PBH / Colombia / Forums (active) Travelguide Cheap hostels Pictures

Tipping in Colombia

There was an interesting thread from Brians (http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/post/trip-report2/) which, as usual ;-), went off-topic, but where some interesting comments about tipping were posted.

Instead of continuing to hijack Brians' thread on his original report trip, I thought I'd start a new one about tipping in Colombia (although I'm sure it has been covered). Hence a few thoughts:

1) I NEVER tip taxis as I always "negotiate" the fare with them before hand. Is this unbecoming? In France; and probably in the US too, you're supposed to give them 15% of the fare...

2) Restaurants and hotels are a problem... Most of those waiters get a rough deal - some of them are working for 15K a day... Some of my bills include a "voluntary" tip which I'm free NOT to pay. Most of my bills don't include anything...

I always thought, for some unexplained reason, that 15% appeared to be "fair". Is this indeed fair? In the Prado Hotel in Barranquilla (my favorite watering hole because of their swimming pool), the service is normally added at the bottom of the bill (and the customer always has the right NOT to pay or even alter it). Yet, a few weeks ago, I was there on my own and ordered a fruit juice. The bill came to 2K and, for once, the service was NOT included in the tag. I thus gave the waiter 2500 pesos (that is 25% tip).

The waiter refused my tip!

When I discussed this with Nelly, she told this was to be expected. The waiter got apparently offended because I only gave him a tip of 500 pesos (although this represented 25% of the original tag). Apparently, you don't tip 500 pesos in Colombia (except maybe the youngsters at the supermakets tills who put your purchases in plastic bags). As Nelly told me "Colombians have got their pride". Hmmmm, misplaced pride?

Also, who are the persons you are supposed to tip in Colombian ? Do you tip barbers? We never tip our in-house muchacha - should we? What am I missing?

By Darloup on Nov 8, 2009, 08:33 in Friendly Talkzone.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 08:53:

Brians is I am sure a top drawer geezer, but ought to recognise that the USA is the only country in the world (that I know of) where staff are intentionally underpaid and make the bulk of their income from tips, OK I guess cruise liners too.

I don't think it is reasonable to come to Colombia, throw dollars at maids and waiters and accuse the rest of us of being mezquinos when we are simply adjusted to local customs.

OK maybe in an international hotel it is not unreasonable to give a tip, but in the rest of society you are outbidding the locals which has a detrimental effect. For example, in Vilnius and Riga, it is virtually impossible for a local to get a taxi because the capitals are full of weekenders from Western Europe that are throwing their Euros about.

Coming to Colombia and doing what the locals do is far more respectful of local customs, good service in a restaurant deserves a tip, really good service in a restaurant deserves a better tip, but it is not right to come over and start a tipping culture where one doesn't exist. e.g. hairdressers and taxis. Whilst the odd dollar here or there may not be too much trouble for the international traveller coming for 2 days to look at property and give elSapo a backrub, sure it is a big deal for the natives that also have to use the same services

2 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 08:54:

I hate the whole concept of tipping, give everyone a fare wage and be done with tipping all together.

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 08:58:

BK
how amny people YOU give a fare wage and job?

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 08:59:

johnny I agree with you, the problem is that "Los mal acostumbran" look at those guys who work at the airport in Bogota, the ones who take your suitcases out, give them 3000 COP or even 5 and they look at you, like if they are going to kill you. They are used to to foreigner tipping them 10.000 cop or more y eso no es asi, no señor!

my mum never tipped her in house muchacha either why? she is being pay

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:04:

I agree 110% with you Johnny 2009.

The problem appears to be that Colombia is catching fast on the "tip" international culture.

Whilst I agree that Colombian hairdressers and taxis are now borderline, the fact remains that most Colombian restaurants now include "service" on their bill.

Maybe there is a difference between "tip" and "service"?

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

0 funny, 1 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:06:

I think evrybody should value a good service with a good tip in his posibilities. That´s apush for them to do it the same way or better the next time and the lazy ones get a push to get better to get more money.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Saltador says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:17:

I usually always tip in restaurants, as long as the service was ok, 15% minimum. Also, someone once told me that the tip they put on the bill may not necessarily make it to the person who was waiting on you.
Taxis I hardly ever tip, unless it's just to let them keep the small change.
Maids and such I will tip if the service was good.
Agree with Nelly that the 500 peso tip was too small, in that situation I'd either give them some paper or nothing at all.
Kat is right about the airport, I remember an early trip to CTG and I reluctantly let one of those guys help me with my bag. I asked my friend (who was colombian) how much I should tip him, my friend said 2000-3000 pesos. When I gave the guy 3000 pesos he looked at it like I gave him a handful of mierda.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:21:

It is also about class, throwing your new money around is frankly crass, distasteful and ugly. Those of us that descend from the landed british aristocracy, such as myself, the pieman and AlmaDelNorte might dress for shit and be tighter than a gnat's pussy, but we are simply classier.

Regards all

Jonathan 23rd Earl of Bethnal Green

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:25:

Why am I expected to tip at Angus Brangus, when I do not tip at El Corral, nor McDonalds? I refuse to tip, the business owners are responsible for paying their employees fare wages, not the customers.

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

2 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:28:

BK
Corral and MC are selfservice. You take the easiest way not to help. A tip is a help for the person for a good job.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:29:

BK
just look at your own words: "Actions speak louder than words, " That´s all about it.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

JGD (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:51:

BK, Tipping is not a place in China you know?

You are worried the US is going to invade and take the Venezuelan oil?... you are selling everything to them !!Peruvian Pres. Alan Garcia to Chavez

1 funny, 0 helpful.

dwmte7 says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:52:

in colombia "service" does not go to the employees. refuse to pay it. and if you are of a mind to give a gratuity to your service personel or to the chef, do it directly. forget thinking that the establishments pass on these monies to the employees.

patriarch

1 funny, 0 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:01:

At restaurants I always pay the 10% service charge and bill with a credit card. Then i put the rest (TIP) in CASH in the Server's Hand.
Makopp5- Good point on Corral and MC.
Baggage guys at the airport ALWAYS have an attitude no matter what city you are in. Don't use them.
Taxi- nope
Hotel maids- Yes but not as much as Brians.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:05:

Saltador:

"Also, someone once told me that the tip they put on the bill may not necessarily make it to the person who was waiting on you." Yes, I got that info too: It's split beetwen the waiters, the staff in the kitchen and, sadly, with the person in charge (unfair).

"Maids and such I will tip if the service was good.": Your in-house muchacha?

"Agree with Nelly that the 500 peso tip was too small, in that situation I'd either give them some paper or nothing at all." I knew you'd say that... So leave a tip representing 40% of the bill because you HAVE to leave "paper" if you're not to offend anyone. I'm learning every day.

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

0 funny, 1 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:10:

I think it is pretty good that you can get a nice juice at a nice hotel for $2500COP. I think i would have "insulted" the waiter myself and left 500 pesos. oh well

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:16:

BillyB: I left 500 pesos because this represented 20% of my 2500 bill. I had no intention to offend any one and I thought this was an acceptable tip for someone who was basically doing his job.

I have still to learn a lot about Colombia and this is exactly what I started this thread - to learn about life and customs in Colombia.

