Puerto Rico Tipping and Gratuities | puertorico-guide.info

Travelers should remember that tipping traditions differ from country to country, and Puerto Rico is no exception. Following the lead of the U.S., travelers should remember to tip in Puerto Rico.

Often tips are included in the bill. When they're not you'll want to follow these simple guidelines so you'll know when and even how much to tip during your stay in Puerto Rico.

Restaurants

Like so many other islands in the Caribbean, numerous restaurants in Puerto Rico incorporate a 10 percent to 15 percent service charge into the total cost of the meal. Be careful not to tip your server twice and lose valuable spending money. If you are unsure if the restaurant includes this automatic charge, just ask your server. When you do tip, leave your server 15 percent to 20 percent and bartenders 10 percent of the total tab. Bartenders should be tipped $1(USD) to $2(USD) per round depending on their attentiveness. If the service was exceptional, however, leaving more than the customary amount is always welcomed by servers. When it's not included in the bill, tipping always remains at the diner's discretion.

Hotels

Hotels in Puerto Rico automatically include between a 7 percent to 10 percent service charge in the final bill, but double and triple check your bill to avoid paying unknown charges. Some hotels add an extra 3 percent energy surcharge to your bill. If not, ask the concierge when making the reservation or checking in about the hotel's service charge policy. Doing this will avoid any unpleasant surprises at the end of your trip. Remember to give bellhops at least $1(USD) per bag and leave maids $2(USD) per day.

Taxis

When in San Juan, taxis authorized by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company have a distinct look that makes the cab easy for visitors to find. Look for the sentry box logo and the Taxi Turistico label. They charge set rates based on a visitor's particular destination. A city tour can cost you $30(USD) per hour. Metered cabs that are authorized by the Public Service Commission start at $1(USD) with an additional $0.10(USD) per 1/13 mile. There is an additional $0.50(USD) charge per suitcase.

If you are in any other Puerto Rico location, the suggested thing to do is to call for a taxi, whether tourist, metered, or fixed. Many cabs are privately owned and offer door-to-door service; expect a wait until their vehicle is full. When tipping your taxi driver 15 to 20 percent is customary.

Restaurants In Puerto Rico

Restaurants in Puerto Rico run the gamut - from upscale to down-home.