Towncar/Tipping question

[kerri0616]

Dear all:

Just checking how you handle this. After our driver drops us at the hotel, I will pay him in full $90. I also want to tip him at least 20%. So assuming I pay in full and tip him nicely, when he takes us back to the airport, is it okay if I give him nothing? If I decide to split the tip between the two trips, he might think I'm just a cheap tipper.

What should I do?

Kerri

 

[k&a&c'smom]

We always split the tip, as you may not have the same driver on your way back. The drivers expect this, so it won't seem like you're cheap. You have, in fact, given them 20% for the half of the trip they have completed. (i.e., you pay for the whole trip up front, when in reality they have only driven you the $45 portion of it.)

 

[maine_jennifer]

How do I handle it?

I pay the fare plus 10% gratuity when they drop me at the hotel.

I pay the remaining 10% gratuity when they pull me screaming and kicking out of the back of their vehicle and force me into the airport to go home.

They will not think you're cheap! As k&a&c'smom mentioned, it's best to do it this way just in case you don't have the same driver both ways.

Cheers!

 

[Lewisc]

Giving your driver half the tip at your arrival at your hotel is normal. Otherwise you'd be in the position of either stiffing the second driver or giving a total tip of 30% for your R/T.

If a driver even hints that you're being cheap speak up, there is a good chance the driver is trying to either rip you off or rip off your return driver.

The only exception might be if you're charging a tip. I'd check with the company first and then make a point of telling your return driver the tip was pre-paid on a credit card and that he should make sure the company doesn't stiff him. I'd rather just tip with cash.

 

[DebbieB]

I would tip $10 each way separately, assuming good service.