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:20:

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 09:25 (today): flag

Why am I expected to tip at Angus Brangus, when I do not tip at El Corral, nor McDonalds? I refuse to tip, the business owners are responsible for paying their employees fare wages, not the customers.

It´s interesting BK is hating the NMG but he himself is not giving a tip in a restaurant.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:26:

Darloup -i think you miss understood me. I would have done the same thing and learned just like you

1 funny, 0 helpful.

babygirl says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:27:

hmmm well here's what I've done in the past in Colombia.
Cabs - round up the coins
Hotel Caribe (Cartagena) - week's stay 10K for the maid (roughly), servers 5-10K at the end of the week for the ones that took good care of me (hehe keep the beers nice and cold and frequent)
Salon & Spa - brows waxed - didn't tip, the lady I was staying with told me not to, but I felt really really weird walking out of there
Hostels - no tips
Cheap lunch / dinners (at those hole in the wall set lunch places, pardon my ignorance) - round up change or no tip
Nicer restaurants - tip's usually included but I don't think that goes directly to the server. My guess it goes to the house and maybe is divided with pay? If the service is good I leave a couple K, same with bars either round up the cost of the round or leave a couple K for the server if they're good.

Best quote of the week... "should I be taking this pill with wine?" Canadian Girls Kick Ass!

1 funny, 1 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:29:

makopp, "It´s interesting BK is hating the NMG but he himself is not giving a tip in a restaurant."

Again, I refuse to tip, business owners are responsible for paying their employees fare wages, NOT THE CUSTOMERS! The working-man always gets stuck paying all the bills.

This has nothing to do with NMG's whatsoever, regardless of how you try to spin this f'd up custom, tip these guys over here, but not those guys over there. I HATE feeling gulity about not leaving a tip.

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:29:

I always appreciate when they add the 5% propitia ( sp ) in as it saves me from having to feel guilty for not going with the usual 15%. Obviously when you have to add it to all checks, people clearly do not tip much in Colombia.

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:38:

BillBidD: Sorry! I followed my own instincts and ended up being considered as a "tacaño": The waiter refused my tip (typical misplaced Latino pride) and even my Colombian wife criticized me on that one : "You can't ever give less than 1000 pesos as a tip in Colombia"). Slowly learning...

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

0 funny, 1 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 11:39:

Darloup

don´t feel huilty, here are people like BK who are real tacaño, because he don´t want to spend money on a tip.

BK
when you really want to help people, with a tip you can give exactly money to a person who needs it, your excuse is just stupid and very TACAÑO.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 11:49:

justo mi
like most lefties, big mouth, but when it's time for action, they find everytime another excusion. Look at romy too, the same.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:03:

Once I was "tipping" Military. When I was coming back from Coveñas to Medellin at Ventanas the military stopped us and ask, if we can take 2 guy from here (Ventanas) to Medellin. I said yes of course, they told me that they are sweaping out the guerilla and drug production near Taraza. They showed us a foto from their capo who was blow up by a lindmine. When we arrived in Niqui they left and I gave them 50.000 Pesos, that they can invite their girlfriends. They were coming out of the mountains after several months.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

dwmte7 says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:14:

bravo, martin.

patriarch

0 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:16:

douglas
they are watching our asses.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:25:

Tipping, isnt that a city in China?

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

billyb says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:30:

"BillyB: I left 500 pesos because this represented 20% of my 2500 bill. I had no intention to offend any one and I thought this was an acceptable tip for someone who was basically doing his job."

Darloup, you are quoting incorrectly, go back and read the name of the real poster, then change it.

"All I want to know is where I'm going to die, so I never go there" Unkown (at least to me) wise man.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:41:

Sorry if I left an incorrect quote. My 60 minutes to edit it are up.

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:55:

makopp, "when you really want to help people, with a tip you can give exactly money to a person who needs it, your excuse is just stupid and very TACAÑO."

NO, you're stupid. Sorry but I refuse to tip based on some silly customs, if people don't like it, too bad for them, they're probably NMG's anyways.

"That was the point of my post above. So cheap they would probably steal from there mama. They need to work in the service/hospitality industry some time."

Is it "Justo mi" or do must Colombians try to get something for nothing? Is it "Justo mi" or does it seem like most Colombians do not trust Colombians? I wonder why?

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:03:

BK
yes why should somebody who gives you a service likes you if you are so tacaño. I was last week at a mud vulcan close to San Antero, there were 2 black women who helped us to was up the mud from our bodies, they live from tips and they do a good job, they provide the water, that you can enjoy a tourist attracktion. From what will they live, when everybody is thinking like you? But thanks god, most of the Colombians don`t think like you. But yes: "Actions speak louder than words". Just remember your own words.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:04:

"I hope PCL reads this, as he made a comment the other day about how people traveling to Colombia and tipping well are ruining it for others."

Where did I write that please show me Justo? I leave a tip and give a little to people when I feel they give me good service, I do NOT over tip and have no problems leaving a little something when deserved. Pay the standard, dont be a NMG and dont over tip if not necessary.

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

coastalad says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:04:

Being a non native North American.. i too think the whole tipping system blows!!! though I have learned to give what's expected and not worry about the little things.

I think everyone is always biased on this topic depending on whether you have worked for tips or not...

I have not, hence anti tipping. Also growing up in Australia with a high minimum wage and where your server is on 20 bucks and hour also sways my thinking.

In Colombia I did tip in restaurants, bars and didnt ask for change from the taxi

The problem with tipping to me is it just doesn't make sense and is not fair. I know servers earn a crap hourly wage and need tips to survive.. but so do many other workers who also serve me and don't get tips. Why should i tip my server or hairdresser but not the gas station attendant, the staff in the supermarket or the person in Mcdonalds... they served me too... earned a crappy wage but don't get a tip.... yet the bartender who went to all the trouble of opening my beer at the bar is expected a tip..... which i do so that I have a chance of being served again (being male im already up against it!)

I find going to a restaurant with friends or are servers is a different experience.... for me the restaurant is all about the food, the company and the setting..... with the hope my food arrives hot and my beer cold.... dining with my server friends its all about if the waiter did this or that right or wrong and being judgemental..... then thinking how much to tip and usually doing so generously...

so in short if you have worked for tips in the past you probably tip well now... if you didn't then you give the standard

always avoiding white picket fences

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:10:

Woah keep your hair on Brians. Like I said, you get good service you tip, you get very good service, you tip better, so we are in agreement on that much.

Nobody has ever mentioned anything about you ruining it for others as PCL points out. But as for tipping where tipping is not customary, in taxis for example, this is a no no. I don't stay in hotels here, i tend to sleep in my apartment. But like I also said, if you happen to be passing through an international tourist class hotel then hey tip whatever the hell suits you.

Needless to say I am not descended from the landed gentry and my second comment was tongue in cheek

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:12:

Worth adding that in the UK and Pedro's Australia, then hospitality staff are paid a living wage. Didn't mention that in terms of Colombia because all though I don't know how much hospitality industry employees earn, I don't doubt it is pitiful

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:12:

You better believe it when I go into a restaurant where I tipped, the next time they see me they are very happy too see me and serve me.. lol again nothing exorbitant, just a little sumthin sumthin..

