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amiller asked on 05/30/05
What theme is the Palazzo going for? Do you have any picture of what the hotel is supposed to look like? Do you think that this will be a great quality built hotel vs the Venitan- and do you think the Venitan executives plan to add more hotels to the strip to keep up with the MGM-Mandalay, and Harrahs-Caesars giants?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Plenty of our Palazzo info here. They are going for a ‘Beverley Hills’ theme… Personally, I am no fan of The Venetian so I hope they don’t make all the same mistakes again. The next decade at Las Vegas Sands will see the addition of the Palazzo and then a focus on Macao, China.
amiller asked on 05/30/05
Hey Hunter- I see in your Flickr page that MGM Grand is building something next to the mansion, it appears to be an addition to the Mansion? What is this? It looks like its obstructing a great deal of room windows and obstructing the view of MGM Grand to people on the street. Thanks! -Adam
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hard to say exactly what you are referring to. Some of those pictures show construction on what is now the Ka Theater, others show renovations in process for the ‘West Wing’, formerly the Emerald Tower.
raoul_777 asked on 05/28/05
Hey. I will be in vegas july 1st and 2nd, and i am currently looking to see Jay Leno at the Mirage. Have you seen his show before, if so was it good. Thx.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Jay’s show is pretty much the same everywhere he tours. If you like his Tonight Show shtick, it’s more of the same with a bit more adult friendly content that he can’t go into on TV.
macfrodge asked on 05/27/05
Hi! Going back to Vegas in the Fall, and was wondering if there are any good clubs on (or just off) the strip that don’t exclusively cater to the 21 year olds… We’re a bunch of mid 30s to 40s looking to listen to tunes we actually know! Any good clubs that play tacky disco tunes mixed in with other genres? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
At 26, there is quite a bit of music played in the clubs that I can’t stand, so I certainly understand. The House of Blues has an 80s dance night on most Fridays… As far as disco goes, sometimes the DJs will feature it at MGM Grand’s Studio 54 and the Rio’s BiKiNiS.
seanbertiger asked on 05/26/05
hey hunter! I was wondering where is the best place to have a private birthday party? I am looking for something inexpensive, for about 30 people, maybe more or less. No dinner, i just need a place where we could dance and just have fun. I was thinking about getting a sweet. Would that be a problem for me? i am not a high roller tho, thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
30 people in almost any suite would probably be a little crowded… Some suites are designed for hospitality but even those are would probably top out at about 20 people comfortably, and depending on how loud you get, the neighbors might complain… You might be able to get up to 30 people in one of the Mirage hospitality suites… It would be a bit tight though. There are a few places that do dinner. There are very few that will work for dancing… VIP rooms at the major nightclubs are available but they are NOT inexpensive. You could rent a small convention room – some are designed for the 30-50 people range… But getting drinks and music in there would be tough and the whole deal would probably be as expensive as getting a killer suite… As you can tell, I’m not coming up with a slam dunk answer for you. You probably want to look at a couple of options and compare prices: 1. Calling a nightclub like Studio 54 (MGM Grand), rumjungle (Mandalay Bay) or Ra (Luxor) and asking about accommodating a group of 30. 2. Looking at a hospitality suite. MGM Grand, The Mirage and Wynn Las Vegas have specific suites designed for this purpose. Even a suite at THEHotel (Mandalay Bay) could maybe hold 30 people, but it would be tight… I wish I had a more helpful answer for you.
MikeK asked on 05/25/05
I’m planning a trip to Vegas next January. I would like to get your opinion on the MGM Grand Bungalow King Suite vs The Aladdin/Planet Hollywood Resort Vista or Strip Suite. Is one better than the other? I would like a nice strip view.
What about the quality of hotel? Will the chageover from Aladdin to Planet Hollywood be in full swing at that point causing problems?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would expect some construction to be underway by January. That might be a reason to steer clear of the Aladdin at that point… Both hotels and rooms are in the same ball park in terms of quality. Based on your timing, I’d probably be at MGM Grand.
donnaj asked on 05/25/05
what a great site!! will be out mid Oct. do you know if there are still electronic horse race games anywhere? thanks much. Donna
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
YES! I’ve seen two in the past couple of months. One uses horses and is at MGM Grand, in the basic dead center of the casino. The other is at Luxor and uses camels, but is the same game. It is near the sports book.
perryrr asked on 05/24/05
Hunter, another question, I want to do something romantic for my partner but under $150, what do you recommend would be the most romantic thing to do in vegas… not necessarily dinner, JUST ROMANTIC.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you’re talking dinner, a great spot for a romantic meal is the Eiffel Tower restaurant – the view is incredible. Other spots with great views include Alex at Wynn Las Vegas, SW at Wynn, and Picasso at Bellagio. Some folks would probably recommend the gondolas at The Venetian, but I think they are pretty cheesy. What isn’t are the gondolas at Lake Las Vegas. For more info, look here.
perryrr asked on 05/23/05
Hunter, Just found this website, it’s awesome! I am going to Vegas Memorial Weekend. It was a last minute deal from www.site59.com so we are staying at the Holiday Inn Express just off the strip. Do you know anything about this hotel and/or location? Any help would be greatly appreicated.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! Based on a quick Web search, it looks like this hotel is across the 15 from the South end of the Strip. That means driving or cabbing over to the casinos.
thecips asked on 05/23/05
Hi Hunter,
We are staying at Venetian in 2 weeks for our annv. We looking for a quiet lounge to have drinks in the evening. We are in our 50’S and not looking to party hardy. (that was a long time ago) We will be there from Tuesday to Sat if that makes a difference.
