I don't have a lot of experience tipping at the resorts. But certainly, I've seen that tipping at resorts does result in better service. Giving the bartender a good tip might get you stronger drinks, better booze, prompt service, and offers to make more complicated drinks like mojitos and caipirinhas. Tipping housekeeping might result in a well-stocked mini-bar and prompt attention to special requests.
You may also want to tip the bellhop, and restaurant and drink servers. I'd say $1-5 per service is appropriate. If you think you'll be using the services of a specific person, say a bartender, quite a bit, then a nice tip ($5-20) when you first get there will get their attention and ensure good service the rest of the week.
We tip tour guides 10-15%.
You don't need to tip cab drivers. It's included in the cost of the trip. However, if you have a lot of luggage, you might want to tip a little for that. Most of my cab rides cost $18 pesos and I just round off to $20 pesos.
Tipping in US dollars is okay. It means a trip to the currency exchange and they lose a little in the transaction, but most others will also be tipping in USD. Recently, when the US dollar lost value, they weren't so crazy about USD, but it's doing better now.
Hope that helps a little. Will be interesting to get other opinions. Have a great trip!
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