Let’s talk tipping, because this is one of the most common questions I get before a trip.
When you’re staying at an all-inclusive, it’s easy to wonder what you’re supposed to tip, or whether it’s already built into what you paid. The truth is, it depends entirely on the resort, which is exactly why tipping trips people up so often.
Why I send a tipping guide with every trip
As part of your pre-travel Know Before You Go guide, I include recommendations on tipping for housekeeping, wait staff, bartenders, drivers, and anyone else you’re likely to interact with during your stay. Tipping is always a personal choice, but it’s a lot easier to feel confident in the moment when you already know a reasonable range going in, instead of guessing or overthinking it poolside.
Here’s the twist most people don’t expect
Some resorts actually prohibit tipping altogether. Sandals is a great example. Guests are not allowed to tip, and doing so can actually get staff in trouble rather than reward them. It seems backwards if you’re used to tipping everywhere you go, but it’s part of the brand’s no tipping policy across the board.
This is exactly why guessing isn’t a great strategy. What’s expected (or even allowed) changes resort by resort and destination by destination.
The bottom line
Heading out on vacation soon and not sure what to tip? This is such an easy thing to get sorted before you leave so you’re not thinking about it once you land.
Shoot me a message and I’ll send you the specific recommendations for your resort, or grab 30 minutes with me if you’re still planning your trip: https://meliatravelco.com/calendar
Heading out on a cruise soon and not sure how tipping works? Check out my blog post all about cruise line tipping.