Tips on Tipping; How to Properly Tip Your Waiter

      Many people seem to be unaware of the proper amount to leave their waiter when going out to eat. They could be from a different country, or just never taught how to tip. There are many reasons why people tip the way they do and I'm here to help make sure all waiters receive the tip they deserve!

      In the article Tipping Advice, Messenger News explains the right way to tip your waiter and how many things are not their fault.

Should Not Effect the Tip:
- If the food is taking a long time.
--- Odds are the kitchen is behind or short a few people. Trust me, your waiter wants to get you in and out as fast as possible so they can make an much money as possible.
- If you don't like your food.
--- Your waiter did not cook your food so it is not their fault if you don't like it. Don't worry, you won't have to pay for something you don't like. Just be honest with us so we can get you something new.
- The prices are too high.
--- If you can't afford to tip then you can't afford to eat out. The minimum you should ever leave your server is 15%, but usually more as long as they were great! If the prices are too high choose a different restaurant.

Should Effect the Tip:
- Rudeness.
--- Your waiter should never give you attitude or be rude no matter how bad their day is. They have to put everything behind them and be friendly.
- Not Attentive.
--- Not getting refills in a timely fashion.
--- Not asking if your food was to your liking and/or trying to get you a new dish.
--- Totally forgetting your appetizer, main course, and not trying to make it up to you.
- Arguing with the guest.
--- Unfortunately the guests are always right, even when they are wrong.

      The price of living has gone up over the past 10-20 years, which is why it is important for people to understand that 10% is not the proper amount to tip anymore (as long as there was nothing wrong with the service). It is important to tip no less then 15% of your check. After all your waitress just served you your drinks, meal, brought you refills, and maybe even coffee and dessert. Also, don't forget that they are doing a lot of work that you don't see such as sometimes making your salads, gathering up your bread, and much more. Waiters only get paid $4.91 an hour so they depend on tips to make a living and help support themselves or their family.

      Tourists always eat out, and living and working in Florida more the half of our clientele seem to be  tourists or snowbirds. Coming from countries such as South America, Europe, and Canada, many are unaware of the tipping procedures in America. In other countries the waiters get paid more money per hour and some don't even accept tips. As a server myself I feel is is very important that when traveling to another country that you are aware of all the different customs that they have, including tipping when going out to eat. No matter if you are an American traveling to another country, or a foreigner traveling to America, you should always know Tipping Guidelines before going.

      If you are still unaware of how to properly tip your waiter or are just "bad at math" download the Tipping Calculator on your smartphone to make sure you always tip what you are suppose to!