Like I said, if the taxi meter comes out to 4,800 and I only have a 5mil note, Im not going to worry about the 200pesos.. Buy hey thats just me, im a gringo.. we tip here and I bet you that cab driver will come away with a better feeling of gringos, MAYBE.. lol

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:18:

Brians says on Nov 8, 2009, 12:39 (today): flag

Why is it the the best tippers are not rich but people who work in the hospitality industry and actually understand and take notice of a good job? People like BK and Johnny actually ruin it for everyone. If you can't afford something then don't complain other's are ruining it for you just live within your budget.
--------------

Brians,

Not true. I once listened to a fellow traveller in Cali tell me how he paid for his trip by working tipping jobs like hotel reception. We were sitting at one of the food booths in Chipi Chape. At the exact same moment, the waiter brings back his change on a small platter, and the guy takes his change and leaves the platter clean as a whistle.

So I ask him: "you came to Colombia on tips, but you don't believe in tipping while you're here?"

"No", he replies, "I didn't know it was necessary".

Never mind the fact that it was food service and the change came on a tray, they didn't just put it in his hand. I swear I am not making this up.

It might be hard for you US guys to comprehend. But just take my word for it that if you were born in any other part of the world, the whole system would most likely seem ridiculous to you.

"this may seem a strange post but it is not...when in colombia men need to be aware that colombia women may try to be seductive and entice a travelling gringo to have sex with them..to be forewarned is to be forearmed..." -- pow wow

1 funny, 1 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:23:

This is indeed a question of tipping vs paying your staff properly, not a question of respect of gratitude.

A friend of mine works a bar in the US and gets $1.50 per hour. A barperson in the UK, even one on the minimum wage earns 6 times that. So which one is fucked on a 6 hour Tuesday afternoon shift when one punter walks by, orders a bottle of bud and leaves a dollar tip?

0 funny, 2 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:25:

"It is about respect and consideration for the people who you interact with everyday."

Then pay employees a living wage if you happen to be a bar owner

1 funny, 1 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:30:

Well enjoy dinner Brians, like I said in my first post, I am sure you are a top drawer geezer. I just think there is a culture gap and the US structure for paying hopsitality doesn't stand anywhere else in the world

1 funny, 1 helpful.

coastalad says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:38:

Johnny2009.. totally agree, if much of the rest if the world can afford to pay their wait staff a livable wage why cant North America!

always avoiding white picket fences

1 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:39:

I also travelled Europe for several summers, hanging out with American college students. Many told me about their jobs, at different moments. When they mentioned tipping jobs, the theme was invariably that it was quick, easy money, and far above what could be made in a job with a regular wage.

And that was quite a few years ago. The expected tip in a restaurant has probably inflated another 5% since then.

No doubt they appreciate their clients' gratuities (the more, the better). But I just don't think the system is equitable (and I think they recognised it wasn't, either).

1 funny, 0 helpful.

babygirl says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:43:

Ironically enough, I'm usually a budget traveller BUT I really do account for tipping and well let's call it charity when I do my travel budget. That's just me. I'm not trying to say I'm better than anybody but maybe it's because I've been there and I hate to play the single mom card but it does make you appreciate the little things like an extra couple of bucks at the end of your shift.

johnny and others, I totally agree with the fact that I think the hospitality industry SHOULD be paying better wages. I sometimes get annoyed that we are expected to supplement the wages of servers, pizza guys, taxi drivers etc... But, it's not the 'worker's' fault either. Maybe I'm just a softy? :) Catch 22?

A nice story... a bit off topic but still related so read if only if you want and don't yell at me for going off topic please!

A couple weeks ago I missed the train to get downtown for the Metallica concert. I only had $40 on me and was really really late. The taxi driver told me to relax and to give me what I could afford, drove me to the venue. The bill came to $47 and I managed to scrounge another $3 in my purse, but not enough obviously. I suggested he wait and I would find an ATM, he took my $40, told me to keep the $3 to buy myself a coffee at the concert (hehe like I was drinking coffee) and went on his way. What an awesome guy!!! :) The gas to get me there and time (rush hour traffic) I'm sure took up whatever money he would have made on the fare.

Best quote of the week... "should I be taking this pill with wine?" Canadian Girls Kick Ass!

1 funny, 0 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:53:

I think the salary in England makes more sense then here in the states. Saying that i think Byron_Kostner way of thinking is incorrect.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:57:

Pretty academic debate anyway because the likelihood of getting half decent service in Colombia is fairly remote.

Out of interest BG is the pay structure in Canada the same as the USA? I was going to say that one of the upsides of the USA structure is that all waiting staff do an incredibly cheesy line in affable smalltalk, you can tell that they are working for their tips and pay for it accordingly. All the waiting staff I came across in Toronto though were miserable bastards.

3 funny, 2 helpful.

Lisa Zee says on Nov 8, 2009, 13:59:

I hear Europeans are not good tippers and N Americans are. When we are in Colombia we tip over the 15% that is included. I personally would tip in Colombia much more than here in the USA. I give always extra money to the maid, if she is by the day, say she charges $25.000 pesos I give her 30.000. If she is by the month, like when I stay with any of my family, I give her money after I leave, I tip the manicurist, hair dresser, taxi, at Exito,etc, geeeshh it is only pesos!

Vive la vida y deja vivir!.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:18:

LZ. Europeans are not good tippers because the employees' wages are built into the cost of our beer. We'll often say "have one yourself" in the UK and the barmaid will pour herself a glass of wine and get pissed with you.

Go to Lisbon and they will give you your change on a little silver dish, but you simply have to pocket it, because all the portuguese folks will laugh at you if you don't. We go to the USA and yes we tip as the Americans do because that is the business model. Although I appreciate not all do.

Give the woman that owns the bar over the street from my place another couple of mil on a 15 mil tab and she will hand it back and tell you that you counted your money wrong.

I don't give that small person in Exito anything because she ties my carrier bag handles together. That and it cannot be hygienic having a colombian touch my food

2 funny, 1 helpful.

whitewidow says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:20:

the bottom line is that everybody in this thread is a cheap bastard.......... except BRIANS!

I TOOK 10 MINUTES TO READ THIS WORTHLESS DRIBBLE......... WHERE'S MY TIP???

I'm no doper! I just play one on TV.

2 funny, 2 helpful.

coastalad says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:33:

Canada is much the same as the US as far as base pay for servers, perhaps a bit more.....

many servers here have the mentalality that they are PROFESSIONALS, they forget most of what they do my beer monkey could handle.... just because they are earning shitloads in tips

always avoiding white picket fences

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:39:

Bottom line, You Euro's tip or DONT tip as you like and we EEUU gringos will leave a tip or something if we feel the service was worth a little something extra. (not all of them but some of them) Thats our prerogative and you have your customs as well. I go to exito and the guy tying the plastic handles together nicely and with care I give him 2mil, so what? The guy makes 480mil a month and has to pay for the bus as well. The taxi driver helps me take things inside I give him a 5mil.. nothing exorbitant. Just a little thank-you! This conversation has gone on way to long than it should have no? lol Leave something where applicable fine, dont? thats your prerogative.. plain and simple.

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Lisa Zee says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:46:

"The guy make 480mil a month and has to pay for the bus as well".... My point exactly!.

