Las Vegas Grand Cayon Tour Company

Has anybody taken one of their South Rim Deluxe Air and Helicopter all day tours? Would like to get idea what kind of service they provide.

Las Vegas Grand Cayon Tour Company

Las Vegas GC Tour Co. is a booking agency, like a travel agency. The tours are provided by other companies, and may not always be the same. Reviews vary on all the tours mostly because circumstances often cause delays and other problems. I usually recommend that people use actual providers such as Scenic Airlines, Grand Canyon Airlines and Papillon Helicopters. They all offer the tour which you want.

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short helicopter trip over the canyon.

i heard or read somewhere that that there are helicopter trips that only take a couple of hours and not all day.i am looking for info on these tours as i am only in vegas for a few days.can anyone help?

short helicopter trip over the canyon.

Many companies do a half day trip to GC. They land at one of the rims for half an hour.

Try Sundance or Maverick. Book upon your arrival in LV.

short helicopter trip over the canyon.

If you%26#39;re going to spend the money, and especially since you%26#39;re coming from Ireland, see the real canyon in Grand Canyon Natl Park. There are lots of heli and air tours that fly over the canyon. Tours that ';land on the rim'; are not in GCNP. If you can spend more time, most tour providers have a coach tour on the ground in the park which allow you to see more of the park.

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Virgin America Airlines Buy 1 Get 1 Free- select cities

Didn%26#39;t see this posted... deal sounds hot like it may sell out. Wording taken from a popular deal site.

Virgin America Airlines is offering a free companion ticket on all of its flights using coupon code DIGGNATION.

1. Select the cities you want to fly between.

2. Select your departure and return dates.

3. Make sure you select 2 people to travel. You have to have 2 people on your itinerary to take advantage of this promo. If you want to travel with more people, multiple bookings--with 2 people per itinerary--may be made using the same DIGGNATION promo code.

4. Click the ';Got a Promo Code?'; link and enter DIGGNATION and click ';Apply';.

5. Click ';Search Flights'; and complete your booking.

6. Enjoy your Virgin America experience.

The offer is valid between following destinations:

* Las Vegas, NV (LAS)

* Los Angeles, CA (LAX)

* New York, NY (JFK)

* San Diego (SAN)

* San Francisco, CA (SFO)

* Washington, DC (IAD)

link:

www.virginamerica.com/va/search.do鈥?/a>

Virgin America Airlines Buy 1 Get 1 Free- select cities

Sounds good will check it out

Virgin America Airlines Buy 1 Get 1 Free- select cities

CRAP they don%26#39;t fly out of Canada!!!

Thanks. Great deal. Unfortunately, their flights are not great but for the price it might be worth it.

Also if you are a single, before March 19th you can get 25% off the fare by using ELEVATE25 in the promo code box. You must buy the ticket by Dec. 7th. There are blackout dates, but you can buy as many tickets for as many trips that you want to take before the expiration date. I booked a couple of trips and saved about $120.00 total versus Southwest prices. Plus you get seat assignments, Vegas mood lighting, and inflight entertainment in the seatback in front of you.

Grand Canyon Questions. Please throw in your suggestions

I am travelling for the first time to Vegas this Feb. I had questions about driving to Grand Canyon. I am planning to stay a night there.

Questions are:

1. I am thinking of driving to the West Rimm because of the Skywalk. However people are suggesting to go the Southern Rimm coz its a better experience. Can someone throw some light on it?

2. Irrespective of where we go, I am wondering whether we should leave Vegas in the evening and spend the night near the Canyon and enjoy the early morning O leave Vegas early morning and spent the entire day there ( no early morning view ) and then spend the night and come back to Vegas next morning. Suggestions

3. Please suggest a motel near both these rimms. Not too expensive, but not too shady either. around the 100 range?

Thanks.

Grand Canyon Questions. Please throw in your suggestions

Teh West Rim is not as impressive as the South Rim there is not alot there and you get ripped off !

I have done both the South Rim there and back in a day and stayed the night. We are staying the night there Xmas Eve we are staying at the Maswik Lodge (not our firstchoice but all that was available) for $70 for the night, previously we have stayed at the Bright Angel lodge for about the same money and I think a better chance. We allways stay in the park as we want to be close to the canyon when we get up and also we find that lodging there is cheaper than anywhere outside that is close by, the one problem staying in the park is once the ligh goes there is very little to do. Beneath is the link to the official lodging in the park.

Have fun

SEW

grandcanyonlodges.com/Lodging-Overview-411.h鈥?/a>

Grand Canyon Questions. Please throw in your suggestions

West rim: After droving over 20 miles of very rough dirt road you come to a small tourist trap. OK.........the sky walk is cool but that is it.

South rim: Many more options. Stay in the park if you can get a room. Just out side the park is more expensive (about double). Williams, Az. is 60 mile south with inexpensive motels and usually the choice for people on a tight budget.

Drive up at night and spend as much of the next day as you can at the canyon. This will also give you time to look at park literature and make some plans and get partially aclimated (you will be at 8500 ft. at the south rim).

I was told by old timers that the best view of the canyon was one mile down the bright angel trail. The problem with that is you then have to walk one mile UP the bright angel trail.

You can%26#39;t possibly see every thing in one day so don%26#39;t try. Take you time and take lots of pictures. I can almot guarantee you will be back a second time to see more.

The West Rim is not part of Grand Canyon National Park, it is private Indian land. You will get a lot more information by going to the Arizona forum, then go to Grand Canyon National Park forum, then click on the sticky at the top of the column. It will give you web sites and a lot of information about GCNP.

Try the Grand Canyon forum

tripadvisor.com/ShowForum-g143028-Grand_Cany鈥?/a>

Spending an overnight at the Canyon is the best way to see it. It is a 4-5 hour drive each way, so leaving Vegas in the evening means a long drive in the dark. I would definately make the drive during the day.

Try to get room in the park. Thunderbird, La Kachina, and El Tovar are all on the rim. The first two are the more reasonably priced, El Tovar is the oldest, classiest, and most historic. But it is more expensive and the rooms are tiny. They often sell out months in advance, but I have gotten a room that was cancelled the week of my visit. Keep checking back. If you cannot get a room in the park , then stay in Tusyan, right outside the gate. I%26#39;ve stayed in both the Grand Hotel and the Quality Inn, they are both fine. You are talking about February, which should be a slower time so getting a room should be less of a problem. You might even luck out and get to see the Canyon brushed with snow. I have not seen that yet. Have a great trip.

Thanks all for the suggestions. Please keep them coming.

I wasd worried about driving in the dark and it seems like it is not a good idrea. I was thinking of doing the Hoover Dam and Valley of fire during the day and then drive off to the Canyon. If we et up early enough we may still be able to do the Hoover Dam and VOF vy 12 or 1 and then drive to Canyon and be there by 5 or 6.

Do you guys thinks thats possible. I want to take the full tour of the dam, go down and stuff. VOF I just wanna drive around.

Thanks again

As part of a road trip on the way TO Las Vegas, I went to North Rim Grand Canyon. That was awesome. It is less visited there, so less people. There are hikes and a lodge to visit, and maybe get a meal. They have cabins you can rent, but you have to book early. WE ended up staying at Parry%26#39;s Lodge in Kanab Utah because we didn%26#39;t book in advance at all. Since you are travelling from Vegas, I guess South Rim would be closer and maybe more what you are looking for... I would suggest as others did to go to South Rim over the West Rim skywalk. It is an extra expense and you can%26#39;t stay there that I know of, so you would then drive back to Vegas or stay somewhere else.

Pretty sure the North Rim is closed until about May, due to snow.

Check the Grand Canyon forum!

I would drive over Hoover Dam on the way to Grand Canyon, save Valley of fires for another time, it is worth getting to the GC as early as possible and see the sunset!! Leave Vegas early, plan on arriving at GC by 2pm so you can check into your hotel and also see the sunset.

Staying inside the park is great, but there are chain motels/hotels in Tusayan, a few miles south of the park. You can then see the sunrise the next morning, have a nice breakfast and then head back to Vegas.

Thanks for the messages. Does anyone know if there is a fixed time when you can go in the Hoover Dam. I really want to take the inside tour of the dam. But it seems like you can only take this tour at 2PM. If thats that case then I cant do the dam tour while going to GC. Anyone??

Please Help us plan a trip to Vegas

Hello fellow travellers,

My wife and I are planning to spend our first year marriage anniversary anniversary in Vegas. This is the first trip to Vegas for both of us. We plan to enjoy Vegas as well as goto Grand Canyon and other placed close to Vegas ( Hoover Dam etc. )

Details: We are planning to be there on the night of 19th Feb and leave on 26th evening. So we have almost 6 and a half days.

We want to stay almost 4 days on the strip and the rest 3 nights we will probably stay in a smaller motel ( for cost reasons ) as well as because we will be traveling to nearby places outside Vegas.

My questions are:

1. How do you think we should divide our trip ?

I am thinking we will stay on the strip fom 19th night to 22nd night on the strip and then from 23rd we start traveling to other places. However we will miss the weekend which I guess is not a good idea.

