Las Vegas (Part II) [Archive]

JLRenheos

02-14-2007, 09:08 PM

DelSol AND CindyLouWho - I just booked my ticket this evening to see the Cirque Du Soleil show, KA'! I'm really excited!

We have our show booked for Thurs. March 29th at the 9:30 p.m. show! Also, my friend gave me a PROMO CODE to get the discount (1/2 off)! We were able to get our ticets for no more than $70. They said that they were reg. $140 tickets.

My husband isn't going, but my friends are & I'll be sitting right next to them!

DelSol My gf at work(who's in her early 50's saw Zumanity last yr. w/her husband and she said that about 1/2 way through, they just got up and walked out. She told me that they knew it was *very* erotic/sexual/graphic. I'm thinking that it was waaay to much for them.
What is THE best description that you can tell me about the show w/o being to graphic?

My bosses friend who's in their early 40's said that they did the same thing - they just got up & walked out about 1/2 way through.

Not that I wouldn't want to go see the show & see for myself what they're talking about, but I don't know if I'd want to waste my $ doing that.
Actually, it makes me want to see it MORE.

jimmysgirl424

02-15-2007, 10:45 AM

Zumanity is a risque show that explores ALL aspects of human sexuality; gay, straight, bi-sexual, you name it, its in there. While there is some nudity, I found none of it to be offensive or out of line with what they were attempting to portray. If you are at all shy or old-fashioned about sex, my advice is don't go. But DH and I saw it together and really enjoyed it. It has its own very unique flavor and personality, as does every Cirque show. Be advised...there is a big 'orgy' scene at the end and they do ask for audience participation. I think they just pick a few people at random, but you aren't dragged up there against your will or anything. We didn't participate, but don't worry...no actual penetration involved! ;)

DelSol

02-16-2007, 02:04 PM

Be advised...there is a big 'orgy' scene at the end and they do ask for audience participation. I think they just pick a few people at random, but you aren't dragged up there against your will or anything. We didn't participate, but don't worry...no actual penetration involved! ;)

Hmm I must have missed that part. :p

JLRenheos ~ Here is their website and you can view a clip of the show. http://www.zumanity.com/ I have to agree with Kym's description. I didn't find it offensive, honestly I never heard of it until I got to Vegas, saw a clip of the show at NY NY and said to DH I want to see that show, something just peaked my interest. I saw the show a couple of years ago now. I remember laughing at some of the skits.

If you are going with girl friends, I say skip this show, it's something you want to see with your DH.

This is from NY NY's website:
It's Vegas, be a little provocative. Unveil your inhibitions with ZUMANITY™, The Sensual Side of Cirque du Soleil. Explore the irresistible essence of love during this dance with desire, destined to entice. A phenomenally talented international cast of 50 eclectic and flirtatious performers and musicians will engage you on a 90-minute encounter erotically blending movement, style, acrobatics, uninhibited costumes, and beautiful bodies with the sensual caress of the human voice and exotic rhythms. Seduction will meet you at the door...now that's a Las Vegas show!

MrsSmith

02-16-2007, 05:54 PM

Have any of you ever done the Hoover Dam tours or Grand Canyon tours out of Las Vegas? Hubby really wants to see both. I've seen a huge variety of tours and prices online and was just hoping to get some presonal recommendations. Also, is it any cheaper to get tickets ahead of time online or can I get just about the same prices at the venue?

JLRenheosWe'll be there March 21-26. Have you decided what other shows you're going to see?

snowzilla

02-16-2007, 06:36 PM

We just did the Hoover Dam tour two weeks ago. I highly recommend it. After the prices you pay on the Strip, the cost of the Hoover Dam tour will seem like an incredible bargain. ;) We paid 11 dollars each for the actual tour, and 7 dollars for parking in the parkade. (There is a public "free" lot but it is across the dam, and you have to park and walk a distance back. I'm lazy. Take my seven dollars, please. ;) )

It was definitely well worth it to see the inside of the dam, and our tour guide was great. The first part of the tour is guided, and then you're free to explore the rest of the exhibits at your own leisure. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip.

Sazoo

02-16-2007, 06:42 PM

MrsSmith, I went on a bus tour out to Hoover Dam a couple of years ago with DH & MIL when we were in Vegas. Unfortunately I have no idea which tour company it was through because MIL booked it for us and it was about a year and a half ago. :(

However, I did really enjoy the tour. :) That was the first trip to Vegas where I got away from the Strip/downtown area, and the tour guide was funny and told us all sorts of interesting stuff about Las Vegas' history, the recent growth (new housing developments are popping up everywhere in the desert there these days!), recent ownership changes and expansion plans for the Strip hotels and casinos, etc. Hoover Dam itself was interesting - it was nice to get off the bus and have something to look at and learn about for a bit. We went on the tour down into the dam, which was pretty brief. There was a short movie, too, about the history of how the dam was built, which was interesting. We walked around up top, took pictures, etc. then ate a quick snack and got back on the bus.

Oh, the tour we did also took us to the Ethel M chocolate factory for a brief tour and a visit to the gift shop. Nothing too exciting to see, but the chocolates are good (we got free samples) and we bought a bunch to bring home for friends as gifts. ;)

Anyway, whether you decide to go on a tour or drive to the dam yourself, enjoy! :D

JLRenheos

02-16-2007, 06:51 PM

MrsSmithWe'll miss you out there by 1 day! I'll be out there from Tuesday, March 27 - Tuesday, April 3.
As far as shows, I highly recommend seeing the show "O". That is THE show & book NOW if you're interested in seeing the show!! Crazy Girls was just o.k.. We actually liked Jubilee. It is a variety show & it was better than I had thought, but nothing like any of the Cirque shows.

On our up & coming vacation, we're going to see KA'. I'm excited!

**KÀ by Cirque du Soleil is an unprecedented theatrical event. A masterpiece in storytelling, KÀ uses acrobatic performances, the thrills and action of martial arts techniques from all over the world, plus innovations in puppetry and multimedia to tell the epic tale of twins on a perilous journey to fulfill their shared destiny.
Along the way, the twins confront characters and events representing the opposing forces of good and evil. Before their world comes under attack and collapses around them, the twins receive a magical talisman for protection. As the plot unfolds, danger lies in wait for them at every turn.
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil brings the visual language of cinema to a dazzling live event that is more about storytelling than any previous Cirque du Soleil production.
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil is an unprecedented theatrical event. A masterpiece in storytelling, KÀ uses acrobatic performances, the thrills and action of martial arts techniques from all over the world, plus innovations in puppetry and multimedia to tell the epic tale of twins on a perilous journey to fulfill their shared destiny.
Along the way, the twins confront characters and events representing the opposing forces of good and evil. Before their world comes under attack and collapses around them, the twins receive a magical talisman for protection. As the plot unfolds, danger lies in wait for them at every turn.
KÀ by Cirque du Soleil brings the visual language of cinema to a dazzling live event that is more about storytelling than any previous Cirque du Soleil production.**

Now, our friends liked 'The Price is Right' over at Bally's. I forget the game show personality hosted the show(from some dating show). They didn't win any money nor did they get on stage, but they had Fun! I think it costs them around $40 for that!

My husband & I took a tour of the Hoover Damn. We liked it! However, we took a 1/2 day tour, because my husband wanted to hang out on the strip & gamble.
I don't know what company we used, but my friend picked up a brochure that someone was passing out on the strip & he grabbed it for us. We didn't do the cactus thing & we also didn't do the Ethyl M's choc. place either.
It was worth going, because we got to see more of the city!
Sounds cheesy, but sit in the very front seats(same side of doors) of the tour bus if you go - they're the BEST seats on the bus. Visually, you'll be able to see everything! You'll also get a lot of info. about Vegas, Hoover Damn, the city & other towns from your tour guide.
It truly is Amazing! Take Pictures!! It is very HOT out there at the Damn. We also paid the extra $ for the Gov.'t guided tour, to go underground. It was worth it because we'll probably never do it again.

From my LJ: (from our Sept. '06 Vacation)
Since our friends saw & visited Hoover Damn the last time they were out there, my DH and I decided to take an Express Hoover Damn tour(1/2 day) together, while they did the 'Price is Right' at Bally's.
Hoover Damn is incredible! It truly is something worth going out to see if you're ever out in Nevada. It was a short trip, but well worth it. I'd wish we'd spent more time out there. The views of Lake Mead were beautiful. Oh, and hey! at leas I can say that we visited Arizona for about 5 min.! ;)

We're thinking about doing the Grand Canyon tour this vacation, but not for sure. We'll see...

Sazoo

02-16-2007, 06:52 PM

allison

02-16-2007, 06:53 PM

DH and I took a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon one year. We both got a little nauseous in the beginning, but really enjoyed the ride and views. DH booked it a few weeks in advance, but I don't remember what company we used. I do remember that we were picked up at our hotel by the company and left from the airport. I actually fell asleep on the ride home and missed the beautiful views of Red Rock Canyon. :p

JLRenheos

02-16-2007, 07:06 PM

sazoo, If you've been wanting to see the show "O" for a looong time, then I'd go with "O".
It was visually stunning & everything more!
I'm seeing the show KA' on March 29th, so I'm not much help.

Are you booking online before your trip, calling the Bellagio direct(for "O" show) & purchasing tickets over the phone OR are you just going to wait until you are there? We paid the $150 ticket price & we sat 9 rows from the front, dead center. It's worth it, IMO.
BTW, if you do end up going with the show, "O" - I hope you find great seats! You won't be disappointed.

Originally posted by snowzilla You can find the link here on the 1st page in the OLD Vegas First-Timer thread)!
Blue Man Group, on the other hand, I'm sorry to say did not live up to the hype. I was a huge fan prior to seeing their show live - I have a couple of their cd's, and I was really looking forward to seeing them live. However, it felt like they did a lot less playing and a lot more acting - funny skits, sure, but I lost count of how many times they filled space by standing at the edge of the stage and staring out into the audience with wide eyes, and then at each other. In the end, it was still very entertaining, but I think my disappointment stems from wanting to see them PLAY, which they simply didn't do as much of as I had expected.

Ericka_Jarett

02-16-2007, 08:20 PM

We drove to both the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon, we just wanted to explore both at our leisure and DH wanted to be able to get pics without rushing. We stayed for 2 nights at the GC in one of the South rim cabins. We were about 20 ft from the edge.

Definately go see both, with or without a tour.

DelSol

02-16-2007, 08:30 PM

MrsSmith ~ I've done both. You can drive to the Hoover Dam it's pretty close, I'd skip the bus tour and just drive yourself. Grand Canyon bus tour is a very long day but seeing the Grand Canyon is worth it though. We did the South Rim tour and we went in March 2005. I actually got a great price for my Grand Canyon tickets because they were having a special and I booked online. I don't remember who we used. I would book ahead of time this way you get the day you want and if there are online specials you get them also.

