Prices going up, up, up

So, last year we had 8 nights in Vegas and stayed off-strip. This cost us 440GBP ($815). 20-28 March, from Manchester UK.

This year we stayed at IP for 7 nights, cost us 510GBP ($950) - 27 Apr - 4 May.

Now I%26#39;m pricing up for another trip later this year (7 nights at IP) and the prices are all higher (even in November). 630GBP ($1165).

I%26#39;ve also looked at prices for next March and they are higher still - whats going on?

Any Brits found any good deals for later this year?

Prices going up, up, up

I think it really depends on how far in advance you book your hotel. I booked mine over 3 months ahead this year and it is way cheaper than last year. The prices now for July have gone up more than $200 for a week stay.

Prices going up, up, up

It also depends on time of year you are going. You went this year at a much more desirable time weather wise. Also, you need to book closer in. Of course hotels are going to charge more this far out. They will only start offering deals when they realize that they are not filling the rooms.

hi roaming roaming,

i booked with expedia at xmas, flight and hotel westgate flamingo bay off strip 9 night%26#39;s 455 GBP. this is for a september holiday, pretty good hey.

Have you tried booking flights and hotels separately? Sometimes you can get a good deal on flights with Delta or American Airways (both from Heathrow, I think). We%26#39;re going end of September, but we booked the flights a long time ago (under 锟斤拷300 each) - we%26#39;re still surfing the hotels, but there are some great deals on the lower graded properties, Sahara, etc.

Good luck!

I have found this year to be really expensive for some reason. I am going the first weekend in November and found the flights had been coming out at 锟斤拷550+ for most of the year, till about 2 weeks ago, when I got a flight for 锟斤拷403.

All I did was keep checking Expedia/Ebookers on a daily basis as in the end they pick up a batch of seats, just got to be on the ball.

You%26#39;re right. I%26#39;ve noticed over the past 6 yrs on average the price has been increasing, especially for hotel rooms. I go twice a yr, usually early aug and for Xmas.

booked for Jan, 5 nights at Sahara which came to 405 GBP per person, (US Air). Have just booked 11 nights end of June at Sahara (Virgin) for 644 GBP. This is an average price for us, we travelled Sept last year and again it was around the 700 mark for 10 nights so we haven%26#39;t noticed a difference. We booked all on the net. Obviously if we stayed at a higher class hotel this would increase the cost.

I really think that all the Brit prices have been hiked up because of the current exchange rate. Think about it...they know you will still go to the States because the pound is so strong against the dollar, and you are still getting a great value holiday. The major companies know what they can get away with and there is probably a high demand for holidays to the US. I know that flights are alot dearer than they were 18 months ago from Uk to US, not so bad the other way though.. funny that...

Because of an American phenomenon called March Madness(the NCAA hoops tourney) combined with a lot of college spring breaks and St Pattys day they can expect to be close to 100% ocupancy. I used to got for the first week of the tourney but it is too much of a hassle. I now go for the final four the first weekend of April. I guarantee that if you come any other time then March you will be happier. The first weekend of the tourney even the Boardwalk was charging more than $500 a night!

OK, so I understand March Madness re: NCAA and Spring Break etc but how come we got 8 nights so cheap in 2004 and now its almost double.

Admittedly we stayed off strip (Key Largo Quality Inn) but even so we all know the IP is not a high end hotel!

The best deal I%26#39;ve found so far is a package holiday from Airtours at around 550 GBP for a week on 5th November but how dead is it likely to be in November?

Vegas show on travel channel

Did anyone watch the show that was on last night on the travel channel, they talked about a place to eat that you could get these huge hot dogs for 1.49 I cant remember the name of the placae would anybody happen to know

thanks

Vegas show on travel channel

I believe it was the Westward Ho.

Vegas show on travel channel

Go to the Orleans and get 2 of the $.75 hot dogs they have by the Sportsbook. They are much better quality. Only available until 6 p.m. or so.

The VERY famous ';HO Dogs';. Garonteed prime grade tube steak. Get em ';all the way'; with onions, chili and cheese for a delightful meal for under two bucks. Chase that bad boy with a 99 cent margarita and you%26#39;ll be in business. That HO dog tastes every bit as good coming up as when it went down. Yummm..

thanks we are staying at the orleans so we might have to try the ones they have

StaunchSteve

That was hilarious.

Thx for the laugh!

HO dogs are like Irish whiskey, goes down smooth, comes up in chunks.

so true vhb.....

Champagne Brunch

Hi, we have only ever been to 1 champagne brunch and that was many years ago at Ceasars. The champagne was sweet sparkling wine and the food was standard buffet fare. Would like to go to one on my next visit, can you recommend any that have %26#39;decent%26#39; champagne and nice food to go with it. Has anyone been to more than 1 so you can compare? Many thanks.

Champagne Brunch

Recommend you try the Mirage ';Cravings'; weekend champagne brunch buffet. I%26#39;m no wine expert, but the champagne tasted fine, and the choices of food are really extensive, very tasty and freshly prepared.

We are very picky about our food and this buffet was excellent on 3 separate occasions.

Weekday buffets did not offer champagne, but it never harms to ask just in case it might be available! The food choice, presentation and service is superb for every meal - breakfast, lunch or dinner. The staff are welcoming and efficient, and the restaurant has a lovely atmosphere. We enjoyed it so much we didn%26#39;t bother to try any others, although I understand that Paris and Alladin offer good buffets too.

Wherever you go, enjoy!

Champagne Brunch

Just remembered - there is a complete listing of all buffets and champagne buffets with comments and ratings at www.lasvegasadvisor.com.

May actually give you too much choice but shows prices and days for all hotels/restaurants.

Go to the website and look down the left hand column for ';Buffets';. Good luck!

Thanks for the info - will do some reading up tonight on the site. Never thought of the Mirage, which I should have done really knowing the class of the hotel. Thanks again.

Try CC Steakhouse for brunch. For $27 you will have a hard time beating the price and quality. Only one I know of with fillet, prime rib, rack of lamb, chicken, fish , and all the champagne you want.

Details please...

Was wondering if I could get some costs for room service at the nugget, average...burger, breakfast, steak. Just wondering if it%26#39;s worth it to avoid the lines at the restaurants. Also, wondering if any of the rooms there have a tub to fit two?(wink, wink) Thanks

Details please...

I assume you are talking Golden Nugget? If so, room service is reasonably priced for lunch and dinner, overpriced for breakfast. My favorite room service food there is NY Strip dinner (about $22), Prime rib dinner ($17), and Five onion soup ($5). Burgers are about $9 or so. I would recommend breakfast at Carson Street Cafe. SKIP The Buffet, it has gone downhill since Steve Wynn sold the place and prices have gone up. As far as the tub goes, you%26#39;d probably have to significantly upgrade to at least the two-room suite and maybe penthouse. The extra $$$ is probably not worth it.

Details please...

Thanks steve..exactly what i was looking for

Single deck blackjack tables???

Are there any casinos on the strip that still offer single-deck blackjack tables?

Single deck blackjack tables???

Most of them do. Just got back yesterday, and i know that NYNY, Aladdin, and Imperial Palace have them. They only pay 6/5 though. I love them because the scare off the people that dont know how to play.

Single deck blackjack tables???

Its BAAaack. Let the games begin.

Why would anybody in his right mind play a 6/5 blackjack game?

The only advantage of BJ is that it can be beaten by card counting, and that non-counters suffer from a house advantage of less than a percent. 6/5 Eliminates that completely and enough people are still flocking to it...

Just a clarification:

If you play a single deck blackjack with 6:5, be ready to add 1.43% to the house advantage.

In a ';real'; single deck game with normal rules, the game is break even if you play basic strategy, and an 8 deck shoe with good rules is 0.43%.

So, by playing 6:5 single-deck you are giving the house 3 times its regular age in those bad ';8'; deck games.

Just for the illustration, that%26#39;s like adding 3 more zeros to a European roulette... Would you play that game ?

Wynn had them with only $10.00 minimum in the mornings. They only pay 6/5 on blackjack like the others.

I lost $400 playing multi deck last week. I won $800 playing single deck. Me like single deck.

Slpgh is right. A 6:5 game is a rip-off. But because people who don%26#39;t understand (I almost used a disparaging term for such people) are willing to play such 6:5 games, the casinos are happy to establish those 6:5 games. The casinos love idiots! Who ruin it for the rest of us!

You should never play 6:5 Blackjack. If you do, you are getting ripped off, and you are enabling the casinos to rip the rest of us off.

Trupru

That%26#39;s the luck of the draw.

I agree with Mikes45.

6:5 is a ripoff.

Yeah, you can win at either game. It%26#39;s called luck. But if you play basic stategy you%26#39;re better off on a 3:2 multideck game.

Let us know if you win again on 6:5. I%26#39;d be interested.

Unca Mike

I am appreciative to those that responded with good advice. wise2that????????

Single deck does give you worse odds, but you with multi deck your odds are at best only if you have a full table with everyone playing basic strategy. As soon as you have people staying on 16 (which is everyones right to do as they choose), and not playing basic strategy, then your odds get worse. Most newbies stay aways from single deck because they dont know what to do if they have to hold there cards, so you typically get people who seem to know what they are doing.

Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire?

My husband and I and another couple will be in Vegas for 10 days in July. In your humble opinions, what is a better daytrip, Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire? The guys are maybe interested in touring ghost towns nearby as well, can any of you recommend anything good that will thrill and entertain them so us girls can maybe get some shopping time in? I will also tell you that we are driving up in our own SUV, and so are not reliant on taking a bus or other means of tour. Thank you all in advance for your opinions, I can%26#39;t tell you how informative I find all of you!

Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire?

You%26#39;ll have plenty of time to see both. Red Rock is a two hour trip max unless you do some hiking, which in July is not pleasant. Valley of Fire has FAR greater scenery and is a half day trip or so. Drive up the Interstate and back along the west side of Lake Mead. You can also include Hoover Dam in this trip for a full day trip. Valley of Fire is the BEST day trip anywhere around Las Vegas. For ';ghost towns'; drive out to Death Valley to Rhyolite. Thats another good ';day trip'; thru Death Valley to Baker, CA. and back. Baker has the World%26#39;s Tallest Thermometer and you might see 120 degrees in July. Another good ghost town is in Oatman, AZ. about 2 1/2 hours southeast of Las Vegas. Go thru Laughlin or Kingman to get there.

Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire?

Red Rock is only 17 miles west of the strip while Valley of Fire is farther but still an easy afternoon drive.

If the guys are interested in Star Trek then send then off to the Hilton (after getting 1/2 price tickets at Tix4tonight) to see the Star Trek attraction there. That should take up a few hours if they take in both rides.

I think there are some places that give the history of Las Vegas connection with atomic bomb development and testing. They could also see if the Petty Driving School is available for a ride along in a race car at 200+mph (at the Vegas Race track).

Safety Warning::: take 3 or 4 jugs of water just in case. july is a dangerous month out there for heat stress.

Red Rock Canyon is a good, early morning trip to take. u get the morning sun on the sides of the mountains, no dark shadows. Valley of fire is best in the afternoon, when the sun will shine on the rocks and enhance the colors. it will be very hot and dry, drink plenty of water, NOT beer.

Valley of Fire will take longer, but there%26#39;s no shopping anywhere near. In Overton which is a little north you can check out the Lost City Museum which I%26#39;ve never been to but have heard it%26#39;s kind of neat, it%26#39;s a town that was flooded when they built the Hoover Dam. If you want shopping and an experience drive out to Primm to the outlet mall, but drop the guys off in Sandy Valley, which consists of about 15 trailers and 2 bars on a dirt road about 5 miles west of Jean (about halfway between Vegas %26amp; Primm). It%26#39;s the sort of place that%26#39;s straight out of Deliverance.

I%26#39;ve been to both, and I think the trails are marked better at Red Rock. I liked the varying scenery at Red Rock - I actually saw plants other than cacti. Valley of Fire does have some neat art on the cliffs, though. Overall, I%26#39;d vote for Red Rock.

You can do both in one day. The Valley is about 60 miles away but on a 75 MPH highway. Both are excellent! There are picnic benches in both places. Bring a drink and sandwiches with you.

Agree with the warning about heat stress and 3 or 4 jugs of water...if it were me, here in July....I%26#39;d skip Valley of Fire....Red Rock is close to the city, if you go to spring mountain ranch there are shade trees at least, and it will wipe you out enough for one day. Personally, in July, I don%26#39;t think I

%26#39;d go to either..or I%26#39;d even walk the strip...I%26#39;d stay in an air conditioned hotel or at the pool as much as possible !

';Personally, in July, I don%26#39;t think I

%26#39;d go to either..or I%26#39;d even walk the strip...I%26#39;d stay in an air conditioned hotel or at the pool as much as possible !';

I%26#39;m guessing their car has air conditioning.

The car might have A/C, but why would you want to go to either of these places and just sit in the car? Also, touring ghost towns was mentioned, and only driving through wouldn%26#39;t be much of a ';tour.';

Thank you all for your replies. Being Canadians, we are not too worried about the extreme weather temperatures... we have been to Vegas when it was 110 F., (as well as having extreme heat waves in our own province) and we have lived through -40 F for weeks on end as well. Looking forward to the heat, as I get so few weeks in the year where I can be warm as compared to so many months of the year trying to GET warm... but thank you for the concern, we are aware of the precautions we need to take!

wholesale cosmetics

Vegas first week in June

Who all will be there next week we arrive on monday May 30th

which is also our daughters 21st birthday

Vegas first week in June

get there the day before you for a week at the flamingo.

Vegas first week in June

I%26#39;ll be there June 2nd, for my brothers wedding and my anniversary.

Leaving tomorrow. Will return 6/7.

Ahhhh- have a GREAT time celebrating your daughter%26#39;s 21st! My younger son won%26#39;t be 21 until next March but he is already planning on having mom and dad help him celebrate it in Vegas during his Spring break. My older son seems to think he will go a bit overboard in Vegas with the gambling in Vegas because when he and I go to Atlantic City he enjoys it just a bit too much. It is one thing to ';fund'; him some play money on an overnight trip to AC if he is losing, but I can%26#39;t do it for 5 days if he is on a losing streak!! LOL

Hubby and I will arrive in Vegas on June 7th for 5 nights. I am counting the days........ Jan

http://www.vegas.com/

try this website

rooms @ Rio

Staying at the Rio in July. Which tower Ipanema or Masquerade should I ask for? Room quality and casino floor proximity are key.

rooms @ Rio

Ipanema is the old tower. If you want to be near the casino with the Masquerade in the sky you will want to be in Masquerade.

I found that although Masquerade tower left something to be desired for rooms for non-Diamond members (we had about 30 people--many diamond members). Diamond members--aka high rollers--had better rooms. The others that were in Masquerade still had rooms that left a lot to be desired.

Ipanema towers were old and shabby even the upgraded room I had after issues with the original room. Frayed carpets in the upgraded room replaced the worn out bath tub and burning smell in the original room.

bellagio secrets

we are staying at the bellagio at the end of the month (middle of the week) any suggestions on getting the best for our money. free upgrades? best spa? any help will be great

bellagio secrets

Make sure you join the players club and get line passes for the cafe and buffet- it will save you a lot of time. I was able to upgrade for $25 a night to a fountain view room- it was worth it. Check out the Fontana Lounge and skip Caramel. It a great hotel- enjoy and write a trip report when you get back.

bellagio secrets

Can you get a line pass at the front desk or do you need a players card ?

I have heard of people getting them from the front desk but I%26#39;ve always gone to the players club desk. They will ask you if you are staying at the hotel and then ask for your ID and how many people are in your party and how long you are staying.

It definently worth getting because the line at the cafe will stretch out into the conservatory after about 8:30am.

is player%26#39;s club for gamblers only? what benefits does it have?

i am going to vegas ina week and won%26#39;t gamble but i have a suite at the bellagio. i ll be staying for 3 nights, any recommendations for me? thanks :)

Basar, the ';players card'; is a card that keeps track of how much gambling you do. If you are playing the slot machines, you insert it into the machine and it adds up points for how much money you spend and how much time you are gambling.

if the buffett line is long, go in the exit and tell them ur sitting at the bar. sit at the bar and the bartender takes care of your bills there

thanks for the help guys. if you remember anything else please let me know. i will make sure to get a players card. can you get them for other casinos?

Yes you can and should get them from other casino%26#39;s so you can get on their mailing list.

Beacon,That%26#39;s a good idea about the exit line and sitting at the bar inside the cafe- I didn%26#39;t know if people just walked in or what.

I would suggest visiting the spa- even if you don%26#39;t get a treatment, which are very expensive! My husband and I used the workout facilities (top notch!), which cost $25 a person ,but gives you access to the spa locker rooms. You are given a robe and slippers and can use the whirlpools, sauna and steam room- all of which are beautiful and soooo relaxing! The locker rooms are wonderful- super thick, fluffy towels, chilled washcloths, all the personal items you could possibly need and lots of fresh fruit and juices/teas. The showers are the best part- 3 different shower heads and the lights change colors as you shower! After working out, we would spend a couple hours in the spa- much cheaper than getting a treatment and just as relaxing if you ask me! We went everyday during our stay!

Don%26#39;t miss ';O';. Last summer I had agreat dinner at FIX.

Have a great time.

Memorial Weekend

We are going to vegas memorial weekend until june 2nd and was wondering if there was anything special going on for the holiday. Thanks

Memorial Weekend

Nothing out of the ordinary for Las Vegas - just more crowded

Memorial Weekend

Whats up Heather,

Hope to see ya down there, welll be down there from NYC for the memorial weekend.

aim shaqdeep

Whats up Heather,

Hope to see ya down there, welll be down there from NYC for the memorial weekend.

aim shaqdeep

Best slot club gifts when you sign up???

Which casinos on the strip have the best slot-club rewards? I am really interested if any offer free slot pulls, gifts,etc. just for signing up?

Best slot club gifts when you sign up???

Do you like key chains and mini bungee cords? If so, sign up for each and every casinos slot/players club. Sign up for them more than once, see how many you can collect before security is called to toss you from the casino.

Best slot club gifts when you sign up???

Oh my gosh...now I am really starting to believe people when they say this dude is Tim. Gimme a break with all these dumb questions. Crimeny!

One place was giving away a deliverance swamp tour package to West Virginia if you hit 3 gators on the promo machine. Another was a autographed book by T. Stevens about how to troll a forum into complete submission. I think that one was published by the S.R. Press and came with an order of spicy hot wings.

cali? just realizing it%26#39;s trollboy? You must learn to be more cynical. I exposed the little toady days ago. Your too nice.

Well at first I was trying hard to give him the benefit of the doubt. But then said to myself, ';is this guy really that stupid?