(I hate the tying of the bags thing) LOL

Vive la vida y deja vivir!.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:52:

"Tips are expected in the service industry"

Tips are expected in the service industry in the USA

Tips are nice but not necesarily expected in the service industry in the rest of the world

Please understand that. I waited tables for 2 years in the UK when I was a student, tips = nice, but salary more than adequate to start with

1 funny, 0 helpful.

babygirl says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:55:

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:18 (today): flag

LZ. Europeans are not good tippers because the employees' wages are built into the cost of our beer. We'll often say "have one yourself" in the UK and the barmaid will pour herself a glass of wine and get pissed with you.
****
Agree, I've only been to Spain, tried to tip the guy and that was exactly it, he corrected our mistake and must of thought we couldn't count. :) We asked some people back at our hotel and they said that it wasn't normal to tip.

RE: Canada wages for servers, I don't know first hand what servers make in the states and I'm assuming that it might vary from state to state.
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/es/pubs/guide/minwage.php
Liquor Servers Minimum Wage $8.25 increasing March 2010 to $8.90 per hour

Best quote of the week... "should I be taking this pill with wine?" Canadian Girls Kick Ass!

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Lisa Zee says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:56:

"Go to Lisbon and they will give you your change on a little silver dish, but you simply have to pocket it, because all the portuguese folks will laugh at you if you don't."

Yeah I been there, they really stare at you 'cose you all sit at a big table.

Off topic sorry ...Does anyone know what are those seeds they give you before you eat that looked like corn, over there in Lisbon?

Vive la vida y deja vivir!.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:04:

Justo mí says on Nov 8, 2009, 14:56 (today): flag

Ok put it this way johnny, you know for the most part people working in the service/hospitality industries in Colombia make little money, so if you can afford the opportunity to live in Colombia, or visit in Colombia, you should be able to afford to tip the people what they deserve who are working in these industries.

¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿

This is a different issue altogether Justo, I will tip for good service but the welfare of Colombians simply is not and cannot be my problem.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:05:

Real SImple really:

No Tips=Broke ass gringos in Colombia=NMGs=Chichipatos.....I get embarrassed when gringos i hang out with in Ctg either dont tip or leave chump change, especially when the service was good. But yet they wont blink at exorbitant hotel or apt prices here, and blindly pay those prices like frickin sheep....baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...baaaaaaaaaaa.....baaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

Like LisaZ says...we are talking how many pesos here??? millions? jajajajja...

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:08:

Makopp,
By your logic, a Colombian who works in the service industry would never see a peso from me because they never give good service, so either way, they don't get a single peso from me.

" I was last week at a mud vulcan close to San Antero, there were 2 black women who helped us to was up the mud from our bodies, they live from tips and they do a good job, they provide the water, that you can enjoy a tourist attracktion."

Do the women work for a business, or was this something they do on their own to earn a living? Hope you are aware that there is a big difference between the two.

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:13:

No Tips=Broke ass gringos in Colombia=NMGs=Chichipatos.....

I spend over 16 million COP per month living in Colombia and it is not all spent on myself. So phuck all you guys that want to make the litimus test a tip.

Which one of you big spenders actually lives here?

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:18:

BK
"I hate the whole concept of tipping, give everyone a fare wage and be done with tipping all together."
Your words or not?

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:20:

Justo mí says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:19 (today): flag

Miguel for one. Now what?

Well I appreciate his position on the matter, Now what_

David

1 funny, 1 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:21:

Miguel Clavo lives here, so you cannot really have a dig at him. But you make a fair point david.

Living here for a year and setting up a business, i reckon I get about 15 mil pesos change out of about US$100,000 sunk into Colombia. Those 15 mil pesos are probably equal to the additional tips that justo mi has paid to taxi drivers during her 3 visits over the last 12 years.

Is it you David that just spent about 200 bucks in fuel duty and toad tolls to fetch your dog?

1 funny, 0 helpful.

wwwhitey says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:24:

I think there's a world of difference between these three positions:

1) Someone who refuses to tip, even if tipping is expected within the culture you live or are visiting

2) Someone who tips for services within the culture where it is expected, proportionately to the cultural standards or perhaps slightly more, and even more for exceptional service

3) Someone who leaves huge tips when it is not expected within the culture.

IMO position 1 is disgraceful, position 2 is the appropriate behavioral, and position 3 is a little crass but at least you've got a big heart (or at least a big wallet and ego).

Whitey

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:25:

Byron_Kostner, "I hate the whole concept of tipping, give everyone a fare wage and be done with tipping all together."
makopp, "Your words or not?"

And your point? I hope you have one this time.

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

roccatanski says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:28:

"Which one of you big spenders actually lives here?"

I live here and I tip,my barber, restaurant where they serve you,the person that puts my groceries in the bag at exito(I was told these people do not get paid for this service), also for taxis I am like P/C/L I tell them to keep the coins.

"A man is defined by his actions, not his memory" ( Kuato-- total recall)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:29:

Johnny says

Is it you David that just spent about 200 bucks in fuel duty and toad tolls to fetch your dog?

Yes it was toad tolls,

And 1 million to the taxi I backed into in el dorada and of course 50,000 to transito.

But honestly, I was not drinking and it was my fault.

Maybe I should have done the Colombian thing, deny, deny, deny,

okay it is an asshole thing anywhere.

In addition if you really wanted me to freely tip do not place a charge on my bill for tipping. You do your staff and your establishment a disservice.

David

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:31:

My point is that people dont tip because they dont have money. I tip very generously every day here. Broke ass gringos living in Colombia dont tip. Neither do Colombians. And anyone who tips like a chichipato when they are with me will hear it from me. And it will get uglyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy................jajajjaja

David....I live here in Colombia 2 years this month, and i spend much more than that monthly for my living and business expenses. My business has been open since Feb of 2005. How long you been in Medellin? Did i strike a nerve, David, to where you want to tell me to phuck off? Any lady friend referrals you would like to promote on PBH, philly phella? jajajajajajajjaja..........

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Byron_Kostner says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:32:

I get up very early every morning, walk to the metro, ride the metro cable cars, with a bag packed with snacks, up to some of the poorest areas in Medellin, teach English to a group between the ages of 5 to over 60, a few times a week I also purchase lunch for everyone, this I do for FREE, I don't get paid, nor do I get tips for my work. I don't live in El Poblado where I run a business for profit, exploiting the cheap labor in Colombia. I don't hide in El Poblado, I spend my days with the people, teaching and learning from them each and every single day. You NMG,'s and know-it-alls, spend your days doing what, besides contributing nothing back to Colombia? I will take any of you NMG's to dinner, pay the bill for you and your date, and refuse to leave a tip, because the employer is responsible for paying his employees fare wages, not the CUSTOMER! And as the old adage goes, THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT!

Actions speak louder than words, but the self-righteous crusaders want to live by their own rules.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:33:

In the Uk you tip if the service is good or if you want to it's not obligatory, in the USA you need a tipping wallet because there you have to tip everyone who even says hello, in Colombia I WILL tip according to the service.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:34:

I could not believe that in the USA i had to tip the taxi driver!!!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:34:

David....I live here in Colombia 2 years this month, and i spend much more than that monthly for my living and business expenses. Did i strike a nerve, David, to where you want to tell me to phuck off? Any lady friend referrals you would like to promote on PBH, philly phella? jajajajajajajjaja.....

