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How much to tip in Medan

Before we get into tipping, you may want to know the value of your money in Medan Indonesia, no not just the exchange rates.

Minimum Wage in Medan
This is a guide to the value of money ( tipping ) in Medan. The standard minimum wage in Medan is roughly Rp980.000 a month which is around Rp38.000 (USD 4.00 ) a day. Some smaller shop and service industry even pays lower than minimum pay like Rp500.000 / month.So you can measure how much your tips are worth.

There are many times, tourists are the victims of extortion in Indonesia, hence, takes extra precaution. The amount of Rp 50.000 is a big sum as tips in Indonesia, hence do not fall into the trap.

Tipping at Restaurants & Hotels
Many restaurants and Hotels inn Medan have the standard 10% service charge plus tax directly charged to your bill. So technically, you are not required to give any extra.
Nevertheless, if you are feeling well served and generous, you may want to give extra tips to the waiters or waitresses.
There are no hard and fast rules on how much to tip in Medan compared to USA where 25% of your bill is expected.

For restaurants, the standard tipping is around Rp 5.000 to Rp 10.000. You may give more if you bring more guests. Rp20.000 should be a big tip.
Hotel porters and bellboys, probably the same aroung Rp5.000 to Rp10.000 depending on the amount of luggages you have for them to help you with.

Tour & Tour Guide
If you took a vacation package to Medan, you may be faced with Tour Guides: I would suggests Rp 50.000 each, for the driver and the guide ( for private tours ). This is based on the standard 3D2N tours. If you feel that you would like to show your appreciation, then really it’s up to each individual. If you are traveling on a group tour, then this should be optional.

Taxi Driver:
This is not expected. But sometimes due to the limited amount of change Indonesia such as the Rp100, Rp500 coins. You may just let them keep the change.

Airport:
Although it is clearly stated that the porter charges Rp 2.000 for each bag, many expect more of about Rp5.000 for each bag now (yes they will ask for more).
So be prepared. There was once, I was feeling generous and gave Rp20.000 for 3 bags and they still ask for more!
You will need the help of the porter if you have many luggages.

Remember, tipping in Kota Medan should be based on your own appreciation of service you received and your own financial ability. The amount stated here is just a general guide.

For the latest news and buzz on Medan Indonesia in Indonesia, please visit www.MedanTalk.com where you can find out more about Medan from the locals

You can also download special city guide and budget travel guide at MedanKu.com - The Pride of Medan Indonesia