Hello fellow TAers. I%26#39;m coming to Vegas for a conference June 8-11th. Traveling solo and thought a meet %26amp; greet would be a good way to start the trip. I%26#39;m staying at Encore. Very flexible on the meeting location - seen Margaritaville mentioned as a location for other M%26amp;Gs. If you%26#39;re interested, please post response and we can collectively work out date/time/location.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Finally an offer!
Going out to Las Vegas at the end of July, and had an extra night to stay. I posted and asked which was better, Red Rock or GVR. Got an offer in the mail today for Red Rock 39.00 for a Saturday night! (of course there are still those pesky resort fees!)
Decision made Red Rock it is! Thanks everyone for your replies to my original post.
Finally an offer!
Good for you!!!! We like Red Rock Casino but haven%26#39;t yet stayed there, so I hope you post a trip review since it%26#39;s definately on my hotel list for future stays :)
On my own for two days at Luxor-what to do?
I have two days on my own while daughter is at conference from 8 to 5. Besides the pool,(not a big gambling fan either), anyone have ideas? Is it safe to be on my own? First time here. Thanks for the help.
On my own for two days at Luxor-what to do?
You will be completely safe. So many people. You can walk over to the NYNY, see the lions at MGM, walk over to Manadalay Bay. Go see Excalibur casino next door. Even take the duece, it%26#39;s $7 for a 24 hr pass. Must have exact change. Check out the Bellagio fountains, the Venetian is gorgous inside, so is the Paris. Walk around the Mall at Planet Hollywood. It%26#39;s ceilings are so beautiful with shopping too. If you like M%26amp;Ms, they have the M%26amp;M Factory World. Just to name a few.
On my own for two days at Luxor-what to do?
Bellagio has a few things inside worth seeing, too. The conservatory has beautiful flowers and seasonal displays, the lobby has a Chihuly glass ceiling, and the chocolate shop (just around the corner from the conservatory) has the world%26#39;s largest chocolate fountain (think waterfall, not spray-up-in-the-air).
Thanks so much - I now have some plans to make. I knew I could count on TA
I know my son is looking forward to that fountain. He%26#39;d probably want to jump in it. lol
The fountain is behind glass... they say it%26#39;s to keep the chocolate heated enough to flow, but I%26#39;m sure keeping people out of it was a concern too!
Luxor is on the strip, south strip but still the strip. If you have 8 hours to kill, there%26#39;s other casino hotels surrounding Luxor.
If you don%26#39;t want to walk up and down the strip and stay close to Luxor, you can just explore Luxor itself. Lots of shops, check out the bikes, play some slots. You can walk over to MBay and go shopping in MPlace. Check out MBay and it%26#39;s casino. Do the same at Excalibur which is on the other side of Luxor. NYNY, Monte Carlo and MGM are also very close to Luxor.
Is it safe? As long as you stay in the area of the casinos, you%26#39;ll only be with a couple other thousand people, maybe more! I wouldn%26#39;t go off the beaten path if you%26#39;re unsure of the area. Stick to the major pathways within the casinos or walkways to get to other casinos and you%26#39;ll be ok.
Oh my, do I envy you! I had so much fun by myself a couple of months ago when my husband was at a conference. We stayed at Paris. Although we had a car, I wanted to embrace Vegas so I hopped on the city bus. Not the touristy Deuce. I took it to see the Liberace museum, not a fan but thoroughly enjoyed it. Very interesting seeing all of his beautiful costumes and pianos. Most of the hotels also have Liberace buses that take you there free. I had also made advanced reservations to see the neon graveyard, not sure it is still open due to renovations. I took the bus downtown Vegas (Freemont) and walked all the way back to the Strip. It is about a 5 mile walk but with camera in hand, got some great pictures and saw kind of an ';off the beaten path'; side of Vegas. I never felt unsafe. Some great websites you should see is A2Z Las Vegas visitors guide and also see Best of Vegas lists and Las Vegas Advisor. There is so much to see and do. There is a wealth of information out there and the more information you arm yourself with the more fun you will have. We are going back in June. Can hardly wait.
I%26#39;d pick up a good book or a few magazines and go to the Qua Spa at Caesar%26#39;s Palace and relax.
http://www.harrahs.com/qua/
I almost always go solo- by choice- and I love it! Do what everyone else does. I have been on the strip, downtown and off strip all hours of the night and day and nothing bad has ever happened to me.
What to do?- Do anything you want to do! The fact that you are alone shouldn%26#39;t affect your trip at all. Go to shows, eat at great restaurants, see the attractions, go shopping, go to the spas! The list is endless!
http://www.vegas.com/attractions
lasvegasadvisor.com/…
Have fun and make new temporary friends. It is easy to do since everyone there is a tourist and it is easy to start a conversation!
Do you ever ask for a Free Upgrade at Check in?
We%26#39;re staying at the Luxor in July and checking in late on a Sunday night. What are my chances of getting a free upgrade to a nicer room? We are booked in a Deluxe Pyramid room right now for 3 nights.
Do you ever ask for a Free Upgrade at Check in?
';What are my chances of getting a free upgrade to a nicer room? ';
50%. You will either get an upgrade, or you won%26#39;t. :)
Seriously, no one can answer that. The best way to get a better room is to reserve it and pay for it. You can always ask nicely for one, and it helps to know specifically what you%26#39;re asking for, as opposed to ';may I have an upgrade?';.
Be prepared to receive an offer to pay for an upgrade rather than get it for free.
Do you ever ask for a Free Upgrade at Check in?
It all depends on what check in clerk you end up with. You might want to try the ';sandwich';. That is your credit card on top a 20.$ bill in the centre and your picture ID on the bottom. Then kindly ask if there are any complimentary upgrades available. If the Hotel is not a capacity your chances should be fairly good. It does not hurt to tell the clerk that you are celebrating a special occasion, ie. birthday etc. GOOD LUCK
No, I usually do not ask for an upgrade - I reserve the room I want. I frequent a place where I sleep on the ground in a lean-to and a mattress that would every one of us would throw away.
When I can request a specific room that has the creature comforts I desire I reserve it.
Many people do request an upgarde - the front desk personnel are used to it.
No one knows your chances - too many variables.
Ask nicely.
62.79% Chance
http://www.frontdesktip.com/
That site is hysterical...first, it only applies to those who bother to post, so ';62.7%'; isn%26#39;t exactly scientific.
Then, seeing a post like this just makes me crack up, between the incorrect spelling and the solicitation of a bribe by the clerk at the desk...lol.
I%26#39;m sorry that ';old guy'; wasn%26#39;t able to get them an upgrade to a ';suit';, but at least they weren%26#39;t herded into anything. :)
';My boyfriend and me went to spend a weekend and decided to stay hear. We had herd about the 20 dollar tip and decided to try it. When we arrived we first got and old guy he was around 50 and my boyfriend tried it he looked around but said he couldn%26#39;t help us and gave us our money back. When we went up to our room it was a mess!! So we went back down and this time we got a younger guy, my boyfriend decided to try it again and they guy looked around on the computer and said for an extra 20 he could get us the spa suit!!';
Bridge, I couldn%26#39;t picture you older than you have a child older than 50. You seem so active, which is a very good thing. Good for you. hope your children are doing good. Vegas keeps you young at heart. gotta love Vegas.
I would think that your chances would be pretty good considering you are arriving on a Sunday in July.
Just because someone has a kid over 50, it does not mean they are necessarily at an age one might think. When my brother turns 50, my mother will be 66. When my oldest niece turns 50, my sister-in-law will only be 65. :)
That is funny that someone thought the 50 year old was an old guy!
You really want it? Pay for it. Pretty simple rally.
MGM Comp question?
I receive free room offers every month (2-4 free rooms per month)from the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS. The Beau is part of the MGM players club family. I am planning on going Vegas for my bachelor party in August, as I have never been. Would it be worth my time to call some of the MGM properties to see if I am eligible for any free rooms at their properties?
MGM Comp question?
I don%26#39;t think they combine points. I gamble at the Borgata in Atlantic City and when I called for a free room I was told my gambling didn%26#39;t justify a free room. I then realized my play there was not counted toward a LV room. A few days later I coincidentally received 3 comped nights at MGM. You can always call, you have nothing to lose.
MGM Comp question?
Aumsents,
I play at MGM/Foxwoods in Ct.
As Tango said, they don%26#39;t combine player points.
If you have enough points from the Beau Rivage, you might be allowed to use your player points to buy a gift certificate at Beau Rivage for MGM Las Vegas.
Prior to my Feb. visit to MGM Las Vegas I was able to purchase a gift certificate with my points at the MGM/Foxwoods..... Of course they charged me a premium. The charge was 225 (?) points for a $150.00 gift certificate which can be used in Las Vegas.