Migue,

Be a little nicer than that. No you did not strike a nerve... But if you want to be a dick towards me have at it! You would be in good company.

David..

1 funny, 1 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:35:

Rocca come to think it.. I was told the kid baggage handlers at Exito, LA14 etc do not get paid either? Can anybody confirm this?

Also, there is a difference between giving a worthy tip and trying to be Brad Gates as well.

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:36:

The point is Justo Mi, it is not your place as someone that lives in the states to tell the rest of us, particularly those of us that live here how we should support the economy.

Those of us that live here contribute considerably more than those of you that casually visit, regardless of which industries our beneficiaries work in.

My company has no direct employees, but the shipping company sure as hell does, as does the accountant, the finance company, the bank, the official translator and MRE that I have to pay to authorise his works. My EPS company certainly has plenty of employees, as does my dental clinic. I dont think my fat gay trade mark lawyer has any employees but I sure as hell keep his ass lubed. Not forgetting all the government or quasi government agencies that need paying handsomely.

All of that money goes back into the economy, and all of us eat and drink, so I am sure your family members in the hospitality industry are being well patronised.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:38:

PCL, no the mini bag packers do not get paid.

Technically speaking nobody working in Exito gets paid by Exito

0 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:40:

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:38 (today): flag

PCL, no the mini bag packers do not get paid.

Technically speaking nobody working in Exito gets paid by Exito

Oh I forgot to mention I tip the baggers at exito more than you!!!

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:43:

David, you just told me to phuck off? Must have gotten under your skin to get that kind of reaction from you after my statement you quoted. Seems to me like you are the dick, David. Some people just have asses as tight as a frogs ass, thats all.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:44:

"Oh I forgot to mention I tip the baggers at exito more than you!!!"

Who me? Depends how many bag handles they have to tie.. lol

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:45:

I tip the Exito kids, because they dont draw a salary. so whats a few coins or 1-2 mil to all these guys who spend over 16 million a month here?

I dont tip Taxi drivers..who does that?

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:47:

Johnny: "I don't give that small person in Exito anything because she ties my carrier bag handles together. That and it cannot be hygienic having a colombian touch my food"

Horrid and unfair...! The poor 16-old at Exito bagging your stuff do expect a few hundreds pesos to do so...

True, I never asked for my purchases to be bagged at the till, but then it is beside te point:

If teen-ager entrepeneurship is encouraged in the US (newspapers rounds, etc), why should it be discouraged in Colombia?

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

0 funny, 1 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:48:

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:43 (today): flag

David, you just told me to phuck off? Must have gotten under your skin to get that kind of reaction from you after my statement you quoted. Seems to me like you are the dick, David. Some people just have asses as tight as a frogs ass, thats all.

I did it nicely in response to you talking shit about me doing something in good faith. So it thats how you play and the shoe fits what would you expect me to say.

I do not get concerned whether your name is miguel or george bush so do not give that anymore thought. I actually liked george bush.

My business is dogs and not bitches. You seem to know alot about the bitches.

David

1 funny, 1 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:49:

If they just bagged the shopping then fine, I'd give them a tip, but if they tie the handles together then they should pay me for not punching them. You know it is the only thing that truly pisses me off about living in Colombia.

A friend of mine down here in Bogotá got leprosy and left a tip at la piscina

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:52:

No Johnny, I tell then not to KNOT them up too tight because they make perfect high strength garbage bags you can hang on any door knob.. jajaajaja lol

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 1 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:55:

"My business is dogs and not bitches."

Hay bastante perros y perras en Colombia..

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

0 funny, 1 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:57:

Miguel,

I was going to PM you but I think that would be under handed. I do not know you and you do not know me. Maybe our assumptions are wrong. I hope so.

David

1 funny, 1 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:59:

Johnny: "I don't give that small person in Exito anything because she ties my carrier bag handles together. That and it cannot be hygienic having a colombian touch my food"

are you Scotish? hehheheh

2 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:01:

you got your head in one of your dogs asses, David? WTF are you talking about? Why do you think that any of the below quote was directed to you which caused you to be a cunt and tell me to phuck off????....get a grip, dude, you are losing it.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:05 (today): edit flag

Real SImple really:

No Tips=Broke ass gringos in Colombia=NMGs=Chichipatos.....I get embarrassed when gringos i hang out with in Ctg either dont tip or leave chump change, especially when the service was good. But yet they wont blink at exorbitant hotel or apt prices here, and blindly pay those prices like frickin sheep....baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...baaaaaaaaaaa.....baaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

"I did it nicely in response to you talking shit about me doing something in good faith. "...................What are you talking about?????? I never responded to anything you posted? are you a buzuco man, David?

That was not directed to you, David. Now you make an ass out of yourself, and include yourselve amongst the chichipato group...nice job, David! whats the real story here, David???

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:02:

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:59 (today): flag

Johnny: "I don't give that small person in Exito anything because she ties my carrier bag handles together. That and it cannot be hygienic having a colombian touch my food"

Kat,

Might as well get into with you. That sounds downright wrong.

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:06:

David, my PM is always open......i said nothing offensive to you to start all this, and i still cant find where you say i attacked you somehow..i looked at the thread over 3 times.....????.....miguelclavo at aol.com open 24/7.....=)

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:06:

That was not directed to you, David. Now you make an ass out of yourself, and include yourselve amongst the chichipato group...nice job, David! whats the real story here, David???

Miguel

The truth is if you knew me you would stop talking sh*t. If I errrored, my friends would shut the phuck up.

David

1 funny, 1 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:10:

huh? David?

0 funny, 1 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:11:

???????????????????????????????????????????????????

what are you talking about? where is this shit i am talking about, David? i cant find it anywhere in this post. Please point it out to me. Even if i knew you i would trashtalk you to your face if you deserved it. do i fear you David? Not hardly.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:12:

and what the phuck does this mean???

"If I errrored, my friends would shut the phuck up."

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:17:

Gentle reminder:

Here is your only post before my first post, David:

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 10:29 (today): flag

I always appreciate when they add the 5% propitia ( sp ) in as it saves me from having to feel guilty for not going with the usual 15%. Obviously when you have to add it to all checks, people clearly do not tip much in Colombia.

David

0 funny, 0 helpful. Mark as funny | helpful

Here is my first post in this thread which was after yours:

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 15:05 (today): flag

Real SImple really:

No Tips=Broke ass gringos in Colombia=NMGs=Chichipatos.....I get embarrassed when gringos i hang out with in Ctg either dont tip or leave chump change, especially when the service was good. But yet they wont blink at exorbitant hotel or apt prices here, and blindly pay those prices like frickin sheep....baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa...baaaaaaaaaaa.....baaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

Like LisaZ says...we are talking how many pesos here??? millions? jajajajja...

Lets hear it for the new PBH Experts on Colombia! DrPhilinamillion, KY, and Darloops!!!!!!! We Salute Your Valuable Contributions to This Forum!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Will someone explain to me how my comment is directed to David, and then how it is talking shit??? Inquiring minds would like to know...........................

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:18:

Okay,

Then let it go. You got a nice hit in on the philly phella. But it could not really stick becuase I was not guilty.

I have tried to say I do not know you but I might like to know you at least once.

If however you cannot make the leap of friendndship I certainly understand.

