Tipping housekeeping staff
November 16th, 2009 at 7:28:26 PM
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I have read on this site and others that I should leave a tip for housekeeping at the end of my stay. Why is that? I have always generously tipped the housekeepers because I think they do the most to insure that my stay is pleasant. I also think that they work the hardest. However, I have always left a generous tip each day of my stay. Why is this wrong? Just wondering and wanting to do the right thing. Regards, Hal
November 16th, 2009 at 9:22:51 PM
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You raise a good point. Why do we tip some people for just doing their job, but not others? I would tip a maid for just doing her job, but not a cashier. Why the difference? My position is that society is in part held together by good manners and proper etiquette. Things like this separate us from the other animals. So I defer to social norms, even when they dont make sense.
Still, I wonder, when did it start to be expected to tip housekeeping? I dont think it was expected just 20 years ago. It seems like there is tip inflation all over the place. I hate to just go with the flow, but dont want to be Mr. Pink either.
Still, I wonder, when did it start to be expected to tip housekeeping? I dont think it was expected just 20 years ago. It seems like there is tip inflation all over the place. I hate to just go with the flow, but dont want to be Mr. Pink either.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
November 16th, 2009 at 10:52:55 PM
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I don't tip housekeeping. I expect a made-up room every night as part of my room rate. If I want extra towels or something, I may ask specifically for them and THEN tip the maid when they are brought to me. This method has the benefit of face-to-face contact.
I know maids are not paid well, but it is not a highly skilled job either. Most people can do it (and many of us do in our own homes).
I think tipping works the best when there is potential for service to be differentiated -- a waiter tending to your table promptly, or a dealer making the game enjoyable, or a cabbie driving courteously (or quickly, if that is what you want). I'm not sure where a maid can provide service differentiation. Either the room's clean or it isn't, and if it isn't I complain to the front desk.
I know maids are not paid well, but it is not a highly skilled job either. Most people can do it (and many of us do in our own homes).
I think tipping works the best when there is potential for service to be differentiated -- a waiter tending to your table promptly, or a dealer making the game enjoyable, or a cabbie driving courteously (or quickly, if that is what you want). I'm not sure where a maid can provide service differentiation. Either the room's clean or it isn't, and if it isn't I complain to the front desk.
November 17th, 2009 at 2:19:56 AM
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As a proud Englishman, and Dealer, I believe tipping should be a reward for services above and beyond normal expectation.
Tipping of housekeeping staff (or anyone in general) should only be done if the service provided is at an appropriately high level. I tipped housekeeping staff last time I was in Vegas because I was impressed not only with the standard of cleanliness after they had done their job, but also with the fact that any and all requests I made were dealt with quickly and with the minimum of fuss.
There is nothing worse in my opinion worse than people who expect tips for performing their jobs to the minimum required level and offering nothing extra in return (maybe thats come from the fact I have to pool my tips, but thats another topic all together)
Tipping of housekeeping staff (or anyone in general) should only be done if the service provided is at an appropriately high level. I tipped housekeeping staff last time I was in Vegas because I was impressed not only with the standard of cleanliness after they had done their job, but also with the fact that any and all requests I made were dealt with quickly and with the minimum of fuss.
There is nothing worse in my opinion worse than people who expect tips for performing their jobs to the minimum required level and offering nothing extra in return (maybe thats come from the fact I have to pool my tips, but thats another topic all together)
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November 17th, 2009 at 5:23:40 AM
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I agree that gratuities should (but are not) only be expected for gratuitous service. However, here in the US at least, they are now expected when a job is done to basic satisfactory levels. Like a cab driver who just drives you somewhere, or a bartender who just pours you a drink. This whole discussion was perfectly and hilariously depicted in the movie Reservoir Dogs. Like everyone else at the table except Mr. Pink, I feel that social norms trump common sense.
May I ask, what is the tipping etiquette in England for the following people, assuming reasonable service, but nothing beyond the call of duty:
Cab drivers:
Waiters:
Bartenders:
May I ask, what is the tipping etiquette in England for the following people, assuming reasonable service, but nothing beyond the call of duty:
Cab drivers:
Waiters:
Bartenders:
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
November 17th, 2009 at 5:57:54 AM
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Its a strange one. Cab Drivers dont usually get tipped, or if they do, it is generally a small amount to round the fare to a round figure, or a small "keep the change gesture"
The same thing applies to bartenders.
For Waiting Staff, I normally tip at most 10% for average service, but I go higher for better service. Simple things like being notified of a wait for the food lead me to tip higher.
However there isnt really a standard tipping system in the UK, it does have a more free system of pay what you think its worth. most service industry staff are more surprised by a tip than by lack of it.
The same thing applies to bartenders.
For Waiting Staff, I normally tip at most 10% for average service, but I go higher for better service. Simple things like being notified of a wait for the food lead me to tip higher.
However there isnt really a standard tipping system in the UK, it does have a more free system of pay what you think its worth. most service industry staff are more surprised by a tip than by lack of it.
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November 17th, 2009 at 6:21:47 AM
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My Dad swore during the 30's & 40's, 10% for a tip was quite generous. Now my wife browbeats me when I don't tip 20% for good service ... 15% tends to be a norm for just average service with us.
