Q – Wondering if I should be tipping in local currency or US dollars during a planned ten-day stay in Brazil? May I assume they all want US dollars?
A – The answer is a bit nuanced. If you are dealing with hotel staff or those working with upscale travelers, tipping in US dollars is fine. Hotel staff can generally exchange their US tips at the hotel with fees waived. If, on the other hand, you are dealing with locals such as waiters, taxi drivers etc., you will want to tip in local currency. In some cases they are not comfortable changing money and when they do, they are often charged exorbitant exchange fees. Another option is to simply hand out old photos of our new First Lady.
