Saturday, March 27, 2010

Cool, Hip Japanese Resto / Lounge for 30 Somethings???

Hi there,



A group of us (30-somethings) are heading down to Vegas in November.





Can anyone recommend a cool, hip, happening place for Japanese food? Something similar to Morimoto in New York City would be awesome.



Cool, Hip Japanese Resto / Lounge for 30 Somethings???


Tao. Perhaps Asian and not necessarily Japanese and the food isn%26#39;t Iron Chef worthy but it%26#39;s good and it%26#39;s cool and hip.



Cool, Hip Japanese Resto / Lounge for 30 Somethings???


You might look at Nobu in the Hard Rock - after all Nobu Matsuhisa is the guy who took a chance on Morimoto years ago.




Two suggestions:





Social House at TI. Check out their website. It%26#39;s hard to describe. Almost like the Japanese equivalent of Tapas with amazing flavors and dishes.





Okada at Wynn. A fantastic setting with an equally diverse menu.





Both will probably set you back some cash, but if you%26#39;re comparing to Morimoto, then you%26#39;re not looking for a bargain.





MGG




Yellowtail is the new sushi restaurant at Bellagio. It%26#39;s owned by the Lightgroup (known for restaurants and nightclubs in Vegas.) The chef is Akira Back, who worked with Morimoto in the past. The sushi and sake there are great, the decor is nice, and you can get a view of the fountains if you are lucky.




I agree with the suggestion for Social House at TI. We love their food, drinks and atmosphere. Very hip vibe and the food has always been consistently great.

Golf - Las Vegas National

Hi





I am looking to book a round of golf next week in Vegas. Has anyone played the Las Vegas National? Prices look ok. I was wondering whether it was any good and if it is i good condition.





Thanks



Glen



Golf - Las Vegas National


Glen, relative to the myriad of other Vegas courses it is a bottom tier facility. If you want to get a taste of ';Vegas golf'; then you are advised to try one of many other better representatives depending on your budget. Keep in mind, many courses close in Vegas late September and October for overseeding and Vegas golf is not ever ';cheap'; not even in August.



Golf - Las Vegas National


when I played it a couple years ago in October the fairways were bad and we all chunked every shot.





have you looked at one of these options:





Bali Hai twilight (at 3:30pm it goes down to $99)





or





www.ezlinks.com---revere lexington $85.25





I have played both and they are waaaay better than Las Vegas National

Anything sci fi left at the Hilton?

The original post was anything nerdy left at the Hilton ( star trek shop e.t.c) or has it all been packed away.





Thanks





Russ



Anything sci fi left at the Hilton?


All closed off - just the futuristic loos left!!



Anything sci fi left at the Hilton?


Just Barry Manilow%26#39;s face-lift.

Special Dinner - CUT, PRIME, N9NE, or SW steakhouse - HELP

Hi,



I am trying to plan a special dinner for my dad and husband%26#39;s birthday while we are in vegas. I want a steakhouse as both are lovers of a good steak. Am torn becasue I have read so many good reviews about Cut, Prime, N9NE or SW. Can anybody tell me more or help me make up my mind? We are staying at Palazzo so we would like someplace around that area? Any help would be great! Thanks!



Special Dinner - CUT, PRIME, N9NE, or SW steakhouse - HELP


delmonico -it%26#39;s right there and one of our favs



as a side note, try Bouchon for breakfast if not dinner - the best breakfast in town



if not D then Prime if nothing but the ability to sit and watch the fountains.



Special Dinner - CUT, PRIME, N9NE, or SW steakhouse - HELP


i have eaten at both Prime and SW recently. steaks, lobster, and cold seafood appetizer at both were comparable and incredible. Atmosphere at SW is more casual with the weird show on the waterfall. Prime is more classical and dessert on the patio by the fountains is cool. If it were just you and hubby and you were under 35 I would recommend SW, with dad or if you are older I would recommend Prime. DOn%26#39;t know about the others.




We%26#39;ve only eaten at SW and Prime.



Loved Prime. SW was overpriced. I%26#39;d take the Bellagio Fountain Show over the Wynn Water show anytime!




';why does someone%26#39;s age become the determing factor? tastes, budget, type of restaurant wanted, food, etc all are factors. to say SW for under 35 is ridiculous!!';





Do you really get up every day and consciously decide to misinterpret EVERYTHING you read hear.





I give BartonJaySimpson credit for trying to describe a key difference between the two restaurants. Only someone a literally inclined as yourself would actually think he was saying SW is only for people under 35.





I agree with him completely. they are both wonderful, but the environment is different. And not knowing the op, or his or her father, I think BartonJays point is completely valid.





Seriously, do you even LIKE posting here? Or do you just do it to fill your daily quota of ignorance and criticism?




My husband took me to the N9ne last year for our anniversary. WE LOVED IT!!!! Great steaks and the sides are really good too, however we didn%26#39;t care for the Gnocci. There was this hot potato dish with peppers in it that I liked. Nice atmosphere and seemed like the place to be. Music is great...they play all the latest hits. We enjoyed it and will definitely go back.




There have been several hot and cold type reports on SW here the last few months. Prime on the other hand has gotten nothing but good reviews. I love Prime, it is by far my favorite Las Vegas steakhouse, they have other delicious things on the menu other than steak if you aren%26#39;t a steak lover. Also, do request to have dessert and/or coffee out on the patio at Prime after your meal. It%26#39;s lovely and the fountain shows are so enjoyable from there.




i would go with nine. i also had the best steak ever at emeril%26#39;s mgm.




We%26#39;ve had a million Filet Mignons but @ Daniel Boulud%26#39;s @ The Wynn hit it rite out of the ballpark,sooooo amazing that my husband went to see Chef to tell him so %26amp; to be in front of Lake of Dreams was dreamy! will never forget%26amp; will always go back there!




not to hijack, but I have reservations at Prime for our anniversary, I requested a table for fountain views.





The after dinner area people are referring to is it a seated area or just standing or both?





After dinner can we just order a glass of wine and stand outside for the foutain view?





TIA

Restaurant recommendations for Christmas?

I%26#39;m looking for recommendations for a restaurant that will allow children (my son is 3) for Christmas dinner, preferably Chinese or steak. Our budget range is about $55 - $75 per person (but am willing to go a bit more since this is a special occasion). Thanks!

canadian exchange rate?





I am leaving for Reno in a few days. Do any hotels give fair exchange? New to reno



Heather



canadian exchange rate?


Hi Heather,





See the recent post here in the Reno forum titled ';exchanging Canadian dollars'; for some input on that topic.


  • make eyeshadow
  • Spending a weekend with daniel Negreanu

    Just confirmed that I am in for the weekend, Aug 8-10. It should make for a VERY fun TR.





    Two-time World Poker Tour winner and three-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Daniel Negreanu is offering players the chance to spend a weekend with him for one-on-one poker training and a VIP Las Vegas experience on Aug. 8-10.





    This is limited to only 18 participants, and already, 10 spots have been locked up. Attendees will all stay at the Venetian and begin their weekend by taking a limo to Negreanu’s house for a barbeque.





    For training, Negreanu will lead seminars on various topics from bluffing, tournament and cash strategy, and odds. Players will get a chance to take their lessons to the felt and practice them in a live workshop where Negreanu will assess their play. The following is the official itinerary:





    Friday August 8





    6:00 p.m. Board limos to Daniel%26#39;s house for a welcome reception and BBQ



    Saturday August 9





    9:00 a.m. Catered Breakfast



    10:00 a.m. Seminars, workshops and video analysis



    1:00 p.m. Catered lunch



    2:00 p.m. Seminars, workshops and video analysis



    6:00 p.m. Break



    8:00 p.m. Private Dinner



    10:00 p.m. Nightclub



    Sunday August 10th, 2008





    9:00 a.m. Catered Breakfast



    10:00 a.m. Seminars, workshops and video analysis



    1:00 p.m. Catered Lunch



    2:00 p.m. Private Poker Tournament



    6:00 p.m. End of weekend





    The cost of this weekend with Negreanu is $15,000. To claim one of the eight remaining spots, call 702-387-2353 or e-mail weekendwithdaniel@gmail.com.



    Spending a weekend with daniel Negreanu


    $15,000?? I could get 2 months in a cabana for that! :)



    Spending a weekend with daniel Negreanu


    If you take your poker seriously this sounds like a great trip. Hope you perhaps find the time for a little gambling buggy - your exploits at the tables are my favorite parts of your TRs..... :-)




    hsve a great time!!




    about 10 hr of group instruction, and some helpful hints picked up in conversation at meals and socials.



    For me I%26#39;d spend the 15k on private lessons and skip paying for the meals and socials and group lessons.



    His house is nice, he%26#39;s a smart and he%26#39;s a funny guy - you will have fun and learn something.




    This sounds awsome. It would be a dream weekend for me. But at the same time, thats 6 morgage payments!



    Oh to be rich one day...





    Can%26#39;t wait for the TR! Have fun!




    In theory, in addition to the experience and the fun and luxury of the Venetian and high-roller Vegas, you would gain the poker savvy to win back $15,000 in a night, Rounders-style. Negreanu is one heckuva player, and even being near the guy probably makes you a better reader...





    Have fun!




    He%26#39;s my absolute favorite. I totally want a detailed trip report when you get back. Is there a link to this? I would expect it to have been advertised somewhere. I get Card Player Magazine and I haven%26#39;t seen it in there...