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
November 17th, 2009 at 6:48:37 AM
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Tipping is different based on the regions of the world and of course we adhere to where we live and don't apply the standards elsewhere unless we know better.
Part of the tipping formula here in North America is a knowledge of how much people rely on tips for their income. Cab drivers, housekeeping staff, and servers get tipped because they make a minimal wage. For dealers in the United States, they make close to minimum wage and rely on tips. Up here in Ontario, Canada, dealers make a union wage. I personally believe that tipping 15-20% for services in restaurants is over the top at some places but I do it anyway. I understand that wait staff make minimum wage. At the same time, they do not have any education or skills except to take an order, fill your water glass, calculate your bill, and bring your food to and from the table. For a typical $80 bill over 90 minutes, you are expected to tip $15-$20 for 10 minutes of service? Assuming that a server has 8 customers every 90 minutes over a 3 hour period, that works out to about $192 - $256 / shift.... mostly tax free (plus their wage). I think that overall the tipping guideline should be lowered to an expectation of 10% for basic service to %20 for excellent service. If the wait staff share the tips with busboys, cooks, hosts, etcetera, then the guideline might make a bit more sense.
I don't think cashiers are tipped very much (if at all) because they are simply performing a single transaction.
Part of the tipping formula here in North America is a knowledge of how much people rely on tips for their income. Cab drivers, housekeeping staff, and servers get tipped because they make a minimal wage. For dealers in the United States, they make close to minimum wage and rely on tips. Up here in Ontario, Canada, dealers make a union wage. I personally believe that tipping 15-20% for services in restaurants is over the top at some places but I do it anyway. I understand that wait staff make minimum wage. At the same time, they do not have any education or skills except to take an order, fill your water glass, calculate your bill, and bring your food to and from the table. For a typical $80 bill over 90 minutes, you are expected to tip $15-$20 for 10 minutes of service? Assuming that a server has 8 customers every 90 minutes over a 3 hour period, that works out to about $192 - $256 / shift.... mostly tax free (plus their wage). I think that overall the tipping guideline should be lowered to an expectation of 10% for basic service to %20 for excellent service. If the wait staff share the tips with busboys, cooks, hosts, etcetera, then the guideline might make a bit more sense.
I don't think cashiers are tipped very much (if at all) because they are simply performing a single transaction.
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You want the truth! You can't handle the truth!
November 17th, 2009 at 1:16:39 PM
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Witholding guidelines of income taxes in the United States assume that individuals in service industries generate taxable income from tips. Employees are required to report their tips if the amount is in excess of $20 in any one month, and employers are obligated to withold the appropriate amount from their next paycheck. So tips are not tax free (at risk of an audit... something that employees may be willing to risk, but not employers with valuable gaming licenses.
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication - Leonardo da Vinci
November 17th, 2009 at 4:21:17 PM
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I am the original poster and actually my question was why tip housekeeping at the end of the stay rather than each day, which is what I do.
November 17th, 2009 at 5:38:58 PM
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I dont know Hal. But I agree with you on the Daily tipping, as that ensures the maid that services your room actually get the tip. Tipping at end of stay is probably done for convenience.
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November 17th, 2009 at 8:29:41 PM
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Quote: HalI am the original poster and actually my question was why tip housekeeping at the end of the stay rather than each day, which is what I do.
Hal, t makes total sense to tip each day if you're going to tip at all, as that may curry some favor with the housekeeping staff. Who knows, maybe you'll get an extra roll of t.p. or something.
November 18th, 2009 at 8:27:13 AM
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Quote: kristim55Quote: HalI am the original poster and actually my question was why tip housekeeping at the end of the stay rather than each day, which is what I do.
Hal, t makes total sense to tip each day if you're going to tip at all, as that may curry some favor with the housekeeping staff. Who knows, maybe you'll get an extra roll of t.p. or something.
I tip every day and get general get better service. I just stick a couple of bills on the counter and write a note that says "Housekeeping". My job takes me to hotels alot and my wife like to collect extra soaps and shampoos where possible and have found that it is more "productive" to tip each day. Tipping at the end of the stay has the effect of paying off the housekeeping staff that works that day, not necessarily the person who kept you happy for your entire stay.
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You want the truth! You can't handle the truth!
November 18th, 2009 at 8:29:48 AM
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Quote: AyecarumbaWitholding guidelines of income taxes in the United States assume that individuals in service industries generate taxable income from tips. Employees are required to report their tips if the amount is in excess of $20 in any one month, and employers are obligated to withold the appropriate amount from their next paycheck. So tips are not tax free (at risk of an audit... something that employees may be willing to risk, but not employers with valuable gaming licenses.
That's fine, but how can the IRS reconcile the amount of tips that you received versus what you reported??? If I were a waitstaff, I would definitely be low-balling my tips
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You want the truth! You can't handle the truth!
November 18th, 2009 at 12:42:30 PM
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Honestly that's how I was taught to tip housekeeping and I never gave the matter further thought. I leave an envelope, if the hotel provides them, with the tip inside and I write "Housekeeping" on it at the end of my stay.
The exception is when I ask for towels or somethin else. Then I tip the person bringing what I asked for.
