Punta Cana tipping customs are fairly similar to tipping practices in other parts of Latin America, such as tipping in Cancun or tipping in Jamaica. Usually, you tip a few dollars per person. This gratuity guide will help you navigate the tipping service customs in Punta Cana. Service charges are included at most restaurants outside the resort area. However, when in the resort, be sure to leave the resort staff a good tip if you had excellent service! Keep in mind that many upscale resorts add a service charge to your bill (usually between 10%–15%). So, if you’re staying somewhere like that, you won’t need to worry about extra tips unless you want to show extra appreciation. Check with reception to find out if any of their restaurants, coffee shops, sports bars, or snack bars have a specific tipping policy.
Preferred Tipping Currency in Punta Cana
The United States dollar is preferred when it comes to cash tips in Punta Cana. If you have Dominican pesos, feel free to tip using it; however, it is uncommon to tip more than 250 Pesos (5 Dollars). US dollars are preferred to other currencies. It is easier for the locals to exchange and contribute more directly to the local economy. We recommend that you have low-denomination USDs for tipping. This applies whether you’re enjoying spa services or working with a wedding coordinator. Understanding tipping currency is essential when navigating tipping in Punta Cana.
When to Tip in Punta Cana
Feel free to leave a tip in Punta Cana if you receive attentive service; a little extra won’t hurt! Most of our customers recommend giving $1-2 per drink to bartenders. You can give more if you received exceptional service. You’d normally leave daily tips on top of your bed for the housekeeping staff, at the pool bar, and while leaving your table after breakfast or buffet meals. Make sure to always carry small bills and coins so that you can tip on a dime. Or, contribute to a tip jar if you see one.
Tipping in Punta Cana Hotels and All-Inclusive Resorts
Tipping can be tricky in all-inclusive resorts. Some have gratuities included in your vacation package price. However, most will not include these expenses in your final bill. If you’re staying at a hotel or all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, keep in mind that tipping the resort staff is a must. The suggested gratuity amount varies based on how much you spend while in Punta Cana. Though 2 to 5 dollars is standard at most resorts. This applies to various services, including room service and butler service, if available. Always remember, when considering tipping in Punta Cana, a little gratitude goes a long way in enhancing your stay.
Appreciation Etiquette
When it comes to tipping etiquette for service workers, don’t forget that tipping is just an appreciation of excellent service. If your servers are sloppy or rush you through your meal at an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, then you may want to think twice about whether to leave a tip at all, or at least reduce it. Remember that service workers often rely on tips to supplement their income, especially considering their work schedules and lack of overtime pay. Paying attention to tipping practices in Punta Cana is essential for those new to these customs.
Tipping Your Tour Guides
The amount varies depending on how many hours your excursion guides have spent with you. Their personality is also a factor (if you enjoyed their company). If it’s a private excursion, contact your tour company beforehand to find out what’s customary. 2–5% of your tour price is an acceptable tip for your tour guide. Here is what this looks like:
- Saona Island Tour from Punta Cana avg cost $89 USD. Suggested tip 3-5 USD.
- Hoyo Azul and Scape Park in Punta Cana avg cost $129 USD. Suggested tip 5-7 USD.
- Dune Buggy Tour from Punta Cana (shared) avg cost $69 USD. Suggested tip 3-5 USD.
And so on…
Tipping in Bars and Restaurants
As with restaurants back home, a gratuity is expected at bars in Punta Cana. A 10% tip is customary for standard service at a bar; tipping 15% or more shows extra appreciation. Remember that you don’t need to tip every time you order a drink, but you should definitely give extra when your server goes above and beyond. Always look at your bill. Many restaurants already include the tip in your final bill, so keep an eye for that. This applies to coffee shops, sports bars, and snack bars as well. When you think about tipping in bars in Punta Cana, remember it’s similar to practices found elsewhere, but has its unique rhythm.
Tipping Taxi Drivers
In most countries around the world, tips are not expected or required. When it comes to tipping service in Punta Cana, it is customary to tip taxi drivers and shuttle drivers, but it is not required. If you want to make your driver’s day, you can tip a few dollars. It’s a thoughtful gesture when considering tipping in Punta Cana.
Learn how to get around Punta Cana.
In Conclusion
Tips can make a vacation memorable by giving you a chance to show your appreciation to all those who went out of their way to provide excellent service. Many of the resort staff and service workers you’ll interact with while staying at a Punta Cana all-inclusive make less than $180 USD a month. Tipping service is a great way to help servers, tour guides, or any service personnel in the Dominican Republic provide for their family. As a general rule of thumb, you should consider tipping if you had great service. This applies not only to hotel employees but also to cruise ship crews and other tourism-related roles. By following this gratuity guide and understanding the local tipping customs, you’ll contribute positively to the local economy. Furthermore, you’ll ensure a smooth Caribbean vacation experience. It’s important when traveling to understand the nuances in tipping traditions, especially tipping in Punta Cana.
