Tipping tips for when you travel

TIPPING ETIQUETTE: When it comes to traveling overseas on a business trip, adjusting to a foreign language and currency can be cumbersome on top of a demanding schedule. But for many, knowing what to tip the busboy or hotel concierge is the most stressful part of any international rendezvous.

"Tipping is a cultural obstacle that is unusual in that it falls into that funny netherworld of things extremely awkward, yet people don't often talk about it," said Robert Freedman, president of the business consulting company ORC Worldwide. "There is often a fear that either someone might be offended, or that a business partner may think they are somehow naive or feeble."

The following is a list of appropriate gratuities in major cities around the world, in U.S. dollars:

• London: A 12.5 percent service charge is generally included at restaurants; 10 percent for taxis; up to $2 for hotel porters.

• Paris: Between 5 and 10 percent at restaurants, if a service charge is not already included; no tips for taxis; up to $2 per bag at hotels.

• Dubai: Tips are not obligatory for restaurants or taxis; hotel porters are $1.50 to $3.

• Moscow: 10 percent at restaurants; 5 to 10 percent for taxis; $1 per bag for hotel porters.

• Tokyo: Tips are not necessary.

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