We were just in Vegas in December and thought about doing the helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon but we were low on funds. DH didn't want to do the bus tour again.

emmasart

02-17-2007, 01:50 AM

I'm torn about whether to buy tickets for "O" or "KA" for our upcoming trip to Vegas, March 3rd-7th. Everyone has positive reviews for both shows. Both are Cirque du Soleil. We've seen (and enjoyed) Cirque shows before, but not any of their Vegas shows. I've wanted to see "O" for years now, so that's kind of my top choice. Tickets for "O" on the nights we could go are selling fast though...the seats left are way back on the side in the upper balcony and are only for the late show times. I wonder if it's still worth it?

We saw "O" when we were in vegas. It was the only Cirque show that we've seen in Las Vegas (we've seen some of their traveling shows, and have LOVED them.). I personally wasn't horribly impressed by our seats or the show. I tried to buy tickets 4 months in advance, and the only seats available were up in the balcony, a couple rows back, and off center. For $105 per person, or whatever we paid, they definitely were not worth it. Yeah, we could see the stage, but everything was so far away that it wasn't THAT impressive. Also, there were a couple of scenes that took place in the lower aisles, that we were totally unable to see or hear what was happening. All we could do was hear the people beneath us laughing, and it was really annoying. I'd say that if if your only available seats for "O" are in the upper balcony, save your money and see another show. Good luck!

DelSol

02-19-2007, 10:29 AM

For those looking for a deal in Vegas:

http://excalibur.com/offers/2007/feb_rw_celebration/images/castle2.jpg
http://excalibur.com/offers/2007/feb_rw_celebration/images/copy2.jpg
http://excalibur.com/offers/2007/feb_rw_celebration/images/calendar2.gif
http://excalibur.com/offers/2007/feb_rw_celebration/images/phone2.gif
http://excalibur.com/offers/2007/feb_rw_celebration/images/offerValid2.gif

I have stayed at this hotel a few times, it's not a bad hotel, it is just getting old and is due for some renovations. The majority of the time you are only there to sleep & shower.

MrsSmith

02-20-2007, 07:58 AM

Thank you, thank you, thank you so much for all the info on the Hoover Dam tours and GC tours!!! I'm excited now. We're out there for 5 days, so I think it'd be worth it to taKe one day and do the historic stuff too. I'm leaning toward the bus tour that does both. It says it's 11 hours, but it also stops at an Indian reservation between Hovver Dam and GC for lunch and shopping. It's pretty pricey for a bus trip, but it's something I don't think we'll ever do again.

I have no idea what shows we're going to do. I kinda want to do a cheesy one just for laughs and then a really good one. Is there any advantage to buying tickets online? I've heard that you can get pretty good deals when you're on the Strip. I'm also thinking about seeing Jay Leno at the Mirage on Friday. He's one of my favorite comedians.

DelSol

02-20-2007, 08:24 AM

MrsSmith ~ I didn't try this because I found out about both places while I was in Vegas. You can buy discounted tickets for certain shows on the strip and select locations, some offer 50% off. Tickets2Nite (http://www.tickets2nite.com/) and Tix4Tonight (http://www.lasvegasleisureguide.com/lasvegas/calls/c-t2fr4.htm).

Coupons:
coupon #1 (http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/tix-4-tonight-coupon.htm)

coupon #2 (http://www.lasvegasleisureguide.com/lasvegas/calls/c-t2fr4.htm)

MrsSmith

02-20-2007, 10:46 PM

Thanks! I'll check those out!

Taylandra

02-25-2007, 04:59 PM

FYI about the deal that DelSol posted: You must be a Player's Member to use this b/c it apparently went out in an e-mail to only those people. You can visit this
https://www.playersclub.com/Default.asp
site and sign up to use the deal before March 1.

ETA: Ok, they apparently keep track of which player's club members they sent this e-mail to. They told me that if I forward them the e-mail with this deal that I can get it. Does anyone have a copy of that e-mail? Please PM me if you do!

There is a similar deal that went out to people on their general e-mail list. On the same dates, you get $30 in match play, $25 in dining credit, and the room rate is $51. This is also only good until March 1.

;-)

Daisy

02-26-2007, 02:14 PM

DH just confirmed a meeting in Vegas next week and I decided to tag along...I am soooo excited to do some shopping!! And I'm excited that it will be in the low-70's while I'm there.

We're staying at the Venetian (where the conf is, I haven't stayed there before) and it doesn't look like we'll have time for a show. :( I swear, I end up in Vegas every 2-3 years and I have yet to go to a stinking show!

Rosebud

02-26-2007, 02:34 PM

Daisy-- lucky you getting to stay at The Venetian! It's such a great hotel. I was there last month and posted some info about restaurants HERE (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1155882&postcount=159) if you'd like to read it. Have fun!

Daisy

02-26-2007, 05:00 PM

Thanks Rosebud! One of DH's social events is at TAO and he is going to be so excited when I tell him about the fortune cookie full of mousse!

Yeah, I'm excited to stay at a place I haven't stayed at before, I've heard that the Venetian is nice (and nicer that his work is paying! :D ).

kcjaime

02-27-2007, 09:22 AM

MsRo

02-27-2007, 09:26 AM

kcjaime, you will love the Bellagio! We stayed there when in Vegas for a wedding in October of '06 and it was wonderful!! Be sure to take some time to watch the fountains at night - they're the coolest free thing to do on the strip!

karen

02-27-2007, 10:11 AM

kcjaime, We know some people that live in LV and they love the Phantom of the Opera. They've gone to see it many many times and constantly rave about it.

kcjaime

02-27-2007, 11:19 AM

MsRo I'm definitely looking forward to seeing the fountains. I've heard lots about them! DH went to Vegas last year and took lots of pics, but I'm sure seeing them in person is totally different!

Karen I am SUPER excited about Phantom. We've seen the regular production elsewhere more than once, but I've heard this production is a bit different, so I'm anxious to see it! :)

Sazoo

03-03-2007, 12:11 AM

I've visited this thread several times for ideas in the past, and now I just wanted to post b/c we're going to Vegas on Thursday until Sunday! We are celebrating our five year wedding anniversary. :) We're staying at the Bellagio and we're also going to see "Phantom of the Opera" and "O", which I'm super excited about!

I've never been to Vegas before, so it should be a fun adventure!I'm so jealous that a) you're staying at the Bellagio and b) you're going to see O! We're flying to Vegas tomorrow (yay!) & we'll be seeing Phantom of the Opera too, but probably not the same show performance day/time as you since you're leaving on Sunday (we're going Sunday evening). Next trip to Vegas I MUST plan ahead & get tickets for O! By the time I started looking into it for this trip there were only seats in the far back of the balcony left, or partial view seats, so I figured it would be best to save that show for sometime when we can get better seats.

Hope you're enjoying your time in Vegas! I'm sure excited that we leave tomorrow...woohoo, vacation!! :p

MrsSmith

03-08-2007, 09:04 PM

kcjaime, Sazoo - Are you back from vacation? Any recommendations on shows or eateries? I hope you all had a great time!

Daisy

03-08-2007, 09:25 PM

I just got back (and have fully recovered!) from Vegas. I went with DH, whose work hosted some events. The Venetian was super nice. This trip was probably the most fun in Vegas that I have ever had. Due to the people we were with (DH's work) (and the people they know), we got serious VIP treatment at Tao (at the Venetian) and at Jet (at the Mirage).

DH's work hosted a dinner at Tao one night. The food at Tao was good - unfortunately we didn't get to order that fortune cookie full of mousse because our event was catered :( - but it was all very good.

During the day it was nice enough to lay out by the pool (it was so nice) and I did some shopping at Caesar's and at the Venetian.

We also ate at Stacks (Stachs?) at the Mirage - very good as well. They brought us a little of everything off the menu so we were able to try a lot. We had several plates where you cook the meat over the hot rocks (which I thought was so cool!) and it was surprisingly really good.

Finally, we went out Monday night to Jet and got some serious VIP treatment (it was SUPER!!) (again, all due to who we were with...) - big VIP area, free flowing drinks, private host - it was incredible. I won't be able to go back to Vegas now without this kind of treatment! :p

Sazoo

03-08-2007, 11:31 PM

kcjaime, Sazoo - Are you back from vacation? Any recommendations on shows or eateries? I hope you all had a great time!We just got home last night, and yes we had a great time in Vegas. :) We stayed in a "players deluxe" room at the Luxor, which was nicer than the standard Luxor rooms and was more affordable than the nicer/newer hotels where we really wanted to stay.

We saw Phantom of the Opera on Sunday evening at the Venetian. We went to the early performance (5 pm) & it was not super crowded; in fact, we moved a few rows back to have more room & sit more in the center. We were on the upper balcony but the view was great. I was so impressed with the sets for this show, they were really fantastic! I've seen stage performances of Phantom before but this one was really good, & we both enjoyed it. Although it was not my top choice of shows to see (I still really want to see O!) I would definitely recommend it.

The only other "show" we saw was the free Sirens pirate show thing outside of "TI" (Treasure Island) which I thought was pretty lame. I mean, the old pirate battle show was kind of lame too I guess, but this one was worse, IMO. Of course maybe I would have enjoyed it more if I wasn't stuck in the middle of this huge crush of people on the boardwalk where I could hardly see anything to begin with... *shrug*

Anyway, after we got out of Phantom we wandered through the Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian and ended up at TinToretto for dinner. It was slightly less expensive than the other restaurants we stopped to check out, & the food was delicious! I had baked lasagna & a side salad, DH had lentil soup & a yummy smoked salmon & blue cheese (or was it gorgonzola?) salad. They have a bakery there that made all sorts of tasty-looking desserts, so we shared a napoleon & mocha tiramisu. MMM! They just have a small "outside" seating area (the inside part is just the bakery counter, I think), & we really enjoyed sitting there people-watching, etc. :)

The only other restaurants we ate at that are worth mentioning were: Nine Fine Irishmen at New York New York, which is an Irish pub that has a really fun atmosphere & delicious fish & chips - we went there specifically so I could get that, because I remembered how much I enjoyed it when we stayed at NY NY 2 years ago. ;) This time we went for lunch instead of dinner, & it was great food & fun times listening to the live musician sing, etc. The other good meal we had was at a restaurant called Grotto, which is downtown at the Golden Nugget. It's Italian/seafood mostly. I had seafood ravioli which was good but not fantastic, but the gnochi with bolognese (sp?) sauce that MIL ordered & the pear & gorgonzola ravioli DH ordered were wonderful. Oh, we also had a really great calamari appetizer there, too.

