Splitting bills with fellow pilgrims

[BiggBlue]

Over the years on various Caminos, I've often found myself in situations where people go out for supper. When the bill arrives, some individuals only contribute the exact amount they consumed (often incorrectly). Invariably, the total collected is short. Historically, as the oldest member of the group, I get given the bill and end up covering the difference.

This recurring issue has been frustrating, especially when I see people enjoying the wine and a full meal but not paying their fair share. I've wondered if there's a perfect solution to this problem.

A few years ago, while walking on the Norte, I was with a group where I was the oldest by about 20 years. For two consecutive nights, I covered the shortfall when the others did not cover the bill, even though I explained we were short. Others simply said "I only had salad and soup", but omitted beer and wine!!! . On the third night, I quietly requested a separate bill, which became my standard practice. Settling the bill that evening took longer since I wasn't there to cover any gaps, though I was asked for a €20 loan from one of the diners.

Although asking for separate bills can make the server's job more tedious, I believe it's sometimes the best approach, and avoid embarrassing confrontations.

One memorable incident occurred seven years ago on the French route. A fellow pilgrim joined me for supper at a local cafe offering a pilgrim's menu. The meal, which included three courses plus wine, water, and bread, cost €10. After we finished, the person placed €9 on the table, refusing to pay for the wine since they hadn't drunk any. Despite my explanation that the €10 covered everything, they insisted on not paying the total amount. I paid the difference, but it highlighted how some people have peculiar ideas about honouring their obligation to the final bill.

This issue has been a persistent annoyance over the years. When travelling with a friend for a few days, we create a joint kitty, or use a finance app. With strangers, I prefer to pay separately to avoid problems, and due to my not wanting any problems to make up for the shortfall,

Though, to be fair, on the last Camino I did this year, every evening when we had a shared supper, the bill was equally split, and allowance was made for people who didn't drink.

I wondered if any other pilgrims have had this experience where the total put in did not cover the bill, and how they managed it.

 

[CWBuff]

A few years ago, while walking on the Norte, I was with a group where I was the oldest by about 20 years. For two consecutive nights, I covered the shortfall when the others did not cover the bill, even though I explained we were short. Others simply said "I only had salad and soup", but omitted beer and wine!!!

And THATS when I would absolutely state "Yes but you also had beer and\or wine".

One memorable incident occurred seven years ago on the French route. A fellow pilgrim joined me for supper at a local cafe offering a pilgrim's menu. The meal, which included three courses plus wine, water, and bread, cost €10. After we finished, the person placed €9 on the table, refusing to pay for the wine since they hadn't drunk any. Despite my explanation that the €10 covered everything, they insisted on not paying the total amount. I paid the difference, but it highlighted how some people have peculiar ideas about honouring their obligation to the final bill.

IMHO in situation like this one calls the server back, apologizes profusely and asks for separate checks. let the "fellow pilgrim" then argue with the server.

I know what you are saying. I am sure that we all have been in these situation simply because they are not Camino-exclusive. I've had my share of people in a group doing the same..... one time it was a very large group which unfortunately "allowed" (situation-wise) for some folks to quietly leave the premises and leaving the rest of us with splitting the unpaid balance among us.... Those folks will "be there' ....always

I am very much in favor of asking for separate bills if I am dining in the company of people that I do not know.... and sometimes even in the company of those I do. I'm not an expert on these things (I dont think there is one per se) but one way to handle it is before the meal is ordered respectfully set the ground rules along these lines - 2 choices 1. either we all split the final bill evenly (and at that point never we all mind who ate\drank what) or 2. request separate bills

 

[CWBuff]

Though, to be fair, on the last Camino I did this year, every evening when we had a shared supper, the bill was equally split, and allowance was made for people who didn't drink.

But then like you said earlier - the meal is €10 and includes everything!
Lets do it very simple - there is no *group* of people - the Pilgrim walked into a bar and ordered menu-del-dia or whatever. The cost is €10 includes bebida (a "beverage"). The server asked if the pilgrim wahnts anything to drink and the answer was "no". Will the server make any allowances for the beverage not consumed? I don't think so.

If you go to "All you can eat buffet" and do NOT eat everything.... will you be able to pay any less? Heck NO!

 

[TravellingMan22]

Remember the folks you meet on a Camino are strangers you will meet briefly. There are not your friends and family and will have forgotten you by tomorrow. Don’t stand for nonsense! Pay your way but no one elses, and definately don’t pick up any differences! The restaurant will have to wear it if someone walks out without paying their full whack, not you! The Camino seems to be a magnet for freeloaders.

 

[Caomhin O Fearghaill]

At the eating and drinking table there will always be the person who gets the bill, or asks for the bill, or suggests how the bill should be divided, or in some way gets tangled up with the bill. That was me until I resigned. So, now I ask for my own bill and pay for myself. Problem solved without indigestion.

 

[MikeJS]

I just agree what we are going to do before we start.

 

[Anhalter]

Theres people i bicker with about money and theres people with whom i have more than one dinner. They are mutually exclusive. On the last camino it was more often than not the discussion on who was allowed to pay. Good thing we can chose the company we keep.

 

[Telelama]

Honestly, I just pay it and move on.

I am older and make good money, and I know so many are on limited budgets. We almost always pay for meals and drinks for our fellow pilgrims that are in their twenties, sometimes 30s, because I know they, generally, don't have a lot of discretionary cash. If I pay, it gives them a little extra cash for something else they need/want.

If I can help them experience a better Camino by these little actions, I'm more than happy to oblige.

 

[CWBuff]

Honestly, I just pay it and move on.

I am older and make good money, and I know so many are on limited budgets. We almost always pay for meals and drinks for our fellow pilgrims that are in their twenties, sometimes 30s, because I know they, generally, don't have a lot of discretionary cash. If I pay, it gives them a little extra cash for something else they need/want.

If I can help them experience a better Camino by these little actions, I'm more than happy to oblige.

I cannot agree more as I have paid for meals, rides and accommodations of many folks who were "less fortunate" than I was at that moment. IMHO its not truly about who paid but the audacity if you will of those who knowingly freeload and have no problem taking advantage of others any chance they get.

But.... if you insist.... your next camino is when?

 

[Telelama]

But.... if you insist.... your next camino is when

I'll let you know, and you can join us at our table anytime!!

 

[GaTeach]

I consider it an honor to shade the paths of others any chance I get! Never ever ever want to sit at a table where people are splitting checks. Ewwwww.