Hi guys, I am just wondering if you can suggest the correct protocol for tipping the driver & guide on a private safari for a family of four. Would it be quite expensive for us? We are very happy to tip the driver & guide, but we would like to know how to tip in China, because I do not want to pay either too little or too much. How much have guys paid recently to be reasonable? We are planning to travel to China in February, 2015. Many thanks in advance, Willow.

Dear Willow,

Thanks for leaving your message on our site. The tipping is not mandatory however is now widely accepted and expected by tour guides, hotel staff and tour bus or car drivers in many cities in China, in recognition of their good service. In some restaurants of big cities, if no tip is added to the bill, a 10 to 15 percent tip is advisable. Books and personal items, as well as money, are appropriate tips for guides and drivers. But I think they prefer money to other things.

Here, we just offer the example of tipping for your reference, but of cause it is based on the service has truly satisfied you. For 1 client: RMB 150-200 per person per day for local guide; For 2 clients: RMB 100 per person per day, 3-5 clients RMB 60-70 per person per day and 6-9 people in a group: RMB 40-50 per day per person for local guide, The driver would be half of the amount, and separate offer to each is best. Usually tipping for luggage porter or bellboy in the hotel is about CNY10 per bag. And also RMB 10 for room service in the hotel. The above is just an suggestion, you can offer your tip as per the actual situation.

You mentioned that you are planning to visit China in February, 2015, have you booked tour package through travel agencies yet? Or you organize the tour on your own? Top China Travel is the foremost online wholesaler of high-quality China in-bound tour services for tourists from all over the world. We offer an extensive range of services including organized and independent tours of China. Would you like us to quote for your China trip, so that you can consider to book it from us or not? If yes, some details about your China trip are needed as follow.

1) How many people will travel together?
2) Which places would you like to visit in China?
3) What kind of hotel would you like to stay in? 5 star for deluxe, 4 star for comfortable or 3 star for budget hotel?
4) How many days would you like to stay in China?

Hope the above is clear and helpful. Look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. I always receive your message with great pleasure!