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Vibrant Togitogiga falls with swimming hole on Upolu, Samoa Islands
Martin Valigursky/Shutterstock

Tipping in Samoa: The Samoa Tipping Guide

Tipping in Samoa isn’t a standard practice, but there are still times to leave a little extra.This Samoa tipping guide will help you know when/how much to tip for great service.

Tipping in Samoa

Tipping in Samoa isn’t considered part of the culture, and therefore isn’t a standard practice. This, however, doesn’t mean you never have to tip, as it is considered a nice gesture to leave a little extra when service exceeds expectations. The amount to tip is up to you, but it should be reflective of the service you’ve received. A good rule of thumb is a sincere thank you along with a few dollars goes a long way to show appreciation for outstanding service. Hand the tip directly to the employee to ensure the right person receives it.

Though tipping might not be a standard practice, there are certain times to leave a little extra for great service. This Samoa tipping guide will help you navigate when/where to tip.

Samoa Tipping Guide

Café Server: A tip isn’t expected, but you can round up to show appreciation.

Restaurant Server: Tipping isn’t obligatory and is not expected by servers, but exceptional service can be recognized with a little extra cash. Hand the tip directly to the server to ensure it goes to the right person.

Bartender: There’s no obligation to tip at a bar, but rounding up is a nice way to show appreciation for great service.

Tour Guides: It’s considerate to tip your local guide, especially one who goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Give 5 to 10 percent of the tour cost to show appreciation. Hand the tip directly to the guide to ensure it goes to the right person.

Taxis: A tip isn’t required, but a few dollars for help with luggage or directions is always appreciated. Keep in mind that taxis are not metered, so a fare should be negotiated before departing.

Doorman: It isn’t customary to tip, but exceptional service might deserve a little extra.

Bellhop: It isn’t customary to tip, but a few dollars for helping with luggage is a nice gesture.

Housecleaning: It isn’t customary to tip, but a few dollars for keeping the room clean is a nice way to say thank you. Hand the tip directly to the employee to ensure it goes to the right person.

Concierge: It isn’t customary to tip, but stellar service might deserve a few dollars.

Stylist: It isn’t obligatory to tip, but give a few dollars if thrilled with the new look. Hand the tip directly to the stylist to ensure it goes to the right person.

Spa Service Provider: Tipping is not obligatory, but you can leave a few dollars for exceptional service. Hand the tip directly to the provider to ensure it goes to the right person.

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Information confirmed by The Samoa Tourism Authority.

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