How do you suggest we adjust our schedules

2. Will one day be enough for the trip to Grand Canyon considering we rent a car, start early in the morning and stay in a motel close the canyon.

3. Will a day be enough for going to Hoover Dam and other closeby places?

I will be updating this posting with what else we plan to do and if you guys can throw in your inputs and help us manage the trip, it will be really helpful.

Thanks in Advance.

Please Help us plan a trip to Vegas

my advice would be to stay on the strip during the week because the hotel will be much less expensive weekdays v. on the weekend.

For anything off the strip, I have no idea, but if this is your first trip and you don%26#39;t want to break the bank (plus you probably want something a little less crazy if you are planning a bit of romance), check out Monte Carlo. Bally%26#39;s also has good rates I think

Please Help us plan a trip to Vegas

Las Vegas hotel rates are much different than they are in other places! Rates are much less expensive Sun-Thurs night than they are on Fri-Sat nights. Rates on those nights can double or triple from the weeknight rates.

You say affordable, but that means different things depending on what type of budget you have. How much are you thinking of spending per night while staying on the strip?

I don%26#39;t think it%26#39;s as big of a deal if you miss a weekend stay in Vegas. During the week is cheaper and just a tad bit less crowded.

Unless, you want to go to a club or a lounge and want lots of people around you then during the week is great.

Yes, avoid the strip rates on the weekend if you can.

Consider the Paris hotel, since you are celebrating your anniversary. Looking over at the Bellagio fountains is always romantic , it%26#39;s not overly expensive and it%26#39;s a good location for exploring the strip.

One day may be enough for a trip to the Grand Canyon if you just want to look over the rim. Time your viewing for sunrise or sunset for the best colors.

You can get to Hoover Dam from the strip in an hour or two, depending on the traffic. You don%26#39;t need to plan on staying overnight to see it. Traffic really backs up over the dam, particularly on weekends, as there is a security checkpoint before you get to it.

You could combine Hoover Dam with your trip to the Grand Canyon and just keep driving to Arizona - maybe spend the night in Williams before spending the day at the Canyon.

here are some nice hotels with a great location that don%26#39;t cost very much: harrah%26#39;s, bill%26#39;s gambling hall (used to be called barbary coast), bally%26#39;s, flamingo. make sure you see the bellagio fountains at night. they have a free show like every 15 minutes at night, until midnight. it%26#39;s awesome, especially since you%26#39;ve never seen it. try to go to the Luxor (pyramid shaped hotel) and walk around inside. it%26#39;s very cool.

some other casino/hotels that are fun to check out: venetian, caesar%26#39;s palace, new york/new york, Wynn. go downtown (at night) to fremont street and hang out for a couple of hours. there%26#39;s a canopy over the street that%26#39;s 4 blocks long that has a light and sound show every hour on the hour from about 6pm until midnight. since you%26#39;ve never seen it, you will most likely be really impressed. it%26#39;s amazing. if you go to the grand canyon, stay the night out there somewhere. some people think they can go there and come back in the same day. it%26#39;s too far away to do that. if you want a good hamburger, go to In N Out. there%26#39;s one a couple blocks west of the strip. they have great fast food. if someone walks up to you and asks if you want free show tickets or a free dinner, or asks how long you%26#39;re in town, tell them ';we are flying home tonight.'; those are people that want to sell you a time-share. don%26#39;t waste your time with them.

Thanks everyone for your inputs. We are compiling everything and making a plan. More inputs are welcome. I will update the post with the plans we make with all these inputs. Thanks for the replies.

Harrah%26#39;s has several properties in Las Vegas that are reasonable, go to www.harrahs.com and click on reservation, put your dates in and put all Las Vegas Casino and all of their properties will come up with prices. You can see what each has to offer and the rate for the different kind of room. Flamingo, Bally%26#39;s, Harrah%26#39;s are usually pretty reasonable and they are center of the strip, so you will be in the center and easy to get to the different casinos. It is better during the weekdays than the weekends, unless you like large crowds. A lot of people from nearby drives in for the weekend and it can be a mad-house, if you know what I mean.

Going to Grand Canyon, you might want to spend a night, if you want to walk around and explore it well. Hoover Dam is a half day at the most. You might want to go to Laughlin which is and 1 1/2 hour drive from LV. It is on the Colorado River which is very nice, not to far from Hoover Dam.

One real good afternoon show is The Mac King Comedy Magician show which is fantastic and you can get free tickets from outside of Harrah%26#39;s if not it is very reasonable. something like $24.95

When you book check back on rates, if they go down, they will match the price if you call and tell them you saw it lower.

Hi, looks like you have been given a lot of options about where to stay. I was last there in May 2007, and stayed at the Orleans and Golden Nugget.

The Orleans is about 2 miles from the strip and offers free shuttle service to the Strip (at Bill%26#39;s) and Gold Coast casinos. The Orleans is a beautiful hotel with much more reasonable prices than those found on the Strip. We stayed there for 3 nights, then headed downtown.

To really see Vegas, you need to spend some time on Fremont Street. The Golden Nugget is THE place to stay. They have just renovated their pool and the shark tank is definitely a must-see! Every hour at night, the Fremont Street Experience lights up the night. Awesome.

We have also found that the slots downtown are a little looser.

Enjoy Vegas! Plenty to see and do, even if you aren%26#39;t gambling. I%26#39;m headed back this weekend : ) !

First of all, congratulations. You will both have a blast in Vegas. It is fun sharing it together when both are first timers.

I%26#39;m duplicating some of the previous info but here%26#39;s what I would do:

1. Stay on strip during the week when rates are cheaper. For the other nights, stay downtown Las Vegas, perhaps Four Queens.

2. Grand Canyon answer depends upon your tastes. Do you just want to gaze at the beauty of it or are you wanting to take the tour buses to the various stops? Maybe you like to hike. If you are just a gazer, overnight is fine. Anything more than that and I would recommend two nights.

3 Half day is plenty for Hoover Dam. Can%26#39;t speak to the other places as that dang Las Vegas FORCE FIELD usually prevents me from leaving the city!!!

LL

Depending on the weather, I would recommend trips to:

Red Rock

Valley of Fire SP

Lake Mead

Mt. Charleston

These side trips really give you a great sense of the diversity of landscape and climate within half an hour of Vegas (and give you a break from spending money in the casinos!)

Envy

Has anyone eaten here recently and if so what are your thoughts. Thanks.

Envy

Bump

Envy

Well I haven%26#39;t been but I remember thinking about going and I found reviews on citysearch pretty useful:

鈥itysearch.com/profile/41623776/las_vegas_n鈥?/a>

I went this past Saturday and would not recommend. You can find just a good steak and dinner experience on the strip. The service was good but the food was fair. My friend ordered a steak that was just ok and my sea bass was way too fishy. Our food was also cold went it was brought to our table.

I should have known better to have ordered sea bass in LV but the waiter recommended it!

';my sea bass was way too fishy.';

Priceless....... :-)

Oh lord. I guess I need to be extremely descriptive. The sea bass was over the top, laying out in the sun, haven鈥檛 been in a refrigerator fishy.

Obviously blagger is not a fish afishanado

Oh no have ordered a voucher off restaurant. com but think I will risk it anyway. In for a penny in for a pound - will avoid the seabass.

Perhaps i should say in for a cent in for a dollar

I%26#39;ve already gotten my voucher also. Planning on going %26amp; enjoying in 3 weeks!!

Let us know how you get on - hope you enjoy

How much in taxi from Circus Circus To centre strip?

thanks

How much in taxi from Circus Circus To centre strip?

Depending on traffic and route taken $10-15.

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wedding

hi,we have booked the valley of fire for our wedding in Feb, its the second time round for both of us so we wanted somewhere different. Just wondered if anyone had used this venue? many thanks Joy

wedding

I would post this again using ';Valley of Fire wedding'; as your subject. General questions about weddings get posted on here many times daily and you need to be a bit more specific in order to grab the attention of people.

Also if you use the forum search (box in upper right of page) you%26#39;ll find some old and not so old threads about VoF weddings.

Vegas Show deals through Ticketmaster

Hey folks,

i just discovered this, and thought it was useful enough to pass along...

http://www.ticketmaster.com/lasvegas

it%26#39;s an extensive list of all things on the strip sold through ticketmaster (which isn%26#39;t everything, but it still has a lot)

and also there%26#39;s a great interactive map here that shows you where the venues are.

here%26#39;s the direct link for the ticketmaster deals

www.ticketmaster.com/channel_partner/…

currently there%26#39;s discounted tickets for the following shows:

V - the Ultimate Variety Show, PHANTOM - THE LAS VEGAS SPECTACULAR, Stomp Out Loud, Monty Python%26#39;s SPAMALOT, The Producers, Hans Klok and Beacher%26#39;s Madhouse

and the good thing is that because it%26#39;s through ticketmaster, you know the deals are legit.

Vegas Show deals through Ticketmaster

Thanks: I will check that out. I%26#39;m really interested in seeing some shows. My sons like the Beatles so I was interested in LOVE at the Mirage.