Unfortunately, when I returned home I found I could not use the remaining dollars from my gift certificate at the MGM/Foxwoods.....Only to be used in MGM Las Vegas.
Hope this helps.
heading to vegas bellagio
hey everyone..
i%26#39;m heading to vegas for a stag party june 4-7 staying at the bellagio.. group of guys from toronto 5 total anyone else heading down at the same time?
also how is the bellagio?
is it a good hotel?
heading to vegas bellagio
Not sure of your ages, but Bellagio isn%26#39;t considered a party atmosphere. It%26#39;s one of the top hotels on the strip, and is more classy and elegant.
But you can walk anywhere close and party hardy!!!!
heading to vegas bellagio
ya we are late 20%26#39;s and early 30%26#39;s so we want quality at the hotel and will find the party elsewhere like you mentioned..
what r the good party hotels?
Good party hotels are the Palms, Hard Rock, TI, Planet Hollywood and MGM.
I%26#39;m mid-20s and when I stayed at Bellagio in February, I noticed more people my age. The Bank is a great place at the Bellagio. Hit Pure at Caesars to see the PCDL.
I%26#39;ve also heard that the new pleasure pit dealers at Planet Hollywood are great.
bump
Everybody pretty much got the party hotel question right. Bellagio is one of the top Vegas hotels, but outside of the Bank nightclub it doesn%26#39;t lend itself as a good time destination for twentysomethings. Planet Hollywood, Palms, Hard Rock,Venetian Ti and even the legendary Caesars Palace may be good for that.
thanks for your input everybody.. i mean i guess you cant go wrong with picking one of the top hotels the group i%26#39;m going with will make the party plus i have a couple friends that live in vegas to help us out with the party scence..
thanks for the responses keep them coming guys.. i appretiate every one
Here is how I%26#39;ll put the Bellagio. It%26#39;s a fabulous hotel and only a short walk away from the party atmosphere that a Stag party warrants. And when you are sick and tired of the ';whoooooo girls'; and just want to relax with a drink, you%26#39;ll be able to escape back to the Bellagio for a little sophistication.
Just don%26#39;t keep your old neighbors (like me!) up all night with your partying in the next room. We oldies choose nice quiet Bellagio for a reason.
MGM - Tower or West Wing
We will be staying at MGM over Easter, the previous two times we stayed in the Grand Tower section. This time, I thought I would change it up and try the West Wing rooms, however, by reading some of the posts here I might of made a mistake.
Are the West Wings rooms dumpy???
Thanks for your advise
MGM - Tower or West Wing
Not dumpy at all. It%26#39;s just that they are about 100sf smaller, and a wall divides the bathroom and bedroom, instead of a seperate room. And they practically have no window view.
BUT, they have all been remodeled.
They%26#39;re ';cozy';. =)
MGM - Tower or West Wing
Well, the West Wing rooms are smaller than the average bear..i mean, room, and despite the makeover with new beds and gadgets, it is actually the oldest rooms in MGM, dating back to the Marina days. I would stick to Grand Tower or spring for a suite.
Low covered it pretty well. The ';West Wing'; rooms are the last vestige of the former Marina Hotel which was built in the 1970s. When MGM Grand was built they basically just swallowed the Marina and left its rooms and hallways intact. Since then of course the rooms have been totally remodeled, but underneath the decor and furnishings they are the same small Marina rooms. People seem to either love them or hate them, but most of us think it%26#39;s ridiculous that MGM charges extra for them.
Thank you all so far,
My parents are getting their room ';on the house';
and I am only paying $49/nite
Maybe I%26#39;ll ask if a suite is available at check in.
Our ';view'; from the Tower last year was of the roof top!!!
A little odd that the bathroom is not a separate room
My suggestion is get a Grand Tower room, or upgrade to Bungalow or Spa suite at checkin.
MGM considers the West Wing an upgrade because it%26#39;s been renovated. If you and your parents want a view, get the Grand Tower.
I%26#39;ve had the roof view, too, lol. Even in a Hollywood Suite. No biggie for me, but ask for the highest room possible for better views. (Also ask for stripview)
Spa suites and others can be way down a long hallway, so if your parents have any mobility problems, make sure the checkin person knows this.
Enjoy your stay at the green monster!
Rental cars and child seats
We have a 6 years old child.Do we have to rent a booster seat to her???Any promo for rental cars to may ???Thank you for any advice.
Rental cars and child seats
Why not just bring the one that fits her well from home with you? You can check it and it does NOT count as part of your checked baggage allowance and therefore you are NOT charged a fee.
Rental cars and child seats
Agree bring your own. When my kids were younger their booster seats traveled the world. The law here is the child need to be 6 and 60 lbs to sit without it. The rental fee will be $50.
Beer - 777, Sin City, Ellis Island
I%26#39;m planning to check out some of the local brews during my next trip. Recommendations? I tried Sin City%26#39;s Amber on my last trip - it was good.
I%26#39;m thinking either 777 at Main St. Station or Ellis Island, and hitting Sin City in the Flamingo.
So, who has the best beer? Any others close to the strip that I%26#39;m missing?
Beer - 777, Sin City, Ellis Island
I%26#39;m a big fan of the Ellis Island beers ... Sin City seemed very mediocre the two times I%26#39;ve tried it.
Beer - 777, Sin City, Ellis Island
Ellis is good (and you can use the 4 free drink coupon in the American Casino Guide if it%26#39;s still in there for 2009...haven%26#39;t bought our book yet)
We really like the atmosphere and food both places, but do go to Main Street and visit the 777 if you are downtown.
I am planning a downtown trip - thinking maybe the first night, since I won%26#39;t have other conference activities to distract me. Plan to start with a sampler and some food - then stick to whatever one I liked the best.
If you%26#39;re going Downtown, make sure to go check out the beers over at the Chicago Brew Co at the 4 Queens. I thought those were very tasty as well.
S;-)
Obviously in Vegas your choices are very limited. My favorite is Triple 7.
I am not 100% on my memory but THINK we had a great Reuben Sandwich at the 777 last time we were there.
Tai food?
Is Lotus of Siam still the best? Any place else as good?
Tai food?
Yes. No.
Tai food?
I think Lotus of Siam is still the best. I have eaten at Thai Spice on Flamingo. It isn%26#39;t as good but it is acceptable.
I never thought it was the best, and some other great ones are Komol and Original Thai BBQ.
Probably! But saying that wouldn%26#39;t be fair as I haven%26#39;t been to some of the other famous Thai restaurants that many people have been raving about, and also I%26#39;ve haven%26#39;t eaten at every Thai restaurant in the country.
We lived in Bangkok for 5 years and just loved the food. We found a place called Kung Fu Thai %26amp; Chinese Restaurant,(kungfuplaza.com). Everytime we visit Vegas we always order room delivery at least 3 times. This food is the closest to being there....
$ 2.00 Crap and Blackjack tables
Will be in vegas April 19 thru the 23rd. Does anynone know if there are any $2.00 Craps or Blackjack tables in Vegas? Used to be able go downdown, but haven%26#39;t been there in 6 years.
$ 2.00 Crap and Blackjack tables
I don%26#39;t know about craps but I believe that $3 is the lowest blackjack minimum you%26#39;ll find in any casino in and around Vegas these days.
$ 2.00 Crap and Blackjack tables
Casino Royale has 3 and 5 dollar craps......
El Cortez usually has a 3 and 5 dollar table also.
Binions.......3 and 5 dollars. Craps....
I%26#39;m not sure about BJ.....I know that El Cortez and Vegas Club have 5 dollar BJ....
I was in Vegas at the end of January and saw all of these. My husband and I usually visit during the week when it is not so busy.....
HTH Lea
$3 dollar blackjack at the Fitzgerald, probably availlable at El Cortez too, and I think I heard that there is also low limit blackjack at the Gold Spike.
I%26#39;m pretty sure I saw some large signs advertising now $2 tables on Freemont Street somewhere when I was there a couple of weeks ago - I did mean to check it out, but got distracted ...
Saw one $3.00 craps table at Casino Royale but it was packed. Didn%26#39;t see any $3.00 bJ on the strip. Someone mentioned O%26#39;Sheas.
We are going to Vegas 4-21 to 4-30 and have been looking at the different casinos for promotions. On the Fitz web site they advertise $ 2.00 Black Jack all day every day.
Good luck and enjoy,
Kevin
$5 craps at the Orleans
Mrs. G
i%26#39;m not a big gambler so just wondering what is a normal minimum table at say the wynn, venetian etc?
Ellis Island has a $1 table on weekdays but the rules are terrible and it should be avoided.