The exception is when I ask for towels or somethin else. Then I tip the person bringing what I asked for.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
November 25th, 2009 at 10:06:18 AM
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Since their shifts rotate, and they have days off I usually tip a buck or two each day, as well as a new bedspread, since those don't always get cleaned. Then if the room is unsatisfactory I'll call housekeeping and have it done over.
That's a rarity but it has happened.
That's a rarity but it has happened.
Member In Good Standing!
November 27th, 2009 at 4:04:19 PM
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When I stayed at Bally's about a year ago they had a notice somewhere that using the safe would cost an extra $3 a day (this notice may have been posted on the safe itself). I assume that the housekeeping staff are responsible for reporting whether or not the safe is used, since they are the only hotel personnel who will be in the room on a daily basis. (The safe was not sophisticated enough, as far as I could tell, to report this information wirelessly somehow). I used the safe 4 days, tipped the housekeepers, and the extra $12 did not show on my bill. Of course, they may never charge that $3, and just put those signs up to make you feel good so that after losing hundreds on casino floor, you think you have recovered a phantom $3 from the casino.
November 27th, 2009 at 4:32:32 PM
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Quote: EnvyBonusWhen I stayed at Bally's about a year ago they had a notice somewhere that using the safe would cost an extra $3 a day (this notice may have been posted on the safe itself). I assume that the housekeeping staff are responsible for reporting whether or not the safe is used, since they are the only hotel personnel who will be in the room on a daily basis. (The safe was not sophisticated enough, as far as I could tell, to report this inoformation wirelessly somehow). I used the safe 4 days, tipped the housekeepers, and the extra $12 did not show on my bill. Of course, they may never charge that $3, and just put those signs up to make you feel good so that after losing hundreds on casino floor, you think you have recovered a phantom $3 from the casino.
The Hilton also charges $3 a day for the safe. You have to call a particular number to activate the safe, which also starts the tab running.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
November 27th, 2009 at 6:10:58 PM
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Quote: boymimbo....I would definitely be low-balling my tips
if you put your tips on a credit card, that puts a kink in that
the next time Dame Fortune toys with your heart, your soul and your wallet, raise your glass and praise her thus: Thanks for nothing, you cold-hearted, evil, damnable, nefarious, low-life, malicious monster from Hell! She is, after all, stone deaf. ... Arnold Snyder
May 22nd, 2012 at 1:57:21 PM
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Quote: WizardThe Hilton also charges $3 a day for the safe. You have to call a particular number to activate the safe, which also starts the tab running.
Just out of curiosity, do either of these hotels charge a resort fee? We already know how most people feel about resort fees, but if they are double dipping with this charge I would avoid the properties altogether, at least for an overnight stay.
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:06:27 PM
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I tip each day in the room anywhere from $3-$5 depending on the service.
As an aside - when I was in Australia visiting family - the American contingent would always leaves tips at restaurants - after each meal, upon discovering we had left tips, the Australian family would yell at us that the staff is well-compensated for their jobs and that patrons were not required to subsidize the work of a business's employees like "in the States".
As an aside - when I was in Australia visiting family - the American contingent would always leaves tips at restaurants - after each meal, upon discovering we had left tips, the Australian family would yell at us that the staff is well-compensated for their jobs and that patrons were not required to subsidize the work of a business's employees like "in the States".
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:12:06 PM
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As a frequent customer of hotel (I go to JANugget every weekend in Reno)
I tip as follows:
Valet = $1 upon departure (when I dropoff, I only tip if I ask for a special service; such as keeping it in the shade, or close-by)
Bellman = $2 upon delivery of luggage (I have three suitcases)
Cocktails = $1 per round (there are 3-4 of us playing so 3-4 drinks = 1 round)
Restaraunts = 10% of bill. (All the food is comped, but it shows how much the food is pre-tax; 10% of that)
Housekeeping staff = $1 upon delivery (When we arrive in the room we always get decaf coffee brought up, as it is not in the room, only regular is)
I no longer play table games, so I cannot comment on how I tip dealers..although I was tipping the SHIT outta them (Like probably $50 per hour just from MYSELF!)
I tip as follows:
Valet = $1 upon departure (when I dropoff, I only tip if I ask for a special service; such as keeping it in the shade, or close-by)
Bellman = $2 upon delivery of luggage (I have three suitcases)
Cocktails = $1 per round (there are 3-4 of us playing so 3-4 drinks = 1 round)
Restaraunts = 10% of bill. (All the food is comped, but it shows how much the food is pre-tax; 10% of that)
Housekeeping staff = $1 upon delivery (When we arrive in the room we always get decaf coffee brought up, as it is not in the room, only regular is)
I no longer play table games, so I cannot comment on how I tip dealers..although I was tipping the SHIT outta them (Like probably $50 per hour just from MYSELF!)
Gambling calls to me...like this ~> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Nap37mNSmQ
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:35:06 PM
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Quote: TIMSPEED
I no longer play table games, so I cannot comment on how I tip dealers..although I was tipping the SHIT outta them (Like probably $50 per hour just from MYSELF!)
Did you quit craps??!?
"So as the clock ticked and the day passed, opportunity met preparation, and luck happened." - Maurice Clarett
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:38:20 PM
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Quote: rdw4potusDid you quit craps??!?