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:22:

MES says you are good people, but i never directed any comment towards you in this thread, yet you want to tell me to phuck off with a ph...hence the philly phella comment with a ph.....dont fire the first shot if you dont expect return fire. Enough said.

Next time i am in Medellin we can meet up.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:24:

I think he got lost in translation

1 funny, 0 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:25:

Justo mí says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:20 (today): flag

I think he is trying to point out that he would have his friends shut you up Miguel. One thing about you Miguel, is you are not about to run from no one, and you are not a hypocrite like so many on here. You keep it real and are real. David sounds like another Bushwacked.

PBH is similar to the movie "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest", but good cheap entertainment. :)

Justo mi,

I hope miguel is a better translater than you. That is not what I said or meant. But you seem to be an instigating kinda fella who interprets things for others.

As much as I got tired of Bushwacked at least he was not some pussy trying top draw others into a fight.

You interpret that!

David

1 funny, 2 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:31:

MES says you are good people, but i never directed any comment towards you in this thread.

I am just that as I suspect you are. I may have misunderstood your comments but again I ask you more or less, are you my friend or foe. If you are my friend, let my stupid comments go.

I apologize that I am not in a better mood to understand what you meant.

David

1 funny, 1 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:57:

BK
respect what you are doing.
"I don't live in El Poblado"
I worked very hard for this I risk all my saving to build up a company and I like to live nice.
" where I run a business for profit,"
best option for me in Colombia and all honest work
"exploiting the cheap labor in Colombia."
That you have to ask my employees. The last person I hirred was before selling cigarettes at a traffic light and he started with 600.000 Pesos, now he is earning 800.000 150.000 for his motorbike. I gave all my employees last month a bonus of 2.000.000 Pesos. All the others are earning more than 1 millon. And this guy will earn next year more than 1 millon.
"I don't hide in El Poblado,"
I was working with one secretary on Saturday morning, all the others had free. I was first picking up something at Palo with 47 (Poblado?), then I went to my office Av. Guayabal with 29 (Pobaldo), then I went to a client close to Premium Plaza (Pobaldo?) After that anther time to the center Cra. 52 with 41 (Poblado?), my office than close to Almacentro (Poblado), than close to calle 10 close to the busterminal in the south, than Envigado/Sabaneta, back home from 9am to 2 pm. An average day on saturday. All hiding in Poblado.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:57:

Brians,

Thanks very much. On this topic, you have the right to your opinion, and I have the right not to listen.

I can be generous with my money, and it doesn't have to be directed in an exaggerated form towards the employed meseros who ferry a plate from the kitchen to my table.

If I want to give an extra mil pesos to the guy rummaging around in the garbage on the street, and not to a waiter, so what? Maybe instead I want to sponsor a child in a country even poorer than Colombia. As long as I'm giving something, right? It's zero sum. I earned the money, I'll decide where it goes.

If that doesn't fit in with your anachronistic value system from a country I've never lived in, so be it.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

davidslc46 says on Nov 8, 2009, 16:59:

Brian

You are one good dude.

I will not forget that

David

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:00:

Lets face it , this is just you " gringos" that tip, the majorities of Colombians don't tip. do you think that a colombian is going to tip 2000 cop when that could buy a bolsa de leche for the next day? only well off colombian can tip that amount or the ones married to foreigners.

not me I am as tight as duck a** hehehh

BUT not with street kids.....

2 funny, 1 helpful.

makopp5 (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:07:

kat
yes most bof the colombians give tips. Sure the poorest ones not, but if youn see the middle class in Exito or Carrefour, nearly everybody is giving a tip to the packers. Perhabs not 2.000, but 500 Pesos.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:11:

oh yes the packers from exito or carulla get tips, 200cop, 500 pesos, even 1000 cop but you will never see then receiving a 5000 cop or more.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:15:

Brian my motto is if you can afford it then do it, but what happen is that it's spoil them, as I said, look at those guys who work at the Bogota airport, the ones who help to take your suitcases to the car, they look for the foreigners because they KNOW they will tip them well, they can't be bother with us Colombians because they know, we will give them miserable 5000 cop !!!
hell 5000cop to take just my two suitcases to the car!!! come on...

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:15:

Sheeeet, even the guy or young kid hailing a cab for me and opening the door for me out of the malls gets some cambio... 200pesos or whatever I have in my bolsio.

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:16:

Hmmmmmm....i go grocery shopping every week, I tip usually 1-2 mil to the bagger each time. 52 weeks per year times 1-2 mil per week>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Grand Total: 52 mil - 104 mil PER YEAR.......roughly $26-52 dollars per YEAR..............Christ almighty____________________________now i know where ALL OF MY MONEY GOES!!!!!!!!!!!!! who would have known?????????....damn baggers,,,,,scum of the earth, i say!

Tight ass cheapskates...who cant afford that over a one year period, if you live here????? even more shameful for visitors here........................

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:26:

Brian taking a suitcase to my car that is just a few hundred yards away it is not hard work! those guys are bloody spoil! I have seen the look at those guys when I give them 5000cop, hell I want to tell them to be grateful! I would rather give that 5000 cop to a poor family on the street. no one in colombia earn 5000cop for a minute.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:27:

Kat, i have paid a bagger 5 mil on several occasions. On trips when i have a shitload of food and alcohol, the baggers will pack the stuff, take the cart out of the store, locate a taxi for me while standing in that fokin Ctg heat, humidity, and even rain, then place all the items into the taxi for me. sometimes that will take 10-15 minutes depending on the time of day. They are the ones sweating not me. I am not Bill Gates either.

at the airports i handle my own luggage. If i am bringing more than 3 pieces of luggage, i will use the luggage guys, and tip them. Never tip a taxi.....Ctg taxis always want more if it is raining, a holiday, lots of traffic...and they have the highest minimum in all of Colombia....and they drive like bootleg runners.....

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:28:

Spoiling sounds like: "Let's not ruin a good thing of exploiting"....EXACTLY...but lets make sure they well fed, slept well before we exploit their labor.......ugh.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:29:

Miguel as I said is the service is good like the one you have mention above, i would not mind to tip well, but as I said not many Colombians can tip as good as I can. they can't afford it!!

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:31:

SHOW ME ONE WAITRESS IN COLOMBIA BEING COMPENSATED WELL!!!

She is probably on minimum wage which I already said is pitiful, I also said that the welfare of Colombians is not my responsibility and I put more than enough of my cash into this economy.

But suppose it was my responsibility, and I give that waitress a few mil for attending me well, then where does it stop? I mean suppose her apron is well laundered, do I head down the laundrette too and give that lady a propina? My internet has not toppled over for at least 3 months, but wait, there is probably a guy at Telmex that earns minimum wage for sweeping the floors in the Ops room, should I track him down and give him a tip to thank him for keeping the dust out of the servers?

So I give the taxi driver a tip cos he probably earns shit, but he is lucky, he is customer facing and I can give him something. Do I also give something to the minimum wage security guard on the gate at the refinery? he had a hand in making the diesel that my taxi ride used didn't he?

See it is not like the USA, because in Colombia, all these people earn shit and spend shit, in the USA only the hospitality industry employees take it up the shorts.

1 funny, 1 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:32:

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:28 (today): flag

Spoiling sounds like: "Let's not ruin a good thing of exploiting"....EXACTLY...but lets make sure they well fed, slept well before we exploit their labor.......ugh.

