Dumb European tipping question

[Koshlong]

Okay, this really seems stupid, but I was wondering.... I've only cruised from North American ports; now we're going to the Med:o. I'm wondering..for tipping ship staff for things such as room service, do I use Euros or US dollars? I suspect they'd look at loonies and twonies very strangely.

[jhannah]

While they will graciously accept any currency, US Dollars are their unit of currency of choice.

[stag]

I suspect they'd look at loonies and twonies very strangely.
Coins of any currency are useless outside of your home country.

[Koshlong]

Very true, Stag. That's why I thought Euros might be preferable in Europe.

[rochelle_s]

I often tip in the currency based on were the ship is sailing, especially when on a ship that is re-positioning to a new area. If the ship is cruising the med I am sure the crew would appreciate being tipped in euros. If they use this money for personal spending ashore then tipping in US dollars would mean they lose as soon as they convert it to euros. The exchange rate onboard and at exchange offices close to the ports often are not the greatest. If you have left over euros at the end of your trip I would definately use them and/or US funds. Bring your loonies and toonies home with you and start saving for the next trip.

Have a great cruise.

Rochelle

[LovetheFall]

Also, remember when you go ashore that in many countries in Europe, a gratuity is automatically added to your bill. Therefore it is customary to just round up to the next euro when you pay your bill. I don't about this for the former Eastern Block nations, but I know this holds true in Germany, France and Italy. But to be sure, research tipping in the ports you will be visiting and have a wonderful cruise.