Confused about tipping towncar driver

[Bashful2]

I just booked Happy Limo for our upcoming trip. A $20 tip is added to the fare. Is it still customary to tip again? If so, how much and why?

 

[inkkognito]

You do not need to tip again if the gratuity is already added in (to confirm, I typically ask the driver something like, "Your tip is included, right? I just wanted to be sure!"). We use Happy Limo too, and on several occasions I have given an additional gratuity for outstanding service. If you feel that the driver has gone above and beyond in service, and has earned an additional gratuity, then it is appropriate to give it. We follow this same procedure on our Disney cruises, giving out the recommended gratuity but adding extra for crew members who go out of their way. But you don't have to feel obligated. It is totally up to you.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.castawayclub.com

 

[TZMOM]

Are you saying that you've already pre-paid the "services rendered" part for the driving, grocery stop, etc. as well as pre-paid the "tip"?? The driving part I can understand, but ummm, what's the incentive for driver to go "above & beyond" so to speak when he's already been paid for basically doing nada? Is it a huge group you're travelling with? I don't understand why you have to prepay a tip - a tip is well, a tip - supposed to be a bonus for doing a good job. I was going to try them our next trip, but if I have to pre-pay a tip, I'm just not cool w/that.

 

[Bashful2]

Thanks Inkkognito.

TZMOM - There will only be 3 of us on the trip. I don't like prepaid gratuities either, but since we would probably tip at least that much, it will make it easier. I don't really care if he goes above and beyond. I just want him to be on time, to get us where we are going and to be pleasant. If it's bad enough that I wouldn't want to tip, I'll be complaining to the company.

 

[inkkognito]

In all of our trips, we have never found the service to be lacking. All our drivers have been great, and our favorite is Kahn, who we've had multiple times. Conversing with him made the trip to Port Canaveral fly by. Personally, I prefer it when gratuities are included because it saves me from having to figure them out myself. Of course, I am the kind of person who is not at all shy about complaining if I do not feel that the service deserved the reward. If there is a problem, I know they would go out of their way to make it right. Word of mouth and satisfied customers are critical to a business's success, especially with the internet.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.castawayclub.com