When and how much should I tip?

The three situations where you'll be likely to someone involve transportation, hospitality and food service.

When riding in a yellow cab or a private car you should give a 15% or greater tip for good service. At your hotel you will want to tip staff at least $2 per bag for helping you up to your room. You also want to tip at least $2 per day to the cleaning staff (leave the tip on the dresser) at end of your stay.

If you're being served drinks at a bar, bartenders and table servers usually expect at least $1 per drink, paid when the drinks are purchased. Tip 15% or more for good service at a sit down restaurant.

Don't feel intimidated into leaving ridiculously large tips. And don't hesitate to reduce your tip if you receive poor service.