    He%26#39;s so nice. You%26#39;ll love it!




    That is awesome Buggy. I am very happy for you. HE seems like one of the real decent guys of poker.





    Hope you have a great time and will look forward to a TR.




    Lucky you!Hope you have a great time.

    Las Vegas Family Trip In Dec



    Hello, I am in need of some help. This Dec I have to go to Las Vegas for my work, so I have decided to take the family with me. I will be taking my two girls ages 15 %26amp; 18. I need some help as to where to stay (4,5 Star) that would be good for my girls and What is there to do with two teenager%26#39;s ???





    Thanks for the help





    Jody



    Las Vegas Family Trip In Dec


    Try the Platinum Hotel and Spa. The rooms are very large and are perfect for a family. The hotel is non gaming and non smoking.



    Las Vegas Family Trip In Dec


    If you are looking for something on the strip, check out TI%26#39;s petite suites.



    Check out the sticky on the top of the forum page that tells you over 100 things to do with kids.




    the orleans is not on the strip but it%26#39;s real fun for the kids and adults alike.




    Bellagio---really nice pool and spa, lots of shopping and even more shopping at caesars forum shops next door.





    Wynn---really nice pool and spa, lots of shopping and even more shopping across the walkway at the fashion show mall.





    both have great shows and are the two nicest properties in vegas.




    i would agree that TI would work for you.



    since a 15 %26amp; 18 year old aren%26#39;t really ';kids';, they will probably be mainly interested in shopping and TI is close to Fashion Show Mall.



    Planet Hollywood might also be a good choice, as there%26#39;s a mall attached to that, and they%26#39;d probably really dig the whole celebrity vibe that PH is working on right now.




    didn%26#39;t she say she wanted a 4-star place? Is TI 4-star? I really don%26#39;t know, I have seen some remodeled room pics that looked really nice.




    There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Vegas at both outlet and regular malls. If they like rides- there are rides at the Sahara, NYNY and the Strat. Buy tickets to a Cirque show- I would suggest either Mystere or Love. If they like animals- Secret Garden/Dolphin Pool (Mirage), Shark Reef (MB- expensive for a small aquarium), animals at the back of the Flamingo and Lion Habitat (MGM).



    Here is a list of the attractions available. I would show it to them and see what they would choose. Then you can come back to this forum and ask if they would be appropriate. They are old enough to make up their own minds about activites. To me must sees would be Bellagio conservatory and fountains(at night), Venetian canals and ceiling, Forum Shops (CP- both a mall and an attraction) and the Eiffel Tower at Paris. The wax museum might be fun for them.



    http://www.vegas.com/attractions



    If you have a car and have the time- a trip out to Valley of Fire can be combined with a paddle boat cruise on Lake Mead. VOF is a ';must see'; in my opinion and the cruise is fun. You can also visit Red Rock Canyon- drive on its 13 mile loop and/or do some hiking.



    http://parks.nv.gov/vf.htm



    http://www.lakemeadcruises.com/



    http://www.redrockcanyonlv.org/

    ricks anyone been - any good ?

    has anyone been here is it any good



    ricks anyone been - any good ?


    huh?



    ricks anyone been - any good ?


    Where is it?




    Casablanca.




    lmao wally.





    HTR

    another TI question...





    Do anyone know what view the Petite suite at TI has?





    Thanks







    another TI question...


    Minmurphy,





    In 2006 our petite was on the 28th floor facing towards the Strat. and mountains. Not the main strip but still a nice view.





    The pic actually shows what was then The Frontier.





    If you don%26#39;t get any other responses, go up to the top of the page and type in ti at the search box.



    Then about 1/4 way down the page click on traveler reviews, then scroll down and click on all traveler photos. There you can see all the pics that others have taken.





    Hope this helps.



    another TI question...


    Last year we stayed in a Petite Suite on the 28th floor with a fabulous south strip view. My parents got a suite on the opposite side of the hotel with a north strip view (we had ringside seats when they blew up the Frontier).





    If you want a south strip view, ask at check in and they will do what they can.




    Our view wasn%26#39;t good, we could see Trump Tower and rooftops. There is only one small window so I went in knowing that view wasn%26#39;t going to be a priority. The views vary from the Petite Suite- some are on low floors, some on higher floors. They are all in the center near the elevators core which is convenient.




    The Petite are on all 30 floors of TI.





    My neice stayed in one for her wedding in April. Her view was of Trump. I got a Tower Suite in April(wedding reception was held in Tower suite) at TI for $190 per night. My niece paid $150 for their Petite. The tower Suite is almost twice as big as the Petite(640 sq. ft. versus 930 sq. ft) and it was only $40 more per night. Tower suites are on most floors also.




    the suites are not all on the same floor. We went with another couple last Nov and we were both on different floors. The views are different, we both did not have strip views as none were available.




    I also had the same question as we upgraded from strip view room to a petite suite when the rates went down. I email TI and requested a strip view and they replied advising me that the request was on file.

    seafood restaurants

    Looking for a good seafood restraunt.Moderately priced. thanks



    seafood restaurants


    McCormick %26amp; Schmick%26#39;s Seafood Restaurant





    335 Hughes Center Drive



    Las Vegas, Nevada 89109



    (702) 836-9000



    1-888-344-6861 toll free





    http://www.mccormickandschmicks.com





    Maybe a mile off Strip (at least from Mirage).

    how long do I need? 1st time visitor to Vegas and Canyon

    Hi,



    I%26#39;d like to visit Las Vegas for the first time.



    I was thinking about visiting the Grand Canyon, and maybe doing the Colorado River Raft tour.





    How long do you recommend we stay here for?





    Do we need to book accomdation somewhere near the canyon too for those other 2 activities?



    how long do I need? 1st time visitor to Vegas and Canyon


    I would recommend you stay at the Grand canyon for a least one night to see it - its a long drive.





    Which river raft tour are you doing? They run from several places. If its one from the Hoover Dam - you can drive there easily from Vegas. However, I think you can also get picked up from your hotel. Have a look on website to check. (I have done one from further up the river and it was fab!)





    All in all your probably want to stay a week at least, with maybe a night or two at the grand canyon.



    how long do I need? 1st time visitor to Vegas and Canyon


    Hello Bianks, we have booked one night in Holiday Inn Express about half mile from the Grand Canyon, the price was very reasonable and unlike most hotels it includes continental breakfast! we are booked for one night to see the sunrise ans sunset which I understand from people on this forum that it is an awesome sight! check the hotel out I think you will be pleasantly surprised! Enjoy your memorable trip!......Ada (Hampshire UK)




    Since you are coming from such a distance and it is your first trip there your trip should be at least a week-preferably one or two days more since you really should spend a night at the Grand Canyon rather than taking a day trip there. There is so much to see and do in Vegas itself that a week would be the absolute minimum IMHO.




    I would recommend that you find somewhere to stay near the Canyon for 2 nights to get in your canyon viewing and rafting. For Vegas, it depends on what type of person you are. If you enjoy gambling, would like to see a show or two, want to meander around and through the casinos, I would recommend at least a week. If the Vegas experience isn%26#39;t for you, then I would just give it a couple of nights just to check out the main attractions. Read through these posts as much as you can and if Vegas sounds like fun, book the week. If not, book less. It really is a matter of personal preference. If I had the coin, I would stay 10-14 nights every time I go. If you%26#39;re not careful though it is easy to spend a lot of money in Vegas. Have fun!




    You need to allow at least one night and perferably two at the Grand Canyon NP. You need to understand that there are no one day raft trips anywhere near the GCNP. The closest would be about 100 miles to the north and east at Page in Glen canyon. The closest to LV would be the aforementioned trip from the base of the Hoover dam. Both of these trips are outside of the Grand Canyon. There is a half day raft trip on the indian reservation at the area known as grand canyon west. This is also about 100 miles below the GCNP.. All trips are on the Colorado river but none are in the GCNP. A GCNP raft trip requires a minimum of 4 days of your time, and only between May and September. No matter what raft trip you choose, you need to think of it as a seperate excursion from your visit to the Grand Canyon, so add a day for that.




    Be sure you go to Grand Canyon National Park. Check out ';Things to Do'; for more information on visiting GCNP from Las Vegas.


  • make eyeshadow
  • leaving for vegas in the morning!111

    First off, I want to say this is a great site and ive enjoyed reading it daily getting pumped up for my trip. I leave in the morning for 3 nights at harrahs. I was just wondering if you guys would mind answering a few questions. First off, my plane is an nwa A319. I am a rather large man and im concerned about the seat size. Are any of you guys plus sized travelers and how do you guys fit on your trips? Also, once in vegas what is the best way to get to my hotel? From what ive read on here im considering a shuttle service. As far as my plans. I am getting into town early and plan on heading down to paris for the breakfast buffet. After that its off to Hooters to get my free 200 in slot play........yea I heard its kind of a sham but im willing to check it out. After that I was thinking about seeing the mac king comedy show at harrahs and hitting up the casinos in the vacinity of my hotel until night time when we planned on heading down to freemont street. After freemont I figured we would hit a gentlemans clubs. Any sound tips on a decent non shady strip club near harrahs?



    leaving for vegas in the morning!111


    olympic gardens is hard to beat for men%26#39;s club, thing is if there are a few of you why not just head over to Wynn or Bellagio and pick up a pro to give you a more inclusive in-room show for the same price?





    this lady at my kids school loves hooters casino so i would go for it on that slot promo.



    leaving for vegas in the morning!111


    As far as the seat goes, you can always raise the middle arm all the way up to give you some extra room. I see people do this all the time.

