Want to know some of the best places to eat in the next port you are visiting?  Need to know where the closest Internet Cafe is? Ask a crew member - they can tell you many of the things you want to know about your next port.  While crew like to play tourist just like the rest of us, they often don't have the time or inclination to tour at each and every port.  From my conversations with crew over the years, if they haven't joined a tour of some sort, they tend to do several things in port:

1. Look for a phone or Internet Cafe to call home
2. Take the crew shuttle to a local Walmart or other superstore
3. Walk to local shops or attractions
   
4. Find a restaurant/pub to relax in

And there is the key - crew have been to these ports and know their way around.  I have had great Chinese restaurants recommended to me in several Alaskan ports and now know the best Filipino eatery in Acapulco.  They can also tell you where to buy supplies to take back on ship and what attractions are within easy walking distance. 

Obviously each port is different, but if you want to be strategic with your time on shore, ask your stateroom attendant or bartender for their advice about your next port - they may just be able to point you in an interesting direction.