this is my first bb & am stil trying to figure it out. if i use the BB maps and get turn by turn directions, do you think there would be additional charges from my cel provider even if i have an unli data plan?

Should be no additional charge if unlimited plan

I have tried a few BB GPS programs and like the BB maps from Rim. quick and easy to use.

Agreed, I've used google maps but that has some bad battery drain (or at least use to) and as little as I use GPS/maps BB Maps is good for me.