DiegoC wrote:
While the word “TIP†is often debated as to its exact meaning and etymology, the probably inaccurate acronym “to insure promptness†is nevertheless the defacto meaning of tip to us as Americans and Canadians. In common everyday usage a TIP means a gratuity, voluntarily given to a service worker, for good service. The amount of the gratuity varies based on the quality of service.
Good service = better tip; poor service = smaller tip.
It is safe to say that Americans and Canadians see tips as a monetary reward connected to service excellence; but Ticas DO NOT see it that way.
To them a TIP is expected from Gringos because Gringos give TIPS even though TIPS are already built into the price of a Costa Rican meal or drink service. In other words, if you tip you are double tipping. And that is okay if the service is extraordinary.
For TICAs the concept of quality service and better TIPS is not connected. They just think we are dumb, have too much money and love to show off by speading it around.
Perhaps that that is due to the fact that some Gringo’s, who are pole vaulting from bar to bar, tip too much for inferior service.
I have wondered if the staff gets the tip money from the check. Does anybody know? This is exactly how I handle it, like Diego says. Poor service equals no tip. I don't get upset. I do the same at DR. If they make a face, I tell them next time stop chatting and start serving. Then I smile at them.
Dean
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