For all intents and purposes I did...quit craps in Reno (except for the Shoot-To-Win machine, which doesn't beg for tips, LOL)
Gambling calls to me...like this ~> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Nap37mNSmQ
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:50:35 PM
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Quote: TIMSPEEDFor all intents and purposes I did...quit craps in Reno (except for the Shoot-To-Win machine, which doesn't beg for tips, LOL)
Why did you quit Craps? Seems like you were doing "well" based on your Trip Reports.
Craps is the most "Jekyll and Hyde" casino game ever invented!
May 22nd, 2012 at 2:56:42 PM
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Quote: TIMSPEED
Cocktails = $1 per round (there are 3-4 of us playing so 3-4 drinks = 1 round)
So 4 people order drinks and the wautress gets only $1...or am I reading this incorrectly?
Anything less than $1 per drink is cheap in my book
May 22nd, 2012 at 3:30:29 PM
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Quote: JohnzimboSo 4 people order drinks and the wautress gets only $1...or am I reading this incorrectly?
Anything less than $1 per drink is cheap in my book
I agree - this is inadequate - I tip a pink chip per drink ($2.50)
May 22nd, 2012 at 4:00:14 PM
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Quote: TIMSPEED
I tip as follows:
Valet = $1 upon departure (when I dropoff, I only tip if I ask for a special service; such as keeping it in the shade, or close-by)
Bellman = $2 upon delivery of luggage (I have three suitcases)
Cocktails = $1 per round (there are 3-4 of us playing so 3-4 drinks = 1 round)
Restaraunts = 10% of bill. (All the food is comped, but it shows how much the food is pre-tax; 10% of that)
Housekeeping staff = $1 upon delivery (When we arrive in the room we always get decaf coffee brought up, as it is not in the room, only regular is)
I have to say this, but you would be considered a pretty cheap tipper if you tipped this way in Vegas. While Reno is not as bad in tipping expectation, it still wouldn't cut it. Here are my suggestions about what is considered adequate.
Valet = $3-$5. Personally, I tip upon pick up.
Bellman = $2 per piece of luggage, $5 minimum.
Cocktails = $1 a drink.
Restaurants = 18% of the pre-tax pre-comp bill.
Housekeeping = Tip based on special requests. If you never ask for anything, then I think tipping should not be expected in Vegas. Housekeeping staff are usually part of the Culinary Union and pretty well paid with good benefits. Non-union properties like the Venetian and Stations keep up with what the union employees get.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
May 22nd, 2012 at 4:15:26 PM
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My last trip to vegas, stayed at Excalibur and left 2 bucks on table for tips 2 days in a row. The maids never picked up the money. Finally had to leave a note with the money. So I can certainly say they are honest. Wether to tip housekeeping or not is just up to the individual. I really didn't think they made much money, but didn't know they were part of a union. Then again I doubt they are retiring early.
May 22nd, 2012 at 5:39:44 PM
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I live in the Midwest, more specifically, about as far East in the Midwest as one can get and have it still be considered the Midwest. I suppose that some would consider it Western Appalachia, but we don't really have the dialect that you would expect from Appalachia. Some of the elder folks here, "Warsh," instead of, "Wash," but that's about as far as it goes.
In any event, the following is my tip scale:
Valet = I don't use valets.
Bellman = I've not stayed at a place with a bellman. I am a hotel manager, by trade, so I stay at any hotel in the franchise for $25/night, and none have had a bellman. I will say that I don't like people touching my stuff, so I'd probably hand the bellman $5.00 and tell him I'm handling my own baggage all the same.
Cocktails = $1.00/drink, unless the drink is comped, then I tip what the drink would have cost.
Drinks-Bar = $1.00/drink (at the end) or $5.00 (at the end), lesser of the two. I usually drink Godfathers, and those are simple to make. Other than that, I drink a Neat Gin, even easier.
Restaurants = $5.00 or 25%, greater of the two. I'm occasionally compelled to tip more for fantastic service, up to 40%.
Housekeeping = Again, I stay cheap being a hotel manager, so I usually tip $10.00 for adequate service and $15.00 for excellent service. I'm not picky, though, I can't stand picky people. Just about anything is adequate if it's not my hotel (where I demand better cleaning service.)
I also used to manage a hotel in Kansas City, MO, (different franchise than current hotel) and I am on great terms with that owner, so I stay free when I go to KC. I'll usually tip housekeeping $20.00/day regardless of room condition because I am staying free.
Full-Service Gas = We have one in my little town, suckers, (just kidding) so no pumping gas in 10 degree weather for me. I tip $1.00/pump in good weather and $2.00 if it is either too hot, too cold or raining.
In any event, the following is my tip scale:
Valet = I don't use valets.
Bellman = I've not stayed at a place with a bellman. I am a hotel manager, by trade, so I stay at any hotel in the franchise for $25/night, and none have had a bellman. I will say that I don't like people touching my stuff, so I'd probably hand the bellman $5.00 and tell him I'm handling my own baggage all the same.
Cocktails = $1.00/drink, unless the drink is comped, then I tip what the drink would have cost.
Drinks-Bar = $1.00/drink (at the end) or $5.00 (at the end), lesser of the two. I usually drink Godfathers, and those are simple to make. Other than that, I drink a Neat Gin, even easier.
Restaurants = $5.00 or 25%, greater of the two. I'm occasionally compelled to tip more for fantastic service, up to 40%.