There is no ';normal minimum';. Table minimums change based on time of day, day of week, and how busy things are. On the Strip you can usually find $5 tables in the morning, which may rise to $10 in the afternoon and $15 in the evening. Higher-end properties may start at $10 or $15 in the morning and be at $25 by evening. And there are always higher-limit tables available for those who prefer not to play with the riff-raff :)
Iwas downtown 3/4-3/9. Fitzgerald%26#39;s had $2 BJ but it paid even money on a BJ. Most casinos downtown had $3-$5 BJ and Binion%26#39;s and El Cortez had $3 craps
List of approximate taxi fares to all LV hotels
Just found this cite, which lists the approximate taxi fares to all of the area hotels.
Based on our last few visits, it%26#39;s pretty accurate. Of course,it doesn%26#39;t take into account waiting in standstill traffic or construction, but it%26#39;s still a pretty good guide.
List of approximate taxi fares to all LV hotels
http://taxi.state.nv.us/FaresFees.htm
List of approximate taxi fares to all LV hotels
Well it would help if I included the cite!
http://www.lasvegas-how-to.com/taxi-fare.php
flights from kayak and mixed carriers
I%26#39;m looking at flights to LV - yeah! Has anyone used Kayak to book? I%26#39;m looking at a fligt flying Northwest one way and US Air back. Anyone know what problems, if any, this would cause? Maybe this is common, I%26#39;ve just never booked an a domestic flight using two different carriers.
flights from kayak and mixed carriers
Hi
I have used kayak as a search engine. It redirects you to the airline to actually book. I have not used different airlines in the States but it works just fine in europe, so I would not see any problems with that.
Clive
flights from kayak and mixed carriers
You don%26#39;t book flights through Kayak. Kayak redirects you to the website of the airline or the travel website that you actually book through. It%26#39;s just a search engine, nothing more.
I have flown different carriers to and from Vegas and never had a problem. The only thing I%26#39;d be wary of would be trying to make a connection between two carriers. For example, if your flight to Vegas left Michigan on United and connected to USAir in Denver, you might miss the connection if the first flight is late because USAir wouldn%26#39;t know to hold the plane.
Ooohhhh... so it will probably book thru Expedia or Priceline. I%26#39;m assuming this is not an issue. They are direct flights, so no problem with connections. Other than in and out of different terminals in dtw, which is not a problem for me, I guess all else is ok? Thanks.
Nah, no problem with that... you are essentially just booking 2 one-way tickets with each carrier. Rarely is that cheaper than a round-trip ticket, but not impossible. Probably would never have found it without Kayak!
I fly one way on one airline and back on another probably more times than not anymore. Gone are the days where one way tickets are more expensive than 1/2 of a round trip. I travel often and schedule is usually my #1 priority so that is why I book with separate airlines there and back.
Hi
No it will not be through a third party unless you want it to be, there is always a link to book direct with the airline and is usually also the cheapest option.
Clive
Wow - thanks - quick answers. What a great resource here!
Reccommend me a good buffet!
Last year I went to Vegas for a week and went to two buffets, the Rio World Carnival and Mandalay Bay Buffet. The Rio Buffet had tons and tons of food, however I wasn%26#39;t really impressed with the quality of it. The Mandalay Buffet had better quality food and a live cook pasta station, but had smaller variety. This time, I would like to try someplace different. I will be going with my gf and we both like fried food, a live pasta cook station, and high quality desserts. Anyone have buffet reccommendations for what we%26#39;re looking for? Thanks
Reccommend me a good buffet!
Bellagio has a great buffet and I love Spice Market buffet inside Planet Hollywood
A great Sunday brunch buffet is Sterling Brunch at Bally%26#39;s (reservations suggested)
Reccommend me a good buffet!
I thought the Bellagio had a wonderful buffet. It is by far one of the best I have been to in Las Vegas (with Paris (for me) being the worst). Here is a little info about it:
Breakfast 7:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. $14.95 +tax
Lunch 11:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. $19.95 +tax
Dinner 4:00p.m.- 10:00p.m. $27.95 +tax
Sat %26amp; Sun Champagne Brunch 7:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. $23.95 w/o champagne,$28.95 w/champagne +tax
Friday and Saturday Gourmet Dinner 4:00p.m. to 10:00p.m. $35.95 +tax
CUISINE:American, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Seafood including King Crab legs.
Enjoy!
Bellagio and Spice Market.
Bellagio for Brunch and Spice Market for lunch.
wynn or bellagio.
Wynn is my favroite. It%26#39;s gto a good atmpsphre and good food selection and quality. Plus a big draw for me is that they don%26#39;t serve the food in large vats - they only out out smaller quantities so the food has less of a mass produced feel.
Didn%26#39;t care for the Bellagio brunch. Food was just standard for the price point, we really expected more. Haven%26#39;t been back - we just like Wynn too much.
Hi
We have enjoyed the Wynn and the Bellagio in the past, this year when we go we want to try the M resort, this sounds like another good buffet.
Clive
Loved the Wynn and Paris.
Here%26#39;s ratings online:
http://www.lasvegasdirect.com/topbuffet.html
http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/buffets.cfm
smoking or non-smoking
Has LasVegas passed a no-smoking by-law?
smoking or non-smoking
Smoking is only allowed in casinos and bars (not restaurants), and a smoking hotel room.
No more smoking in restaurants, hallways, shopping malls, etc...
A HUGE improvement in air quality in the resorts since this went into effect.
smoking or non-smoking
Thanks for that.
1st visit !
I placed a post yesterday with my manager and now I need your advise - I am visiting at the end of the month with a coworker - I have never visited so thought for my 50th birthday its about time - any way we are looking at the NewYork NewYork and wondering if that is a good choice - we are not picky - just want cleanlimess - thanks for any suggestions - even as to what to do - it all looks so overwhelming!
1st visit !
I wouldn%26#39;t recommend NYNY for your age group, it tends to draw a much younger crowd.
For a first trip I suggest as central a location as possible. Paris would be a great choice if it fits your budget, or Bally%26#39;s if you want a less expensive option.
1st visit !
Mirage or MGM would also be a good option.
Hi
I agree with Stratton, not keen on NYNY and we are of a certain age,lol. Budget would be your only draw back with some properties, but if you are not worried on price go for Paris, Bellagio, Wynn type of property, more for the middle aged. Try looking for a promo
http://www.smartervegas.com/
http://www.vegas-hotels-online.com/
Clive
Paris is a lovely hotel mid strip, so is Mirage...like them both, alot.
NYNY isn%26#39;t terrible though, so if thats what your budget permits go ahead and book it. The younger crowd isn%26#39;t in your hotel room with you :) And, you%26#39;ll still be on a nice busy central location corner to get travel easily to many of the other properties.
It might help us make a recommendation if we know why you chose NYNY. Why did you pick them over other hotels in the same price range?
T-shirt slogan help again please!
Hello!
I have the t-shirts and I leave for Vegas in 20 days...the only problem is that the post I made is not showing in my profile under forum contributions! I have tried searching %26#39;t-shirt slogan%26#39; in the search box and I can%26#39;t find my post!
If anyone who commented on it has a link would they mind sending it to me?
Thanks so much! xxx
T-shirt slogan help again please!
*bump* if anyone can help please! Thanks x
T-shirt slogan help again please!
Sorry...didn%26#39;t see your post. Sometimes if there is a poster who is inappropriate or the post is not Vegas Travel related, the moderators delete it.
Can you just type a new post? I am not sure I understand what info you are wanting????
I remember that one.
Do you remember the approximate date? Click on your username in this post and you will get a list of all your posts. Since you only have about 300 you can review the list and figure out which one it was.
Yeh it was at the end of January but for some reason it is not in my list of posts! So annoying as I was given so many good ideas and I can%26#39;t find it!
All my other posts are in my %26#39;contributions%26#39; list but not that one! xx
You are right! I just found a link elsewhere to it in my profile and it says the administrators have deleted it! I better start another, whoops!
I remember one suggestion with something about '; Loosest Slots in Town '; ..... :-)
I really need some help - thinking of taking my family
We%26#39;ve been to disney and did that and we are thinking of going to vegas but i am a bit weary... My children are 11 and 8 and I want to stay at a kid friendly location and I really need it to have a nice pool, preferably on the strip somewhere. We plan on doing the hover dam tour, grand canyon and hanging at the pool.
I am not to concerned about price I am more worried about it being kid friendly.
I appreciate your advise, thanks!
I really need some help - thinking of taking my family
There is a post at the top of the main page listing many things to do in Vegas with a family.
As for the places to stay, I would recommend the Signature at MGM. These rooms have kitchens, separate bedrooms, and excellent pools. Other choices would be Mandalay Bay and the Mirage. Both have excellent pools.
