The Automatic Tip

As a frequent traveler for both business and pleasure, I always enjoy Christopher Reynolds’ column. I too have mixed feelings about hotels that automatically add a tip for room service (“Built-In Gratuities,” June 23). What really bothers me is when the tip is already added as a service charge and a blank gratuity line is still shown on the bill. I believe this is clearly misleading and many guests add a normal tip, not knowing one is included.

Another bothersome tactic I have encountered is the hotel automatically adding $15 a day to the bill for incidentals. If they want to charge this, I believe it should be quoted as part of the room rate.

CRAIG BEAM

Orange