Retired on the West Coast, we don’t get to Manhattan that often any more. However, whenever we’re on the sidewalks of New York, we make a pilgrimage to a genuine deli. Now that the Stage Deli is no more, it’s all the more important that we head for the venerable Carnegie at 854 7th Avenue.

For the past 80 years, this eatery named for the nearby music institution, offers a large menu of favorites, featuring all the traditional deli foods. We usually order a corned beef on rye sandwich. It’s so large and stuffed with tasty slices that we always share one.

It’s washed down with Dr. Brown’s Root Beer, and topped off with delicious strawberry cheese cake. On our last visit, we paid about $35 for the nostalgic experience for two.

Note of caution: If you intend to nosh at the Carnegie Deli, try to get there very early or very late in the day. It’s nearly always jam-packed with locals and tourists, and the noise and crowding are almost toxic. For menu, prices, hours and other info, go to carnegiedeli.com

Q: My spouse and I plan a cruise to celebrate my retirement, and we’re set on schedule, destination and other plans. However, we’re not sure about tipping. What’s the usual practice on cruises? JRB, Fresno CA

A: The simplest way to learn about tipping is to check with your travel agent and/or cruise line before you sail. Often, you can simply sign up to include a percentage added to your fare for all tips aboard. That way you don’t have to dig for tip money frequently throughout the cruise.

In other situations when services are provided, just apply the usual practice of giving from 10 to 20 percent for each. This applies to ship employees, as well as cabbies, tour bus drivers and other servers while on port visits.

Starting Sunday, June 15, the airline offers its new Mint business class service on flights between New York's JFK Airport and Los Angeles. The round-trip cost starts from about $1,200.

Mint service on the seven daily flights to those cross-country destination includes flat beds, private suites, dual power outlets with USB ports, amenity kits and an upscale dining menu featuring tapas.

For schedules, prices and other info, go to www.jetblue.com