The only place that may seem kid friendly is Circus Circus. Most people don%26#39;t like that option due to the fact that it is run down and older. But, hey, it might be fine for you.
There are 2 other places that you can look into that may strike your fancy. The Marriott Grand Chateau is behind Harley Davidson Cafe on Harmon Ave. They have one, two and three bedroom villas, but not the greatest pool. I think they let you use the Polo Towers pool if you want to.
The other is the Cancun Resort. It is south of Mandalay Bay a couple of miles, and they also have one and two bedroom options. Best part here is the pool. They have 2 waterslides that my kids really love.
Hope that helps, enjoy.
I really need some help - thinking of taking my family
If you do a search on %26#39;kids%26#39; or %26#39;children%26#39; in this forum, I think it is safe to say that most will say that Vegas is generally not a kid-friendly place.
While I think that it is not quite as bad as some on this forum would lead you to believe , it definitely takes some research and knowledge to plan an acceptable vacation with children in vegas. I wouldn%26#39;t recommend it as a good place to take the kids overall, particularly if you have not been there yourself as there is definitely much potential to expose your children to things you would not have to worry about at home and without prior knowledge, some things would be very difficult to avoid.
While there are certainly things to do for kids in vegas, it is built around the casinos and other adult arenas. You often have to walk through smoky casinos just to get to the attractions, including hotel amenities such as the pool, etc and you have to watch out for porn-slappers (people who hand out cards with nude pictures and phone numbers on the strip) and such on the strip itself. Also many adults vacationing in Vegas behave in ways that may not be appropriate for observation by children.
It is definitely a personal choice and there is a sticky posting at the top of this forum listing out many things for a family to do. If you are considering a family trip, I would start by reviewing that list and determine whether there are things on that list that are simply must-sees for you , consider staying at a non-casino property off-strip so that you more easily plan shorter trip(s) to properties on the strip to see particular things and can limit your children%26#39;s exposure to what you deem as unacceptable, etc.
There are hotels off the strip that are much more family oriented. Places like South Point or even Orleans.
South Point has movie theatres, arcades, bowling, even an equestrian center. There is also dining more suitable for families. Nice large and sunny rooms. And most importantly a pool area where there will be other kids, and which won%26#39;t have the loud music and a lot of 20-somethings looking to party, that you will find on the Strip.
I would also recommend the Signature @ the MGM. The rooms are huge, kitchen for those easy meals. They also have thier own private pools but you can still go to the MGM pool with the lazy river, etc..
They also have a Rain Forest Cafe inside the MGM which is jungled themed and kid friendly.
Then you have the Luxor and Excaliber near by and when my parents use to take me to Vegas when i was a kid, i always wanted to go inside the big pyramid and the big castle...
while there may be a post with many things for kids to do the question is do they belong in LV to begin with?
This is a decision only you as the parent can make.
Know that there is no way for you to shield your children from the adult atmosphere of LV. Are you prepared for them to be around this?
Many will say kids can see these things on TV or the internet. They can, I sure hope they aren%26#39;t and that parnets supervise kids access, especially at such a young age.
Do you want them to see panel trucks driving up and down the strip with large billboards of girls advertising girls to you call 6969696?
People exhibitng PDA%26#39;s that make some adults blush? Taxi signs for strip clubs? Hookers all over? People handing out cards for out call services? The general vibe of the place?
Many parents think kids belong in LV. I am in the ';no kids in LV'; camp. 8 yo don%26#39;t understand what they will see, yet will see it.
Unecessary. There are plenty of places for children to have a wonderful family vacation sans Disney - and LV isn%26#39;t one of those places.
And, yes, kids in LV. - NOT on the strip in a hotel/casino. I have friends in LV who have children - who have never been to the strip - even though both parents work in casinos.
I%26#39;d like to recommend Mandalay Bay, they have a fantastic pool complete with sandy beach and waves, and inside the hotel, they have Shark Reef, which might be entertaining for kids that age. On the downside, the hotel itself is quite large, you want to hold hands with the kids and keep them close at all times.
They will love the Grand Canyon, but the Hoover Dam tour might not be so fun...I recommend skipping the tour, and renting a car and going it on your own. My kids much prefer feeding the fish at the marina, to going down inside the cement walls of the dam. So, we drive there, walk across the top of the Dam from the Nevada side to the Arizona side and back, and then drive back to the marina, buy a big bag of popcorn and feed the fish, before returning back to the city.
Enjoy :)
There really arent any kid friendly places so to speak. Some will be more kid tolerant then others but thats not saying much.
You can find plenty of things to do but the trick is that you will have to find them. They arent laid out before you like Disneyland would be. They will be exposed to smoking, drinking, gambling, girls in exotic poses, etc. Its just part of Vegas. Its not totally unhealthy but they wil almost without doubt be exposed to this stuff.
They dont allow fooling around in casions either which is tough on kids. You will most likely get told to move along by security when going through a casino. Keep in mind the bulk of the places are casinos so there isnt much avoiding them.
Kids can have fun but its not as much fun as a place like Disney.
We were in LV this time last year with our 12 and 8 year olds - they prefered it to Disney - theres so much for families to do if you research and plan.
Mac King and VoF are musts.
If you click on my name you should find a trip report that will give you some ideas.
Book it - you and your kids will have a fantastic time.
Oh yes - do not worry about porn - it is hardly noticeable - I had to point it out to my husband and it is far milder than page 3!
';We%26#39;ve been to disney and did that and we are thinking of going to vegas but i am a bit weary...';
Well if you%26#39;re weary maybe it would be a better idea to stay home and rest. :)
You%26#39;re going to get 100 opinions on this. Whether you were aware or not (I see this is your first post) the ';kids in Vegas'; thing ranks right up there with smoking and tipping as the subjects most likely to fire everyone up.
So here%26#39;s mine...book a night or two in Las Vegas with your kids, somewhere with a good pool. They%26#39;re unlikely to be scarred for life by anything they see. But spend the rest of your vacation touring around to the rest of the great sites easily reached from Las Vegas, like a couple nights at the Grand Canyon and 2-3 nights at Zion and/or Bryce Canyon parks.
mystere seats.. im too indecisive help!
I%26#39;m trying to book a show and I don%26#39;t know what seats to pick. I have read on here that seats too close are not good because you cant see everything going on above you... but are seats too far back not good either? Help! Please! Thank you!
mystere seats.. im too indecisive help!
I saw the show twice and booked cheaper tickets both times. First time I sat in sec 101, row H (last row of the front section). I was to the side of the stage, but had a great view. There were a few things that happened directly above us and just behind us but don%26#39;t feel like I missed anything. The second time I sat in sec 206, row AA on the aisle by sec 205 (first row) and had a worse view because they had some wheelchairs in the aisle right behind row H (between the lower section and the upper section) and that made it hard to see over their heads for certain parts of the show. If we had been in row CC or higher we probably could have seen better. So if you decide to sit in the back sections, consider sitting a few rows up. There are only 8 rows to the front sections and 13 rows to the back section, even the seats further back are not that far away from the stage.
Hope this helps!
mystere seats.. im too indecisive help!
Not a bad seat in the house really, but I agree with others, right near the stage is least favorite. Midway and back are my favorites, but don%26#39;t worry about being too far to one side, it%26#39;s a great view.
IMO most seats are good (but not all) We were on the side and it took away from a few of the stunts because you couldn%26#39;t see them to the full extent. But don%26#39;t stress out, just pick some and go and enjoy :) And hopefully you won%26#39;t be part of the ';pre-show entertainment'; like we were.
thank you! i don%26#39;t know why i%26#39;m so worried! Probably because it will be my first time going and I am extremely excited!! thanks again
Casino Rate
I got a Casino rate from MGM and plan to stay for 2 nights Sat and Sun. The Sat rate is truly half of the regular rates even with various promo codes.
They confirmed the booking for the 2 nights however the email confirmation does not state the rate. When i call they confirm the different rates for Sat and Sun.
At the end of the stay say i don%26#39;t collect any points on the playersclub card due to limited play or say i don%26#39;t play at MGM at all due to high end tables would they still honor the rates they confirmed?
Casino Rate
YES! The lack of rates on the confirmation email is of no concern. Whenever you check in, you should be able to confirm the rates.
Perhaps it could go DOWN during your stay, based on your play. But they cannot quote you a rate and then say ';oh, you didn%26#39;t play much, so we%26#39;re charging more';.
