I'm staying at an all-inclusive Cancun resort and besides leaving tips, I'd like to bring some small gifts that the staff might appreciate. Any suggestions on what to bring from the States? What about a gift (bribe?) for the front desk person who assigns rooms?

See my reply with other post under tipping at AI's.<BR>(P.S. They will REALLY appreciate any friendly gestures you make, but don't be surprised if they are VERY amazed...)

Oops, sorry Royal. Forgot the question about the front desk person. What I do is this...<BR>Before I get to the hotel, I try on the phone to get bumped up to a better category of room with the reservations center.<BR>Then, I get on the web and use the pics and litereature about the hotel to target the type of room I want.<BR>When I get to the hotel, I am friendly and polite with the front desk person and see if I can upgrade to that room for free or at a minimal cost. (Traveling in the off-season helps a LOT.) <BR>If they do accomodate me, I give them at least $20.00 sometimne during my stay or at check out and mention them favorably on any comment cards I leave.<BR>Being members of hotel "frequent guests" clubs also helps.

We had a great trip. We told the guy at the desk that we were celebrating our anniversary (This was true!) and he did give us an ocean-front room. My brother&sister-in-law were travelling with us and did not get ocean-front. We gave the guy a tip and he seemed surprised and almost embarrased. Thanks for the tip

Royal!<BR>Welcome back (but I'm sure you wish you were still there!)<BR>I'm glad you had a good time.<BR>I've found that a smile and treating people in Mexico with respect goes a long way. (As I'm sure you noticed while you were there, that IS a surprise to some of the people who work in the hotels/restaurants.)I know he appreciated your generosity.