    Top of the World-Stratosphere

    I have been reading some reviews about Top of the World Restaurant at the Strat and it sounds terrific, though a bit spendy for us for dinner. Does anyone know what the lunch prices run and what time the lunch hours are? Lunch also would be better as my husband could wear his jeans at lunch as they state attire is casual and I would not be able to get him to dress up to eat dinner in Vegas - I can%26#39;t even get him to dress up (black jeans instead of blue jeans) here at home for anything! Also, has anyone gone and had drinks in the Romance Lounge - do you need to make reservations for this also in order to get the nice chairs by the windows? Thanks!



    Top of the World-Stratosphere


    Gramsclp,





    Have you tried a nice pair of blue jeans with a sport coat and crisp white shirt??



    (Still comfy but looks nicer.)





    I too have a hubby that would prefer not to dress up but will when needed.





    Sorry can%26#39;t help with the restaurant questions..



    Top of the World-Stratosphere


    Romance is very nice. You are not right next to window in lounge area. You don%26#39;t need to be. Go and enjoy.




    And, no reservations for the lounge. The lounge is on the mezzanine level above the restaurant.




    gramsclp: We just had lunch at the Top of the World last week (in-laws in town, had to play guide). At any rate, we made reservations a few days ahead, but not sure if they were really necessary since there weren%26#39;t that many folks up there. But, like anything in Vegas, it%26#39;s a crap shoot, so reservations are ';recommended';.





    Since the restaurant revolves, it takes about an hour or so to get the whole 360 degree ';tour';.





    The prices are actually not that bad considering the view, the service, and the food. In fact, I%26#39;d say that the pricing was a bit less than you would probably pay at other, similar ';gourmet'; restaurants on the Strip.





    We were quite comfortable in shorts and tees. Our waitress Patty was great on service, but a bit of a ';chatty cathy'; for our taste (if you get her, be suspect of any of her Vegas ';facts'; --- she was interesting, but wrong).





    Hope you have a great time. We did.




    We didn%26#39;t have res for lunch. I thought it was in the $20 range. Enjoyable.




    TOW Terrific? You need to get a grip on relaity. There are much better places to eat for a lot less expense. All you get at TOW is a view.




    We%26#39;ve been to TOTW several times for dinner at sunset. To us, it%26#39;s the most impressive sight in all of Vegas.



    The food is very good - not excellent, but very good.



    The prices are cheaper than Wynn, but more than the Flamingo.



    I wouldn%26#39;t waste my time on lunch there. The view just isn%26#39;t the same. No lights. No sunset.



    When we%26#39;ve had dinner there, I%26#39;ve seen men who were not dressed up. I%26#39;m sure your husband would be able to wear his black jeans and a nice sport shirt. They just don%26#39;t want flip flops, cut-off jeans, and tank tops.



    Make sure you book reservations for about a half hour before sunset. It takes an hour and a half to get through the meal and to enjoy the view in 360 degrees.

    mirage rooms

    upon checkin am i best offering a tip to get a good room with strip view or just ask and hope we are allocated one?



    mirage rooms


    Don%26#39;t give a tip when asking for a strip view room. Just ask nicely and politely if there might be any strip view rooms available. If the reception agent gives you one, then once you get your room keys, you might want to give her that $20 as a thank you for helping you out!



    mirage rooms


    Unlike some hotels Mirage has rooms that specifically can be booked with a Strip view. As you would expect these are more expensive, ($20-40 per night depending upon what the rates are for any given day). What classification of room have you booked?





    If you really want a Strip view room then you should book and pay for one. If you%26#39;ve booked a regular room and it%26#39;s not such a huge deal then by all means ask politely at check-in if there%26#39;s any possibility of a free upgrade. Expect nothing and if you%26#39;re successful look upon it as a bonus and tip accordingly. I agree with Gabby about not offering cash upfront, though many claim success when doing this.




    What Gabby and TC%26#39;s sidekick said.....





    I like pool view the best. Regular rooms have all been remodeled. Ask nicely to see what you can get.



    Here%26#39;s pics of my last two rooms with pool view. Note you also get strip view looking south.





    …webshots.com/photo/2758907820101286811RJVXHJ





    …webshots.com/photo/2653023930101286811KopuuC




    Lawrance why you recommend strip view room looking south?



    what is the different between strip view room looking south or north?



    I have a reservation on October at Mirage strip view room for the first time, please help.




    Please help




    In Sept 06 we had a strip view looking north, not all that special a view, couldn%26#39;t really see all that much. Based on that, I%26#39;d never pay the extra for the strip view. I don%26#39;t know about strip view to the south though.




    Sorry, been super busy.





    Personally, I think you get both views without paying for the upgrade, like Gabby said. Plenty of strip to see, along with the pool, and views of The Palms and Rio.

    Mirage or Paris??

    Hi Everyone! Again :)





    Well I think I have narrowed it down to these 2!





    Can you please let me know you opinions of which one is better. We are going to be in Vegas from 11feb-17feb.





    I have already made a reservation at Paris in a eiffel view room but I can get a strip view room at the Mirage for the same cost. Do you think it is worth changing to the Mirage?? I just thought seeing as they have renovated there rooms it might be a bit nicer there. The unrenovated rooms at Paris dont look that desirable!





    I have also been checking out the websites with promo codes so I can hopefully get a better rate in the end by booking direct with the hotel.





    Is the location good at the mirage? or better at the Paris.





    Any opinions or advice is greatly appreciated!





    Thanks so much



    Mirage or Paris??


    Both are very good choices! I%26#39;ve stayed at both (Paris more recently) and they are comparable. I prefer Mirage, but I%26#39;m admittedly biased because Mirage offers better gambling and a far superior pool.





    Location is comparable (slight edge to Paris...although this is debatable). Both hotels have excellent food choices. I don%26#39;t know if I%26#39;d switch unless you find the renovated Mirage rooms appealing.



    Mirage or Paris??






    Mirage is the better choice and class hotel, while the slight edge goes to Paris for it%26#39;s location the Mirage blows away Paris if your comparing pool grounds and Std room versus Std room.





    IMO the Restaurants are better at the Mirage they give you a better choice from inexpensive to a bit expensive, the bars are better the surrounding ambience is also better.





    If your the club scene the Mirage also wins in this dept.





    The casino IMO is boring at Paris compared to the Mirage.





    Once you see the two in person and close up you will definitely choose the Mirage on future trip.




    Hi





    I stayed at Paris last year, whilst my sister and her husband have just returned from a visit to Mirage.





    I wasn%26#39;t all that impressed with Paris. Location, across from Bellagio is hard to beat, but I found the front desk staff abrupt and unhelpful (and her shirt needed ironed too!). Despit being booked months in advance, they were unable to give me a room with a bathtub - not what I wanted to hear after 15 hours in a plane from the UK!





    My sister said the Mirage was excellent. She plays tables and said her only problem withe the whole stay was having too much free drink supplied!! she showed me some pics of the standard renovated room, and it looks fab.





    It%26#39;d be the Mirage for me, given the choice of the two!





    Have a fun time








    I prefer Paris. The rooms are around the same size at both properties but the bathrooms at Paris just blow the Mirages away.





    I also prefer Paris casino over Mirage. Mirage is too dark for me.








    I also meant to add that the bathrooms at paris are much larger than the ones at Mirage.




    If the view from the room is importnat to you, you will probably like the view at Paris better. I like both properties, but the only reason I can see switchin to Mirage is if you%26#39;re frightened by having a room with older furnishings - Mirage rooms are brand new, but arguably uglier. Standard rooms are the same size at each, but as the previous poster noted, Paris has larger bathrooms.




    Paris has the better location, Paris also has renovated their rooms %26amp; the rooms %26amp; bathroom are a lot larger than Mirage. Mirage is dingy %26amp; dark %26amp; the casino has a low vibe. Paris is more upbeat, great view, very comfy beds, friendly staff, great places to eat.



    We just got back from Vegas during Labor Day %26amp; stayed at Paris %26amp; the rooms where very nice with a new decor %26amp; the beds were very comfy. We also had a great view of the Fountains plus with a very nice sitting area %26amp; a huge marble bathroom. We love our stay there.




    Hey,





    Thanks so much for all of your replies.





    I guess it just comes down to personal preference in the end. I am sure we will enjoy our stay at either resort going by your advice.





    The pool area is not really a big concern seeing as my husband and I will be travelling in Feb and it might be a little chilly to swim? I just really want it to be perfect and I guess we are looking for a classic vegas experience! We are both in our mid-late twenties so a good fun vibe over all is what we are looking for.





    I will keep looking at the promo codes and in the end I think if I get a better rate at either one I will book it.





    Maybe even Caesars or Planet hollywood they are definately in my top picks if I can get either one at a good rate but they just seem to be that little bit more expensive which is pushing the budget.







    Thanks again and any other comments are appreciated.




    Hey Pruske25,





    Do you know if all the rooms at Paris are renovated or just some?? I know it sounds petty but that is really what is holding me back from being 100% certain on the Paris. I just really want a nice renovated room!