That being said, make sure you confirm the rates at check in.
station casino
Any way to get there ??
station casino
Um, yes. I guess the other answer would be ';no, there is no way to get there';, but that wouldn%26#39;t make any sense either. :)
So...where are you trying to go, and from where?
station casino
Station Casinos is a group of several properties under one ownership. which one are you asking about?
http://www.stationcasinos.com/
It%26#39;s up the road from circus circus
';It%26#39;s up the road from circus circus';
WHAT is up the road from Circus Circus??
There are a lot of people here who are happy to help with questions, but you%26#39;re going to have to provide a bit of information in order to get any assistance.
You originally post a question of ';Any way to get there?';. It%26#39;s then pointed out that Station Casinos is a group of properties. There is no ';Station Casino';.
Now you%26#39;re telling us that ';it%26#39;s up the road from Circus Circus';, which isn%26#39;t going to mean much to anyone!
Must be talking about Palace Station. And yes, it is just about a mile Northwest of Circus Circus. (on a straight line)
And you can get there by cab, limo, or rent a car.
Main Street Station? Palace Station? Sunset Station? there are many station casino%26#39;s, which one are you referring to?
While we%26#39;re on the subject, can anyone tell me what time the restaurant at the Harrah%26#39;s owned casino opens?
You know, it%26#39;s the place with the menu%26#39;s..
It%26#39;s by the casino...
The casino attached to the hotel...
The one with all the rooms...
Best breakfast buffet near the Mandalay Bay?
Wife and I will be in Vegas Wed thru Friday this week. Which breakfast buffet nearest to the MB would be suggested? I%26#39;m thinking either the Tropicana, Paris, Planet Hollywood or just eating at MB.. Who has the best for the price?
Best breakfast buffet near the Mandalay Bay?
People rave about the breakfast buffet at MB. I didn%26#39;t find it to be too remarkable. But I think my one random visit doesn%26#39;t stack up against all the good reviews.
Paris is good, but overrated in my opinion.
I love Wynn!
Best breakfast buffet near the Mandalay Bay?
the mandalay bay buffet is very good, and an extremely good value for the price. you%26#39;ll find a lot of premium ingredients and items similar to the bellagio buffet, but at a lower price.
Breakfast $17; lunch $21; dinner $28; Sun brunch $25; Shark Reef Brunch package $36. Reduced prices for children ages 4-11; free for children 3 and under
You would have to go to Paris to get a breakfast buffet as good as the one at MB, and that is not particularly close.
i vote for teh MB breakfast buffet; was awesome!
Bars/Lounges
Hi,
Could anyone recommend must see bars/lounges in Vegas? We are in mid-20%26#39;s. Thank you!
Bars/Lounges
There are no ';must-see'; places in Vegas - everyone%26#39;s taste is different. However, assuming this is your first visit, I would suggest you check out at least one of the rooftop venues that offers a great view of the Strip at night. VooDoo Lounge, Ghostbar, and Mix are the ones that come to mind, but there are others I%26#39;m sure.
If you%26#39;re looking to save money on cover charges, you can get free admission to VooDoo Lounge on certain nights here:
www.riovegasnights.com
Desert Rose Resort
Am thinking of booking this. Read a review on TA that said it%26#39;s a good 25min walk to Caesars/Bellagio Hotels. Though husband and I ARE able-bodied and quite like a walk, is there a bus service/resort shuttle service which runs to the main hotels on the strip? Only ask as I know from experience of Vegas that it%26#39;s nice to have the option. Many thanks!
Desert Rose Resort
I stayed here in November; it takes about 5-8 mins to walk to MGM so youc an get on teh monorail if needbe
Desert Rose Resort
I stayed there back in 2006. I don%26#39;t believe they offered a shuttle service, but like the previous response said, it%26#39;s only a couple minute walk to MGM and you are able to catch a bus etc. One thing I do remember, we wanted to get a cab at one point and after calling and waiting and waiting... we decided to walk over to the Hooters Hotel (on the same side as the Desert Rose) and got on one instantly! I%26#39;d suggest doing that, rather then waiting around!
You will have to walk to MGM or Tropicana on the strip and then catch the Deuce bus there that stops at all the hotels on the strip. $3 per ride or $15 for a three day pass.
we%26#39;ve booked this hotel for june.
you could use the monorail if you don%26#39;t fancy walking its only five minutes away.
grand canyon
has anyone booked a tour to the canyon with lowcostlasvegas
grand canyon
Not familar with them, but in checking the website it appears that most of their tours are to the West Rim...which if you check the forum posts is NOT the true Grand Canyon...
grand canyon
I don%26#39;t know that website/company. But you whatever tour you do you definately want to go to the South Rim, not the West Rim. The West Rim is a scenic place, but it has nowhere near the beauty and grandeur of the South Rim. The South Rim is further, so it will take more time and will probably be more expensive. But don%26#39;t settle for the West Rim, it is an inferior experience to the National Park, found only at the South Rim.
Hi
Can%26#39;t help you with the tour company, we have only been to the GC by car. There is a tour company with deals/prices in the online 24/7 magazine. Also they do sell trips right from the strip.
247vegas.com/content/…default.aspx
Clive
Papillon and Grand Canyon/Scenic Airlines are the two primary providers for flight tours to the Grand Canyon South Rim from LV. There are dozens of booking agencies who book tours for these two companies. It is generally best to book directly with the provider.
These two companies are also the leaders with helicopter flights to grandcanyon west from LV. There are NO helicopter flights from LV that fly to the South Rim.
Make sure that you know where you want to go. Then book your trip, but it%26#39;s a good idea to find out who will actually be taking you there.
Convention Congestion??
Was just reading through some other posts and see that there is a broadcasters convention coming to town later this month. I think our trip will overlap...does anyone know where this is going to be held so I can avoid that crowd?
Convention Congestion??
vegasrooms.com/las-vegas-conventions.html#apr
It%26#39;s at the convention center.
Maybe avoid monorail and eat at Mandalay Bay, lol
Convention Congestion??
Yes, it%26#39;s at the convention center. With an expected attendance crowd of 115,000 people, you won%26#39;t be able to avoid them on the strip. They most likely won%26#39;t all be staying at the same hotels and they%26#39;ll be spread out amongst many hotels. They%26#39;ll be everywhere, no way you can really avoid them unless you can obtain their agenda and schedules for their conference. It%26#39;ll just be a busy week in Vegas.
busy buffets
staying mandalay bay 16th april 5 nights,see hotel is fully booked due to big confrence fancy trying the buffet at hotel but looks like it could be big a long wait is it worth it.
busy buffets
I have only been to two buffets; Mandalay and Rio. The Mandalay has less food selection than Rio (still a lot of food though) but the food quality was much better at Mandalay. The desserts were very good as well. I would reccommend the Mandalay Buffet.
busy buffets
It is one of the best buffets in vegas. its well worth a visit but if the lines are to long try the bellagio or wynn.
palace - You%26#39;re probably right that the buffet will be busy at times, but since it is open for a few hours for each sitting there are bound to be some times when it%26#39;s not busy, especially at the beginning of each sitting.
Personally, I don%26#39;t think any buffet is worth waiting in a long line for. And I like buffets. So if you see there%26#39;s a big line, eat somewhere else and try again another time.
I, personally, had a very bad experience at the Mandalay Bay Buffet and would not recommend it to anyone. The food was not properly cooked (a lot of undercooked food) and the utensils were not clean. Maybe it has gotten better since my visit there but I would not take the chance again. There are far better buffets (Bellagio, Spice Market, Paris)
I like Mandalay Bay buffet never had a problem.
Mandalay%26#39;s buffet is second only to Wynn, in my opinion. If you%26#39;re there you should give it a go. Like another poster said, it will get busy at certain peak times, but if you go earlier or later you won%26#39;t have to wait as long, if at all.
Where's the casino that Clark Griswold went to?
You know, the one where he plays ';rock, paper, scissors';, ';guess which hand';, and ';I am thinking of a number 1-10..';, where in Las Vegas can I find that casino?
Where's the casino that Clark Griswold went to?
Found info on this website;
www.imdb.com/title/tt0120434/trivia
';In the original draft for Vegas Vacation, the Griswold%26#39;s do not stay at the Mirage Hotel. They stay at the Walley World Hotel and Casino, and Roy Walley was a part of the script. This is a reference to the Griswold%26#39;s vacation destination from the first film. The Griswold%26#39;s house is located on the same block as the Murtaugh House from the Lethal Weapon movies.';
Where's the casino that Clark Griswold went to?
It was an old casino called the Klondike. I am under the understanding that it is closed. I heard it was goofy, but didnt play the type of games that they played in the movie!
The Klondike is the hotel that advertised if you brought a copy of your airline ticket in, you had a chance to win back the amount of your airfare (and you spun the BIG WHEEL)....of course 99.9% of the spaces on the wheel were for $1.00! LOL
I wonder why the trivia mentions the Mirage then? I am so forgetful, I was thinking it was the Stardust.
