Tipping In Belize: A Traveler's Guide To Gratuity Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Belize, but it is a nice thing to do. While locals don't usually tip, tourists are generally expected to, especially in the tourism sector. The national currency of Belize is the dollar, and prices are often listed with BZD to indicate the Belizean dollar. The Belizean dollar is tied to the US dollar at a rate of 2 BZD to 1 USD. While tipping is discretionary, it is important to note that the minimum wage in the country is very low. In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10-15% of the overall bill, with 10% considered the minimum even if the service isn't great. In bars and cafes, it is common to round the bill to the next significant amount or leave a small tip for each drink ordered. In hotels, it is standard practice to tip between 10-20%, with housekeepers, maids, bellboys, valets, and front desk employees commonly receiving tips. For tour guides, 10-15% of the overall cost of the tour is a reasonable tip. For taxi drivers, it is common to tip 10% for longer journeys, and for short journeys, rounding up the bill to the nearest whole amount is acceptable.

Tipping in restaurants

Tipping is not mandatory in Belize, but it is a nice thing to do. The minimum wage in Belize is very low, and the extra money from tips can go a long way for the people who work in the service industry. While locals don't usually tip, tourists are generally expected to tip, especially in touristy or business areas.

In restaurants, it is customary to tip around 10-15% of the overall bill. Even if the service isn’t particularly great, around 10% of the bill would generally be considered a minimum. If the service is exceptional, you can tip up to 20%.

In some restaurants, you may have the option to pay by card and add a gratuity. However, it is generally better to provide a tip in cash if you want to ensure it goes to the waiting staff, rather than being retained by the restaurant owners.

When dining out in a group, it is common to leave a tip per person, especially if you are with a large group. This is because the tip may be the only income the server makes from your table that night, and it is usually shared among the kitchen staff.

Some restaurants include a service charge on the bill, so always check before deciding whether or not to tip. In restaurants, a service charge is not usually added to your bill, but in hotels, you are likely to see a 10% service charge when you check out. This service charge may not always find its way to the staff, so if you want to ensure your tip gets to the people who served you, it is best to use cash and tip them directly.

When paying by card, it is considered polite to leave a tip that is easy to calculate, to avoid causing the server any inconvenience.

Tipping tour guides

Tipping culture in Belize is quite different from that of the United States, despite the close ties between the two countries' economies. While tipping is not mandatory in Belize, it is a nice way to show gratitude for good service. The minimum wage in Belize is very low, so tips can go a long way in improving the quality of life for those working in the service industry.

Tour guides are commonly expected to receive tips, and the general rule for tipping them is about 10-15% of the overall cost of the tour. If you are taking a scuba diving tour to the Great Blue Hole, the tip can be calculated in two ways: as a percentage of the overall cost of the trip (between 10% and 20%) or as a set amount per oxygen tank (between 5 BZD and 10 BZD).

If you are taking a private tour, it is worth noting that some higher-end hotels and tour companies include a service charge in your bill, so tipping may not be necessary. However, if you feel that the service you received was exceptional, you may choose to give a tip directly to the staff or guide.

When deciding how much to tip, it is important to keep in mind that the Belizean dollar is tied to the US Dollar at a value of 2 BZD to 1 USD. Therefore, when negotiating prices in dollars, be sure to specify the currency. While US Dollars are widely accepted in Belize, it is a good idea to have some local currency on hand, especially when exploring outside the main tourist areas.

Tipping in hotels

When deciding how much to tip, it's worth noting that the minimum wage in Belize is very low, and the money from tips can make a big difference in the lives of the staff. While tipping is not mandatory, it is a nice way to show gratitude for good service.

• Housekeepers and maids: It is common to tip them a small amount daily to show appreciation for their hard work.
• Luggage attendants/porters: It is customary to give a small tip when they help you with your luggage.
• Concierge/receptionist: A tip is not necessary if they are just helping with basic tasks like booking reservations. However, if they go above and beyond, you may want to consider tipping them between 5-10 BZD each time.
• Valet: It is polite to tip a small amount every time they bring your car.

When tipping in hotels in Belize, it is best to use cash in the local currency, Belizean dollars (BZD). While credit cards may be accepted in some hotels, cash ensures that your tip goes directly to the intended staff member. Additionally, credit card companies may charge a fee, reducing the amount that reaches the staff.

Tipping taxi drivers

Tipping in Belize is not mandatory, but it is a nice way to show your appreciation for good service. While taxi drivers in Belize do not usually expect a tip, it is always appreciated, especially for longer journeys or if they help with your luggage. If you want to keep a reliable taxi driver around, tipping them can be a good idea.

If you are pleased with the service provided by your taxi driver, it is common to tip around 10% of the total fare. For example, for a 50 Belizean dollar taxi bill, a tip of 5 Belizean dollars would be appropriate for a longer journey. For shorter journeys, you can simply round up the bill to the nearest significant amount in Belizean dollars.

When taking a taxi in Belize, it is important to note that there are no set rates or fixed fares for specific routes. It is recommended to ask the driver about the fare before getting into the taxi. Additionally, some taxi operators charge an extra fee per passenger, while others charge a set fare for the entire group based on the distance travelled.

While tipping is not expected, it can make a significant difference in the lives of those who receive it. The extra money from tips can help people cover various expenses, such as education or special purchases. Therefore, if you are happy with the service provided by your taxi driver, consider showing your appreciation with a tip.

When not to tip

Tipping in Belize is not mandatory, but it is a nice thing to do. While locals don't usually tip, tourists are generally expected to tip, especially in the tourism industry. Here are some scenarios when you don't have to tip:

• Fast Food and Street Food: Fast-food restaurants and street food carts in Belize typically don't expect tips. You can save your money for sit-down restaurants where you receive table service.
• Arts and Crafts Vendors: If you're buying souvenirs or crafts from local vendors, you don't need to tip them. They set the prices for their goods, and it's not customary to pay extra.
• Taxi Drivers: Generally, taxi drivers in Belize don't expect a tip, especially since they work for themselves and make a decent living. However, if a driver goes out of their way to assist you or provide an exceptional experience, you may consider tipping them.
• Airport Luggage Handlers: While it's not necessary to tip everyone at the airport, it's common to tip the luggage handlers. They expect a small amount, such as BZ$1 per bag.
• When Service is Included: In some restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in your bill. In these cases, an additional tip is not required. However, if you want to reward exceptional service, you can always give a tip directly to the staff who served you.

Frequently asked questions