Tipping In Central America
 

Some friends have just booked an all-inclusive trip to Costa Rica. Does anyone have experience in this area and know if tipping is necessary, even though it is supposed to be included. If so, what percentage would be reasonable? Any other travel tips? They don't speak Spanish.

Liza

Tipping is becoming more popular in tourist destinations (mostly due to folks traveling from the US), but it is not expected outside of them. If your friends go off the beaten path, a tip may be offered if service has been exceptional. Giving a ten percent tip is quite adequate. Using bills (not coins) is expected. Dollar bills are gladly accepted.

In tourist destinations, there are guides that speak English.

Costa Rica is quite beautiful. Excursions of all kinds exist. Should your friends venture out on their own, not knowing Spanish will make things difficult for them. The Spanish spoken in Costa Rica is riddled with slang, and they don't roll their r's there (another sound is said instead).

Thank you Rusty - I think that that will be helpful.