In Reply to: Asking your driver posted by Witchy on Wednesday, 15. June 2005 at 06:55 Bali Time:
but respect if he wishes not to as well. Sometimes they have already eaten, or just don't feel comfortable. We have found that sometimes the restaurant staff can be a bit aloof to drivers who are sitting with their clients. Maybe that is why. (Maybe it is our habit of chattering through a meal - in contrast to the Balinese way of eating in relative silence, enjoying the food!)
If we leave our driver with the van and go shopping or exploring we always bring back a bottle of water for him if we stop and buy one, or pack one for him as well if we are packing a bag for an outing. I like giving drivers we use for a few days some books and toys for their children, which is a good way of giving an extra little something without them being embarrassed, because it is for their children...either sons and daughters, or brothers and sisters if they are young drivers.