So here's a slight variation on the how much and whom do I tip issues...

In the US, it's generally not customary to tip the owner of an establishment, even in cases where we tould tip employees of that establishment.

But what about in the Caribbean? Not like a guy who does his own taxi service--that's a no brainer--you tip him. If the owners of a villa also do the upkeep or housekeeping for a villa, would they be tipped? I would assume so. I generally think that when in doubt it's better to err on the side of tipping, but I'd appreciate any insight.

Any thoughts? Discussion?

Hi EJ ! Nothing carved in stone here, but if the owners are doing the housekeeping, and/or gardening and just generally available to help you, I would certainly tip a percentage of the villa rental fee. The amount would be determined by their involvement.

I also enjoy bringing small gifts to villa owners...a "hostess" gift. I know you are travelling with a "roll aboard", so my suggestion of hand cream or body lotion won't work. Costume jewelry is always a hit...be it bracelet or earrings.

Maybe a small vase from an artisan in your area, which could be filled with tropical flowers for years to come.

It IS the thought that counts and it can be fun to be creative ;-)

Anything will be appreciated, with the exception of a bottle of undrinkable spirits ;-) That's not a tip that's an insult. You know that, of course. I just couldn't resist a little jab ;-) I must be feeling better !

Marion

Oh, Marion--it's so good to see your spirits have returned to their naughty best!

I've since found out that the owners of the villa where we're staying are expecting their first child, so my husband will bring some of his books for them (he's a children's book illustrator, among other things). So I think we'll bring the picture books and just leave good old fashioned moolah.

This is such an interesting question. I would never think of tipping the owners of a villa. I assume they figure their costs into the rent.

I don't mean to be cheap, I'm sensitive to the issue and always tip the appropriate people.

One question and I don't know if this has anything to do with tipping, but, did you rent directly from the owners or through an agency?

We are staying at a European apartment soon for a week. One of the owners will meet us there and will be available during the week in case of problems or just questions. It didn't occur to me to leave them a tip.

I wonder what others have done, or what is expected.

I do think bringing some children's books with your husband's illustrations is a lovely, thoughtful idea. Wish I was talented!

CW

Hmmm interesting topic. Would not have thought of tipping the villa owners, but thank goodness we have not stayed in one where the owners do the housekeeping.

The childrens books is a great idea! We always bring a little something from our home state, which usually ends up being VA peanuts. We used to do wine, but since the liquid restrictions it makes it more difficult.

Have a great time ejcrowe! Can't wait for your trip report so I can add to my Grenada notes.

To answer the other questions asked...No, I did not rent the villa directly from the owners. I went through a rental agency, www.spiceislevillas.com, the same one I used last year. The owners live on site and do all of their own maintenance and gardening, with housekeeping every other day or so. They are also on hand to answer questions, night & day, to offer advice, and in general make sure we're comfortable and enjoying our stay.

This year I'm renting directly from the owners a small self-catering apartment for the first part of my stay before moving into the villa for the second part of my stay.

Does this information make any of you change your answers? cw, I think the tipping structure of the Caribbean is probably pretty different from that of most of Europe. I'd doubt that those owners would be expecting a tip, per se. Perhaps a small gift from your hometown would be appreciated?

ejcrowe,

Thanks for your reply. Agree with you about Europe.

I can certainly see wanting to leave something for the owners who perform many additional services for you.

CW