Originally Posted by
yellowtriumph
In a few weeks to time we are flying for the first time with Emirates, as part of the package we are being picked up at home and dropped back at home upon our return. The journey length is about 70 miles each leg. The cost of this is of course included in the ticket but I wondered if there was any sort of agreed etiquette with regard to giving the driver a tip? To give or not to give? How much etc? (Heathrow if that makes any difference).
Similarly when we arrive in India we will have an Emirates courtesy car from Mumbai airport to our downtown hotel which is about 25 miles away? Again, any local etiquette to follow?
I would first check online if Emirates is not going to charge you over the regular milage they give for a city pick. 70 miles is definitely way over the limit they give in most countries. I have run into this problem before, that while the booking accepts it I get a call the day before (was 84 miles in the US) & they asked me for Cc to charge me differential. The difference for the balance miles was about $150. I am sure in Mumbai there is no charge. As far as the tips go in the US a tip is accepted in India while he will happily accept it in any currency they usually do not expect it. As far as changing your money, I suggest you do so as soon as you come out of the customs area before you step out from one of the Thomas cook money exchange or who ever is giving the best rate. Changing at the hotel will set you back a pretty penny & money changers are not available all over the place in Mumbai. Always good to have some local currency in hand. Credit cards work everywhere so that should not be an issue.