Day guide wants the tip in USD not LKR — polite to insist on rupees or just hand over dollars?
Half-day Cultural Triangle guide did a good job. At the end he quietly asked if the tip could be in dollars because he prefers them. This is not tuk rounding and not a temple tip-box pitch — just currency preference. We have both. What do locals and repeat travelers do without making it weird?
More
4 Answers from travellers
Tips are optional thanks, not a second invoice. If you tip, LKR is always fine and often easier for daily use; USD is fine if you already have small bills and he prefers them — no need for a speech. Do not feel pressured into an ATM run for dollars. Agree nothing that feels like a demand. Temple tip boxes and tuk rounding are separate habits. I will not invent a percentage gospel — tip what feels right for the day you had.
I tip in rupees unless they clearly prefer dollars and I have small notes. No ATM theater.
Keep tips separate from site tickets and car hire. Clarity beats currency debates.
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Wildlife parks in Sri Lanka beyond Yala - Wilpattu, Minneriya, Udawalawe - which is worth visiting?2 answers
- Kandy Esala Perahera - when does it happen, where are the best viewing spots, and how do I get seats?2 answers
- Arugam Bay vs Weligama for intermediate surfing - which should I choose and why?2 answers
- Best local food to eat in Colombo - where do locals actually eat and what should I try?2 answers
- How cheap can you realistically travel Sri Lanka on a shoestring - $25-30 USD per day?2 answers
- Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka - what to expect and how to find genuine treatment vs tourist trap?2 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture