Austria: Public Behaviour - Part 2

From ExecutivePlanet.com

More guidelines for public conduct

Although Austrians try to be patient when waiting in line, you will also find that they can become aggravated by this practice. If they move forward and make you feel as though they are closing in behind you, you should remain composed.

In a restaurant do not wait to be seated as you will probably be expected you to seat yourself but do not under any circumstances sit at the Stammtisch which is reserved for regulars in a bar or pub.

Restaurants and cafés usually include a service charge in the bill. If a tip is not included, you should add 10-15% for the service. Even if the gratuity is included, you should still round the bill up as an additional reward for good service. It is not common practice to leave a tip on the table; instead, you should state the total amount you want to pay when you hand over your credit card or cash.

Taxis cannot be hailed on the street. When you are leaving a hotel, ask the concierge to call one for you; otherwise the best way to get a taxi is to go to one of the designated taxi ranks. The standard tip is 10% of your fare. If the driver assists you with your luggage, be prepared to give slightly more than just your gratuity.

In order to drive on Austrian motorways, you must purchase an Autobahn-Vignette, which is available at border crossings and from most petrol stations and tobacconists; failure to display a valid sticker will result in an on-the-spot fine.

Finally, if you need to visit the bathroom, you ask for das WC [pronounced 'vay-tsay'] or die Toilette and, in a public place, you should be sure to go with change in hand either to pay the attendant or to insert a coin in the door to unlock the cubicle.

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