Tipping

Propinas (tips) are a question of rewarding good service rather than an obligation. Restaurant bills—even those that have a cubierto (bread and service charge)—don't include gratuities; locals usually add 10%–15%. Bellhops and maids expect tips only in the very expensive hotels, where a tip in dollars is appreciated. You can also give a small tip (10% or less) to tour guides. Porteños round off taxi fares, though some cabbies who frequent hotels popular with tourists seem to expect more. Tipping is a nice gesture with beauty and barbershop personnel—5% to 10% is fine.