    Hi Tigger





    I%26#39;m going beack to Vegas next month, and we%26#39;re trying Planet Hollywood for the first time. We got a great deal through expedia.com for the hotel - might be worth looking there for rates.





    Will let you know what the new PH is like - I intend to throw a tantrum and have a crying fit at the front desk if they try and place me in an old-style Alladdin room!

    South Point Rooms

    Welllllllll, I cancelled our reservation at Bally%26#39;s with the comped rooms because DH really wants to stay at South Point. So now that we are staying at South Point and I am starting to pack, tell me....do the rooms have hair dryers, coffee pots, and hangers, or should I pack my own?





    South Point Rooms


    They have all three items ... a mini hairdryer attached to the wall (the type you typically see in a hotel), a 1-cup coffee pot and about 10-12 hangers in the closet. They also have Bath %26amp; Body works products in Coconut Lime Verbena and I made a note last visit that the shampoo and conditioner were 2oz bottles so a good amount for each day.

    Sapphire Pool at the Rio

    Anybody been there yet ? Got to love Vegas, check out the link below.





    …yahoo.com/s/…usreport_lasvegas_topless_dc


  • make eyeshadow
  • Swimming Pools

    I%26#39;m due to stay at the Las Vegas Hilton from this Wednseday but was wondering if it%26#39;s possible to visit other hotel swimming pool areaas or are they out-of-bounds or chargeable?



    Swimming Pools


    Most are out of bounds and some you can pay for to enter if they are open.





    http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/coolpools.cfm



    Swimming Pools


    I am here and Mandalay Bay is having a Movie night on Friday Night...check their website for details...my net is a little slow to pull up specifics. spent first 2 nights at rio and they did not check for any room key or anything...you can get shuttle in front of Paris by balloon for a free ride out there if needed




    As has been said there%26#39;s public access to a few pools (often for a charge) but the golden rule is if you want a great pool then stay at a hotel that has one.




    Surprised to hear that Rio is not checking room keys at the pool. When I was there in June they were absolutely checking.




    Flamingo has one of the best pools at a reasonable priced hotel. They checked room keys off and on because the place is beyond crazy busy. I bet the Hilton has a decent pool though.




    Blagger:



    ';As has been said there%26#39;s public access to a few pools (often for a charge) but the golden rule is if you want a great pool then stay at a hotel that has one.';





    Couldnt AGREE More! Bravo!





    For more POOL Rant, check out the Post entitled:



    Check Out




    ';I bet the Hilton has a decent pool though.';





    It does, it%26#39;s pretty basic but for laying out, taking a dip, spending a few minutes in the spa tub, grabbing a drink it%26#39;s not bad. Not comparable to bigger Strip properties, no waterfalls or stuff like that. But it%26#39;s a relaxing place to hang.





    If they%26#39;re still doing ';Cool by the Pool'; this time of year that%26#39;s a good deal too - discount drinks and a fairly lame singing guitar guy...this, by the way, IS open to the public for free, I think it%26#39;s from 5:00 - 8:00.

    british vegas addicts

    hello i just got an e-mail from excalibur for 2 free nights, while this is usual for all you americans we as british people dont usually get these offers. Anyway has anyone else whos english had this offer.



    I am really chuffed!!!!!!!!



    british vegas addicts


    ';I am really chuffed!!!!!!!!';





    I understand, that happens to me sometimes after a long walk.

    New Alamo Coupons

    Found some new alamo coupons for $30 and $40 off weekly at www.carrentalsavers.com





    Use code AD2051MMD for $40 off weekly on minivans, convertibles, SUV%26#39;s, Premium or luxury vehicles.





    Use code AD2123JMC for $30 off weekly on compact through fullsize vehicles.



    New Alamo Coupons


    These coupons have been re-activated and are good through 12/10/08. The $40 coupon is now only good on Standard SUV%26#39;s and Minivans.



    New Alamo Coupons


    Thanks for the post! Unfortunately, even though I have a 1 week rental Sun-Fri, it does not include a Saturday night and the $30 coupon will not work without a Saturday. I was still able to use the $25 coupon code that Alamo posts on its website.




    If you belong to Costco - go to their website and check out their various promos. We typically save quite a bit in LV renting from Alamo and using the Costco codes. PS - we%26#39;ve never been asked to show our membership card when renting.




    Thanks! I was able to combine an AmEx 15% discount with the $25 ecoupon so we%26#39;re at $122 total for a midsize, 1 week rental.

    Hotel Promotions?

    We will be in Vegas in January 2009 and was wondering where I could find deals/promotions for the Planet Hollywood Hotel?





    Hotel Promotions?


    try smartervegas.com



    Hotel Promotions?


    Sign up for their email promotions at:





    planethollywoodresort.com/…theForm





    Or check their website under special offers.




    Also check out FatWallet:



    www.fatwallet.com/forums/travel-deals/704925…





    FYI, they have been very stingy as of late with decent rates/promos at Planet Hollywood. Seems it%26#39;s newness is still attracting visitors so they don%26#39;t have to slash rates like other casinos are to fill their rooms.





    January rates will start showing up more and more, with a large number of them starting to hit in mid to late November.




    Thanks everyone for the great help!

    Traveling with teenagers

    Is there anything in Vegas that can keep my teenagers occupied? Besides bowling.



    Traveling with teenagers


    have you read the 125 things to do with your family sticky? how old are your teens? how long will you stay in vegas? when will your teens be with you in vegas? shopping is almost always good for girls, and yet that will need adult supervision too i.e. the parents money and dad as the pack mule

    Slots Play

    Can anyone tell me their thoughts of the best place to play the slot machines in or near the Fremont Street Experience.


    We will be staying at the Vegas Club (which i%26#39;m hearing is not to good at all)


    Any input would be graetly appreciated. Thanks



    Slots Play


    When we stayed downtown earlier this year, we did the best on the slots at Fitzgerald%26#39;s and Golden Gate. There was one dollar machine at Vegas Club that I did ok on, but I couldn%26#39;t win on any of the other machines there, but you may have better luck.



    Slots Play


    I have stayed at the Vegas club in the past, not bad for the price. They used to comp better but have not received offers from them in some time so we have switched to Binions. I like to play the slots at Binions, Golden Gate, Plaza and Fitzgeralds. My husband always finds a good machine at the Vegas Club and there are a few there that I like also. I guess alot has to do with when the machine wants to play and when it does not. I myself look for both payout and comp value. We have gotten better comps from Binions and Golden Gate and My friend gets better comps from Main Street Station.




    For me, the best is consistantly El Cortez, especially the dollar machines. Others that have been good to me, just a few weeks ago were The Plaza and Fitzgeralds.




    Thanks to all for the valuable info. It is greatly appreciated.


  • make eyeshadow
  • Bonus Spins

    Hi Everyone,



    We are leaving for Vegas in two days. We really liked the ';Slots'; last year. We will be staying Downtown this time. We have heard that there are some slot machines that give bonus spins anywhere from ten to one hundred spins. Does anyone know the names of the Slot machines that offer such spins? Any imput is greatly appreciated. :)



    Bonus Spins


    There are bonus spins machines all over the casonos. Most are penny and nickel machines.



    Bonus Spins


    Most common in the multi-line video slots although not always obvious from the displays. You may have to check by pressing the ';paytable'; spot on the touch screen then checking the way any bonus games work.





    In a traditional ';reel'; slot (video or real reels) one to look for would be ';Haywire'; which depending on certain combinations will start re-spinning until a winning combinstion is hit.




    Most of the ones I found are by Aristocrate brand-



    most will say how many spins you can win up to, like 15 to 50 bonus spins.



    Tiki Torch, Helen of Troy, Sun-Moon, Wolf Run, Coyote Moon are ones that I remember.




    Played the Sun and Moon machine last time I was out there and hit 50 free spins, and a second 50 spins while the first set was spinning....it was a penny machine at the Palazzo, near the elevator to the rooms.




    As stated above many penny and nickle machines have bonus spins. Be careful as the penny and nickle machines are typically the most expensive bets in the casino if you are playing max credits with typical max bets being nearly 5 bucks a pull. Also, as mentioned above the 25 cent haywire machines are great fun.




    Ring of Fire at Bally%26#39;s has bonus spins. Had great success last year. Actually hit the jackpot for 4000 quarters. There was another there that had bonus spins also but don%26#39;t remember the name.




    I discoverd a penny slot called ';Stinkin%26#39; Rich'; when I went in February. The max bet was $10 (!!too much for me!!), so I only did $3 spin. I got 15 bonus spins, then another 15 bonus spins on top of that. Ended up winning $1,300. Too bad I didn%26#39;t do the max bet! Going back in mid October, and will look for that game again.




    Try the money storm machines. I played one here in Mpls and got 132 free spins! It just continued to give extra free spins in the bonus spin round. You would think I would have gotten a jackpot from it - but I wasn%26#39;t betting max. I think I got around $450. I was good with that!




    Ditto to Sun-Moon and Tiki Torch. I played a new one a couple of weeks ago on the strip, but don%26#39;t know if they have it downtown. It was Kilamanjaro. The bonus round is 45 free spins. I got that and got 45 more in the bonus free spins. The game itself doesn%26#39;t pay much but you can rack up the $$ if you get the bounus free spins. Have fun!!

    big big bucks

    if I win big big bucks how do I get it home to the uk.



    big big bucks


    I love an optimist!





