This is an awesome shout out from the queen of frugal Vegas, Jean Scott, for our mutual friend, Dewey.
Dewey
She may be the queen of all things frugal in Vegas, but Dewey is truly the king! Be sure to check out his blogs via the link above, or bookmark them from my own bookmark on the right-hand side of the page.
Way to go, Dewey!
Showing posts with label websites and blogs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label websites and blogs. Show all posts
Monday, August 24, 2015
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Link to article: 10 Hidden Gems of Las Vegas
Another great list of things to do or see, off the beaten path, if you want something different to do in Las Vegas. This article is on the HotelClub blog:
Hidden Gems
I've always wanted to find the "secret pizza", but haven't done it yet.
I HAVE seen the tusk at TI, which is beautiful. TI also has several other beautiful artifacts on display with the tusk.
Great ideas if you're tired of the same old Vegas. I'm not.
;)
Hidden Gems
I've always wanted to find the "secret pizza", but haven't done it yet.
I HAVE seen the tusk at TI, which is beautiful. TI also has several other beautiful artifacts on display with the tusk.
Great ideas if you're tired of the same old Vegas. I'm not.
;)
Link to article: 5 Best Buffets in Las Vegas
I've only tried three of the five on this list, so I don't know if I totally agree or not, but here's the list from Travel + Leisure.com:
Best Las Vegas Buffets
My experience with Wicked Spoon at Cosmopolitan was just "meh" - it had some good points, but not everything was hot. We went for breakfast, which is my favorite meal, and we were there at 9:00 a.m., so it's not like stuff had been sitting out all morning.
The Buffet @ Wynn was my favorite for quite a while. I've gone probably 6 or 7 times for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I just haven't gone back because there are so many others to try now! The Jazz Brunch at the Country Club at Wynn is there to compete with it now, but it is only on Sundays and it is a bit pricier.
Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is definitely the top on my list (and my mom's, for sure!) right now. I've been for breakfast and lunch - or a spillover from breakfast TO lunch - on several occasions now, and I really enjoy it. The key is to take your time, eat slowly, and sit back and talk with your table mates or just people-watch if you're alone. No need to rush.
I've never been to M Resort and probably won't. I'm a Strip Girl. That's where I stay, that's where I play, and that's where I eat. So I can't say a thing about this one.
Aria's buffet is on my to do list. I think it could be a worthy contender. The only problem is getting to it; everything is such a LONG walk because the hotel is so far back from the Strip, then THROUGH the casino, etc. But good for a solo trip, perhaps.
My favorite "regular priced" buffet is at Harrah's. They have a good selection and are not too expensive. All of the top 5 buffets on this list top $30 for breakfast and $50 for dinner. Harrah's will get you in for $20 for breakfast and $30 for dinner, and you get an extra $1-$2 off for being a Total Rewards member (take your card with you to get your discount).
Keep eating Vegas!
Best Las Vegas Buffets
My experience with Wicked Spoon at Cosmopolitan was just "meh" - it had some good points, but not everything was hot. We went for breakfast, which is my favorite meal, and we were there at 9:00 a.m., so it's not like stuff had been sitting out all morning.
The Buffet @ Wynn was my favorite for quite a while. I've gone probably 6 or 7 times for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I just haven't gone back because there are so many others to try now! The Jazz Brunch at the Country Club at Wynn is there to compete with it now, but it is only on Sundays and it is a bit pricier.
Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace is definitely the top on my list (and my mom's, for sure!) right now. I've been for breakfast and lunch - or a spillover from breakfast TO lunch - on several occasions now, and I really enjoy it. The key is to take your time, eat slowly, and sit back and talk with your table mates or just people-watch if you're alone. No need to rush.
I've never been to M Resort and probably won't. I'm a Strip Girl. That's where I stay, that's where I play, and that's where I eat. So I can't say a thing about this one.
Aria's buffet is on my to do list. I think it could be a worthy contender. The only problem is getting to it; everything is such a LONG walk because the hotel is so far back from the Strip, then THROUGH the casino, etc. But good for a solo trip, perhaps.
My favorite "regular priced" buffet is at Harrah's. They have a good selection and are not too expensive. All of the top 5 buffets on this list top $30 for breakfast and $50 for dinner. Harrah's will get you in for $20 for breakfast and $30 for dinner, and you get an extra $1-$2 off for being a Total Rewards member (take your card with you to get your discount).
Keep eating Vegas!
Monday, February 23, 2015
Link to article: 50 Places To Eat Brunch in Las Vegas
Here's a link to a fantastic article with some great places for brunch, which happens to be my favorite-est meal of the day, especially a day in Vegas!
vegas.eater.com
I have already added a few of these places to my "to do" list, including Border Grill at the Forum Shops, Payards, and Bouchon. I've already tried the Jazz brunch at Wynn and Jasmine brunch at Bellagio, which are both excellent, and I will enjoy them both again sometime, after I try a few others.