Love your site
Linda
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Unfortunately, the Venetian doesn’t really have a great quiet lounge akin to something like the Petrossian Bar at Bellagio. You might walk next door to Wynn Las Vegas and try Parasol Down, which can be a nice place to hang out. Another option would be Ava across the street at The Mirage.
fraxxled asked on 05/21/05
Great Site!
I have stayed at TI the last several times that I have been out to Vegas. The reason being that since the first time, everything has been comped and it has just been really easy to call out there to a host and get a reservation for a suite, etc.. The last time I was there, they were just starting to make the transition to the “new TI”. I’ve heard mixed reviews about what it is like now. Anyway, I think I’d like to stay somewhere nicer, more elegant, more girls (30-ish), etc…
My question is this -
If I call a host at Mirage or Bellagio, could I get comped at the same level as at TI? (Being that at one time the points/ratings were “transferable”).
Also, if I called a host at somewhere like Mandalay Bay, would they have anyway of knowing my level of play being that they are a totally different company?
Any insight would be greatly appreciated…
Thanks!!!
LB
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Mirage, Bellagio, TI and now Mandalay Bay are all owned by MGM MIRAGE so in theory a host at any property should be able to check on your play. Your best bet is to contact a host and tell them how much you play and where you play and see what they offer you. Usually the host will find a way to work it out.
jsaldridge asked on 05/20/05
I love your site and have utilized your knowledge before, so here I am again. Four buddies are headed back out to Vegas in September, staying at Caesars Palace….I’m not a big fan, but my buddies get RFB so how can I complain. My question is about Sports Books. We will want to watch the NFL games on Sunday and want to go where it’s fun, but not so crowded we can’t get a seat anywhere. Where would you recommend?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks. Rule #1: Never complain about RFB (or complain a lot to get more stuff). Caesars remodeled their book and it’s a lot nicer. Also, try Wynn, The Mirage, MGM Grand or Bellagio. The problem is that the nice places are usually at least somewhat crowded – but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a seat.
conrkev asked on 05/20/05
Hi Hunter, fantastic and informative site. Going to Vegas over 4th of July and staying at Bellagio. Two quick questions. 1: Has the monorail between Bellagio and Monte Carlo reopened since the Spa Tower opened late last year? As of January it was still closed. 2: Do you know of any fireworks shows that are planned around the 4th of July on the strip? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
1. Yes. 2. For 4th of July info as it becomes available, check here.
macfrodge asked on 05/18/05
Going back to Vegas for 3rd time in the fall. Not much of a gambler, so will let hubby do his thing in the casinos while I do my thing: shopping. What are the best Outlet malls within taxi range? Have previously visited the Fashion Outlet @ Primm and was pretty disappointed… Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you weren’t impressed with Primm, you might not be that impressed with the Las Vegas Outlets either. Located South of Mandalay Bay, they offer quite a few stores. See their Web site here.
Nevermatters asked on 05/18/05
Hey Hunter, do you happen to know the demographics of the people that are/will be staying at Wynn Las Vegas?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No demographics have been released. One thing is common: $$’s.
justin31 asked on 05/18/05
Hey Hunter… great site! problem is that my girlfriend and I just won a trip and we have to leave this saturday 21st til the 25th. we’re staying off strip at boulder station so our hotel aint the greatest. we’re both virgins to vegas so I want to make sure that our first time wont be our last. All we want to do is cheap eats, do some nitelife and experience vegas the best we could during this time… HELP!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sorry I didn’t get to this earlier… Make sure you spend time on the Strip and see the Fountains of Bellagio and the volcano at The Mirage. If you have time, head downtown and see the Fremont St. Experience. Depending on your age, nightlife can range from nightclubs at The Palms, Mandalay Bay or TI to lounges at Bellagio. Regarding cheap eats, some Strip buffets are excellent values while others, while very good, are expensive (Wynn, Bellagio, The Mirage). Make sure you check out the world’s most expensive casino, Wynn Las Vegas.
AnnaMikeMc asked on 05/17/05
Hi Hunter (again) do you know anything about skydiving in Vegas? I was looking at two companies, both who look reputable, A Skydive Las Vegas and Vegas Extreme Skydiving. Are there any others that are popular? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Does Skydive Las Vegas offer real skydiving beyond their indoor skydiving? Or am I thinking of something else? Anyway, sorry – I don’t believe in skydiving.
thecips asked on 05/16/05
Hi Hunter,
Just wondering where is the best place to eat or have drinks at night to see the bellagio fountains? Or even lunch for that matter.Is Madame Tussaud’s in the venetian worth seeing?
