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German Waiter Earns More Than Spanish Doctor: A Look into Hospitality Economics and Tipping Culture
Berlin, Germany – Dr. Rafael Zafra, a physician who spent a year working as a waiter in Germany while awaiting the validation of his medical degree, has revealed that his earnings in the hospitality sector significantly surpassed those of his medical colleagues practicing in Spain. Dr. Zafra, based in Berlin, shared his insights in a recent video, highlighting the unexpected financial advantages of working as a waiter in Germany. According to Dr. Zafra, two primary factors contribute to the profitability of working in German gastronomy. Firstly, he notes the strict enforcement of labor laws, ensuring that 'every minute worked is a minute paid,' a contrast he draws with practices in Spain. Secondly, Germany possesses a robust tipping culture, which he likens to that of the United States. Waiters often pay a percentage of their total sales to management, creating an incentive to provide excellent service and maximize tips. Dr. Zafra reported monthly net earnings ranging from €2,200 to €3,200 during his time as a waiter. He emphasized the crucial role of language proficiency, particularly German and English, and other languages, in enhancing customer interaction and, consequently, tip income. He advises focusing energy on customers from countries with a strong tipping culture, such as the US, UK, and Germany, while providing standard service to those from countries where tipping is less common or even considered impolite, like some Asian nations, France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Zafra expressed gratitude for the financial independence and personal growth he achieved, stating, 'I have learned a lot, worked a lot, earned a lot of money, and finally became economically independent without having to depend on state scholarships.' He views this period as a valuable bridge in his professional career, allowing him to save money and pursue his medical career with greater financial freedom.
