tipping tour guides

[Ruthie2]

What is the recommended amount to tip the tour guide and driver on private tours? We will be in India and Egypt.

Thanks for your help.

[DawnG]

It is not expected and the locals don't do it. It's okay not to tip there, really, really.

We are so steeped in the tip rip off in the west that it is almost impossible to understand that in some places it just isn't done. Especially India. I know you may feel awkward but smart world travelers try to do what the locals see as normal. If you ask the tour company they will definitely give you a nice big figure. Don't ask and don't tip. It's really, really okay!

 

Rounding up is done in taxis restaurants and such. Leave the few coins that would take you to the next rupee, HK$, Singapore $ or whatever.