Hi Maryann,
Thanks for your question. First off, I am not sure if you have accessed the
2010 Deluxe Dining Plan Brochure yet (see attached pdf link), if not, then you should as it will give you a wealth of information from what the plan is all about to where to eat!
Gratuities depend on where you are dining, any "extras" you may be ordering and how many are in your party size. An 18% gratuity charge is automatically added to your bill for table sizes of 6 or more guests. If you are less than 6 people, then you would be required to leave a gratuity (18% is recommended based on good service) unless you are dining at a location which includes your gratuities which brings me to the attached link above. If you view the 2010 Deluxe Dining Plan Brochure above, you will notice at the top of page 4 a whole strip of little different colored boxes with pictures or letters inside of them and a brief description, the purple box with a "G" in it will be listed next to the restaurant choices that will have
gratuities included in your meal plan. There are some "extra" items that may have an 18% gratuity automatically added to your bill as well, one of these items may include alcoholic beverages. If you are in doubt when you get your bill, just ask your server and they will be happy to help you. You may charge anything extra (above what is included with your meal credit) onto your room (if you have room charging privileges) or you may pay separately for those items with cash, credit card, etc.... I hope this helps!
Best wishes,
Brigitta