Here are some tipping guidelines for services in Gozo.

North Americans, and particularly Americans, are used to the expectation of a 20 percent tip in restaurants as well as in a number of other situations.  In Europe, a decent tip is frequently 10 percent.

In cafes and snack bars if you order, say, two cappucinos and it comes to a total of 80 Maltese cents it is perfectly appropriate to tip an extra 10 cents and your server will be appreciative.  The same goes for (our usually very reasonably priced) drinks in a bar.  A rough 10 percent is fine.

At nicer restaurants you may notice that your bill has a "cover" charge of 50 or 75 Maltese cents.  This is ostensibly for the bread and the table, and an 10 percent tip if you are happy with your service is again appreciated.

In our opinion, taxi fares in Gozo are unreasonably high.  Unless you managed to bargain a good fare (see the article on taxis in the transportation section) and/or the driver provided really exceptional service, do not tip.  The tip is built in.

Hairdressers, barbers, and estheticians provide fantastic service for a very low price and we always tip them at least 50 Maltese cents depending upon the services provided.

At Christmas time we give a gift of a couple of a few pounds to anyone who has spent the year delivering to us (water, gas, etc.) and suggest that they have a couple of drinks on us.  Again, this is appreciated.