Brilliance Baltic cruise - who cruised recently?

Hi...we are preparing to do the Baltic cruise in 2 weeks on the Brilliance and have a few questions for cruisers who just completed the trip.

What exactly is the dining dress code now? We have been reading conflicting reports and would like to hear from a recent cruiser. Are there 3 dress-up (formal) nights? Can you pretty much go casual other nights, nice top and pants for women or polo shirt, dress pants for men? Are women capris allowed in dining room?

And what are your experiences with cash on land? Did you exchange USDs on ship or just use ATMS when in the country to get cash. I know just about every purchase a CC can be used. We have 2, both no international fees, one chip & signature and one chip and pin but we are just concerned we might find some small vender who does not take CC. We thought the easiest way would be to get about $20 in local currency or euros on the ship. Are the exchange rates really that high?

We often leave extra tips for exceptional service for crew on ship. Would USDs be okay?

And the adult pool...I read that sometimes it is opened to everyone? Must you get up the crack of dawn to get a chair before the chair hogs put towels on chairs and don't show up for hours later?

Thank you so much for answering my questions!!! This is our first time to the Baltic and we are very excited about this trip!!