RAB Source Entry #2- Diana Perez

Part 1 MLA Citation: Elliott, Christopher. “Perspective | How to Handle Gratuities When You Travel Abroad.” Washington Post, 23 Feb. 2022. www.washingtonpost.com, https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/2022/02/23/gratuities-tips-overseas-international/.

Part 2 Summary: In the passage “How to handle gratitude when you travel abroad” by Christopher Elliot he talks about how while he was on a trip to Europe and the people in Europe made sure to let Elliot know that the people over there depend on the tips that are given to them especially from American tourist. Elliot tells us that employees that work in other countries and those who work in hospitality feel like they have hit a small jackpot when American travelers stop by because of how they tip. Elliot explains how in different parts of the world tips are handled differently. As well Elliot talks about his trip to Azores in Europe. It was explained to him how certain people don’t have to depend on tips, but others do. For example, his tour guide didn’t rely on them but the bus driver who barely knew English had to depend on the tips he was given to take care of his family. Elliot shares how tipping overtime has been controversial. But it is because of the American practice of underpaying employees so they have no choice but to depend on their tips. Elliot shares how in certain countries leaving a tip can be considered offensive.

Part 3 Reflection: In the article it shares on how in certain countries tipping is different. But in certain countries in Europe, they share a same struggles Americans do, they don’t get paid enough which leads them to rely on the tips their customers give them. And I totally agree with the writer. Employees shouldn’t have to rely on their tips, they should get paid more hourly because everyone’s opinion on tips can be different. This source helps explain how tipping depends on the society in the country. The writer helped me realize that the amount of the tip depends on the person and that’s what is the problem all over the world.

Part 4 Rhetorical Analysis: This article has been written to inform people, especially travelers, of the difference in tipping internationally. The article includes pathos to make the readers feel empathetic toward these workers who rely on their tips. The author wants readers to walk away being informed of the unfairness hospitality workers from other countries receive when it comes to relying on tips from Americans. The author says that tipping is out generosity but is very helpful and will help your server immensely.

Part 5: Notable quotable

“They told me that many tourism workers had started to rely on gratuities, particularly from Americans” (Elliot)

“Anyone working abroad in any hospitality capacity perks up when they encounter American travelers- only because we tip 15 to 20 percent above our café tabs and dinner checks” (Dulles)

“our tipping customs are spreading by the outsize influence of American travelers and now by the pandemic hardship. But that doesn’t always mean we should always tip. In some countries leaving a gratuity is considered offensive.” (Kabiri)