How much should you tip hotel reception staff in Egypt to get a better room at check-in?
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 27 days ago
Based on 1 discussion with 3 participants · Last activity: 27 days ago
TL;DR
Slipping around $10 inside your passport (sometimes with a small gift like chocolate) often gets you a nicer, renovated room right away; without a tip, staff may make you switch rooms several times, and the amount asked can vary between employees.
The tour group's local guide arranged room changes for anyone who paid extra, and reimbursed guests who had already tipped separately at check-in.
Leaving $50 at reception as a buffer for a room extension wasn't enough — the final cost was higher. Different staff members quoted different prices for the same room, possibly depending on group size.
Guests who refused to tip on principle had to request a room change 4 times before getting what they wanted. Those who placed $10 inside their passport along with a chocolate bar got a nice, renovated room immediately.