How%26#39;s the weather in Vancouver? Cold here today in Calgary. The city almost stops with a bit of snow. Terrible SLOW driving.

Vegas Show deals through Ticketmaster

You will be very lucky to get any discounts for LOVE

You all hate Vegas..

Just curious from reading many of your posts (all the regular Vegas lovers) that you all suffered from Vegas withdrawal when you went back to your hometown.

Would you feel the same if you lived here in Vegas or would the warm fuzzies about Vegas worn out after awhile and you then dream about vacationing in other part of the world?

This is not a post meant to provoke negative response, just trying to get a different perspective.

You all hate Vegas..

I don%26#39;t think I can answer this question fairly, unless I ever moved to Vegas.

My friend lives in Summerlin, goes to a show every once in a while, and joins friends for dinner when they arrive in town. But I know for sure that any other time he avoids the strip, and all his vacations are away from Vegas.

You all hate Vegas..

Would love the chance :)

LOL u still spiderpiggin

up the blades

rptlam, it would seem you would be the one with the answer to this question. Since we don%26#39;t live there, we really don%26#39;t know. How do you feel about it?

Personally, I know it would lose it%26#39;s charm for me after awhile. I love dessert (the sweet stuff - so you know I didn%26#39;t misspell Mojave ), but don%26#39;t want a steady diet of it.

A vacation is a break from the norm, usually away from your everyday life. If I lived in Las Vegas, I%26#39;m sure I would dream of vacations in other parts of the world.

Camille

That sounds like me.

I do love Vegas and the convenience of what it has to offer, but I think most of us who have lived here, especially for awhile, will do what your friend did. Kind of like working in the desert section in a restaurant, you cant possibly keep eating those delicious deserts everyday.

LVescape:

We must be thinking on the same path, typed mine while you were typing yours.

BTW I did mis-spell mine (dessert). Funny we were using the same dessert analogy.

I enjoy a variety of activities and want to be busy doing something or going somewhere all the time. I had a teacher one time tell me that the worst thing someone could do to me would be to lock me in a room by myself! LOL

Anyway there are so many activities, beautiful natural beauty in the area, restaurants galore, a great university with plenty of opportunities for sports, art, music, etc. venues.

I just cannot imagine ever running out of something to do...the weather is also one of the attractions for me since there is something about the southwest part of the U.S. that I love.

I agree though with Low that I can%26#39;t absolutely say I would feel the same unless I had the opportunity to try living there for a couple of years...and that just isn%26#39;t an option right now for us :(

no, we don%26#39;t all suffer from LV withdrawal - that is a rather silly concept, it is after all, just another place that offers something most of us do not have available on a daily basis. it%26#39;s different - which is part of the attraction.

I, like many posters, travel often and LV is just one of the places we frequent. Many of our business associates like LV since it offers so much - and it is easy for many people to access from all geopgraphic areas. Last week we landed, conducted business and was back on plane 4 hours later.

Of course living anywhere is different than visiting. We were in Broward County recently - it is now an awful place, you couldn%26#39;t pay me to live in Ft lauderdale, our home is in Palm beach which is just OK - when we bought this property 50 years ago and lived there the area was a true gem. That doesn;t stop from vacationing in SOFLA. Places change, living somewhere is much different than vacationing.

i%26#39;m not sure if people have LV withdrawal or just vacation withdrawal since they are back to normal life. LV is what it is - I don;t understand people saying they are having withdrawal - so what? it%26#39;s important to them.

The same can be said for any city; I%26#39;ve lived in the NYC metro area my whole life, and Brooklyn for the last 10 years. I commute into NYC every single day and to be honest, I never grow tired of the city. I am aware that Vegas is completely different than NYC and I%26#39;d never relocate to LV from NYC, BUT what%26#39;s wrong with feeling an affection for a city? I would imagine some could make this argument about NYC as well, yet it remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Personally I visited Vegas in June of 2007, had a blast, and I%26#39;m on my way back for Fight Night in February of 2008. Vegas has a certain allure for even the most jaded individual in my opinion; it%26#39;s just a fun place!

Viva Las Vegas!!!

People who live in a tourist destination don%26#39;t appreciate what their area offers until they move somewhere else. I%26#39;ve lived in the DC area since 1997. Did all the touristy stuff my first 6 months here, rarely since. it would be the same situation if I lived in Las vegas or orlando. Visit when you have friends/relatives in, almost never at other times.

i love Vegas, to visit, but could never live there. Too much traffic and crime....The only alternative would be to live at City Center

Why is the monorail expensive?

Every time we go to Vegas the price keeps going up for the monorail, $2, then $3, now $5?!?

Is it that people aren%26#39;t riding it? Are the casinos funding it less?

$5 each way is ridiculous! That can%26#39;t be much cheaper than a taxi?

Why is the monorail expensive?

You hit the nail on the head. If you are with 2 or 3 people, it may actually cost you more money and take you longer than a taxi.

Hopefully this comes to a head at some point and we get a real monorail that goes up and down the strip.

Why is the monorail expensive?

Unlike most mass transit systems, the monorail is operated by a private company and isn%26#39;t subsidized by tax dollars.

So it%26#39;s not subsidized by the casinos that have stops along it? It%26#39;s purely an outside investor? They are expecting to make money on fares from passengers alone?

i don%26#39;t think it is if you use $9 unlimited day pass. at $5 a pop it is expensive.

if it was free i wouldn;t use it since it is inconvenient. the stations have to be where they are, no doubt, since that is so far away from where i want to be it makes no sense to use the monorail.

in LV we use limos and taxis, no driving hassles, no long walks to the wrong part of a property for the monorail.

some people love it - and if a person was going from a property with a station to another, such as MGM and sahara or the convention center, it might make sense for them.

Melba,

Where do you stay in Vegas and where do you ride the monorail from/to?

Most people find it inconveient at any price.

I rode it once. It gives you a nice view. I often travel with my Mom. She could never use it because of all the walking involved to get to and from the stations.

My understanding is that it is privately owned. That%26#39;s probably why there is advertising plastered on the side of each train and all over the stations.

Our country can%26#39;t seem to do public transportatoin right. There should be a reason to want to use it, like it is affordable and efficient. I agree $5 each way and a huge hike to the station is not much of an incentive.

we used it for two of us to get to the hilton (star trek experience) from mgm, and i thought it was worth it for that, since it%26#39;s so far away...

but i would agree that it%26#39;s not ideal if you%26#39;re only travelling between properties that are close to eachother.

personally i prefer light rail transit like the monorail. you can depend on it - it doesn%26#39;t get stuck in traffic. and it%26#39;s enviromentally friendly.

it sure would be nice to see a monorail that was free or very cheap - say $5 for a day pass, that ran all the way up and down the strip, and even with an arm into downtown. it would be ideal for tourism.

but honestly, given the prices for most things in vegas, i don%26#39;t think that $9 for a day pass is that outrageous. it%26#39;s a little steep, sure... but in vegas you can sneeze and a $20 bill falls out of you. i wouldn%26#39;t sweat about spending $18 for a couple to get around for the day.

I agree the prices are more than needed for most of the tickets. I also agree about buying the $9 24 hour pass, if that makes sense to you. I bought the same 24 hour pass for $8 in June....went back and forth 4 times, so each trip cost me $2. THAT makes sense.

Do what works best for you.

I like that Vegas offers so many different ways to get around. Taxi%26#39;s, Duece, Limos, your own car or rental. Now if they could close down the strip and add rickshaw%26#39;s (sp?) it would open up the other modes of transportation!

Waiting in line is something I avoid.....so monorail works well for me. And the walk to the stations works off the food I eat!

When it was free I used it a lot, but have not used it once since. Maybe it%26#39;s the knowledge that it%26#39;s inconvienent or the costs. Will ride it one day but not high on my to-do list.

I don%26#39;t find myself down @ MGM too often but if I did and it was too hot outside to walk I%26#39;d think about taking the monorail because the majority of the access to it is in the AC rather than walking down the strip and melting.

Lowrance... rickshaws? i love that idea!

now we%26#39;re talking. those things are FUN.

here in vancouver they charge you $2 a block. pretty expensive, but good times at 3am when you%26#39;re leaving the bar.

i actually am shocked that the strip is still open to traffic. if they closed it to cars, and only allowed buses, trolleys, taxis and limos it would be far far easier to get around.

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Vegas Dec 13-16, 2007????

Hey there Guys and Dolls

Anyone headin to Vegas dec 13-16?

Vegas Dec 13-16, 2007????

16th-19th here.

Vegas Dec 13-16, 2007????

you been before? if so, any tips for a first-timer?

im there from 12th to 19th also a first timer!

First timer here...Dec. 17-23rd @ NYNY

I%26#39;m a first timer too! Mirage December 12-15

It would seem there will be an awful lot of people wandering around looking slightly bemused at this time of year trying to find things!

DH and I will be there 12/13 - 12/18.

December 9-14.

Dec 14-16 - NY/NY Birthday Offer me %26amp; my 80 year old Mom from CT

DH and I will be there Dec 12-15. Our friends that are going with us have never been to LV. I love to go with first timers - the look on their face when they first see LV is priceless!!!

