In Mexico, tipping ("propina") raises some questions from travelers, especially French. In the tourist areas of Mexico City as on the Riviera Maya, frequented by many Americans, restaurants have long since become accustomed to including 15% service charge in the bill, as in the United States.
To discover
- Give us your opinion on Le Figaro Voyage
- Travel to Mexico: tours, hotels and tailor-made stays from our partners
Except that on this side of the Rio Grande, Mexican law does not require anyone to leave a tip, neither in restaurants nor elsewhere. You are therefore free to deduct these service fees from your bill or to give the amount of your choice as a tip. Or even to leave nothing at all!
Read alsoBread and cutlery, tip or glass of water: what you will pay at the restaurant abroad
10% to 20%
Note, however, that some establishments use this questionable method to compensate for the precariousness of people who work in hotels, restaurants and certain service trades in Mexico. Indeed, throughout the country, tips make it possible to double an often very low salary. Sometimes they are even the only source of income for workers. In general, tourists give between 10% and 20% of the amount of the bill, depending on their satisfaction with the service.
" READ ALSO The mole, this amazing chocolate paste that Mexicans love
If for the French, tipping suggests that one is satisfied with the quality of the service received, in Mexico, it is rather a reflex as well as a form of support for poorly paid professions.
Even when they buy a takeout meal, Mexicans who can leave a tip. So don't be surprised if you're encouraged to leave a few coins at the checkout of grocery stores, gas stations or convenience stores and supermarkets. Same thing if you travel by car: it is fashionable to leave a dozen pesos to those who are responsible for finding you an available parking space, the tip is usually their only salary.