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HOW TO TIP IN CAMBODIA
In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette which is ingrained in all trades, from the wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades. Tipping in Thailand is not customary and there are no requirements to tip anyone, leaving a small gratuity for great service is appreciated, but unlike other parts of the world, you will never see a Thai service provider with their hand out expecting to be tipped.
The questions `when?` and `how much?` that surround tipping can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis. It is not necessary to tip in Cambodia although individuals in the service industry will greatly appreciate a few dollars. Tipping is not part of the culture here in Cambodia, but tips go a long way due to the low salaries that workers receive
The currency in Cambodia is the Riel (KHR), US dollars are accepted and normally preferred, US$1 is the equivalent to 4,000 Riel. Most businesses will display their prices in US dollars.
Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Riel?The units of currency in Cambodia are the Riel (KHR) and US dollars are accepted and preferred at most places in the service industry such as hotels, shops, etc and places will set and show their prices in US dollars. The exchange rate is around KHR $4,000 to USD$1 and the riel is a non-convertible currency so you can only exchange from Cambodian currency within Cambodia. Be sure to have Riel in hand as small change will come in useful for small purchases along with transportation, street food, etc. Most major credit cards are accepted at major hotels, restaurants and souvenir shops. ATMs can be found in the city and normally dispense in US dollars.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?At Restaurants in Cambodia, there is not a standard amount to tip, a good guide would be to tip at least 10% of the total bill, leaving more is also appreciated but that is your choice based on the service received. If you are not satisfied with the service don`t feel obligated to leave anything at all.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?At hotels in Cambodia a general rule is to tip the bellman US$1 - $2 per bag, they actually consider the dollar to be good luck. Generally, US$1 - $2 a day for housekeeping is sufficient.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?Tipping a taxi driver in Cambodia is generally up to the passenger, the drivers do not expect to be tipped but due to low wages, they will greatly appreciate any amount you give them. Leaving a few US dollars on top of your fare or rounding up the fare is a good rule of thumb.
Tour Guides: Is a tip required?A good guide to use for tipping tour guides in Cambodia would be to leave about 10% of your total fare and a few dollars for the driver. Normally around US$10 - $15 for a day tour and US$3 - $5 for the driver.
Tipping at spas in Cambodia is optional; leaving a tip for their service is much appreciated and will go a long way. Even leaving a few US dollars would be appreciated. Leaving 10 - 15% of your total bill is a good guide.
Final Thoughts: Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. This is also true for hotel staff, however, if you should encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager. When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.