Everyone have a wonderful time!!!

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vegas two weeks before Christmas

Just curious, but I%26#39;ve read in some places that Vegas is not that busy during the two weeks leading to Christmas. Mostly locals and international travelers. Any opinions on this from some who have been during this time of year?

vegas two weeks before Christmas

It%26#39;s less busy than other times of the year.

My opinion is this is fine - less crowds

Some shows will be dark, check schedules.

Do you have a specific Q or concern?

vegas two weeks before Christmas

no real concerns other than construction near the Hilton vacation club at the south end of the strip. We%26#39;re staying there and I hear there is an awful lot of construction, though we don%26#39;t plan on spending too much time at the hotel.

Not exactly true, after the 15th then yes. The NFR is in town from 12-6 to 12-15 and it is very busy. So from the 16th to the 29th it is very slow.

Actually, the second half of the rodeo is not nearly as busy as the first week, and the deals available on room rates reflect that.

Visiting for First Time

I%26#39;m considering visiting Laughlin for the 1st time on Jan. 2nd - after New Years. This will be the middle of the week. Will the town still be super crowded, or will it be semi-deserted?

Next question - I know gamblers get free drinks. Can I order specific brands of alcohol? For example - If I order a screwdriver made with Ketel One, is that what I will receive?

Thanks in advance.

Visiting for First Time

We will not be super-crowded on Jan 2. Folks will generally be leaving town. We will then enter a period of very low tourism.

By all means, you should request the specific brands you desire. Otherwise you will get their house brands. They will give you exactly what you want. Shucks, we have indoor plumbing and everything up here in Laughlin now.

We hope you have a great visit, leave a few bucks with us, and come back real soon!

Visiting for First Time

Your timing is great. It should be very quiet, and you will have no trouble playing whatever machine or game you want.

As far as getting a premium liquor, you may or may not get what you want. If you play at the bartops and order the Ketel, you can watch and get what you want. Out on the floor, you just never know what vodka the BT will use. They figure most can not tell the difference when mixed with orange juice. Order what you want-- don%26#39;t forget to tip.

One more thought on premium liquor. The brand they will comp will vary according to company policy. I was in Laughlin in May and was talking to a bartender at the Edgewater about which vodkas they would comp. She told be they would comp Absolut, but not Stoli or Ketel One...... that was policy. My last trip two weeks ago, with new owners, they would comp all brands.

I was also talking to a bartender (not Laughlin), and he told me that anyone that ordered a name brand drink out on the floor would not get it.....they would get the ';house'; brand. Again company policy. He said it was rare to get a complaint. ';People can%26#39;t tell the difference with mixed drinks.'; He is probably correct, but it just does not seem right to me.

Just two comments on the above statements regarding my previous response to bbtrumpetmans questions. . If they stock that brand, the bars will provide whatever the customer requests. Casino profits are made at the machines and tables. Not on nickel and diming folks on drinks. And cocktail waitresses make their money on tips by making sure the customer gets what he or she orders. As a Laughlin resident I have discussed this with many, many bartenders and waitresses over the years.

Leaving today

Just wanted to say thanks for all the info, I have a long list of things to do. We have been to Vegas several times, but there is always something new to do and I have gotten lots of ideas from you all. Now, I guess I better go pack !!! Nothing like leaving it to the last minute.

Leaving today

Wishing you lots of $$$$

Leaving today

Good Luck and we all look forward to the Trip Report.

Oh have a wonderful trip!! Be safe, have a great time and win lots of money!

Have a fab trip, and I hope you come back richer than when you went!

Look forward to reading a TR on your return :-)

Bus Trip from LV to LA

Plan to take bus trip from LV to LA alone, can%26#39;t drive. Any bus package that can drop-off for shopping from LV and LA? How long it will take?

Thanks in advance!

Bus Trip from LV to LA

I think it is about 6 hours from Vegas to LA. If you are looking for scheduled bus service go to www.greyhound.com. Greyhound is the major intercity bus company in the US.

I don%26#39;t know if there are tour busses that would take you from Vegas to LA. A day trip does not seem practical given the travel time.

Not sure exactly what you are looking for.

Bus Trip from LV to LA

I checked their schedule once, and most their busses were stopping at too many locations, and the time was actually closer to 7-8 hours.

Make sure you find one with the minimum stops

Try megabus.com. Trips from 1dollar! minimum stops if any. My dad is coming in January to meet me and roundtrip is $2.

Seeing that you are from HongKong, assuming you are Chinese. Would you be interested in going to LA Chinatown area? If so, they have daily buses going between LA Chinatown and LV chinatown that is very cheap ride. Catering to primarily asians. Ride is roughly 4 to 5 hours.

Thanks a lot for your info and is very useful.

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Spa tipping

I%26#39;m staying at the Monte Carlo at the end of this week and have reserved times for massages for my wife and myself. This is a first for me while on vacation. If we want these charged to our room, do we just sign a receipt and add a tip, similar to paying for a meal on credit?

Spa tipping

Yes.

Spa tipping

Just let the receptionist know when you%26#39;re checking out what you%26#39;d like to do and how much tip you want to add.

From your user name I assume you have 4 kids?? Sounds like you could both use a massage!!! I hope you enjoy!!!!=)

Actually family of 4 people, not 4 kids. But I am running my first marathon that Sunday - so I will need that massage! Thanks for the info.

Good luck!!! I%26#39;ll be in LV on Sunday too.....but not running! LOL....I%26#39;ll send you an ESP ';good luck'; that morning! Yes...you will definitely need a massage after that! =)

Read the spa menu VERY CLOSELY. Generally, there is already an 18% tip added to the cost of the services, no need to tip over that unless it was a truly extraordinary service.

yes, if you want

know that some spas add a gratuity, decide if you want to add anything to this %. I usually leave my gratuity in cash (the receptionist will provide you with an envelope) so my therapist receives it immediately. anything you add on to your credit card takes time for the spa to give to the employees - they appreciate cash since it is immediate, not weeks.

An oldie newbie will visit LV

Hi all,

I%26#39;m new to this forum but been to LV many times. Maybe I%26#39;ll retire there.

My next visit is coming up next week and if I have some time I%26#39;ll share some stories (maybe with a few reminisces) in TRs later.

Paris is comping me from 12/3 - 12/7 but I%26#39;m mainly a Caesars fan.

I intend to sample Mon Ami Gabi (having walked by too many times) and Battistas (never tire of the place). I%26#39;ll try some rest.com coupons at PH and not least hit the poker and blackjack tables .. maybe a show if there is something good playing (I am open to suggestions).

I hope to do Nero%26#39;s if I get enough Harrah%26#39;s points to cover most of it as I am a serious steak eater.

If anyone who knows the place is in town let me know.

Dennis

An oldie newbie will visit LV

Went to Battistas on my first trip to LV 30 years ago while on my honeymoon and remember it well. Think dinner with unlimited wine was around $10 in those days. Glad to know it is still there......wife is not, thank goodness.

An oldie newbie will visit LV

Welcome to the forum Dr.Dennis! Hope to read your trip report! Have fun and good luck.

Hi Dr Dennis, welcome to the LV Forum.

I%26#39;m hoping to visit Neros when I am back in Vegas next year, so please when you write your TR include your food!!

Hope you have a lovely time :-)

You mean people go to Las Vegas without ever having been on this forum? They know what to wear? They know what the weather will be like? They know the cost of a taxi to their hotel and whether to take the tunnel or not? They know which casino has the best buffet, the hottest machines and the best CW%26#39;s? They know if the pools are open in December and that they should wear comfy shoes? They still have fun? Gosh, what will I hear next. j/k

We had been going to Vegas for a few years when I found this forum (didn%26#39;t even have a computer when I first started going). It has made a big difference in the way I approach my LV vacation and has given me a way to relive my fun through sharing with my forum friends. I also get to live vicariously through their experiences in my favorite city.

Welcome, Dr. Dennis! I hope you get as much pleasure out of this forum as I do.

Camille

Thanks for your replies y%26#39;all.

While I%26#39;m waiting for next Monday to jump on the plane, I%26#39;ll share my first time in LV.

It%26#39;s 1972 and I%26#39;ve graduated from the U of M (that%26#39;s Michigan for those of you from elsewhere).

My first wife and I drove across the US toward my new job in LA and stopped on the 4th of July staying at a Holiday Inn where Harrahs is now on the strip.

It was hotter than heck and we had no money, so we just were glad to have a room.

My gambling consisted of playing penny slots which gobbled my $5.00 budget in a matter of less than an hour. I had no idea what I was doing and had to look twice to find the slot to put the money in. You could only pull the levers back then .. no buttons to push like now.

We got there during the day and I don%26#39;t remember many lights like there are now (what a codger I must be :)

This was a brief pass through and it didn%26#39;t really make much of an impression.

Boy oh boy ... that changed in later years.

Stay tuned, Dennis

Welcome to the board, I cannot wait to hear more about your travels. Its always fun to hear about old trips and old Vegas.

And BTW GO BLUE!!!!

