In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades. The question `when?` or `how much?` can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis. Tipping in the Ivory Coast is part of the culture and tips should be left for servers in restaurants, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides. It is usually acceptable to tip a flat rate of 500-2,000 francs at restaurants, about 1,500 for hotel staff, and round up the change for your taxi driver.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Franc?

The currency in Abidjan is the West African Franc (CFA) “say-fa”, and the smaller pesewa the US dollar is not accepted. You will need to exchange your currency for the West African Franc, which can be done upon arrival at the airport currency exchange desks or banks and specialized stores called Foreign Exchange Bureaus. ATMs can be found in Abidjan, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

When dining in the Ivory Coast a service charge added to your bill is usually added. Leaving a 10% tip is a good guide depending on the service received. The average tipping percentage in restaurants in Cote d’Ivoire is anywhere between 8-15%.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Tipping hotel staff is common and is determined by the level of service received. Leaving a few franc for the bellhop is sufficient and the same for cleaning staff and your concierge. The average tipping percentage is anywhere from 8-20%.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

Tipping your taxi driver a few francs or rounding up the change is sufficient. The average tipping percentage is anywhere from 8-20% depending on the service. Always remember when traveling abroad that it is good practice to agree on a final fare before the cab driver begins driving.

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

Tipping your tour guide in Cote d’Ivoire is common and leaving a 8-20%% tip is appreciated by your tour guide and driver. A tip of 10% per day or the equivalent of $10-$20 is the norm. Miscellaneous: other services

If visiting a spa or hair salon in the Ivory Coast, you should tip up to 10% of the bill if you received great service. You can always tip more if you feel as if the service deserved it.

Final Thoughts:

Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. Unlike in the U.S., waiters are paid a living wage, and the expectations for tipping are lower in Romania than in America. This is also true for hotel staff, though if you encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.

When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.