Housekeeping = Again, I stay cheap being a hotel manager, so I usually tip $10.00 for adequate service and $15.00 for excellent service. I'm not picky, though, I can't stand picky people. Just about anything is adequate if it's not my hotel (where I demand better cleaning service.)
I also used to manage a hotel in Kansas City, MO, (different franchise than current hotel) and I am on great terms with that owner, so I stay free when I go to KC. I'll usually tip housekeeping $20.00/day regardless of room condition because I am staying free.
Full-Service Gas = We have one in my little town, suckers, (just kidding) so no pumping gas in 10 degree weather for me. I tip $1.00/pump in good weather and $2.00 if it is either too hot, too cold or raining.
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
May 22nd, 2012 at 6:32:48 PM
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If the service is good I tip housekeeping $10 per day minimum. If the service is bad I do not tip. I am not that picky but I do not believe poor service should be rewarded.
May 22nd, 2012 at 7:01:35 PM
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I tip housekeeping daily. $5 at nicer hotels/resorts, a couple bucks at lower star place.
Restaurants I tip 20% if paying via card, 15% if by cash.
Cabs I tip 15%
Valets, I tip $1 if there is a charge to valet the car, more if it is complimentary.
At a bar, I tip 15%. I don't think it should be necessary to tip a full dollar for a $3 beer, in the casino, $1 per comped drink.
Bell persons I tip $1 per bag.
Restaurants I tip 20% if paying via card, 15% if by cash.
Cabs I tip 15%
Valets, I tip $1 if there is a charge to valet the car, more if it is complimentary.
At a bar, I tip 15%. I don't think it should be necessary to tip a full dollar for a $3 beer, in the casino, $1 per comped drink.
Bell persons I tip $1 per bag.
A flute with no holes is not a flute, a donut with no holes is a danish
May 22nd, 2012 at 7:22:03 PM
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Yes, Reno is cheaper than Vegas...and the fact that I'm there 3/7d days of the week..
Yes, we play video poker and there are no waitresses at JANugget, only beverage servers, who are very happy to get $1 per tray of drinks they bring to us...
Yes, we play video poker and there are no waitresses at JANugget, only beverage servers, who are very happy to get $1 per tray of drinks they bring to us...
Gambling calls to me...like this ~> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Nap37mNSmQ
May 22nd, 2012 at 7:43:48 PM
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I wasn't even aware that you were expected to tip the bouncers at a night club if you were throwing a party there. That one still has me scratching my head.Quote: WizardStill, I wonder, when did it start to be expected to tip housekeeping? I dont think it was expected just 20 years ago.
Someday, joor goin' to see the name of Googie Gomez in lights and joor goin' to say to joorself, "Was that her?" and then joor goin' to answer to joorself, "That was her!" But you know somethin' mister? I was always her yuss nobody knows it! - Googie Gomez
May 22nd, 2012 at 7:45:57 PM
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In Vegas and everywhere else, I typically tip as follows:
Valet = $3 in and out I grease them coming in and I grease them going out. Believe me, i get taken care of, this is at the hotels, resturaunts anywhere where there is valet.
Bellman = $2 per piece of luggage, $5 minimum, same as the Wiz
Cocktails = $1 a drink again Same as the Wiz, but I usually will pound down many many beers in an evening, I mean so many like she probably easily makes $20 off of just me. But I will also tip that buck for a water. A drink is a drink right? And at a lot of casino's I dont have to ask anymore, they remember me and take care of me, waitresses usually know who tips and will take care of them IMO.
Restaurants = at least 20% usually more pre-comp bill.
Housekeeping = $5 a day, they dont mess with your shit and are happy to leave extra's on request. Plus a lot of the time it is a different girl everyday, so why should the lady working the last day get the benifit?
Im not a high roller either, but I will pay for service that I want.
Valet = $3 in and out I grease them coming in and I grease them going out. Believe me, i get taken care of, this is at the hotels, resturaunts anywhere where there is valet.
Bellman = $2 per piece of luggage, $5 minimum, same as the Wiz
Cocktails = $1 a drink again Same as the Wiz, but I usually will pound down many many beers in an evening, I mean so many like she probably easily makes $20 off of just me. But I will also tip that buck for a water. A drink is a drink right? And at a lot of casino's I dont have to ask anymore, they remember me and take care of me, waitresses usually know who tips and will take care of them IMO.
Restaurants = at least 20% usually more pre-comp bill.
Housekeeping = $5 a day, they dont mess with your shit and are happy to leave extra's on request. Plus a lot of the time it is a different girl everyday, so why should the lady working the last day get the benifit?
Im not a high roller either, but I will pay for service that I want.
May 22nd, 2012 at 8:00:42 PM
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I must admit that I never knew it was expected to tip housekeeping for most of my life. Perhaps it wasn't until recently. Then again, I never ask for anything extra. What are these special requests everyone else is making? If I asked for something extra to be delivered, like an extra bet, I tipped the person who delivered it.
Again, in Vegas housekeeping is a union job, so the person doing it should be making a good wage with good benefits. I'll try to find out what they are paid, but I'm pretty sure it is a very good wage for fairly menial labor.
