smokiness of Vegas

Ok, strange question....But anyway,

Not planning on going into the casinos while in vegas but wondering about the overall smoking rules there. Im a second hand smoke-aphobe and used to being out in the smoke free country....smoking in restaurants? public spaces? whats the deal?

smokiness of Vegas

Vegas is a smokers heaven. Well, except for the price of cigarettes. There%26#39;s really no way to avoid the second hand smoke while in Vegas. Non-smoking floors have ash trays next to the elevators, restaruants all have smoking sections that drift into the non-smoking sections, and smoking is permitted in public areas.

smokiness of Vegas

Vegas is the exact opposite of California.

the deal is.........if your a true ';second hand smoke aphobe';, change your plans and go somewhere else. Smoking is everywhere. And how are you going to do anything without stepping into a casino? Even walking to the elevators in your hotel will prove to irritate you. Poolside will bother you, walking the strip, going through a casino to get to a show, smoking is everywhere. Not trying to be difficult but consider yourself forewarned that it truly is a smokers heaven and don%26#39;t plan on being a rude non-smoker by yelling at folks around you as you go places. Honestly, I think the casinos do an amazing job of keeping the air as smoke free as possible but a true smoke aphobe will be much too irritated to enjoy oneself.

As I said, just consider yourself forewarned.

If you can%26#39;t stand smoke you are going to have a tough time in Vegas. It is almost impossible to avoid casinos(with their smoke) in Vegas. You have to walk through them to get just about anywhere. They did have one small non-smoking casino on the strip but it closed. People smoke everywhere in Vegas. I do have to say that as an ex-smoker the smoke really doesn%26#39;t bother me that much.

Stay in Califonie if smoke offends you. Once you get out of the airport or taxi, welcome to smoke. Only hotel you cannot smoke in is the cross-bar motel.

Maybe it was just my imagination but it seems like the higher end hotels have a better ventilation system in their casinos. I am really bothered by smoke but it didn%26#39;t seem to bother me in places like Balligo, MGM, Mandalay Bay even New York New York. Places like Circus Circus, and Star Dust are actually blue with smoke. Same goes for the higher end restaurants. I have asthma but I did OK in Vegas with a non smoking room.

Smoke was one thing I was concerned with on our first trip out there too. I was pregnant and didn%26#39;t want to be in too much smoke, but the ventilation REALLY is great in the bigger places! Places like Boardwalk were BAD for smoke, just avoid the rinky dink places and you%26#39;ll probably be ok.

***Dissenting Opinion Alert***

I am VERY aware of and despise cigarette smoke, but for some reason don%26#39;t have a big problem with it in most areas of Las Vegas, including casinos.

Granted, I never wander thru the real ';low-end'; casinos, but for instance Golden Nugget and Mirage casinos don%26#39;t bother me at all. I%26#39;m even fine at an old joint like the Golden Gate.

Generally, if you are not going into casinos, you should probably be fine at your hotel (assuming it%26#39;s somewhat upscale and you%26#39;re on a non-smoking FLOOR), shops, nice restaurants and especially outside.

My eyes are very dry and sensitive to smoke, but I really never have a real problem in Vegas. I tend to spend more time in the larger properties, play poker in no smoking rooms %26amp; avoid sitting near smokers when I hit the video poker or slot machines.

It seems to me that if you really have a phobia, the great air handling in the nicer casinos may not be enough to make your trip pleasant. It may bother you to simply see all of those people smoking away, whether you can really smell the smoke or not. Think seriously about your feelings about being around smokers and change your plans if you believe that seeing tons of lit cigarettes, butts, ash trays, etc. will make it hard for you to enjoy yourself.

If the smoke in the casinos dont get you, the exhaust pollution outside in Vegas will really get you.

A view from the 20th floor shows a layer of golden brown air from about 500 feet down.

a surgical mask and bottle of o2 will be your only out for a visit to the city of Vegas.

how does the playersclub work at MGM???

hello, im staying in MGM in 2 weeks and am interested in this players club thing... i went to the website and they said that for every point on my card i will recieved 1 penny comp... my question is how long does it take to rack up points??? i am going to play mostly slots... should i charge all services to my room?? any info on this is appreciated. thanks!

how does the playersclub work at MGM???

A quick way to estimate points from slot play is that for every $150 you lose, you%26#39;ll get about 1000 points. This is based on the math that if you keep playing at a machine with a 90% payback, then you%26#39;ll get about $1500 of ';coin in'; before you lose the whole $150. The MGM club gives you 1 point for each $1.50 of coin in, so that%26#39;s 1000 points. You will get cash back at the rate of one penny per point, so you%26#39;ll get $10 in cash back. Comps are separate from the cash back. Stop by the players club and see what you can get. If you%26#39;re staying at an MGM-Mirage property, charge everything to your room and then stop by just before you leave and see how much they%26#39;ll take off your bill. My wife and I always averaged about 1500 points per day, and we usually got back an average of about $50 per day in comps, either free nights or food comps. Hope this helps.

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Driving times to Hoover Dam and other questions...

Can anyone answer these questions?:

How long does it take to drive to Hoover Dam from the strip?

Is it on the way to Grand Canyon?

Can you still do the tour which goes into the dam?

Driving times to Hoover Dam and other questions...

When I mapquested this drive, it said 36 minutes, but I%26#39;ve heard traffic can be a problem and it can take half an hour to go the last 2 miles, so I%26#39;d allow for an hour.

We are going here soon, as well!

Driving times to Hoover Dam and other questions...

Oh, and it is sort of on the way to the Grand Canyon--not much added onto the trip if you go this route, maybe 5 or 10 minutes. They still have 2 tours, but going down to see the workings of the dam is off limits since 9/11.

Drove it last Aug directly from the airport in the morning. Took about 35 minutes. You CAN go inside the dam. We were finished walking around by about noon, and, driving back, we noticed the traffic going to the dam was very heavy.

It is about 35 miles from the strip to the Grand Canyon . So about 45 minutes .( depending on traffic and which end you are on ) It cost $10.00 USD for the tour . There are many wonderful tours available going to Lake Meade , Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon all rolled in one , in which you can ride the bus , fly etc... and that serve lunch and go to botanical gardens etc. as well also to the Hualapai Indian reservation at the west rim of the Canyon . ( Most are VERY affordable ) . The Hoover Dam is on the way to the Canyon . Since you are already on this website i am surprised you have not looked at them . be ware of not being able to take large knap sacks , purses atc. to the dam .

It is about 35 miles from the strip to the Grand Canyon . So about 45 minutes .( depending on traffic and which end you are on ) It cost $10.00 USD for the tour . There are many wonderful tours available going to Lake Meade , Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon all rolled in one , in which you can ride the bus , fly etc... and that serve lunch and go to botanical gardens etc. as well also to the Hualapai Indian reservation at the west rim of the Canyon . ( Most are VERY affordable ) . The Hoover Dam is on the way to the Canyon . Since you are already on this website i am surprised you have not looked at them . be ware of not being able to take large knap sacks , purses atc. to the dam .

The trip to the dam is less than 40 miles I believe. The problems getting there are- Road construction of the highway near the dam and the security checkpoint before the dam. Be prepared for a few slowdowns and having your car searched.

The tour inside the dam includes a short film, an elevator ride, a long tunnel, and a view of one of the generator rooms. It is interesting the first time but not enough for repeat visiting. If you haven%26#39;t seen it, by all means check it out. It is definitely cooler inside the dam than outside this time of the year.

You can route your trip to go over the dam and on to the Grand Canyon.

The Hoover Dam is free to visit (unless you take the tour inside.)

The Grand Canyon has a fee.

Both places are a ';must see.';

Thanks everyone. We%26#39;ll probably go early then to avoid the traffic.

We are going to drive rather than take a tour from Vegas. Are going down into the dam and seeing the workings the same thing? (Sorry if that sounds like a stupid question!)

Don%26#39;t worry - Buckethead just answered the question already!

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Lake Cruise

We will be staying at Caesars for a few days and would like to do a dinner cruise one evening on the lake. Can someone suggest a good cruise with good food that would be easy to find from Caesars. We will have a car, but don%26#39;t want to spend a lot of time driving around trying to find the cruise.

Thanks.

Lake Cruise

The MS Dixie has a dinner cruise and leaves from Zypher Cove which is about 4 miles north of the casino area..

The Hornblower Tahoe Queen which is an authentic paddle whell boat has a dinner cruise and leaves from the Marina at the foot of Ski Run Blvd on the CA side.

The Tahoe Gal leaves form Tahoe City Marina and is not convenient to your Caesars location.

free rooms at the Stardust? Or pay for The Orleans?

We are taking my father in law and our 2 children to Vegas this month. Our intent is to see the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, and Sedona, (we are going by way of LV because we have free flights for all of us).

I got rooms for our first night in LV at the Rio, for $49--I was very happy about that, and I planned on another night at The Orleans--for $40--the night before we return home. But, just to throw a wrench into things, my father in law called our local riverboat and was given comped rooms at the Stardust for 3 nights. They will comp our room, as well, if I agree to give up our other hotels. I%26#39;m not willing to give up the Rio, but maybe it would be worth it to switch to the Stardust for the last two nights.

I%26#39;m not really thrilled with the reviews on the Stardust, so somebody talk me into (or out of) this decision, please!

Thanks!

free rooms at the Stardust? Or pay for The Orleans?