How is this a dumb question?

Yes he is

Blackjack

your reply%26#39;s are a scream! I realy enjoy this..am finaly figuring out what a troll is but cant figure out the why???

Hey troll boy, If you would like some free crap give me your address, Next time I clean out my kids toy box I%26#39;ll save all of the nice rewards that are on the bottom and mail em to ya. Free!!!!

Horse Racing Betting Game - Where can I play?

This is really sad but my favourite game in the casino is that one where around ten people sit and bet on plastic little horses, and you have to guess the combination of the first two horses.

I know the MGM have this game, I%26#39;m sure I played at Luxor with camels. Caesars had it about 5 years ago. Does anyone know of any other hotel that has this game.

I think this game originates from the 60s, so when they break down they just scrap em, as they do not have the parts to fix them.

Many thanks

Horse Racing Betting Game - Where can I play?

I believe the Excalibur.

Horse Racing Betting Game - Where can I play?

Frontier %26amp; Sahara (with camels)

Excellent guys, thanks for your help.

Riviera

THAT IS SAD!!!

That game is ABSOLUTELY SILLY !!!!

And I confess ... I love it! It is so much fun.

I saw it for the first time last week in Casino de Montreal. At first we just made fun of it ... but we watched for a few minutes and started getting really into it. Soon we were hooked.

It was $0.25 minimum play. We played $0.50 at a time and had a blast. We were there for a long time.

I can%26#39;t wait for the next rainy weekend so that I can get back up to Montreal to play!

wholesale cosmetics

comps

hi, coming to vegas in 21 days. ill be playing 25/50 blackjack hands. who gives the best comps and what will i expect to recieve. thanks david.

comps

Completely depends on where you are staying/playing at. If you stay at one of the lower priced casinos $50 per hand @ four hours will get you one night rent free. While other casinos that level will not even be noticed.

Most use a formula that works something like this. If your average minimum bet is $100 per hand and you play for 4-hours, you get $100 in comps. So if you are in a $25 per night hotel and play $100 per hand you get RFB. IF you are at Wynn or Bellagio, you will not even be noticed.

comps

thanks vegas. ican see me playing upto 100 dollar hands eventually lol.

Question, if you play average $100.00 per hand at an lower end hotel, do you get your room, food %26amp; bev comps or do you have to use your accumulated comp dollar to pay for your charges?

hi crouching im trying to find out the same as you. im taking 8000 dollars with me to vegas. i want to know say i spend 2000 dollars in 2 or 3 days what will i get if anything.

use your money wisely. spend 6000 dollars to get a free night and a dinner. FOOLISH. pay as u go, enjoy, forget

PERFORMANCE PRESSURE. if u want to tell ur friends u got comped, lie with a smile.

jackpot i aint going there for comps. im going to party til i got no cash left or ive won some. would be nice though of the hotel to gimme summit back if i decide to blow the lot.

oh and the first thing im gonna do is put 500 dollars on the table of war and see if my luck is in.

Imperial Palace's Hawaiian Luau

Has anyone every gone to the Hawaiian Luau at the Imperial Palace? I plan on staying there in July but I%26#39;m not sure if the Luau would be worth my money. Also, I know that the food at the buffet is aweful, is the food at the Luau any better????

Imperial Palace's Hawaiian Luau

According to those that have posted here before. The luau is NOT worth the money. The food is bland and the drinks are weak. USe the search function for ';Luau Imperial'; and you%26#39;ll get the info.

Imperial Palace's Hawaiian Luau

We attended the Luau a couple of years ago and feel we should have spent the money on something else. But to each his own, our friends enjoyed it.

somone mentioned a luau at the flamingo, anyone have info??

wondering the same w/ the luau @ flamingo. It%26#39;s about $20 more than imperor%26#39;s luau.. so is it.. better?

SAVE your money. been there---done that

What to wear and weather in Las Vegas

My husband and I are going to Las VEgas the beginning of June - what shall we bring to wear ? shorts, does it still get chilly at night (was there in November a few years ago, and yes, it did get quite chilly).

The weather, I believe will be hot and partly sunny -

What to wear and weather in Las Vegas

Yesterday the high was 101-105 all depends on who you asked, the low was 78. I think unless you%26#39;re going to spend all day in an air conditioned casino, shorts and a comfortable top will be the way to go day or night. Unless you%26#39;ll be dining at a really nice restaurant or hitting some of the high priced shows you can leave all your fancy clothes at home.

What to wear and weather in Las Vegas

It will be hot at the beginning of June....triple digits. It doesn%26#39;t get chilly at night at all, but it can definitely be chilly inside the casinos, so you may want to bring a light sweater. I never do because I don%26#39;t like carrying it, but that%26#39;s a personal choice.

Also, as a side note, if that is your e-mail address I would remove that immediately if I were you.

Good luck!!

Weather is usually very hot but las vegas has low humidity so vegas is pretty comfortable even in summer months.

Would pack shorts,capris,and nice khaki pants for evening dinner

or a casual skirt. Comfortable Shoes are most important since you will probably be walking alot. Sandals are good if going next door or not walking very far. Men usually wear dress shorts and short sleeve shirts with collar. I found that sometimes my hair was acting up so last trip I took a really good shampoo and conditioner

and hair looked good (finesse shampoo with moisturizer) since vegas is very dry helped hair not to be dry. Restaurants can be alittle chilly so would take a cardigan or light sweater just in case.

If you have a dome like mine, bring plenty of sunscreen, and remember to put it on 30 minutes before you go in the sun. It does the most good then.

It is so hot during the day it can actually take your breath away until you adjust to the climate. At night it is still very warm and you don%26#39;t need a sweater unless you are indoors.

Mirage - Pool view or Volcano view?

For anyone who%26#39;s stayed there, can you tell me what are the advantages and disadvantages of both please?

Mirage - Pool view or Volcano view?

I stayed at the Mirage last year(October)and received a free upgrade for a Volcano view room. Was it beautiful-Yes!!! Would I pay extra for it NO!!!. I watched it twice during my 3 nights.

In all reality how much time is spent in your room in Vegas? Ane the time you are in your room how much time is spent looking out the window?

My advice. If you can get a free upgrade take it otherwise don%26#39;t pay extra for it.

Hope you have a great time.

Mirage - Pool view or Volcano view?

if you stay at mirage, my choice is way up high, facing the morning sunrise. pool and volcano can be seen at street level. a morning sunrise is priceless. especially with a big cup of coffee.

help

hi, is it worth buying v.i.p tickets for clubs on ebay. also what do i get for the ticket is it just entry or other.

help

I%26#39;d search the forum (there is a box on the main thread listing page on the upper righ) for VIP club, or ebay, or the like. Seems that most have received what they paid for, but sometimes a VIP only gets you into a better hour long line than the ';have no chance of gettting in'; longer line. There has also been talk on some of the threads about hosts that you can ';hire'; that will take you around to the clubs and help you get in. I have heard BAD things about buying VIP passes from cabbies. Hope this helps-I think the searching will get you to the relevant threads. Good Luck!

help

This may be my age talking/typing but may I ask what is the big attraction with these ';clubs'; that people are willing to wait in line for hours or pay through the nose to get into? I am not being sarcastic and am genuinely curious. Thanks

Toffo, I,ve been over a few times and would say pick a club a night %26amp; before you go it go the bars near by. A real good bar is the Carnival Court at Harrah%26#39;s. A real good laugh, girls galore and mad goings on.

Have read a few of your posts and notice you are goin gambling big, split your money into the number of days you are there. Only spend your amount per day, meaning you dont do your tats in first day!

dont do ur tats made me laugh. cheers for your advice thats what i thought about doing. 750 dollars aday forgambling and drink should be enough hopefully.

Oh note that %26#39;No-doze%26#39; is far better than our Pro-Plus. Available from most shops.

Oh note that %26#39;No-doze%26#39; is far better than our Pro-Plus. Available from most shops.

hahaha i dont need it. was in vegas last year and wasnt sleeping til 5 in the morning. back up at 9 and down the pool. think its the air they pump in the vents that keep you awake.

That sounds about the right sleeping pattern. Sometimes go straight thru if a footy game is on though as they start at 7am. If your there when a game is on, you want the Crown and Anchor. I,m over next the first weekend in October, cant wait.

yeah i looked up that pub about 1 week ago. trying to decide which hotel to stay in for the last 3 days. caesars, wynn or palms. just finished with my girl thats why im going crazy when i get there. im off on june 14th.

Tex-Mex restaurant near strip.

Is there a good tex-mex restaurant on or near the strip? I would prefer not to go to a chain. All suggestions welcome.

Tex-Mex restaurant near strip.

Ztejas on paradise was pretty good.

Tex-Mex restaurant near strip.

Try Dallas, San Antonio, or Houton for Tex-Mex, LV has authentic mexican food. Don Miguels in the Orleans, and Lindo Michoacan are the two best in town IMO.

Thanks. What I%26#39;m looking for is a good mex restaurant on or near the strip.

You won%26#39;t find ANY Tex-Mex worth a darn in Las Vegas. Lindo Michoacan is the best Mexican place and Garduno%26#39;s is pretty good New Mexican (green chiles and such). You%26#39;re coming all the way from Daytona, a few more miles ';off'; the strip shouldn%26#39;t be a big deal if you want the best food.

ZTEJAS on paradise is the closest u will come to tex-mex, if their menu is the same as the place in AUSTIN%26lt; TEXAS. west of EL PASO the food is different. they have a web site, call them and ask. ill try the place at the ORLEANS in june.

wholesale cosmetics

MGM or mandaly bay?