Again, in Vegas housekeeping is a union job, so the person doing it should be making a good wage with good benefits. I'll try to find out what they are paid, but I'm pretty sure it is a very good wage for fairly menial labor.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
May 22nd, 2012 at 8:12:16 PM
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When I stayed at Sunset Station last weekend, there was a small envelope on the counter. The front said "your room is thoroughly and professionally cleaned by (forgotten)." I thought that was both pushy and clever at the same time.
"So as the clock ticked and the day passed, opportunity met preparation, and luck happened." - Maurice Clarett
May 22nd, 2012 at 8:30:36 PM
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Quote: rdw4potusWhen I stayed at Sunset Station last weekend, there was a small envelope on the counter. The front said "your room is thoroughly and professionally cleaned by (forgotten)." I thought that was both pushy and clever at the same time.
Yeah, I've seen variations of that at lots of hotels. While it does seem like a hustle, you can't blame them, because they're not supposed to take money just sitting out there that may or may not be intended as a tip.
By the way, when I stayed at the hotel in Saint George for the eclipse the smallest bill in my wallet was a $20. So I just left about 50 cents of loose change in my pocket. I still feel a little badly about it.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
May 22nd, 2012 at 9:12:17 PM
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Housekeeping Stuff:
Wizard-"Special Requests?"
There are any number of special requests that people make of housekeeping.
The most common, almost to such an extent as to not be considered, "Special Request," is that they leave extra towels.
Here are some less common ones, at least in the Economy hotels I have managed:
1.) Sheets Changed, Daily. (For people staying 4+ days, the general rule of thumb is every three days, unless stained)
2.) All Bedding Changed, Daily. (We usually wouldn't change a comforter for the same occupant more than weekly, unless stained or by request)
3.) Feed the Pets. (We accept pets here. You'd be surprised how often there are little notes asking the HK's to feed/water the pet if the bowl(s) is empty!
4.) Wash dishes. (Some people will ask the housekeepers to wash THEIR dishes. (I tell the housekeepers not to do so UNLESS they have tipped.)
5.) Extra Coffee/Condiment Packs.
I'd say that's about it for the somewhat common (but relatively uncommon) ones.
Wizard-"Expected to tip?"
I'd say that it probably depends upon the hotel chain. At the hotels I have managed, I would say tipping is about 1/5 guest rooms, usually people who are staying for awhile, and usually not more than $5.00. $5.00 would be pretty good, actually.
According to the HK's, the best tippers to ever stay at this hotel were here for a Jehovah Witness convention. I wouldn't have expected that. One of the HK's said she did not leave here with less than $50, cash, any day of that four-day event. She probably had an average of 12 rooms/day to clean.
RDW4POTUS-"Envelope"
I'm not convinced she was trying to be pushy. My guess is that she knew that she was off the next day or would have a different floor, so she was hoping you'd turn in the tip to the desk. (Either that, or she REALLY trusts her co-workers.)
Wizard-"Not supposed to take money."
I guess I can only respond to that by saying that's not the policy, here. The policy here is that any $5.00 or less that is left in plain view can be assumed to be a tip, and any amount over $5.00 must be reported to the front desk, whereupon the front desk will hold it in an envelope with the room number until the following day.
I don't know anything about the Saint George, but I wouldn't feel too badly. $0.50 is better than no tip at all, and I imagine that's exactly what she got from a few of her rooms.
Wizard-"Special Requests?"
There are any number of special requests that people make of housekeeping.
The most common, almost to such an extent as to not be considered, "Special Request," is that they leave extra towels.
Here are some less common ones, at least in the Economy hotels I have managed:
1.) Sheets Changed, Daily. (For people staying 4+ days, the general rule of thumb is every three days, unless stained)
2.) All Bedding Changed, Daily. (We usually wouldn't change a comforter for the same occupant more than weekly, unless stained or by request)
3.) Feed the Pets. (We accept pets here. You'd be surprised how often there are little notes asking the HK's to feed/water the pet if the bowl(s) is empty!
4.) Wash dishes. (Some people will ask the housekeepers to wash THEIR dishes. (I tell the housekeepers not to do so UNLESS they have tipped.)
5.) Extra Coffee/Condiment Packs.
I'd say that's about it for the somewhat common (but relatively uncommon) ones.
Wizard-"Expected to tip?"
I'd say that it probably depends upon the hotel chain. At the hotels I have managed, I would say tipping is about 1/5 guest rooms, usually people who are staying for awhile, and usually not more than $5.00. $5.00 would be pretty good, actually.
According to the HK's, the best tippers to ever stay at this hotel were here for a Jehovah Witness convention. I wouldn't have expected that. One of the HK's said she did not leave here with less than $50, cash, any day of that four-day event. She probably had an average of 12 rooms/day to clean.
RDW4POTUS-"Envelope"
I'm not convinced she was trying to be pushy. My guess is that she knew that she was off the next day or would have a different floor, so she was hoping you'd turn in the tip to the desk. (Either that, or she REALLY trusts her co-workers.)
Wizard-"Not supposed to take money."
I guess I can only respond to that by saying that's not the policy, here. The policy here is that any $5.00 or less that is left in plain view can be assumed to be a tip, and any amount over $5.00 must be reported to the front desk, whereupon the front desk will hold it in an envelope with the room number until the following day.