A couple that were already on my list (and will stay there until I try them): the Gospel Brunch at Hard Rock and the Sterling Brunch at BLT in Bally's.
To check out all the restaurants on the list, scroll down the left-hand side of the page through the link, then click on whichever one you'd like to see more about. There are menus and website there, and as you go down the list you will see them highlighted on the map to the right. That way you know exactly where you are going!
vegas.eater.com
I have already added a few of these places to my "to do" list, including Border Grill at the Forum Shops, Payards, and Bouchon. I've already tried the Jazz brunch at Wynn and Jasmine brunch at Bellagio, which are both excellent, and I will enjoy them both again sometime, after I try a few others.
A couple that were already on my list (and will stay there until I try them): the Gospel Brunch at Hard Rock and the Sterling Brunch at BLT in Bally's.
To check out all the restaurants on the list, scroll down the left-hand side of the page through the link, then click on whichever one you'd like to see more about. There are menus and website there, and as you go down the list you will see them highlighted on the map to the right. That way you know exactly where you are going!
Friday, January 10, 2014
Link to article: Bally's begins demolition on to make way for new shopping area on the Strip
I didn't even know they were thinking about this.
A recent article on LostVegas.com talks about the soon-to-come changes to the front of Bally's on the Las Vegas Strip.
Demolition info
I've only known Bally's as BALLY'S. It was the original MGM hotel, where the famous hotel fire took place on November 21, 1980 (link to YouTube video HERE, and photos HERE).
I've not been a fan of the casino because I just don't care for the layout of the place, and it's very easy to get turned around in, but maybe the shopping space will make me want to visit.
I've seen many changes in Las Vegas since I started going in 1997, and I haven't always liked them to begin with, like TITO tickets vs. coins in machines, or changing Imperial Palace to The Quad, but I end up liking most things when they're done. So, we'll see.
A recent article on LostVegas.com talks about the soon-to-come changes to the front of Bally's on the Las Vegas Strip.
Demolition info
I've only known Bally's as BALLY'S. It was the original MGM hotel, where the famous hotel fire took place on November 21, 1980 (link to YouTube video HERE, and photos HERE).
I've not been a fan of the casino because I just don't care for the layout of the place, and it's very easy to get turned around in, but maybe the shopping space will make me want to visit.
I've seen many changes in Las Vegas since I started going in 1997, and I haven't always liked them to begin with, like TITO tickets vs. coins in machines, or changing Imperial Palace to The Quad, but I end up liking most things when they're done. So, we'll see.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Link to article: Top 10 Adrenaline and Thrilling Things to Do in Las Vegas
This was posted over on LV4E (LasVegas4Ever), and I thought I might share it here. It was originally posted on toptenpk.com:
Eeeek!
Out of the entire list, I would only be willing to do the last 5, but I'm especially drawn to # 9 (Exotic Cars) because I LOVE to drive fast, and # 10 (Colorado River Rafting at the Grand Canyon) because I've always wanted to do that...and take pictures, of course.
Unless I'm on a roller coaster, I usually associate adrenaline with REAL FEAR, and I have no interest in being physically frightened while "enjoying" something.
Eeeek!
Out of the entire list, I would only be willing to do the last 5, but I'm especially drawn to # 9 (Exotic Cars) because I LOVE to drive fast, and # 10 (Colorado River Rafting at the Grand Canyon) because I've always wanted to do that...and take pictures, of course.
Unless I'm on a roller coaster, I usually associate adrenaline with REAL FEAR, and I have no interest in being physically frightened while "enjoying" something.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
How To Celebrate Halloween In Vegas (Link to Article)
I didn't plan a trip to Vegas during Halloween this year, but I was there last year for the celebrations and it was...interesting. I wish I'd taken more photos of some of the costumes, like the very creative girl dressed as the Three Blind Mice - all three of them. Very clever!
Still, unless you're in Vegas right now (which several of my friends are), you are probably finding ways to have fun at home. If you're not in Vegas this year, you could be there next year. So here are some great ideas for how to have some Halloween fun in Vegas, compliments of Forbes.com:
Trick or Treat!
Still, unless you're in Vegas right now (which several of my friends are), you are probably finding ways to have fun at home. If you're not in Vegas this year, you could be there next year. So here are some great ideas for how to have some Halloween fun in Vegas, compliments of Forbes.com:
Trick or Treat!
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Traditional Indian Wedding in Vegas - October 19, 2013
A traditional Indian wedding in front of the Bellagio hotel. I couldn't imagine what that would look like - before.
My friend, Claire, texted me while this was going on. She saw a simple post on Facebook, and I was actually across the Strip, in my room at the Flamingo, getting ready for the evening. I wish I'd gone over to see some of this!
