TIPPING IN BERMUDA

In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades.

The questions `when?` and `how much?` that surround tipping can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

In Bermuda, there is normally a service charge of at least 10% added to most tourist-related services. A tip of 20% is the normal amount to tip on top of your bill if a service charge has not been added. You can still choose to tip extra on top of the service charge depending on the service you received.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars?

The currency of Bermuda is the Bermudian dollar, with a one-to-one ratio to the US Dollar. Bermudian dollars and US dollars are interchangeable on the island. There are exchange desks found in the airport and at banks in the main towns across the island including St George's Town, tipping is discretionary and greatly appreciated.

 Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

In Bermuda restaurants there is normally a service charge added to your bill, if so then no additional tip is expected. However, you can still tip a few dollars on top of this to your server if you received excellent service. A tip of 20% is normal in restaurants. 

 Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Many hotel bills in Bermuda are subject to a service/gratuity charge and or daily resort fee to cover certain things like the health club, etc. Make sure to check your final bill for a service charge. You can tip staff members individually throughout your stay for good service. Tipping hotel porters a few dollars, and the same for housekeeping daily is welcomed and appreciated. 

 Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

In Bermuda, it is customary to tip taxi drivers between 10-15% of the total fare. 

Cruise Ships: Is a tip required?

On cruise ships in Bermuda, a gratuity of $15-$25 is normally automatically added to your account for certain services, be sure to check your final bill closely. There is normally a 15-20% gratuity added to beverages, you can tip porters at the pier a few dollars for good service. 

Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. This is also true for hotel staff, however, if you should encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.

When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.