I was given a bunch of US dollar bills to use for tipping. If waiters and others received US dollars would they consider that rude? I realize that our dollar is less so I'd have to use more but if I did a decent dollar amount would that be ok?
Posted by
Toledo
653 posts
The problem with tipping in dollars is that the recipient has to exchange them for euros at some point, which involves their paying a conversion fee, and it's hardly worth the trouble for a small amount. Tipping in Italy is usually a matter of "rounding up".
Posted by
Atlanta
800 posts
No. If you would like to leave a tip you should do it in the currency that the country uses.
Posted by
OP
Spokane, WA, USA
23 posts
Pretty much what I thought. I'll just go deposit the money in my account so when I get there I can withdraw it as Euros. Thanks!!
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
I don't think it's a good idea. Why would a waiter want to be tipped in a foreign currency? Would a waiter in Spokane enjoy being tipped in euros?
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23273 posts
That is terrible. Think about. Would somone in Spokane like to be tips in British pounds?
Posted by
Genesee, ID
1840 posts
That is arrogant. I have used American one hundred dollar bills for a driver tip in the Philippines, though.
Posted by
OP
Spokane, WA, USA
23 posts
OK OK - I said that's what I thought. It was a sentimental gift to remember a domestic trip from when I was a little girl. I pretty much figured I'd have to convert it but I thought there's some places that like to get US dollars so I thought I'd check. After all that is what this message board is all about, right? Its pretty apparent from my original question I thought it would be rude.
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
Elaine, just deposit the money in your debit account before you go so you can have access to it through ATM's when in Italy. The exchange rate will be much better than trying to change actual money either here or there. Donna
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Elaine - a lot of posters here have a bad habit of answering threads without reading the posts. So they often repeat and miss the OP coming back to close things out. Try not to think of it as everyone jumping all over you. Enjoy your trip!
Posted by
Bellevue, WA
257 posts
I second to Douglas. Have a good trip.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7562 posts
Maybe more important, tips in Italy are a true gratuity, for very good service, I usually only round up the bill by leaving the coins, at the most, only a few euro. If I feel more is deserved DO NOT just leave more on the table, find your waiter, hand it to them personally with a hearty "Grazie" (or "Grazie Tonto" or "Grazie Mille") and a pat on the back.