first of all, if you're paying $500 no one better accuse you of being cheap. Second of all a tip is never included unless itemized on your bill, one of which i'm sure you will not get in this area of activity. Thirdly, if services are provided that either are not normally provided or are out of the ordinary an extra fee may be charged, this is not a tip, it's an additional charge and finally, if after your encounter your head is spinning and you're filled with joy and are on the brink of falling in love then i'm sure a tip would be a nice way of expressing your appreciation.

A tip is not required and at the higher rate should not be expected.  You may however consider bringing along a nice bottle of wine, or fine box of chocolates.

...I never expect a tip, but it is nearly always left.

Coming from the old school, when my rate was set by others, there is indeed a protocol attached to this sort of liaison, but personally I don't expect one as an indy in the, what you call (and what I guess I am in!) "upper echelon".

Let's just put it this way -- I've had impersonal, expressionless encounters with 120 tips and fantastic repeat encounters with 0 tip.  My ATF never tips.  All I expect is that a good time be had by all.

I hope this long-winded answer helps you.

design.lust

As was suggested, I have brought champagne, and all ladies will share a toast!  I don't do the flowers or chocolate thing...flowers are too conspicuous, and chocolates will be shared most likely with other clients that visit after you.

500 isn;t *that* much (it's all relative) but sometimes an extra 100 when the lady is really into it, more often than not a little gift from Swarovski, Chanel, Dior, a bracelet or necklace...whatever. They may be providers but ALL women like a little gift that are not expected. Juts as a provider can be a pleasant surprise so can her playmates...I gave one of my ATF's out west a bottle of rare single-malt scotch!

If someone comes to my place, I love it when they arrive with a little something or even a call to ask if I want a Starbucks or whatever.  Lingerie makes it a little more fun, candles are always welcome, chocolate is just a bad temptation!  Not that I won't devour it anyway, I will.
I have often said that the little unexpected treats will be the thing I will miss the most.

Enjoy the upper echelon and I hope I make the bucket list, lol! Having a great time in NYC!

Brennan

You didn't mention the most important issue when deciding whether or not to tip a provider: is she an independent operator, or are you booking her through a service? If she's independent, no tipping is required (although you can always show your appreciation, as mentioned above). If she's through a service, she's likely only getting around half of the rate you are paying, so tipping is usually expected. For $500, at least a $50 tip for an agency girl wouldn't be unreasonable.