Concierges are paid a base salary, and while many say that tips are "appreciated but not expected," James Little, at the Peninsula Beverly Hills, admits that tipping is, in fact, "an expected practice."

When to Tip: In the United States, tip on a case–by–case basis for a simple request such as arranging the services of a guide. If your needs are more complicated and time–consuming—say, errands or designing an itinerary—give the concierge a commensurate sum at the end of your stay. In Europe, where American hotel guests have a reputation as non–tippers, experts recommend giving the concierge $20 upon arrival. Any additional gratuity can then be given at the end of your stay.

How Much: Base the tip on the time it takes the concierge to accomplish the request, how important it was to you, and if it required the concierge to go beyond what would ordinarily be expected. Tips can range from $5 to $100, but the standard in the United States and Europe is $20. No one expects a tip for a lunch reservation, but a table at Nobu 57 for dinner on Valentine's Day might be worth $20. There's no need to tip for arranging airport transportation, but a seven–day, 14–page itinerary might warrant $100 and a thank–you note. In much of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, gratuities are more modest (say, $5 to $10 for common requests like arranging tickets to an event). The more Westernized the city (Hong Kong and Bangkok, for example), the more closely you can match your tip to the American custom.

Concierge Prize Picks

Nobody knows the best in a city better than its best concierges. The staff of some of the world's finest hotels share their favorite spots.
By S.E. Kramer

Lisbon
Lapa Palace, Nelson Silva
What's the most commonly overlooked site in your city?
"Santa Luzia Belvedere, near São Jorge Castle, for its wonderful views of the castle and the city."
Where would you send your mother to shop for a souvenir?
"Vista Alegre, a magnificent shop with porcelain and pottery" (23 Largo do Chiado).
Where would you send a couple looking for a romantic dinner?
"Casa da Comida. It's formal but classic. In the summer you can sit in the garden" (1 Travessa de Amoreiras; entrées, $24–$36).

Sydney
Intercontinental, Simon Rose
What's the most commonly overlooked site in your city?
"The scenic drive along the coast to the northern suburb of Palm Beach."
Where would you send your mother to shop for a souvenir?
"The Ken Duncan gallery for an amazing photograph of the true Australian landscape" (73 George St.).
Where would you send a couple looking for a romantic dinner?
"A table with a view of the water at Pier. After dinner, I'd recommend a walk around Rose Bay" (594 New South Head Rd.; entrées, $33–$36).