We have been asked many times about tipping whilst on holiday in Florida.
I certainly feel that it is a purely a personal opinion as to what you give.
The word tip is considered an acronym for “to insure promptness” but these days’ tips are expected and due to the nature of wages in Florida tips make up a big part of the waiting staffs wages. It is expected that you tip for all services you get.
A good guide used to be between 10% and 15% but nowadays 15% to 20% seems to be the norm,
British people tend not to be as aware of the tipping “rule” as in the UK tips are not generally expected but we always tip whatever country we are in if we receive good service.
We always try to have several $1 bills available so you can leave the exact amount that you feel is appropriate
For example if the waiting staff are good but there is a problem with the meal then we would still leave a tip as the fault would not be with the waiting staff
This list below are what is a generalisation of what is considered appropriate but do remember that a tip is a way of showing your satisfaction to the service received and if you get exceptional service then a tip should reflect this and like wise if I get extremely bad service then I personally would only leave a small amount
Restaurants
Waiting Staff 15% to 20%
Always check the bill first before leaving a tip if your party is 6 or more as sometimes this is added to your bill
Buffet Restaurants 10% of the bill is ok
Bartenders 15% of the bill or say $1 whatever is the greatest
In Hotels
Parking Valets $1 or $2 when you leave or collect your car
Bell Boy $1 a bag
Maids $1 or $2 a day left at the end of your stay
Airport
Porters $1 a bag
Other services
Pizza delivery service $2 to $3
Taxi drivers $3 to $5
I do hope this helps
In all the time we have been going to the US we have only ever once left a one cent tip to show our displeasure. Generally though we have found service in Florida is very good, but do remember there are no set rules just use your own judgement, this is purely our opinion on tipping.