We'll be travelling Toronto-Vancouver-Toronto on the Canadien this October. What are (if any) the tipping guidelines for attendants, waiters. We will be in a two-person bedroom. Thanks in advance .
Posted by David (Member # 3) on :
Unlike cruise companies, Via does not give any advice on the subject of tipping other than a discreet "Gratuities at your discretion" which appears in an occasional brochure. Even the Service Managers are reluctant to answer requests for suggestions (until you get to know them well.) From my considerable experience on this fine train, the usual or average amount given to a sleeping car attendant is (Can.)$5 per night per passenger. Don't hesitate to give more if you have requested a lot of room service or to give less if service is substandard, although that rarely is the case. October is still peak season and, as coach passengers cannot eat in the first class dining cars because there simply isn't any room for them (they have a separate coffee shop in the forward dome car), there will be no prices on the menus to help you calculate an appropriate tip. In the off-season, when everyone eats in the dining car, the full-course menu prices average: breakfast - $8; lunch - $10; dinner - $20. So if you tip 15% of these amounts and on any bar or wine purchases, you will please the crew.
Remember that the on-board crew change in Winnipeg, so it is appropriate to tip your sleeper attendant at that time as well as the other attendant when you get to the end of your trip. Dining car and bar staff are normally tipped at each meal, just as you would in a restaurant. Enjoy your trip. October is a busy month and expect at least 12 sleepers, two diners and four dome cars on your train.
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