I am already booked at MGM, but thinking about staying at MB instead. Thoughts?

MGM or mandaly bay?

MB is better on all counts pretty much (layout, facilities, rooms, casino, crowd, etc..) MGM%26#39;s dining is much improved, but that might be its only advantage over MB.

If price is a non-factor in your comparison, go with MB.

MGM or mandaly bay?

MB is far superior to MGM in every way is except number of hotel rooms. MGM still feel like the 1990%26#39;s and MB feels up to date. It is worth every penny of the difference in cost.

Why all the knocks on MGM? I%26#39;ve stayed at both and I had a great time at both. They%26#39;re both beautiful hotels. MB might be more upscale (if you%26#39;re into that), but MGM is a better location.

I wouldn%26#39;t say anyone is knocking MGM, it%26#39;s a decent place. It just doesn%26#39;t compare to a place like MB when you put it head to head on the basic categories (rooms, service, etc...)

MGM Location might be a *little* better than MB, but when you factor in the loooong walk you will have from your room to the elevator at MGM, it%26#39;s probably a wash.

Anyone who has stayed at both want to chime in?

I have never stayed @ MGM but have stayed at MB. Cannot say enough good things about it from the rooms, layout, pool, food, dealers, etc......priced high but not much more than MGM for what you get.

the price difference is only $55 for the enitre stay. i am not too worried about that.

i do like that you can check in at the airport for MGM, but we%26#39;re going Midweek, so i am not too worried about that.

I have been to vegas 3 other times and have stayed at Riveria ( did not like it) , Ceasars ( nice) and the mirage ( loved it)

I am really looking for a nice room and a nice pool since this is where we plan to spend most of our time!

Thanks for the advice so far.

I guess I got lucky at MGM - there was no loooong walk to the elevator from the room- it was maybe 30 feet, one of the 1st rooms in the hallway. I guess if you got stuck way at the end that might have its downs. I also got a free upgrade to a Bungalow Queen Suite, so the rooms were beautiful. Not the plasma tv%26#39;s you%26#39;ll find in MB, but I was really only in the room to sleep and shower. If you%26#39;re going to the pool a lot - it%26#39;s still a toss up. Both have many pools, but MB does have the ';beach'; and a wave pool. I don%26#39;t think you can go wrong w/ either hotel.

I%26#39;ve stayed at both, and loved both. Mandalay Bay is by far the nicer of the two. And if you%26#39;re staying in the summer time, I%26#39;d definitely recommend MB due to their pool. I also really like MBs sportsbook and Poker Room. MGMs location is a little bit better.

Cant go wrong at either place....just depends on what you%26#39;re wanting out of your hotel.

all the different types of rollercoasters in vegas

was reading a magazine and saw an article on Insanity @ the stratosphere, just wondering has anyone gone on this yet, it goes OVER the top of the tower so your hanging and nothing but a 400 ft drop between you and the strip!

sounds a bit crazy, i was watching a program and it showed the different types in vegas, you have speed, the ride, then some big dome with a load of diffferent rides in it!

sounds like plenty to do over there during the day.

all the different types of rollercoasters in vegas

Dougs, my daughter and neice are looking forward to the Manhatten Express at NYNY. Not so much the stratosphere, from what I%26#39;ve heard, it sounds pricey (price to get up there, price to ride). Also, I heard someone recently got stuck on Insanity and had to be rescued. NO WAY am I letting those girls on that.

all the different types of rollercoasters in vegas

They did have a problem with Insanity a month ago, the problem has been repaired. The machine is supposed to refuse to operate when the wind is too strong. What happened was 2 girls were on it, it swung out into the operating position, the wind got stronger and then it shut down. Leaving them dangling 900 feet (Not 400) over the strip for 90 minutes. The rides at the Stratosphere, Circus Circus and Sahara can be ridden all day by buying the wrist band at each hotel. Wristbands are $30 and under.

VM, those girls freaked when they locked the keys in the car at the gas station. I can%26#39;t imagine what would happen if they got stuck on that ride dangling over the edge. Is there enought to ride at CC Dome to warrant an all day wrist band?

The coaster at NYNY is fun - it travels all the way around the outside of the building. However, it is a bit of a bone-shaker and not nearly as smooth as some of the rides I%26#39;ve been on in Floriday. You can view a video of it on the NYNY website. Can%26#39;t remember how much it costs (although you get a second ride for half price - if you can stand it!)

I have coupons for the MH Express too. I don%26#39;t remember how much, I think like $5 off.

thanks for the info on insanity, i definetely think i am gonna avoid that one, i cant imagine danglihg 900 feet for 90 mins, they must have got some sort of compensation from them, they would have to!!

Dougs - I think I am following you around!

My dad went on that ride at Stratosphere and friggin loved it! He said could easily stay on it all day, as it%26#39;s not one of these that makes you feel sick or anything.

Just cos it broke down once - don%26#39;t be such a scaredy cat! I think its been open for about 2 years now. once or twice in 730 days and probably thousands of actual %26#39;rides%26#39; each day. The chances of it breaking down are pretty slim!

Go to the stratosphere website. You can watch a video of it...if you%26#39;re not too scared! lol ;)

Jules,

Were those the ones that were freaking because the top was down on the convertible and it was starting to rain? Or the ones that freaked because their friend was in the car and they thought she%26#39;d suffocate?

There are at least 3 rides in the Adventuredome. A rollercoaster, log ride and one ride theta spins you upside down a lot.

http://www.adventuredome.com/index2.php Is the website. See for yourself if it%26#39;s worth the money for you and yours.

CityChik,

Insanity has only been open 2 months.

citychick, i will go on it if you hold my hand lol

i was watching las vegas uncovered last night and it showed the rollercoaster on top of the stratosphere which goes around it, but to be honest it didnt look all that hot, maybe it was just how it was filmed but certainly didnt look like it would give you a rush or anything!

No the roller coaster on top of the Strat isn%26#39;t thrilling, other than the fact you%26#39;re so high up with such fantastic views. It basically just goes round and round and undulates a bit.

Deal on Travelzoo for Venetian $100 a night

see below

Las Vegas

Travel dates: Select dates May-Sept.

Top 20 deal - sells out quickly!

The AAA 4-Diamond Venetian is celebrating the Las Vegas Centennial with an unbelievable $100 special on its huge Luxury Suites. This is the best deal we%26#39;ve seen from them in two years!

This special is valid for select midweek (Sun.-Thurs.) summer dates - additional midweek dates are available for $149. Plus, we were shocked to see their weekend dates priced at $199 per night (reg. $300-$400)! You must book by May 24.

$100/nt:

May 30-31; June 1; July 4-7, 10, 14, 20-21, 31; Aug. 1, 18, 31; Sept. 1, 5-6

$149/nt:

May 19, 25-26; June 6-7, 12, 16, 19, 26, 30; July 17-19, 24, 28; Aug. 8-11, 21-25; Sept. 11

$199/nt weekends:

June 17; July 1, 8-9, 15, 22, 30; Aug. 12, 19-20, 26; Sept. 2, 9-10

To Book:

Call the Venetian at 1-866-403-8046 and mention rate code GOZOO7D. Or, click here to see a rate calendar and to book online

Deal on Travelzoo for Venetian $100 a night

OMG.. thanks! Maybe I should switch hotels!!

Dinner at SW Steakhouse

We arrived at 7:20 for a 7:30 reservation and were seated right away at a perfect table with view of the lake and waterfall. I had requested a view table when I made the reservation 2 weeks prior. The menu was quite extensive with plenty of choices for those who may not want steak. We each ordered a Caesar salad to start. My wife chose the filet and I had the bone in rib eye. We shared a potato dish. Salads were delivered so fast that it worried me we were going to be rushed through dinner, however service from that point on was perfectly paced. The chef walked through greeting customers, I recognized him from the website. From the looks of his slightly soiled uniform he was indeed cooking in the kitchen as Steve Wynn promised! The dessert menu seemed to be missing some obvious choices but we each enjoyed our selections.

The overall service and quality of food was great.

About $195.00 for two including tip without drinks and wine.

I would definitely dine there again.

Dinner at SW Steakhouse

';About $195.00 for two including tip without drinks and wine.

I would definitely dine there again';.

Why?

Dinner at SW Steakhouse

Thanks Iknow,

What did you have for dessert?

what did you think was missing?

Were there a lot of view tables available? Would they be able atoaccomodate a party of 8 with a view?

Appetizers?

You didn%26#39;t have wine %26amp; drinks or just not included in the price?

Was there any live entertainment or background music?

Do they have a lounge, with a view?

Thanks Again,

jimimac,

Yes, there were plenty of view tables, one with a party of about 10 near us. There is a large patio that blends right into the main restaurant with about a 30 foot wide floor to cieling door that was open durring our dinner but surely would be colsed during the HOT summer temps.

I guess the main thing missing was Creme Brulet for desert, can%26#39;t really remember all the choices now. I had ';Cookies with an ice cold shot of milk';, consisted of an assortment of 8 small cookies and a 1/2 glass COLD milk ;) $10, yes a little steep.

Yes, there were some good looking appetizers, steak tartar was recomended, didn%26#39;t try it.

Yes they have a bar/lounge area.

Overheard the maitre d telling someone they were sold out for the night. I made our reservations throught the concierge 2 weeks in advance.

My wife had a glass of merlot, just San Pelagrino for me.