Spoil mean, lets not do a good service for Colombians because they don't tip well.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

kat1 (Moderator) (Trustee board) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:45:

In Colombia I always tip the guy who help me to find me a space to park my car in the center of Villavicencio which is very crowded , but I wonder because I can afford it and I tip him very well, everytime I go to the center on Villavicencio he has a parking space for me, I wonder if I tip him cr** I will find that service? or will he do the same service for a Colombian that can't afford to tip as well as me?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:48:

My 2c:

At the moment immigration to Colombia is wide open for foreigners, if they want it. We are lucky to live here, and we should try to make sure we're bringing something to the party. Especially if you're here on an investor visa or something similar.

Do you remember that Simpsons episode where they go to Brazil? Homer has a book in his luggage called "How to loot Brazil". Lisa notices the book, Homer just gives a sheepish laugh and tucks it away.

That sentiment of just plundering all the good things about the country, but not putting anything back in, is historically appropriate for Colombia, too. So, once again. If you enjoy it here, try to bring something to the party.

That something may not be simply tipping... it may be creating several jobs, being charitable in one particular area, donating bulk food, or banking a family that's about to have their home mortgage called in by the bank. Just try and do something good.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:50:

Kat, where i like to drink in El Centro several times a week i am one of the few foreigners there on a regular basis. Of course i only consume 1 beer. This is a small salsa bar and not Santo Domingo or any of the upper scale hotel bars. All income levels of Colombians stop there to have a cold beer and listen to the music. Every one of these people tip the servers. Some more than others but the servers get something. i see the money left on the tables, quickly snatched up by the servers. In front of this place there is lots of live entertainment, such as mimes, and those evil, hungry, underdeveloped, half naked, and tired folkloric of age dancers who should be in school so they can become educated and unemployed until they become unemployable at the age of 30. The custom is if you watch these people and they entertain you, you are supposed to kick them down your monedas. I sit and watch them collect coins the largest of which is the 500 peso coin (25 cents usd?). A significant number of the customers tip these people as well, and these are almost all colombians.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 17:56:

I agree with the gist of what Pedro is saying. I dont like seeing gringos coming here only to exploit the economic condition of Colombia compared to their country. But again, these are usually the NMGs who live here on a shoestring budget and have brought nothing to the party. Then some of these fucktards have the audacity to bitch and moan about Colombia. They need a good bitchslapping. There are givers in life and their are takers. I am the former.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:06:

This NMG acronym is bandied about a bit liberally, who exactly are they? Backpackers will hardly be insulted by it, that is the point of backpacking is it not? Anyone here on a TS or Investor visa is by definition dropping big spons. Anyone retiring here, well they have an income and they have to live within that income.

So is it the mongers? or the matrimonial visa types? I am none too fond of the pretendy unqualified teacher people, but I suppose they would be on limited budgets. La Huella chose a simpler life and seems to like living by Colombian standards. So who exactly are these NMGs that irk the Americans? Or is it just anyone without a consume to excess mentality?

1 funny, 0 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:06:

On trips when i have a shitload of food and alcohol, the baggers will pack the stuff, take the cart out of the store, locate a taxi for me while standing in that fokin Ctg heat, humidity, and even rain, then place all the items into the taxi for me. sometimes that will take 10-15 minutes depending on the time of day

Good for You Miguel that tip is well deserved

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:14:

PepeA posted the NMG thread intitially here on PBH i think....and somebody (MaBarker?) just posted it recently again....it has nothing to do with the amount of money one has.....read Gringoloids thread on the topic at www.puracolombia.com where a person with $1500 a month pension is not a NMG but a BMG....he gives a really good indication of what NMG really means......

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:15:

PepeA is Canadian btw.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:19:

More on tipping:

forever, one of pbh's endless interest in whether to give or not to give.

go ahead,... so some seed.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:27:

I read the MaBaker post and the NMG definition and it was most amusing. But who are they and on what basis are they here?

Brians calls me (and others) an NMG, but I am more of a "value for money not very wasteful guy." sort of a "I love dining and would love to find a restaurant where I can drop some money and have a good experience but I am fooked if I can find anywhere guy." A "Yes your wallpaper and candles are nice but the food is shitty and that's why I am pissed off guy" maybe even a "Why am I paying 3 times as much for the beer just for the pleasure of drinking it near a bunch of cunts guy." Deep down I am also a "One of us poor bastard consumers has to complain once in a while otherwise none of this bullshit will improve guy"

So you saying that to avoid being an NMG I have to suffer this shit with a smile on my face and then come back for more?

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:31:

Not at all, johnny. Just dont sweat the small details in life, and let the cockroaches out of the wallet every now and then. Cochroaches need to breathe too ya know....whats a few pesos here and there. None of us here on PBH are in survival mode when it come to money. Oh, wait, i take that back, the I can save 27 cents using these lightbulbs guy is. My Bad.

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:43:

Ah I am not sure, each to their own and I have a creeping admiration for anyone that can get a kick out of something as trivial as saving 27 cents by switching lightbulbs. I personally get a similar sense of pleasure from processed cheese

1 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel_Clavo says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:44:

RVW orderded me to remove my tagline congratulating the PBH Mods New Golden Boys. Lame.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:47:

This seems to be a cultural, getting adjusted problem. Those from outside the Americas feel that by them being here, they'll impose the rules from where they came from. You're not in Kansas anymore, so get with the program, you're in the Americas now.

IHaha, I'm going to go out and have a steak dinner tomorrow and tip $20 mil; now what are you going to do about that??

"I come to praise Darloup, not to bury him'............Julius Caesar

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:49:

Those from outside the Americas were probably never in Kansas

1 funny, 0 helpful.

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:56:

johnny, that went over your head.

"I come to praise Darloup, not to bury him'............Julius Caesar

1 funny, 0 helpful.

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:59:

Alright, do you europeans have tax included meals, or is the tax separate?

"I come to praise Darloup, not to bury him'............Julius Caesar

1 funny, 0 helpful.

ranaquajo (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:00:

"Tipping throughout the UK is usually expected at restaurants (but not always given) and sometimes taxis. The practice is also relatively common for some other services, such as hairdressers.

It is not customary to tip for service at the bar in a U.K. pub. However bars (as distinct from pubs, for example cocktail bars) will often deliver change on a plate to a customer being served at the bar and expect some or all of it to be left as a tip. Tips are usual for table service in either pubs or bars.

It is a legal requirement to post prices including any taxes and other charges. Additional service charges at restaurants are unusual, although more common in London and other large cities than regional areas. Where these occur, it is legal to refuse to pay the service charge if you believe the service was inadequate."

“The people using your software, even if you own it and pay for it, have rights and will behave as if they have rights. And if you abrogate those rights, you'll hear about it very quickly.”

1 funny, 0 helpful.

ranaquajo (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:02:

In Ireland "tipping is not a general habit except in taxis, hairdressers/barbers, and restaurants with table service. The same general rules apply as in the United Kingdom. For example, it is not customory to tip in bars or for any over-the-counter service, but waiters in pubs are usually tipped a token amount.

