kid that delivers your Sunday paper. Two shiny quarters may have been generous back in 1952, but today they won't even buy your a cup of coffee. Many people in the service industry make less than minimum wage because they rely on tips. Hook 'em up!

  With that said, I don't think it's necessary to give a dollar every time your get a venti-triple-half-caff-nonfat-sugar-free-vanilla-cappu-latte. Tip jars are optional and should be used when you've received exceptional service.

Here are some general rules of thumb:

Waitstaff:  15% for average service; 18% for very good service; 20% for exceptional.

Bartenders: $1 a drink for sodas, beer, and basic drinks; $2 for more elaborate concoctions.

Coat Check: $1 per item.

Hairstylist: 15% for a good job; 20% if you love your new 'do.

Manicurist/pedicurist: 15%

Massage Therapist/Facialist: 15% for a good massage; 20% for a great one.

Driver (taxi or car service): 15% for good service; 20% if driver helped with bags, opened doors, etc.

Valet Parking: $3 upon retrieval of your car-slip him at least $5 when handing over your car if you want to make sure your Porsche doesn't get scratched.  

If you have an IPhone here is an App that you can download to calculate your tips for you!