Here's a link to the Facebook photo album for the wedding - gorgeous photos, and I can't even begin to imagine the cost:
Namaste
My friend, Claire, texted me while this was going on. She saw a simple post on Facebook, and I was actually across the Strip, in my room at the Flamingo, getting ready for the evening. I wish I'd gone over to see some of this!
Here's a link to the Facebook photo album for the wedding - gorgeous photos, and I can't even begin to imagine the cost:
Namaste
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Happy, Happy, Happy Hours in Vegas!
I drink a LOT more in Vegas than I do at home.
Could be the change in scenery, the fact that people are bringing me free drinks every time I turn around, or the fact that it's just Vegas, baby.
Here's are a few links to some of the Happy Hour specials you can find the next time you're in Las Vegas - and it's not just for the drinks, either:
Eater.com - Updated Ultimate Guide to Happy Hours - Sept. 2013 - Happy hour specials at 115 bars and restaurants around Las Vegas
Cosmopolitan specials - several of Cosmo's restaurants offer some good deals
LasVegasHappyHour.net - the go-to source for the latest and greatest of the Las Vegas Happy Hours
Bottoms up! Have a good time and celebrate safely!
Could be the change in scenery, the fact that people are bringing me free drinks every time I turn around, or the fact that it's just Vegas, baby.
Here's are a few links to some of the Happy Hour specials you can find the next time you're in Las Vegas - and it's not just for the drinks, either:
Eater.com - Updated Ultimate Guide to Happy Hours - Sept. 2013 - Happy hour specials at 115 bars and restaurants around Las Vegas
Cosmopolitan specials - several of Cosmo's restaurants offer some good deals
LasVegasHappyHour.net - the go-to source for the latest and greatest of the Las Vegas Happy Hours
Bottoms up! Have a good time and celebrate safely!
Sunday, August 11, 2013
The High Roller Wheel Showing Signs of Progress
The construction of the High Roller wheel behind The Quad is finally starting to look like a giant wheel! Here's a link to the latest photos:
Got rims?
Still, it's a giant ferris wheel, and I'm not crazy about it even if it IS in Las Vegas, so I'll just take photos from the ground, thanks very much.
But I'm glad to see some progress to the construction in this area! It seems like the Boardwalk theme can't come together fast enough for me. Looking forward to seeing some new shops, trying some new restaurants, and enjoying the outdoors in Vegas. Hurry, Vegas!
Got rims?
Still, it's a giant ferris wheel, and I'm not crazy about it even if it IS in Las Vegas, so I'll just take photos from the ground, thanks very much.
But I'm glad to see some progress to the construction in this area! It seems like the Boardwalk theme can't come together fast enough for me. Looking forward to seeing some new shops, trying some new restaurants, and enjoying the outdoors in Vegas. Hurry, Vegas!
Traveling - and Airplane Etiquette - Revisited
Once upon a time, about 2 1/2 years ago, I posted a list of airplane etiquette items on this blog for consideration - here's the original post: Be nice!
Webmistress Bonnie at LasVegas4Ever found an article titled "13 Things That Make You Public Enemy #1 On A Plane". Here's a link to that article: 13 things... There are a few things that kind of overlap my own list, but I agree with each and every one.
I have to say I especially agree with #10, and when it comes to clipping nails, that is someone I would NOT want to be seated next to! What if their fingernail shrapnel flew into my drink? Disgusting!
Just remember that you ARE in a public place, even it's a small and confined one. Don't do stuff that would embarrass your mother.
Webmistress Bonnie at LasVegas4Ever found an article titled "13 Things That Make You Public Enemy #1 On A Plane". Here's a link to that article: 13 things... There are a few things that kind of overlap my own list, but I agree with each and every one.
I have to say I especially agree with #10, and when it comes to clipping nails, that is someone I would NOT want to be seated next to! What if their fingernail shrapnel flew into my drink? Disgusting!
Just remember that you ARE in a public place, even it's a small and confined one. Don't do stuff that would embarrass your mother.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
"The Walking Dead"...Coming To a Casino Near You!
Pretty much anything can become a slot machine these days. Movies and TV shows are the biggest trends right now.
My husband's favorite TV show, "The Walking Dead", is coming to Vegas via Aristocrat slots.
Zombies!
He might actually play slot machines now! Well, probably not, but if he did, this is what he'd be playing.
I love all the themed slots in Vegas, especially if they have good bonus rounds with lots of interaction. I will have to try this one out on my next trip and see how it goes, so I will reserve judgement until then.
Here's a promo clip from YouTube:
Flesh-eating Fun
My husband's favorite TV show, "The Walking Dead", is coming to Vegas via Aristocrat slots.
Zombies!
He might actually play slot machines now! Well, probably not, but if he did, this is what he'd be playing.
I love all the themed slots in Vegas, especially if they have good bonus rounds with lots of interaction. I will have to try this one out on my next trip and see how it goes, so I will reserve judgement until then.
Here's a promo clip from YouTube:
Flesh-eating Fun
A Space Finally Filled at Harrah's!
