Cambodia, known for its stunning temples, rich culture, and warm hospitality, is a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia. While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated in a country where many workers earn modest wages. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, staying at a hotel, or taking a tuk-tuk ride, knowing the appropriate tipping etiquette can enhance your experience while supporting the local community. Here’s a complete guide on how much to tip in Cambodia.

Tipping at Restaurants and Cafés

Tipping at restaurants in Cambodia is not always expected, but it is welcomed, especially in tourist areas.

• High-end and mid-range restaurants: A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary if service is not already included.
• Local eateries and street food vendors: Tipping is not expected, but leaving small change (around 1,000-2,000 KHR or $0.25-0.50 USD) is a nice gesture.
• Cafés and coffee shops: Leaving the change from your bill or rounding up by $0.50-1 USD is appreciated.

Tipping Hotel Staff

Hotel staff in Cambodia work hard to provide great service, and tipping them can make a meaningful difference.

• Bellhops and porters: $1-2 USD per bag is a standard tip.
• Housekeeping: Leaving $1-2 USD per night is a good practice, especially for longer stays.
• Concierge: If the concierge provides helpful recommendations or assistance, tipping $2-5 USD is a kind gesture.
• Room service: If a service charge is not included, tipping $1-2 USD per meal is appropriate.
• Spa and wellness staff: A 10% tip for massages and spa treatments is appreciated if service is excellent.

Tipping Tuk-Tuk and Taxi Drivers

Public transportation in Cambodia primarily consists of tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and app-based ride services.

• Tuk-tuks: Tipping is not required, but rounding up the fare or adding $1 USD for a longer ride is a nice gesture.
• Taxi drivers: If using a metered taxi, rounding up or tipping $1-2 USD is appreciated.
• Rideshare services (PassApp, Grab): Tipping is not expected but rounding up the fare is common.
• Private drivers: If you hire a driver for a full-day tour, tipping $5-10 USD for a day of excellent service is standard.

Tipping Tour Guides and Excursion Staff

Tour guides and excursion staff rely heavily on tips, especially in tourist hotspots like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

• Group tours: Tipping $3-5 USD per person for a half-day tour and $5-10 USD per person for a full-day tour is customary.
• Private tour guides: If you have a dedicated guide, tipping $10-20 USD per day is a generous and well-appreciated amount.
• Drivers on guided tours: If a driver is separate from the guide, tipping $5-10 USD per day is a great way to show appreciation.
• Boat excursions: Crew members appreciate $2-5 USD per person for short trips and $5-10 USD per person for full-day tours.

Tipping at Spas and Salons

Spas and salons are popular in Cambodia, especially in tourist areas.

• Massage therapists and spa staff: Tipping $2-5 USD or 10% of the bill is appreciated for good service.
• Hairdressers and beauty salons: A 10% tip or $1-2 USD for small services like a haircut or manicure is common.

Tipping Grocery Baggers and Gas Attendants

Certain service jobs in Cambodia rely on small gratuities.

• Grocery store baggers: Many work for tips, so leaving 500-1,000 KHR or $0.25 USD is common.
• Gas station attendants: If they check your oil or clean your windshield, tipping $1 USD is a kind gesture.

Tipping Street Performers and Musicians

Cambodia has a thriving arts and music scene, and tipping performers is encouraged.

• Street musicians and performers: If you enjoy a performance, tipping $1-2 USD is appreciated.
• Live bands at restaurants: If a service charge is not included, an extra $2-5 USD for musicians is generous.

Final Tipping Tips for Cambodia

• Carry small bills. Many service workers appreciate tips in local currency (Cambodian riel) or small USD denominations.
• Check your bill. Some restaurants and hotels include a service charge, so tipping extra is optional.
• Be discreet. Tipping should be done politely and respectfully, without drawing too much attention.
• Round up when in doubt. If you’re unsure how much to tip, rounding up the bill is a simple and acceptable approach.

Conclusion

Tipping in Cambodia is not mandatory, but it is a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service. By following these tipping guidelines, you can enjoy a smooth and respectful experience while supporting hardworking locals. Understanding local customs will enhance your trip and leave a positive impact. Happy travels!