Service charge/room tax Aruba
Jan 13th, 2004, 09:12 AM
#1
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Service charge/room tax Aruba
We are taking a trip to Aruba and Bonaire next summer. I've been looking at the Bucuti or Manchebo for our time on Aruba. Noticed today that both add a 19% "service charge/tax" to the daily room rate. This seems a bit steep to me-is this typical? We've never been to the Caribbean before.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Jan 13th, 2004, 09:50 AM
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Yes, it's typical.
We stayed at the Manchebo four years ago and paid about 18%. This includes both taxes and service charges. Good luck figuring out who gets the service charges.
Paid similar percentages in the USVI and Turks & Caicos. Seems like Jamaica was a bit less, but that was several years ago.
We stayed at the Manchebo four years ago and paid about 18%. This includes both taxes and service charges. Good luck figuring out who gets the service charges.
Paid similar percentages in the USVI and Turks & Caicos. Seems like Jamaica was a bit less, but that was several years ago.
Jan 13th, 2004, 11:51 AM
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So then, does this "service charge" take the place of gratuities or is money for the maid service, bartender, concierge still expected?
Also, cdt, how did you like your stay at Manchebo?
Thanks!
Also, cdt, how did you like your stay at Manchebo?
Thanks!
Jan 13th, 2004, 12:51 PM
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Some of the money allegedly filters down to staff, but it does not take the place of gratuities. Tips are still appropriate.
We liked the Manchebo and thought it was an excellent value - nothing fancy, but well-managed and well-maintained. The beach there is fantastic (as it is for the neighboring Bucuti and Costa Linda).
I would recommend paying the extra cost for an oceanfront room. We didn't and had a view of a wall.
The Bucuti is slightly more upscale, but if I could get an oceanfront room at the Manchebo for less money than the Bucuti, I'd stay there again. Both have rather basic pools, but they're not crowded due to the small number of rooms. Good restaurants at both hotels and easy access to many others.
We liked the Manchebo and thought it was an excellent value - nothing fancy, but well-managed and well-maintained. The beach there is fantastic (as it is for the neighboring Bucuti and Costa Linda).
I would recommend paying the extra cost for an oceanfront room. We didn't and had a view of a wall.
The Bucuti is slightly more upscale, but if I could get an oceanfront room at the Manchebo for less money than the Bucuti, I'd stay there again. Both have rather basic pools, but they're not crowded due to the small number of rooms. Good restaurants at both hotels and easy access to many others.
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:53 PM
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cdt, thanks for the info.
Surprisingly, the rates for an Oceanview room at both for the summer 2004 are the same (160.00). Although, with the 19% added, I guess that makes the rate about 190.00/night
Surprisingly, the rates for an Oceanview room at both for the summer 2004 are the same (160.00). Although, with the 19% added, I guess that makes the rate about 190.00/night
Jan 14th, 2004, 07:44 AM
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I just looked at Costco )www.costco.com) and they have Bucuti for about $120.00 per day inclusive and includes transfers. These prices are for travel from Dec. thru April so the summer prices may be less. Good luck.
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