I don't know anything about the Saint George, but I wouldn't feel too badly. $0.50 is better than no tip at all, and I imagine that's exactly what she got from a few of her rooms.
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
May 22nd, 2012 at 9:20:01 PM
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Quote: Mission1463.) Feed the Pets. (We accept pets here. You'd be surprised how often there are little notes asking the HK's to feed/water the pet if the bowl(s) is empty!
I'm surprised at that. I never leave a pet without enough food and plenty of water.
Don't you get requests for extra toiletries?
BTW, when I leave a housekeeping tip, I always leave a note with it in order to avoid misunderstandings.
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
May 22nd, 2012 at 9:33:09 PM
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Quote: NareedI'm surprised at that. I never leave a pet without enough food and plenty of water.
Don't you get requests for extra toiletries?
BTW, when I leave a housekeeping tip, I always leave a note with it in order to avoid misunderstandings.
Well, if you leave it in a room, the only understanding your average housekeeper is going to have is, "I was the first one to see the money." If you really want to get it to the right person, you should call the desk and see if she works the following day (and if not, or if the desk won't tell you) take an envelope with her name on it down to the desk.
Yes, extra toiletries. I was kind of lumping that in with extra towels. It's basically the same thing, bathroom stuff. Very few people request extra of one without requesting extra of the other. It's usually if there are kids in the room.
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
May 22nd, 2012 at 10:45:59 PM
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I do not think that tipping a maid (now known as a housekeeper) is a recent development at all. Some tip promptly and some tip upon checkout but its not new at all. Hotel maids were routinely tipped in the fifties and sixties.
I leave cash, coins, chips and pocket debris in plain sight and have never had any problems. Its too much to be considered a tip. When I leave its a modest sum, usually atop the microwave or the mini-fridge with a note that simply reads: Housekeeping. Its obligatory. And in Vegas, even more so. I don't like the excessive tipping that goes on ... but bellmen, maids, bartenders and waitresses get tipped. Valet parkers get tipped modestly, I know others are more generous with them, I'm not.
I've seen some men lug their own multiple suitcases into a casino. Fairly expensive cars, young healthy men. Its not too common but you do see it happen. They may tip in night clubs or something but they don't tip the bellmen for some reason.
I leave cash, coins, chips and pocket debris in plain sight and have never had any problems. Its too much to be considered a tip. When I leave its a modest sum, usually atop the microwave or the mini-fridge with a note that simply reads: Housekeeping. Its obligatory. And in Vegas, even more so. I don't like the excessive tipping that goes on ... but bellmen, maids, bartenders and waitresses get tipped. Valet parkers get tipped modestly, I know others are more generous with them, I'm not.
I've seen some men lug their own multiple suitcases into a casino. Fairly expensive cars, young healthy men. Its not too common but you do see it happen. They may tip in night clubs or something but they don't tip the bellmen for some reason.
May 22nd, 2012 at 11:29:35 PM
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One of the other reasons that I have them turn in amounts sitting out over $5.00 is so that it gets reported to the desk how much was left in the open. We have many guys that are working in the area that think everything that goes missing (not limited to cash) is somebody's fault. I can't tell you how many times I've gotten, "Your housekeeper stole my cell phone charger!" Now, why, pray tell, would one of my housekeepers take a cell phone charger? It'd have to be a compatible charger, and one can assume, she'd have to be without one.
The hotel's not liable in any way, shape or form for anything left in the room, but it saves us from a headache sometimes to have cash turned in. I have had a few occasions (at the hotel in Kansas City, which is why I developed the policy) where some guest on one occasion came in with, "Your housekeeper stole $20!"
I would suggest that maybe she thought it was a tip, and the guy would say, "No, I had $300 sitting there!"
I'd reply, "So, you had $300 sitting there, and you're telling me that the housekeeper, who knows that neither she nor the hotel is liable for missing money unless you can physically prove she stole it, would take $20 as opposed to all $300. I think you may have miscounted, why are you leaving $300 out anyway?"
"So, this is my fault!?"
It usually wasn't that much, usually $50-$100, something in there.
Anyway, the only way to calm someone like that down is to give them $20.00, which I am not going to do. I'm not taking it off of the room, either. Don't leave your cash out and there will be no question.
I don't think any of these housekeepers have found that kind of money. Change stays in a room staying over, regardless. I think one of them found a $50 sitting on the microwave once, so she brought it down to the desk. The guy did not intend to tip $50, but he gave her $10 of it the following day because he knew that she could have just walked out with it and nobody could prove anything.
Personally, I think the easiest thing is not to leave cash in plain sight if it is not intended as a tip, but what can you do?
The hotel's not liable in any way, shape or form for anything left in the room, but it saves us from a headache sometimes to have cash turned in. I have had a few occasions (at the hotel in Kansas City, which is why I developed the policy) where some guest on one occasion came in with, "Your housekeeper stole $20!"
I would suggest that maybe she thought it was a tip, and the guy would say, "No, I had $300 sitting there!"
I'd reply, "So, you had $300 sitting there, and you're telling me that the housekeeper, who knows that neither she nor the hotel is liable for missing money unless you can physically prove she stole it, would take $20 as opposed to all $300. I think you may have miscounted, why are you leaving $300 out anyway?"
"So, this is my fault!?"