My friend had an Air Force Reunion at Stardust and we moved from the Golden Nugget over the weekend to the Stardust on Monday. It was clean, comfortable and I would have no problem staying there again. The drink service at the slot machines was better than any where else that we went. I didn%26#39;t use the pool but from what I could see from my window it looked nice. We easily walked to the Wynn from there and to the Fashion Mall. There is a Starbucks right across the street. I%26#39;d say go for it. You have a lot planned and really won%26#39;t be in your room that much anyway. P.S. I like the Rio too. :)

free rooms at the Stardust? Or pay for The Orleans?

It may be worth the extra cash in hand to suck it up and stay at the Stardust. It could mean a nicer car rental or a special family dinner. I haven%26#39;t stayed at the Stardust but I thought the casino was pretty nice when I visited there.

I have stayed at the Rio and hopefully your kids will have a chance to visit the pool while you are there. They%26#39;ll get a kick out of the waterfall.

BTW, what casino is comping the rooms?

I always like the ring to the word ';free.'; Since you won%26#39;t be in the room that much there is no reason not to go to the Stardust. It is on the north end of the strip but within walking distance to the TI. From there you can take the free tram to the Mirage which would put you more towards the center of the strip. Use the money to go to a better restaurant for dinner.

Thank you both for your advice!

FIL is getting the rooms comped through the Para-dice Riverboat in Peoria--apparently they are owned by the same parent company that owns the Stardust. He got a coupon in the mail for the Stardust and thought he may as well call up the riverboat and ask what they could do for him in Vegas. He%26#39;s never been to LV before, but he does frequent the riverboat regularly.

Just goes to show you, it never hurts to ask!

Thanks again!

First of all, MAKE SURE the free rooms at Stardust are not in the two story motel buildings out back (if they are still standing). This is where a LOT of the FREE rooms used to be.

We stayed in one about ten years ago for about ten minutes and then bailed. Ask Vegasman about this. If your rooms are going to be in these buildings, DO NOT stay at Stardust.

It also depends on how old the kids are and what they will be doing while at the hotel/casino. If they are very young (under 4) and will just be in the rooms, I would take the free rooms at Stardust.

If they are old enough to go to the pool, arcade, bowling and movies, stay at Orleans. It has all of the above and Stardust does not cater to kids. It generally caters to mid and upper age ';Old Vegas'; types.

A few last questions

Will be at the Nugget for a week this month. My first stay downtown after many years of staying on the strip.

1. What are the best places for a quick meal?

2. Is there any special request about rooms at the Nugget I should make?

3. What are the best casinos for video poker, craps, blackjack?

4. Anything else I should know about downtown?

A few last questions

All of the hotels have coffee shops...since you will be downtown you can walk to many properties...Four Queens..I like their coffee shop...Plaza..not so nice...Fremont..California club..etc...also the Venetian%26#39;s coffee shop is not bad...enjoy

A few last questions

Thanks

The Nugget has a snack shop for quick bites to eat-right by the poker room and also Carson St cafe-just dont go there at peak breakfast time-there is a line. Binions has a decent coffee shop with alot of different food choices, as well as a snack bar for Hog dogs, burgers, greasy food. Four Q has a subway %26amp; Burger King.

I%26#39;d say request a north tower room close to the elevator for the easiest access to the casino.

GN isnt very good for VP in my experience. I like Binions %26amp; 4Q for both VP %26amp; Blackjack-dont play craps. GN for blackjack early early morning like 3 or 4 is good-they have tables open and lower minimums.

Hit the oxygen bar in front of Starbucks for a refresher and good hangover cure, deep fried twinkie at Mermaids if you can stomach it, and make sure you dont run out of smokes since its a b--tch to get them comped!! Drink lots, gamble lots and have a blast!

vegasman ? please

HI VM.

you replied to a question of mine a few week%26#39;s ago, about the instant replay and sport%26#39;s bar accross the street from the westgate flamingo bay resort. you said at the time it had change name, i have been searching the net to find it or a name like it. could you go one step further for me and try and find out it%26#39;s current name. t/y UKTRIPPER.

vegasman ? please

Can%26#39;t find the name for you, but it really won%26#39;t matter. You won%26#39;t eat there that often!

It%26#39;s a big unit, we found it noisy (sports bar bit) a bit dark and really short on customers so we never quite relaxed.

Having said that, the food was good, friendly service and they will give you a take away menu too.

Once you get to the Westgate and find your bearings you will notice that there are plenty of places to eat between the site and the strip by most road junctions. We never bought breakfast as Supermarket is 10 mins away (turn left at complex gates. walk to the traffic lights and supermarket is next to Wendy%26#39;s) and we got juice, cereal, fruit and doughnuts. Coffee for coffee maker is dead cheap - don%26#39;t forget filters though - we had none in the apartment but a pack of 100 cost 99 cents. We got through quite a big tin of coffee in 11 days (cost about $8 for the tin)

Only other tip - if you like tea take a travel kettle and tea bags, but try the Liptons tea it%26#39;s quite nice.

Buy the better quality bread too - it will last well.

Jam - the grape stuff was awful!! Marmalade OK and a brand of Jam called schmuckers(?) was OK too.

If your going to use the bus get a $5 day ticket. If you want to buy toiletries the Walgreens on the strip were more expensive the off strip branches for some things - to be fair, not by too much.

The next main junction to the right of the Westgate (2nd set of lights) is Decataur. The bus going along that Road ,north (or towards the Stratosphere end!) will take you past many shops including a Walmart, a massive 99cent shop (it was OK, but no great shakes) and eventually to the Maryland shopping centre, which is worth going to.

Last thing - pop a couple of travel packs of washing powder in your suitcase - there is one little box of ';Tide'; in the washer area - they aren%26#39;t used to us Brits who stay there for weeks. MOre than happy to bring you whatever you need if you call reception if you run out of dishwasher powder etc.

It%26#39;s getting close now for you to go isn%26#39;t it?

Looking forward to reading your thoughts when you get back.

Have a great time

Andrew

vegasman ? please

ANDREWR, thank%26#39;s for all that great info, hope your posting a review of your stay in vegas, looking foreward to reading it. arriving late in the day at westgate andrew, just thought it would be handy to pop accross the road to eat, we will be shattered after 19hour%26#39;s door to door travel. andrew we leave 7 week%26#39;s this comming friday. ANDREW WOULD YOU EMAIL ME SO I CAN ASK YOU SOME OTHER QUESTION%26#39;S. andyp@sitemaster.karoo.co.uk look foreward to hearing from you. UKTRIPPER.

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wedding meal

Hi I am getting married in vegas august 16 and have 16 family and friends coming with me. any ideas of a good place to eat after?

wedding meal

what do you think you are in the mood for...there are too many good eateries around so you need to point us in some direction...

.plus you are cutting it close if you want to go to a upscale eatery.....they are getting booked up....

wedding meal

Iam one of the party at the aforementioned wedding. Maybe American style food? Ive heard alot about Rosemarys?

I have never been, I heard it was wonderful though... My husband and I went to Delmonicos last year and they were catering to a small wedding party (about 10) it looked wonderful. Atmosphere is load too. Steaks are good. Blacxkstones at Monte Carlo is very nice too. But it is most important to make the reservation now. We will be out in Vegas next week and had a very hard time getting reservations (at decent dining times) for just two people.

slot play: stay or roam?

We just returned from another trip and on the ride home from the airport started talking about slot play.Which is more common--put your money in and run it through and collect your winnings if any--or move to another machine if there are no hits in the first 5-6 pulls? Just wondered.

slot play: stay or roam?

given that the machines have the same payout ratio it would make absolutely no difference.

slot play: stay or roam?

given that the machines have the same payout ratio it would make absolutely no difference.

I like to play certain name games. but, when there are 6 of the same machines in a row, try some in each. and definitely when you do hit a good one, move. It may hit again soon but the odds are it won%26#39;t for a while.

By the same token, certain machines are cold and stay cold for that day.

about the only way to get lucky on multi coin games, is to juggle the size of the bet. so, you play low, low low, low and when you notice 5-6 spins in a row with not even a small win, up the bet and hope it coincides with a winner.

The positive thing about this method is you will put less money in the machines than the average player with the same bet every pull.

but, bottom line, any thing that is a ';good win';, cash out, walk away with their money.

The machines are not programed to hit at a certain time so it makes no difference if you stay at a machine or move on. Having said that I do move to another vp machine if I don%26#39;t hit after a few tries. It doesn%26#39;t make any sense and I know that but gambling in Vegas makes no sense either but that doesn%26#39;t stop me from doing it.

Slot queen here, love the things! I don%26#39;t know why but whenever I play a machine that won%26#39;t even give a few small hits, if I stay there, it never hits no matter how much I pump into it. I%26#39;ve won lots of pots of anywhere from $300-$1900, each time the machine played with me (slot lovers will know what I mean) within the first $40-$60, in the end I amost always walked away a winner.

I have put more money than I care to admit in ONE slot machine and have it not pay anything. Occasionally I will luck out and hit just enough to get me even again. The wins I have had are the ones where I have put only a $20 in the machine. I am a slow learner, but I try to not give a machine more than $20.

no truth if a machine hits move on it won%26#39;t hit again.playing at turning stone casino in N.Y. and hit $1199 played down to $1150 and cashed in,came back and wife and i were talking,you won%26#39; hit on that machine again and after playing $9.00 more,$1199 again. oh! well.

The only hits I have had of $100 or more have been in the first $20. Maybe thats just me, but if I dont hit any action ( no credits at all ) in $20 -40 then I am gone on a slot machine. Also, it seems that some machines are looser then others , I have found a few machines that seem to be luckier for me than others over days of play.

