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Is tipping included in the bill. I've eaten at 2 restaurants and when I looked at the bill there's the tax of course and then there's 10% "servicios". I assume that's the tip right?

yes.

Here begins another long debate on tipping.

I had dinner with a Tica and he German husband at the restaurant in the Hotel Gran d'oro. For those who don't know about this place is is probably the nicest restaurant I've been to in San Jose.

I asked the Tica what her opinion was on tipping ans she said that the 10% is generally considered just about all the waiter/waitress needs and you can throw in a a little bit more if you are so compelled.

I sort of agree. There is 10 percent built into the bill but I usually leave a little more, especially change.
In some places a small additional tip is the norm if they serve a lot of tourists like the bar at the Sportsman's Lodge or the Blue Marlin for good service.

I usually give my taxi driver to the airport when I depart all my extra booze which I cannot carry on board and am afraid to pack because it will break.

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PacoLoco: "You pay for it one way or another."
Ace: "Rent everything, do not buy in Costa Rica"

Do whatever YOU are comfortable with, and ignore what anybody else tells you.

I typically tip another 5-10% if the service is "american standard", that is.. if the service is as good as you'd usually get in an american place, I tip a little more. I've never encountered service as good as an excellent american place, not even the White House.

What I count as "excellent" service is -

1) your drink never runs dry without you asking
2) the food comes out as soon as it's done
3) they inquire as to the quality of the food and correct any problem immediately
4) THEY BRING YOU THE CHECK WITHOUT PLEADING FOR IT

That last one is a personal pet peeve of mine.

If you ever find such a magical place please tell me where it is

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