How much to tip in Luxor
Hey there, globetrotter! So, you've set your sights on the awe-inspiring city of Luxor, Egypt? Brilliant choice! Just imagine discovering treasures from ancient pharaohs, strolling along the Nile, and gazing at colossal stone giants. But before you swap your briefcase for a backpack, it's important to understand the local customs and etiquette—especially when it comes to gratuity, that little extra "thank you" we leave at restaurants, bars, and taxis. So, let's dive in!
How much to tip at restaurants
Dining in Luxor is an experience like no other—from fresh falafel to mouthwatering stuffed pigeons, the culinary delights are endless. When it comes to showing your appreciation, a rule of thumb is to tip around 10-15% of the bill. If the service has been really exemplary, you can nudge it towards the higher end, but never feel obligated. Remember, even the Pharaohs wouldn't have tipped for subpar service!
How much to tip at coffee shops
Ah, who can resist a rich Arabic coffee while catching your breath between sightseeing tours! Luxor's coffee shops, brimming with aromatic beans and warm hospitality, are the perfect retreats. A tip at these caffeine heavens is not as sizeable as those in restaurants—usually, 1-2 Egyptian Pounds per cup is enough to display your gratitude. And yes, if you happen to partake in a traditional shisha, a little extra won’t be amiss!
How much to tip at bars
Whether you're unwinding after a day exploring Karnak or sipping a cocktail by the Nile, tipping at bars should be a breeze. The protocol here is similar to coffee shops: around 1-2 Egyptian Pounds per drink. If you've found a favorite bartender who mixes your gin and tonic just right, or keeps the local stories flowing better than beer, then do feel free to tip a bit more.
How much to tip in a taxi
A friendly word of advice—brace yourself for the fascinating chaos that is Luxor's roads! Taxi drivers here are experts in labyrinths of narrow lanes and traffic that makes a carnival look tame. A good rule here is to round up your fare to the nearest 5 or 10 Pounds. For instance, if the fare was 37 Pounds, a tip amount of 3 would make it an even 40. It's simple, appreciated, and hey, it's one less coin jingling in your pocket!
Should you tip with card or cash
Finally, the million-dollar question—should you scatter your gratitude digitally or stick to the traditional route? In Luxor, and most of Egypt in fact, cash is king. Many establishments do accept cards, but tipping with cash is usually easier and far more practical. It's an instant acknowledgement of services rendered, so keep the change handy!
Never underestimate the power of a well-timed tip, fellow wanderers—it's a simple way to respect local customs and contribute to the local economy. So pack your bags, keep your Pounds ready, and I'd say you're all set to explore the spellbinding treasures of Luxor, tipping in style!