    Casino management deal with this sort of thing frequently. You can get winnings wired into a bank account virtually anywhere worldwide.



    big big bucks


    im going to win big big, big enough to buy a house in vegas!!!!!!!!




    Don%26#39;t forget about the PPO tax!




    No tax on gambling winnings for UK residents.




    talk to the casino management about your options - they issue checks all the time



    www.irs.gov for accurate tax info



    if you are a UK citizen you will have a % withheld and then file for the refund under the treaty, unless you already have a # - which you should apply for before your trip if you have time.




    ';if you are a UK citizen you will have a % withheld and then file for the refund under the treaty, unless you already have a # - which you should apply for before your trip if you have time.';





    Sorry to correct you on a technicality Bridgey but citizenship is irrelevant. Residency is the key. I%26#39;m a UK citizen but as I live in the US have none of the benefits or otherwise of UK residents when it comes to tax issues.




    I like the idea of a big suitcase with 10s and 20s!




    I would like to know the difference between UK and Canadian citizens, I have read a few times on this forum that UK citizens do not have tax withheld. I, as a Canadian have always had 30% withheld on a slot winning of $1,200 or more, I have had an ITIN for years and file a tax return annually to have it refunded. It would be a lot easier if I could produce this no. and not have it withheld at all. Has anyone else had experience with this?



    And yes, I have researched the IRS site from one end to the other, unless I didn%26#39;t find the right information, it appears this is my only option.

    Soon I'll be there

    I%26#39;m staying at the Palazzo on Oct 8 %26amp; 9. I got comped just for joining Grazie. They were offering up to 4 free nights %26amp; $50 slot credit (no Fri %26amp; Sat though).



    Vegas is hurting !



    Soon I'll be there


    when did you sign up?



    think I will sign up now just to see if they will offer me the same lol



    Soon I'll be there


    I have a venetian card, is the Palazzo card different? Or if you have a V card does it mean you can be a new sign up for the Palazzo card?




    ok i give up ,





    give more info 4 free nights and $50. slot. for your trip with 4 year old




    Rishiboy good deal. Join the players clubs they pay off. We will be there Oct. 5 through 9 and only have to pay 98.10 includes tax. We got 3 free nights at MGM and then the 98.10 is for our 2 nights at Rio Suites. Hope you do great while you are there. Enjoy!




    I got the offer in the mail after I joined the Grazie club back in July.





    We are leaving my son at home with the inlaws - but I%26#39;m still gonna miss him !




    I have a venetian card, is the Palazzo card different?



    When I joined at the Palazzo in August I was told the card would be used for both places. I wouldn%26#39;t be able to get a separate Venetian card.



    When I got my promo through the mail it was for either the Palazzo or the Venetian-I could choose.

    Has anyone been LFB at the Flamingo?

    I%26#39;d like to know if anyone has been LFB at the Flamingo. I am ususally LFB at the Atlantic City properties but there is nothing on my reservation confirmation. I can ask at check-in but I don%26#39;t even know if they do that in Vegas since it%26#39;s my first time staying with HET. Thanks in advance for your replies.



    Has anyone been LFB at the Flamingo?


    I do not want to be stupid, but what the h*ll is LFB?



    Has anyone been LFB at the Flamingo?


    RFB means Room Food Beverage. Meaning all those are comped. LFB as far as I know is the London Fire Brigade.




    Our hotel nights are always comped at HET properties. We have a good bank of TR points so that is always used for food. We have occasionally been comped a meal that did not require we use our TR points. I think HET differs from MGM properties in that usually the room is comped but other expenses are taken from you TR account first.





    We have stayed at Harrahs, Caesars and Flamingo in Vegas and they all work the same.





    Have a fun and winning trip.





    Another Heart RN




    Lodging food and beverage maybe??????




    LFB = Limited Food, Beverage and Casual Dining.




    Sorry, LFB means limited food/free board, it includes casual dining and buffets. I used most of my reward credits last trip so they are pretty low this trip. Thanks everyone.




    Thanks Jaco, you said it much better than I did.




    You said it just as well :)





    I%26#39;d go ahead and just call casino marketing and ask to speak to a host at the Flamingo - they should be able to tell you straight up if you qualify for anything.




    HeartRN - we%26#39;re LFB in AC (platinum card) and we just got back from 9 days in LV - staying at the Flamingo. Our rooms were comped for the entire stay, any meals that we ate at Harrahs properties we charged to the room (total $375). When we checked out they took all of the meals off, but they also used our TR dollars too. I think next time we%26#39;re there, I%26#39;ll just go to the Spa, and have them use my TR $$$s - that way they won%26#39;t be able to take them.





    Good luck!




    I thought it was a bit far for the London Fire Brigade.

    TR- 9/15-18 and Info

    Trip-Info Report 9/15-9/19





    I am not writing a day by day account of my escapades in LV per se. I just wanted to let people know of my highlights and give some info on the places I went……





    Imperial Palace: I have stayed here many times, and I like the place. I had a good time playing BJ with Greg (older Elvis impersonator) and Kathy (Carrie Underwood impersonator) in the “Dealertainer” area. I didn’t win much money, but find it enjoyable to even lose when I’m having fun interacting with them and the rest of the table. They are both GREAT entertainers. GREAT drink service and they do not hold back the alcohol. I did eat at the Tea House late one night and had the special. I didn’t think it was very good or worth the $$. I accepted one of the strip-facing rooms over the Carnival Court to see actually how loud the rooms are. It wasn’t anything horrible (as I have 5 kids at home), but it is not for the light sleeper for sure.





    Bills: This is a nice and small casino. Had pretty good luck at keeping my $$ and saw Big Elvis for free. Good show and a decent $1 hand pour margarita available 24/7





    Ellis Island: Great breakfast as usual. I had the special, of course, and it was quite tasty. I hit $150 the first spin of a .25 slot. GOOD DAY!!





    Bellagio: I spent a lot of time in front of the fountains. It is my favorite place. They played my three favorite songs almost every night. “Proud to be an American” “Luck be a Lady” and “Shoot me to the Moon”. FYI – The CONSERVATORY is under construction for the fall season.





    Harrahs: I spend many of my evenings at the “Dueling Piano” bar. The twins and their co-workers always put on a GREAT show. Drinks are a little spendy, but the show is worth it. No cover during the weekdays. The bands at Carnival Court were quite good, and I could spend hours watching those spray paint artists create paintings, especially Tony Vegas.





    Luxor: Added more ultra-lounge type space. The mezzanine area near the food court is going to have “Bodies-the exhibition” and “Titanic” in it instead of the Tomb of King Tut.





    Casino Royale: I bought more than my fair share of the cheap margaritas here and bought a few discounted LV shirts from the wholesaler. I also had the opportunity to meet POOKALOKI and CUTIEPIE during their slushy drink challenge. Those were some BIG glasses, and people should not drink that much in one sitting. Pook had a second refill of ice at the Carnival Court.





    Margaritaville: I invited Pook and Cutiepie to the place, and the food was very good as usual. The drinks were also quite tasty, and the Volcano Nachos were arriving at many tables!!





    O’Sheas: I didn’t have much luck here this trip on the tables, but did enjoy $2 drafts from the bar and tried out “Beer Pong” for the first time. It was new and fun, but I recommend a few “before pong” beverages as it will help with your aim.





    Caesars: Still a beautiful place with a Godiva chocolate store near the pool entrance where I always get Mrs. Gambler a whole box of nothing but milk chocolate coconut truffles. I’m on a first name basis with the manager there now.





    Overall was a GREAT trip and the weather was beautiful. Wish I was back there again already!!!



    TR- 9/15-18 and Info


    great TR I am glad you had a good time, I wish I was ther to meet POOK and Cutiepie.



    TR- 9/15-18 and Info


    Good TR, sounds like you had a great time, dueling piano%26#39;s and Carnival Court is also a favorite for us, looking forward to the end of Oct.!!




    It sounds like you had a great time. Really nice TR. Many different casinos, each with different experiences. It was also nice that you were able to meet Pookaloki and Cutipie. Thank you so very much for sharing :-)





    VegasSue

    Trip report: 9/18 - 9/21

    Drove to Vegas from Cali.





    Arrived at midnight and was determined to stay in Downtown Las Vegas. Decided on the Four Queens. Friendly front desk. Great room, spacious, flat screen tv. Saw Fremont Street Experience and unlike anything ever - always interesting.





    Friends stayed at Excalibur so visited their room. Ok, but not as nice as Four Queens.





    Roomed at Tropicana for 2 nights. Second stay at Tropicana and still not impressed. Yeah, the rooms are cheaper but the service was bad, unfriendly staff, food expensive, and casino floor too cold.





    Annual Rehab pool party at Hard Rock Hotel was so enjoyable. Pool was absolutely fabulous! DJ, 1500 capacity, cabanas and beds poolside, one of the best pool parties ever.




  • make eyeshadow
  • fat burger, in n out, del taco, jack in the box etc etc

    Are any of these places close to harrahs? My friend and I are fast food afficianados and are greatly looking forward to some non reginal fast food dining. What is the best way to get to some of these places



    fat burger, in n out, del taco, jack in the box etc etc


    You would be best to hire a vehicle,there is a big cluster of these places on W.Sahara,mostly on the north side.



    fat burger, in n out, del taco, jack in the box etc etc


    Yikes!




