I booked on the phone yesterday, and was also told that the total charged to my card did include taxes but not gratuity.I booked yesterday and it connected straight to MDE. I still have not received an email confirmation. The agent yesterday specifically told me that the payment included taxes but NOT gratuity. Interesting.

… many have contributed their experience. I have been trying to keep the first few posts updated with info as it gets reported throughout the thread to help any new readers or for use as a starting point next year. If anyone sees anything that they think should be added as helpful info, just let me know. 