• Tipping is seen differently just about everywhere in the world outside of the USA. Dan will advise on when and how much to tip for services, but of course tipping will be entirely up to you.

Dan arranges trip services with many local guides and drivers and tips are a significant part of their income. Tipping $5 or $10 per day per person for a full day’s service is about right but Dan can explain why group-tipping is a good idea at the end of a service - where we pool our money together in one of those little red envelopes (it’s an “Asia” thing) before handing it over. In short, it’s a quicker and classier way to tip.

Typical tip amounts as a suggestion:
*** Baggage handler at your hotel:  $1 USD (22,000 VND) per bag
*** Tour Guide:  Between $5-10 per day per person.
*** Driver:  About $3-6 per day per person.
*** Taxi:  It used to be that taxi drivers in Vietnam did not expect tips. But it’s so common for foreigners like us to tip, it’s become expected from us - and the extra dollar or two round-up is not only kind and brings a smile and nod from the driver, but this small added tip ensures we avoid the driver’s scowl of disappointment as our last memory of him if he wasn’t tipped.
*** Food server:  generally, food service staff does not receive tips in Vietnam. That said, Dan realizes tipping also benefits the traveler because it’s a way to make us feel better - it’s a comfortable way of communicating with our server that we are happy with our service. No one will refuse a tip, if it makes you feel better to do so, do it.
*** Concierge services:  At your hotel or otherwise, a tip of a few dollars is appropriate if they help you book a tour/car/activity.
*** Bartenders:  Tenders at bars appreciate but don't expect tips, if you're poolside and have a drink delivered, a modest tip is appropriate of about $1 USD (22,000 VND).
*** Hotel cleaning staff:  while appreciated, a tip to the cleaning staff is not expected. But, if you opt to leave a tip, you may place it on your pillow when you check out.
*** Massage:  The house charges their base fee but tipping your masseuse/masseur directly afterwards is always expected (up to 50% of the house charge). Always ask up front if “tip is included” or what their policy is. Dan can advise you or even assist you with your massage/spa experience.
***Everyone:  Everyone appreciates the easiest “tip” to give": smiles and 'thank-yous', extra points if it's in their language!