OWA,

I didn%26#39;t say it was a deal, We thouroughly enjoyed the dinner and I%26#39;m not complaining about the price. I posted it for information on this site. As I said, I will dine there again. I%26#39;m not a local like you and don%26#39;t go on vacation to search out every deal in town.

Wynn is a 1st class resort and I expect to pay more at the nicer places.

OWA: You are right on...I need to get wise of the ';How to make up a trip report';..deal....kinda makes one think of the ';going to Vegas with Clients and we need the most expensive dining, rooms, limos, etc'; poster ...Sorry

you did not pay for dinner, u paid the rent check for the restaurant. too each his own. If the chef was visiting the tables, who was cooking these pricey steaks? all beef used in vegas is classified the same, grade, quality.

Maybe, but you would have to make up the visit and trip report...some people actually GO to Vegas!!!

iknowvegas...I agree with you...you get what you pay for. I see all these posts with people trying to look for bargains and comped food and coupons...and it makes me wonder...are they on vacation!?!?...I don%26#39;t understand why anyone would go to a place like Vegas and think they%26#39;re not going to spend money...I don%26#39;t even do that at home...why should I do that on vacation!!!???

Best Buffet for Breakfast/Brunch & Dinner ?

Hi

We will probably go to 1 buffet for breakfast/brunch (11ish) and one for dinner?

Which buffets would you recommend for each %26amp; how much do they cost?

Price doesn%26#39;t matter as long a the food is good.

Thanks in advance

Clare

Best Buffet for Breakfast/Brunch %26amp; Dinner ?

All things considered, I would go to the ';Le Village Buffet'; at the Paris Hotel/Casino. (Cost: About $12 breakfast/dinner $20 ...approximate price.)

Best Buffet for Breakfast/Brunch %26amp; Dinner ?

Just returned (5/6) and found the MGM buffet, not as good as in the past. If your just looking for an ';all American'; buffet it will do. However, the real treat is at the Paris, breakfast, lunch and especially dinner. But slowly walk through the whole thing before grabbing a plate!

clarelw,

One of the best sites this forum has passed on is

www.lasvegasadvisor.com

Click on the buffets (on the left) and it will show eveything the city has to offer.

Also what is nice is it has the price, the location (what casino it is in) and the rating. I don%26#39;t know who did the rating but it is very detailed.

Hope this helps.

Breakfast: Mandalay Bay

Dinner: Rio Carnival Buffet

I just got back and I highly recommend the Bellagio buffet. I went for lunch and the food was delicious. Plenty of variety and high quality. It was $17.95 for lunch and $25.95 for dinner if I remember right. If I had more time I would have gone there for dinner also. I had tried Harrahs lunch buffet a couple of days before and it was crap - hardly ate a thing - low quality, dried out food.

Once you pick a buffet for breakfast, make sure you check the hours that it runs. If you are planning on going at 11am, you might find that the lunch buffet (and lunch pricing) has started already. The lasvegasadvisor website has detailed information on buffet hours.

Mandalay Bay for breakfast buffet. YUM!

Clear as mud huh? Fact is you will never get a straight answer on buffets or restaurants.

Breakfast is pretty standard stuff. Price for breakfast buffet ranges from $5 to $12 for us ham and eggers. Best value is at Orleans, you get cooked to order eggs all the regular stuff, lots of fresh fruit, plus a few ethnic varieties. If crepes are your thing go to the high-end scale at Paris.

Dinner buffets you will get a wider range of recommendations. Best value for quality and selection is again Orleans. From there Rio Carnival is good (voted best by locals), other notables are Alladin, Paris, and Bellagio (meat lovers). For seafood, Rio Seafood Village is the best and most expensive in town.

Good luck figuring it out.

I just returned from Wynn. We had 1 breakfast and 1 lunch at ';The Buffet';. Both were excellent, on par with Bellagio.

I htink the prices were 14.95 for breakfast and 19.95 for lunch.

We just returned last week from a great stay at the Mirage - their buffet is terrific. There is so much choice you could just sit there all day and eat. We had some picky eaters in our group and even they couldn%26#39;t find fault!

Weekends there is a brunch buffet with champagne - I think it was around $22 and all the food was just fantastic. The rest of the week I think breakfast was around $20 and dinner was a bit more. The same high standard and masses of choice.

Cannot recommend this buffet highly enough - we loved it. Pleasant service, bright surroundings and superb food! And the rest of the hotel is terrific as well!! We loved it so much we are going back in October.

Paris for brunch on the weekend?

Planning on eating brunch on eirther Sat. or Sun during our trip at the Paris. BF hates almost all breakfast foods. My question is this.... Can he get quality lunch foods at the Paris for brunch and I get my fav breakfast items as well???? His favorite is Tri tip and potatoes, salad, maybe a few deserts. I was hoping the Paris brunch would satisfy both our cravings?

Paris for brunch on the weekend?

You%26#39;ll satisfy both ends...the breakfast items are expansive...the standard eggs, bacon, sausage, french toast, waffles, pancakes, they have an omelette station, a crepe station, ....for him..they have salads in the center...a carving station, grilling station, beef stews, veal, lamb, etc.etc..

Lots of selection...the Paris is my personal favorite. Get there early...the lines are loonnngggg

wholesale cosmetics

message to V-Happy

my email is jenks1@cox.net. If you could sned 2 coupons that would be great . Thanks

message to V-Happy

Very bad idea posting your email on the forum, have I got a disease and Spam attack sandwich for you. Just kidding, but not very smart of you.

front of line passes from vegas.com

has anyone used these for nightclubs? do they work ok? thinking of going to the voodoo lounge

front of line passes from vegas.com

i%26#39;ve used vegas.com to get into rain - didn%26#39;t have a problem at all... was able to bypass the lines, etc...

however, if want to go to voodoo lounge, the rio has their own guestlist - go to:

http://www.riovegasnights.com/index3.cfm#

click on the vip section, and you fill it out, choose voodoo lounge, and they%26#39;ll send you an email with all the info... should save you the $$ that vegas.com is going to charge you....

Trip Review 5/18-5/21

Just got back from Vegas Baby!! Had great weather, high 90%26#39;s.

We flew Southwest Airlines from Manchester NH. The airline staff was somewhat comical, but we did not care for the open seating plan. Other than a long flight, it was a nice direct non-stop flight. We stayed at the Flamingo, and did the airport checkin. For an extra $20/night we upgraded to a higher floor with a nice view. Well worth the $$ Room 25106. Looking right out at Ceasers, and we could see the Bellagio water show. First we grabbed some grub at Jimmy Buffets Margaritaville. It was as good as any other JBM, very lively. Especially in evening on outdoor patio. We tried the monorail to go to CC Steakhouse, however broke down at harrah%26#39;s. Took a cab from there. Cab service is very friendly. Not like NYC or Boston. CC Steakhouse was excellent. We had petite filets, garlic mashed potatoes, and a nice bottle of wine the check came to about $100. Tried the Flamingo breakfast Buffet, I didn%26#39;t care for it, but the boyfriend thought it was good. I am not a buffet person. Flamingo pool was pretty nice, however must get to pool early. People hold chairs for others, and themselves. If you do not get there early, you will be sitting in the shade. THe nice thing is the ';chair security'; does come by after 30 or longer to remove towels, shoes, etc. of these chairs that have been held by people still sleeping, eating or gambling. Drink service at the pool was very good. Thursday we rode Monorail to Sahara and then caught cab to Freemont St. Dinner at Lillie Langtrys was excellent. We had the Scallops. The freemont St Experience was nice, but other than walking under the sizzling neon lights and looking at the vendor carts I did not find anything more interesting to do. Did not find any loose slots downtown. Friday afternoon we visited Hart and Huntington at the Palms. Excellent tattoo staff. The Palms was very lively, and I thought the VP at the bar was very generous. We tried stratosphere rides Friday, however they were closed due to strong breeze. Monorail stop at Sahara is a little more of a hike than I anticipated to go to Stratosphere. I did like the Monorail when it was working. Had dinner Friday night at Nascar Cafe. Would not recommend that to my dog!! Sevice, food was one of the worst! Gambling at the Flamingo was okay...nothing special. So needless to say the only thing we came home with is Melanoma and Tattoos.

Trip Review 5/18-5/21

Thanks for the report. Sounds like using the pool area for these places is a real pain in the rear but at least they have someone minding the chairs.

Also sounds like Downtown is no great shakes either , I have yet to hear a compelling reason to go down there.

How were the rooms in the Flamingo?

Trip Review 5/18-5/21

I thought the rooms at the Flamingo were pretty average. We had a king bed, couple chairs with a coffee table, writing desk, and TV armoire. Bathroom was smaller than average. Do not sit down on toilet before closing door, that will not work. As far as down town, to take a cab to Fremont from Sahara, $15, Return to Flamingo, $22. Not worth $37, for 2 people. Plenty of other things we could have done. Cab to and from Palms $8 + tip.....Well worth it.

Thanks for that...we%26#39;ll be staying at the Flamingo also and going to JBM (sitting on the patio drinking margarittas)...I can%26#39;t wait!

Thanks for the cab prices as well...good to know. ;-)

Also, I should add the line waiting for cabs at the airport was unbelievable. It was very organized and the lines moved right along. However, they were long, long, long, long.....Can%26#39;t remember how much it cost, I think around 15. However, next time I would look into limo....I%26#39;d rather of started the vacation than wait in line ...since this is Vegas not Disney World.

had the problem with the long line too - we just hopped over to the limo/town car area and grabbed one in 20 seconds. it was a nice way to arrive . .