I was hoping they'd put something good next to the Harrah's Sports Bar, and it looks like they did!
Carnaval Grill
The photos look yummy, so here's hoping that a quick food option is a positive change for Harrah's.
I have been supremely disappointed by the Harrah's Cafe' constantly changing its hours, its menu, and its whole attitude towards the customers. It was a great place to have a quick dinner, but now you can't do that. So, Carnaval Grill looks to meet that quick dining requirement.
If anyone has a chance to try it, please post your opinions!
Carnaval Grill
The photos look yummy, so here's hoping that a quick food option is a positive change for Harrah's.
I have been supremely disappointed by the Harrah's Cafe' constantly changing its hours, its menu, and its whole attitude towards the customers. It was a great place to have a quick dinner, but now you can't do that. So, Carnaval Grill looks to meet that quick dining requirement.
If anyone has a chance to try it, please post your opinions!
The Quad Makes Progress
This is a complete makeover I'm actually looking forward to seeing.
My original home-away-from-home, Imperial Palace, is getting ever closer to being transformed into The Quad. See some recent photos here: Metamorphosis
It was a very tired and outdated hotel, to be sure. There are so many good changes coming to it, but I am worried they will also price themselves out of my market, too. Let's hope they don't do that when they start renovating the rooms.
Imperial Palace was always a cheap place to stay in Vegas. I remember my very first trip in 1997, my mom, an aunt, and a cousin stayed in one room during a quick weekend trip that was part of a bigger trip to Southern California to see my dying uncle. That trip formed by Vegas foundation. I fell in love with the city, and I was able to find my way around the little casino blindfolded. After only a couple of trips, I was able to give people directions through the casino and hotel while they were in Vegas and I was sitting on my own couch at home because I knew it so well.
The food choices definitely needed updating. The Emperor's Buffet - I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I hope they give it a complete overhaul, as well. Hash House a Go-Go and Embers restaurant are the only two places I think are very good right now. But I'm looking forward to Guy Fieri's new restaurant, too.
So many possibilities. They should be almost finished with the main casino renovations by the time I get there in October, and I'm looking forward to a visit to see what great new things await.
My original home-away-from-home, Imperial Palace, is getting ever closer to being transformed into The Quad. See some recent photos here: Metamorphosis
It was a very tired and outdated hotel, to be sure. There are so many good changes coming to it, but I am worried they will also price themselves out of my market, too. Let's hope they don't do that when they start renovating the rooms.
Imperial Palace was always a cheap place to stay in Vegas. I remember my very first trip in 1997, my mom, an aunt, and a cousin stayed in one room during a quick weekend trip that was part of a bigger trip to Southern California to see my dying uncle. That trip formed by Vegas foundation. I fell in love with the city, and I was able to find my way around the little casino blindfolded. After only a couple of trips, I was able to give people directions through the casino and hotel while they were in Vegas and I was sitting on my own couch at home because I knew it so well.
The food choices definitely needed updating. The Emperor's Buffet - I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I hope they give it a complete overhaul, as well. Hash House a Go-Go and Embers restaurant are the only two places I think are very good right now. But I'm looking forward to Guy Fieri's new restaurant, too.
So many possibilities. They should be almost finished with the main casino renovations by the time I get there in October, and I'm looking forward to a visit to see what great new things await.
Bill's Changeover To Gansevoort Is Making Progress
I am not a huge fan of the new name, and I'm not really a big fan of Bill's Gambling Hall changing to Gansevoort...
But they are making progress. Here's a link to the latest information on the change from "gambling hall" to "boutique hotel": Floors With A View
I was finally curious enough to look up "Gansevoort" and find out what it means, because it's certainly not a word I hear every day, even in the world of all things Vegas :).
I found that Gansevoort was the surname of a Colonel in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. It is also the name of two luxury hotels in New York, which is who Caesars Entertainment is partnering with on this new venture. Here's an artist's rendering and a related article on the new Gansevoort boutique hotel in Las Vegas: High Style.
According to the article, the hotel is set to open in January 2014 with rates starting at $249 - WOW! That's far above the usual Bill's Gambling Hall rate. Those had better be some REALLY fantastic views of the Bellagio fountains!
Drai's late night club will be returning in the new hotel - and I'm sure that will make the Vegas party set very happy. I will enjoy it for another reason: people-watching as all the late night/early morning zombies return to their rooms. Ahhhhh...happiness.
Caesars Entertainment is trying to lure "a new breed" of Las Vegas tourist with this new hotel, in addition to the new Nobu wing at Caesars Palace and the makeover of Imperial Palace into "The Quad" (I will expound on that one further in another post), but they really need to remember that Vegas was built on the little guy, too. They are going to price themselves out of a market and have some of us loyal Caesars Entertainment hotel visitors moving to MLife Properties where we can get more FREE stuff by playing online games for comps, as well.