Ramfan, let me get you in on a little secret. Hollywood is an illusion. They make films on backlot sets and with computer imagery. Even many of the voluptuous actresses have had their ';features'; enhanced. Are you sure you%26#39;re from New York?
LOL Maybe I should check-in my hotel as Nick Papa Georgio
That%26#39;s what our daughter calls Mr. Ducky! LOL
I LOVE Vegas Vacation and since I can%26#39;t remember anything, I am going to rent it again this weekend :)
..... and people say I am silly to enjoy the Western so.
Wasn%26#39;t it shot at the Mirage? I%26#39;m sure I remember the receiptionist welcoming them to the Mirage and the pit boss referencing the Mirage when Papa Georgio wins big.
Yes, many scenes were shot at the Mirage. You%26#39;ll notice the big fish tank behind the check-in counter in the movie. Some of the cafe scenes and bedroom scenes were obviously in the Mirage as well. Not that you can tell from the bedroom decor anymore since they%26#39;ve re-modeled.
Do they deserve more money or let them walk?
Here%26#39;s an interesting article. It%26#39;s about casino execs wanting their bonuses or they walk. Hey, I say let them walk. Tis the sign of the times.
lasvegassun.com/news/…
Do they deserve more money or let them walk?
As long as the bonus money isn%26#39;t coming from my taxes a la AIG, I could care less how much they get paid.
Do they deserve more money or let them walk?
Would this work?
http://douglatz.multiply.com/video/item/14
Honestly if I took a job that promised me a bonus and than after I worked hard all year they tried to get out of paying it I would be PISSED. My DH works on a bonus/reward system so I can relate to this.
They should give them their bonus as freeplay in their own casinos. I bet we%26#39;d see alot better rules and pay outs if they did. ;)
I LOVE the hotel reviews, they are so entertaining
Krazy4
Stoney Creek
Apr 3, 2009
When we booked with Expedia, under the hotel loc it noted a Trolley service existed from the Hotel to Strip for $5.Upon arrival, we asked Hotel staff where the Trolley pickup was and they directed us to a side entrance. After 10 mins we decided to ask other Staff associates how often the Trolley ran %26amp; were shocked by their response-Trolley was discontinued in Dec.2008 %26amp; they recommended we inform Hotel Management. Discussed with Front Desk Supervisor he offered a free buffet for our inconvenience but expressed that he didn%26#39;t believe that this infor existed on-line. We persisted,requested review Expedia under loc-after 15 mins he found the Trolley info. No apology occurred after incorrect info was located %26amp; still a free buffet was the offer-a $9. compensation replacing a round-trip taxi cost of $60.perday. Requested to speak to his Superior - we waited another hour - Speaking with Hotel Dir. proved fruitless except for receiving an apology. The HotelDir noted no monetary compensation or alternate transportation would be provided from the Hotel-even though Expedia website and Hotel staff had misinformed their customers. I noted we were looking at the difference between Trolley costs and Taxi-did not happen! Hotel Dir response is making Expedia aware of issue. This is Fraudulent Advertising, %26amp; the Hotel should take responsiblity, as the Trolley has not been available for 3 months and their OWN STAFF was incorrectly informing customers. We are out $50. per day for 5 days-$250 total. Had we known that NO reasonable cost transportation was available from the Hotel, we would not have booked at this hotel. Stay on the Strip for the same $ deals for a 4* rating, and avoid frustration when dealing with Hotel management%26#39;s attitudes with no concern for their customers and fighting for re-imbursement!
I LOVE the hotel reviews, they are so entertaining
I can see the point of the reviewer
I LOVE the hotel reviews, they are so entertaining
Me too.
If the availability of the trolley was the main reason for choosing that hotel, I would have checked out and moved to somewhere on Strip. Surely the hotel Manager couldn%26#39;t object to that.
Of course the Manager cant object to someone leaving his/her hotel for a different one that doesn%26#39;t mean that he/she has to oblige by offering a refund though.
Hi - I don%26#39;t know if things are different in the US, but as you booked through Expedia, surely your contact is with them and it is them you should be taking this up with. As your contract is not with the hotel, they are not obliged to do anything for you. The Expedia customer promise states: We guarantee that the travel you booked with Expedia will meet the descriptions on our site and in your itinerary (as confirmed on our site within 24 hours of travel), or we will work with our partners on your behalf to find a solution. So I would complain to them if you haven%26#39;t already.
I would be ticked off if it happened to me. Any idea what hotel this is?
But I agree, their gripe is with Expedia, not the hotel. And really, if they could find Tripadvisor AFTER the trip to post a review, they maybe could have found Tripadvisor BEFORE the trip and asked about the trolley, someone here might have been able to set them straight.
And just a note re: Checking into a different hotel. When you book through Expedia, you pay for the WHOLE stay. You do not pay at the end of your stay or get your money back for checking out early. Although, for the extra $$ they spent on cab, they may have been able to get something! :)
Sorry that put a damper on the poster%26#39;s trip, but I also think the issue is with Expedia, not with the hotel.
';I would be ticked off if it happened to me. Any idea what hotel this is?';
Its the South Point.
Thanks for the good laugh!
1. Incorrect info on Expedia is Expedias fault not the hotels. Expedia has a person whos job it is to update this.
2. The poster wasted HOURS trying to talk to hotel people. JEZ. My time is more valuable than this. They could have walked to the strip and back in that time.
3. One majorproblem is people always trying to get something. If this had happened in another major city they would just tell you tuff. At least they got a free buffet.
4. This is why you should always book directly with a hotel. And why you should always CALL them DIRECT to check info before you book.
Ktinca now go to the Encore reviews and check out the one where Mrs.Wynn is screaming at guests in the shopping promanade.
Room upgrade at Excalibur.
I just spoke with Excalibur and we are reserved a standard room from April 12-18. She told me to upgrade to Tower 2 is $20/night.
I have read about patrons being upgraded for no charge.
Has anyone stayed there recently that knows if this is still the case?
Is the upgrade worth $20/night?
We do understand this is not an upscale hotel, but I will have to ';work'; via my laptop in the mornings so I don%26#39;t want to be doing that in a complete dive.
TIA
Room upgrade at Excalibur.
Every time I%26#39;ve stayed there I%26#39;ve always had to pay the extra room charge, aka no bribes accepted. But that was just me. Give it a try and see what happens.
Why do you have the word ';work'; in parenthesis?
As far as the widescreen rooms, I haven%26#39;t stayed in the older rooms, so I don%26#39;t have anything to compare to, but for the price, you can%26#39;t beat the widescreen rooms. If you are paying about $650 for the 7 nights, I%26#39;d say you got a good deal.
Room upgrade at Excalibur.
Not sure if it%26#39;s worth the extra $100 dollars... depends on what you feel more comfortable with. The Tower 2 newer rooms are very nice, and Tower 2 also is right next to the pool/spa. The ';work';/desk area in the room might be nicer if you%26#39;ll be there for long periods of time, I don%26#39;t think you%26#39;ll have problems with your current reservation though. I%26#39;ve never stayed in the older rooms so maybe someone else can give a little more insight.
It seems that most people don%26#39;t spend a lot of time in their rooms in Vegas except to shower and sleep, so if you%26#39;re going to utilize the space more than most then you might want to have the upgrade.
Maybe you could try the free upgrade when you get to the hotel? When you check in you could always say you%26#39;re interested and they might help you out.
Oh, I can see how that could be mis-construed.
I well computer training for a company in Canada, so I have to look after the day-to-day stuff and sales in the mornings.......so I can go out and have fun after that :)
Actually, we got an amazing deal through WestJet vacations.....$1300 includes Airfare for 2, 6 nights at Excalibur, 2 tickets to Mystere. all taxes in (which we appreciate up here in Canada.....where we are taxed to death)
So, $1300 is everything but the upgraded room?
Yes, $1300 includes airfare, hotel, and 2 tickets to Mystere. We got a great deal!!!
Because I will be working in the mornings, internet access is $13.99/day.
I was actually quite surprised to see that extra charge. Everywhere else I travel, internet access in rooms is free.
But, it is Vegas, and I suppose the last thing the hotels want is peeps sitting in their rooms on the internet......LOL
This is an experiment of sorts for me.....to see if I can work from anywhere. My boss doesn%26#39;t really care where I am....as long as I hit my sales quota.
Hey, if I can work from Vegas or Mexico.....and then go out and have fun? Better than freezing my a$$ off in Saskatchewan.....