Attire Help

Anyone have any clothing options for the ';Hip Clubs'; in Vegas? I don%26#39;t venture out the the clubs that often, and I am sure I would stand out like a Republican at a Star Wars movie with my ';current'; attire

thanks ...

Attire Help

Get yourself to the closest Banana Republic or Express Men, tell them what you need the clothes for, and they can set you up.

Attire Help

Do your shopping in Vegas.

The Grand Canal Shops in the Venetian have some nice men%26#39;s stores. They have a Ken Cole store there.

The forum shops have some good stores for men%26#39;s wear.

Some stores are very expensive but others are reasonable ... or close to reasonable ...

';I am sure I would stand out like a Republican at a Star Wars movie with my ';current'; attire';.

LMAO

Try this. Get yourself an oversized NBA jersey, lots of gold chains around you neck, lots of gold rings. a ball cap worn backwards or sideways, sunglasses, some oversized shorts that hang around your knees, some high-top tennis shoes, and a eight-ball hooded jacket. See how far you get.

Grab a nice pair of jeans. Not to baggy. Wear a black or white shirt with a collar, and you%26#39;ll be okay! You don%26#39;t need to wear high priced designer clothes. Same thing that you wear to the Boston bars will get you into most Vegas clubs, minus the sox hat.

I guess if your goal is to ';make it in the door'; your options are really wide open.

If I were you, I%26#39;d want to show a little style and do it up the Vegas way.

Truman,

I like the idea of shopping in Vegas, but was alittle concerned with the ';mark up'; costs, but it will at least keep me from having to (attempt) folding the dudes.

owa2goosiam,

I used this analogy because of a ';conversation'; that I had with a guy in bar last week. He totally lost it when I told him I brought my son to Star Wars III, saying I was supporting those Liberal bastards in hollywood, and how EVERY movie that comes out is made to recruit people to the Left side, This guy had some MAJOR issues ... all I could do was laugh at him

I don%26#39;t think you need to spend a load of $ to look nice. I would suggest doing your shopping before Vegas. No one knows if you bought your shirt @ Kenneth Cole or TJ Maxx. If you want to shop in Vegas fine (b/c I know I will), but don%26#39;t waste a bunch of $ in Vegas just for clothes in to wear there. I%26#39;m sure there are plenty of places to shop in Boston...Just use some common sense or go shopping w/someone else with a good eye for style.

Happy Shopping!!

It is really about personal preference. I like the shops in Vegas. There is certainly nothing like them in Vermont.

Some of the shops are very expensive, and others are within my budget. I figure that I can spend my money in the casino and end up with nothing in the end ... or I can spend my money in the shops and at least get some nice shirts out of it. That%26#39;s just me.

(Sometimes I like to shop on Newbury Street too ... again ... there is nothing in Vermont like it ... and I have something to wear when I go out to the clubs in Boston or Vegas.)

m17-

Hit the Premuim Outlets in Vegas-Banana Republic, Guess, Kenneth Cole, Armani Exhange, Bernini, Calvin Klein. Anyone who works there can help you put together a club outfit %26amp; you%26#39;ll still have money left for drinks.

Imperial Palace 05/08/05-05/12/05: Had a great time!

Just got back from our stay at the IP. Had a great time and here is my trip review. First - thanks to everyone who passed along advice and tips before I left.

HOTEL-IMPERIAL PALACE: I love this place and I am trying to plan my next visit right now! The location is incredible - smack in the middle of the strip was exactly where we wanted to be. Check in at VIP line was quick and overall this was a great place to stay for us.

ROOM: What you read is pretty much true - standard hotel room. Clean but nothing fancy ��� however the water pressure for the shower was awesome. Better than I have at home! Loved the view of the pool from the balcony. The room we were given was actually not even one of the remodeled ones - but it was just fine.

EMPLOYEES: The people were really nice to us so we had a good experience. The maid service was great and we got extra pillows and blankets in less than 5 minutes when we asked for them. The ���Dealertainers��� were GREAT. All the ladies loved the young Elvis as I did, but Tina Turner was incredible, and Louis Armstrong was great and played a mean trumpet! There was a pool-chair wench that everyone laughed at because she made you move your chair back in line if you tried to move it at all, so be ware if you try to move your chair. Most people that worked there were really nice. The only negative I really have is from the Client/Guest Services at IP. I had requested a bottle of champagne and chocolate covered strawberries to be delivered upon check in. We checked in and stayed up in the room for over an hour (my friend likes to unpack and get settled) and then we went and ate and returned to the room and still no message on the phone to call for the champagne. We gambled and came back up to the room and still nothing. We finally got a light after lunch the next day but the point was lost by then. So that was the only real negative I had to say about IP. We had to check out by noon but were not leaving for the airport until 7 PM and they held our luggage for no charge and brought it out to the taxi area for us when we asked for it. All in all I had a great experience at the IP and plan on staying there again! I will post pix when I get them back and ask any other questions if you have them!

CASINO: The craps class was fun and I mostly just played the slots. There was a slot tournament there during our stay and it was interesting to check that out. The smoke? Well that is everywhere we went pretty much. It was not as well lit as other casinos but did not seem dark and dank as I had read.

DRINKS - The drinks were fine and strong enough for free drinks. The service was great there to me. Even the pool drink service was fast. We had a few coupons for free drinks so uh, those were all used for research purposes of course! There are several ';bars'; all around the casino floor and plenty of waitress calling the customary ';Drinks... Cocktails...'; everywhere you turned so drinks were always available if you wanted them.

FOOD: The food was nothing to write home about but not as bad as I have read either. We had the Emperors buffet at IP - it was ok and the mint soft serve ice cream was worth it to me. The Imperial buffet at IP we skipped and ordered breakfast off of the menu and it was good. The burger Palace at IP was ok, the Pizza Palace at IP was pretty good and a good deal so we ate there twice. Outside the IP, we enjoyed the buffet at Harrah���s twice, had a great lunch at the Peppermill, a good hot dog in Carnival court, and a great omelet at the Victorian room except there was an incredibly HUGE moth dive-bombing everyone in the restaurant! We also visited the Ghirardelli store a couple times ��� for free samples, the ice cream and chocolates.

GENERAL TRIP COMMENTS: We walked the entire strip and even checked out the Wynn. It was pretty cool from what we saw and we were ���privileged��� to enjoy a $20 glass of champagne while we were there. We also saw Steve Wynn! No one bothered him but he walked right through the crowds downstairs with his people. I don���t think most people knew who he was. We also went down to Fremont Street too and checked that out and enjoyed the light show. There was a cheesy saxophone player/singer that was being laughed at by everyone before the light show and the other casinos down there were fun to play in as well. With all the walking that we did, I actually lost weight so I am happy! We rode the bus and the trolley and had a very entertaining driver on the trolley.

SHOWS: Saw the Lance Burton show and loved it. Saw Viva Las Vegas at the Stratosphere and had a stomach-ache from laughing so hard at Big John the featured comedian. He was hilarious! I would recommend it and for the price of 1 drink it was a nice break in the afternoon since we did the afternoon show.

All in all it was a great trip and I am ready to go back as soon as I can!

Kath in Atlanta

Imperial Palace 05/08/05-05/12/05: Had a great time!

Thanks for the review...just wondering how to get the VIP check-in?

Thanks ;-)

Imperial Palace 05/08/05-05/12/05: Had a great time!

Thanks for taking the time to report, sounds like you had a good time! Big John sounds great!

Great report, I love the IP. I had an Elvis dealer at BJ last time I was there and he had me laughing so hard, it was great!

Great report! Thanks for sharing. I%26#39;m glad to hear someone say something nice about IP for a change.

What are dealertainers? Dealers dressed up as entertainers?

Also, where is the Ghirardelli store? I love Ghirardelli. Not sure if you are saying it is in Harrah%26#39;s.

Oh and great review. Thanks

Great report!! I am so glad to hear the hotel isn%26#39;t as ';scary'; as some people had mentioned in this forum. I am staying there from 6/10 - 6/13 and eventhough I was excited about it before...I%26#39;m TOTALLY looking forward to it now... I know the hotel was in a great location...but I was hoping to hear good things about the rooms, the service, food (ok maybe not the food..LOL) but now I have ...THANKS...

I%26#39;m really looking forward to seeing your pictures...

Oh yeah... How did you get VIP Check in and those drink coupons for the pool....?

Thanks =0)

Sounds like a relaxing FUN trip!

Thanks for the review - I%26#39;m glad you enjoyed your trip.

My wife and I are scheduled to stay at the IP next Sunday for three nights. I have read some nightmare reviews, so I was a bit nervous. I am glad to hear that it is a decent place to catch a few hours of sleep!

Colin

We have always enjoyed our stays at Imperial. And the show at the Strat we had to see twice since we were laughing so hard the first time we missed some of the show. Great trip report!!!!

I%26#39;m so jealous of all of you who will be there before me...I can%26#39;t wait =0)

Don%26#39;t forget to write a report...so we can keep hearing good things about this hotel.. and the bad stuff too..

Thanks.

How far is TI from the Venetian

How far is TI from the Venetian. Looking at a strip map it looks to be almost across the street but what everyone one says it might not be really that close. We want to see Mystere at Treasure Island and are staying at the venetain. I thought we could do dinner before at the venetian and than walk over, doable? What do you usually do for a dinner and a show?

