Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Most restaurants feature nightly specials as well as early-bird deals and
low, low prices for twin-lobster dinners used as loss leaders.
The drinking age in Maine is 21.
What About Tipping?
Ask about tipping in Down East Maine and some folks will think you are
talking about the process of cutting spruce and fir brush for Christmas
wreaths each November. For most folks in the tourist industry though,
tips from patrons comprise an important part of their wages.
Restaurant servers are paid sub-minimum wage with the expectation
they will make up the balance with gratuities. Servers in many establish-
ments also share tips with table-clearers, bartenders and hosts.
It has also become the custom to tip chambermaids at hotels and inns.
Guides on packaged tours are often rewarded with a gratuity.
The standard restaurant tip is 15%. In the case of exceptional service a
higher amount is encouraged. At motels and inns, the traditional amount
is $2 per day. Many establishments provide envelopes for tipping the
maid. On bus and similar guided tours the usual gratuity for the guide is
$1 per person.
While tips are not always expected, those on individual guided tours are
encouraged to tip whatever amount they feel appropriate.
Visitors on package tours should consult their trip leaders before tipping
(often, gratuities are included in the price).
Special Needs
M
ore and more communities and businesses in Maine are moving
ahead with a barrier-free approach to assist visitors with physical
disabilities. Check with specific chambers of commerce for details. Most
brochures note handicapped accessibility, and each year more and more
outdoor activities are opening up for people with disabilities.