It usually wasn't that much, usually $50-$100, something in there.
Anyway, the only way to calm someone like that down is to give them $20.00, which I am not going to do. I'm not taking it off of the room, either. Don't leave your cash out and there will be no question.
I don't think any of these housekeepers have found that kind of money. Change stays in a room staying over, regardless. I think one of them found a $50 sitting on the microwave once, so she brought it down to the desk. The guy did not intend to tip $50, but he gave her $10 of it the following day because he knew that she could have just walked out with it and nobody could prove anything.
Personally, I think the easiest thing is not to leave cash in plain sight if it is not intended as a tip, but what can you do?
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
May 23rd, 2012 at 5:28:24 AM
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Aren't dealers and waitstaff and a lot of other tipped positions also unionized?Quote: WizardAgain, in Vegas housekeeping is a union job, so the person doing it should be making a good wage with good benefits. I'll try to find out what they are paid, but I'm pretty sure it is a very good wage for fairly menial labor.
The envelope is fairly common. However, more than once I've had envelopes where the space for their name was left blank or was an unreadable scribble. I deduct for that.
The only request I've ever made is, if I'm in the room multiple nights, I'll leave a note asking that the top sheets not be tucked in. How well that request is followed greatly affects the tip.
Also, I only leave a tip when I check out. I.E. Unless I left something behind by mistake, the only thing in the room that doesn't belong to the hotel is a few bucks on top of the dresser. The maid will know it's the tip.
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May 23rd, 2012 at 5:39:18 AM
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That's me. Well, not the expensive car part, but I lug my suitcases around. Not because I'm cheap (although I am), but because it's more of a p.i.t.a. to give it to the bellman and then wait for delivery.Quote: FleaStiffI've seen some men lug their own multiple suitcases into a casino. Fairly expensive cars, young healthy men. Its not too common but you do see it happen. They may tip in night clubs or something but they don't tip the bellmen for some reason.
I invented a few casino games. Info:
http://www.DaveMillerGaming.com/
Superstitions are silly, childish, irrational rituals, born out of fear of the unknown. But how much does it cost to knock on wood? 😁
May 23rd, 2012 at 5:48:53 AM
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Dealers: Yes, but only at about five or six casinos. (Most notably, Caesars. For some reason they are repped by the Transport Workers Union). All cocktail waitresses that work at union stores are part of the culinary union Local 226. (You can't be forced to join the union, but it would be in your best interests to do so). Bartenders have their own union, Local 165.Quote: DJTeddyBearAren't dealers and waitstaff and a lot of other tipped positions also unionized?
It's a common misconception that unionized workers are paid better. That is not often the case; they make the same as everybody else. The union benefits come from better hours, working conditions, layoff provisions, and health insurance benefits. I would be shocked if a housekeeper working under a union contract made a higher hourly wage than someone working in a non-union store. This would be interesting to find out: How about a labor and employment expert on your next radio show? (Or maybe not...)
"Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving-hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe." -Rig Veda 10.34.4
May 23rd, 2012 at 5:50:01 AM
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Yeah, that's why I tend to never tip for mere storage of my bags particularly when its the hotel's fault I can't get a room right away. The hotel is already benefiting by my going to the casino before I get my room, so why should I tip them for keeping the bags safe.Quote: DJTeddyBearNot because I'm cheap, but because it's more of a p.i.t.a. to give it to the bellman and then wait for delivery.
Maids rarely do anything special for me since I just want a room, a tv that I probably won't watch, towels and to be left alone. No turn down, no mints, no fuss. I do like coffee though.
Just as the casino has its unique "buzz" the entire town has a "greased hand policy" and its hard to ignore it.
May 23rd, 2012 at 6:01:08 AM
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Quote: Mission146Well, if you leave it in a room, the only understanding your average housekeeper is going to have is, "I was the first one to see the money." If you really want to get it to the right person, you should call the desk and see if she works the following day (and if not, or if the desk won't tell you) take an envelope with her name on it down to the desk.
Most times I don't even see the housekeeper, so I wouldn't even know who it was.
And I've had tips left in place. So I leave a note saying "For housekeeping. Thank you" along with the money.
Quote:Yes, extra toiletries. I was kind of lumping that in with extra towels. It's basically the same thing, bathroom stuff. Very few people request extra of one without requesting extra of the other. It's usually if there are kids in the room.
Any idea how many people request extras just to take them home? My mom used to do that way too much in the late 80s. She'd also raid housekeeping carts. At least she never stole towels...
Donald Trump is a fucking criminal
May 23rd, 2012 at 6:23:32 AM
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Quote: FleaStiffI've seen some men lug their own multiple suitcases into a casino.
So you've seen my father then.
Quote: DJTeddyBearAren't dealers and waitstaff and a lot of other tipped positions also unionized?
They are, but they are expected to be tipped well, so make minimum wage only, or a little more.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
May 23rd, 2012 at 9:40:34 AM
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Apparently I'm pretty cheap. I carry my own bags up to my room. Typically I leave $3/day for housekeeping.
Does anyone tip the guy that runs the taxi stand? Sometimes I give him $1 but that seems kinda of lame.
Does anyone tip the guy that runs the taxi stand? Sometimes I give him $1 but that seems kinda of lame.
