Tipping guides

[jrkfrk]

We will be traveling in Vietnam and Bangkok for the first time and will have guides in both areas. We wondered what the standard practice is for tipping the guide over the agreed upon fee for the tour? Also, would it be in USD or local currency (in both cases the tours are being paid for in USD). Any thoughts as to how much local currency we might need for incidentals? Most of our meals and entrance fees are included with our tours.

Thanks-

Fran (and Jeff)

[Spikesgirl]

We had this same question when we went on this cruise earlier this year. A more experienced cruiser told us to take at least $50 in $1 and $100 in $5 for tipping and small purchases. This turned out to be some of the best advice we ever received. The cruise documentation usually suggests something like $1 for the driver and $2 for the guide for a 1/2 day tour and $2 and $5 for a full day. We tend to over-tip when we're pleased with the group and usually did $5 and $10 for the full days and $3 (or more) depending upon how much driving was done and $5 for the shorter excursions. They usually prefer the USD because of the hire exchange rate and most people will convert for you if you're making purchases - however, you will get you change back in the local currancy. We always exchanged some walking around money and used the USD for tips.

 

Hope this helps and have a great cruise.

 

Charlie