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I used the AT&T cruise plan on the Jewel. Purchased the $60 for text and talk time. My text would not go through and when I called AT&T they said that since I had an iphone I would need to turn off the imessage and anyone I would text would have to turn off their imessage. since my family members all had iphones I chose not to text. I did use phone to talk to my family members. When I returned home, called AT&T and was told there were no extra phone charges. I complained about not using the text and they gave me a $30 credit. All good.

I just returned Saturday from the Jewel and had a wonderful time. This was my first time with RCI and it will not be my last. The ship is beautiful, love the glass. There was a wonderful band called Extra and the lead singer, Chris, had a great voice. The stateroom was immaculate, Gerald King was the stateroom attendant and he was always available to please. I had the Ultimate Drink Package and never had a problem with bartenders or servers. Drinks were readily available. Loved the MDR. Our waiters were Brazillio and Milan and they were so much fun. I really don't understand the negative comments, makes me wonder if I was on the same ship. Had one charge on the bill for a drink and wondered if I should forget it since we were going to disembark but when I went to customer service I was waited on immediately and charge removed within 5 minutes. Have a wonderful time, I am green with envy.

What is the typical amount to tip an tour guide for excursions 3-5 hours long?

Thanks for your answers.

I have purchased the ultimate drinking package a couple weeks ago. When I printed out my sea pass, I do not see anything about it. Will they know when I board and print it on another sea pass?

I called AAA and they said they stopped the traveler's checks because most businesses won't cash them due to ID theft. My bank does have them and said the company (I think it is American Express) charges 1% fee. I'm just not feeling comfortable taking a lot of cash for security reasons. We'll be in San Juan for 3 days prior to the cruise and was wondering if I needed to keep the cash on me whenever I was out of my room. Traveler's checks seem to be the answer if RC will cash them for me. Thanks everyone for your input. I really love Cruise Critic and all of the hints and suggestions.

Has anyone tried to cash travelers checks on Royal Caribbean? I am going on the Jewel and have read post that said the ATM's are sometimes not working. I called Royal Caribbean and they said they do cash them but the website said only in casino which makes me think there is a charge. Any info? I don't want to carry all my funds in cash for security reasons.

I will be going on the Jewel, Feb 8 cruise on Southern Caribbean. I have scheduled the Flavors of San Juan for Feb 7th. Any comments on this tour?

Thanks for your input.

Shutterbug, how would I turn off the data on my iphone so that I don't end up paying for it and does it cost the people in the States to text me? Thanks

I am thinking of adding the plan to my wireless while on the Jewel next month. I would be interested in hearing from anyone who purchased the plan and get your opinion of how it works. Did you also use it while off the ship? Thanks for your input.

Thanks for sharing. Loved the photos, IV2.

Which do you prefer and why?

I just tried to order the ultimate pkg online but the terms and conditions said all members in cabin over 21 must purchase.

I love cruise critic and want to thank all of you for the good advice you've given to me.

Next month I am going on the Jewel for the So Caribbean trip. I'm looking for advice on the best beaches to enjoy. I will be touring:

San Juan, Puerto Rico; Tortola, St. Maarten; St. Kitts; Dominica; Barbados. I would like to be able to go somewhere I can rent a chair, umbrella and enjoy going into the water. Would a formal excursion with Jewel be best or private excursion. Maybe it's better to just take a taxi somewhere. I really am interested in your opinion. Thanks, Cruise Critic members.

Thanks for sharing. The underwater photos were beautiful.

I will be going on the Jewel in February. Can you give me suggestion on the best tour to see whales?

I've been reading information on the boards for the new package that Royal Caribbean is offering. It looks like the cost for a 7 day cruise is $65 per day. My question is, does that include tax and tip or is that in addition to the $65.

Is $12 per glass of wine and frozen mixed drinks normal or will you have to pay surcharges also.

Residence Inn by Marriot in Long Beach for $50.