If a VP machine takes my $20 without paying me on even one hand I try another.

Video BJ seems the same way to me , the machine seems to be either a loser or a winner and you know it pretty quickly. I managed to find 2 good ones recently at a local %26#39;boat%26#39; .

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Weekends at the Hard Rock

I have reservations in November that were going to be from Sunday to Wednesday. I recently decided to pony up the cash and make it to include Friday and Saturday. Was it worth it? basically, are weekends at the Hard Rock off the hook?

Weekends at the Hard Rock

In a word ';YUP';

Can you walk?

can you walk from the strip *say im standing in front of like ballys* to ellis island? or is it too far?

Can you walk?

Sure you can walk there. Actually if you walk through Ballys and exit out the side doors on their basement level where all their shops are, you will be reducing some of the walk or at least you will be indoors where there is air conditioning as opposed to walking a longer distance from the front of Ballys. Walk should only take about 10-15 minutes.

Can you walk?

Compare the walk to your neighborhood at 1 am on a saturday nite. Would you feel SAFE?

You can easily walk it. Just don%26#39;t go alone at night.

we walked it after our Jubilee show @ ballys - 12:30am.. it%26#39;s about a 15 minute walk.. halfway there we raised our brows, but said what the hayall, we gotta do it. no issues.

yo chica - in fact, it%26#39;s like about as far a walk as from Bay Village in LBI, to the ocean :)

i dont do lbi, so i wouldnt know that one lol and i would feel safe walkin in my neighborhood at 1am...dont know where you live!! lol....its not a big deal i can cab it there, im not tryin to sweat the clothes off my back before i get there thanks!!!

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

Has anybody done this? If so, how was it? Is it worth the $12.50 outisde or $15 inside price. Was thinking of taking this romantic ride before me and my hubby go to the V-Bar. TIA

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

I liked it...It was a fun thing to do once...Most people in this forum will tell you it is cheesy....we did it for our anniversary and it was cute....

Gondola Ride at the Venetian

When I visited the Venetian the canal where the gondolas ride was absolutely disgusting. Cigarette butts and trash all over the place. I don%26#39;t know if we visited on an off day or what, but I was really surprised. I was considering a gondola ride, but once I saw all that mess I was just turned off.

I%26#39;ve been to the Venetian quite a few times and while I%26#39;ve never ridden in one of the gondolas I have never noticed the %26#39;canal%26#39; to be at all dirty. My guess is that mmlm01 just saw the %26#39;canal%26#39; at the wrong time. It would only take one rude group of jerks dropping their butts into the water to make it look nasty.

We did it a couple of weeks ago for our anniversary. The canals were clean when we were there! Because it was so hot, we had to do the inside one. Sharing the ride with another couple was fine - they even helped us take a couple of photos.

They will also try to sell you a photo of you in the gondola for $20 afterwards... of course, my husband fell for that because we didn%26#39;t have too many photos of us together for most of the trip.

Since most of us will never make it to Venice... it is something to do once... But keep in mind the prices of $15 is pp based on 4 people and they will pull two other people out of line (which there always is) o ride with you. It you want to ride with just your husband you must by the other two tickets So total will be $60 for two

Think Lazy River at Michigan%26#39;s Adventure Park with a fake gondola. Weee. Also, be aware that some on-lookers and bystanders above and along the outside canals take great delight in making fun of and sometimes tossing stuff at the ';romantic couples'; during the ride.

';on-lookers and bystanders above and along the outside canals take great delight in making fun of and sometimes tossing stuff at the ';romantic couples'; during the ride.';

Well if you flash them, you might get some beads. No, maybe that was the Rio.

Enjoy your ride if you take one. They are not really powered by the oar, they are electric powered.

We did the gondola ride a couple years ago (inside) and enjoyed it. It is a little chessy but hey, we were on vacation. It is not something I would probably go back to do again. As a one time thing go and enjoy!

Some people are not comfortable being pointed and laughed at while they ride by. If this does not bother you go for it.

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Recommend a hotel

Hi All,

I%26#39;d love to hear your recommendations for a hotel in vegas. There are just so many to choose from.....

We have been to Vegas before and stayed in the Luxor, which we really enjoyed, but we%26#39;d like to stay somewhere different this time.

We like a 4 star hotel, good location, good gaming tables, swimming pool, excellent bedroom. We are in our 20%26#39;s so would like a young clientele if possible.

I have been looking at Hardrock Hotel (is this too out of the way?), The Mirage, The Venetian, Wynn??? But I%26#39;m open to all suggestions.

Thanking you.

Recommend a hotel

Wynn abd Venetian are not 4*, they are 5* and more expensive than the others you listed. From what you have said, Mirage would be perfect for you.....great location, awesome pool, very nice facility. You will love it, much nicer and much better location that Luxor. Hard Rock is not on the Strip. Since you are young, TI would also be good for you in the 4* category but their pool is small. It%26#39;s next door to Mirage and they are connected by monorail, stay at Mirage, visit TI is my advice.

Recommend a hotel

It%26#39;s not central on the strip, but my husband and I really liked staying at THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, or Mandalay Bay is fine, too, and we%26#39;re in our late 20s. The rooms at THEhotel are amazing--true suites with a separate living room and bedroom, flat screen TVs everywhere--and the bars, restaurants, casino, pools and crowd at Mandalay Bay are all pretty cool.

Thanks for that, looks like it%26#39;s either the Mirage or Mandalay Bay hmmmmmm ...........

Better off at ';';MIRAGE';';

From reading other replies...I%26#39;d second the ';Mirage'; opinion...it%26#39;s just overall a really nice, great place, and great pool, and a fun mixed crowd of all types.

There seems to be confusion on the forum about 4 and 5 star hotels. Usually, when people refer to Five Star Hotels, they are referring to the Mobil Travel Guide ratings. There are no Mobil Five-star hotels in Nevada based on the 2005 awards. There are two Four-star in Vegas in 2005 - Bellagio and Four Seasons.

There is also the AAA Five Diamond category - only 2 in Vegas are Bellagio and Four Seasons.

I guess Wynn will make the cut next year....

Here are the restaurants as well:

NEVADA

Mobil Four-Star Restaurants Aqua, Las Vegas Aureole, Las Vegas Bradley Ogden, Las Vegas Picasso, Las Vegas Renoir, Las Vegas

the mirage is nice rooms are small bathrooms are tiny...pool is amazing...there is no nightlife. (but being next to caesars TI and Venetian is a defienete plus.

The Hotel is for you...it caters to your age group...rooms are nice. pools are greeat and their is plenty to do at night.

I second Mandalay Bay... the locations isn%26#39;t in the middle of everything, but if you stayed at the luxor you would understand that. But as far as swimming pool, bedrooms and gaming tables, it%26#39;s excellent. Plenty of restaurants and clubs catering to a younger crowd. We are a younger couple in our 20s and are staying there this weekend and cannot wait!

If you already stayed at Luxor, I would definetely go to a different part of the strip.

Trip report: Aladdin and Orleans 7/24-7/29

Will try to make this compact, and not too boring:

Flew from Bellingham to Vegas via Seattle, on Alaska, my favorite airline!

Perfect flight, on time and easy.

Shuttle bus to Thrifty, girl at counter very snotty. Never felt that uneasy to rent a car before. Worried all week about scratching that car and paying for the time it was in the shop. But all worked out, got a Dodge Magnum, $168 with all fees, etc.

Checked into Aladdin, seemless. Husband and I had connecting room with our best friends.

Ate dinner that night at the buffet downstairs, was wonderful. Friends couldn%26#39;t believe people spend that much money on food. (They had never been to Vegas, and don%26#39;t own a computer so they did very little research). Husband and I go 1 or 2 times a yr, so we knew what to expect.

After dinner, drove down the strip and then off the strip to stock up at a grocery store. Booze and water and pop for the week. Wow what a money saver. Styrofoam cooler was the best $2.49 we ever spent.

Day 2- pool time, until noon. Went to Ellis Island for the steak special, the guys were convinced these were the best steaks they had ever had. Gambled some here, funny little place.

Drove and checked out GVR, what a nice place, and Sunset station. Then to the dam to show the other couple. Just wandered around the strip that eve, checked out the Bellagio fountains.

Day 3- Pool in AM, drove out to Suncoast, and my husband wanted to go to some golf courses to see if there were any new golf shirts he could get, as he didn%26#39;t get to golf this trip as this friend is not a golfer, and we wanted to spend time with them.

Dinner at Rio Seafood Buffet with the $10 off coupon, wow saved $40, loved this buffet. Had 3 extra coupons that i had printed off at home, so i gave them to people in line, so someone else could benefit. They were happy people.

Gambled alot this day at Aladdin, only VP and WOF, no way would i play BJ with those rules.

Husband and i walked down to NYNY and redemed our $40 for the espn zone. Were too full from the buffet, we just got an outfit for our 16 y/o daughter. The staff in that little store up front were very put out they had to get us our 6 pack coolers and vouchers. Wandered back through MC and Bellagio.

Day 4- Husband and best friend went on the Look Tours ATV tour and had a good time. P/U 7:00 AM, bus ride, instruction with the bikes, then a 2-2 1/2 hour ride. They are pretty experienced so they were put up front. They had red sand and dirt on them, and everything they were wearing. Had brought jeans and crummy shoes so they wouldn%26#39;t wreck anything. Got the free T-shirt, and are glad they went. Sweet internet deal 145 dollars.

Friend and i just hung around the casino and went to the pool while they were gone.

