There's some good stuff in here. Stuff I didn't consider, and as always, good perspective from Albie. Yes, familiar drivers know the FedEx drill at layover hotels -- FedEx crews split the tips. At least that's been my experience. I fly with one Capt a yr who says "pay your own tip" and I do and don't think anything of it.

I didn't know Carey in IND had the tips in their contract. That's interesting. I'll still tip anyway.

When I go to FRA, I always tip Manfred, no matter what. I became very ill on a layover there and Manfred took care of me while I was in the hospital. He and Benjamin always get a tip from me.

In Japan I almost always want to tip them, they do the best job. Wish everyone was a concientious as the Japanese.

Finally, I think it's good that we do have some traditions as a pilot group. The cookies while jumpseating, no probation guy buys drinks or dinner, and even some of the Capts who buy a dinner somewhere along on a 10 dayer is all good stuff in my book. As a 8 yr FO, I have seen stuff that I will do when I become my favorite Capt to fly with, and I was led there by some great guys wearing 4 stripes who showed me the old school way, and the way it's supposed to be fraternally done.