So anyway, we had a fun trip - we spent half of our time up on the Strip & half downtown (we stayed 2 nights at Main Street Station downtown, because we got an offer to stay there for free), which worked out well. The only thing we didn't have time for that I had really wanted to do was see the Bellagio fountains - that's my favorite "free" show on the Strip! :(

MrsSmith

03-09-2007, 04:47 PM

Thanks ladies!! I'm glad to hear you both had a good time. I'm getting excited about my trip. I have an opportunity to get buy one get one free tickets to one show and I'm not sure which one to choose yet. But I'm definitely going to try some of the dining options that you both suggested. Thanks again!

kcjaime

03-12-2007, 10:17 AM

Sorry for posting so late after my return, but better late than never. I had an awesome time in Vegas. We stayed at the Bellagio, which was BEAUTIFUL. Just the lobby is amazing! The service was great and the concierge was very friendly, which was nice.

We saw Phantom of the Opera and O, the Cirque show. I loved both! I must confess that I am a Phantom addict and have seen the show countless times elsewhere, but this theatre was really spectacular, and we were seated right beneath the chandelier, which was very cool. :) It was packed when we saw it, as it was a friday night, and I was so impressed with the show! It's only slightly shorter than the regular production.

O was also fantastic. I'd never seen a Cirque show before, so I didn't really know what to expect, but it was unbelievable! I still don't know how they do all of the things they do, but I really liked it and actually bought the soundtrack on Itunes when I got home.

We ate at a place inside the Bellagio called Fix, and it was great food. We ate there our first night in Vegas for the convenience factor, and luckily got in without a reservation since we were hotel guests. We also ate the Bellagio Buffet for breakfast the next day, which was very good. I'm just not a good buffet person, though, b/c I never eat more than one plate. :p

Another night we ate at this new restaurant over in the Forum Shops of the Caesar's Palace hotel & casino. It is called Trevi, and it is so good! I had this amazing baked macaroni & cheese and DH had their chicken parm. We also had a delectable appetizer called Pizzata Trevi, which was rosemary flatbread with garlic and parmesan cheese. SO GOOD!

Beyond this, we went and saw the Hoover Dam, which was great, and Lake Mead, which was beautiful, with such blue water!

It was a fantastic trip, and I would definitely go back, even if only to see more shows and eat more good food. :)

Sazoo

03-12-2007, 01:43 PM

We saw Phantom of the Opera and O, the Cirque show. I loved both! I must confess that I am a Phantom addict and have seen the show countless times elsewhere, but this theatre was really spectacular, and we were seated right beneath the chandelier, which was very cool. :) It was packed when we saw it, as it was a friday night, and I was so impressed with the show! It's only slightly shorter than the regular production.

O was also fantastic. I'd never seen a Cirque show before, so I didn't really know what to expect, but it was unbelievable! I still don't know how they do all of the things they do, but I really liked it and actually bought the soundtrack on Itunes when I got home.I agree, the Phantom theater was awesome & the chandelier was pretty cool too. Great show! I still wanna see O...maybe next trip to Vegas! ;)

We also ate the Bellagio Buffet for breakfast the next day, which was very good. I'm just not a good buffet person, though, b/c I never eat more than one plate. :p I've eaten at the Bellagio buffet twice...OMG, so much food! It's delicious, but I always leave feeling like I hardly ate anything, yet I'm stuffed! :p

Glad you had a good trip! :D

Sha259

03-12-2007, 07:33 PM

MrsSmith

03-12-2007, 10:50 PM

I used the Deuce when I was in Vegas and found it very easy. They're frequent enough to fit your schedule. I also walked most of my first day there. We just wanted to see what all of the places looked like and see what was out there. So, we just walked for the entire day and then caught the Deuce back to our hotel. Some of the hotels also have shuttles to take you to the middle of the strip.

Sazoo

03-12-2007, 11:17 PM

DH and I will be headed out to Las Vegas at the end of April, so all of these recommendations are coming at the right time. We may not be going to see shows (especially Cirque) as they are pretty expensive, but we are open to trying some nice places to eat. If you all don't mind my asking, what are the price ranges for the restaurants you visited?
Of the restaurants I mentioned above, here's about what we paid:
Nine Fine Irishmen (NY NY hotel) $55 for lunch for two including 2 alcoholic drinks
Tin Toretto (Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes area) $65 for dinner for two including 2 desserts (no alcohol)
Grotto (Golden Nugget hotel downtown) $110 for dinner for three including one appetizer but no alcohol

If any of you walked the strip, about how far are you able to walk leisurely during the day? DH and I will be at the Treasure Island, is it walkable between there and the Venetian?The Venetian is really close to TI - totally walkable, in just a few minutes. Walk about one block & then up over the walkway across Las Vegas Blvd. & you're there. :)

Really, throughout the course of a day it's possible to walk your way quite far along the strip, stopping in different casinos along the way. I would think from TI you could get down to the Bellagio/Paris/Aladin area on foot pretty easily throughout the day, then if you don't want to walk back, catch a bus or take the monorail train. We road the monoral from the MGM Grand, got off at Harrah's, then it was just a short walk to the Venetian & TI. I haven't ridden the bus in Vegas since they opened the monorail, but it was fine when I rode it about 5 years ago (the bus) & I'm sure it's cheaper than the train. The buses run frequently too - probably 24/7, I would imagine, although I'm not sure about riding one really late at night. *shrug*

Enjoy your trip! :)

MrsSmith

03-13-2007, 08:38 AM

I haven't ridden the bus in Vegas since they opened the monorail, but it was fine when I rode it about 5 years ago (the bus) & I'm sure it's cheaper than the train. The buses run frequently too - probably 24/7, I would imagine, although I'm not sure about riding one really late at night. *shrug*

Enjoy your trip! :)

I rode the Deuce fairly late into the night and there was still a large crowd on there. It was never empty, so I felt totally safe. There were some winos at the bus stop, but they didn't bother anyone.

shopaholic

03-13-2007, 01:15 PM

I think I have decided to go to Vegas the first week in October (wed-sat). Will that be enough days to do things!? I've never been so this will be my first time. We both aren't really interested in gambling...maybe an hour TOPS! I am more interested in walking the strip and seeing all the hotels...doing some shopping...maybe seeing a show here or there.

Is October usually super busy?? It seems the avg. high is 80 low is 50 degrees so the temp should be good. I do want it to be hot enough to swim.

I found a price for airfare/hotel (NY NY) for $531/pp. Does that sound right!? I am wondering if we should fly in Wednesday fly out Sunday. I am afraid that the trip will be so short!

shopaholic

03-13-2007, 01:18 PM

Does the Phantom run through the end of 07? I would like to see it and searched for tickets for early oct. and it said no matches.

EJH

03-13-2007, 01:54 PM

Anyone seen any fabulous flight deals to Vegas?

There is some big fabulous horse show there that my DP would love to attend, and I was thinking I'd surprise her with a quick trip out there in April. My folks and ILs live there (well, FIL lives there, MIL is moving there when they sell their place here), but I digress. So it would be a bonus to see them and they'd all get to see DD. Plus my mom loves horses so she'd have someone to go with to this thing.

ANYHOO the cheapest I'm finding is $330ish/person and since we'd be buying 3 tickets, that's steep.

Any thoughts??

Thanks,
Erin

DelSol

03-13-2007, 02:14 PM

EJH ~ I would try searching Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz and then check the actual websites of the air carrier. I flew to Vegas in December and paid $475 for both DH & I. April might be a hard time getting a cheap flight because of the Easter holiday and spring break. I've found cheap flights on US Airways & SouthWest. Looks like Southwest is having a special offer:
Book by March 22 for travel March 27 through August 24, 2007 with 14-day advance purchase:
Travel systemwide from $49 to $179 one-way.

It also depends on the day you are leaving. We left on a Wednesday, had we left on a Monday/Tuesday, it would have been double.

Good Luck!

MrsSmith

03-13-2007, 11:04 PM

EJH - I don't know if you're willing to take the chance, but we found cheaper flights about 4 weeks before the trip. I started looking months in advance and the tickets were around $275/pp. We got our tickets a few weeks ago for $180/pp.

EJH

03-14-2007, 10:14 AM

Thanks Del Sol and Mrs. Smith!

My ILs have been getting ridiculously good deals booking last minute (he's living there for work, she's not yet moved) ....

I talked to DP about it last night and since this horse show is there every year she wants to do it next year since it's so last minute at this point in terms of getting tickets to the particular aspects of the horse show she wants to attend. PLUS this year she'd rather spend that $$ on getting a new horse rather than on the trip :rolleyes: . Oh well. I may keep my eye out for super super cheap tickets just on the off chance. We'll see...

Thanks!
Erin

MrsSmith

03-16-2007, 08:18 AM

Ok ladies, I leave next week! I still haven't decided what shows to go and see. I went to vegas.com to look at the reviews and I'm still undecided.

Anyway, another question...are there things that you did other than shows that you can recommend...like spas, or just cool amusements and things to see?

Sazoo

03-16-2007, 09:32 AM

Anyway, another question...are there things that you did other than shows that you can recommend...like spas, or just cool amusements and things to see?There are several free things you can see/do in Vegas, like seeing the lions at the MGM Grand, watching the dancing fountains outside of the Bellagio, watching the pirate/Sirens show outside of TI (Treasure Island), going downtown at night to watch the laser show on Fremont Street, etc. I've also enjoyed viewing & rating new TV show ideas at the NBC viewing studio at the MGM Grand - one of the shows I previewed there a few years ago actually showed up on TV a few months later (it sucked, though! :p)

A few years ago I went to the Shark Reef exhibit at Mandalay Bay and the Secret Garden exhibit at the Mirage. Shark Reef was overrated, IMO - it's just an aquarium. I enjoyed the Secret Garden though - we got to see a great dolphin performance (they didn't do "shows" per se, but you could watch the trainers training them to jump, do tricks, etc.) & the other animals there were pretty neat, too - sort of like a mini zoo.

There's also a Madam Tussauds wax museum at the Venetian, but I haven't been in there so I don't know if it's worth what it costs or not.

Sadly, I haven't yet checked out any of the spas at the Vegas hotels I've stayed at, so no advice there. I'm sure many of them are fabulous, though!

Enjoy your trip!

jimmysgirl424

03-16-2007, 10:18 AM

Not free, but fairly minimal charges on them:

The Stratosphere tower. Of course, if you want to ride any of the daredevil rides they have up there, its more. But then they give you a combined rate/discount. Also, if you eat at the Top of the World restaurant (awesome!), your tower admission is free.

The Eiffel Tower at the Paris. Not sure how much it costs.

There is a free show every hour and half (or maybe two hours) at Ceaser's Forum Shops.

