Tipping

david miller · 02-26-2007

Does anyone know the rules of tipping in Panama? Is it expected? If so, what percentage/amount would you give for restaurants, taxis, hotel staff, personal services like beauty salon?

talulla · 02-27-2007

Hi David! In my experience, tipping is usually expected in restaurants (10% to 15%), but not at pizza or hamburger fast food restaurants. You can give hotel staff an average of $2 to $3 per day (it depends on the hotel; more for five-star hotels). As for a beauty salon you would tip the person that served you no more than $2. Although taxi fare is very cheap in Panama, tipping a taxi isn't common at all.

cessy · 03-07-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by talulla

Hi David! In my experience, tipping is usually expected in restaurants (10% to 15%), but not at pizza or hamburger fast food restaurants. You can give hotel staff an average of $2 to $3 per day (it depends on the hotel; more for five-star hotels). As for a beauty salon you would tip the person that served you no more than $2. Although taxi fare is very cheap in Panama, tipping a taxi isn't common at all.

That is a very helpful information tallula. At least we know what the citizens expect from tourists whenever they render service. It would be very embarrassing on my part if I were not able to give something what is due them.

Kitty · 03-16-2007

Great info tallula! Didn't know that about taxis... will stop that now.

cessy · 03-20-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kitty

Great info tallula! Didn't know that about taxis... will stop that now.

Does that mean that you have been giving tips whenever you ride a cab at Panama? How much do you usually give to them? It seems that you are so kind, Kitty.

Kitty · 03-22-2007

Oh well... if they would ask for $1.75, I would usually give them $2. My warm little "kitty" heart just wouldn't want to make them sad.

cessy · 03-22-2007

That’s so nice of you. So the taxi drivers are asking for a tip? If I were a taxi driver in Panama, I would definitely look forward to take you for a ride anytime.

themark · 09-12-2007

I almost always tip well at any place where I will go to regularly. That way the servicepeople will give me better treatment.