To tip or not to tip?

When services are rendered teh eprson paying for those services has the option to pay a tip as to appreciate the work done. this is a very well known custom on our society. basically, tipping is up to the discretion of the person him/herself and how much to tip too. But there are some things to take into consideration. When hiring a limo service with a chauffeur you might have different situations in which tipping plays a different role.

First of all, the tip might be inlcuded in the hiring price, especially in short term trips. it usually amounts to a 15-20% of the price. This is done to protect the driver, for in many cases people using short term limo trips might not think of tiping the driver.
Secondly, sometimes, the chauffeur performs additional duties other than just driving, such as red carpet rollout, photography service and beverage services. In this case tipping is expected and it is appropriate to tip 15-20% at least, depedning on the duties of the driver.
Thirdly, sometimes the drievr has to go trough troubles getting the passenger somewhere in time and circumstances might present obstacles. In other words, the trip doesn't go smoothly. An accident might have happened blocking the way, heavy rainfall slows down traffic etc. A well trained and experienced chauffeur will do his best to be in time and privde a ride as smooth as possible. In this case, tipping is apropriate and expected to be around the same amount: 15-20 % at least.
Fourthly, an experienced and professional chauffeur will do his best to provide extra service to the passenger. As I said in a previous post, some companies will provide extra complementary services. The driver will be friendly, helpful and interested, adn even preferably remember your name or your last trip if he/she drove you before. In this case tipping is customary as an appreciation but is left up to the discretion of the customer.

In summary, I think it is fair to say that tipping is a good practice as appreciation to the chauffeur in proportion to his service and effort. Actually, the only situaiton I feel tipping is not deserved is when the driver is obviously lazy, uninterested and careless. I hope you will all feel very grateful to the drivers you meet and feel happy to tip them!