Bermuda's service industry operates somewhat differently than what you may be accustomed to with automatic gratuities often added to your bills, particularly at restaurants and hotels. This guide will help you understand when and how much to tip on the island.
In Bermuda, gratuities are often automatically added at restaurants, typically around 15-17%. If a service charge is not included, a tip of 15-20% is customary. For taxis, rounding up the fare is standard practice.
When you're dining or traveling in Bermuda, understanding when and how much to tip can be crucial for a smooth experience.
In Bermuda, tipping is a recognized part of the service industry, but it might differ slightly from what you're used to. There's a blend of both British and American influences in the local tipping culture in Bermuda. However, unlike the United States, a service charge is often added automatically to your bill in many establishments.
While the United States has a well-known tipping culture with gratuities regularly given for most services, in Bermuda, it's common for a service charge of usually 15% or 17% to be already included in restaurant bills. This might come as a surprise if you're from a country where tipping is less standardized or even considered discourteous.
When you're at a restaurant, review your bill to see if a service charge has been added. If not, a tip of 10-15% is generous for good service. For taxi services, a 10% tip is customary. At hotels, it's polite to tip the bell staff around $1 per bag and housekeeping $1-2 per night. Keep in mind that while tips are appreciated, they are not obligatory if a service charge has already been applied.
When visiting Bermuda, it's important to understand the customary practices regarding service charges and when to provide additional tips for services.
| Service Category | Service Charge | Additional Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 15-17% typically included | Not expected if service charge included |
| Bars | Varies | Tip based on service quality if no service charge |
| Hotels | May be added to bill | Tip bellboy or maid if no service charge |
| Taxis | No automatic gratuity | Round up fare or add 10% for good service |
Restaurants in Bermuda typically include a service charge of about 15 to 17 percent in your bill. If this charge is included, an extra tip is not expected. Check your bill to confirm whether a gratuity has been automatically added. In bars, if the service charge isn't included, consider tipping on the quality of service received.
For hotels, a service charge might also be added to your bill. This is generally the case for the services you receive during your stay. If the service charge is not included, it is customary to tip the bellboy or maid a small amount for their services.
When taking taxis, the approach is slightly different. Most fares are metered, and while there isn't an automatic gratuity, it is common to round up the fare or add about 10% as a tip for good service. Always check if the service was satisfactory before deciding on the tip amount.
When visiting Bermuda, it's helpful to know the customary tipping practices for different service providers to ensure you're both generous and respectful in showing your appreciation.
| Service Provider | Suggested Tip | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Waitstaff | 10-15% (if no service charge) | Check for automatic service charge |
| Bartenders | Extra for exceptional service | Only if no service charge is added |
| Taxi Drivers | 10% on top of fare | Especially for luggage help or local insights |
| Tour Guides | Discretionary | Well received for a great experience |
| Hotel Maid/Cleaning Staff | $1-2 per night | |
| Hotel Bell Boy | $1 per bag | Check for included service charge |
In Bermuda, the norm for tipping waitstaff is typically a 10% to 15% gratuity if a service charge isn't already included on your bill. However, at many establishments, you'll find that a 15% to 17% service charge is automatically added. For bartenders, it's customary to leave extra if the service was exceptional. Check your bill for a service charge before deciding whether an additional tip is warranted.
Taxi drivers in Bermuda generally expect a 10% tip on top of the fare. It’s a gesture to show appreciation for their service, especially if they’ve helped with luggage or shared local insights. When it comes to tour guides, tipping is similarly discretionary but always well received, especially if they have provided an informative and engaging experience.
For hotel staff, tipping practices vary. A maid or cleaning staff should typically receive around $1-2 per night. If you encounter a bell boy, a standard tip is $1 per bag. Always check to see if a service charge is included in your hotel bill, as this can sometimes cover gratuity for hotel staff.
In Bermuda, managing your money wisely is crucial, especially when it comes to understanding when to use cash for tips and knowing what currency is accepted.
Carrying some Bermudian dollars with you is a smart move for those times when a service charge isn't included in your bill. While many restaurants in Bermuda add a gratuity of 15%-17% automatically, not all do, and for those that don't, you'll want to tip your waiter in cash, typically around 10%-15% of your total bill. Likewise, tipping for taxi services, bellboys, and housekeeping in cash is customary and appreciated.
Bermuda's currency is the Bermudian dollar (BMD), which is pegged to the US dollar; US dollars are widely accepted. However, before you leave home, consider exchanging currency or withdrawing Bermudian dollars from an ATM upon arrival. While ATMs are convenient, always check for fraudulent charges and be wary of machines that look tampered with. This precaution ensures your funds remain secure and accessible for your expenditures.
In Bermuda, tipping is more than a routine gesture; it represents your recognition of exceptional service. Discretionary tipping is your way to reward and encourage the personalized attention you receive.
When dining in Bermuda, exceptional service refers to a server's ability to anticipate your needs, demonstrate extensive knowledge of the menu, and maintain a courteous demeanor throughout your experience. A server who goes beyond the standard service, making your meal memorable, certainly deserves recognition. If such standout service is provided, consider it a prompt for discretionary gratuity.
Gratuity is typically included in your bill at Bermudian restaurants. However, if a server delivers exceptional service, you have the discretion to add an additional tip. This is seen as a gesture of thanks for the extraordinary experience provided. When you decide to tip beyond the standard gratuity, it is implying that your server has significantly exceeded your expectations.
Your willingness to offer a discretionary tip not only compliments the server but also motivates excellent service industry-wide in Bermuda.
When visiting Bermuda, understanding the local customs around tipping can ensure you navigate the island's service industry with ease and fairness.
In Bermuda, many restaurants and hotels include a service charge on your bill. This charge is often around 15% to 17% and is meant to serve as gratuity for the staff. It is not a government tax and goes directly to the service employees. Before deciding if additional tipping is necessary, always check your bill to see if a service charge has already been added.
At all-inclusive resorts or packages, gratuities are typically included in your total cost. However, if you encounter staff who provide exceptional service, it’s a kind gesture to offer an extra tip. Even in all-inclusive settings, personal and exceptional service can be acknowledged with a discreet tip, reflecting your appreciation for their extra effort.
To avoid over-tipping in Bermuda, always review your service bills carefully. Restaurants usually add a 15% service charge, and additional gratuities might only be necessary for outstanding service. In the case of taxi services, a 10% tip of the fare is common practice. Remember that tipping is a sign of gratitude for service provided, so use your discretion based on the level of service you receive.
When you visit different parts of Bermuda, you'll notice that tipping customs can vary based on location and type of service. Here's what you should know depending on where you find yourself on the island.
On tours through the iconic Bermuda Triangle, gratuity expectations may differ. If your tour guide provides a memorable experience filled with fascinating facts and safety, consider a tip reflecting 10-15% of the tour cost. Always check if gratuity isn't included in your ticket price and feel free to reward exceptional service.
Cruises docking at King's Wharf often include tips in your package, but for exceptional personal service on board or during coastal excursions, an additional tip is appreciated. In coastal restaurants or services, look out for an added service charge on your bill, usually around 15-17%, and tip additionally at your discretion for standout service.
If you're exploring beyond the coast, such as the serene paths of the Railway Trail, tipping may be less expected but is always welcomed for outstanding service. In smaller, local dining spots that might not include a service charge, a tip of 10-15% of your bill acknowledges the personal attention and local charm you've enjoyed.
