We get asked about tipping while traveling a lot. This can be a difficult question to answer because we all tip differently at home. We see tipping as a way to give back to the countries we visit and their people who take care of us while we enjoy their beautiful country. So, perspective plays a role in how you tip.
Airport Transfers and Taxi services
- We generally tip $2 per bag when transferring from the airport in a group transfer with a little more added in for a driver that does more in giving information about the country throughout transfer. Some transfers are also much longer, we tip more when a transfer is more than the customary 20-30 minutes because the driver is being kept from a higher turnover to get more guests and tips. .
- Private transfers are another time we would tip a few more dollars because the driver is delivering a more personal service.
- You will also feel obliged to tip with excursions that have long rides and tour guides that accompany them. They often have a tip jar upon your exit and it is shared with the driver, guide and any other assistants.
- Typically, we'll spend $10-20 each way
Bartenders
- At the bar: This really depends on how needy your drink orders are, do you need them to go find a specialty liquor, do you ask for a 14 step drink? You can tip small amounts each time you order or a larger tip once a day. Since you are going to them, the tipping does not seem quite as high as if you have them delivering.
- Poolside Server: I prefer to stay in the water and depending on the swim up scene, I sometimes prefer to find a sweet poolside server and stay in her section all week. I often find, these are my favorite people I meet...maybe because they bring me alcohol...but usually because they seem to like their jobs and tell you drinks they think you should try. Sometimes, they remember you and see you coming then meet you with a favorite. I see people not tipping, giving $1´s every drink or I prefer to stick with the same server and give them a $5 for a few hours so I don´t get in and out of my bag with cash and get in and out of the pool.
- Pictured is Sylvia was a tray of drinks after handing me a ¨surprise, I think you like it, pretty lady¨ Oh, Sylvia how I will miss you in Indiana.
Servers at Buffets
- Servers grab you a drink while you serve yourself, then take your plates. $1-2 at the end of the meal.
Servers at Full Service Meals
- I would be prepared for $3-5/meal. The issue here is how much work you ask of them. Some places are several course meals and they go above and beyond. I hate when I show up with three $1´s and really wish I had brought more. Likewise, I wouldn´t want to come with one $10 bill then have poor service. Just like eating at a restaurant in America, I prefer to award great service. What isn't expected is a 20% tip on "the bill." First, there isn't a bill and even if you were to estimate what you might have spent on a similar feast in the US, they aren't looking for 15-20%.
Housekeepers
- Are you and your family a disaster? Do you get cleaning and turn down service at the location? Why are the tiny ¨turn down chocolates¨ so exciting...we generally leave $4-5 a day
Sweets and Coffee shops
- Some of these shops look like a fast paced factory so I sometimes don´t tip because I have had 4 people talk to me. However, if you find yourself ordering an $8 Starbucks-style drink...$1 seems fair.
Excursions
- This is a little tricky because this will vary greatly based on your activity
- Keep in mind, you'll have a transfers/taxi to the location. Most excursions include transfers or the resort bellman can help with a taxi.
- Will you be on a boat (snorkeling or scuba)? I pay the crew 10% of the cost of the tour. A $200 family snorkeling trip? Consider $20 for the crew.
- Will you have a guide? Depending on how involved they are, be prepared to give them a little bit, too. Maybe another $5-10.
Summary to calculate your tips:
Figure how many nights your staying and how many excursions you might take, then multiply your nights by:
- $4 /night housekeeping
- $5 /night evening meal
- $8 /night ($4 each for breakfast and lunch)
- $8 /day for bartenders
- $20 for airport transfers
- $20 for an excursion
So, for a 6 night trip, you can figure around $200. Again, this really depends on your attitude toward tipping in general. Bring lots of $1´s and $5´s. You don´t need any bills larger than a $10. I've seen where some travel industry workers enjoy $2 bills and collect them as a sign of good luck.
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