Not cheap but a nice distraction is the gondola ride at Venetian. If you want a private ride, its even more expensive. And its rather short for the money, but still....

Roller coaster Speed at the Sahara. Much smoother than the Manhattan Express at NY NY, which is rough, bumpy and gave me and DH both a horrendous headache. I will add that the NY NY itself is a very cool place to walk around and check out. Ditto the Luxor.

The conservatory at Bellagio. Its a huge, themed flower garden and they change it seasonally. Even DH loved it and he's not a flower kind of guy. :p

DH and I also did a sunset horseback riding trip through Red Rock Canyon that included a dinner back at the cowboy's camp afterwards that was totally awesome! Let me know if you want more info on that.

MrsSmith

03-16-2007, 10:40 AM

Thank you so much ladies!!

jimmysgirl, which tour company did you use? How long was the tour and did you have to drive to a location to get there or do they provide transportation from Las Vegas?

jimmysgirl424

03-16-2007, 12:40 PM

Thank you so much ladies!!

jimmysgirl, which tour company did you use? How long was the tour and did you have to drive to a location to get there or do they provide transportation from Las Vegas?

Here is a link to the one we used:
http://www.looktours.com/redrock_horses.html

It was a whole evening thing, I think from around 4 pm to well after 9. They use a really nice chartered bus service that picks up in multiple locations/hotels around the city. We walked to the hotel next door to catch ours and we stayed downtown on Fremont. Oh, and the campfire barbecue supper was awesome! You order ahead of time which entree you want, steak, chicken or salmon. When you get back to camp, they have everything ready to go and its a HUGE amount of food and you can have as much as you want. If I recall, baked potato, baked beans, salad, corn on the cob, rolls, beer, soda, hot chocolate were all on the menu. YUMMY! :D

MrsSmith

03-17-2007, 11:22 PM

Thank you so much for that link! I'm going to book a tour to the Grand Canyon through them. We leave in 4 days! can't wait!

jimmysgirl424

03-19-2007, 09:28 AM

I hope you have a great time, MrsSmith!! :D Come back and post how your trip went.

Taurus

03-20-2007, 10:02 AM

JLRenheos

03-25-2007, 12:32 PM

I'm leaving for Vegas on Tues. March 27th for 1 week! We're looking forward to it! We're traveling out w/another couple. We're staying at their time share right next to the Bellagio! I love waking up every morning to seeing the waterfountains at the Bellagio!!
So far, I only have 1 show booked for Thurs. and I'm seeing KA' @ the MGM Grand. We also plan on watching the final game out there for the NCAA! Can't wait! I hope I come back a Winner!! I don't want to say I went to 'LostWages' for nothing. Lol!
The four of us plan on eating at an Italian joint called Battista's. Our friends loved it.
I might be able to post an update once I get there. The place we're staying at has 2 computers w/internet access!

Maggie8202

03-25-2007, 07:15 PM

Here is a link to the one we used:
http://www.looktours.com/redrock_horses.html

It was a whole evening thing, I think from around 4 pm to well after 9. They use a really nice chartered bus service that picks up in multiple locations/hotels around the city. We walked to the hotel next door to catch ours and we stayed downtown on Fremont. Oh, and the campfire barbecue supper was awesome! You order ahead of time which entree you want, steak, chicken or salmon. When you get back to camp, they have everything ready to go and its a HUGE amount of food and you can have as much as you want. If I recall, baked potato, baked beans, salad, corn on the cob, rolls, beer, soda, hot chocolate were all on the menu. YUMMY! :D

This looks amazing! I was just thinking about booking a trip to Vegas for my DH's 30th birthday. It will be our 7th time there and was thinking I need to find something special to do. We once rented a car and drove through red rock and it was the highlight of the trip, this trip looks like it will be right up our ally!! Thank you.

snowzilla

03-25-2007, 07:55 PM

DH and I are thinking of doing a quick baby-free getaway and staying two nights at the Signature at MGM Grand (we are going primarily for relaxation but would like the option of having the Strip nearby). We want spa treatments though, too. Does anyone have any experience with the Spa at the MGM Grand? I'm assuming this spa makes the most sense for us since it is on the premises? Also, does anyone know how feasible it is to use the MGM pool rather than just the Signature's? (Could we...and would we want to?) TIA!

We didn't use the spa facilities, but just wanted to let you know that we stayed at the Signature and LOVED it. Great staff, beautiful facilities. We were very happy and would go back in a heartbeat. It's a fairly far jaunt to use the main MGM pool, but do-able (lots of moving walkways to get you there). We were there a few weeks ago, and practically nobody was using any of the pools.

snowzilla

03-25-2007, 07:56 PM

JLRenheos

03-26-2007, 11:00 AM

snowzilla

03-26-2007, 12:08 PM

snowzilla I'm really looking forward to seeing another Cirque show!! DH is not going w/me, so he'll be in the MGM casino gambling. Our friends are going & I'm sitting with them, so I won't be alone. DH doesn't know what he's going to miss out on!

Oh, he's TOTALLY missing out. He has no idea. Really. ;) My husband was originally not interested in Cirque at all - I believe his words were, "Honey, you know I'm allergic to animals" - after I picked myself up the floor from laughing so hard, I explained to him that it's not an actual "circus" in that regard. I convinced him to see Ka, and he's still talking about it, nearly two months later. He'd go back in a heartbeat.

wendalah

03-26-2007, 03:09 PM

My hubby got a sports massage at the MGM spa last year. He said it was a very nice spa, and he's been to some pretty good ones :)

JLRenheos

03-26-2007, 05:31 PM

snowzillaWe did see "O" last year. We sat 9 rows from the front almost dead center. We paid $150 pp. DH about croaked. I didn't mind. Call him cheap if you may, but he just wants to drink, gamble & watch NCAA. I tried to convince him to go w/us, but he didn't budge. He'd rather just spend his weeks gambling $ on just gambling & maybe do a few small things. This time around, we only spent about $68 pp for tix. to see KA'. He'll be sorry! I can't wait!

snowzilla

03-26-2007, 05:45 PM

How was "O"? I'm going back to Vegas in June with a group of women, and I was thinking this might be a good show. We're not faint-hearted, if you catch my drift. ;)

Taurus

03-27-2007, 02:28 PM

Thank you snowzilla and wendalah!

MrsSmith

03-28-2007, 12:10 PM

Hey ladies!

I'm back and had a great time! I did the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam tour. Amazing is all I can say. It was a full day bus tour, but I liked being able to relax and spend time at the destinations. Plus, we watched informational movies about the history of each on the way there.

Roseanne Barr was there and we caught her stand up. It was actually really good. I'm not a huge fan of hers, but hubby loved her show and really wanted to see her. We're into comedy, so we also went to a couple of comedy clubs and thoroughly enjoyed them all. We went to see V a variety show, and it was also really good.

As for dining, our FAVE was Nobhill, inside the MGM Grand. Yes, it was pricey, but delicious and we were full for several hours.

Loud_curly

03-28-2007, 01:29 PM

Mrs Smith- glad you had a good time. Ooh, DH and I LOVE Nobhill - we go every time we're in Vegas! Yummy!

Snowzilla - DH and I saw O a few years back. It was just great. My only suggestion would be to try and not sit too close to the stage - we were only a few ros back and I got the feeling that we were missing stuff b/c we were too close. Our last trip we saw Love - the new Beatles Cirque du Soleil show - and had a blast. The tix are definitely expensive, but we always try to see at least one show.

Taurus - We just stayed at the Signature in January. Fabulous!!! It was a bit of a walk, but it was also a nice way to unwind from the casino action after a long day. I've been to the MGM Grand spa before - the treatments are great, but the men and women are separate the whole time - just something to think about if you like to lounge in a hot tub together before or after treatments. I wouldn't think the MGM pool is too far of a walk - it's the first thing you come to when you enter the MGM.

jimmysgirl424

03-28-2007, 02:52 PM

Ka is hands down the BEST show I've ever seen. Truly. You'll be amazed. :)

Have to agree with this 1000%!!! DH and I saw it on our honeymoon. Two years later..still talking about it and would happily see it again. My FIL and SMIL went to Vegas last Fall and we sold them on buying tickets to see it. Yup...they still talk about it all of the time too! :D Awesome, awesome show!

Snowzilla If you are going with a group of women and haven't seen it yet, I would recommend seeing Zumanity at NY NY..particularly since you mention none of you are faint-hearted. :) DH and I saw it on the same trip that we saw KA and loved it.

JLRenheos

03-30-2007, 02:33 AM

Posting from Vegas here.

I went to see KA' this evening @ the MGM. It was really good, BUT my favorite is still "O".

It's been really cold since we've been here(27th March). I knew I should've brought a light jacket/sweatshirt of somekind. I hope it warms up by the weekend for SURE! I'm running out of warm clothes to wear for the rest of the week.

Last night, we had dinner out w/friends @ Battista's(Italian). The food was o.k., but at least you get free refills of wine-red and/or white (comes in a carafe) ;) It's off the strip between the Flamingo and Bally's?.

Today, I went to check out Siegfried & Roy's Secret Gardens and Dolphin Habitat. It was just something to go see & do. It was worth the $15, but I wouldn't pay any more than that. I was hoping to see more interaction w/the dolphins or at least see them in the large pool area.

We went to Sugar & Ice @ the Wynn & had a sundae & homemade icecream(lemon tart)

We may try out Bellagio's BB. We're definitely going to Mandalay's Burger Bar. I cannot wait to try it out!!

gayle

04-01-2007, 03:10 PM

Burger Bar is yummy!! Splurge for the Kobe burger, it's worth it!!!

Maggie8202

04-01-2007, 06:39 PM

Burger Bar is yummy!! Splurge for the Kobe burger, it's worth it!!!

We love the Burger Bar too! Didn't have the Kobe burger, but still the best burger I have ever had!

JLRenheos

04-02-2007, 02:56 AM

gayle & maggie Yes, we're DEFINITELY going to the Burger Bar @ the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino! I can't wait!! I think we're going Monday and/or Tuesday. Rachel Ray raved about this place!

thompso2

04-07-2007, 10:53 AM

gayle

04-08-2007, 06:47 AM

My DH and I are planning our first trip to Vegas this September for our anniversary, and you've all given me lots to think about. (Burger Bar is a must!)

Has anyone stayed at Bill's Gamblin' Hall & Saloon (http://www.billslasvegas.com/) (formerly the Barbary Coast)? The prices are great and it gets good reviews, but I'm wondering if we would be better off at Excalibur, Treasure Island or something more Vegas-y. We'd rather spend money on meals and activities than rooms, but we want the full Vegas experience.

