Friday, April 11, 2014

Who should I tip?

Who should I tip?
            and HOW MUCH??!!.............................

  

     Many people find it confusing as to who to tip and how much. There are no real "rules" for tipping, and the etiquette of it really depends on the individual. Besides many different opinions on who and how much to tip, customs can also vary by countries.  Ask a dozen people when and how much they tip, and you'll get a dozen different answers. Although there are no set rules for tipping, here are some guidelines to help you understand who we should tip and how much they should receive. After browsing several different sites I was able to gather what the average tip should be.
    

Food Service

Bartender
$1/drink (or 15% of total bill).
Delivery person
10%, $2 minimum
Takeout
No tip required unless something special is done
Waiter
15% for adequate service, 20% for exceptional service. For poor service, leave 10% or less. If the service was extremely poor do not leave a tip.
Hotel Staff
Bellman/Porter
$1 to $2 per bag, $5 minimum.
Concierge
$5-$20 depending on the service. $20 if he does something exceptional. Nothing for directions.
Housekeeper
$2 to $5 per night, paid daily or as a lump sum at checkout.
Parking Valet
$2 to $5 when your car is retrieved.
Room service
$5 minimum (unless gratuity is included in check)
Travel
Bus driver (not mass transit)
$1 to $2, if he handles luggage
Cab driver
10%, $2-$5 minimum
Chauffeur
10-15%
Gas station attendant
Nothing. (If you received great service $2-$4)

Personal service
Barber/Hairstylist
10-15% and $5 to each individual who shampoos or blow-dries your hair!
Manicurist
10-15%
Spa service
10-15%
Masseuse
10-15%
Shoe-shiner
$2 or $3
Other
Coat checker
Most sites recommend $1-$2 per coat upon retrieval.
Furniture deliverer
Most $5-$20 or atleast offer them a cold drink.
Grocery store bagger
One site recommended $1-$3, though I’ve never seen one tipped in my life.
Mover
$10-$25 per person

Some points regarding tipping etiquette: Information provided by http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/10/12/basic-tips-on-tipping-how-much-and-to-whom/
  • If you use a coupon or gift certificate, calculate your tip based on the total before discount.
  • Tip above the norm if:
    • Service is exceptional,
    • You’ve been a burden, or
    • You are a regular client.
  • Don’t tip if it’s not deserved. Poor service should not be rewarded.
  • In some circumstances, if you offer an initial tip — especially a large initial tip — you’ll get better service.
  • If you take up a restaurant table for a long time, tip extra.
  • Tip discreetly.
  • When in doubt, tip.

    






Thursday, April 10, 2014

Strawberries A natural skin care remedy

Strawberries   
        A natural Skin Care Remedy   



  

     We all know that strawberries are delicious to eat but did you know that strawberries are also great for your skin? Strawberries have Vitamin C which helps to keep the skin’s elasticity and helps renew skin cells. Strawberries are also a great skin cleanser. The seeds from the strawberries acts as an exfoliate while the Salicylic acid in strawberries help remove dead skin cells from your face, tightening the pores. Here are 3 great benefits of using strawberries on your skin.
 
  1. Natural treatment for acne: Vitamin C and salicylic acid in strawberries help to clear up acne and reduces oily skin. Facial mask made with fresh strawberries are great for people with damaged skin or acne prone skin. It will also give dull skin a wonderful glow. If you have dull, damaged or acne prone skin, you may benefit from the following home made facial mask.  Blend the following ingredients together: 6 medium strawberries, 1/2 cup of yogurt, 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of almond oil. Use a cheap or old concealer brush to evenly apply to your skin. Leave mask on for 10-15 minutes or until completely dry. Rinse with cool water and pat skin dry. Follow up with your favorite moisturizer. This strawberry treatment should be done at least three times a week to get rid of acne naturally. Place unused facial mask in a air tight container. Facial mask can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
  2. Great Exfoliate: Strawberries are an excellent exfoliate. A strawberry scrub is a great way to remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft and moisturized. You can prepare a strawberry scrub by pureeing 6 to 8 strawberries and mixing them with two cups of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Gently massage into dry, rough skin using a circular motion. Wash off with clean cold water and follow up with your favorite moisturizer. If you do not know how to puree strawberries please view the below video. (I do not own any rights to the below video)
  3. Reduces puffiness under eyes:  Strawberries can reduce puffiness and circles beneath the eyes. Simply cut strawberries into this slices and place the strawberry slices under your eyes and relax for 10 to 12 minutes. Wash your face with cold water and moisturize using your favorite moisturizer.