Ate dinner in the Aladdin mall at the mexican place, we wanted to be close to the V theater, we had tickets to see X that night. Hung around window shopping and then went to get in line for the show.

Luckily we had 2 for 1 tickets, i would never have paid full price for that. I almost got up after the first act, but some other women did, so i didn%26#39;t want to look like a prude like them, so i stayed. I was laughing out loud a couple of times, it was so rediculous. The women are beautiful, but it really is aweful. The men LOVED IT!

Day 5- Pool until 10, then checked out to go to the Orleans. Alaska had changed our flights 2 months ahead of time due to no afternoon flights due to heat or something. I was not going to pay Aladdin what they wanted for that Thursday night, so for $59 we went to the Orleans.

Wow what a great place. Great BJ rules, and people. Clean room, spacious. Tons of kids. There was a basketball tourney all over Vegas, and some of the teams were staying there. The pool area looked great, but too many kids in there. We have kids and love them, but we weren%26#39;t into that, so we stayed inside and gambled. Loved the VP too.

The kids even came into the casino area, thought that was weird, but no one said anything.

One thing that was stupid, was you are not allowed any cans of beer there. We had a few beers left from earlier in the week, and the security guard yelled at me for having a can, and gave me a plastic cup for my beer, i was wondering if there were other things they should worry about than my beer can.

Never left the casino after checking in at noon, so i would rate that pretty good, to hold our attendtion that long.

Gambled until 12AM, early flight.

Day 6- Airport by 8AM, uneventful flight to Seattle, then connect to Bellingham. Slept the whole way home, i was pooped.

Hope it wasn%26#39;t too long, and that i helped someone with info.

We are going back in October for the LV invitational, my husband doesn%26#39;t know yet, i booked it today for a surprise for his 40th birthday. He has always wanted to watch that golf tourney.

Sweet deal on Allegiant direct from Bellingham Wa.

Thanks.

Trip report: Aladdin and Orleans 7/24-7/29

Great review. Thanks!

Trip report: Aladdin and Orleans 7/24-7/29

Great review, thoroughly enjoyed it.

Thanks for the review. Not too long at all. Would you stay at either property again?

yes, the package i booked through Allegiant has us staying at the Orleans. The hotel portion of it worked out to $170 for the Fri, Sat, and Sun nights. Too good to pass up. We always rent a car anyway, my husband will have to drive to Summerlin for the golf tourney anyway.

Hey - We are planning on going to Vegas that same time and my husband was interested in seeing the tournament. Can you tell me anything about tickets for the golf tournament? I found a few on the pgatours website, but don%26#39;t really know anything about it. Thanks.

I recieved info from a post here on Monday. Call 702-242-3000, and they said they are $15 in advance per day, and $20 the day of. Tried to book the Suncoast, but they are booked. Would have been really close. Thurs and Fri are the celeb days with pros, and Sat and Sun are the pro only days.

Best Prime Rib in LV

My Mom and I are heading to LV for the first time in November, and she is a connoisseur of prime rib. For all of you LV veterans, can you give me your thoughts on the best place for prime rib in LV. I don%26#39;t care about the price....I just want to make sure she has her favorite meal while we are there. Thank you!

Best Prime Rib in LV

Landry%26#39;s.

Best Prime Rib in LV

Landry%26#39;s is a seafood restaurant, not prime rib. The best is I have been to is either the Prime Rib Loft @ Orleans, Lawry%26#39;s Prime Rib, or CC Steakhouse. Orleans is very good and very reasonable priced followed by CC steakhouse and Lawry%26#39;s on the high end.

Prime Rib Loft at Orleans has some of the best Prime Rib in town at a great price vs. places like Lawry%26#39;s.

orleanscasino.com/restaurants/prime-rib-loft…

ratelasvegas.com/hotelrest/ratings/r429.html

Pay no attention to jacka$$99, he don%26#39;t know nothin about Las Vegas. As Vegas Homeboy noted, Landrys serves seafood and most of it is lousy seafood. I love Lawrys but I haven%26#39;t eaten at the Prime rib loft yet.

Lawry%26#39;s specialty is prime rib, if your mom is a connoiseur, then go there.

Thanks everyone!! I appreciate the quick response.

I am putting in my two cents...The Prime Rib Loft...is awesome...and reasonable...go for it.. Orleans

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bachelorette party labor day wk...7 girls...what to do?

I am in charge of planning the bachelorette party for a friend over Labor day weekend. I have been to Vegas one time (stayed at the Aladdin)...enjoyed but looking for more trouble this time around :)

Advice on hotels:

Is Luxor or Mandalay Bay too far away from the action? Leaning towards Luxor for the price...not planning on being in the room too much and trying to fit a lot of bodies into a couple of rooms. Want to be able to enjoy the strip during the day.

Nightclubs/Strip clubs:

I saw the groups that organize parties on the web - is it worth it to purchase a group package to get the VIP passes/limo rides or will we have no problems going to the clubs on our own (worried that Labor Day weekend is going to be insanely crowed and don%26#39;t want to wait 2 hrs in line). How much is having 7 single girls going to increase our chances of avoiding lines or getting free VIP passes?

Anyone been to Palomino or Olympic Gardens...which is better for a rowdy group of girls?

Dinner:

Looking for a fun place to kick off the evening festivities- not to expensive but lots of drinks required- thinking of Kahalua (sp?) at TI.

Any advice from anybody who has done the bachelor/bachelorette party thing appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

bachelorette party labor day wk...7 girls...what to do?

no to palomino,

from what is posted, chippendals is show you need to see.

bachelorette party labor day wk...7 girls...what to do?

My wife has been to several bachelorette parties in Vegas. The last one, they made use of the concierge in their hotel (Aladdin). The concierge was able to get them onto all the VIP lists for the clubs they wanted to go to. They got into all of them with minimal wait, including PURE at Caesars.

As for a show, might want to also look into Thunder from Down Under. That is pretty popular.

OG and Sapphires both have areas for girls, and I remember her saying that they got pretty rowdy (which i think is the norm).

Olympic Gardens 2nd floor all the way. WAY FUN!!!! You%26#39;ll have a blast..just brings lots of singles...a few 20%26#39;s for a lap dance er 2...

Hot night clubs: Open Sunday through Thursday

Sunday: Tangerine/TI, Body English/Hard Rock, Light/Bellagio, Ghost Bar/Palms, Risqué/Paris, The Beach

Monday: Rumjungle/Mandalay Bay, Tangerine/TI, Pure/Caesars Palace

Tuesday: Pure/Caesars Palace, Studio 54/MGM, Tabú/MGM, Ghost Bar/Palms

Wednesday: Vivid/Venetian,Tangerine/TI, Studio 54/MGM, Tabú/MGM, Ghost Bar/Palms, Ra/Luxor, Club Rio/Rio, Drai’s/Barbary Coast, BiKiNiS /Rio

Thursday: Rain/Palms, Studio 54/MGM, Tabú/MGM, Vivid/Venetian, Tangerine/TI, Ghost Bar/Palms, Ra/Luxor, Light/Bellagio, Drai’s/Barbary Coast, Club Rio/Rio, Risqué/Paris, BiKiNiS/Rio

What should I wear?

It makes a difference what se# you are when it comes to Las Vegas clubbing. Women get all the advantages! In order to improve the female/male ratio, girls are given a price break or other benefits ...such as ladies night, free to local fems, reduced cover charge, etc.

Unlike most everywhere else in Las Vegas, most dance clubs have dress codes. For women, the dress code is listed as: “Stylish nightlife attire” (which in everyday language means “sexy.”) Most gals at the hot clubs dress to impress; they show a lot of skin and wear ultra-chic, fashionable dresses. The clubs want to be full of very hot girls, high rollers and celebrities, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. The host with the clipboard at the door controls entry ...and he is fussy.

So gals, look the part. Bring a black cocktail dress if you want to go clubbing at the hot lounges. (It can double as a fancy dress for one of those high dollar celebrity chef restaurants.) If you don’t have one, make a trip to Victoria’s Secret before you come to Vegas and get one. (They have many sexy dresses at very reasonable prices: $50-$150. Check out this link: %26lt;http://www2.victoriassecret.com/collection/index.cfm?cgname=OSCLODRSOCC%26amp;cgnbr=OSCLODRSOCC%26amp;rfnbr=1856%26amp;page=all%26gt;)

Luxor will probably be cheaper in room rates as opposed to Mandalay Bay. If they are the same price then I recommend Mandalay Bay, based on overall hotel looks, restaurants, and things to do.

You are right about Labor day weekend in regards to it being crazy packed. How much are these party organizers charging? I have some info in regards to Body English @ Hard Rock.

Palomino and Olympic Gardens - no comment

Dinners - what type of food are you looking for and how much are you willing to spend per person? Are you looking more of drinking then eating?

Respectfully,

Ben

Ben@mecca-entertainment.com

My advice to anyone coming to Vegas on Labor Day weekend is to make your reservations now.

If you are planning on hitting any of the clubs they will be insane, crowded and the lines will be impossible. An example, for Memorial weekend many of the HOT clubs -- like Pure-- stopped letting people in at midnight because they had reached capacity. There were hundreds of people trying to get in and they had to wait more than 2+ hours. (I know-- I was there and one of the few that got in!)

I highly recommend using a VIP service. I come to Vegas often and use the Rockstar Limo Party. Check it out at www.vegasclubncruz.com. They will take care of you!

Good luck!

I think you will feel uncomfortable at the Palomino Club. It%26#39;s old, skanky and in a dangerous part of town.

