The travel magazine for people who love to travel
Who Expects a Tip? Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the Pacific
In Tokyo a tip can be handed straight back, while in Cape Town and on a Kenyan safari it is part of someone's wage. Here is how tipping really works across more than 20 countries, from service charges on the bill to car guards and trekking porters.
October 29, 2026
Tipping in Latin America: Mexico to Argentina, Country by Country
Shopping in the Philippines: Malls, Markets and What to Bring Home
Best Time to Visit the Philippines: Seasons, Typhoons and Islands
Jerk, Conch and Ti' Punch: Eating the Caribbean Island by Island
Destinations
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Best Time to Visit the Caribbean, and the Truth About Hurricane Season
Shopping in Nepal: What to Buy, Where, and How to Spot the Fakes
Food in Nepal: From Kathmandu Momos to Dal Bhat at Base Camp
Best Time to Visit Nepal: Trekking Seasons, Monsoon and Festivals
Shopping in Vietnam: Hoi An Tailors, Night Markets and the Best Buys
Themes
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Travel Styles
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Trekking in Nepal: How to Choose Between Everest, Annapurna and More
Everest Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, Langtang or a few days on Poon Hill? The big Himalayan treks differ more than their names suggest, and the rules for independent trekkers have changed. Here is how they compare.
Which Mexican Beach Town Is Right for You? Caribbean vs Pacific
Cancún or Cabo, Tulum or Puerto Vallarta, Holbox or Huatulco? Mexico's two coasts offer very different beach holidays, and the right choice depends on who you are and when you travel.
Travel Tips
See all travel tipsIs Mexico Safe? A State-by-State Guide, Plus Belize and Roatán
Mexico's safety warnings range from "normal precautions" to "do not travel," sometimes within a few hours' drive. Here is what the U.S. and UK advisories actually say about Cancún, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta and other favorites, which everyday risks matter more, and how Belize and Roatán compare.
Money in Mexico and Central America: Pesos, Dollars and Real Costs
Dollars work almost everywhere from Cancún to Roatán, but they are rarely the cheapest way to pay. Here is how currencies, ATMs, cards and prices really work in Mexico's resort towns, Belize, Honduras and Costa Rica.
Tipping in the USA and Canada: Who to Tip, How Much and Why
A blank tip line, a card reader suggesting 25 percent, a service charge you almost missed. For visitors used to service being included, North American tipping is full of unwritten rules. Here is how it really works, from Las Vegas to Montreal.
Tipping in the Caribbean: How Much to Tip, Island by Island
A 15 percent line already on the bill, a resort that forbids tips, a law that sets the gratuity for you. Tipping in the Caribbean changes from island to island, and the habits from home do not always fit.