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Room sizes - Mandalay Bay

Hiya, (Me again)

Sorry about this, but as we will be booking our rooms this weekend, we were wondering if the 750GR Suite is actually big enough for 3 people to sleep in as we are getting two rooms but there is only one king size bed, will this be big enough for 3 20-somethings?

Thanks very much!

Room sizes - Mandalay Bay

Not quite sure what you%26#39;re asking here. Is it a case of the suite vs two rooms but the suite only has the king bed?

Room sizes - Mandalay Bay

I assume you%26#39;ve checked out the floor plan and pictures on the website?

mandalaybay.com/accommodations/gcJuniorSuite鈥?/a>

It looks like it is just an extended living room area...but not a whole separate room. So.....I%26#39;m not sure of the logistics of the 3 of you.....but it looks like the person on the couch will be very close to the people in the bed.

I have stayed in the 550 and the rooms are very very nice!!!

Sorry about the confusion, we are getting two rooms as there are 6 of us so 3 in each, but was just wondering if the one king bed would be big enough for the 3 people really. Hope this makes more sense?

Ok....so you%26#39;re going to get 2 of the 750 GR suites? And you%26#39;d like all 3 people to sleep in the same bed in the room?

Just my opinion....but I wouldn%26#39;t want to sleep with 2 other people in the same bed! Even my BFF%26#39;s!!!

Since there is a couch in these suites, why not have someone sleep on that and 2 in the bed?

Three people in a king bed? Kill that idea off at birth.

Thanks, for the advice. I will be sharing with two girls (you%26#39;d think lucky me) but it%26#39;ll be me who would have ended up on the couch anyway.

My own 2c worth would be for you to perhaps stay in a less expensive hotel than Mandalay Bay and get three standard rooms for the six of you.

I agree with Blagger!!! More people in a room...means more people in the bathroom, more people snoring, etc. Easier to deal with 2....especially if you have females in the bathroom!! =)

A kingsize bed is the same size, no matter if it is in a motel 6 or in the MB 750GR Suit.

for 6 people, it will make sence to get 3 regular rooms with two beds in each room.

It would be tight but you could fit three in a king bed. If you get a room with only a king bed why don%26#39;t you ask for a roll away to be sent up?

Dublin to Las Vegas via New York (with Delta)

Has anyone done this trip to LV with Delta? I see that the stopover time is only 90 minutes but the travel agent I checked with (I ended up booking directly with Delta) assure me 90 mins is sufficient - I%26#39;m worried though, as apparently you have to collect your bags in new york and re-check them. I%26#39;d appreciate if anyone could put my mind at rest - we%26#39;re only going for 5 days so it%26#39;d be disastrous to miss our flight from NY!

Dublin to Las Vegas via New York (with Delta)

It is not the collecting and re-checking bags that is the hold up, it%26#39;s getting through immigration.

Ask for seats near the front of the plane when you check in or, better still, call Delta and reserve your seats ahead of time. This will mean you are nearer the front of the immigration queue and give you a better chance.

90 mins is cutting it fine, but it can be done. We have taken an hour to clear immigration, but with getting seats nearer the front of the cabin we%26#39;ve done it in 30 mins.

Good luck and I hope you are worrying needlessly.

Dublin to Las Vegas via New York (with Delta)

Thanks Lucy, unfortunately the best seats I could get were halfway down the plane so we%26#39;ll have to elbow our way off!! I was thinking that, as we clear immigration in Dublin now, that might save some time but I%26#39;m not 100% sure of that.

i did this trip a couple of years ago, your bags should be checked through to vegas. when you arrive at jfk you just collect your bag and place it another belt and thats you. i even got my seat number in dublin for my flight from jfk to vegas.90 mins should be ok, coz your booked through even if you miss your flight your on the next one to vegas.. good luck. good trip.

Thanks so much northernirish, you%26#39;ve been very reassuring, hopefully all will go well. Its a surprise trip for my husband%26#39;s 40th so I%26#39;d hate anything to go wrong!

Debs,

I haven%26#39;t done this trip (but will be next year)but I%26#39;ve travelled Us Air to Orlando with a similar length stop in Philadelphia. You clear immigration in Ireland, so you won%26#39;t have to do that again. The previous poster is correct, you just have to pick up your baggage and put it on another belt. We were running short of time this August just gone so we asked a member of staff to help and they brought us to the front of the queue. You should get your ticket for both legs of the trip in Dublin, so that will save you more time. Also, if worse comes to worse, I%26#39;m sure Delta will get you on the next available flight to Vegas, I%26#39;m sure you wouldn%26#39;t miss a full day. Have a great time!

Thank you for all your responses, I%26#39;m going to stop worrying about it and start looking forward to the trip!

How%26#39;s this?

You are going to Vegas, and I%26#39;m not! LOL

Hope you have a great time.

week long stay with kids

Hi

I need some help figuring out where which area is best to stay. We will be coming to Vegas with kids. This is mostly business trip. We would like to stay in place that has kitchen in room. It doesn%26#39;t have to be in Las Vegas it self it can be in Henderson, Boulder City also but need a place that is in safe area. What are the recommendations? There will be 2 adults and 4 kids.

Thanks

week long stay with kids

since it is business and you don;t need to be on the strip maybe you can find something on www.vrbo.com - many great properties available

also the signature at MGM, or one of the timeshares might work.

when is the trip and how much are you willing to pay for the week?

week long stay with kids

Are you coming to Vegas to gamble? What is your budget?

We are not coming for gambling. Hubby has to work there for a week. We will be there just cause we don%26#39;t want to be away for week. The company will pay for stay I believe but we don%26#39;t want to take advantage of company and stay at most expensive place. Just some somewhere where we will fill comfortable when he sends in expense report. We are going to be there from Dec 3 thru 9th. I know it%26#39;s short notice.

I see no reason to stay on the Strip and you will save money by not doing so.

The Boulder Station might be a good option. The Orleans also receives consistently good reviews from the family crowd.

Where (what part of the city) is he going to be working? That will help us with some suggestions too.

he is a scale tech so he will be all over vegas driving.

Ok so location doesn%26#39;t appear to be a problem then;

I am sending a Personal Message (PM) to you.

find a white satin duvet cover

New Year's Day (and beyond) Trip

Hello, we just booked a return trip...landing in Vegas at about 10:30 AM on NYD, so will get to hotel around noon I imagine. We%26#39;re staying til the 5th. Paris and NYNY (2 nights free at each, yeah!)

I am just banking on the fact that we will get to hotel, check our bags in and probably not get a room since most of the NYE crowd will be still sleeping, lol. Anybody have any experience with this? Checking in on a day after a major holiday?

I guess I am just looking for any advice or details on what to expect in general. I expect it to be a little slow, but not dead or anything. That may be good, because maybe there will be lower table limits and such.

New Year's Day (and beyond) Trip

bump

New Year's Day (and beyond) Trip

do as usual - go to the hotel and ask, if a room is available you%26#39;ll get it.

we are checking in on NYD, my host has told me the hotel is almost full - so many visitors may be staying longer. no way to know until you arrive.

lower limits usually are in the morning and mid-week, increase during the day. this is usually - all depends on the # of gamblers

That is what I figured. Just check-in and hope for the best...

I have only did this once and it was for business. We had over 1000 people checking into Ceasers for a conference and most of us could not get rooms until almost 5pm. Now this was probably an extreme case. Why my old company would schedule a conference in Vegas starting Jan 1st is crazy anyways!!!!

Yeah, you may have trouble getting rooms before checkin time, but so what, drop off your bags and go have lunch :)

Query construction around NY NY hotel

Hello Vegas,

We are considering staying at NY NY hotel but heard of construction around the hotel as of Dec 07.

Looking for a inexpensive place for a simple 2 egg/toast/coffee breakfast...can it be found in NYNY or close by the hotel?

Thank you.

Noel

Query construction around NY NY hotel

Hi Noel

We stayed at the NY NY in July, we ate Breakfast at their America restaurant. Nice food and not expensive. Aslo there ae various little eateries just off the casino which i%26#39;m sue will aslo cater to you simple breakfast!

Didn%26#39;t see any construction near the NY NY it was at the side of the Monte Carlo, but it%26#39;s Vegas so they could be some in December!

Hope you have a fun trip, we loved the NYNY and are staying there again next year.

cas

Query construction around NY NY hotel

Cas,

Thank you kindly for your response.

NY NY it is.

Noel

They also have a breakfast buffet in the Chin/Chin for like 9 or 10 bucks each morning, asian and american pickings - nothing spectacular but good for the price (they also have the best Bloody Mary%26#39; - huge and the veggies alone are a meal) of course that%26#39;s extra but if you want a Bloody Mary that will last 2 hours order one. Also the sausage and the dim sum are very good. Can%26#39;t wait I leave tomorrow.

Hotel Credit Card hold question

Hi guys !

Ok let%26#39;s keep the maths simple

Say you check into the bellagio for 6 nights at $200 a night

You give the hotel your credit card at check in

At this point in time, how much do they charge your credit card ? and how much do they put on hold ?