You%26#39;re probably better off at OG, though not being a girl, rowdy or otherwise, I dunno.

Luxor%26#39;s a good choice-cheaper than Mandalay Bay (it%26#39;s right next door) and the pool%26#39;s not too bad either.

Yes Labor Day weekend will be crowded-check with concierge/casino host to see if you can get VIP passes. Another option is ';Bottle Service'; -call the clubs for details on that.

Labor day weekend should be a blast in Vegas! I%26#39;m staying at the Palms with some friends. If the choice is solely between mandalay bay and luxor and the cost differential isn%26#39;t enormous-- stay at mandalay as it has a much nicer pool. The rooms (all suites) at the Hotel are really spacious.

It%26#39;s been my experience that I wind up taking a cab almost everywhere I go in vegas, so I don%26#39;t really mind staying off the strip. Also, you get a younger crowd at the palms and the hard rock.

You should try staying at caesars if you really want to be near the center of the strip -- easy access to shopping and Pure is one of the current hot spots. As Mandalay is near the end of the strip, it%26#39;s kind of a long walk to the middle of the strip, particularly if its burning outside and the sidewalks are crowded with tourists.

For nightclubs, I suggest calling the clubs directly to see if they have special deals for bachelorette parties. As it%26#39;s a holiday weekend, it could be difficult to get into places, even if the group consists of all girls, if you just show up.

just got back from a bachelor party (guys in late 20s) in vegas last weekend. here%26#39;s the scoop on what i experienced in my second visit to sin city:

hotel - we stayed at venetian. about $320 a night with two queens and a pull out couch. next to ti, wynn and the mirage. i stayed with my wife at luxor last summer. we got upgraded to a suite for free and the pool was hoppin but not overcrowded. it is kind of a haul to the middle of the strip from there or mandalay bay, but if you%26#39;re going clubbin%26#39; there%26#39;s plenty of good spots at mandaly bay. a taxi from mandalay bay to the ventian cost us $12 but you will need wo because the only carry four people max.

strip clubs - any of the places we went to you wouldn%26#39;t be intersted in right??? but i did talk to some girls at vivid who said the olympic gardens were ';out of control.'; i do know that female strip clubs offer to cover your cab fare if you call them directly and ask to pick you up. who knows, it might work for you too?

clubs - pure (at cesars) and vivid (at venetian) are two of the better clubs i%26#39;ve been to in vegas. the line at the mix (the hotel) was too long, but i heard it and ghostbar (the palms) have the best rooftop views of vegas. i%26#39;m not sure about holidays, but i%26#39;ve always believed that girls typically get in free before midnight at most dance clubs. talk with the bartenders at the hotel you decide to stay, they%26#39;re great at making suggestions. a limo from hotel to hotel will probably run you about $40 if you just get it at the hotel door.

oh yeah, stay away from teatro eurobar (at mgm grand). the entire place is about as big as a dorm room and while the music is good the cover charge is a rip off since there is no place to sit or dance.

dinner - rumjungle (at mandalay bay) has good food and a crazy environment. if you eat late enough you could probably hang out since it becomes a kick a** club after 10. house of blues (at mandalay bay) is another option. they had live musice when my wife and i ate there last summer and it was a great place to start the night. we ate at the tequilla bar (sorry don%26#39;t remember the name) inside ti this time and i thought the food and ambieance was pretty good. put it this way, there were several groups of girls sitting around us eating tacos and drinking margaritas.

hope my suggestions help. if anything, don%26#39;t hesitate to ask the concierge at the hotel for VIP tickets to clubs or table reservations at a fun dinner place ... and have a blast because married life sure is a lot slower than the good ole%26#39; days.

Hope you can help

I know you have most likely seen questions like this one so many times but it would be great if you could help.

Which hotel would you say is the best for children and why? 2 boys aged 7 and 10

Vinny

Hope you can help

Take your pick. Excalibur, Orleans, or Circus Circus. They all have things for children to do.

At that age group CC would be a good choice, they have circus acts and an amusement park full of rides. The rooms in the tower are decent and clean. Just do not eat at the buffet.

Orleans has a 16 screen movie theater, massive arcade, bowling alley, and lots of inexpensive food choices that will suit all ages.

Hope you can help

I would choose the Excalilbur. It is set up for kids. They have plenty for children that age to do and they also have kids friendly places to eat. It has a free tram that goes to the Mandalay Bay to see Shark%26#39;s Reef and the tram also goes to the Luxor where they can play in the arcade and see 3-D movies at the IMax theater. All this without having to go outside. You also can go across the street to see Lion Habitat (MGM-free). Across the way you have the roller coaster at NYNY. The Tropicana has a free aerial show a few times a day- this is also across the street. There is a movie theater next to the MGM. Excalibur is on the strip.

I think Mandalay Bay is best for kids particularly because of its pool area (wave pool + lazy river). You can take the free tram from Mandalay to Excalibur for other kids%26#39; stuff. Circus Circus scares me so I can%26#39;t comment on that hotel. Mandalay Bay%26#39;s standard rooms are also relatively large plus you can get even bigger rooms at THEHotel (attached to the Mandalay Bay).

I do not think Mandalay is a good place for small children, maybe teenagers and especially not THEHotel....I am a mom with 2 children and I know they would be bored to death at THEHotel. Besides, that is a place I personally would prefer not to see kids, especially smaller children. It is an upscale hotel and I like to go there and have an ';adult'; experience, that is why I leave my kids at home when I go to vegas. Okay I better shut up before I get too high up on my soap box!

Orleans has a cool child care you can pay for and the kids are safe and they have a lot of fun...my friend took her young daughter..and she still had time for her husband...and time to gamble a bit...they also have a theater..and bowling ally....

I would say Orleans as it is a more ';controlled space'; environment and the smallest of the three. Also, there is nothing directly outside the hotel/casino that might entice them outside without your supervision.

It is very family friendly with pool, bowling, movies, and arcade all within the building. Another plus is that all of the restaurants are very family friendly.

NO WAY would I take my son within a mile of Circus Circus. It might be OK for ';some peoples'; kids, but not mine. I%26#39;ll leave it at that.

Excalibur is much larger and I wouldn%26#39;t take the chance the kids would get loose on the Strip, but it would be an acceptable place to stay if you really want to be on the strip around a bunch of other casinos.

natural remedies for pimple

Cab to Rio

Ladies and Gents,

Heading out to Rio in a about a week. Never took a cab before. Is it actually better to take the tunnel in this case? Also, what kind of money should I be expecting to pay taking the tunnel vs. local across Flamingo? If you could share your experiences, I would appreciate it. Thanks.

Cab to Rio

Yeah, it is. I don%26#39;t know what the difference in price is but it cost a little over $15 there (airport surcharge) and about $12.50 back to the airport.

Cab to Rio

Thanks, Leo. I won%26#39;t get all worked up then, when the driver uses the tunnel.

What time of day?

Coming in on Sunday at 3:30pm. Leaving Tuesday morning. That%26#39;s a great point, I guess during the weekends, the local streets may be significantly worse.

hugo's cellar

I was wondering what the dress code is Hugo%26#39;s. Is a tie required?

hugo's cellar

ties are not required...

hugo's cellar

Only requirement is a wallet stuffed with cash or plastic like any place else in LV.

Wear whatever you are comfortable in. I was there on my last trip and I wore docker shorts and a polo shirt. I got great service!

thanks. I was hoping for casual!

Where shall I stay? Jockey Club or Polo Towers?

Im coming out in Nov from the UK with my elderly Mum..to see Barry Manilow. We can%26#39;t decide between these two...I dont want any construction noise...my Mum isnt too easy going !

Any help/advice would be great !

Cheers, Gladys

Where shall I stay? Jockey Club or Polo Towers?

Aloha, Gladys,

Why are you limited to those two options?

What rates are you getting?

Where shall I stay? Jockey Club or Polo Towers?

Feed MUM a few pints and she will be very happy.

Neither.

If she needs quiet, go Off_ strip to Orleans, Rio, Gold Coast.

get a room away from the lifts.

Stayed at the Jockey Club in late June. It%26#39;s a 1 minute walk from the strip and very quiet. Also, you get a great view of the fountains and free internet thanks to the Belagio next door. If you don%26#39;t want to spend a fortune on food, the rooms also have a full kitchen. I%26#39;ll be staying there again when I go back.

I am staying at Polo Towers in October. Have never been there. Friends did a time share tour previously and said place was beautiful. Oh well, we shall see!!

So Jockey Club %26amp; Polo Towers are real hotels? I always thought they were condos or something different than hotels.

Hi Guys

Thanks for your replies. We%26#39;re after a 2 bed 2 bath as my Mum likes her privacy and so she doesnt want us to share a double at say the MGM...she%26#39;d rather we spend the money on a condo. There are some good rates..looking at $895 for the week. Unfortunately we can ask a fountain room if we go for the JC but nothing definite. We wont have our own car so will rely on transport...my Mum wants to be near everything..but not next to a building site...uuummm...I think we%26#39;ll both be needing the beer ! make mine a large !

cheers, Gladys

Hoover Dam tour

I%26#39;m looking to book a tour to the Hoover Dam for my upcoming trip to LV. Does anyone have any experience with this company?

www.all-las-vegas-tours.com/Body.asp…

Any other tour company recomendations (or warnings) would also be appreciated.

TIA.

Hoover Dam tour

You waste a lot of time when you take a tour. On every one I%26#39;ve taken they pick you up at your hotel then bring you to their depot. You have to wait around until their buses- coming from different parts of the city- arrive. Then you get on different buses for that particular tour. You are on their schedule and on their time. When they say leave you leave. I gave up when I realized it was much easier and nicer to go by car.