Just sayin'.
But they are making progress. Here's a link to the latest information on the change from "gambling hall" to "boutique hotel": Floors With A View
I was finally curious enough to look up "Gansevoort" and find out what it means, because it's certainly not a word I hear every day, even in the world of all things Vegas :).
I found that Gansevoort was the surname of a Colonel in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. It is also the name of two luxury hotels in New York, which is who Caesars Entertainment is partnering with on this new venture. Here's an artist's rendering and a related article on the new Gansevoort boutique hotel in Las Vegas: High Style.
According to the article, the hotel is set to open in January 2014 with rates starting at $249 - WOW! That's far above the usual Bill's Gambling Hall rate. Those had better be some REALLY fantastic views of the Bellagio fountains!
Drai's late night club will be returning in the new hotel - and I'm sure that will make the Vegas party set very happy. I will enjoy it for another reason: people-watching as all the late night/early morning zombies return to their rooms. Ahhhhh...happiness.
Caesars Entertainment is trying to lure "a new breed" of Las Vegas tourist with this new hotel, in addition to the new Nobu wing at Caesars Palace and the makeover of Imperial Palace into "The Quad" (I will expound on that one further in another post), but they really need to remember that Vegas was built on the little guy, too. They are going to price themselves out of a market and have some of us loyal Caesars Entertainment hotel visitors moving to MLife Properties where we can get more FREE stuff by playing online games for comps, as well.
Just sayin'.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Pssst! Wanna earn free stuff for Vegas?
I am a big fan of all things "free" in Vegas.
If you have a Facebook account and haven't signed up for the MyVegas games, you really should. You can save up "coins" to redeem for actual Vegas goodies. What could be better than that?
Go to apps.facebook.com/playmyvegas to sign up and start playing. You can earn coins in a few different ways, including adding Facebook friends as your MyVegas slot friends, giving each other gifts of "coins" every day, and by just playing the slot games for your own entertainment (but not for real money).
I was a little skeptical at first, until I saw a couple of my real-life Vegas friends easily redeem "coins" for actual Vegas experiences. The redemption process is very straightforward, and there are many prizes to be had - everything from a free glass of wine or an appetizer at MLife property restaurants and bars, to free show tickets and hotel rooms. Playing PRETEND slots to get REAL hotel rooms for free in Vegas? How much easier can it get?
All of the Las Vegas MLife properties are included in the MyVegas online world: Bellagio, Aria, MGM Grand, Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, Mirage, Monte Carlo, NY/NY and Circus Circus. There are prizes for each of the hotels, and they change often. You can view the rewards by hotel or "cost" to help you determine the number of "coins" you need to earn.
I am saving up my own "coins" to keep an eye out for some of the changing prizes and see what really piques my interest as I get closer to a trip. Some of the more popular rewards sell out quickly, so you need to keep an eye out for the stuff you really want to make sure you can snap up an offer before it's gone.
Things like free meals, free shows, and free hotel rooms are always a big draw for me. I usually stay at Caesars properties because that's where I gamble the most and get the most free offers in return, but if I can play an online game and get free things from other places, that's even better!
I have to go earn some more free stuff now...
If you have a Facebook account and haven't signed up for the MyVegas games, you really should. You can save up "coins" to redeem for actual Vegas goodies. What could be better than that?
Go to apps.facebook.com/playmyvegas to sign up and start playing. You can earn coins in a few different ways, including adding Facebook friends as your MyVegas slot friends, giving each other gifts of "coins" every day, and by just playing the slot games for your own entertainment (but not for real money).
I was a little skeptical at first, until I saw a couple of my real-life Vegas friends easily redeem "coins" for actual Vegas experiences. The redemption process is very straightforward, and there are many prizes to be had - everything from a free glass of wine or an appetizer at MLife property restaurants and bars, to free show tickets and hotel rooms. Playing PRETEND slots to get REAL hotel rooms for free in Vegas? How much easier can it get?
All of the Las Vegas MLife properties are included in the MyVegas online world: Bellagio, Aria, MGM Grand, Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, Mirage, Monte Carlo, NY/NY and Circus Circus. There are prizes for each of the hotels, and they change often. You can view the rewards by hotel or "cost" to help you determine the number of "coins" you need to earn.
I am saving up my own "coins" to keep an eye out for some of the changing prizes and see what really piques my interest as I get closer to a trip. Some of the more popular rewards sell out quickly, so you need to keep an eye out for the stuff you really want to make sure you can snap up an offer before it's gone.
Things like free meals, free shows, and free hotel rooms are always a big draw for me. I usually stay at Caesars properties because that's where I gamble the most and get the most free offers in return, but if I can play an online game and get free things from other places, that's even better!
I have to go earn some more free stuff now...
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Slots going the way of the Dodo?
I don't want to believe what I am hearing.