    I would hope as a travel forum it would be ok to ask questions like this. I thought the point of this site was to share information between each other. If our answer is going to be use google then we might as well close this thing down. BTW Fatburger is up near MGM. I haven%26#39;t been to the others.




    After you eat at all those places, dont worry most hotels have defibrillators onsite...lol




    There is a McD on the west side of the Strip, near Slots O%26#39; Fun.





    The Riviera has a food court, but I don%26#39;t think it has any of the national chains inside. I think the Mex place is La Salsa.





    East side, near Harrah%26#39;s, is another McD and a Panda Express.





    FatBurgers is on the east side, towards the south, near the Coke Bottle.





    Maryland Parkway (about one mile east of the Strip) has a huge number of fast food chain outlets. In N Out (near Trop), Jack%26#39;s (near Trop), McDs (every few blocks), BK, Del Taco (at Trop), Taco Bell (at Twain), Carl%26#39;s/Green Burrito (near Desert Inn). I assume Wendy as well (although I can%26#39;t place them at the moment).





    Please note, when I say that Taco Bell is at Maryland and Twain, I am not saying that there are not others as well. Maryland Pkwy has a LOT of fast food.




    I agreed with Homeboy. Even though there are plenty of answers from well intended TA people, this question definitely can be found factually via google search.




    Also La Salsa next to the coke bottle has a great inexspensive breakfast special- eggs, meat, tortillas



    very cheap.



    I think at the McDonalds near slots of fun there is 2 other fast food, plus Excalibur has several inside of their food court.

    Just booked flights I'm so excited!!!

    I%26#39;ve just booked flights for next summer for a 19 day trip to the US, including 4 nights in Vegas!!! I%26#39;ve never been but I%26#39;m completely obsessessed with the place and this forum and am addicted to people%26#39;s trip reports. We will be doing San Francisco, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, LA and San Diego and of course Las Vegas. I definitely want to spend at least 2 nights in the Bellagio and possibly 2 nights in the Flamingo - is it an ok hotel? Was originally doing 4 nights and Bellagio but I thought I%26#39;d split it to save a bit of money and the Flamingo is only æ‹¢36 per night



    Just booked flights I'm so excited!!!


    Sounds like you have an awesome trip planned. We loved our stay at the Bellagio. I have never stayed at the Flamingo. We usually stay at MGM Grand. Maybe look at that.





    I%26#39;m sure there will be many others that will post their opinions.

    Anyone else going to the Olympia Expo this weekend?

    My fiancee is into bodybuilding so we are going to Vegas because of the Mr Olympia events. I%26#39;m just curious if anyone else is going to either the competition or the Expo?





    I went to the one in L.A. but it was much smaller than I had expected. I%26#39;m hoping this one will have more vendors.





    Yay free supplements!



    Anyone else going to the Olympia Expo this weekend?


    yes going fri and sat to comp and expo cant wait



    will biggest ever



    wolf will win



    Anyone else going to the Olympia Expo this weekend?


    My friend and I are flying down to the Olympia from Toronto. It will be my third. The expo is huge and there are tuns of free supplemnets!





    I can%26#39;t wait to see Jay defend his crown!!! I was there two years ago when he won over Ronnie...What an awesome moment!




    Jay will defend his title!





    Expo is a huge even with lots and lots of vendors...and you never know who you might see walking around. I%26#39;m arriving early Thursday to meet the competitors and take pictures. Wait until you see the size of the men! You will have a great time!








    Good, I%26#39;m glad it%26#39;s going to be big! I%26#39;m excited!





    I wonder if the swimming pools at the casinos are going to be turning a funny color brown over the weekend... lol

    sept 26 4 nites - who else will be there

    sept 26 4 nites - who else will be there



    sept 26 4 nites - who else will be there




    Me and the missus will be there - Sept 26th to Oct 3rd.





    Leaving from Manchester. Staying at the Hilton.





    Who you flying with ?





    Cheers,



    Slim



    sept 26 4 nites - who else will be there


    virgin via gatwick - direct flight - you BMI ?




    will be there sept 26 till the 1 first 2 night at circus circus last 3 at plazzo. going to see cher and jerry boys.




    Plazzo will be nice






    Will be there Sep.28 - Oct 2 at IP.




    Will be there from 25th-28th at MGM.....bring it on!!!




    I%26#39;ll be there the nights of sept 26-28...Circus Circus




    We will be at the Wynn for three nights starting Thurday, 9/25. Really looking forward to it!





    Anybody planning a meet and greet?




    I%26#39;ll be there 26th to 30th, 2 nights at Gold Coast, 2 nights Gold Nugget.




    sept 30th to 6th oct staying at MGM in a spa suite wwwwhhhhhhoooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhooooooooooooooo

    mamma mia section b row b good seats???

    hi all booked mamma mia and got good price $50 each looking forward to it are we in good seats for the price ?



    mamma mia section b row b good seats???


    There are no bad seats, just a not so good show.



    mamma mia section b row b good seats???


    Hi suebubbles, i%26#39;m just being nosy, but what dates are you going i%26#39;m staying at the mirage next month with my sister and we%26#39;re going to see mamma mia too, sec B row c!!looking forward to it!




    I loved Mamma Mia! So did my husband. We sat in the left hand section, 3rd row and the seats were great!



    I would go see that show again in a second!



    Enjoy!




    DH and I saw the show last year. We sat in section C first row, aisle seats across from section B. We had half price tickets last October and we both agreed that we would have paid full price. The show had us singing for days! I hope you enjoy it.





    Good Luck!



    VegasSue

    Trip report 9/11-9/14Empty roads, empty casinos,lots of fun!

    Dh and I decided to take a trip for our second anniversary. DH is 32 and I%26#39;m 29, we really, really, really needed a vacation.





    We live in So California so we decided to drive, plane tickets were ridiculously expensive. I had to work a 12 hour shift Thursday so we didn%26#39;t leave until 9pm. I was hungry and cranky...and I was not being the best travel companion. I finally fell asleep a little past Barstow and didn%26#39;t wake up until Baker. DH hates driving alone but said he was really glad I fell asleep!! I was refreshed and in better spirits when I woke up, especially since we had only about an hour until we got to Vegas! So I offered to drive the rest of the way. Theres something about coming over the hill and seeing the lights of Vegas all spread out in front of you! Very exciting!



    Our rooms were comped at the Flaminog, got our room on the fifth floor about 700 miles away from the elevator, overlooking the parking garage. The room and hallway reeked like cigs and the room was so outdated and worn, it was really a depressing environment. We went back down and the front dsk was really nice and apologetic, got our new room ont he 15th floor overlooking the pool. Room was renovated but still showing wear. We stayed in a GO room last year and while this was clean and comfortable for $0/night I MAY consider a GO room next time.



    Walked across the street to CP and played some rapid roulette, pretty good drink sevice. Started feeling good =)



    Casino was empty! While it was semi late on a thursday night, this was a little odd and perhaps a sign of the times, def a sign of what was to come for the rest of the weekend.



    To be continued, I%26#39;m tired!





    Trip report 9/11-9/14Empty roads, empty casinos,lots of fun!


    Good start! Looking forward to the rest...



    Trip report 9/11-9/14Empty roads, empty casinos,lots of fun!


    I still think people have a worry about travelling on 9/11 and with kids back in school early Sept is normally quiet.



    The present economic situation is obviously a factor as well.



    Hope it stays quiet for early Oct when we travel.




    more please...




    I%26#39;m sorry for this question, but what does the D in DH and DW mean?





    I should know this by now........




    DH had been working 6 10%26#39;s!!!!!





    nothing beats a vegas trip after that, but I remember crashing hard after the initial excitement when I had worked those long hours the week before a trip.




    ';..Guido in a speedo by the pool';. LMAO!



    It%26#39;s amazing how time just flies by when you sit down to play.



    Pls keep going.




    Enjoying your TR very much. In March I was sitting at a bj table and the lady next to me had a melt down over some people that were hovering over her shoulder. I love the ';circling the drain'; expression!




    Enjoying your reports very much indeed.





    Will try to do the same when its my turn in November


  • make eyeshadow
  • Vegas with kids ?

    Need help ! I%26#39;m not sure if I should bring my 4 1/2 year old son with me %26amp; my wife on the our up coming 4 night trip to Vegas. We are staying the first 2 nights at Palazzo and rest at Planet Hollywood.





    Will there be enough kids friendly places in Vegas to keep him busy ? I%26#39;m also worried me and the wife won%26#39;t be be able to enjoy ourselves especially the nightlife if we take him. I hate going away without him though.



    Vegas with kids ?


    ';Shirley,'; you must be jokin%26#39;....





    Vegas with kids ?


    Don%26#39;t call him Shirley.





    Malebird




    Stay home





    Vegas is becoming a ghost town due too the economy.





    Slots are xtra tight.



    Comps are a joke.



    Drinks are watered.



    Customer service is meager.





    Vegas aint Vegas .




    ';I%26#39;m also worried me and the wife won%26#39;t be be able to enjoy ourselves especially the nightlife if we take him.';



    Of course you can bring him along. You might consider getting bottle service at the clubs, so your son will have someplace to sit. But be advised that the clubs have fairly strict dress codes. Are you sure your son has an adequate wardrobe?




    Vegas ain%26#39;t no place for kids.




    So there are enough people who will tell you why not to bring your son to Vegas. So I will tell you how it went with our 4 year old daughter last Sept.