Hoover Dam tour

go to look tours and book the comedy hoover dam tour. It was so much fun. We laughed so hard and acted crazy! We had a comedian named Joannie on our mini bus and she was great! After the Hoover Dam, they take you to boulder city at the haunted hotel for lunch and you get to pick from a menu on the bus on your way there. It was worth the money.

RENT a car for the day.

1. allow 45 minutes to get to dam parking.

2. be THERE when the tours start into the dam

3. go down into the dam, interesting

4. proceed to the Valley of Fire, look around

5. head for Red Rock Canyon to the westside of Vegas., look arouind.

6. eat lunch somewhere in between.

7 you will be on expressway all the way.

8 you will be back in time for dinner.

Most of the casinos have car rental desks inside.

ask around.

Hi Jackpot

sounds a good idea...how much for a car for the day inc insurance ?

Cheers, Gladys

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Bellagio pool security

OK so next week Mrs Moonlight and myself are staying at the Bellagio before we get married. On the day of the wedding Mrs M was hoping to spend the morning relaxing by the pool with her Nan. Unfortunately her Nan is staying at a different hotel.

My question is this: if I lend Nan my room key, will she get into the pool area? Or are the keys somehow personalised so that they will be able to tell that she ain%26#39;t me?

(PS, no comments about how this is tantamount to theft, please! She will be borrowing MY sunbed, not stealing anyone elses!)

Bellagio pool security

I think that Nan will be OK with your room key. When I stayed at Bellagio earlier this summer they were pretty strict about checing room keys when entering the pool area, but I don%26#39;t think the key was encoded with any personal information about me.

Bellagio pool security

Wonderful, many thanks.

How come NAN does not get to stay at the Bellagio?

Does NAN have something working on the side after the wedding?

Nans not allowed in the Bellagio since she disgraced herself last time. Hopefully they won%26#39;t recognise her with the disguise on....

when we were wandering the hotel, up near the wedding chapel there is another entrance to the pool (from the back side).. there is actually a small elevator that you can take right down to the pool level. this puts you all the way in the back corner, opposite the pool cafe. no guards whatsoever. we just wandered in.. it wasn%26#39;t until we left through the FRONT area of the pool, where we noticed a guard in a little booth asking for keys.. but since we were leaving, he didn%26#39;t even look up at us.. weird situation.....

ha, ha, ha, my kind of woman.

If Nan flashes your room key she will be fine. They only glance at it.

I have a friend who always stays at Caesar%26#39;s, we take turns going to Bellagio and Caesar%26#39;s pool, not trouble getting in with just my key or hers since there are just the 2 of us, a whole crowd trying to get in with only one key might be a problem though.

Sometimes phrases have different cannotations in UK and US.

What do you mean when you say ';Nan disgraced herself'; ?. If its what I think, I would not want Nan in the Bellagio pool either

I know all about the differences or at least most of them in US vs UK phraseology, I am American but married to a British man and live in London over half of the year!! Quite a learning experience!

server

Only Vegas?

My girlfriend and I are headed to Vegas (for the 4th time) in less than a month. The anticipation is building so much that we went to a local river boat for a buffet and gambling to appease the excitement. Now I remember why I don%26#39;t step foot in most casinos outside of LV: sickness-inducing buffet, casino smokier than a 5 alarm fire, lost our bankroll in less than 30 minutes, and felt sleazy just for being there for an hour.

Is there any place that comes even remotely close to Vegas? Anywere outside the US? Reno? Caribbean? Atlantic City? Etc...?

Only Vegas?

i am always in atlantic city.....i love it there but its no vegas (according to my boyfriend and countless others) but it is a lil get a way, with a lot of casinos and the beach and boardwalk!!

Only Vegas?

Reno is great because it%26#39;s so close to skiing. With that being said, there isn%26#39;t another place on earth that resembles Las Vegas.

Vegas is one of a kind stl !

atlantic city is great,10 casinos on the boardwalk,with great beach bars at almost every casino,3 more casinos 10 minutes away at the marina. atlantic city is shaping up!!!

Laughlin is MUCH more fun than Las Vegas...

Trump still own parts of Atlantic City?

Does anywhere else provide odds better than Vegas? I know the riverboats (and the like) around STL have low limits but bad payback.

Stl---

I haven%26#39;t been to a mainland casino outside of LV in a long time....but for my money if you have to gamble and want to get away from the riverboat sleaze I suggest Aruba...

You can still lose your bankroll in 30 minutes but the food there is great and the beaches and ocean make the trip worthwhile even if you don%26#39;t bet a dime.

Now granted the casinos are smaller and they don%26#39;t have the show and spectacle of Vegas...(the evening light show might just be a spectacular sunset and the Southern Cross) but there%26#39;s lots of other stuff to do...

Only in name----his casinos are deep in dept and the investors are steaming mad.. Atlantic city is great in the summer with all the beach bars, ocean views.. bums on the boardwalk. Weekend rates get very expensive

We usually go to Tunica 1 or 2 times a year. It%26#39;s nothing like Las Vegas but it beats all the Casinos in the St Louis area and you can drive there.

24fan...I bet Aruba gambling is a good substitute for LV gambling. I would be willing to trade some mega pools and excitement for beaches and relaxation.

PMleich...How far is Manhattan from Atlantic City and is it easy to get to without a car? Should be in NY in December and may have time to head out there.

Cub1Fan...I%26#39;ve heard mixed reviews of Tunica, but it sounds like a big gambling location. BTW, I%26#39;ll be in your kneck of the woods next weekend for a classic Cubs/Cards series. Best of luck to your boys in blue.

deep fried twinkie

please please expalan to a dumb english blonde what one of these is thanks

deep fried twinkie

A twinkie is a mass-produced yellow pastry with an artificial cream-like filling. It is a single serving, very sweat.

County fairs and Mermaid%26#39;s Casino in Vegas will deep fry these things in animal fat and sprinkle powdered sugar on them before serving. They a very rich and very bad for you. But they taste good.

deep fried twinkie

http://www.twinkieshop.com/

A twinkie is a small loaf shaped golden sponge cake with white filling ( like a craem frosting ).

These are frozen, a stick in insteted for a handle then dipped in a sweet batter and deep fried in oil.

So good...... either way

I still think %26#39;Deep Fried Twinkie'; sounds like something you would need emergency medical treatment for :-)

Oh no!! They would be one of the most delicious things you%26#39;ve ever eaten, quite sinful!!

A heart attack on a stick.

If you eat a well balanced diet, it won%26#39;t do any harm to indulge a little on vacation. I eat mostly fish and chicken, lots of vegetables and fruit as my usual daily diet, but on holiday, I do indulge a bit, rarely gain more than a pound if that. It%26#39;s only a %26#39;heart attack on a stick%26#39; if eaten on a regular basis.

We%26#39;re sorry, but this topic has wandered into non-travel-related subject matter, so we%26#39;ve closed it to any further posts. To continue this discussion, TripAdvisor invites you to use our Off-topic forum:

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Please note that Off-topic chatter is a forum for discussions gone afield from the topic of travel. Although non-travel-related topics are allowed, posts in the Off-topic forum must otherwise meet TripAdvisor%26#39;s Forum guidelines:

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Which bus goes into Dowtown?

We%26#39;re at the Riviera and will probably take a bus into downtown - does any one which ones take us there?

TIA!

Which bus goes into Dowtown?

Hi, both the 301 and 302 CAT buses do. There is a stop right outside the Riv and for when you come back opposite at Westward Ho. $2 a ride or $5 for a 24 hour pass so you can use it as many times as you like. Both run the entire length of the strip, the 302 is the express which makes fewer stops on route, although it is good for your hotel.

Which bus goes into Dowtown?

You will find that the busses on the strip to and from downtown are scheduled about every 5 minutes.

The schedules are here:

http://catride.com

302 is best less stops, good service every 10 mins till midnight

your thought on las vegas hilton ( near convention center)

.

your thought on las vegas hilton ( near convention center)

Very tired property.

your thought on las vegas hilton ( near convention center)

We stayed in the north tower, nice large room with a decent view of the strip. Dining options very expensive, except for the buffet. Buffet itself was average, not bad, but not great. Casino except for the star trek end could use some updating. Not bad vp in the sports book area. Monorail very convenient. Pool ok, at least it isn%26#39;t packed. The only thing that was annoying was having to go somewhere else to eat if we didn%26#39;t eat at the buffet. For instance, ate at the coffee shop. I had a bagel, glass of juice. Husband had an omelet breakfast, glass of juice. With tip, it cost over $25 bucks for just that. Sorry, I guess i%26#39;m too cheap.

Not the best hotel to stay in Vegas. Hotel looks nice, but rooms are not great looking. Same room as you would get if you were staying at Ramada or something similar. Hotel is TOO far from everything. The only place we could walk to was Circus Circus so the rest of the time we would take a cab to the strip and walk the strip, then take a cab back to Hilton.

how much to rent a car?

Just wondering how much it is approx. to rent a mid-sized car? Planning on going Sept 2-5, so for about 4 days. and Where to rent? Any info would be great!!

how much to rent a car?

Check out Dollar. I got a great rate on a midsize car -$14.99 per day.

how much to rent a car?

im a 23 year old british citizen with a full driving licence. would i be ok to rent a vehicle while in LV. another problem i have is im only used to driving manual geared cars and have never driven an automatic(although im told its like a go-kart).