Hotel Credit Card hold question

I think they put ahold of %26amp;100 per night so that woud be 600.

Hotel Credit Card hold question

It truly depends on the hotel, as each has it%26#39;s own policy. This is one of those questions that is best answered by the hotel. If you are depending on your credit card for other purchases, cash or other charges, you will want to be certain what your available credit is and exactly how much the hotel is holding. I met a problem with that once at Caesars. Fortunately, my credit card is through my credit union and I was able to transfer money from one account onto the credit card.

Camille

this Q is discussed often, in general terms and for specific properties. this info should be on the hotel website, since you have a specific Q about a specific property the best to get this answer is from The B.

Contact them and they will tell you.

For some people knowing this exact amount is important.

MGM charged me $200 dollars a day but never more than $200 in total, so they diod not charge $600 (3 nights stay) at eth beginning but held $200 at the end of day 1 they charged what I had charged to my room say $50 and then $200 for the next day so the total on my card at the end of day 1 start iof day w was $250. Does that make sense ?

As others have posted.....best to ask the hotel as each is different.

In my experience (not at Bellagio) here is what would normally happen:

Day 1: Check in....normally you have already paid a one night deposit.....so when you check in...they just put the ';hold'; for incidentals on your card...let%26#39;s say they hold $100 per day.....they don%26#39;t actually charge this on your CC....just hold it so your credit limit will be lowered...but nothing actually charged.

Day 2: SInce you have already paid for night one...nothing charged.....just a new %26#39;hold'; for the day.

Day 3: $200 charged for night #2 (plus new hold)

Day 4: $200 charged for night #3 (plus new hold)

ETc......BUT....be sure to ask. I know that the Wynn has a hold of $200 per day which is the highest I%26#39;ve ever seen....and they want you to have that avaialble to hold on your CC at the beginning of the stay when you check in....so if you were there you would need $1200 free and clear on your credit limit for them to hold...and then each day they would release $200 back to your credit limit assuming you hadn%26#39;t charged anything to the room.

black lipstick

Monte Carlo - Video Poker, First Evening..

Booked this trip fairly last minute – two weeks ahead. Got a great fare on Allegiant, $21 to and $59 from. Too good to pass up. We made it to Vegas in tact so obviously the flight went fine.

Before I go any further, the purpose of this weekend trip was to play, relax and just get away. We didn’t visit any restaurants, see any shows, hike any trails or ride any rollercoasters.

We’re HERE…

We landed and gave each other that look – the one that is so often discussed here, yes ‘we’re back” Headed to claim our bags, our limo driver was waiting. “We’re going to go through the tunnel, the traffic on Tropicana is horrible “ Okay, really don’t know if she said “Tropicana”…wasn’t really listening. All I heard was the ‘tunnel” You go right ahead and tunnel us, the tab is on you.

We’re really HERE…

Off to check in. Went into the VIP room. “We have a Monaco Suite for you, none left on the 32nd floor, but you have access”. I was handed two envelopes, one was a welcome from our host. The second as I read it, “Spa appointment”. I said, “wow look what I got”. Steve: “Sunday?”

Me: “yeah”

Steve: “1:00?”

Me: “yeah!:

Okay it took me a minute to realize that my husband had arranged this for me.

Steve = 100 points

We enter our suite. Wow beautiful! They had recently been redone and the décor was lovely. Chocolate brown sofa, iridescent greens, blues, dark wood. Flat screen TV, large bathroom with jetted tub, separate powder room.

Me = 70,000 points for playing enough to earn this room. No really, 70,000 points.

After a quick freshen up and switch to my gambling purse, we head out. We enter the casino.

We’re REALLY HERE!

They have redone a lot since our trip in June. Steve comments on how he likes the new carpet when I look up. “Oh $hit”. My always dependable bank of Video Poker machines are gone! “This is a huge problem.” Steve tries to look like he understands but I know better. We give each other a quick kiss which means “I’ll catch up with you later” and I embark on my hunt.

I head straight for the $1 machines. One of the slot guys who I have always seen on previous trips stops to say hello. I inquire about my trusty ol’ favorites and he says he doesn’t know if they’re on the floor anymore. What? Do they retire them? Now this man is very nice. He remembers details about me. He was there was year when I hit two royals in one sitting. He even remembered that I hadn’t eaten all day etc. Kind of freaky how much he remembered. Anyway, since making the mistake of asking about “my” machines he was ‘on me’ all evening. If he wasn’t trying to point me to a winning machine, he was standing over my shoulder, always asking how I’m doing etc. After a few hours of this it was getting a little tiring. Remember I’m one of those who doesn’t like people ‘hanging’ around me while I’m playing.

Put in my first $100.00 (did I mention that we’re HERE?!”) First hand I get 4 5’s, okay great, $250.00 right off the bat! Now those of you who play VP (maybe slots as well) there are certain superstitions that you believe. I tend to think that if I cash out right away, my luck will change. Totally silly but… I play for a couple of hours between 4 machines next to each other. I do finally cash out at $600.00 (I invested $400.00 however)

Me = 100 points for cashing out

Me = -100 points for not cashing out when I was at almost $1000.00

Caught up with Steve. Needed something to eat although neither of us was too particular. Decided we’d hit the buffet. I wasn’t that hungry but it was comped so if all I ate was a piece of bread that would be fine. $18.95 pp. It was quite crowded. Couldn’t find much that I was in the mood for, so opted for their bread pudding, which is my favorite! MC definitely gets points for their bread pudding

Back to playing. Wasn’t having much more luck. As a matter of fact I was going through my gambling fund rather quickly. Reminded myself that I rarely have much luck the first night. Of course, my rational thinking tells me one trip has nothing to do with another, but my “superstitious” side believes otherwise. We wanted to venture outside a little bit so we went upstairs so that I could grab my coat. Walked in the room to find a beautiful bouquet of flowers (“from my loving husband) and a gift basket of fruit, cheeses, crackers, nuts etc from our host.

Steve = 150 points for the flowers

Host = 50 points for providing snacks.

It was a bit too chilly for me so we didn’t go far. Steve wanted to see the City Center progression. “it’s a guy thing”.

Me = 50 points for standing there freezing while he gawked at the steel and work machines.

We tried our luck at Roulette. I had none. Luckily Steve made enough to cover both of our investments. Back to VP for me and craps for Steve. Did manage a few more 4 OAK’s, still searching for a new machine that would become my new best friend.

Off to the room….

We both scored points. :)

Monte Carlo - Video Poker, First Evening..

So far so good!!! What a great hubby you have Loveland....I can see why you two timed Low! (just kidding Low! =) )

Wow...sounds like a perfect weekend so far!!! Nothing like starting out on a winning hand! =) I hate when they move machines around...I swear it changes the ';lucky'; machines when you find them again.

I%26#39;m loving all your point system!!!! =)

Keep going....more more!!!

Monte Carlo - Video Poker, First Evening..

I love your point system too, some nice scores!!! ;)

I am ready to hear more!!!

';My always dependable bank of Video Poker machines are gone!';

Ok...that would be like the MGM removing Low%26#39;s lions! LOL

What a wonderful husband you have, and I am waiting to see more winnings details :)

Yep, I hate it when they move ';MY'; machines too. MGM has done that to me a few times, not appreciated! But it sounds like you are doing pretty well on your newly discovered ones. Looking forward to more report!

Great start Love!!

Gerry and I were there last year when they where starting to reno the casino. Plastic and scaffolding down the center which limited the amount of machines. They seemed to be doing something to the ceilings and the new restaurant.

Looking forward to more..

Great point system and hope the rest of your trip was as good as the first day

Great start. Steve sounds so sweet.

How nice of you to stand at the Civic Center after Steve scored you a massage, flowers, and let you go gamble all alone without watching....LOL!

Nice job anytime you walk away in the black!

I can see you%26#39;re one of the TA people the poster was talking about who gorges themselves at the buffet, LMAO!

Security knows a lot about you? Didn%26#39;t you realize I sent your pic from the M%26amp;G and now they have it posted by all the security feeds? =)

lastly...smackin CO for that comment....LOL!

btw Ducky...the Majestic Lions belong to TexasTJ.... My Betty Boop machines, however, disappeared!!!

New favorite....double/triple sevens....

The only complaint I have Loveland, is that with you getting 70,000 points at the beginning.....(the room)....how is poor Steve going to catch up if you only give him 100 points at a time?...lol

sorry I miised you when you were here....even CO mentioned that maybe you forgot my number...I told her if that happened you would have gotten on a computer, and checked your messages on TA.....

well...maybe not...lol....

Hope to see you guys next time in.

Now that I think about it. I forgot my phone with YOUR number last June. I cared enough to roar back to the parking lot, run red lights, and slam about $15 worth of tips in the driver%26#39;s hand to get to it for you!!!!!

So...umm...you%26#39;re saying you don%26#39;t care about Spike?

%26lt;grin%26gt;

ever heard of ';bank days';

Anyone ever heard of ';bank days'; on slot machines? When the machines haven%26#39;t paid their required by law percentage out for a particular time period the machines starting hitting big time on the bank day.

ever heard of ';bank days';

This sounds like a myth, one of those uban legends.

