Good Morning – First Time in Australia and at This Resort: Can Someone Kindly Explain Tipping Here?
Hi everyone, and good morning!
This is my very first time visiting Australia—and also my first time staying at this resort—so I’m still finding my feet and trying to understand how things work here. I’m absolutely loving the scenery, the friendly people, and the relaxed vibe. Everything has been amazing so far, but I do have one small question I was hoping someone could kindly help me with.
How does tipping work in Australia, especially at resorts like this one?
Back home, tipping is a pretty standard part of our daily interactions with staff in hospitality—restaurants, housekeeping, bellhops, drivers, etc. But I’ve heard that tipping in Australia is a bit different, and I definitely don’t want to come off as rude or inappropriate by doing the wrong thing.
So far, the service here has been wonderful. Everyone has been so polite, helpful, and professional. I’d really like to show my appreciation in the right way. But I’ve noticed there are no tip jars at the cafes or bars, and the payment terminals don’t seem to prompt for tips the way they do in other countries.
From what little I’ve read, it seems that tipping is not expected or required in Australia the same way it is in the U.S. or some other countries. I understand that staff here are paid a living wage, which is great to hear. But that leaves me wondering: is it ever customary to tip for exceptional service? For example:
Should I leave a few dollars for housekeeping each day?
Is it okay (or odd) to tip a server or bartender?
What about a porter or someone helping with bags?
Is tipping considered generous, or can it accidentally come across as awkward or unnecessary?
I don’t mind tipping at all—in fact, I want to be respectful and do the right thing for the local culture. I just don’t want to overstep or make anyone uncomfortable.
If any fellow guests, locals, or staff are reading this and wouldn’t mind sharing your perspective, I’d be truly grateful. I’m here for a little over a week, so I’d love to get this right from the beginning.
And again, thank you to everyone at the resort who’s already made me feel welcome. It’s a beautiful place, and I’m so excited to explore more of what Australia has to offer.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
(P.S. I also welcome any other local tips — no pun intended — about customs, things to do, or must-try foods while I’m here!)
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