Presumably, the "next big thing" in Vegas is something I personally don't want to see happen there...EVER. At the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas this week, the Powers That Be debuted video slot machines on the iPad. This way, you'll be able to play quietly in restaurants and bars instead of at the big, noisy machines you play now. Wait...what? Whatchoo talkin' bout, Willis?
Here's a link to the article: Nooooooooo!
That's part of - heck, that's MOST OF the reason I go to Vegas now. The bright, shiny overdone-ness of it all. I don't want to play video slots on my iPad; I already have games on there. I like those games for when I'm NOT in Vegas, when I'm NOT surrounded by complete strangers that I can high-five for a great slot win, or that I can NOT eye enviously when they get the bonus round I so desperately covet every time I sit down at a machine.
I want a machine that makes lots of noise, something that makes me look UP and watch the wheels spin, or watch the videos play, or feel the vibrations in the cool Bose chairs that put me in the game. I DON'T WANT TO PLAY THEM ON MY iPAD IN THE RESTAURANT!
Are the Powers That Be somehow trying to take the slot machines out of Vegas? Make it back into the table game mecca it once was? If they do that, they're going to have to get rid of 6:5 blackjack on the Strip and take the table minimums waaaaaay down, or they will be losing some serious business. The Club Crowd doesn't care about the slot machines or the table games for sure, but what about all those people who lurk others while they play their favorite games? That's part of the fun! That's part of the drama! That's part of Vegas!
Yes, changes to Vegas happen all the time, but seriously?!?!?! I won't go to Vegas to play on a iPad in a restaurant or "in a stadium". I'd much rather visit my nearest Indian casino and get a (somewhat realistic) fix there, instead.
So the restaurants are making more money than the slot machines now...that doesn't mean the slot machines aren't making money; it just means the focus is changing a bit. But don't take away the machines!
The day they take the last slot machines out of Las Vegas casinos will be the day I (sadly) head home from my last trip to my favorite city.
And there will be tears.
Presumably, the "next big thing" in Vegas is something I personally don't want to see happen there...EVER. At the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas this week, the Powers That Be debuted video slot machines on the iPad. This way, you'll be able to play quietly in restaurants and bars instead of at the big, noisy machines you play now. Wait...what? Whatchoo talkin' bout, Willis?
Here's a link to the article: Nooooooooo!
That's part of - heck, that's MOST OF the reason I go to Vegas now. The bright, shiny overdone-ness of it all. I don't want to play video slots on my iPad; I already have games on there. I like those games for when I'm NOT in Vegas, when I'm NOT surrounded by complete strangers that I can high-five for a great slot win, or that I can NOT eye enviously when they get the bonus round I so desperately covet every time I sit down at a machine.
I want a machine that makes lots of noise, something that makes me look UP and watch the wheels spin, or watch the videos play, or feel the vibrations in the cool Bose chairs that put me in the game. I DON'T WANT TO PLAY THEM ON MY iPAD IN THE RESTAURANT!
Are the Powers That Be somehow trying to take the slot machines out of Vegas? Make it back into the table game mecca it once was? If they do that, they're going to have to get rid of 6:5 blackjack on the Strip and take the table minimums waaaaaay down, or they will be losing some serious business. The Club Crowd doesn't care about the slot machines or the table games for sure, but what about all those people who lurk others while they play their favorite games? That's part of the fun! That's part of the drama! That's part of Vegas!
Yes, changes to Vegas happen all the time, but seriously?!?!?! I won't go to Vegas to play on a iPad in a restaurant or "in a stadium". I'd much rather visit my nearest Indian casino and get a (somewhat realistic) fix there, instead.
So the restaurants are making more money than the slot machines now...that doesn't mean the slot machines aren't making money; it just means the focus is changing a bit. But don't take away the machines!
The day they take the last slot machines out of Las Vegas casinos will be the day I (sadly) head home from my last trip to my favorite city.
And there will be tears.
Friday, September 28, 2012
10 Best Buffets in Vegas? (Link to article, and a few comments of my own...)
LasVegasDirect.com has an article titled "The Top 10 Las Vegas Buffets" on their website. It (obviously) lists their opinions of the top ten Las Vegas buffets, as well as a buffet 'survival guide' that has tips on everything from waiting in a buffet line to tipping the buffet waitstaff for service, and it includes a listing of Las Vegas buffets at the end. Here's a link to the website: Nom nom nom!
Of the top ten buffets listed, I've eaten at six: The Bellagio Buffet, The Buffet at Wynn, Le Village Buffet at Paris, Cravings at The Mirage, The Wicked Spoon Buffet at Cosmopolitan and Spice Market Buffet at Planet Hollywood. I have reviews for each of these buffets already listed on my blog if you'd like to read them (click the "buffet reviews" link on the right to check them out). My favorite two of those - by far - are The Bellagio Buffet and The Buffet at Wynn. I have been to both of them multiple times, and I would definitely go to either one again.