    BTW we are in Vegas about every 6 months on our own but this trip we drove from Saskatoon to LA with a 3 night stop in Vegas.





    It is all dependent on the trip you want. If you want a lot of family stuff its there but you need to go looking for it. And it depends on what your son likes to do. My daughter loved ';The Secret Garden'; at the Mirage and lounging by the pool at the Flamingo. We also took her on a gondola ride at the Venetian. In the evenings we were back at our hotel every night by 9:30ish. Then I would head out to the casino for a bit a play and then I would come up to the room and DH would head out for a bit. Not how I want to spend every trip but this one was great.





    It all depends on what you expect to do and what type of stuff your son is into. If you want lots of action and fun for kids that may be harder to find.





    Any other questions drop me an email if you want!





    Enjoy your time with or without your son!




    KTINCA:





    Bottle Service???





    One of the most brilliant lines I%26#39;ve read on this forum.





    Bravo!




    There are lots of things to see in Las Vegas. Obviously people have negatives and positives about Las Vegas.





    4 nights may be a little bit too long for your son..but 2 or 3 would be good.





    There%26#39;s a lot of kid friendly places- Ethel M Chocolate factory, M%26amp;M%26#39;s World, World of Coco Cola, Shark Reef, Gameworks, arcades, roller coaster rides, and more!





    You could tell him to go to sleep first if you wanted to go see the nightlife. But that depends on you and if you think he will be fine and not wander around after you leave.





    Your kid might also like the WOW stuff in Vegas...like the Bellagio Fountains, Paris Eifell tower, Mirage volcano, et cetera.





    So it depends on you! Do some further research and I am sure you%26#39;ll get a conclusion of to bring your kid or not to bring your kid.




    ';You could tell him to go to sleep first if you wanted to go see the nightlife. But that depends on you and if you think he will be fine and not wander around after you leave.';





    BSA, the rest of your post seemed pretty serious, so I%26#39;m compelled to ask...You%26#39;re not suggesting these parents leave their 4 year old kid alone in a hotel room to go explore, are you? Maybe I%26#39;m just misunderstanding what you meant...




    Echo - that%26#39;s exactly what I was wondering!





    The rest of the post was quire serious, so I%26#39;m assuming that part of it was either a joke or a mistake, as surely no one in their right mind would leave a 4 year old in the room on their own - would they?

    Blue Man Group

    Do they ever have tickets 1/2 off at those half price ticket locations...tickets4 2nite or whatever they%26#39;re called.....Or does anyone know of any promo codes or has used a site they trust where you can receive discounts for them? We%26#39;re already booked KA...





    but my husband has been wanting to see them for the past 3 yrs so I%26#39;d like to take him. Usually we do just the one show and he always says we don%26#39;t have to do blue man group what do you want? .... I know he%26#39;s the best :)





    Since we%26#39;re doing one already it would be nice for a discount... the other show i was considering was danny ganns but he read alot of bad reviews on it.





    any suggestions?



    Blue Man Group


    didn%26#39;t get any hits on this? Does anyone out there have anything for me? :)

    What are your best Vegas tips? Help please :)

    I am leaving for Vegas on Saturday and I can%26#39;t wait! My problem is that I have so much to do to get everything in order before I leave that I don%26#39;t have enough time to spend on this forum so I can learn the best advice.



    So, what do you recommend? I%26#39;m staying at the Hilton (work conference) and will be there until Thursday.



    Thanks so much!



    Allie



    What are your best Vegas tips? Help please :)


    1) As your at the Hilton check out the options for monorail tickets and decide which is best for you.





    http://www.lvmonorail.com/





    2) Don%26#39;t plan too much. Yes make sure you see and do all the things you really want to but don%26#39;t make plans for every minute of every day. Allow time for doing things spontaneously - often the most fun you can have in Vegas.





    3) Have one nice dinner in a reasonably upscale restaurant.





    4) See at least one show. Visit a discount booth if you like to get cheap tickets for a show for that night.





    http://www.tix4tonight.com/





    5) Sign up for players cards at whatever casinos you visit. Even if you don%26#39;t gamble a penny you may get free gifts for signing up and you%26#39;ll be on the hotel%26#39;s radar for possible future offers.





    6) Wear comfortable shoes.



    What are your best Vegas tips? Help please :)


    Blagger gave you some excellent advice, the best being the one about bringing comfortable shoes. That can make a really big difference in your trip because you won%26#39;t believe how much walking you will do in Vegas. Also, bring a crossbody handbag if you have one. I have a Travelon bag that I use and a dooney crossbody bag that I trade out with the travel bag. It%26#39;s nice to be hands free and you don%26#39;t have to worry about where your handbag is when you%26#39;re gambling or in a restaurant or shopping. No handbag is 100% secure but i do feel safer with a crossbody bag in Vegas.





    As Blagger said, don%26#39;t plan too much. There is so much to see and do in Vegas that it can be overwhelming, especially if you try to plan too much. Just kind of ';go with the flow'; and you%26#39;ll have a great time!!!




    just got back after a wk. there,it was the 1st time so i put alittle agenda together b4 leaving %26amp; then made notes along the way when i was there,soo if its your 1st i%26#39;lltell u what i would definitely make time for: the Bellagio Fountains @ nite,breathtaking!cross the street %26amp; go to the top of the eiffel(plus u will luv the interior of Paris,thats where i stayed),go c the Fremont Experience, go to the top of Stratosphere %26amp; have a drink@ Top of the World %26amp; then go up a floor or 2 %26amp;watch the insane ones take on the 3 craziest rides i ever did see!I loved watching The Lake of Dreams @ The Wynn,again sit down @ The Parasol lounge outside %26amp; you r in for a treat!loved it!Yes take in a show if thats what u r into.Loved The Venetian ,%26amp;Caesars too but thats one huge place so you will b there for awhile.i did some site seeing%26amp; shopping during the day but then waited till the early evening rite b4 it gets dark to watch the transition.Gorgeous! love Vegas %26amp; i%26#39;m sure u will too! have a great time!i%26#39;m still in awe!




    Hilton is probably the best monorail location- it is right outside of the casino, not like the other stations where you are walking and walking to get to the properties.





    Take the monorail- get the 24 hrs pass and go to the flamingo stop and have dinner at Margaritaville- casual, fun good sandwiches, drinks.





    Drink lots of water and use lotion, it is so drying there.





    Take pictures and post them her for everyone to see.





    Have fun, I dont get to go until 11/26/2008.




    If you%26#39;re going to drink all day, start early and don%26#39;t forget to eat.




    I%26#39;ll beat BridgeF to the punch and say ';why do people always tell you to bring comfortable shoes? Don%26#39;t you wear comfortable shoes at home?'; Sorry Bridgey, stole your thunder.





    It is great advice though. I think most people do way more walking in a few days in Vegas than they do in a month at home. Also, you really don%26#39;t realize how dehydrated your body gets, so drink loads of H2O.




    When you post your TR use capital letters and periods.



    Just kidding - of course!



    Drink cocktail, drink water, drink cocktail, drink water.



    Never make eye contact with time share peeps.



    Check out the table before you plunk your $$ down. If everyone is grim...move on.



    Cheers,



    CS

    Planet Hollywood, Bally's or Paris? Fave shows?

    Narrowed down- coming to a conference.



    Which would you recommend of these 3?





    Have never been to a Vegas show, either! Which should I check out?





    Dec 3-6th are my dates.



    Planet Hollywood, Bally's or Paris? Fave shows?


    I really liked planet hollywood -- I have stayed at Bally%26#39;s as well. Older hotel but very large spacious rooms. Ours had a sunk in tub (pretty big) we liked it but doesn%26#39;t come to the quality of the planet hollywood rooms. I have never stayed at Paris. I would imagine their pretty nice too.



    Planet Hollywood, Bally's or Paris? Fave shows?


    I would choose in this order:



    Paris



    Planet Hollywood



    Bally%26#39;s





    Paris had nice rooms and a nice casino - good buffet and other good dining places.



    Planet Hollywood has nice rooms and a great casino - great atmosphere - also attached to Miracle Mile for shopping and dining options.



    Bally%26#39;s rooms are not in the same category at Paris or PH - I don%26#39;t really like the casino either.



    Check out the half price ticket booth down near MGM for tickets for that night only- you can normally get Mamma Mia, Carrot Top, Nathon Burton, etc.



    I would recommend Mystere but you should buy that ticket prior to going as they sell out and often are not available at discount ticket booths. (If by chance it is, the discount is usually no more than 20%.)

    Boulder Creek Golf Club

    Anybody played this course? Was thinking of playing here next month when I%26#39;m in Vegas. How far of a drive is it from the strip, and yes I will have a car.

    grocery shopping signiture mgm

    Hi all



    its our first time to vegas so no idea what to expect .Going to a family wedding for 10 days with a 3 year old .Where is the closest place to the signiture to stock up on handy things like bread milk coffee juice cheese beer wine chips fruit etc.



    grocery shopping signiture mgm


    If you have a car and ask Valet at the Signature they will give you directions to the nearest Vons store across from UNLV. I prefer Albertsons on Flamingo. A cleaner store with better selection than Vons. (IMO)



    If you do not have a car you can shop online and they will deliver all your groceries to your door at The Signature for $9.95. Best deal in Vegas!



    grocery shopping signiture mgm


    I agree with CondoHotel, the Albertson%26#39;s at Flamingo and Maryland Parkway is much newer and larger than the Von%26#39;s at Tropicana and Maryland Parkway.





