Most travelers recommend bringing about $125 USD in singles for tipping during their stay. Others have suggested bringing $2 USD for tipping as a novelty.

General guidelines for an AI (All Inclusive)

Housekeepers: $2-3 USD per day
Waiters: $2 USD breakfast-lunch, $5 USD for dinner or for excellent service during other meals
Bartenders: $1-2 USD for drinks

General guidelines for an EP (European plan) hotel (not AI)

Housekeepers: $2-3 USD per day
Waiters: 10-15% of the bill, depending on service
Bartenders: 10-15% of the bill, depending on service

There has been a lot of discussion online regarding bringing gifts for staff in addition to tipping. The general consensus has been that if the gifts don´t take away from the cash tip amount, then they are fine, but that most staff prefer cash tips to gifts. The Riviera Maya differs from Cuba and the Dominican Republic in the general standard of living and the products available to local workers. With WalMart conveniently located in Playa del Carmen, local hotel staff have access to American products at a low price.