myTobago – your questions, review and comment about Tobago

Having just read Steve's page on the etiquette of Tobago tipping, can anyone advise me on the local etiquette of tipping villa staff?

The villa we're renting has a house keeper/handyman/gardener who lives on-site. And there's a cleaner who comes in every day except Sunday, who we think is his spouse.

Assuming we're happy with them (can't think why we wouldn't be!), we'd like to give them a decent tip to thank them for looking after us. What's the best way to approach giving them a tip and what sort of amount? We're there for 2 weeks.

I can only speak personally, Gary, but immediately prior to departure, I always corner the housekeeper, gardener and any other staff on their own, thank them and slip them a small folded envelope with my gratuity. The important thing is not to do it in front of other people.

How much depends upon a ton of factors, of course. Just remember that the minimum hourly rate, which many housekeepers will be on, is only TT$9 per hour - so £30-£35 per week. Your contribution can make a big difference, without breaking your pocket.