Is it mandatory for travelers to tip in Vietnam?

No, though they welcome them especially in tourist regions and hospitality services, the Vietnamese people do not need tips. Although most Vietnamese people do not tip during ordinary transactions, visitors to tourist destinations can think about giving little tips to show their gratitude for first-rate service.

When and where to tip in Vietnam?

Restaurants and cafes

High-end restaurants may add 5%–10% service charge to bills yet this money does not guarantee it will reach the staff members.
The practice of tipping is not customary in traditional local eateries.
The preferred tip amount in mid-range restaurants ranges between 10,000 – 50,000 VND ($0.50 – $2).

Hotels

Bellboys and Porters: 20,000 – 50,000 VND ($1 – $2) per bag.
Housekeeping: Leaving 10,000 to 20,000 VND ($0.50 to $1) every night in the guest room is a considerate gesture for the housekeeping crew.
Concierge Services: When concierge employees provide outstanding help, it becomes important to tip them.

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Although taxi drivers don't ask for gratuities, customers typically round up their fares by stating "keep the change" and offering 100,000 VND rather than 95,000 VND.
Users of Grab can provide tips through the app interface.

Tour guides and drivers

Tour guides: 100,000 – 200,000 VND ($4 – $8) per day.
Drivers: 50,000 – 100,000 VND ($2 – $5) per day.

Spas and salons

A 5% to 10% tip on the total bill represents the standard practice for excellent service.

When not to tip?

Street food stalls together with small eateries do not expect tips from customers.
The government employees working in visa offices and police departments do not permit tips.

Conclusion: Tipping mandatory in Vietnam

Providing tips in Vietnam is not required but it remains a proper way for customers to express gratitude when they receive excellent service at hotels, restaurants and tour services. Small tips can improve the experience but service providers never expect or require tips.

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