What is the tipping etiquette in Mexico?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary
If you're planning to visit Mexico, you'll likely want to know the tipping etiquette, as many Mexicans rely on tips to supplement their income. This blog post will provide a comprehensive overview of when and how to tip in Mexico, so you can better understand the acceptable protocol and show your appreciation for their services.

Tipping etiquette in Mexico can vary depending on the situation and location. It is generally customary to leave a tip, or propina, to show appreciation for good service. Here are some guidelines and examples of tipping etiquette in different situations:
1. Restaurants:
- In restaurants, it is common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill. Some upscale restaurants may automatically add a service charge to the bill (usually around 10%). In this case, an additional tip is not expected but can be given for exceptional service.
- When paying the bill with a credit card, it is customary to leave the tip in cash, directly to the server. This ensures that the tip goes directly to the service staff.
- If you had exceptional service or a large group, you may consider leaving a larger tip to show your appreciation.
Example: If the bill comes out to 500 pesos, you can leave a tip of around 50-75 pesos.
2. Bars and Nightclubs:
- In bars, it is customary to tip 10-15% of the total bill.
- If you are ordering drinks directly from the bartender, it is common to tip them each time or leave a tip at the end of the night.
Example: If your bill at a bar is 300 pesos, leaving around 30-45 pesos as a tip would be appropriate.
3. Taxi:
- In Mexico, it is not expected to tip taxi drivers. However, if the driver provides exceptional service or assists with luggage, a small tip can be given as a gesture of gratitude.
- It is also common to round up the fare to the nearest peso or add a few extra pesos as a tip.
Example: If your taxi fare is 65 pesos, rounding up to 70 pesos or giving an additional 5-10 pesos would be acceptable.
4. Hotel Staff:
- At hotels, tipping is common for services such as bellboys, housekeeping, and concierge. It is advisable to tip these staff members individually, as per the service they provide.
- Bellboys usually receive around 20-50 pesos per bag depending on the hotel's level of luxury.
- Housekeeping staff generally receive between 20-50 pesos per day, left in an envelope.
Example: If you have two bags and use the bellboy service, leaving a tip of 40-100 pesos would be appropriate. For housekeeping, a 20-50 pesos per day tip is suitable.
Remember, tipping customs can vary, so it is essential to consider the quality of service and the location when deciding on the tip amount. Always respect local customs and use your discretion when determining the appropriate tip.Before embarking on your journey to mexico, make sure to check the latest travel guidelines and entry requirements to ensure a smooth trip

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