Tipping at an All-Inclusive Resort

All Your Questions Answered About Tipping at an All Inclusive Resort

You've booked your trip to an all-inclusive resort and more than likely it states "tips" are included in your price, but is it really?  The quick answer is yes, but the staff taking care of you all week really only see pennies of what you've pre-paid.  The good news, you will have little need for vast amounts of cash (unless you just plan to buy or do a lot of extra things, which could also be awesome).

Still, lots of people have questions about tipping at an all-inclusive, and we want to help you navigate this as smoothly as possible, since it’s different than what we do in the States. 
Note that if you staying at a Sandals Resort, the butler and spa staff are the ONLY people you are allowed to tip, so you can scroll on down to #6. 
Okay, ready? Here we go:

1. Waiter/waitress: Go to a bank and request $2 bills. People overseas absolutely love them, as they are considered to be good luck. The standard tip rate is $1-2 dollars per meal per person. If you are feeling generous and the service was fabulous, reward them with an extra $5 dollar bill.
   
   
2. Bartender: This one is our favorite people to tip! There are a few variables, so stick with us here. $1-2 dollars is appropriate for your quick cocktail at the lobby prior to dinner or even after, when headed to the nightly show. However, if you’ve found that rock star bartender who is making you drinks all day long at the swim-up bar and hooking you up with rounds of shots, then by all means we would not tip less than $5 bucks. Again, your bar tab back home would have been $200+ and this guy probably even danced for you and knows you by name. Thank us later!
   
   
3. Airport or Excursion Drivers: $2-3 dollars is appropriate for a shorter ride for excursions. If you are staying at a resort that is over an hour away from the airport and the driver even helps with your luggage, then consider upping the tip to $10-$20.
   
   
4. Room Service: At some resorts, room service is included, but it never hurts to show some extra love. The delivery guy will be happy with $2-5 dollars per room.  consider the complexity of your order and the time of day.
   
   
5. Housekeeping: Something to keep in mind is that maids rotate every few days, so if you are tipping only at the end of your stay, you may only be tipping one person. This is why we recommend tipping daily. We love a maid who decorates our bed and sets up the tub in the bathroom. Bonus points if they restocks my mini-bar daily! $2-5 per night is standard (add a few more for a high-end resrot, or if you’ve got more than two other people staying with you).
   
   
6. Butler: This is a less common case, but how fancy are you?! $20 per day is standard, depending on how much you use his/her services.
   (BTW: When you book with us, you know whether or not you have a butler included — and if you would like to have a butler included, call us! This is an amazing way to go the extra mile for your honey if you want to have a lavish vacation or honeymoon and be completely pampered. Hint Hint!)
   
   
7. Masseuse: It’s important to note that spa services are not included at most resorts and are regarded as a separate service. We would recommend to tip the standard 15-20%.
   
   
8. Event planner / Wedding Coordinator: If you are getting married at the resort, then use your judgment for tipping based on the support and great service you receive from the onsite wedding coordinator. There is not a set guide to tip these staff members, but we know quite a few coordinators at various resort chains and am almost certain they would appreciate $100 at a minimum. That might sound like a lot — but think back to the few hundred emails you have exchanged with them over the past 6-12 months of planning. They are giving their all to the most special day of your life. 

If you’re feeling extra Pro: Bring your tips already separated and addressed in a sealed envelope for each person/vendor (always carry the cash with you). That way you don’t forget anyone. And bring an extra envelope with extra cash, for the unexpected or should you decide to add on a bit for someone who saves the day.
As you prepare to share generously with those who are making your stay truly unforgettable, consider that the average hotel full-time employee makes roughly $300 per month. Tipping is a huge part of the income of these staff members who work 10-16 hours a day to make your stay amazing. When you tip you are truly helping them take care of their family. 

Ready to plan a trip with United Travel, LLC?  Click here to get started!