What is the "Restaurant Bill Padding in Oranjestad" scam in Aruba?

Question

Accepted Answer

Some restaurants near the cruise pier in Oranjestad add automatic gratuity of 15–18%, then leave the tip line blank on the credit card slip, hoping tourists add another tip on top. Others add items to the bill for bread, water, or condiments that were never requested and not mentioned as paid. Review your bill line by line before paying and ask for clarification on any unfamiliar charge. If gratuity is already included, write "0" or "included" on the tip line. Asking whether bread or water costs extra at the start of the meal prevents surprise charges.

Restaurant Scams in Aruba

Restaurant Bill Padding in Oranjestad

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