Suggestions of items for tipping/bartering??

With exception of $$$, what items are good for tipping or bartering. I heard perfume, cosmetics, etc.??

That's in Cuba not the DR. The bar people here are the same as back home. In most restaurants and some bars a 10% gratuity is added to your bill. However, this is distributed among all the staff. So the person who served you might wind up with a few pennies. If you received good service from your bartender or waiter, give him a few $$$ especially if it was not included in your bill. As far as the other stuff, perfume etc. the money is more important to feed their families. If they want perfume, they can buy it at the store.

give a dollar a time when no staff is looking or when you pay the bill on your table
when you are in a all-inclusive give them anyway one dollar you will serviced mayby a little quicker next time they are allway's verry friendly anyway.
soo when you are going ask your bank for lot of one dollar piece
its eysier too give one dollar then big bugs
roomgirl, bartender beachboy and soo on
this is allso for the airport suitcase carerier(?) let them carry it because its hot.
your stay will by great enyou tje stay in DR