[Cashane]

I remember it really shocked me the first time I went to NY... Absolutely unthinkable to hope you can ask some hotel employee any kind of information without having him open his hand face up waiting for a buck after answering.

It's a different way to live I suppose.. But I can't help thinking it considerably lacks of honor, and that it should feel both degradent for the employee and irritating for the client. Not 100% sure if it's just a matter of different education and way of life ?
In europe in may places it would even feel offending for the worker to be offered a tip, though for dealers in poker cercles and casinos, it's of course like in the states, not "mandatory" but highly expected (but even though I would tip - I never play live -, I would certainly dislike having to do it).