Today in Las Vegas Magazine

Tips on Vegas

SOME TIPS ON TIPPING

Las Vegas is a tip-driven resort destination. Having a clear picture of how the system works will help you have a more enjoyable time, while remembering that many service employees receive most of their income in the form of tips. Some general guidelines:

Bell Captains, Bellmen and Airline Baggage Handlers:
While it pretty much depends on the size of the baggage load handled for you, it's conventional to tip around $5 if you have several bags, but no less than $1 a bag. Also, remember that they all can perform many other services for you, such as arrangements for shows, travel, car, etc., so slipping the desk $5 ensures that you'll be well accommodated.

Taxi and Limousine Drivers:
Again, much depends on the service and courtesy, but a fair guide is about 15 to 20 percent. When the driver handles your bags, loading or unloading, you might add a dollar a bag or so. On short cab trips, like across The Strip, a few dollars up to $5 is in order, considering the drivers wait in the cab line.

Showroom Maitre d's and Ushers:
In the few showrooms where seating is not reserved but remains at the discretion of the Maitre d', a tip from $5 to $20 helps get you desired seating.

Front Desk Personnel:
Because of their valuable assistance, at check-in and through your stay, the front desk people act as fill-in concierges, bell persons and more. As such, they are well deserving of tips, depending on the chore, all the way from one dollar to ten.

Restaurant and Room Service:
Waiter and waitresses in Las Vegas usually are tipped the same as in any city, 15% or slightly more, depending on how you enjoyed the service.

Cocktail Waitresses and Bartenders:
For paying customers, a dollar a round for two people, $2 for four and a little more for larger rounds. For complimentary drinks, $1 per drink is appreciated.

Dealers and Slot People:
At the tables, players usually tip by placing a small bet from time to time for the dealers, depending on how luck and their service is treating you. Tipping keno runners and slot people usually comes from good service by the runners and change people, plus your run of luck, of course.

Valet Parking and Maids:
A tip of $2 to the car attendant is in order and, as in other countries, leaving the maid a tip is always appreciated, about a dollar or two per day (maids often change daily).

Spa and Pool Attendants:
For spa attendants, $2 per service is appreciated; for pool attendants, $1 per chair/service.

Hotel Courtesy Shuttle Drivers:
This is a no-charge service by the majority of hotels. The drivers strive to be of help to visitors in many ways and a $1 or more tip per person, or $4-$5 per party normally is warranted.