As a fellow Canadian I hear you about being taxed to death. You can certainly do much better than the Excalibur. Personally, I would not stay there even if it was totally free. I do however understand that it is a complete package deal. I would stay elsewhere. If the price you are paying is equivalent to $100. per night you can get a much much better hotel. In any event there are much worse hotels so enjoy your stay.
I have stayed in both the standard room and the widescreen room and I think it%26#39;s well worth the $20 a night extra for the widescreen room. They are much nicer and since you will be there for several days, I would go with the upgrade. Also, there is a safe in the widescreen rooms and there wasn%26#39;t one in our standard room. No, the Excalibur is not an ';upscale'; hotel but it is a good value and overall not a bad place to stay, especially if you get a widescreen room. We really like the casino and always play there even though not staying at that hotel. Have a wonderful trip!
BeachnutCanada,
Checkout your local available networks for wireless connections while in your room at Excalibur. I mention this because i did just that while on a comp%26#39;d stay about a month ago. Scroll through and I believe it was called ';guest'; something or other, It was one of the few that had the strongest signal rating. A screen will popup asking you to register, this service per day/multi day is cheaper then the in room net service and has pretty consistent signal strength. This company is Canadian Based. I paid like $17.00 or there abouts for 2 days total.
Thanks for the tips everyone!
stratosphere dinner
can you eat something lite for dinner or does it need to big meal to get reservation - ate there a few years ago - ot the special--toooooo much food, went to bed after
stratosphere dinner
Are you asking about Top of the World?
stratosphere dinner
yes I am
Since Fried Twinkies at Mermaids get so many comments...
This is in today%26#39;s news;
The Twinkie was invented on April 6, 1930 by bakery manager James Dewar in Schiller Park, Illinois, making thrifty use of pans that were used for shortcake production only during the strawberry season. Twinkies originally contained a banana cream filling, but this was replaced with a vanilla cream filling during a banana shortage during World War II. The original flavor would be revisited more than half a century later as an alternative flavor and is still an option today.
Since Fried Twinkies at Mermaids get so many comments...
mmmmmmm...twinkies
Since Fried Twinkies at Mermaids get so many comments...
The ones at Mermaids are poor. Go to Toby Keith%26#39;s for a much better version.
--The Fried Twinkies Snob
I was at Mermaids last night. I get to the counter and the girl says ';45 minute wait for deep-fried Twinkies and Oreos';. Yeah, like I%26#39;m going to waste that much time for that! What? Did they decide to finally change the oil?
I loved the Twinkies at Mermaids so those must be a damn fine culinary art at Toby Keith. Unfortunatley I had the displeasure of being around Toby Keith for a day and will find it real hard to give him any money. However, if others say they are great I will have to make an exception.
Off-the-menu deals
I have seen a few deals mentioning off-the-menu deals for meals (like Ellis Island steak dinner). I found one for Mr. Lucky%26#39;s $9.99 all you can eat Prime Rib but it%26#39;s dated for last year. Does anyone know if it is still valid?
Do most restaurants have these kinds of deals? Do you just ask the waiter/waitress if they have one of these deals? Or do you have to ask for it specifically?
Any other off-the-menu deals that anyone else knows of, post them here!! I would prefer restaurants on the strip, if possible. I have already done a search in the forum, but haven%26#39;t come across anything other than the Ellis Island deal.
Anything will help with our budget. Thanks in advance!
Off-the-menu deals
the prime rib at mr. lucky%26#39;s is advertised on a placard outside the restaurant, starts about 4pm they have an off-the-menu gambler%26#39;s special which is a steak and shrimp meal for 7.77 is available 24/7 - call them to confirm both are still offered.
Off-the-menu deals
Sorry, bumping this to get some more answers....
Thanks!
Go to LasVegasAdvisor.com. He posts the top ten values every month. Also see Gayot.com for another excellent source for Vegas dining values. I think the best advice for Vegas tourists looking for a good deal is to get the heck off the Strip. One of the first places we plan to go back to is Firefly tapas on Paradise. What an absolute find! Have a great time.
California in Downtown Las Vegas has an off the menu special: $7.77 for 8 oz. Prime Rib, with all the trimmings, salad, potato, vegetable, and dessert! Cherries Jubilee!
Thats hard to beat!
sheila
Ohh, and Magnolias has a Special every day, like.. 4 pm to midnight, for 8 oz prime rib dinner, salad, potato, bread.. for $7.99. Its also very good, and not on the menu!
sheila
Thanks for the advice folks!
Supershe, would the Redwood in the California Hotel be the one with the special you mentioned? I am only assuming so.... Thanks!
It%26#39;s the Market Street Cafe that has that special.
Thanks!
peppermill??
Anyone know if they have Coffee makers inroom??
thanks
peppermill??
wendoverfun.com/properties/鈥otel_flash.htm
peppermill??
thanks so much.
Monorail...
Can any of you give me some information on the monorail. Very interested in it...
Monorail...
That%26#39;s a pretty general question, but here%26#39;s some info to get you started:
http://www.lvmonorail.com/
Monorail...
http://www.lvmonorail.com/
I think it is a waste of money and time unless you are going from a south casino (MGM, Bally%26#39;s) to the Hilton, convention center or the Sahara. The stations are set way back from the strip- it is a hike getting to some of them. By the time you get from the strip to a station and then from the station to the strip- you might as well have walked it.
I am a fan of the monorail system. I usually stay at the Flamingo which has a momorail stop. I generally buy a one day pass and use it several times that day thus getting a good value for the money spent. I don%26#39;t buy 2 ride passes because with two or three travelers, it usually is less expensive to split a taxi fare than for each of us to buy a ticket. Hope this helps.
I have ridden the monorail during my last 3 trips - as others have noted, if you are staying at a property that has a stop connected in the back, the monorail is a fine way to get down that side of the strip. For instance we stayed at MGM and when we would go down to Mirage or TI - we would use the Harrahs stop and it worked well for us - beyond that, walking all the way to the monorail stations and then walking through the properties is not always the cheapest or most efficient way to get around the strip!
We are staying at the Flamingo the week of 6/28 and it is hotter than the blazes and we were looking for an alternative. Is it pretty safe? Any of you know where they have stops right at the hotel???
I used the monorail my last trip about two years ago and will when I go mid May. We are staying at the Hilton so it%26#39;s perfect to get to the main areas along the strip. The bus is OK but traffic is crazy later on and we would rather take the monorail.
It%26#39;s safe.
If you use the interactive map on the link provided above, it will give you a perfect picture of the route and stations - which are at the rear of hotels. Enjoy.
from now on I will take the monorail over the Deuce, hands down. fast, comfy and worth the extra $2! no-branier.
Lower slots payoffs???
With hard times for many of the casinos, i.e. MGM, Station, Riveria, etc. any evidence the casinos are lowering slot payoffs to help finance their debt payments?
Lower slots payoffs???
bump
Lower slots payoffs???
Not with my wife%26#39;s win!
I never win anyways, so I hav%26#39;nt noticed any difference.
It%26#39;s not that easy.
I thought they weren%26#39;t allowed to alter the machines with the exception of a chip being replaced and possibly the coin play amount for said machine.
Tipping the front desk clerk....not the $20 trick
If you politely ask for a room upgrade and receive one should you tip the front desk clerk as a thank you and if so how much? I know lots of people use the ';$20 trick'; but that is not what I am talking about as that is given while asking for the upgrade from my understanding.
Tipping the front desk clerk....not the $20 trick
I%26#39;d still give them $20 and just say ';thank you for your help'; and hand them the $20 after they tell you they upgraded you.
Tipping the front desk clerk....not the $20 trick
I didn%26#39;t ask for the upgrade but I was offered a mini suite at Binions and tipped the guy just $10. I got my $10 worth, believe me!
Depending on the type of up grade any thing from $10 to $50. If you get the same type room, higher floor than $10 is a nice gesture. If you booked a regular room and end up in a suite than $50 might be nice. Tipping is your option and not expected by front desk people. More often than not they get nothing.
I like to tip at the front desk, they are the first people I encounter in LV other than the driver and I%26#39;m always so excited to be there! Our rooms are predetermined at Harrah’s by our host so that is not the issue, but we receive such a warm welcome and feel that they are genuinely happy to see us. Treatment like that is always such a nice way to start the vacation.
Dining coupons
I have tried getting the coupons for BOA on restaurant.com but they are always sold out. I had emailed them and asked when they would be available. They said the first of the month but still out. Anyone had any luck?
Dining coupons
I did notice that alot of the coupons that were sold out did in fact open up on dec.1st.
also, if you watch the # of coupons available daily, it does change. this would prompt me to suggest that you check it daily.
do you have a 50% off promo code?
