Tipping in Bali
Whilst not mandatory, tipping is often welcomed, especially by tourism-related workers where wages can be modest. That said, many service providers already include a service fee in their prices, so before opening your wallet, it helps to understand how pricing and tipping work in Bali.
What is “++” Pricing?
You will often see prices listed as “++” on menus, hotel rates, or spa brochures. This means additional taxes and service charges will be added on top of the listed price. Generally the level of tax and service are:
· +10% Government tax (mandatory across Indonesia)
· +5–10% Service charge (goes to the staff or establishment)
If a menu item says “100,000 IDR ++”, expect to pay around 115,000–120,000 IDR when finalising the bill.
· Pro Tips:
o It is definitely wise to check the fine print on menus and brochures to avoid a nasty sting when it comes to paying the final bill. If in doubt, it is fine to ask the staff in advance.
o Be aware that some high end restaurants and spas will add 21% to the total total. What goods and services seem relatively affordable on the menu can be similar to Western prices after these fees and taxes are added.
o Most local warungs will not add any taxes or service fees.
Is Tipping Still Expected?
Tipping is not required, especially when a service fee is already included. If the service has been particularly good, a small cash tip is a nice way to say thank you and is genuinely appreciated. Some establishments share tips amongst all staff and others let individuals keep what is given to them.
· Pro Tips:
o I have generally found workers in Bali to be honest about how they handle tips, so with this in mind, unless there is an obvious “tip jar” somewhere, I recommend giving the tip directly to the staff member to keep or share.
When and Where to Tip in Bali
· Restaurants and Cafés
o If your bill includes “++” or states a service charge, tipping is not required.
o If there is no service fee, consider leaving 5 to10% of the bill if you feel you have received good service.
o Many EFTPOS and credit card machines will have an amount you can nominate to automatically add to the bill.
o Even if a service charge is included, giving a small cash tip to your server (Rp10 to 20,000 is reasonable) is good practice.
· Local Warungs
o Tipping is not expected.
o You can round up the bill or leave Rp 5 to10,000 if the service or food was good.
· Taxis and Rideshare Drivers
o In regulated and metered Bluebird taxis, tipping is not expected, however rounding up the fare is common. Same can apply for Gojek and Grab transfers or food deliveries.
· Private drivers
o A tip of Rp 50 to 100,000 is generous.
· Hotels and Villas
o Porters will usually make Rp 2 to 5,000 per bag.
o Housekeeping staff definitely work hard and I would advocate tipping a small amount (up to RP 20,000 is reasonable) each day. Just leave on your bed if going out in the morning – often the staff are so honest they will place on the table after they finish, thinking you have dropped it, so I always leave a thankyou note.
o In private villas, if you have stayed a few days, RP 100-200,000 is common to leave when you checkout. If they have performed additional duties such as cooking or driving, I recommend paying for this at the time of service.
· Spas and Hair Salons
o Some upmarket spas include a service charge. If not, tip 10 to 15% discreetly to the service provider.
o Many places have a tip jar at reception or place an envelope on the massage bed.
Final Tips
· Always check your bill to see if a service fee is already included.
· “++” means fees and taxes are added and you can expect up to 21% extra at some places.
· A small cash tip directly to staff is more meaningful than tipping via card.
· Tip based on your experience, not out of obligation.
· Balinese do not require a tip similar to what you may give in your home country. Whilst many people feel comparatively “rich” in Bali, handing over a Rp 50,000 or Rp 100,000 tip to a spa worker or wait staff is indirectly rewarding their employer for keeping wages low.
Summary
| Service or Venue | Tipping Suggestion |
| Restaurant or cafe | · 5 to 10% if no service fee· Optional if included, say Rp 20,000 |
| Local Warung | · Not expected, round up if you wish |
| Taxis | · Not expected, round up if you wish |
| Rideshare | · Rp 2-5,000 will be well received |
| Private Driver | · Rp 50-100,000 for a full day |
| Hotels and Villas | · Porters: Rp 2-5,000 per bag· Housekeeping: Rp 20,000 per day· Villa Manager: Rp 100-200,000 at the end of your stay |
| Spa and Hair Salons | · If no service fee, add 10 to 15% to the bill or hand to the staff |
| Shops (supermarket, clothing and markets) | · No tipping is required |
Tipping in Bali is appreciated but not required, especially when “++” pricing already covers service. Use your discretion, trust your instincts, and tip an appropriate amount when it feels right is a good set of rules to follow.
