The general rule
In the Dominican Republic tips aren't included in most tourist services and are given in cash. Amounts are modest and genuinely appreciated: a dollar or two makes a real difference to the person who looked after you.
By service
- —Transfer driver: US$5–10 for the whole service, if they took care of you. In a group, split it or whoever booked gives it.
- —Luggage help (bellboy, airport): a dollar or two per bag.
- —Housekeeping: a dollar or two per day, left daily rather than all at the end.
- —Restaurant servers: 10–15% if it isn't already on the bill.
- —Excursion guides: US$5–10 per person, at the end of the tour.
Which currency
US dollars and Dominican pesos are both accepted. US dollars circulate most in tourist areas. Carry small bills — that's the most common snag: breaking a US$50 to leave a US$2 tip isn't always possible.
What not to do
- —Don't tip in Dominican peso coins — they're practically unusable.
- —Don't put it on the card. Staff receive it late, or not at all.
- —Don't tip out of pressure. If something wasn't right, you don't tip.
Frequently asked
Is the tip included in the restaurant bill?
Sometimes, especially in hotel restaurants. Check the bill: if it says “service included” or “10%”, it's already there.
How much for the transfer driver?
US$5–10 for the whole service is customary when it went well. It's never required and never asked for.