Etiquette & taboos

Take five minutes to read this before you go. We sort local rules into three levels: red lines that are illegal or can get you refused entry, taboos that are legal but easily offend locals, and good manners that show respect. Every rule has a source and is marked as verified or not.

Red lineIllegal, or can get you refused entry · 85 rules TabooNot illegal, but easily offends locals · 23 rules Good mannersRespect local ways and earn a smile · 5 rules

TabooTippingUnited States

USA: tipping is almost always expected

Restaurants with table service: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill
Bartenders: US$1–2 a drink, or 15–20% of the bill
Taxis: 15–20% of the fare, at least US$1
Hotel housekeeping: US$2–5 a day

Not tipping at restaurants with table service

Not illegal, but seen as very rude.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: Emily Post Institute: tipping guide

Good mannersTippingAustralia

Australia: tipping is not required

When service is especially good, round up or leave a small tip

Feeling bad about not leaving a tip

There is no penalty; Australian wages do not depend on tips.

Not yet verifiedSource: Mozo: tipping in Australia

Good mannersTippingJapan

There is no tipping in Japan

Say thank you with 'arigatō gozaimashita'

Pressing loose change on staff

Japan is a no-tipping country and bills usually include service; if you press a tip on staff, some will politely refuse.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: JNTO: Japanese table manners