Money and Tips

Will I have any problem in exchanging my money or paying with dollars?
You can buy and sell foreign currency (mainly dollars and euros) at the bank and money exchange offices of Tuxla Gutierrez, the capital of the State of Chiapas, with no problem. The exchange rates are free; therefore, they may vary a few points from one day to another. It is not recommendable to sell dollars or euros in the black market; although the rates are higher than those at the formal businesses, you take the risk of getting counterfeits.
It is possible to pay with dollars in the main commercial establishments of Tuxla Gutierrez. Always carry cash in local currency when leaving the city, because it is the only accepted currency in rural areas.

Will my credit cards be accepted?
Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted with no inconvenience whatsoever at the main commercial establishments (shops, gas stations, restaurants and hotels, amongst others) in Tuxla Gutierrez.
However, always carry cash in local currency, especially if you are going on excursions to rural areas, where the use of credit cards is not that spread.

Is it recommendable to carry traveller checks?
Yes, it is a practical, safe and easy way of getting cash, because they can be cashed-in with no problem at the bank offices of the city. It is recommendable to have the checks issued by prestigious and well known firms, and for rather large sums of money.

How much should I tip?
It is customary to leave 10 percent of the total bill, without taking into account the Tax to the Aggregated Value (IVA), at restaurants and bars; bellboys are tipped 4 pesos per item of luggage, and more if they perform another service; cleaning personnel at the hotels get 3 pesos; and although it is not mandatory, you can tip the same amount to taxi drivers.