It seems to be a slightly weighted buffet listing by some, since it lists mostly Caesars Entertainment and MLife properties, but it makes perfect sense to me because I stay on the Strip and I don't venture far away. Maybe the author of the article does the same, and therefore hasn't ever tried the M's buffet, or the MSS buffet downtown, both of which I hear are very good, but I don't know.
The article does mention the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars but states that it's just "too new" and that it needs time before they determine if it should be on the list. From what I've heard about it - and what I hope to experience myself - is that the Bacchanal Buffet is, indeed, very good and should be at the top of the list. Time and tasting will tell...
For the record, buffets are hard things to review in general, because there are so many choices, and a reviewer (such as myself) may not like certain things, like veal or lamb, or even seemingly innocuous vegetable items like beets and yams - which I call "God's mistakes" because I really don't like the flavor, smell or texture of either one of them - and they won't give what everyone would consider a well-rounded review because they avoid these items altogether. In addition, I think people who have dietary restrictions or allergies of any kind can't really enjoy buffets the way most people can, because they have to limit themselves when it comes to things like salt or sugar intake, gluten, or even shellfish, dairy and nut products. Still, I do my best to sample a bit of everything because I really DO like to try new things, and I certainly have a hard time passing up nice buffet presentations...or desserts.
Do yourself a favor and try one of these buffets on your next trip to Vegas so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about.
Of the top ten buffets listed, I've eaten at six: The Bellagio Buffet, The Buffet at Wynn, Le Village Buffet at Paris, Cravings at The Mirage, The Wicked Spoon Buffet at Cosmopolitan and Spice Market Buffet at Planet Hollywood. I have reviews for each of these buffets already listed on my blog if you'd like to read them (click the "buffet reviews" link on the right to check them out). My favorite two of those - by far - are The Bellagio Buffet and The Buffet at Wynn. I have been to both of them multiple times, and I would definitely go to either one again.
It seems to be a slightly weighted buffet listing by some, since it lists mostly Caesars Entertainment and MLife properties, but it makes perfect sense to me because I stay on the Strip and I don't venture far away. Maybe the author of the article does the same, and therefore hasn't ever tried the M's buffet, or the MSS buffet downtown, both of which I hear are very good, but I don't know.
The article does mention the Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars but states that it's just "too new" and that it needs time before they determine if it should be on the list. From what I've heard about it - and what I hope to experience myself - is that the Bacchanal Buffet is, indeed, very good and should be at the top of the list. Time and tasting will tell...
For the record, buffets are hard things to review in general, because there are so many choices, and a reviewer (such as myself) may not like certain things, like veal or lamb, or even seemingly innocuous vegetable items like beets and yams - which I call "God's mistakes" because I really don't like the flavor, smell or texture of either one of them - and they won't give what everyone would consider a well-rounded review because they avoid these items altogether. In addition, I think people who have dietary restrictions or allergies of any kind can't really enjoy buffets the way most people can, because they have to limit themselves when it comes to things like salt or sugar intake, gluten, or even shellfish, dairy and nut products. Still, I do my best to sample a bit of everything because I really DO like to try new things, and I certainly have a hard time passing up nice buffet presentations...or desserts.
Do yourself a favor and try one of these buffets on your next trip to Vegas so you can see for yourself what all the fuss is about.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Link to article: Imperial Palace will become "The Quad"
Caesars Entertainment posted on their blog today that Imperial Palace's face lift will certainly not be the only thing "new"about her; she will be renamed "The Quad". Here's a link to the story, with a concept photo of the interior-to-be: IP to Quad in 4 letters
Now, I'm not sure what I think at all. As I've said before, IP was my Vegas 'home away from home' for quite awhile before Caesars Entertainment engulfed most of the mid-Strip properties and I got comped elsewhere, but it's going to look more like something that belongs in City Center - not unlike the Cosmopolitan - instead of the Vegas themed hotel I've loved.
I might love it, and I might not. I love the Cosmopolitan's casino and Aria's rooms, but I really don't care for City Center as a whole and I HATE Crystals shopping complex because it's too high end, spread out and confusing to navigate.
But I digress. The thing is, as friends of mine have already said, I have a feeling that one of the biggest changes is going to be that they are no longer the affordable choice in the Caesars Entertainment group.
According to the website, the changes will begin with the revamping of the casino (in addition to their facade, which are both already undergoing changes), then the restaurants and shops, and so on. The article also notes that the Auto Collection will remain, although I'm sure the name will change somewhat. That's good, because they have a great collection of vehicles that makes for an entertaining and diverting afternoon for a low price. Or even free, if you can find a coupon.
Still, it will be interesting to see the changes, and I am looking forward to checking out the entire property from top to bottom to see how things come together. Whether I will like them or not - and spend time in the casino and hotel or not - remains to be seen.
If you visit, let me know! I'm curious about the changes as they take place and hope to post updates as I hear about them.