Also, how hard is it to get a non-smoking room? I have asthma so it's pretty important, but it seems like most hotels on the Strip won't guarantee a non-smoking room. Any suggestions?

Finally, where should we have our anniversary dinner. (On this one, quality matters, price doesn't.)

Thanks!

I have stayed there when it was the Barbary Coast and it was quite nice for the money. I have no idea what it is like now that it has changed ownership, but my guess is that there has been some measure of rennovation, which is pretty common when a Hotel/Casino changes ownership.

One of the big benefits of this hotel is that it is fairly central strip, which puts you close to alot. It's right next door to Bally's which is directly accross the street from Bellagio (they are connected by a walkway that runs above ground). Bellagio is a wonderful place to hang out and look at things, it's utterly beautiful.

I would choose Barbary Coast over Excalibur myself, though Excalibur is kind of a fun, quirky place. However, it's at the farthest end of the strip and that counts out alot of neat, easy access site seeing.

Most Hotels have quite a bank of non-smoking rooms, and smoking in general is getting more difficult in Vegas, though it's alot more prevalent than almost anywhere else in the US. I think if you make your reservations far enough in advance, and stress the importance of a non smoking room, they should be able to accomodate you.

Here's a handy link to a map of the Strip to give you an idea of where things are.
http://www.cheapovegas.com/images/vegas_strip_map.gif

wendalah

04-08-2007, 01:05 PM

Thompso: If you can get a decent rate at T.I., I'd go for that. You'll get a much more "resort"-y feeling, and it's a fun hotel/casino overall. It's worth it to splurge a little bit on your lodging in Vegas, IMO.

Barbary Coast is sort of old-school feeling and smashed in the middle of the strip. I like going there to gamble but I really feel you can do much better with a bit more $$$. And once you get to Vegas and see all the mega-resorts--I'm just speaking for myself, but I'd be bummed having to stay at Barbary Coast after seeing all the other places.

I do not recommend Excalibur because it seems to attract a ton of families with kids. And stay away from their buffet--ew, ew, bad! I don't really mind the location, though. It's connected to Mandalay Bay and Luxor, and if you have a car, it's easy to drive around (there can be logjams on the Strip, but I've never found it THAT bad, and parking is free at all the hotels).

As for a special dinner, depends on what you want exactly. You can get just about any cuisine on the strip.

wendalah

04-08-2007, 01:10 PM

thompso2

04-08-2007, 03:30 PM

Thanks, gayle and wendalah. We won't have a car, so we'd like to be center strip. My DH is disappointed that TI isn't more pirate-themed -- I think he figures we'll just stay at Bill's unless we can find somewhere really fun.

As for our anniversary dinner, we don't have a stong preference as to cuisine. We live in NYC, so we'd like something that's very Vegas, but with good food. Maybe something like the Eiffel Tower (http://www.eiffeltowerrestaurant.com/) or something on the canals in the Venetian? Are there any stand-outs?

Maggie8202

04-08-2007, 06:45 PM

One of my all time favorites when we go to Vegas is Lawry's. It is off the strip by the Flamingo and it serves prime rib off the bone. I know they have other locations, but none are in the NY Metro area. I think the closest to NY is Chicago. It is pretty reasonably priced and the food it out of this world. It has Art Deco like decor and the service has always been amazing. You will need to take a taxi to get there.
Lawry's (http://www.lawrysonline.com/theprimerib_lasvegas_gen_info.asp)

wendalah

04-09-2007, 08:18 AM

T.I. is pretty well pirate-themed...they don't have pirate decor rooms, or anything like that, but there's a lot of pirate stuff there :)

I'm hip on this hotel because the last couple times I was in Vegas (I go there fairly often), I think they did a good job of redoing it--it's much nicer than I expected--and the crowd there is young and fun without being obnoxious.

Here are some Vegas-y restaurant ideas (not necessarily for your anniversary dinner): The Stratosphere has a revolving restaurant that overlooks the whole city. Tao in the Venetian is very "Vegas Hipster." (Not in the canals, though.) All the restaurants at the Wynn are beautiful; I think Okada is the prettiest and the food is good if you like sushi. Hugo's Cellar downtown is very old-school Vegas (they present women with a red rose and have very old-school table service--good food). Battistas (just off strip) is a super-funky old Italian joint. The Peppermill is a fun coffee shop off strip with neon EVERYWHERE...I would go there for lunch or breakfast, though, not dinner.

~queen~

04-09-2007, 08:37 AM

I'm going back to Vegas first week of May and was last there a few years ago for my first anniversary. (DH first time, my third).

We had 2 'special' dinners, one at the Stratosphere, and one at the Effiel Tower. Both were SPECTATULAR with the nod going to the Stratosphere for the food/view, and the Effiel Tower for the atmosphere.

Either way, you can't go wrong!

snowzilla

04-09-2007, 08:44 AM

Thompso, we did LOVE Tao at the Venetian, but if it's a quiet, romantic anniversary dinner you're going for, Tao is quite noisy. The food, however, is to die for. That was quite possibly the best meal we had out of the restaurants we ate at the last time we were there.

MrsSmith

04-09-2007, 06:43 PM

I'll put my vote in for Nobhill again. It's in MGM and I thought the food was amazing. The atmosphere is very cozy and romantic. There are other good places to eat in the MGM too, if price is not a concern.

As for lodging, it's easy enough to get around that you're not going to miss out on the entire strip just because you stay at one end. But be realistic about how much walking or cabbing you're willing to do. Hubby and I walked with no problem and caught the Deuce too. So, it didn't matter how close we were to a particular destination because we were willing to get there.

gayle

04-10-2007, 08:38 AM

Two other ideas for you:
Luxor--this hotel always gets mixed reviews, but I have had a good experience there in the new tower rooms. The pyramid rooms are kind of nasty. Otherwise this is a Vegas-y experience at pretty good prices, and connected to Excalibur/Mandalay Bay.

MGM--Another hotel that gets mixed reviews, but I quite like it for the price. The rooms are big and nice. The pool is great. And there are a ton of good restaurants there.

I personally like the pyramid rooms at the Luxor. They are smaller than the tower, but they are way cool and have inclined walls, also, you can walk out of your room and see down the core of the Pyramid, which is neat.

I don't like MGM. It's huge and impersonal, but there are alot of good restaurants there.

Personally, I won't usually pay the money it takes to stay at one of the resort hotels. I'd rather have that extra money for shows and play. I do agree with Wendy about Excalibur though, I'd probably skip staying there because of all the kids.

gayle

04-10-2007, 08:43 AM

Thompso, for a romantic dinner that won't break the bank, I'd suggest Olives at the Bellagio. It sits on the lake and if you get a table on the patio, you will be front and center stage for the fountains. Very romantic, and the food is excellent!

~queen~

04-11-2007, 08:15 AM

Alright you knowledgeable ladies!

I need a good, fast place to eat dinner at when our party arrives to Vegas on a Thursday Night. We won't get in until 10:45 and expect to not be settled until about 11 or 11:30.

Last time I got in that late I wasn't interested in roaming around and ended up eating at some place horrible!

Anybody know any good places that stay open late?

Thanks!

shopaholic

04-11-2007, 09:46 AM

This might be a really stupid question but I am a pool freak so I have to ask. Can you swim at hotel pools when you are not staying there?

We are now thinking of staying at Treasure Island because we love pirates but a lot of the pools at other hotels seem really nice. I know you shouldn't base your stay off a pool but just thought I would ask.

GoCougs

04-11-2007, 10:53 AM

wendalah

04-11-2007, 11:06 AM

Queen: What hotel are you staying at? Most of the hotels have a late-night diner/coffee-shop restaurant option where you can grab something decent.

Shopaholic: Have you considered staying at the Mirage? It's right next door to T.I. (connected by a tram, actually) and it has a fab pool. It is a little more expensive than T.I. though.

shopaholic

04-11-2007, 11:14 AM

Shopaholic: Have you considered staying at the Mirage? It's right next door to T.I. (connected by a tram, actually) and it has a fab pool. It is a little more expensive than T.I. though.
I am still in the beginning stages of planning and just decided on TI based on reviews, location and mainly price :) It is coming up as one of the best deal hotels on orbitz.

Their pool seems nice too and I am sure we will be busy exploring so much anyways that we wouldn't be swimming a whole lot.

Right now we are looking to go either Sept 12-16 (Wed-Sun) or Sept 10-14 (Mon-Fri). Wed-Sun is coming up about 600-ish pp and Mon-Fri is 500 pp

ETA: Something I didn't consider. Most hotels are saying check in is 3 p.m. We are due to arrive around 9 a.m. that morning and our flight home isn't until 5 pm (checkout 11 am). What are we to do with our luggage during the times we won't have the room? We weren't planning on renting a car but maybe we should?

Also, is it worth it to purchase this: VISITicket: Las Vegas Power Pass

jnshanna

04-11-2007, 01:21 PM

ETA: Something I didn't consider. Most hotels are saying check in is 3 p.m. We are due to arrive around 9 a.m. that morning and our flight home isn't until 5 pm (checkout 11 am). What are we to do with our luggage during the times we won't have the room? We weren't planning on renting a car but maybe we should?

No worries. We always arrive in Vegas early and leave as late as possible because we want as many days as possible there. ;) So when we arrive, we take the shuttle to our hotel and check our luggage with the bellhop. They give you a ticket and most hotels will deliver the luggage to your room once it's available. So you can just drop them off and be on your way to explore the strip. :) Then on the day you leave, you'll do the same. They'll give you a ticket and when you're ready to go to the airport just come and pick them up.

jimmysgirl424

04-11-2007, 01:50 PM

Queen, what hotel are you staying at? I might be able to recommend a few places based on your location, but first one that comes to mind in The Peppermill .
http://www.peppermilllasvegas.com/
Its open 24 hours and is very popular with the late night crowd.

This might be helpful for you:

http://www.tasteofvegas.com/html/late_night_dining.html

Maggie8202

04-11-2007, 02:43 PM

Right now we are looking to go either Sept 12-16 (Wed-Sun) or Sept 10-14 (Mon-Fri). Wed-Sun is coming up about 600-ish pp and Mon-Fri is 500 pp

ETA: Something I didn't consider. Most hotels are saying check in is 3 p.m. We are due to arrive around 9 a.m. that morning and our flight home isn't until 5 pm (checkout 11 am). What are we to do with our luggage during the times we won't have the room? We weren't planning on renting a car but maybe we should?

I think we are actually going to Vegas Setember 13-16 for my DH's 30th bday.

I have been pricing flights, but am waiting for a Bellagio promotion code which I will get once it gets closer. Everytime we have gone to Vegas we have arrived early 11am ish and have been able to get a room. In fact we never wait on a line and have always gotten "upgrades" for a small tip to the check in person. I have walked by the check-in at 3 and it is usually very crazy.