Dining coupons
No. Do you know if BOA opened up and I just happened to look at the wrong time?
The new promo code is 67757 if you need it.
the promo code for 50% is 67757
boa%26#39;s is currently sold out. have you noticed that all restaurants list their menu with prices EXCEPT Boa%26#39;s? That would scare me.
Lol..I have an idea it will probably be about $125-$150 for the meal with one or two drinks.I think thats pretty average for upscale in LV right?
Do you need to be an American resident to print coupons of resteraunts.com? I noticed that it will only allow you to select United States undercountry when you try to register.
Cashing out at the slots when you have doubled your money
curious-we always cash out when we have doubled our money playing slots. We then put new cash in or switch machines. Does anyone know if this hurts your odds?
Cashing out at the slots when you have doubled your money
In my opinion, it has zero effect on your odds. But I see a lot of people doing it.
Cashing out at the slots when you have doubled your money
No, it doesn%26#39;t hurt your odds and it is a good strategy to manage money. Just leave the players card alone - you start a new session when you pull it out. It looks better to have one longer ongoing session than several shorter ones.
Good System!!!
It does not change your odds but it is silly. If that is the only way you can control yourself then go for it.
Just about everybody has an amount that they will cash out, since your system works for you, go for it.
Since I play $0.25 slots, mine is 300 quarters.
Deep Fried Twinkie
Hi
Being from Australia,please pardon my culinary ignorance.
What is a deep fried Twinkie?????????
Cheers,
Pomlea.
Deep Fried Twinkie
The forum search threw up this old thread which answers the question perfectly..... :-)
…tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g45963-i10-k22696…
Deep Fried Twinkie
A heart attack !!
Hi
Thanks, i will try one when i arrive in vegas,
You have to die from something??????
Cheers,
Pomlea
I felt obliged to try one last year when I stayed downtown. I am not a germaphobe or a cry baby about cleanliness, but that snack bar at the Mermaid was the most disgusting kitchen I have ever seen.
You batter anything and fry it. Try the fried oreo also!
harrahs.com/casinos/harrahs-las-vegas/restau…
Heres the menu with southern fried twinkies. After a meatloaf with mayo or fried bologna sandwich, mac and cheese, a fried twinkie and white trash with money drink, its a non stop to the cardiac unit!!!
I saw one of these for sale in one of the casinos at fremont st, but again the hygeine issues made me lose my appetite.
I should had tried it at Hurrahs!!!
flickr.com/1146/1219915182_a1ff75bd69.jpg
Have a look I was curious too, then I saw what it was and have totally been put off trying it, it looks disgusting.
Just returned from Vegas and made my first trip DT. Mermaids was pretty disgusting. I wanted to try a twinkie, but the smell in the back near the kitchen was so gross I had to pass. Guess I will have to live without experiencing the fried twinkie.
They also pop up at state/county fairs so hopefully there might be a cleaner twinkie near you.
Brother-in-laws 40th B-Day
Heading to Vegas in Oct. with my sister (she%26#39;s never been) brother-in-law and bf. I%26#39;ve only been 1, but I loved it the first time. We are looking to go in the beginning of Oct. Stayed at Mandalay Bay when I went. Would love to hear of any suggestions where to stay. Kind of on a budget (who isn%26#39;t these days!!!)Looking for a decent inexpensive hotel on the strip. Would love a pool, not sure that it will matter that time of the year. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.
Brother-in-laws 40th B-Day
Hard to say what hotel as Oct rates/deals will not be posted yet. Mirage might be one to look at. Good location and very nice pools. Beginning of Oct. is often still quite warm.
Brother-in-laws 40th B-Day
In order to know what you mean by ';kind of on a budget';, you need to give specifics. How much are you willing to spend on accommodation? How many days are you planning on staying? These specifics will help.
Your definitation of on a budget might be different than others.
Hi
try the mgm for the deals they have at the moment running up to august..
rooms for $50 and bungalows for $70
Im hoping to head over in september but hopfully they will have these prices for then when they give their promotions for september and october.
you have to look up the deals through 1 of those discount sites.
sorry cant remember the 1 I was looking at it on.
I%26#39;ll look at the MGM. Budget is not spending 200.00 a night on a room. Looking to spend a lot cheaper. Trying to look at going from Oct 1 - 5 or 5-9. Not sure yet. I saw some deals for cheap money, but only thru until Sept. or so. Where are some places people have stayed for a reasonable price and a decent place? Would love to hear about it.
Driving to Grand Canyon
How long does it take to drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon?
Driving to Grand Canyon
It takes about 5 hours. I would recommend spending one night at the canyon though. We stayed at the Kuchina Lodge, which is basically right on the rim. Driving towards the canyon was the funniest thing, because I%26#39;m from NY where there are plenty of mountains, and for some reason as we were driving, I wanted to look for mountains, but everything was flat, not realizing the canyons go down, not up. It is the most spectacular thing I have ever seen. It takes your breath away. Well worth the trip.
Driving to Grand Canyon
It is a good five hours each way to the South Rim. It is tough to do a one day trip. The best way to the see the Canyon is by making it an overnight trip. You definately want to visit the National Park on the South Rim. Don%26#39;t get roped into taking a cheaper tour to the West Rim, it is an inferior experience compared to the South Rim.
Book lodging at the GCNP south rim well in advance. The hotels there book as far as a year out.
www.grandcanyonlodges.com
Xanterra is the exclusive booking agent for the NPS at the GCNP SR.
Is live keno disappearing?
Haven%26#39;t been to LV in over a year, but the last time I was there it seemed there were less keno runners and screens on the Strip. Was that my imagination, or is it being phased out a bit?
Is live keno disappearing?
I used to play Keno when in hotel coffee shops/24 hr cafe%26#39;s, I%26#39;ve noticed that some don%26#39;t have Keno any longer. I guess it wasn%26#39;t profitable enough. Plus, now they have the video Keno so no need for live Keno I suppose. I liked the live version, I never play the video versions.
Is live keno disappearing?
love playing keno while eating in the buffetts. Only time I ever played, sometimes it actually payed for my buffett. Staying at mirage in 4 weeks heard they dont have keno boards in buffett any more dont know if i will be able to eat lol
Hey poker. I played at the Flamingo coffee shop in October. Sure hope they still have it. Hey maybe we can have brekkie there on May 10th if you are interested. See you on the 9th at the meet.
Funny you mentioned this because my hubby and I were just having this discussion recently. It IS dissappearing! Sad too, because it is a great time waster while you%26#39;re waiting for your meal to arrive, I can%26#39;t believe they weren%26#39;t making enough profits on it. We%26#39;d play 3 cards 4 times each during our meal...never made more than 10 bucks in return.
I was checking for my next trip and the web sites of the following still list Keno:
Harrah%26#39;s, Bally%26#39;s, Paris, Flamingo, Caesars, Imperial Palace
Hi
Unless it%26#39;s changed since I was there last Golden Nugget did have live keno, so does Sam%26#39;s Town.
Clive
Don%26#39;t know about live Keno, it doesn%26#39;t seem to be so popular anymore, but about 3 weeks ago I was in Delaware at the Racino there and on the machines you can play keno. I saw a woman hit for $1750!
Any favorite lucky charms for Vegas?
Just wondering if anyone has a lucky charms they use or bring while in Vegas? I don%26#39;t as of yet. Maybe having my son with me will be my lucky charm. I do have another one, but can%26#39;t get spiritual here.
Any favorite lucky charms for Vegas?
My wife!
Any favorite lucky charms for Vegas?
She%26#39;s magically delicious!
Lmaooo, couldn%26#39;t resist!
The craps table.....with several beers of course.
lol at Low%26#39;s comment.
that is so sweeet, Low. She is a charm in many ways. Hope things are going well for you, Low. How%26#39;s your mom?
Parking situation....
If we stay on the strip- do most hotels charge for parking?
And, if we want to explore the strip but have someone who cant walk for too long, are there parking lots along the strip to park in and what if the fee??
Just trying to plan ahead for those MISC expenses.
Thanks.
Parking situation....
Self-parking is free at strip hotels. If walking is in issue, you can valet park and just tip the attendant.
Parking situation....
Parking is free at every casino property on the Strip. You can self-park, or use valet. If you use valet it%26#39;s customary to tip for the service.
Every hotel has their own parking. Both self-parking and valet parking on the strip is free. With the exception of I think Trump and Four Seasons.
There is no fee for parking at a hotel on the strip. They all have parking available. Just tip if you valet park. You also don%26#39;t need to be a guest at that hotel to use the parking garages or valet park. They want your business.
Parking lots are free on the strip but usually at the back of the properties and can be a pretty far walk.
Valet is the way to go for someone that has trouble walking.
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