Panama Tipping / Gratuity guidelines

Taxi
Drivers do not expect tips. Any intended gratuity should be figured in with the pre-trip negotiated fare.

Hotel
Generally, a 10 percent service charge is figured into the overall tab. Tipping individual staff directly is sometimes appropriate.

Hotel Porters
50 to 75 cents per piece.

Hotel Chambermaids
Usually over-looked, probably those most deserving of a gratuity. $1/ day would be a nice tip.

Restaurant
If a restaurant does not include a service charge, tip 10 to 15 percent.

Taxes

Hotel rates in Panama attract a 10% tax, so it is important to check whether the quoted rate includes this amount. Sales tax is generally 5% although cars attract a 10% tax.