TIPPING IN REUNION

In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. It is an etiquette that is ingrained in all trades, from wait staff at restaurants to our baristas, valets, cab drivers, porters, and many more trades.

The questions `when?` and `how much?` that surround tipping can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter. Hopefully using these `tips` will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

Tipping in Reunion is not common or expected.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Euro?

Reunion is part of the Eurozone, so as in many other European Union countries the currency used is the euro (symbol: €).

It is compulsory, for the large majority of businesses, to post prices in windows. Hotels and restaurants must have their rates visible from outside.

Most shops accept international credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) but most of them require a minimum amount for credit cards payments (usually €15).

There are a number of ATM machines (called `gabier`) which don't charge you for using them.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

In Restaurants a service charge is often included. If its not then you should tip up to 10% if the service was good. Tipping bartenders is not common or expected.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Most hotels included service charge, otherwise tipping isn’t required.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

Tipping taxis drivers on the island isn't common. You can round up the fare if the service was good. Beware though, catching a taxi is expensive!

Final Thoughts:

Reunion is a small French island, so a lot of the tipping culture comes from there. Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. This is also true for hotel staff, however, if you should encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.

When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.