h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi there, writers of an entry that could well save many a foreign devil's skin! I have a bit of constructive criticism on the "Germany" entry...

Having lived in Germany for the past 10 or so years, I can definitely say that tipping in restaurants is expected, and works as follows:

No tip = "I'm not happy with the service at all"
<10% = "Service was minimal, but not unfriendly"
10% - 15% = "I feel perfectly happy with the service"

Generally, the higher the bill, the further you move down from 15%-10% íf you're happy with the service. That's really up to what your definition of "higher" is - I'd say around €50 upwards.

There are regional differences, such as tips in the South-Western part of Germany topping out at somewhere between 5 and 10 Euros.

Anyway, thanks for the informative entry, I'll have to take another look at it before my next trip to a land far, far away...

As a German, I can confirm that this is the most accurate information on restaurant tipping in Germany to be found anywhere. If you follow it, you will never make a mistake.

Hi as another German, I would disagree. Depending on the restaurant 5-10 % of a tip is fine. I don't know anybody who pay 15% except some American tourists. DOn't forget they already get 10% as a tip and they have got many customers. Cheers, electryfingdanny123

In addition to the amount to tip, do we leave the tip (cash?) on the table like we normally do in the US, or ....? How about in hotel?