Local customs vary around the world, with some countries expecting tips as a mandatory part of service, even if you’re only buying a takeaway coffee. While in the UK we like to give tips as a compliment for good service, there are two destinations where leaving a tip can do quite the opposite.

Travel expert Justin Chapman at Go2Africa has shared two countries where tipping might actually be seen as an insult.

In both China and Japan, tipping is not expected. Generally, service is seen as part of the meal you have paid for.

This is increasingly changing in some tourist hotspots, according to Justin, particularly in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam.

“Tipping is becoming more common in tourist areas,” he explained. “A small tip of around 10 percent is a nice gesture but isn’t expected. In Indonesia, five to 10 percent is appreciated if a service charge hasn’t already been included.”

Unlike in the US, tipping taxi drivers and in bars and coffee shops isn’t generally expected across Asia.

Justin added: “It can be best to err on the side of caution and not tip in Asia, to avoid accidentally offending someone – but you can ask a local, or staff at your hotel for advice.”

Tipping in China

China holds perhaps the strongest view on tipping, according to Justin. He explained: “In China, tips are seen as unnecessary and can even be seen as rude.”

However, if you are in a high-traffic tourist area, then tipping may be a little more commonplace.

According to experts from Intrepid Travel: “Tipping is not expected on mainland China, although leaving spare change at restaurants and giving a small amount to tourism and hospitality workers is becoming more commonplace.”

Tipping in Japan

“In Japan, tipping is considered part of the service and can be considered offensive,” said Justin.

“A small gift might be better received if you really want to show appreciation. Similar to Japan, tipping is not expected in South Korea.”

In fact, in some cases, trying to leave a tip in a restaurant may even lead to the service person rejecting your tip – which may feel a little awkward.

Generally, in Japan, it’s thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.