The silliest comments here are those who complain that such and such country or region should do things differently ...... Pay higher wages, include the "tip" as part of the upfront cost, whatever. That attitude is pretty much a classic definition of "ethnocentricity." Something we non-worldly American rubes have been accused of for generations.
Let me offer an observation based on fifty years of extensive international travel. No one is going to change an industry-wide compensation system or economic model because some non-resident doesn't like it. As a visitor, it is far better to simply realize things are done differently in fill in the blank (rather like the past).
Pretty much end of discussion. So the only real question is whether you adapt to those mores, don't go, or be miserly.
It is just like the US service industry - particularly restaurants and bars. Often servers in those establishments aren't even paid what is considered in this country a minimum wage. They, like many staff in African countries, are essentially working for tips. I should add, in a good restaurant or bar, that can mean a very nice monthly income. We have a young friend in Virginia with a MBA who "can't afford" to quit her waitress job. The fact that a European or Canadian visitor thinks we ought to have a different system is irrelevant. The choice is either adapt to US customs while here, don't come, or stiff your server.
And as I have noted several times in this epic discussion, I do choose to tip in Europe. Even small out of the way guesthouses high in the Alps or the MIdi of France. Haven't had one thrown back in my face yet. And though it is not adapting, I think it is a far better non-adaption than ignoring people who have worked hard and are counting on our generosity.
