The appeal of an unforgettable vacation is a major attraction for many people. all-inclusive resort lies in the promise that you won’t need your wallet once you arrive—hence the name. You can feel a sense of freedom knowing that you won’t be worried about the cost of dinner or a bar tab when you check out.
Although it is generally accepted that all-inclusive packages include extras such as excursions, spa treatments and premium alcohol, there are still questions about tipping. less clear.
In most cases, gratuities will be included in your all-inclusive package. That said, many guests still choose to tip—unless the resort explicitly prohibits it—as a way to recognize great service.
Our tipping philosophy is to include gratuity as part of the all-inclusive package. This allows guests to enjoy a worry-free and relaxed vacation,” Evatt bloomfield, general manger at Sunset at the PalmsA Negril all-inclusive resort, Jamaica, has told Travel + Leisure.
Many, if no all-inclusive resorts, take this stance. Bloomfield estimates, however, that 90 percent of all-inclusive guests tip. “A large percentage of people are familiar with the names and faces of the people who assist them. They reward those people who provide quality service, as well as someone they have built a relationship.
The decision of whether to tip and how much is a personal one. Here we examine the tipping policy at different resorts.
Tipping policies differ by resort
It’s important to research the rules of tipping before you travel. Sandals and Beaches resorts, for example, prohibit tipping, with the exception of spa therapists and butlers. The Sandals policy dates back to 1981 when the first resort opened.
“From the very beginning, our founder, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, envisioned a place of true relaxation and connection,” Deryk Meany, general manager of Sandals Dunn’s RiverT+L. “We want to make it easy for our guests to enjoy the sun and sand, so we encourage them to leave their wallets at home.”
Other properties such as at Curtain Bluff Include a gratuity of 10 percent in your final bill in Antigua. Tipping is not forbidden in Antigua, but it is structured differently. Curtain Bluff managing directors Rob Sherman and Rob Sherman stated that “if our guests wish to further reward our employees, we request they consider making an extra contribution to the Staff Service Charge Pool, which also benefits back-of -house staff.” This can be added at the checkout to the total amount of the guest’s bill.
There are also properties such as Sunset at the Palms. SLS Playa Mujeres In Cacun the online tipping policy is not clearly stated, leading to confusion among guests.
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Discover Your Resort’s Tipping Policies
Here’s what to do if you are unsure of your tipping expectations:
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Ask the resort about its policy by calling them directly.
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Visit travel forums to see what they are like. TripAdvisor You can also find out more about Facebook groups Guest experiences are important.
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Compare the resort’s policy with the culture of tipping at the destination.
At some resorts the staff is not allowed to accept tipping and may face disciplinary actions for doing so. Respect the rules of the property.
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What is the standard tip for an all-inclusive restaurant?
Although tipping is not mandatory, many guests do it to express their appreciation for exceptional service. Arturo Kralj says that’s exactly what happened at SLS Playa Mujeres.
Kralj advises travelers to budget between $30 and $50 per day if you plan on tipping. Bring small bills in USD or local currency. Consider bringing a pouch to hold tip money.
Kralj suggests the following tip amounts:
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Bartenders: $1-$2 per drink
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Pool/Beach Service: Spend $5 to $10 a day
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Buffet Meals: $3-$5
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A la carte dinners (say a steakhouse) $10-$20
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Housekeeping: You can leave a gratuity of $5 to $10 per night, or you can wait until the last day.
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Butlers: $20-$30 per day
Budget an additional $150 to $250 for possible tips.
When it comes to tipping, there is no universal rule. Tipping is usually included in the price, but it’s always appreciated to recognize exceptional service by adding a few dollars. Remember: if you are unsure, just ask.