Check online and also call too. Price tend to be different at both end, shop around first before you book one. Price are range from $14 to $19 a day depending on the size of the car.

Schminky - You might want to check up on the under 25 age rules. I guess you can say a automatic is like driving a go-cart, but much safer.

was a little worried about that as the minimum in the uk is usually 23. will probably just take my licence with me and just make some queries when there.

The rules vary with each company for age restrictions, etc. I would go to each website Dollar, Hertz, etc. to check out what the rules are before you get there so that you know which companies not to even try to rent from. Example: some ask for an extra $15 per day insurance because you are under 25, that is on top of the rental rate and other insurance you may need (collision, etc.).

i too am only 23 years old. At Budget I think I read you have to be over 21. So it might be okay there, not sure if that applies to most of car rentals. I am going Labour day weekend, so you think they will jack up the prices?

Get your best price online then go to priceline.com and under cut it. Worked for me. I got a much nicer car than a full size for less money. 21/day

I also got mine on Priceline. It was $12 a day and I upgraded to a mid sized for $14 a day.

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hair straightener

are most of the bj tables now 6:5???

I thought I read about that earlier, and now I%26#39;m reading a bj strategy book (no funny jokes boys, you know i mean blackjack) and the big disadvantage 6:5 is. I%26#39;ve always been a bit of an ametuer player so I%26#39;m trying to educate myself ( you know, since it%26#39;s MY money I%26#39;m throwing away, lol). Where are the casinos with the best rules?--either on the strip or downtown.

Also, do any casinos let you resplit or double down on splits?

are most of the bj tables now 6:5???

Most of the 6:5 tables were single or double hand tables. Which alot of the hotels are making a majority of the BJ tables. You can still find 2:1 for 6 deck and continuous shuffle. I do not play 6:5

As far as I know they still let you resplit once and double down on splits

are most of the bj tables now 6:5???

Wow they have 2:1 in Vegas?? Those are really good odds! I figured if I was lucky 3:2, which would make me happy.

Yeah I don%26#39;t want to play 6:5 either--*where* are the good bj tables?

There is no 2:1 blackjack in Vegas. It is 3:2 on tables that use a shoe.

getting a little confused....anyone know if most hotels downtown have 3:2 with the shoe?

Not much knowledge regarding BJ on the strip, but know most of the places/rules downtown. I am not aware of any 6:5 games downtown. When Harrah%26#39;s took over the Horseshoe several years ago, they were paying 6:5 on single deck. I believe it is now back to 3:2. Four Queens has a variety--single deck to eight deck. Lots of double deck to be found, shoe games, and some single deck at most of the downtown casinos. The Plaza probably has some of the most liberal rules downtown. You can always find $5.00 tables available (except at the GN).

In addition to The Plaza, Las Vegas Club has very liberal BJ rules including splitting aces up to four times.

El Cortez deals single deck 3:2 :)

Thanks for the responses everyone! I didn%26#39;t think there would be 2:1 in Vegas, unless it was a limited time promotion of some sort. Thanks for the input on the different casinos...will definately check them out.

sorry my bad. meant 3:2 ------losing my mind

Want to prebook a limo to take us from airport to hotel.

Anyone ever call ahead for a limo, saw one time awhile back

that they hold up a sign at baggage claim with your name on it.

I don%26#39;t want my husband to know till we see the sign, but Im the worlds worst secret keeper.

We will be arriving late Sept. 1st but I thought our first view of the strip in a limo would be great!

How long is the minimum for a limo? Might have him stop at

a store to pick up some bottled water, Im bringing a collaspable

zip cooler, as I heard Vegas tap water is a little smelly?

Want to prebook a limo to take us from airport to hotel.

Went to the search info. Then went to some websites, think

I will just see who%26#39;s hanging around and take my chances.

Want to prebook a limo to take us from airport to hotel.

Rented a limo last trip to Vegas to surprise husband. Used Presidential Limo and booked online--I think it was 5% discount booking that way. Arranged for the driver to be there (with sign) 1/2 hour after landing time to allow for getting our baggage. Booked for one hour and the price was around $55.00. Hope this helps.

When you get to the airport just tell the cab man outside the baggage clame that you want one of the 40/hr. limos. He will get ya one with no problem.

Thanks for the information, think I better prebook as he would

think that it was stupid to spend extra $ for a limo.

You know how men can be....

But im glad you mentioned the 30 min. to retrieve our luggage.

We don%26#39;t want an extra charge for that.

Hi,

My Mam has booked me a limo pick up as a birthday present through A1 Las Vegas Limos.

We%26#39;ve got the Presidential Airport Transfer with 30 Minute Strip Tour

Airport Transfer with 30 Minute Strip Tour

Complimentary Champagne

1 Long Stem Rose

See the Fabulous Las Vegas Strip

Available to Any Strip Hotel or Downtown Hotel

a1-las-vegas-limos.com/Limousine_Specials.ht…

Can%26#39;t wait!

Hey barbiegirl - Can you let us know what you think of A-1? I%26#39;m going in January for my 30th birthday and would love to book a limo for a tour.

I contacted our hotel%26#39;s (Venetian) concierge, who booked a limo for us that will pick us up at the airport. We%26#39;ll be using Ambassador Limousine. Might want to give your hotel a call and see if their concierge will do the same for you. Hey, they%26#39;re there to help you...might as well use them! ;o)

Hi gayleonthenet,

No probs. We%26#39;ll be in Vegas from 12th to 16th September. We aren%26#39;t back home til 1st October but will let you know how it was.

:o)

Barbie

Anyone taking an August trip to LV???

I know it%26#39;s a bit early, but just seeing if anyone was going to vegas late August to party. We%26#39;re just a lonely group of broads looking to shake things up!! Joiners, joiners????

Anyone taking an August trip to LV???

Hey Ranch...

We%26#39;re heading to Vegas in Aug. (7-12) LET%26#39;S PARTY!!!!!

Anyone taking an August trip to LV???

will be in vegas aug 20-25th =)

We%26#39;ll be there from the 15-19

Nothing like lonley ';broads'; in Vegas.

No final plans here yet, but I%26#39;m still considering late Aug. Whats the age range of you ladies? We are guys from early 20%26#39;s to early 40%26#39;s.

Matt

A batchelor party of 15 dudes from Texas will be staying at the Flamingo on 8-26 to 8-29. We are from age 30 to 45. Woo Hoo !!!!

me me me!! my 2 older sisters and I are going Aug. 12-17!!! can%26#39;t WAIT!!!

I%26#39;ll be there Aug 15-18!

Hey Porcupine,

That sounds like a blast. JUST what we%26#39;re looking for. :) What are your plans for the trip? That%26#39;s a lot of guys to keep happy! Are you all coming from Texas?

We%26#39;ll be there two weeks tomorrow, 10-17 Aug,

Me and my boyfriend will be there 8/18-8/22. We%26#39;re planning on hitting Gilley%26#39;s in the New Fronteer for the Bikini Bull Riding contest, Tangarine, Light and Rain. Can%26#39;t wait! BTW were both 26.

Getting the Best Rate At Hotel - What About Calling...

I%26#39;m curious if anyone has had any luck getting a hotel to match or beat quotes from online reservations outlets like Expedia or Travelocity? Hubby and I just decided we HAVE to go to Vegas over Labor Day (Sat. thru Mon), but of course, quoted prices are sky-high for Saturday night stay, if they%26#39;re available at all (most insist you stay on Friday night as well, which we can%26#39;t).

The Hilton looks like the best value, best quote of avg. $94 for three nights through Travelocity for standard room. Is there any chance if I call they%26#39;ll beat the rate, or even upgrade the room for the same price? I%26#39;d like to know if they%26#39;ll laugh and slam down the phone before I call. Should I talk to Reservations, or ask for another department? Thanks!

Getting the Best Rate At Hotel - What About Calling...

Go on the to the hotel%26#39;s sites itself.....I usually get very good rates there... calling they usually dont beat the rate (although I heard Orleans does have a rate guarentee)

Getting the Best Rate At Hotel - What About Calling...

I did and the rate for the same dates was more than Travelocity ($14 all together) plus it didn%26#39;t say what the total in tax and fees would be.

Any other website that might do better that you know of (althought not blind auction like Priceline)?

The Orleans does have rate guarantee. The hotel website will tell you upfront if the it does. If you have a players card for any casinos in Vegas already, make sure you provide that info when you call. Just having a card can get you a better rate at times no matter how much you played.

It is a little late in the game for good holiday rates. Just be sure you book soon because it only going to get worse.

Check out: www.betterbidding.com Although I%26#39;ve never used this page, many others in the TA forums highly recommend it for helping with the bidding process.

Occupancy rates in Vegas this summer have been right around 95-99% per VegasHotelManager and other reports.

Therefore, making last minute plans for the last summer holiday weekend is a very bad idea if you are looking for a good hotel room rate. The WORST day to arrive for any holiday weekend stay is Saturday.

A much better idea is to go either go a few days before or after the holiday. You are likely to save 50% or more on hotels on those dates.

Call the hotel reservation number directly or the hotel website you are interested in for the best rates. Good luck.

Go to travelaxe - it serches 10 or 12 travel sights and will give you the best price for all of them.

I second travelaxe. I have stayed at one hotel but got my room through 2 different sources. I just tell them when I check in and they connect the two reservations so I only have one check in.

vegas to zion

Can anyone tell me how long it takes from Vegas to Zion National Park? Thinking of making it a day trip. Thanks for your help.

vegas to zion

We went to Zion and Bryce in one LONG day. Left at Noon (big mistake) and got back around 10pm. Probably spent less than an hour at each park.