Scorpion feeding

Hillbillies coming to Vegas Dec. 9-15

Group of 17 people, 15 ladies and 2 men - age group mostly 40s %26amp; 50s - 3 different arrivals.

My group is arriving Dec. 10 with only one Vegas Virgin. I convinced the ladies on taking a limo from airport to TI – what are we waiting for anyway, we have no plans on graduating or getting married again and surely don’t want to be in a coffin for my first limo ride. Everyone agreed.

I have asked my friends who will be arriving the night before to welcome us at the TI entrance and to cheer and scream as if we were celebrities. I will be wearing my “Elvis” sunglasses.

I would like your suggestions/ideas on how my group can impress/surprise the welcome committe when we come out of the limo. We are 5 women in the 50-60 age group who just love to have fun.

Don%26#39;t forget this is just for fun and about who%26#39;s playing the joke on who.

Thanks for your help.

Hillbillies coming to Vegas Dec. 9-15

Ever hear of the ';Sweet Potato Queens?'; All put on red wigs, green sequin dresses (short) and white go-go boots and call yourselves Tammy.

Hillbillies coming to Vegas Dec. 9-15

No suggestions, but I%26#39;ll be at the Bellagio with hubby and I may just stop by the TI to see you guys, sounds like a hoot!

I think the costume thing would be a hoot!!!

The costume idea sounds fun and how about adding a few Chippendales to escort you in.

zbethg

This deserves a bump!

Easy answers in the title

fall out of limo dressed as hillbillys no shoes straw hats etc

great laugh hope you have brilliant time

be lucky sound like my kind of people:)

up the blades

Lol, have them take tons of Pics!!!

The %26#39;Sweet Potato Queen%26#39; books are hilarious!

Hillbillies is a great idea.

May I suggest jeans and flannel shirt and hunting cap?

I had 2 nuns come in the restaurant Sunday night wearing camouflage THey looked great. They said they were hunting deer Monday.

Clowns...%26#39;nuf said!

Wynn breakfast buffet

Since breakfast is one of my most favorite meals of the day, i plan on having 3 breakfast buffets during my trip (would be 4, but am going to hoover dam early).

I am a very early riser, so if I get to the Wynn breakfast buffet right when they open, what are the odds of a huge line?

Wynn breakfast buffet

We were there at 9 am in August......we only waited maybe 5 minutes to be seated.

Wynn breakfast buffet

Be there few minutes before they open, and you won%26#39;t be in line more than 5 minutes, unless it is a holiday weekend

They opened at 8am when we were there last week. We got there at 8:15 and had no line. Breakfast is not as popular, but the buffet is just as good!

Us too we were there October no wait - 1 couple ahead of us at 8.30 ... really good food ... more choices than I could make but all lovely

There are very few early risers in Vegas because so many people like to stay up late in Vegas. So you shouldn%26#39;t have a long wait at all for the breakfast buffet. Of course, it might also depend on how early you go. If you wait until 10:00 or 11:00, then there might be a line. And it could also depend if you%26#39;re there during the week or weekend. I would imagine that during the week, there shouldn%26#39;t be a line no matter what time you go.

best buffet in vegas??

whats the best buffet in vegas?? can anyone give me details and prices etc?? i am a big fan of steaks!!

best buffet in vegas??

Every one has a different idea of the best buffet.

But for a good steak (or even an average steak) you don%26#39;t go to buffets

In general, the buffet at all 5 top hotels are good, and the price is different from breakfast to lunch to diner.

best buffet in vegas??

Wynn has my vote. It should run you around 40$ for dinner. It typically has prime rib, lamb chops, crab legs, etc. However, I do not recall it having ';steaks'; in the sense that I think of a steak. In other words, there weren%26#39;t piles of ribeyes just sitting there for the taking....

IMO Wynn has the best buffet with a lot of great choices and good food. the price is around $35.00 but if you get 50 points which is not much and very easy to do you can get 2 comp. meals which is great and have fun at the same time.

Harrah%26#39;s buffet is very good and also a lot of great choices in good food for about $25.00, of course cheaper for lunch %26amp; breakfast $10.00

If you like a French touch to food then definitely check out Paris buffet for about $25.00.

Mandalay Bay buffet is also very good with good choices.

For a steak buffet and the best is the Sterling Brunch at Bally%26#39;s on Sunday $65.00 but you get great steaks. lobster and champagne and very elegant and of course great service and food. You normally need reservation for this one.

My favorite so far is Mandalay Bay; however, I haven%26#39;t been to the Wynn and we are really looking forward to trying their%26#39;s soon.

I%26#39;m not a big buffet fan because I find mass quantities of food under heating lamps unappetizing. But the Wynn buffet searves smaller quantities and the food is really good! It%26#39;s the only one I visit in Vegas now, and usually just for champagne brunch. Yummm!

Silverton was good (think it was $7.99 or $8.99 for supper, and we had a buy one get one coupon from the American Casino Guide)

If you%26#39;re looking for steaks, you won%26#39;t find it at most of the buffets in Vegas, with the exception of prime rib. Our favorites are the Wynn and Bellagio. Both are a bit more expensive but we think it%26#39;s worth it. As far as the price, it depends on when you go......day, evening, weekday, weekend, etc. Our other favorites that are a little cheaper are Paris, Aladdin, Mandalay Bay, and TI.

';Our other favorites that are a little cheaper are Paris, Aladdin, Mandalay Bay, and TI.';

Planet Hollywood%26#39;s multi million dollar publicity budget is obviously working well....... :-)

dON%26#39;T MISS

Planet Hollywood, Paris, Mandalay Bay, Rio. Wynn in premium pricing.

Lunch at the 1st 4 is less than 10GBP inclusive of tax, beverages..

Many, many fresh and delicious offerings, of all types of food

Dinner, almost the same foods, just under 15GBP all inclusive

You need not bother with any others, this list is of those that are a sure thing

My favorites are Paris,MB TI have not done the Wynn yet.

running south on the Strip

I would like to get a quick daily run in while in LV and am wondering how safe and debris-free the section of the strip is south of the casinos for a morning run each day. Will be staying at the MGMGrand. Can anyone advise. Thanks.

running south on the Strip

sideshow, the strip is a great place to jog if you are early enough. It%26#39;s remarkably empty. You will be able to go south, but may find going up the strip more interesting. You should get out before 8. BTW, are you related to Sideshowbob?

running south on the Strip

Running south on Las Vegas Blvd. has much less traffic and you can veer off and in certain areas and find some praries in which to run...Yes, the strip is relatively uncongested in the early morning...However, who wants to get up early in Vegas???You can try running around the perimeter of Mandalay Bay a few times, it will add up quickly...

I have seen many runners on the strip in the early am. I think they must be crazy, but I am sure they are not!! Myself I wouldnt do it because well I dont run at home, but early morning seems to be a great time.

Mandalay Bay has a jogging path around part of the property - it is before you go into the pool area (so they won%26#39;t check your keys) if you want to check it out...I am sure if you got there early there wouldn%26#39;t be very many people out - just another option (although you may need multiple loops to get a good run in - it is a pretty path!)

thanks for all the info. I was only thinking about going south of the strip to see something a little different. I know the airport is right there and just didn;t want to try to run through a slum or a multimillion $$ construction project. thanks again!

I%26#39;ve jogged south on Las Vegas Blvd., starting from Mandalay Bay. You pqss Callaway golf course on the right, and until recently the sidewalk kind of ended there at a vacant lot. Now however, I understand that lot is occupied by Town Square, a new multi-use center. So they have probably extended the sidewalk, at least past that property.

On a side note, I%26#39;ve always been surprised at how poorly sidewalks are maintained on Las Vegas Boulevard, especially those stretches that aren%26#39;t in front of casino hotels. I would think that a large percentage of people gambling in a given strip casino have walked there from another hotel. Why make it harder for them to reach you?

wrinkles

Frank, Dean and Sammy...

Hi everyone,

I%26#39;m travelling to Vegas in March and would like to see some of the old school sights... My partner is a massive Rat Pack fan and I%26#39;d like to get some ideas about any ';authentic'; Vegas experiences which I could take him to - he has often said he wishes he was there at the time of the Sands shows in the heyday!

Thanks for your help,

NS

Frank, Dean and Sammy...

Pick a day go to one of the 1/2 price ticket places and get the cheapest set of tickets to The Rat Pack Is Back, don%26#39;t pay extra for ';closer seats'; as they aren%26#39;t any closer plus its good if you are further away (one of the only shows where thats true). The performers sound alot like the originals they are trying to be but don%26#39;t look that much like them. Its not old vegas but it does offer a glimpse back and if you close your eyes you can imagine how it was to have been at one of their shows in their heyday. It may not be for everyone but sounds like its just the thing for your partner. Its at the Greek Isles Hotel which is kinda run down and dumpy just don%26#39;t expect much for drink service in the theater.

Also another place I have yet to go there but want to, is the Neon Museum off Freemont Street downtown vegas, they have most of the old casino and such neon signs from places that are no longer.

free to see and $ for tours. You would have to check for times and all that.

