All Inclusive Vacation Planning & Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Tipping at All Inclusive Resorts

When it comes to tipping at all inclusive resorts, it may not always be clear on the proper etiquette. “When do you tip?,” “How much?,” and “Do you even tip at all?” are valid questions to ask. Plus, if you adhere to the standards found in the U.S., you could end up spending more on tips than necessary. 

Before you jet off on your next all inclusive vacation, it’s always a good idea to do some research so you know exactly when and if you should tip resort staff members. To guide you in the right direction, we have information to help you understand tipping at all inclusive resorts.

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More information on tipping at all inclusive resorts…

When Not to Tip at All Inclusive Resorts

Many all inclusive properties account for tips in their overall prices. This means your checkout total is going to be higher than it would be if they weren’t included, so you definitely don’t want to spend more money than you have to by tipping unnecessarily. Employees may even say they can’t accept tips if you do try to offer them. You can find out whether gratuity is included by reading the fine print on your booking or calling the hotel to ask about their gratuity policy.

When to Tip at All Inclusive Resorts

If tips aren’t worked into the total price of your stay, make it a point to leave them as necessary. It’s a great way to express your appreciation for a service, whether that’s a delicious cocktail from a skilled bartender, a pleasant dinner served by an attentive waiter, or a spotless room cleaned by a meticulous maid. 

How to Give a Tip at an All Inclusive Resort

Resorts have hundreds of staff members working day and night to make sure you have a memorable experience. But does that mean you have to tip every single person who helps you? Not necessarily. It’s usually customary to tip waiters, bartenders, room service, and housekeeping. You also don’t want to forget about bellhops and airport shuttle drivers, especially if they go out of their way to assist you. There’s no need to tip employees like front desk staff or beach towel staff; however, if they go the extra mile for you, there’s no harm in showing your appreciation.

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Tipping for Special Services at All Inclusive Resorts

You might wonder why you need to tip at an all inclusive resort where everything is bundled into one price. It’s always a good idea and the right thing to tip, especially when you receive exceptional service. If you are taking advantage of extra services including transportation, tours, or hosting a special event, here’s a quick guide to ensure you are prepared to tip accordingly.

Transportation and Tours

Getting around is an essential part of your trip and tipping drivers and guides who make the experience stress-free is a great way to show your appreciation.

  • Airport Transfer Driver: If you’re on a shared ride, between $2 and $5 per person is standard. For private transfers, consider tipping between $10 and $20 per person.
  • Shuttle Bus Drivers: If you’re taking a short ride within the resort or nearby areas, a small tip of between $1 and $2 per couple is a nice gesture.
  • Tour Guides: For full-day excursions, a tip between $5 and $10 per person shows gratitude for their expertise and efforts.

Tipping For Weddings and Special Events

Celebrating a wedding or special event at an all inclusive resort usually calls for the onsite staff to go above and beyond to make the special day extra special. Tipping is key to an amazing and attentive staff. It’s always a good idea to assign a friend or family member to manage the tipping so it’s not forgotten or overlooked.

  • Wedding Coordinator: Between $20 and $50, depending on their level of assistance and your satisfaction.
  • Wedding Servers: Between $10 and $30 per server, especially if they provide stellar service.
  • Photographer/Videographer: Between $20 and $50 for outstanding work and personal attention to capturing your memories.

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Tipping Etiquette at All Inclusive Resorts

When you are staying at an all inclusive resort, there are a few simple things you can do to show your appreciation. Note that some resorts might not allow tips. If this is the case, leave a handwritten thank you note and make someone’s day!

  • Use small bills: Have plenty of $1 and $5 bills for easy tipping, because getting change can be difficult and time-consuming.
  • Be discreet: Hand cash tips directly to staff instead of leaving them on tables or counters.
  • Tip daily: Housekeeping and restaurant staff rotate shifts, so tipping each day shows your appreciation for everyone providing you with exceptional service.
  • Respect resort policies: Some resorts have no-tipping policies. If that’s the case, don’t insist on tipping. Instead, offer a heartfelt “thank you.”
  • Tipping in local currency: While the U.S. Dollar is widely accepted, tipping in Mexican or Dominican pesos or the Jamaican Dollar for example is often preferred since it saves staff from exchange fees.

How Much to Tip in Mexico All Inclusive Resorts?

Tipping…can be a confusing concept, especially when you are heading to Mexico. Do you tip in Mexico all inclusive resorts? While it isn’t mandatory, it is always welcome. Tipping shows hardworking wait staff, bartenders, housekeepers, tour guides, and drivers that you appreciate their efforts. 

This is especially true when they go out of their way to enhance your vacation experience. A small tip is a way to tip your hat to the personalized touches they provide. Plus, when you are a generous tipper, it may encourage them to continue delivering top-notch hospitality throughout your stay.

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Let’s Recap Tipping at All Inclusive Resorts

Once you’re aware of whether gratuities are included in the total cost of your all inclusive vacation and what quality of service merits your special thanks, the act of tipping becomes a personal choice – much like choosing your perfect beach destination and resort!

Head over to All Inclusive Outlet and find the discounted vacation package that suits all of your needs so you can have an amazing experience in paradise.

Sources

https://www.amatravel.ca/articles/simple-guide-to-tipping-at-all-inclusive-resortshttps://www.yellowumbrellaevents.com/tips-for-tipping-in-mexico/

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