Now, I'm not sure what I think at all. As I've said before, IP was my Vegas 'home away from home' for quite awhile before Caesars Entertainment engulfed most of the mid-Strip properties and I got comped elsewhere, but it's going to look more like something that belongs in City Center - not unlike the Cosmopolitan - instead of the Vegas themed hotel I've loved.
I might love it, and I might not. I love the Cosmopolitan's casino and Aria's rooms, but I really don't care for City Center as a whole and I HATE Crystals shopping complex because it's too high end, spread out and confusing to navigate.
But I digress. The thing is, as friends of mine have already said, I have a feeling that one of the biggest changes is going to be that they are no longer the affordable choice in the Caesars Entertainment group.
According to the website, the changes will begin with the revamping of the casino (in addition to their facade, which are both already undergoing changes), then the restaurants and shops, and so on. The article also notes that the Auto Collection will remain, although I'm sure the name will change somewhat. That's good, because they have a great collection of vehicles that makes for an entertaining and diverting afternoon for a low price. Or even free, if you can find a coupon.
Still, it will be interesting to see the changes, and I am looking forward to checking out the entire property from top to bottom to see how things come together. Whether I will like them or not - and spend time in the casino and hotel or not - remains to be seen.
If you visit, let me know! I'm curious about the changes as they take place and hope to post updates as I hear about them.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
The face of the Las Vegas Strip continues to change...
I've been visiting Las Vegas since August 1997, and I have seen several of the current Strip hotels built from the ground up during that time: The Venetian and Palazzo, Bellagio, Wynn and Encore are the biggest and the brightest of that bunch. The Boardwalk - along with its giant, creepy clown out front - was torn down and replaced by the gigantic, confusing mish-mash that is City Center. The Aladdin got a face lift, and then it got a new name along with yet another face lift when it was purchased by Planet Hollywood.
I've also seen classic hotels torn down, not to be replaced; namely The Frontier and Stardust. A partially completed hotel skeleton stands where the Stardust once did, instead of something new. Will its replacement ever be finished? No one knows for sure. For now it stands as just a sad, empty testament to what once was.
Here's what's left of the Stardust - now located at the Neon Boneyard:
Now Caesars Entertainment is trying to one-up the competition by re-doing the Imperial Palace and giving it a new name to go along with a new face on the Strip. The name has yet to be determined, and I have no idea what it will eventually be called.
In addition to that, Caesars Entertainment has already torn apart the O'Shea's Casino - along with its parking garage - in order to prepare for construction of the boardwalk shopping area that will eventually connect the giant Linq wheel to the Strip. They have also torn down everything they own on Koval Avenue behind the Strip to start building the huge Linq wheel itself, as well as more of the boardwalk entertainment area. The whole thing is supposed to be a destination with an Atlantic City-like boardwalk feel. The Linq project is scheduled to open sometime during the Summer of 2013. Here's a good blog entry about the project, with great photos: Link to the Linq
If you'd like to see what's already happened to Imperial Palace's neighbor (and some of Imperial Palace's own insides), check out the Caesars blog entry here: Goodbye to you
I am sort of excited to see what will happen to Imperial Palace on the inside, because she was certainly getting to be a tired old girl. Even the vanilla upgrades made by Harrah's Entertainment (before it became Caesars Entertainment) weren't enough to keep it going forever, and she was badly in need of a makeover. Even though I have many good memories of my beloved IP, I hope she is prettier after her makeover.
I've also seen classic hotels torn down, not to be replaced; namely The Frontier and Stardust. A partially completed hotel skeleton stands where the Stardust once did, instead of something new. Will its replacement ever be finished? No one knows for sure. For now it stands as just a sad, empty testament to what once was.
Here's what's left of the Stardust - now located at the Neon Boneyard:
 |
| Gone, but not forgotten... |
In addition to that, Caesars Entertainment has already torn apart the O'Shea's Casino - along with its parking garage - in order to prepare for construction of the boardwalk shopping area that will eventually connect the giant Linq wheel to the Strip. They have also torn down everything they own on Koval Avenue behind the Strip to start building the huge Linq wheel itself, as well as more of the boardwalk entertainment area. The whole thing is supposed to be a destination with an Atlantic City-like boardwalk feel. The Linq project is scheduled to open sometime during the Summer of 2013. Here's a good blog entry about the project, with great photos: Link to the Linq
If you'd like to see what's already happened to Imperial Palace's neighbor (and some of Imperial Palace's own insides), check out the Caesars blog entry here: Goodbye to you
I am sort of excited to see what will happen to Imperial Palace on the inside, because she was certainly getting to be a tired old girl. Even the vanilla upgrades made by Harrah's Entertainment (before it became Caesars Entertainment) weren't enough to keep it going forever, and she was badly in need of a makeover. Even though I have many good memories of my beloved IP, I hope she is prettier after her makeover.
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