Hope this helped

Frank, Dean and Sammy...

Hi NorthernS

I saw the Rat Pack Show at the Greek Isles a couple of years ago - I figured it was the nearest I was going to get to the Frank,Sammy,Dean experience !

I enjoyed it alot...you are placed at tables, and the atmosphere is like being in a club...you could drink during the show and even smoke then to add to the atmosphere ! ( Smoking probably banned now !) ...and the guys playing the Ratpack were brilliant performers. Great voices, all the songs, and all in all a fun night out !

I plan to see the Rat Pack show in a couple of weeks and will report back on how it is. I also got a tip from an old hand here on the forum about the Golden Steer Steakhouse which was frequented by the Rat Pack.

Another place that has that old Vegas feel to it is Casa di Amore.

Unfortunately, there is very little left on the Strip that feels anything like the Vegas of yore.

This website lists a lot of vintage Vegas sites, restaurants, bars, tips and things of that nature...some which are well known, some less so.

http://www.unrealvegas.com/

Thank you all for your suggestions so far.

Stratton, I look forward to the report on the show - I wonder if it%26#39;s changed since Lantana saw it...

Roll on March!

I would guess that one or two of the performers might have changed but that the show remains essentially the same.

blond hair

Roll Call for Jan.

Is anyone going in Jan. around the 1st week. I%26#39;ll be there Jan 2-8

Is there any M%26amp;G???? Would love to go!!!!!!

Roll Call for Jan.

I would love to go but I%26#39;m unemployed right now I think looking for a job is more important. ;) Maybe if I strike it rich I will go!

Roll Call for Jan.

I am not a frequent visitor, but 7 of us will be there Jan 3-6. I am always up for getting together with new people and having a bunch of drinks!

let me know if you want to meet up and when would be a good time?????

I will be there Jan 2 - 11. Going for CES.

Jan 16-20 at the MGM. Ill be expecting TR%26#39;s from everyone there the couple weeks before me!

I have no schedule except for Cirque on Friday night (the 4th). We are staying at TI. Where are you staying?

We%26#39;re staying at Bellagio for nights of Jan 2 %26amp; 3~ second honeymoon kinda thing. Then for the rest of the time we are staying at Grandview which is a timeshare next to Southpointe.

I am staying at CP Jan. 2 -5 and 5 - 8 at Flamingo

My husband is part of APCUG which is before CES and he wanted a couple of days of CES. I think he will not me will stay a couple of nights at the yuk yuk Riviera, I told him no way for me, he has some functions that are there and want the convenience for the meetings and socials. I just want Vegas for it finest, drinking, gambling and fun, fun.

Staying at TI Jan 2 - 8- First time staying at TI- I hope to have a great time as I always do in Vegas.

Patty

We are going to Vegas for our first time January 2-6 and staying at Bellagio. Other than getting married on the 3rd and seeing Mystere on the 2nd we would loveto meet someone or anyone for drinks!!

Unfortunately being a newbie I can%26#39;t really recommend where.

Keep me posted!!

Celine's show to be in theaters...

A New Day will be in theaters for Dec. 17th only...

www.fathomevents.com/details.aspx?eventid=691

Celine's show to be in theaters...

I just got a call today from Caesar%26#39;s offering me 2 free tickets to go see Celine%26#39;s last show on Dec 15. I would love to be there.

Celine's show to be in theaters...

Wow...I would really take them up on that offer...a fantastic production that you won%26#39;t regret =)

I have seen her show twice but would love to be there for the last one. There is no way I could go at that time.

I%26#39;m wondering how the show is going to appear in the theaters. There%26#39;s nothing like the real deal but it%26#39;s bound to be great. I%26#39;ve seen it three times and would go again. She added River Deep Mountain High between the second and third time I went.

We are really hoping for a miracle that some one won%26#39;t show up for their tickets on a day we are out there 9-14, and we will be able to get a couple. Would love to see her.

Free tickets?? Why??

People are paying THOUSANDS on Ebay for those last night tics.

If you can%26#39;t go, get them and sell them on.....................

By the way, I have 3 tickets for the 9th December. Wife, sister and their friend going. It%26#39;s possible though that the friend is happy to sell her ticket if anyone is interested??

PM me..........................

I%26#39;d have thought that any free tickets would come via a host and would have to be collected in person. Not a lot of chance (quite correctly) to abuse things by scalping them.

As for watching live music on screen, I%26#39;ve never quite seen the point of it. That even goes for acts that I really like. A live music experience should be just that - live.

I am a diamond member at Harrah%26#39;s and I am assuming that is why I was offered the free tickets. I have to be there to collect the tickets so there is no way of selling them. If I could go there is no way I would sell them. I would love to be at that last show.

WOW thats some comp. Worth possible fortune......................

Was a great show last year I saw with wife. Last week should be good atmosphere.

leaving tonight... one last quick question re: Paris

I keep singing ';I%26#39;m So Excited';!!! We%26#39;re leaving later today. My husband has a conference and my mom is coming with us since we are taking our 4 month old. We are staying at Paris as my mom gets comped rooms and wanted to stay there.

She called today and they gave her a choice of 2 rooms on the 30th floor, which have been renovated, but no view or 2 rooms on a lower floor that do have a view of the fountains.

I%26#39;m looking for any feedback about the difference in the two.

I also was wondering what an average tip would be for a limo from the airport to the hotel. I booked with Presidential Limos for the $114 champagne and roses round trip transfer.

I wanted to thank everyone whho posts on this forum, it has been a wealth of information it has gotten me so excited for this trip!

leaving tonight... one last quick question re: Paris

for the rooms can%26#39;t your mom help with thi since she gets the comps she might know the property? if not it%26#39;s a personal decision between view v renovated room - pick what%26#39; important to you

tip 15-20%, split each way since you may not have the same driver each leg

leaving tonight... one last quick question re: Paris

We stayed at the Paris last year and were upgraded to strip / fountain view. It had a very good view of the Eiffel Tower but then the view of the fountain was 30% blocked by it (bang in the middle in my case).

I didn%26#39;t know they were renovating rooms at Paris. May be it%26#39;s worth a try cos the old rooms were showing their age.

Overall Paris is a nice hotel and you will enjoy it. Have a great trip.

Only you can decide whether you prefer a room with a fountain view or a room with updated, new furnishings.

I can%26#39;t help with Paris but can help with the limo tipping.

Just like with a restaurant server, tipping limo drivers should be based on services rendered. If the driver simply does their job a $10 tip is appropriate each way depending on how many bags you have. On the other hand, if they take you to a store for snacks, water, booze etc. or on a short Striip tour or just otherwise go above and beyond, a $20 tip or more is in order. The last and least desirable situation would be a grumpy, lazy or otherwise bad driver. They should get from less than $10 to 0 for a tip.

BTW, that was 2 questions, not one. ;-)

We stayed at Paris in April and were given a non-renovated room. The room itself was ok, but the king bed had a serious sag to it and the A/C didn%26#39;t work well. I called the front desk and they moved us to a renovated room. The furnishings were so much nicer ... new bed, new linens, new loveseat, new carpet. The bathroom looked the same (both were really nice with separate glass shower, tub and lots of counter space). We didn%26#39;t have a view in either room, so I can%26#39;t comment on that. But my vote would be for the nicer furnishings.

...or you could get one on the 30th and one on the lower floor, so one room would have the view. (just a thought) I would probably go for the renovated room, but that is just me and have been to Vegas so many times that view isn%26#39;t as important to me sometimes as the condition of the room.

I remember your posts from the initial planning, so please let us know when you return how the trip goes and if you enjoy your stay...and hope you have a relaxing time (what a great Mom)!!!!

oops you%26#39;re right Dr. Vegas, I did sneak in a second question, thanks for the reply though!

I think we will go with the renovated rooms and forgo the view. I have a feeling I%26#39;ll be spending more time in the room than I want to so a nicer room is kind of important.

I%26#39;ll be sure to post a report when I get back. Hopefully I%26#39;ll be able to try some restaurants, bars, and the slushie drinks!!

Thanks again!

Just a thought... you can go see both rooms if they are still available at check-in and then make your decision!!!

Thanks scruises.. that%26#39;s a good idea. I think we may be too tired though since it will be after 1am our time when we get there.

I wonder could we stay in the renovated room tonight and possibly switch to a room with a view tomorrow??

mike%26#39;sgirl....

I just stayed in a fountain view non-renovated room in October...I have stayed at Paris many times in the past few years, and have always managed to get a fountain view. They are amazing!!!! To me...there is nothing like sitting in a dark room at the end of the night....and watching those fountains. =)

The non-renovated rooms are still very nice IMO. Yes....they don%26#39;t have fancy flat screen TV%26#39;s...but the bathrooms are big...separate glass shower and tub......and I think they are still very nice. Of course I haven%26#39;t stayed in a renovated room, so I don%26#39;t know what I%26#39;m missing! LOL......

I think you%26#39;ll be happy with either.....but for me, I%26#39;d go for those fountains! =) I was on the 22nd floor if you need a reference point and had an amazing view......