Is tipping recommended?

Feel good about tipping Cubans. Treat them as you would those who provide services and assistance at home.

Tipping in Cuba is strongly encouraged as it plays a significant role in the income of service staff at hotels, casas particulares, restaurants, museums, etc. It is also a universally recognized way of expressing gratitude for exceptional service. When planning your travel to Cuba, it is important to keep in mind the costs associated with tipping.

Tipping can be done in either foreign currency (such as EUROS or US DOLLARS) or in the local currency, CUBAN PESOS. However, it is also generally acceptable to tip in major foreign currencies such as Canadian Dollars (CAD) and Pound Sterling (GBP).

In the event that you develop a special connection with a staff member, it is appropriate to offer a thoughtful gift along with any personal items you no longer need, as a token of appreciation. Don't leave toothpaste, leftover toiletries and other used items, or foreign coins in place of tips.

The Cuban Peso (CUP) is the official currency in the island. All goods and services are priced and paid for in the CUP. The CUP floats in value against world currencies and exchange rates vary daily. Today's rates are based on 1.00 USD equals 120.00 CUP.

We recommend the following amounts:

• Tour Guide: 8.00 USD/ EUROS per day per person

• Tour Bus Driver: 5.00 USD/ EUROS per day per person

• Porters: 1.00 USD/ EUROS per person or more if you have lots of bags

• Restaurant staff: 10% of cost of meal or 1.00 USD/ EUROS whichever is greater, per meal per person

• Chambermaids: 2.00 USD/ EUROS per day per room (can be split with your roommate)

• Taxi Drivers: 10% of total fare in USD/ EUROS

• Museum guides and special guides: 1.00 USD/ EUROS per person

• Bartenders: 1.00 USD/ EUROS per drink