Although it has been cited that tipping for taxis is typical, it is not common in practice. Commonly people will round-up the fare to the nearest note to avoid fumbling for small change(for example, hand over €5.00 for a fare of €4.50)

In Ireland it is not customary to tip a percentage of the total bill, a few small coins is generally considered quite polite. Like most of Europe it is common to round up to the nearest note, (i.e. paying €30 for a bill of €26)."

“The people using your software, even if you own it and pay for it, have rights and will behave as if they have rights. And if you abrogate those rights, you'll hear about it very quickly.”

1 funny, 0 helpful.

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:02:

Alright, would it make you non-americans happy if the cost of the meal was increased by one quarter, and then you won't have to tip?

"I come to praise Darloup, not to bury him'............Julius Caesar

1 funny, 0 helpful.

ranaquajo (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:03:

"Tipping is a widely practiced social custom in the United States. Standards vary, but generally, gratuities are given for services rendered in the restaurant, bar, hotel, and taxi industries. For most of the 20th century it was considered inappropriate for the owner of an establishment to accept any tips, and while this is still considered the standard etiquette rule, the practice has mostly vanished as tipping has become ubiquitous for certain types of services. Tipping is done only by the host of a party. Guests should never leave tips as this breaches the host's hospitality. This etiquette applies to bar service at weddings and any other event where one is a guest as well. The host should provide appropriate tips to workers at the end of an event.

Tipping in the United States is so common and expected in some cases that in many service establishments, such as hair salons and restaurants, customers are actually asked by employees (verbally or with posted messages) to give a tip, or are verbally abused by staff for "stiffing" them, even though such behavior on the part of the staff is considered completely contrary to proper etiquette and standard professional business practices.

Laws in the states of Alaska, California, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington require all employees to be paid at least minimum wage. However, it is still customary to give standard tips in those places. Elsewhere, wage laws allow employers to credit an amount of earned tips against the minimum wage, allowing them to pay tipped employees less than minimum wage. As of September 2009, this reduction can be as low as $1.45 per hour in West Virginia, or as high as 100% in Virginia, reducing potential wages to $5.80 or $0 per hour, respectively. Which employees may have their wages reduced varies as well. The Fair Labor Standards Act defines a tipped employee as anyone receiving more than $30 per month in tips, although several states set a lower $20 per month threshold."

“The people using your software, even if you own it and pay for it, have rights and will behave as if they have rights. And if you abrogate those rights, you'll hear about it very quickly.”

1 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:04:

nothing will make them happy.
They've been pissed now, for about 233 years.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

ranaquajo (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:06:

... i guess tipping changes with your location ... i would advise the OP to check with his neighbors for the local customs ... if he doesn't believe his wife ...

“The people using your software, even if you own it and pay for it, have rights and will behave as if they have rights. And if you abrogate those rights, you'll hear about it very quickly.”

1 funny, 0 helpful.

njc (Dev team) (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:11:

I dunno, I think this "NMG" term is kinda funny. You guys say it as if anyone cares how much money you think you have.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:16:

what does NMG stand for?

"No More Giving"?

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

1 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 20:20:

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 19:02 (today): flag

Alright, would it make you non-americans happy if the cost of the meal was increased by one quarter, and then you won't have to tip?

¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿

I don't really spend enough time in the USA to give a crap but probably the thought of the Americans changing their tipping culture just for us would make me feel like I had put you guys out a bit

0 funny, 0 helpful.

johnny2009 says on Nov 8, 2009, 20:26:

MaBarker says on Nov 8, 2009, 18:59 (today): flag

Alright, do you europeans have tax included meals, or is the tax separate?

¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿?¿

Yes, In the UK and I think the whole of Europe tax must be included in the price for everything sold to consumers. Trade only suppliers such as builders merchants and commercial vehicle suppliers do not need to quote tax. Restaurants must by law have a price list which is visible from outside.

No Money Continent

0 funny, 0 helpful.

BillBigD says on Nov 8, 2009, 20:56:

NMG-I also find it funny. Especially since no one knows anybody's wealth.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

manINred says on Nov 8, 2009, 21:03:

Having grown up and lived in a tipping culture (North America) and a non-tipping culture (UK and Australia) I am in full agreement with Johnny 2009.

It is not necessary to tip where it is not customary to, it is just bizarre. That being said, if you don't tip in North America you are a wanker.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ranaquajo (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 8, 2009, 21:31:

njc and BillBigD - my take on the NMG term (after reading the description) is that it's an attitude thing more than a net worth thing ...

“The people using your software, even if you own it and pay for it, have rights and will behave as if they have rights. And if you abrogate those rights, you'll hear about it very quickly.”

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Paisa/Calena/Luver says on Nov 9, 2009, 09:07:

Cheap ass NMG Euro mofo's, ji ji lol. :)

Reminds me when I was in the DR, there was this German couple who sat through a whole musical beach merengue number and then didnt want to leave the guys not even 50pesos. The guys with their hands out where like "thank you" and the tourists had a very dumbfounded look on their faces. "Like what? You want a tip for that?" jajaaajaj.. We went over and gave them 100 pesos and we were at the next table over.

"PAY ATTENTION! I wonder if that person knows that when we push the FUNNY button, its because we are reading something outrageous, trying to be cynical, derogatory, sarcastic and/or obnoxious!"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

wwwhitey says on Nov 9, 2009, 19:16:

Well, thanks to whoever it was that mentioned that the baggers at Exito don't get paid except by tips (sorry, too lazy to re-read the entire thread). I asked my novia about that tonight and she said:

"Si mi amor, asi es ... pense que eras tocano."

Hahaha ... maybe I am, but I still like to tip when appropriate ... ;-)

Whitey

0 funny, 0 helpful.

MitchAlvarez says on Nov 10, 2009, 00:16:

I always tip! and so should anyone who can afford to do so. I cant stand cheap but wealthy folks.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 20, 2009, 05:04:

Greg Yohn's extended family?

http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local-beat/Time-In-Prison--7042605...

0 funny, 0 helpful.

oneforyourmillion says on Nov 20, 2009, 10:45:

Tipping is not the custom of Colombia. If you want to do it fine but it is not going to be understood in the same manner to which your giving. If this is OK then go ahead. I myself find it bad form to come to another culture and stand out. When in Rome, etc.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kramer says on Nov 20, 2009, 23:19:

I have lived in various countries around the world. Believe me, the tipping culture of America is our worst export.

Please tip what you want. I certainly tip well by Colombian standards when I am living there.

But the worst thing in the world is a "holier than thou" tipper telling others how much they should tip.

Kramer

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Darloup (☼Travelguide writer) says on Nov 20, 2009, 23:25:

Kramer: "But the worst thing in the world is a "holier than thou" tipper telling others how much they should tip."

Right!

But, often, it is not easy to reconcile what we have been led to believe (our own culture and experience) with what we're "supposed " to do, or even what we are "expected" to do - especially in a foregign country. Hence my OP...

Better to have tried and failed than having regrets all your life about what you MIGHT have missed

0 funny, 0 helpful.

goin_south says on Nov 21, 2009, 00:14 (today):

there was a story on the news tonight, about some patron getting arrested in a restaurant somewhere on the east coast, ... FOR NOT TIPPING!

Imagine that.
It's getting closer and closer to time to leave.

nothin I say is to be takn for my words, but rather for the words of Sailor Jerry.

0 funny, 0 helpful.