Tipping Jaunting Cart Drivers, and Bus Tour Guides?

Len,
I'm an American, and live in County Kerry. I spend at least 2 nights a month in Killarney for Toastmasters. I've become friendly with a few of the Jaunting Car drivers. They have told me they love (who wouldn't?) tips, but they do not expect them. I take visitors on rides often and do not tip - they have not given me bad vibes in any instance when i do not tip.

My first tour bus - Ring of Kerry, before i moved here - i had a fantastic elderly man driving, who said he was retired, but they needed him that day so he was driving us spur of the moment. He said "don't tip me! I don't need it as they pay us drivers very well! spend the money in a small village, instead!" and he also said "you can eat there" pointing at a restaurant "and i'll get 1 euro for each of you; or you can go there" pointing to a Centra gas station/food mart "and pay less money.."

This is day trip buses - Ring of kerry tour, dingle tour..... It could very well be different on a bus that is a 10 day tour or such...

Susan
Waterville

Susan,
Your response much appreciated.
Thank you!

In our experience, tips are not expected but are very much appreciated.

I tipped based on service. Unfortunately, our jauntey driver wasn't very good.... he was young and just not all that interested or interesting for that matter. No tip.

We had an excellent guide at the Dunmore caves outside Kilkenny. We tipped.

I think that you are fine to use your discretion

Thanks Sharon!
Here in USA, my thinking is the same re: to tip for good service.