As for check out, we usually call the bell boy and they pick up the luggage and we do our thing, which is usually going to the pool.

I have noticed that in Vegas the staff is super accomidating, especially if you tip!!

~queen~

04-11-2007, 05:05 PM

Thanks guys!

I'm staying at the Venetian.

Also, I'm looking into a Helicopter ride to Grand Canyon. I *really* want a sunset one, and I understand that Maverick Helicopters is the best. However, DH refuses to chalk up the $498 /pp cost (can't really same I blame him, but hey its my 40th b-day! :( ) Anywhoo, anybody know of one a bit cheaper that rides at sunset?

wendalah

04-11-2007, 06:02 PM

Queen: I'd just go to the Grand Lux Cafe, then--it's right there in the Venetian and open 24 hours. It is owned by the Cheesecake Factory people and has a similar menu. I actually ate there last year in a similar situation--got in late Friday night, was hungry, didn't feel like running around looking for dinner options. You can go right into the casino when you're done :)

The Peppermill is fun, but you'll have to drive there.

wendalah

04-11-2007, 06:11 PM

Just for fun, here's a pic of me in the Peppermill last year (this was at 9 a.m.--check out all the neon!). I was having breakfast with DH; we were there for my 35th birthday.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/54/152831422_d635296a69.jpg?v=0

wendalah

04-11-2007, 06:14 PM

And this is what my husband ordered there for breakfast. (For all you who like your French Toast loaded...!)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/73/152831420_e9daf0b38d.jpg?v=0

MrsSmith

04-11-2007, 10:10 PM

Queen: I'll put in my vote for Grand Lux for late night eating. It's a good place to eat any time of day or night. Prices aren't too bad either.

We used Look Tours for our Grand Canyon tour. We didn't do the helicopter tour, so I'm not sure of the exact price, but I'm pretty sure it was less than $500/pp.

~queen~

04-12-2007, 08:55 AM

Thanks! I'd definitely give it a try! I love the Cheesecake Factory so this might be right up my alley! :)

Wendalah: Now we are talkin! How far is the Peppermill? LOL

~queen~

04-12-2007, 09:06 AM

Oh, I forgot to talk about my upcoming trip the first week of May.

Let's see. It's for my Birthday/Anniversary (both big 4's). So far I have booked "O" (last time I was there, the Bellagio was black so we got our tix refunded). Also set for "The Price is Right" which hopefully will be alot of fun.

I'm trying to get the helicopter ride on Friday evening - or go to a concert: Prince, Wayne Brady or Toni Braxton (if her show is still available) and then gamble the rest of the time to try to re-coup the cost of this trip!

My big places I'm looking to eat at are: Mesa's Grill, Top of the World at the Stratosphere (repeat of our 1st anniversary dinner including the replica of our wedding cake! Yum!) Rum Jungle and Burger Bar (you guys sold me on the Kobe Beef burger - gotta try it!!!). I think the rest of the time, we'll try to keep the cost down by keeping it simple.

shopaholic

04-12-2007, 02:57 PM

Maggie8202

04-12-2007, 03:06 PM

I feel silly for even asking this but thought I would give it a shot anyways. My bf doesn't want to pay for everything all at once. We were planning on booking through orbitz for the hotel/flights and it seems we would have to purchase via credit card (we don't like to carry balances). So, other than making payments to a credit card is there any other way to book without paying upfront all at once?

I personally don't have a prob. with it but he is on a saving streak and spending a big chunk of $ at once isn't something he is keen on.

TIA!

I usually book direct though the hotel/airline, I have found my best deals that way. I will buy my plane tickets through jetblue, and then call the hotel to book the rooms. This way all I pay is the airfare and 1 night at the hotel. You pay the rest once check out. We have found that sometimes calling the hotel/airlines will give you better prices than online.

I know that when you book a package you do pay all of it upfront, and that is one of the major cons about it. Our first trip to Vegas national airlines stopped flying the night before we left and we had to find our own airfare with another airline and had to pay this in addition to what we had already paid with the package. If we didn't do that we would have lost all the money except for $200 (in the fine print of course!) Ever since then I book on my own direct and have been happy.

Don't know if I rambled to much, but I guess what I am saying if you are booking a package there is not much you can do.

shopaholic

04-12-2007, 03:10 PM

Yes, we will be booking a package because it was fairly cheap. The trip is in September and we were planning on flying American (chepeast flights). I hope they wouldn't go out of business!

JLRenheos

04-12-2007, 03:24 PM

queen I was just in Vegas last week (27th-3rd).
I did eat at the Burger Bar! I ordered the kobe beef hamburger w/the foccacia bun. I kept it pretty simple, besides the cheese & mustard. I must say that the zucchini fries are super yummy. I ordered my husband the onion rings to go. My gf got the Buffalo Burger.
Our friends had dinner at the Top of the World @ the Stratosphere and they said it was the BEST view! I think they said the food was o.k.. They had dinner there, because you get tix. to go to the top of the tower for having dinner there. The tix. were complimentary.

One thing about Rumjungle. Rachel Ray recommended it on one of her shows, that aired last June. The food looked great!

Our friends did the Price is Right Show over @ Bally's last Sept. and they had a fun time. They didn't win anything, but it was neat they said.

I treated my husband at Sugar & Ice @ the Wynn. I bought him a sundae & I got homemade Lemon Tart icecream. It was soo good!

The 4 of us did eat at Battista's. My main meal was o.k.. I've had better pasta. The chix. had a great taste though. Everything else was fine! The good thing about Battista's, is that you get all-you-can-drink-wine Red and/or White wine. They come in carafes.

I can't believe how much I loved eating at Bellagio's Buffet. The food was incredible & we were stuffed when we left, but we weren't sick like we have been in the past. We had intentions to go for breakfast, but we got cut off about 10 min. before 11 a.m.. We went for brunch instead and we only had to pay for the Breakfast price, which we were happy about.

shopaholic

04-12-2007, 03:32 PM

Our friends did the Price is Right Show over @ Bally's last Sept. and they had a fun time. They didn't win anything, but it was neat they said.
I wanted to do that too but saw you play by touch screen pads. It didn't really sound fun after that but now that you posted I might have to reconsider.

beachlvr

04-12-2007, 06:51 PM

Dumb question, but I know you all are fashionistas! My friend and I are going for a girls weekend away. What should we wear so we don't look like the frumpy housewives we are? We're staying at TI, and plan on shopping one day and maybe doing nice dinner and a show on Saturday evening. How glam or dressed down should we be?

ca_girl

04-12-2007, 07:15 PM

What weekend? It totally depends on when you are going. The past week, it's been super windy, but closer to May, it gets warmer, so it's anything from jeans/nice balck pants, to skirts! In Vegas, most anything goes.

For shows, I usually do black pants & a nice/cute top with black boots, or black heels (depending on the weather).

mommy2allyandaveri

04-13-2007, 09:44 PM

mommy2allyandaveri

04-13-2007, 09:47 PM

In fact we never wait on a line and have always gotten "upgrades" for a small tip to the check in person.

I have noticed that in Vegas the staff is super accomidating, especially if you tip!!

How do you go about doing this? I always think of that scene in Vegas Vacation when Chevy Chase hands the guy a handful of quarters and he looks at him like "are you kidding me". I just don't want the guy at the front desk to think I'm nuts.

Maggie8202

04-14-2007, 08:07 AM

How do you go about doing this? I always think of that scene in Vegas Vacation when Chevy Chase hands the guy a handful of quarters and he looks at him like "are you kidding me". I just don't want the guy at the front desk to think I'm nuts.

When we are checking in for our rooms on the computer, my dh asks if "this" and takes out a 50 dollar bill could help in finding a nicer room. It has worked to get us the bigger corner suits at The Hotel at Mandalay all three times we have been there. When I looked online to price the corner suits they were a good amount of money additional per night. I think it also may have to do with availability as well.

snowzilla

04-14-2007, 08:20 AM

I happened to call Treasure Island today to ask about early check in and they said they would let us check in at 11am. Hope this helps.

Many of the hotels will let you check your luggage, even if they don't have early check-in. They'll simply lock it up for you, so you can head out and enjoy your time until your room is ready. :)

We've done this a few times, in Vegas and in other cities - on arrival days, and on departure days (when we're not leaving until later in the evening, but we check out at 11am).

Taurus

04-14-2007, 10:23 AM

Taurus - We just stayed at the Signature in January. Fabulous!!! It was a bit of a walk, but it was also a nice way to unwind from the casino action after a long day. I've been to the MGM Grand spa before - the treatments are great, but the men and women are separate the whole time - just something to think about if you like to lounge in a hot tub together before or after treatments. I wouldn't think the MGM pool is too far of a walk - it's the first thing you come to when you enter the MGM.

I'm going back a few pages here, but loud_curly or anyone else, do you know if there are at least co-ed relaxation areas at the MGM Spa where we could sit and read together before or after treatments? We can't do a lot of the typical things anyway (I'm pregnant), but would at least like this option.

Also, and perhaps I should post this elsewhere, but does anyone know if the "20% service charge" that the MGM Spa says they add to their fees is considered the gratuity or do we have to tip on top of that? I've never been to a spa in Vegas, but all other spas I've been to are more clear in using the word "gratuity" to explain what they add in automatically.

mommy2allyandaveri

04-14-2007, 09:02 PM

Anyone know if there is a good fondue place in Vegas?

Jill1228

04-15-2007, 01:52 PM

DH and I are looking to go to Vegas again. We are looking at Mandalay Bay. probably THEhotel at Mandalay Bay

Has anyone stayed at either one of these? Reviews please (we plan on booking soon)

Maggie8202

04-15-2007, 03:28 PM

We have stayed at The Hotel 3 times. We love it! The suits are beautiful and are a great size for your money. It is away from Mandalay, so you do feel a little more secluded and their are less families. One of my favorite features is watching the shark tank live on one of the THREE plasma TV's. There is a plama in the bathroom, living room and bedroom. I also happen to love the style and decor. Always been very clean. I think the only drawback is the pool is a good walk because you share the pool with Mandalay. The service is also very good, except I feel like Bellagio is a little bit better. Do you have any specific questions?

Jill1228

04-15-2007, 03:47 PM

you pretty much hit on everything, thanks! i just wanted opinions on the hotel

We have stayed at
Rio
Imperial Palace
Venetian
New York New York
Luxor (3 times)
Orleans (3 times)

pocahontas

04-15-2007, 06:16 PM

Oh, I forgot to talk about my upcoming trip the first week of May.

Let's see. It's for my Birthday/Anniversary (both big 4's).
I'm trying to get the helicopter ride on Friday evening - or go to a concert: Prince, Wayne Brady or Toni Braxton (if her show is still available) and then gamble the rest of the time to try to re-coup the cost of this trip!

