Tipping is absolutely not required but it is common to tip for good service since the staff works so hard.
The Caribbean has been hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, given that they rely so heavily on tourism from the US, Canada, and Europe, so any amount is sincerely appreciated. On the same note, staff are not encouraged to actively/aggressively/repeatedly solicit tips from guests so if you experience this at your resort, please let your agent know.
The following is a guide to tipping averages – tipping is at your discretion and cash is preferred (USD/CAD):
Shuttle Driver/Excursion Bus Driver: $5 each way
Restaurant/Pool Wait Staff:
Breakfast Buffet: $2-$3
Lunch: $3-$4
Dinner $7-$10
Around the pool/beach during the day: $15 a day
Bartenders: $1 per drink or before you leave the bar if you plan to stay for a while
Housekeeping staff *:
Daily housekeeper: $5 a day (leave at the end of your stay in your room before checking out)
Turndown: $3 a day (leave in your room on your last night before heading out to dinner )
Mini-bar: if you ask for something special or unique, a few dollars would be a nice gesture before you ask or when you receive it!
Spa Staff: This is really the only expected tip you’ll plan for. Customary 20% per treatment, just as in the U.S. - charge to your room or pay at the time of service.
Butlers - if your room has a butler, chat with your agent about the appropriate tip.
Off-property tour guides: at your discretion.
*Resorts have separate staff for each of these 3 housekeeping tasks, it is not the same person attending to these items.