Road back from Zion was VERY dangerous as it was two lane road with millions of deer running across at dusk and after. Rather than hurry up and back in a day I%26#39;d rec. staying one night there.

vegas to zion

Will be doing the drivefrom Vegas to Springdale in October but staying for a few nights. Most of it is on Interstate 15 to just past St. George, then on Hwy 9 to Zion. I understand it takes around 3 hours to drive. :)

Ooops - sorry didn%26#39;t see steve%26#39;s post! :)

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Celine Dion - which is best??? help!

Hi,

Can anyone tell me the best way to get tickets for Celine Dion-A new day?

I know I should book in advance and these are the options I have explored so far - (i%26#39;m very confused!)

Ticketmaster - they have tickets in front orchestra but right to one side (block2) $200+

- they also have tickets in the centre BUT at the rear orchestra stalls (3 rows from back) $150

Vegas.com - they have %26#39;drink packages%26#39; where you get a drink and seats in front orchestra BUT they don%26#39;t tell you where... $250

What is best? I%26#39;m confused! I%26#39;ve been saving up to come and see the show so I want to have really good seats. Is there another way to get tickets that I don%26#39;t know about? help!

Celine Dion - which is best??? help!

Have u tried the casino box office?

Celine Dion - which is best??? help!

Well, i%26#39;m not actually in Vegas at the moment but i%26#39;ve been to the Ceasers Palace webpage but they just divert you to ticketmaster and the result is the same.

Does anyone think its worth waiting till i get there cos in London, they release some seats on the day - you have to be there around 5pm to get them. Does this happen?

Definately dont wait until you get there.

I would take rear orchestra.

Join the Celine Dion club at www.Celinedion.com. You will receive discounted tickets AND preferred seating. We had 6th row center seats. They were fabulous!!!

Has anyone who have been to the show sat in/near to these seats?

Is it worth paying the extra for the front orc (on the side) or is the show just as good at the back (middle)

also - has anyone booked through vegas.com? (drink package)

I can tell you that if you are facing the stage, to the right side in the Orchestra section is where the piano player is. He is not on the stage. He is directly in front of the seats on that side of the stage, Orchestra section. So, it may be harder to see everything that%26#39;s going on from that side. She also tends to play more to the center and to the left side. I dont%26#39; even remember her coming over to the right side of the stage at all. So if you are going to get Orchestra sections, you should get the seats to the left. As I said, though, if you want the best seats get them through the teamceline.com website by joining the club.

If you get center seats across the isle, those are good seats and you%26#39;re able to take in the full picture. You%26#39;re just not able to see the entertainers as clearly, but you still get a fantastic visual.

As one of the earlier posts suggested, join Team Celine. That%26#39;s the best way to get seats. I use Team Celine as well. I always like to sit up front and center because I do like the perfect view of Celine.

It%26#39;s a great show.

Have fun!

SPARKI

Thanks everyone.

Especially that tip about not sitting on the right hand side! Its great to have advice like that from someone who has seen the show.

I%26#39;m off to join teamceline now! Do i get a t shirt?....

Hi. Each to their own on this one. Obviously get the best tickets you can afford. I have seen the show 4 times, the most recent a couple of weeks ago, Team Celine probably would have saved me a few pennies considering the number of tickets I have purchased however, I have never used them. They do get an allocation of seats and they do go on sale a couple of weeks before Ticketmasters go on sale to the general public. But if they are unsold they go up for sale on Ticketmaster which is why on 3 of the 4 occasions we have been we have managed to buy tickets which are initially reserved for Team Celine members on Ticketmaster. Just to let you know that the Team Celine seats are not exclusive and you can get hold of them without joining the fan club.

Yes, COXY is correct, Team Celine seats do become available if they%26#39;re not sold out, but you%26#39;ll need to keep checking the box office or ticketmaster to find out when they%26#39;re available.

I like to get my great seats and be done with it.

I%26#39;ve seen her show several times and I%26#39;ve been able to save about $300.00 throughout the last two years. Your savings per ticket will be about, $18.40 US Dollars.

If you only see her show once, your savings will be minimal because of the fee it takes to join Team Celine. I%26#39;d say it%26#39;s worth it because you know you%26#39;ll be within the first 7 rows, center stage.

No T-Shirt, though. Probably a trinket of some sort. I have just recieved a pen and calculator for renewing.

TAKE CARE City Chick!

SPARKI

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Where is KA on?

Where is Ka on and is it worth seeing compared to mystere and O

thanks..

Where is KA on?

KA is at MGM.

If you prefer acrobatics then Mystere or O are both far superior.

If you like good music, dance, and a story then KA is for you.

Where is KA on?

Stay away from Zumanity at NYNY

Mandalay Bay or Mirage in October?

I am visiting Las Vegas in October and I was wondering which hotel is better to stay at, the Mandalay Bay or Mirage (both cost around $200 a night)?? Additionally is it even worth it to stay at one of these hotels or is it better to get a cheaper hotel and then just check out the attractions these hotels have to offer?? What benefits do you get by staying at the hotel is what I guess I%26#39;m asking. Thanks.

Mandalay Bay or Mirage in October?

I like the mandalay bay at pool time but otherwise it is too far from the center of the strip so I would go with the mirage in october, I think the best Value is in a 3 and 4 star hotels. When you go down in price you lose a lot for the money, especially midweek when the prices are pretty close. $200 seems a little high must be a weekend or a big convention, you could check out Treasure Island prices or something like ballys or the monte carlo but I would not drop to the 2 star area

Mandalay Bay or Mirage in October?

We Just Got Back And stayed At Mandalay it%26#39;s at the end of the strip. But We took the Tram and then walked and took a taxi. Its A nice Place to stay. Nice Rooms

Mirage will be the better deal in October.

Keep checking prices, unless you will be there on the weekend.

We just booked at The Venetian for 149.00 a night..The are all suites!

If you are willing to pay 200.00 for either the Mirage or Mandalay Bay, why not do the Venetian for less?

Thanksgiving dinner ...

Can anyone recommend the best restaurant to have a good Thanksgiving dinner?

Thanksgiving dinner ...

Any of the popular buffets will do. They will have about the same menu. For value and selection try Orleans, it is inexpensive and very good food.

OF course if you must stay on the strip, just stick with ones like Bellagio, Alladin, Wynn, etc at thrice the price.

Thanksgiving dinner ...

In addition to the buffets, many of the hotel restaurants will also offer a Thanksgiving Special, turkey with all the fixin%26#39;s. There should be no shortage of places, and Vegas isn%26#39;t very crowded (for a long holiday weekend) at Thanksgiving.

NYNY room suggestions

Hi, I was wondering if anyone can give me any advice on what room location/level to request. We have booked a Park Ave room, are they all located in one tower? A bit concerned we will be stuck in a room miles away from everything (I figure we%26#39;ll be walking enough in Vegas without having to trek to the closest elevator!). Not bothered about rollercoaster noise cause we won%26#39;t be sleeping til late, main priority is a good view of the strip (first time in Vegas, so would love that). Thanks!

NYNY room suggestions

There were several different towers. Request a high floor with a strip view. It seemed like the various rooms were scattered throughout. We stayed in the Century tower-great view!

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Venetian vs Venezia new tower

Any opinions on which to stay in. Heard long walking distance from new Venezia tower.

Venetian vs Venezia new tower

I stayed in the most basic Venezia room last May and in a basic Venetian room in July %26#39;05 and enjoyed both stays a great deal.

The Venezia tower is more of a trick to get to due to a longer walk and extra elevator ride. They also provide a separate check-in area and turn down service, complete with chocolates and the rooms are also a bit larger than those in the original tower. Beyond those things I found the rooms to be quite similar. Both offered large rooms with sunken sitting areas, two television sets, large bathrooms with walk in showers, soaking tubs, double sinks, a vanity with lighted make up mirror and a separate room for the toilet.

I think most people would enjoy a stay in either tower.

Venetian vs Venezia new tower

I have been intetrested in the diffeernce also. Leaving next week and do not have Venezia tower reservations but was curious if a upgrade would be worth it for the newer tower. The walking would be just fine by me, I walk almost everyday anyway and would enjoy the opportunity to walk off more calories. Is the turn down service %26amp; chocolates included in all the Venezia tower rooms or just the concierge floors? Can%26#39;t wait to leave, 5 days and counting!

Turn down service and chocolates for all floors in the Venezia tower.

You can ask for a Venezia tower room on check-in even if you booked a Venetian tower room. We did and were given a Venezia room with no additional charge.

Country Girl...I%26#39;ll be at the Venetian from the 7-11th, too! Maybe I%26#39;ll see you around the pool? Have a good time!!

Turn down service, breakfast goodies, and drinks in the afternoon! I am going to try for the Venezia tower. Its our 10th anniversary so maybe we can get the newer tower if we ask real nice.

Country Girl, drinks and breakfast are for the Concierge Levels only, not for the whole tower.

Sometimes, the hotel will upgrade someone to the Concierge Level rooms for free, but I think you have to pay to get upgraded to the Concierge Level SERVICES --namely, the lounge, the breakfast, snacks, drinks, etc.

I paid for Concierge once, but it was not worth it TO ME. But a lot of people feel it is worthwhile.

I think the ';old'; tower is just as nice, and it is a lot easier to get to and from my room with only one elevator ride, and a much shorter walk.

Ok, so now I know the difference. Even if there is no upgrades available I know I will enjoy either tower.