How far is TI from the Venetian

You can walk over, The Venetian is across the street from the Mirage which is next to TI so it%26#39;s really not that far. I%26#39;m lazy %26amp; I%26#39;d walk there so you shouldn%26#39;t have a problem. There are a ton of nice restaraunts at the Venetian so it%26#39;s just up to you to decide what you want.

How far is TI from the Venetian

Ther is a handy overhead crosswalk from Venitian. Don%26#39;t have to dodge traffic on the Strip.

Yes, its right across the street, head through the Venetian casino back past the players club, past the entrance to Lutece out the doors and there is a escalator up to the walkway over to the TI.

Here%26#39;s a map of the Venetian :

http://www.venetian.com/corp/map1.cfm

Plenty of good places to eat at the Venetian thats for sure, better than the eating at the TI.

YOU are staying at the venetian, rippppppp-offffff.

the guy that owns that place is worse than the mafia.

jackpot 99 you are you to say that your true age is showing. have you every stayed there?

Well we Love the Venetian..and we win there..and TI is right across the street, and we do not win there...but they have a great steak house wow share the portions.yummy!!!!but the steaks are huge..you can walk to a lot of places from the Venetian , very good location and good luck to you!!

Glad I saw this post. I was wondering the same thing since I%26#39;m getting married at TI in October and having our dinner for two at the Venetian.

Jackpot99- What do you mean by your comment about management at the Venetian?

I am interested in the comment about the TI steakhouse being good - we are planning a trip in a few months and will probably stay at the TI again - if it is good maybe we will not have to make the trip up to the CC :-) .....

wholesale cosmetics

The Cannery Promo Code?

We want to stay at the Cannery in North Vegas. Would anyone know of a promo code or a good week-end rate? Thanks, Jake

clubbing in vegas for the ';normal people';

as i said before, me and my mate are heading in july for 2 weeks from ireland, and we just want to get a good nightclub which isnt really tied to the hotels, ones you know you will get into and the ';normal'; people of vegas go to,rather then the highrollers, basically somewhere where the doormen arent going to look at you and give you grief cause your not wearing top gear etc.

we just wanna go and get drunk and get some ladies!

of course we wanna check out the big clubs like ice etc but just somewhere noram would be good,where the girls there are your standard vegas birds, similar to what kinda girls you would get on a normal night over here, also what nights do the clubs open over there?

they open 7 nights a week, or any quite nights not worth going clubbing?

clubbing in vegas for the ';normal people';

think the beach club might be ok for u, check it out

clubbing in vegas for the ';normal people';

Loose... wool...

Why did that pop into my head?

October...That is now a classic line with my friends, I laguh my rear end off every time I hear that.......so funny

';.....where the girls there are your standard vegas birds...'; What does that mean?

Dollar,

That%26#39;s Britspeak for girl next door. Or maybe it means this guy is in a fowl mood when he drinks.

its in a hotel, but RA at luxor looked like it gets a lot of locals, don%26#39;t know about the loose wool

Doug says

';we just wanna go and get drunk and get some ladies!';

Hmm, The drunken irishman move, sounds slick. I think it might work, I%26#39;ll give it a try

thaks

i%26#39;ve had a couple good times at the clubs at rio (club rio %26amp; voodoo lounge)... it%26#39;s been awhile since i%26#39;ve been - but there were always fun ';birds'; there when we went... if what you%26#39;re looking for is a club experience without dealing w/ the lines/cover, etc... you can go to their website, and sign up for free VIP passes...

http://www.riovegasnights.com/index3.cfm#

I just love the way men talk about us women sometimes, lol!

Cali...good to see you back....

I like the drunken Irish pick up line...I am sure in Ireland that the ladies really dig it. So do you think any of the American ladies will be able to understand Dougs once he gets drunk?

I would love to really know what line he uses on the ladies.

Sahara or the Stratosphere?

I%26#39;m planning on taking my boyfriend to Vegas for his 22 birthday in December. I%26#39;m on a bit of a budget but want to stay on the strip. I%26#39;m considering the Stratosphere or the Sahara, can anyone tell me which one is better? Also any must see shows or attractions? Thanks for your help.

Sahara or the Stratosphere?

I%26#39;d take Sahara because it has a monorail station.

Have you checked Barbary Coast? It%26#39;s a small but decent hotel in the heart of the strip, next to Flamingo and across from Bellagio and Caesars. Might be in the same league, price-wise, and if it is I%26#39;d recommend it.

Sahara or the Stratosphere?

Maureen, for about the same cost you can stay in a much better Hotel called Orleans. It is off strip but has a free shuttle back to the strip which drops you off at the Barbary Coast.

Orleans has a great buffet, large well appointed rooms, great service and lots of inexpensive food options. Is is worth looking into if you are on a budget.

Good luck.

I%26#39;ve stayed at the Stratosphere and spend time playing at the Sahara but have not seen the rooms there.

I would pick the Stratosphere. Their casino seemed newer and more fun than the Sahara%26#39;s. Also I thought my room at the Strat was fine. It was large and clean with all the essentials. It also had a really nice view of the mountains. It did smell smoky BUT I had requested a smoking room so that did not bother me. When I checked in I asked about free upgrades and they put me in the Premier Tower which is their newer/nicer one for no charge. (They charge about $10 more per night for that tower on their website.) I don%26#39;t know what the rooms in their other towers look like.

I enjoyed staying at the Strat and the walk from there to the Sahara is not bad. There is also a bus that goes by every 10 or 15 minutes that goes up and down the strip. You can also catch one to downtown.

Hilton are now offering 49$ rooms at certain periods, and that%26#39;s better than both.

I stayed at the Sahara in January and thought it was decent enough for the 39.99 rate I paid. I would think that if you are going in december that you can find some great rates at some nicer more centrally located places. Start signing up for all the casinos players clubs ';dont cost nuthin'; and you will get e-mailed specials and promotions. You should can book something now and then change or cancel when a better special comes along.

have stayed at both and would pick the strat over sahara . dont forget to take into account the money you will spend on monorail or cab fees when comparing prices with other hotels closer to center strip .

as far as shows you should see the free attractions if on a budget such a fountains bellagio, volcano mirage , freemont street light show , pirate ships ti, statues at ceasers fourm shops . good luck with your trip !

The Steakhouse

The Steakhouse is now the #1 rated Vegas restaurant, on TA. Is it possible? I%26#39;ve never been.... is it that good? After reading all the posts regarding Circus Circus, which is where The Steakhouse is located, it%26#39;s hard to believe.

Thanks!

The Steakhouse

I have been to all the steakhouses around town and still prefer CC Steakhouse to any of the others. True CC is not a shinning star, but the Steakhouse is, you just have to get over being biased.

The Steakhouse

We just were at the steakhouse Wednesday. The dinner was very good to excellant, the steak was cooked perfect, service was impeccable. And I thought the ambiance was perfect. I would definately recommend the Steakhouse.

My husband and I were there a month ago and we really enjoyed it. Service is first class, atmosphere romantic/stylish, food is fantastic. Good as any place in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or any place in LV, just cost less.

I was there this past Thursday night (5/19). I actually called that afternoon from the Orlean%26#39;s pool and got a reservation for 7 people. When I got there, the party reduced to 5 and they had us seated within 10 minutes. I%26#39;m not sure why they bothered with smoking/non-smoking because they cook the steaks right there in the same room, but enclosed by 9 feet of glass, which is really nice....and you can smell the meat as it cooks. YUM.

We had ordered 3 meaty dishes and a bottle of wine (the children in our party only had bread since we stuffed them with CC food), the bill came out to about $160. I LOVE the ambience, nice and dark. The staff was super friendly and VERY curteous and generous with the extras.

I can definitely see why its rated up there. My friend, who had the filet, said that was the best he had ever had. After the huge side salad, we were almost full. The steaks were sooooo good, we didn%26#39;t mind stuffing ourselves!

In addition, I was play single deck 21 at CC at the $5 limit tables. This party of 3 were playing together and playing $15-$25 hands each. So we talked about where to eat, the dealer suggested she get the floor manager to call the Steakhouse and get them a reservation for 4. They got one right away for 9:45PM that night (40 later).

So you might be able to get a reservation that way....play some bj!

We enjoyed our dinner there last month, I think that the rating is a result that more people feel compelled to write positive reviews of this restaurant than others. Perhaps people are so impressed that this place in CC actually has good food that they are more prone to do a review ! I am sure I would be a bit more forgiving of this place of a small oversight then if I went to Delmonico%26#39;s and had a slight dissatisfaction with an item. I would be more apt to complain if I was paying more and if there was a lot of hype involved.

I am sure that there are better overall dining experiences but CC Steakhouse has proved to be very good and consistent.

Wife and I went there last mid April, it was great. I do not have a problem with the rating, we went to Rosemary%26#39;s and Hugo Cellar and it certainly is in the same class. Don%26#39;t be like me and let stereotype uniformed opinions scare you away. It is worth the walk through CC to get there.

Crap Dealer Mistake Question for VegasMan

VM, I was playing at a crap table (not in Vegas) last Friday, when a new player came up next to me. He through down his cash and was given a stack of quarters. The dice then moved to a couple of different players. Then while a new game was beginning, a seven was rolled which paid the pass line. I had two nickels on my pass line bet and my neighbor had two quarters. Well, the dealer paid me with two quarters, as well as my neighbor. When I reached down to pick up my winnings, I notice the mistake and notified the dealer (who had just paid me). He politely commented on my honesty and then quickly paid me correctly. All this happened while the suited gentleman (setting), was busy handling something on the opposite side of the table.