QUEEN...when DH and I went on our "pre"-honeymoon (8 months before our wedding) to Vegas we desperately wanted to do the helicopter tour too! Bus and car just weren't gonna cut it (although they were cheaper). However, with a wedding bill looming a few months in the future it was not in the budget to take a $400+ dollar/pp tour (although I think DH found one for only $350 when we were there). We vowed when we went back though we were definitely gonna have the money for it and we are doing a contest for our business team where 2 winners and their spouses/SOs go to Vegas in December with us (my idea...any excuse to go back :D). So let me know if you end up doing it and what company you go through. (BTW...is Prince performing in VEGAS?! :eek: Or is that only in May? I would sooooo buy tickets ASAP if is!)

*Sidenote...I see we have something else in common besides getting married in Bmore, we are both Taurus May babies. ;) Which day is your birthday? It would be funny if we're born the same day. :p *

Can anyone confirm this...I heard they tore down the Stardust. Is that true? :confused: Also, for those of you doing or who have done "The Price Is Right" how does one go about signing up from the show and at what time of day is it done? Afternoon? Night?

Jill1228

04-15-2007, 07:07 PM

Yes ma'am! They closed the hotel in November and imploded it about a month or so ago

Can anyone confirm this...I heard they tore down the Stardust. Is that true? :confused:

mommy2allyandaveri

04-16-2007, 10:14 AM

Anyone know if there is a good fondue place in Vegas?

Anybody??? How about a good mexican food place?

wendalah

04-16-2007, 11:23 AM

I don't know about fondue. For Mexican, I have eaten at the following and found them all satisfactory:

The Mexican place at the Rio (sorry can't remember name)--regular Mexican food, nothing special, pretty good.

The Mexican place at the Palms (sorry can't remember name)--ditto as above.

Diego at the MGM Grand--a little more upscale Mexican; very good, excellent margaritas.

Border Grill at Mandalay--Well, I'm cheating here, because I've only eaten at the Santa Monica Border Grill. But I like the SM one a lot. Again, a little more upscale Mexican--you can get some interesting dishes.

There is also an upscale Mexican place at Treasure Island, which I haven't eaten at but looked nice when I was there. They have some sort of uber-stocked tequila bar.

shopaholic

04-16-2007, 12:51 PM

just to let everyone know. tripadvisor.com has candid pics/videos from guests. Pretty neat feature if you want to see how the rooms really look!

Sha259

04-16-2007, 01:04 PM

DH and I are leaving in 6 days for our first trip to Vegas. I am super excited, but feel that I haven't planned enough. I haven't booked any shows at all. :eek: I feel like it was a mistake, because I really wanted to see a Cirque show, but then I think of how much money it would have been and I don't feel too bad.

But on the show note, have any of you gotten good show tickets at the Half-Price ticket booth?? I am thinking to pay no more than $50 pp for a show.

This thread has been a fount of information. DH and I will be arriving late and leaving late from the city, so it is good to know that the hotel is willing to hold on to our luggage, even after we check out.

Anyway, I have a nice list of the free/cheap things to see and do in Vegas and I am soo ready to go!!!:D

mommy2allyandaveri

04-16-2007, 01:08 PM

Our in-laws just got back from Vegas. They bought tickets at the half price thing for La Rev. They only had the most expensive seats left available and they bought them for like $80, which is still cheaper than purchasing the crappiest seats in advance. Sounds like a deal, especially if there isn't a show you have your heart set on seeing.

I am so excited for our trip this summer all I want to do is plan and research. Anyone know any good web-sites or message boards for this? I've already been to:

about.com
vegas.com
lasvegas.com

Any others out there???

snowzilla

04-16-2007, 01:19 PM

Can anyone confirm this...I heard they tore down the Stardust. Is that true? :confused:

You betcha. I took these in early February, when we were there for the weekend - the hotel was gutted, and they were prepping it for implosion. They did that last month, and the video was on MSN - it was pretty freaking cool!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/461858690_6421ce0707.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/189/461858694_077f94d987.jpg?v=0

jimmysgirl424

04-16-2007, 01:28 PM

Anybody??? How about a good mexican food place?

DH and I both really like Gonzalez & Gonzalez at the NY NY. There is also a good Mexican place at The Frontier...can't remember the name off-hand. Oh, and off-strip at Sam's Town they have a great, great Mexican place called Willy & Jose's. When I lived in Vegas, it was my favorite place to eat!

jimmysgirl424

04-16-2007, 01:40 PM

I am so excited for our trip this summer all I want to do is plan and research. Anyone know any good web-sites or message boards for this? I've already been to:

about.com
vegas.com
lasvegas.com

Any others out there???

www.cheapovegas.com

www.visitlasvegas.com

www.goingtovegas.com

pocahontas

04-16-2007, 01:40 PM

You betcha. I took these in early February, when we were there for the weekend - the hotel was gutted, and they were prepping it for implosion. They did that last month, and the video was on MSN - it was pretty freaking cool!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/461858690_6421ce0707.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/189/461858694_077f94d987.jpg?v=0
OHMYGAWD! :eek: And to think...DH and I actually stayed there when were were just an engaged couple. (Not that it was the greatest since the rooms were in need of an interior designer for sure!) Unbelieveable. We have pictures under that same "STARDUST" sign! Wait 'til I show DH! 'ZILLA, do you happen to know what they're planning to build there? After reading this thread I am so spastic I sat and made our whole itinerary for our trip...which ain't even 'til December. Anal...I know. :D Anyone know if they have already torn down the Aladdin...to make way for the Planet Hollywood Hotel I read is going up? I soooo loved the Aladdin. *sigh* :(

P.S. Anyone know the answer to my "Price is Right" question? (previous page)

DelSol

04-16-2007, 01:44 PM

snowzilla ~ good pictures, we were out in December and I didn't even think to take pictures of the Stardust. We actually got a good prime rib dinner there a few years back.

jimmysgirl424

04-16-2007, 01:46 PM

I feel silly for even asking this but thought I would give it a shot anyways. My bf doesn't want to pay for everything all at once. We were planning on booking through orbitz for the hotel/flights and it seems we would have to purchase via credit card (we don't like to carry balances). So, other than making payments to a credit card is there any other way to book without paying upfront all at once?

I personally don't have a prob. with it but he is on a saving streak and spending a big chunk of $ at once isn't something he is keen on.

TIA!

I had this same issue when booking our first Vegas trip. I ended up finding the deal of a lifetime through America West vacations online. (now its actually US Airways vacations: http://www.usairwaysvacations.com/) But we couldn't afford to pay for the whole package up front. So I called the airline's package deals phone number directly. They told me that although their prices can vary a little booking over the phone vs online, they were still able to get the same package deal for about $10 more than the listed online price AND they let me make payments! Try finding a package that you like and then calling the number listed instead of booking online. Many times you will find that they are so eager for your business that they willingly accomodate you and find a way to make it work. BTW..I got DH and I 10 nights in Vegas and round-trip airfare for about $600 total. Now thats a deal! :D

DelSol

04-16-2007, 01:49 PM

Poca ~ Price is Right - Bally's Las Vegas (http://www.harrahs.com/EventsDetail.do?locationCode=BLV&detailName=the-price-is-right-live-detail&eventTitle=The%20Price%20Is%20Right%20Live!) Show time is 2:30PM, you can make reservations online!

Didn't know they were imploding Aladdin also.

jimmysgirl424

04-16-2007, 01:54 PM

[/color]

When we were there last year, we were told that they are not tearing it down, just re-naming it Planet Hollywood and re-furbishing some stuff. I guess those plans could have changed by now but we didn't hear a whisper that they were imploding it. They just built that place from the ground up within the last ten years, so I can't imagine it was rundown or outdated enough to warrant an implosion and re-build.

ETA: Found this article about it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planet_Hollywood_Resort_and_Casino

pocahontas

04-16-2007, 02:06 PM

Oh that makes sense, Jimmysgirl, it is a lot newer than the Stardust. I hope they don't do away with too much stuff! Besides the Venetian...Aladdin was my favorite hotel!

THANKS DEL SOL!

jnshanna

04-16-2007, 02:07 PM

When we were there last year, we were told that they are not tearing it down, just re-naming it Planet Hollywood and re-furbishing some stuff. I guess those plans could have changed by now but we didn't hear a whisper that they were imploding it. They just built that place from the ground up within the last ten years, so I can't imagine it was rundown or outdated enough to warrant an implosion and re-build.

ETA: Found this article about it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Planet_Hollywood_Resort_and_Casino

Yeah, they aren't tearing it down. We're staying there starting on 4/30 so we've researched. That's our favorite hotel! :) If you want to stay in December it should definitely be finished by then. From what I've read they are still finishing the rooms. Some are completely remodeled and others aren't. And they're still working on the outside a lot. I'm not clear on how the inside is doing though. I guess I'll know in a couple weeks. :)

Loud_curly

04-16-2007, 03:43 PM

Poca - We went to the Price is Right show in January - HUGE ripoff!!! The prizes are terrible, and there are tons of people to choose from. I mean, it was fun, but we felt like we would have enjoyed having that money to gamble!

mommy2allyandaveri

04-16-2007, 04:39 PM

www.cheapovegas.com

www.visitlasvegas.com

www.goingtovegas.com

Thank you so much;)

For those of you who are obsessed with food like I am, I found this link very helpful.

http://govegas.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=govegas&cdn=travel&tm=275&gps=141_511_1020_623&f=00&su=p656.1.140.ip_p531.28.152.ip_p532.6.150.ip_p284 .7.420.ip_p284.5.420.ip_p531.26.420.ip_&tt=2&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.ratelasvegas.com/hotelrest/ratings/r478.html

mommy2allyandaveri

04-16-2007, 04:43 PM

Yeah, they aren't tearing it down. We're staying there starting on 4/30 so we've researched. That's our favorite hotel! :) If you want to stay in December it should definitely be finished by then. From what I've read they are still finishing the rooms. Some are completely remodeled and others aren't. And they're still working on the outside a lot. I'm not clear on how the inside is doing though. I guess I'll know in a couple weeks. :)

We're staying at the Aladdin/Planet Hollywood in August---so excited!!!

