The bar tab as a concept is not going away. However, the bar tab as an added "free" promotional part of a cruise is said to be going away. There was another thread on this.
Yes the only benefit of a bar tab is the extra money. If you do not have a bar tab or your tab runs out, it is just charged to your cabin.
The loot can be used to pay for excursions, but only once on the ship.
Most travel agents these days work from home. No storefront needed. However, we are not allowed to recommend any on here. I would suggest, when you get on the ship, ask others. Someone may be able to point you in the right direction.
Is it possible that the rules regarding taking home the alcohol from your Rockstar/Mega Rockstar cabins are different when sailing out of San Juan vs. Miami? Don't know if this is the case, but that is the only difference I can see.
What are the largest size tables in the MDR? We are on the Sun in October with a large group and are trying to figure how many tables we will need to be divided between.
Make sure you check the price of the standard interior. Upon occasion, it is cheaper or very closely priced to book the standard interior for 1 person vs. the solo interior.