The Tip. It’s such a small word, but this open -ended call on our generousity can cause nuch perplexity when eating abroad. So in which countries should you tip? and how much?

• The United State is a nation apart, with its catering trade running on tips. In a bar, you’ll have a miserable evening unless you slip the bar-tender a few dollars with every round. On meal bills, you’re expected to tip a minimum of 15 per cent, though 20 per cent is not uncommon.

• In Italy, don’t give more than about ten per cent to waiter. In Spain just  round up to the nearest euro. Similarly, in Greece you might round 38.5 euros up to 40, but there’s no standard percentage. Hungarians consider it unsafe to leave money on the table. Instead, quietly tell the waiter how much you want to give, and this will be added to your bill.

• France is different altogether. A service charge is automatically included in the restaurant bill, so tipping is discretionary.

• The Japanese have got the around the problem by not tipping at all. Likewise, there’s no obligation in Austratlia or New Zealand. It’s just a reward for service.