Now to my question: Could I have picked up that money without being in the wrong? Or did I do the right thing? After it happened I looked up and counted at least three camera%26#39;s hovering over that table. Could the house have phone down and made me pay the mistake back if I had picked it up?

Thanks, Tarifa

Crap Dealer Mistake Question for VegasMan

And you think Vegasman knows the answer for this? He is just a dealer who keeps a keen eye on who is tipping and who is not!

Let me tell you what would have happened, just NOTHING !!!

They do not track games hand by hand manually (unless they suspect something). Even if they noticed the mistake, you still have the rights to contest that. All you have to do is make a call to Nevada Gaming Commission and a representative will come down and see the tape and then give the final verdict.

Crap Dealer Mistake Question for VegasMan

I think that is a valid question....is the dealer pays you incorrectly and you take the money and pocket it do you have to give it back if they notice, are you held responsible?

I think you did the right thing, but probably didn%26#39;t have to.

Dealers make mistakes all of the time. I think the only time it becomes an issue is when a player contests something or unless the error is huge. From my experiences the pit boss make the initial ruling without looking at the tape, at least I%26#39;ve never seen them reviewing film ala NFL replays.

anirbanstays;

I%26#39;m sure VM does a lot more than keep and eye on who is tipping and who is not.

Thanks for your opinion. I thought back over the incident on my way home, and still think I did the right thing. I could have easily picked up the mistake and took my chances. But I live my life under several principles, one of which is - I don%26#39;t lie, I don%26#39;t steal, and I%26#39;m human like everyone else - I make mistakes too.

Tarifa

Tarifa,

You did the absolutely right thing. Who is challenging your moral, ethics or values ?

On a different note, what makes you feel that Vegasman is a gaming expert ? He physically stays in vegas and went to dealers%26#39; school to learn how to throw cards to players - that makes him an expert ? LOL !!!

I think VM supervises the craps pits.

VM is not just a dealer he is the area manager I think. He would certainly know the answer to the question. Bump this post later in the evening. He%26#39;s probably working.

Craps Supervisor ? Oh, Yah ! Slightly better than the minumum wage but must wear a suit and the gaming expertise is just natural !!!!

anirbanstays,

I not saying VM is or is not an expert. But from what I%26#39;ve read from his post%26#39;s, he is more knowledgeable than I am. Sounds like he is around the game more, (than I am ) and has shared (IMO) some very valuable information. And not just on craps but Vegas in general. I personally enjoy reading the many opinions not only from him but from all the posters. Even you......

Tarifa

Tarifa,

whatever VM is, he would definitely provide facts and insights that this other gentleman/lady cannot. I would bump later this evening

Concert at Mandalay Beach

Thought I would check out Los Lonely Boys at the beach at MB. Anybody been there for a show?

Concert at Mandalay Beach

are you planning a trip around the show, or do they happen to be there when you are staying in Vegas? Just curious. Anyhow-the shows are good there, but you want to show up early to ensure you get just the spot you want, have refreshments, and get settled. Dress in as little as you can, as if you are going anytime soon, it%26#39;ll be hotter than heck. I personally would skip this band and go see the band that they ripped off (and not a very good rip-off at that), Los Lobos. They are VERY talented, and not just pop drivel. Just my opinion though-everyone likes different things.

Concert at Mandalay Beach

I am a HUGE Stevie Ray Vaughn fan (one reason my boyfriend and I hit it off years ago), and I should qualify my last post by posting the review of the Lonely Boys CD (included is how I came about buying it) that I put in to amazon. I think it clarifies my feelings and takes some bite out of the last post (if it was indeed offensive). Here ya go:

SRV once again rolls over in his grave, January 9, 2005

Every few years some new cat comes out and is designated as %26#39;the best since SRV%26#39;(or if you%26#39;ve got your ear to the TX music circuit its is about every other month). Sadly virtually every one of these people are cheap Stevie Ray knock-offs. LLB is no different.

I originally picked up this CD when I thought it was a Los Lobos album. Nope, and back to the shelf it went. I didn%26#39;t think much of it until these folks graced the cover of some guitar mag. I picked it up and read the article - SRV influence; heavy into blues greats; new blues album; turning on a new generation to blues, etc. So I decided it was at least worth a listen, and the next time I was in the store buying CD%26#39;s I plunked down my $15 for the album and away I went.

Big mistake. It is one thing to be *heavily influenced* by a musician (a la Herndrix to SRV) and it is a whole other thing to rip a man off. HG has the same sound (and set up) as Stevie. We could let that pass but in addition, and here%26#39;s the big one, he rips off Stevie%26#39;s licks. Every time I listen I hear something else. %26#39;Crazy Dream%26#39; is probably the biggest %26#39;Cold Shot%26#39; ripoff I%26#39;ve ever heard. %26#39;Dime mi Amor%26#39; is peppered with licks from %26#39;Scuttlebuttin%26#39;, %26#39;Pride %26amp; Joy%26#39;, SRV%26#39;s cover of %26#39;Voodoo Chile%26#39; and more. The list goes on and on and on. The one thing these guys didn%26#39;t steal from Stevie is his song writing ability. Yech! The writing is absolutely horrid. I don%26#39;t know what is more insulting, the fact that these HG is a SRV ripoff (but completely lacking SRV%26#39;s spark) or the fact that these guys seem to be getting away with it. But like all other flashes in the pan, these guys too shall fade and a few years from now nobody will remember them.

To anyone who doesn%26#39;t know better I guess these guys are pretty hot. To anybody that knows and appreciated blues, these guys are plain insulting.

Cactusbetty

Now don%26#39;t be an elitist

I sorta like Los Lonely Boys and think Mandalay beach would be a great venue for a band like that. They have a nice pop (not blues) sound. Plus they they are young and still relevant.

pop/rock/blues is all about ripping off your predecessors styles.

Don%26#39;t know the band, but the beach is a great place to see it. They don%26#39;t let you bring anything in, and they give you a towel to sit on. You can also hang out in the pool. It is very intimate venue, you can get as close as you want.

Thanks for the help everyone. Cactus who knew you were such a connnaiseur of blues. Well be in town that weekend and thought we%26#39;d check out the show. Hubby is a fan of blues and plays guitar. Thought it might be fun.

wholesale cosmetics

Flying first-class?

I haven%26#39;t flown first-class in years and years. Is there any point to it nowadays, aside from getting a ';better quality'; frozen dinner and a free weak drink?

Airline will be Northwest, if that matters.

Flying first-class?

If you do fly first class, don%26#39;t post it here. A few idiots on this site will tell you what a fool you are for spending the extra money. They%26#39;ll probably tell you to take the bus because you%26#39;re going to end up in Las Vegas either way.

Check the replys posted on my SW Steakhouse review.

I%26#39;d say if you%26#39;ve got the extra cash, go first class if that%26#39;s your pleasure.

Have a great trip!

Flying first-class?

I enjoy traveling first class. A warning though, it%26#39;s not the same as it was a few years back.

The main benefit is the extra room, specially flying to LV... most of the flights are packed and you won%26#39;t enjoy much room! Plus you get your luggage first, with the priority tags.

You do get a meal, and it is often quite decent. Haven%26#39;t flown Northwest in about a year, but they used to offer you a choice of three entrees.

As far as the drinks, they are as weak or strong as you want them, since you get the miniature bottles and can get as many (within reason) as you want.

If it%26#39;s within your budget, by all means do it.

First on, First off, bigger more comfortable seat, some sort of meal on longer flights, and better drink service with free alchohol.

was in vegas last year was lucky enough to get upgraded to first class for free. must of been my diamond smile lol.

Depends entirely on the cost difference. Personally, I%26#39;d rather save the extra plane money and spend it on a nicer hotel/room.

I believe NORTHWEST reported several cases of food poisoning

in their meals packages. pointe to the cooked carrots.

SAVE YOUR MONEY. mix with the rest of the vegas folks in coach.

My general rule is only fly first when it%26#39;s offered as an upgrade, but to each his own.

If you can fly Song out of BDL, I would actually recommend it. Everyone has a private TV with live Satellite programming, which makes the flight go by quick. The seats are all leather, and it%26#39;s a discount airline, so cheaper than flying normal.

Priority check-in, priority line through security -at least at McCarran, first on/first off. Better seats, 50% more frequent flyer miles. Totally your call on whether that%26#39;s worth the extra cash.

FWIW, flown Business Class crossing the pond on NW-pretty good food and I DID NOT get food poisoning-(although that%26#39;s the catering company NOT the airline; meaning if it%26#39;s actually true then other airlines with the same catering company should%26#39;ve reported the problem.)

Last time in Vegas, we called the airline 24 hrs. before our flight to ask if there were any upgrades available for 1st class. It was 100 bucks more, and I think it was worth it instead of sitting crammed in coach for 5 hours with a Chinese man sneezing every 10 seconds and another lady with food poisoning on the other side. Sometimes they are booked up, but it is worth a try!

Just don%26#39;t be one of those people. Checking our bags once, waiting on line and this woman yelps, ';EXCUSE ME, I%26#39;m in FIRST class and I need you to move.'; Kiss my @$$ lady.

I pay for coach tickets and then use my frequent flyer miles to upgrade to first class - makes a 5 hour flight much more bearable. US Air first class is not what it used to be but the extra seat room is what counts the most to me. Leaving this Sunday for 25th anniv. trip to Wynn - I will write a trip report when I get back!