TIPPING IN ST KITTS AND NEVIS ISLANDS
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.
Tipping in St Kitts and Nevis Islands is discretionary and should reflect the service you have received, however, tipping around 10 - 15% is recommended.
The national currency of St. Kitts & Nevis is Eastern European dollar (EC$) and although most major hotel chains, large restaurants and shops accept US dollars, be prepared that the change will be given in local Easter Caribbean dollars, a currency without use once you leave the islands.
Credit cards are also accepted most everywhere in St. Kitts and Nevis, but small inns and local shops situated further away from the tourist area might not welcome this form of payment. If you are planning on travelling and exploring the islands remotely from downtown area, it is beneficial to keep some cash handy.
Banks and ATMs, that only dispense EC dollars, are located on both St. Kitts and Nevis, and can be easily spotted at the airports and local banks.
Some vendors have their prices displayed in both, US and EC currencies; however, with the local conversion rates, you will end up paying slightly more if you use your US money. But unless you are making a large purchase the difference in price is not that significant.
In most cases, a 10%-15% Service Charge is added to the bill, which is divided among the waitstaff. If the surcharge was not included in the bill, kindly leave anywhere between 10%-15% on top of the final invoice. If you have good service you certainly can leave an additional tip, this is at your discretion.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip? Normally, the hotels will add a 10%-15% service charge to all of their bills. Carefully inspect before paying, and in case the gratuity was not included, be generous and leave at least 15% for the staff. Anything on top of that is at the sole discretion of the guest.
Bellhops and porters generally get $1 per each bag they help you carry while housekeepers and maids receive $2-$3 in tips per day.
Tipping taxi drivers in St. Lucia is expected. You should aim to tip about 10%.
Taxi drivers get 10% of the trip fare, and if he/she went out of their way and acted as your tour guide or helped you with your heavy luggage, feel free to leave a few extra dollars. Final Thoughts:Remember, gratuities are just that - gratuities to show your appreciation for the service rendered. In the overall scheme of your travel budget it may be a small amount for you, but to the person on the receiving end, it could make all the difference. You will be very much appreciated if you make an effort to reward them for their service on your St. Kitts and Nevis vacation.