Contrary to common belief the French actually do tip.
The uncertainty of the number written on the bottom of a journalist's pay slip is an habitual worry in the early days of any reporter`s career. And so it is that pushing out a respectable existence in a large city requires beady eyes, complete awareness of current events and an ability to convince those stubborn editors who possess the fundamental right to choose what goes inside the paper.
March and April look to be fairly profitable months but nevertheless I have decided to put some added elbow grease into my working week. Hence I have recently joined the ranks of the French waiters in central Paris.
Efficient service, immaculate appearance and ability to master the art of carrying a tray of drinks high above your head is all part of the job. Waiters in Paris work extremely hard and are always obliged to keep an eye out for thirsty or ravenous customers, dreary old coffee drinking women hiding behind an awkwardly positioned pillar and the plentiful numbers of newcomers who sit down on the terrace as the summer months draw in.
The work is often tiresome, the service usually impeccable and the food always very tasty. But waiters and cooks in the French capital are paid comparatively mediocre amounts. The SMIC, or minimum wage in France is 8.44 euros, the amount many waiters earn in Paris.
However, unknowingly to many, French clients are actually inclined to tip rather generously even though the service charge is always included within the bill.
Even for an espresso - which is already priced at the rather extortionate amount of 2 euros - many a customer will not hesitate to leave a few extra gold coins on the bar or table where they are sat.
Treat the French with a bit of charm and finesse and a couple having a meal together could may well leave up to 4 or 5 euros. It seems that during times of apparent financial crisis, limited purchasing power and fears of a recession the French are still willing to tip their beloved waiters.
Perhaps the waiter has a folkloric aura attached to his personality: the one who allows many of the French to spend endless hours stirring their petit café with friends and partners.
In the United States, tipping is commonplace and often extremely generous but not for the same reasons. Waitering in the States is something done by students and young people. Waitering in France is simply part of the country's heritage.
