Escorted Group Tours
Tipping is customary in Central Asia as recognition of exceptional service.In order to avoid any inconvenience, Wendy Wu Tours operates a tipping policy where a set amount (in USD) is given to the National Escort who will distribute the amount appropriately throughout your tour.
On multi-country tours, the tipping amount will be paid in stages on arrival in each country. If you are travelling in a smaller group with local guides only, then tipping is paid in each destination. To be fair to the guides we ask for slightly higher amounts per traveller with small groups.
The amount for the kitty is calculated for each tour depending on the length, group size and services used during the trip. The tipping kitty will cover drivers, local guides, porters, waiters and sight entry throughout the whole tour. Tipping amounts will be included in your final documents and will specify the exact tipping amount for your group.
Porterage to your room is not included. Additional tipping for luggage porterage to your room is at your discretion, however we recommend US$1-2.
Additional tipping
In participating in optional excursions, you will also need to consider additional discretionary tipping for any local guide/vendor/driver who is involved in such activities.
For Independent Travellers, or group passengers with pre/post tour arrangements
Restaurants: It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. Some upscale restaurants may already include a service charge.
Hotels: For hotel staff, such as porters and housekeeping, a tip of USD$1 - 2 per service is appreciated.
Drivers: For drivers, we recommend USD$5 as a gesture of appreciation
Guides: For tour guides and safari guides, tipping around USD$10 – USD$15 per person / per day is customary, depending on the level of service and the length of the tour.