On a recent RS trip, one of the participants wanted everyone to contribute $80 to tip the leader, her assistant, the driver and the tour guide. I felt very uncomfortable. Would it be possible to have the RS leaders remind the group that tipping is included in the price?
I'm with TravelHound. I have had a time or two when that happened and I just say in a voice loud enough for others to hear it that Road Scholar says tips are included in the cost of the program. This would be out of the guide's hearing, of course.
If I tip, it's because I want to give them something extra for going above and beyond for me. I don't discuss it with anyone and I take a greeting card with me so that I can be discreet.
I hope the program leader and staff did not start this off by indicating they expected tips?!?
~Pam