I’ve always lived in tipping countries; I love the idea of saying, “I really appreciate your service.” Service jobs are in a category of its own—you deal with people in such a way that it’s almost more than work many times.
I don’t understand why anyone wouldn’t at least pay the minimum tip—I suppose it’s personal.

Loved your piece…and anecdote in the end!
Happy traveling Kit! Hope you’ll keep writing and sharing with us!