Tipping

Tipping in restaurants is optional - if you are not too happy with the service, don't tip. 10% is a good value tip, although most people would just round up the total bill to the next euro. In expensive restaurants tipping is expected and the percentage is about the same as it is in the US, 10-15%, the difference being that you will not be too frown upon if you do not tip.

Keep in mind that whilst tipping, many Portuguese just simply leave the coin portion of their change, not considering actual percentages. Waiters are viewed as professionals in Portugal. A 'tip' is considered a note of appreciation, not a means to make up for a tiny salary. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers unless they help you with your bags.

As general guide, porters and bellmen at airports and hotels receive 2 EUR per bag, maids receive 1 EURO per night.

Bedding

Most hotels offer the option of one double bed or two twin beds, In some cases, two twins can be pushed together to create one bed. Kings beds are not commonly found. 

Telephones

Hotels often charge high service fees for outgoing calls, sometimes as much as 25 percent. Local phone cards can be purchased at post offices and newspaper stands. Most U.S. cell phones will not work in Europe.