    Also, across the street from the Albertson%26#39;s is a Target store, where you can stock up on anything else you need.





    If you don%26#39;t have a hire car, you can take a bus to either of these stores. One bus line goes straight down Tropican and another goes straight down Flamingo. You are going roughly a mile east of the Strip.


  • make eyeshadow
  • Advertising Ashtrays?

    I understand this is a weird question, but do Las Vegas casinos have their logos on their ashtrays or are they like Reno and just blank. I have a very large collection and am looking forward to maybe adding a few. Here is a small sample of my collection:





    http://tortoise.myphotoalbum.com/albums.php





    Another interesting site some of you Las Vegas purists might like is this one:





    http://www.nevadacasinoashtrays.org/





    Thanks,





    Tortoise



    Advertising Ashtrays?


    I would imagine if they did quite a few would ';walk'; out the door due to people wanting to ';add to their collections';.





    I don%26#39;t recall seeing any logo ashtrays in casinos.



    Advertising Ashtrays?


    A friend took his Dad away recently for the weekend to a big college football game. The old man was walking off with everything in the hotel room and said, ';They put their name on it because they want you to take it with you.';




    Any I can recall are plain glass but there are plenty of logo%26#39;d matches. Not the same I know, but at least related.




    I know that you can ';buy'; a Golden Gate ashtray using your players cards points.




    In the casino%26#39;s I%26#39;ve only seen the basic clear or black glass ones, no logos... Try the gift shop.




    I just looked at your ashtrays in the link you provided. The Golden Gate one is different than the one you have. It is black and the name and logo is around the outside of it.




    Thanks...





    IrishFan hit the nail on the head. They stopped printing the logo for the same reason they stopped feeding people $4.99 steak dinners. They were walking out full both in their stomachs and their purses at the casino%26#39;s expense. Of course it%26#39;s great for those who collect them.





    My Golden Gate ashtrays are probably from the 60%26#39;s and 70%26#39;s. I will hit the gift shops for sure.





    Tortoise




    Nice collection of Vegas ashtrays!!





    TI (Treasure Island) had the ashtrays with their logo. As of March 2008, I think they were on the Casino Floor, but perhaps it was the hotel room or restaurants where I saw them.





    The ashtrays look very nice too! ;)




    in the flamingo rooms, the ashtrays were plain glass with no logo, however i was able to pick up a few different logo ones in the gift shop for just a couple bucks each.



    so if you%26#39;re a collector, you will still be able to find them... just not for free.

    Fun & Cheap

    Hey everyone





    My husband and I are heading to Las Vegas mid October Sun-Thurs for his birthday. We were there last June and it was VERY last minute, so we didn%26#39;t really know what to do or where to go, plus the fact that it was over 100 degrees every day, we feel like we didn%26#39;t get to see a whole lot.





    One of my husband%26#39;s favorite thing to do in the world is to find things that are CHEAP. Last time we stumbled upon the Slots-A-Fun 99 cent hot dogs - he loved it. I was wondering where the best places to get a cheap margarita or some shrimp cocktail or even a cheap buffet. We probably won%26#39;t have a car, so I am looking for things that are either on the Strip or we will probably take the bus down to Fremont Street one night.





    Also, I was thinking about doing a nice dinner the night of his birthday - nothing too fancy, under $50 per person. We are staying at Planet Hollywood and have tickets to Wayne Brady that night, so something close by would be great.





    Thanks in advance for all the advice! :)



    Fun %26amp; Cheap


    I believe that I have read that Bill%26#39;s has 99 cent margaritas and Casino Royale has some cheap drinks, but I forgot what types of drinks.





    If you go downtown, sign up for the players card at Golden Gate and you can get shrimp cocktail for 99 cents. Also, you can email the Fremont Street Experience (their email address is somewhere on their website), and ask them to mail you a coupon sheet. You can always pick one up at the Fremont Street Experience office if you don%26#39;t get it ahead of time. I believe the door is somewhere near Walgreen%26#39;s. Last time we had that coupon sheet, there was a 2-4-1 coupon for the Main Street Station buffet. That buffet is very good and it was only around $13. You can get fried twinkies or fried oreos at Mermaid%26#39;s downtown for 99 cents.





    You can also sign up for players cards everywhere and get free gifts and coupon books. In May, Bill%26#39;s gave you a coupon book and there was a coupon for a free drink. There might have also been a coupon for a free hot dog. Harrah%26#39;s properties gave a coupon book and there was a coupon for a 2-4-1 ride to the top of the eiffel tower.





    If you want to waste 90 or so minutes, you can sign up for a timeshare presentation through Westgate at Planet Hollywood. They are inside the casino, near the elevators and restroom, not the people in the walkway near the entrance. Those people are from Tahiti Village. The timeshare presentation is right at Planet Hollywood and you can choose what you would like to receive for attending. I received 2 free buffets for the spice market buffet and 2 tickets to Steve Wyrick.



    Fun %26amp; Cheap


    They sell $1 margaritas at Bill%26#39;s. They are small and not the strongest in the world. Also a Bill%26#39;s- Big Elvis has a show that is free. He performs a few times in the afternoon M-F. http://www.bigelvis.biz/



    The Gold Coast has a cheap buffet as does the Orleans. You can also buy liquor cheaply at both hotels.



    Ellis Island (behind Bally%26#39;s -walking distance ) has a $6.99 steak special (off menu).



    Here is a list of some free attractiions although the volcano is not functioning at the moment:



    vegas.com/attractions/freeattractions.html




    I agree with other posters.





    You can also go to Terribles. If you sign up for players club you get 241 coupon for buffet. Breakfast is only $4.99 and has an omlette station and fruit, very good deal.





    Bill%26#39;s margaritas are a good deal at $1.00 plus they have hot dogs for @2.00.





    Hard Rock has off menu deal for steak for for $7.77 at Mr. Lucky%26#39;s.





    El Cortez has steak and shrimp for $7.99 (Fremont Street)





    Ellis Island has cheap steak and eggs breakfast, $5.99 I think.





    Also go to restaurants.com and get gift certificates. We got a $25 one for a cost of $10, then went to Casa Di Amore on Monday night where wine is 1/2 price. We had a bottle of wine, high end entries (veal at $26 each), caesar salad and we got out for $62.00. You could purchase $18.00 entrees and a $35. bottle of wine for pretty cheap -- $36 - $25 = $11 plus $17.50 for wine... Make sure you tip on the whole tab though.




    Also check out cheapovegas.com - lots of good information. The cheapest thing to do is ';stroll the strip'; and check out any properties you%26#39;ve never stayed at. Love strolling through Wynn, Venetian, Bellegio, etc.




    Downtown has all kinds of cheap stuff!! Also, Pennytown has a little snack shop that supposedly has over 30 things on the menu for $1 or less!!








    Casino Royale has the $1.00 margaritas also. They come in strawberry or lime. They are bigger than Bills are and better. We hit there many many times our last trip. Nothing better than a strawberry margarita while walking the strip in over 100 degree heat.




    Most of the 24 hour cafes have some decent special, a lot of them are late night special, but still a good deal to be found.



    I think downtown always has great deals on food, plenty of choices and I have not been disappointed.



    Look for coupons on the ';Whats On'; magazine. They have coupons for food and shows.




    I agree you should book Casa di Amore you can even arrange for a free limo (or towncar) to pick you up if he like cheap things he should love that :)




    As previously mentioned Restaurant.com sells discount certificates for many restaurants. No need to pay $10 for a $25 cert., restaurant.com has codes that knock the price down about 60% further, depending on the time of the month (the later the better). So a $25 cert. can cost as little as $4, and they are always honored.





    One easy way to get the codes is to go to couponmom.com, sign up for free and check at that site for the codes.




    my wife has a friend who people say is fun and cheap

    Seating for the Nathan Burton show?

    Could someone tell me what the seating is like at the theater where Nathan Burton performs? is it just fold up type chairs or actual theater type seats? or do you sit at tables etc.? Anyone been to see his show at the Flamingo?



    Seating for the Nathan Burton show?


    That is a good question. When I go to the website and click on the showroom, nothing comes up. I have two free tickets that are valid through my stay, but I%26#39;m not sure if we will make it. Hopefully, someone out there has seen the show, and will have more information on the showroom.





    Good Luck!



    VegasSue



    Seating for the Nathan Burton show?


    We have 2 free tickets also for next month, but would like to find out what the seating arrangements are, and was the show worth seeing, just thought the show would help break up our slot play for a little while!! lol




    Get comped tickets also, and were thinking that afternoon show at 4pm would get us off the casino floor for at least 90 minutes. LOL




    Okay, so I suppose we are just waiting here for someone that may have an idea of the layout of the showroom, and if the show is worth the time! lol...





    VegasSue




    We have been in the Flamingo Show Room once, about 2 years ago when Society of Seven was performing, back then... it was tables and chairs (up front), I don%26#39;t recall if the rear seating was stadium style or not.





    I thought I had read somewhere that the Showroom had been renovated recently, but maybe I am confused and its the Diamond Lounge that got revamped.




    And, Yes I wish someone would comment on the Show and if its worth the time? LOL





    How long is it, 1 hour or 90 minutes?