Thanks for the tips on Mexican rest. too. Yummy!

pocahontas

04-17-2007, 10:52 AM

Loud_curly

04-17-2007, 11:13 AM

Money? What?! You have to pay to be on it!? :eek:

You have to buy tickets to attend the show - I think they're about $26 each (less with a discount if you have a Bally's/Harrah's card). Then you might be lucky enough to win a cheap fridge, or a T-shirt. The worst part for us is that we didn't even get to see Todd Newton host - we saw somebody I had never seen before!!!

julesp313

04-17-2007, 03:57 PM

For the poster looking for a great fondue restaurant, I highly recommend The Melting Pot - there's one in Summerlin (8704 W. Charleston) and one in Green Valley (8955 S. Eastern). My firm had their annual summer party there last year and we had a blast - the dessert fondue was fabulous, with three types of chocolate fondue and too many things to dip in it. I think most people do the three course fondue - cheese, meat, poultry and fish, and chocolate.

ETA link: http://www.meltingpot.com/greenvalley/menu.html

Also, a funny with the Aladdin makeover - our local paper, the Review-Journal, had a great shot of the new sign going up, letter by letter - it said "Planet Ho". Gotta love this town. :)

JLRenheos

04-17-2007, 04:03 PM

We stayed across the street @ the Jockey Club(timeshare) 2 weeks ago and they Planet Hollywood (formerly Aladdin) just had the words PLAN at the time. I love the shopping there. Now, they're calling in the Miracle Mile shops. They have a huge screen out there w/neat graphics on it. I watched it from the view we had from our room.

mommy2allyandaveri

04-17-2007, 08:46 PM

For the poster looking for a great fondue restaurant, I highly recommend The Melting Pot - there's one in Summerlin (8704 W. Charleston) and one in Green Valley (8955 S. Eastern). My firm had their annual summer party there last year and we had a blast - the dessert fondue was fabulous, with three types of chocolate fondue and too many things to dip in it. I think most people do the three course fondue - cheese, meat, poultry and fish, and chocolate.

ETA link: http://www.meltingpot.com/greenvalley/menu.html

Thanks for the tip. I was hoping to find somewhere on the strip. We won't have a car and really only wanted to find a fondue place for dessert (my husband really isn't into fondue). I would hate to spend more on a taxi than we would for an actual dessert.

wendalah

04-18-2007, 11:31 AM

Some of the buffets have chocolate fountains--I can't say which ones off the top of my head, but I've seen them.

BTW taxis are pretty cheap in Vegas if you do want to explore.

Jill1228

04-19-2007, 02:08 AM

We always rent a car in Vegas. It is pretty bad, I can't give you directions in my town but I can give you directions to almost anywhere in Vegas

snowzilla

04-19-2007, 06:34 AM

On our last trip down in February, we rented a car for the last day only, did some outlet shopping and some off-Strip sightseeing (including the Hoover Dam), and then just dropped the car off at the airport on our way home. It was definitely worth it. We didn't have to worry about parking costs on the days we weren't driving, and having the freedom to get off the Strip and see other things was great.

DelSol

04-19-2007, 07:56 AM

We always rent a car in Vegas. It is pretty bad, I can't give you directions in my town but I can give you directions to almost anywhere in Vegas

LOL, it's also bad when you know what back roads to take to avoid Las Vegas Blvd and which ones will take you to the other casinos, like The Palms and Rio. :o

Just an FYI on Parking: It's free at all casinos and I believe valet parking is free also, just need to give them a tip, at least at all the casinos I've been in on the strip. We always get a rental car, we like the freedom to be able to go anywhere at anytime and have never paid for parking.

ca_girl

04-23-2007, 06:50 PM

Yeah, they aren't tearing it down. We're staying there starting on 4/30 so we've researched. That's our favorite hotel! :) If you want to stay in December it should definitely be finished by then. From what I've read they are still finishing the rooms. Some are completely remodeled and others aren't. And they're still working on the outside a lot. I'm not clear on how the inside is doing though. I guess I'll know in a couple weeks. :)

Thank God! I leave Friday & have to go to my sunglass place there. I love drinking & shopping at Aladdin!

Lanapoo

04-24-2007, 03:38 PM

Re: the Aladdin/Planet Hollywood. We were just in Vegas from 4/9 - 4/13, the sign said Planet Holly at the time :p . They were just getting started on some of the tile work at the entrance to the Miracle Mile (formerly Underground Passage) but pretty much no interior work had been done. So the miracle mile is still the Aladdin style while the outside of the building is looking more modern and Planet Hollywoodish.

Shows - We saw Spamalot and it was great! John O'Hurley was really good.

We liked gambling at Bill's (formerly Barbary Coast) because they had more five dollar tables than anywhere else and DH and I are cheap :p

JLRenheos

04-24-2007, 05:39 PM

We liked gambling at Bill's (formerly Barbary Coast) because they had more five dollar tables than anywhere else and DH and I are cheap :p[/QUOTE]

We were there about 4 wks. ago & we also liked gambling at Buffalo Bills for the very same reasons. We also liked Casino Royale. The table minimums are cheaper there.

KMarie

05-01-2007, 09:03 PM

We're going to Vegas over Memorial Day weekend. Has anyone eaten at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris Hotel? What did you think?

gayle

05-01-2007, 09:49 PM

We're going to Vegas over Memorial Day weekend. Has anyone eaten at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris Hotel? What did you think?

I always make it a point to go there for a meal when I am in Vegas. The food is excellent, the prices aren't too bad in comparison to the quality, and if you dine on their outside patio, you have a perfect view of the Bellagio fountains.

KMarie

05-02-2007, 09:53 AM

Thanks Gayle. I looked at the menu online and thought it looked yummy, and I've always noticed the outside seating when I've been to Vegas in the past. I think we might give it a try!

JLRenheos

05-02-2007, 05:45 PM

KMarie I've heard that they have great steak there! Have fun on vacation!

jnshanna

05-03-2007, 08:49 PM

Just back from Vegas and I have a couple tips for anyone staying at Planet Hollywood. There is a North and South tour. If you can, get a room on the North side. That is the side the Bellagio fountain is on. We got a room in the South tower and our view was of a huge construction project across the street. Also, don't get a room in the South tower that ends in the number 17. All of those rooms are right next to the service elevator and it's SO loud. This was our room the first night and I couldn't sleep so we changed to another room. Luckily in the North tower with a view of the fountain. :)

We had such a good time. We loved the casino at PH. It's TOTALLY different than the old Aladdin but in a good way we think. We had the buffet at PH and it was the best we've ever had. Everyone in our group LOVED it. Thumbs up!

bellaprincess

05-03-2007, 10:10 PM

I was in Las Vegas last week and I also ate at the Spice Market Buffet in the Planet Hollywood hotel for lunch and it was outstanding. It beat the Mandalay Bay buffet ( which I loved) out of the water. The Middle Eastern section was the best and their lamb stuffed tomatoes ( dolmeh ?), saffron rice with almonds and raisins, baklava, and chicken tandoori were to die for.

I also forgot to mention we ate dinner one night at Canonita Mexican Restaurant at the Venetian Hotel and it was delicious.

Here is the link both restaurants:

http://www.canonita.net/home.html
http://www.aladdincasino.com/casualSub.php

WestieMomma

05-06-2007, 12:19 AM

We're going to Vegas over Memorial Day weekend. Has anyone eaten at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris Hotel? What did you think?

I love that place! Definitely get a table on the patio...great atmosphere and prime people watching! I liked the French onion soup and steak w/pommes frites-yum!!

~queen~

05-10-2007, 11:56 AM

Recently back from my trip to Las Vegas with my reviews.

Hotel:
We stayed at the Venetian and got upgraded to the Venezia Towers with a view of the strip (directly overlooking Treasure Island). Amazing, amazing, amazing! The shower had a rain shower head with body sprays. We literally took 3 showers a day! The only downside to that fabulous room was the walk to get there. It was a crazy long walk, with 2 seperate elevators just to get there! A+

Food:
Burger Bar in Mandalay Bay. Had to do it - just HAD to try the Kobe Beef burger. It was just 'eh'. For $16, I wasn't sure what to expect. DH's french fries weren't piping hot when he got his food. A minor complaint led to a whole new batch that he was very happy with. B-

Aquanox in the Venetian. Very, very good seafood. Fresh, cooked perfectly and on beautiful blue plates! The serving staff was not reliable at all, but my John Dory was excellent. A-

Mesa's Grill at Caesar's Palace. Forgettable food. It took me a while to even remember what I had (Mahi-Mahi) and it wasn't anything special. DH had the Chipotle Steak, and while it was pretty good, he said it wasn't nearly as good as a steak at Ruth Chris. C+

Entertainment:
Cirque Du Soliel O - A+ 'nuff said.

Boys 2 Men. Yes, they are still around - and selling their latest CD via their website!? Umm - okay. They still have their voices and sounded really good. B (mainly because the tix were $29 and they didn't have a live band, they sang over taped music)

Price is Right. This was suprisingly alot of fun! I kept apologizing to DH beforehand because I kept getting mixed reviews about it. And the prizes were actually pretty darn good! Pool table, refrigerator (stainless steel), PSP, Scooter, $2500 cash, silverware, and a 4-day Royal Carribean cruise. Not bad at all. We didn't win a single thing, but it was still a good time.

That's it!

LeslieandPaul

05-16-2007, 02:43 PM

We go to Vegas in 3 weeks on Friday. We're staying at the Flamingo and I am super excited!
I don't know if this has been asked before, but do we need reservations ahead of time for any restaurants, or should we make them when we arrive, or can you usually just walk in?

bethnjim

05-20-2007, 07:38 AM

My husband's family is considering Las Vegas as their vacation spot this year. Any hotel recommendations?? We want to be on the strip, have a NICE BIG POOL at the hotel, nice entertainment and dining options.

We are considering, Treasure Island, Planet Hollywood, MGM, Paris and Bellagio, but would LOVE LOVE LOVE recommendations. None of us have ever been!!!

Taurus

05-20-2007, 08:31 PM

I am by NO means a Vegas buff or expert but will try to answer the last two questions.

Leslie-Many of the restaurants in the Strip hotels are reservations only or reservations recommended. When you need to make them (now or when you arrive) probably depends on the restaurant, the days you will be there, and your flexibility in dining times. You can call your hotel's concierge ahead of time for help or the individual restaurants you are interested in to inquire. Having said that, there are also nice "casual" restaurants in the Strip hotels (still $15-$20/entree) that only take walk-ins. The waits here can be anywhere from seated right away to waiting an hour.

Beth-If you want your ideal pool, entertainment and dining all in the same hotel, then you should see what entertainment is being offered at each hotel when you will be there, and then go from there. However, it is more typical to walk, get a cab, or take the monorail to get from Strip hotel to Strip hotel (and you'll probably want to see inside the different big hotels if this is your first time anyway), so you don't have to have all your entertainment and restaurants in one place. The hotels you are looking at are all in a great spot of the Strip (though TI is a bit more of a walk from the others). I was in LV this week and PH has a lot of construction going on, especially in the back (but I was not inside). I stayed at the Signature at th