Thanks
Linda
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The best views are located from the Fontana Lounge and the following restaurants: Olives, Picasso and Prime. There is a small outdoor bar between Picasso and Prime but if you’re not into getting dinner, the Fontana Lounge is by far the best spot (with outdoor options as well). They usually have a two drink minimum but reservations are not required. If you do want a meal, Olives is open for lunch and has an outdoor patio… Madame Tussaud’s can be kind of fun. It’s not as great as the outpost in London but the sculptures are remarkably lifelike.
swp asked on 05/16/05
Hi Hunter,
Just wondering…have you checked out the Hauf Brau Haus in Vegas ?
I understand it is an exact replica of the same in Munich. Should be a lot of fun.
Also, how about your recommendations on Bootlegger’s Bistro ? I hear the food there is excellent. Thanks for your feedback
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, it is a replica of the location in Munich and it can be quite a lot of fun. Parking is a problem though, so take a cab or park at the Hard Rock across the street. Bootlegger’s is a local’s secret. The food is excellent and the entertainment usually includes many Strip headliners, from Clint Holmes to Nevada’s Lt. Governor.
mamanmidwife asked on 05/16/05
Wondering which hotel on the strip has the nicest spa suites, ie tub for 2 perhaps with a view. and also are in room couple massages available at the hotels that have spas attached?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The most popular are Luxor, Monte Carlo, and NYNY. These hotels offer Jacuzzi Suites that are designed around this amenity. Some other rooms have oversized bathtubs but usually don’t feature a view. Those include suites at Mirage, TI, Bellagio, Wynn, etc… As far as in-room massages, most hotels don’t offer them. Wynn Las Vegas does have suites with their own massage rooms.
jlaspada asked on 05/13/05
Hunter, we are planning on upgrading to a lakeview room at Bellagio when we go in June. Would you recommend us requesting a spa lakeview room or a lakeview room in the original section? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The original tower offers the most complete view of the lake, so if that is a priority for you, that’s probably where you want to be.
mary asked on 05/13/05
Hi Hunter,Coming to Vegas in October with 3 friends. We cannot decide between “O” and “KA”. Both sound great. Help us choose! Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
‘O’ is a more seasoned show – it’s been running since 1998 while Ka only just started running to non-preview audiences… Both are incredible but ‘O’ will always be one of my favorites.
thecips asked on 05/12/05
Hi Hunter,
We are staying at Venetian for are 25th Annv next month. Just upgraded to the concerige level in the Venezia tower. I asked for a Strip View which they told me was a Bella Vista suite. The were very helpful and nice on phone. Is there another view which is better? Did i make right choice by doing the upgrade? Also booked Presidntial limo to and from hotel. Is this a good limo company to deal with? We want our 25th to be the best annv we have every had want nothing to go wrong.
Thanks for all your help
Linda
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Bella Vista suite in the Venezia Tower is your best bet for a Strip view, yes. It sounds like you want your trip to be special so I think that the upgrade was a fantastic idea. I haven’t used Presidential Limo so I can’t help you with that specific outfit but if they are able to screw up a short drive like that, I’d be surprised. Have a good one!
AnnaMikeMc asked on 05/12/05
Hi again Hunter! Another restaurant question…for lunch only, what would you choose from these options? Ah Sin or Tsunami Asian Grill? Mesa Grill or Taqueria Canonita? Also, feel free to offer other suggestions! We are looking for a nice place that isn’t too boring (no California Pizza kitchen or anything you can find anywhere). Already been to Postrio, Spago, Olives and Pinot Brasserie, and so far have chosen Le Provencal, Sensi, Corsa Cucina for this time. Thanks! :)
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Ah Sin and Canonita are pretty good but my top choice from your list would be Mesa Grill. Great restaurant. You’ll really like Corsa Cucina… Perhaps also look at Red 8 (Wynn), a nice choice.
wsuwoohoo asked on 05/12/05
Im traveling to Vegas this summer. This will be my 4th time. I know that the Bellagio has a rule that you must be 18 (or perhaps 17) to walk alone in the hotel. Obviously the Wynn is much better, are there any rules such as age restrictions or guest only restrictions while walking around the grounds of the new Wynn?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, there are. No strollers are allowed unless you are a hotel guest and visitors must be 18 or older to enter the property. Guests can be any age provided they meet the check-in requirements.
bigrob418 asked on 05/12/05
Are the any nite clubs for a young crowds of 19-20 years old
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sorry, no. All clubs that serve booze are 21+.
AnnaMikeMc asked on 05/11/05
Hi Hunter! I saw that you ate lunch at Corsa Cucina and I was wondering what your impressions were of the menu. Does it go beyond your average italian lunch cuisine? Do you remember any spefics on the menu? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I really enjoyed it. We walked in on a whim and loved everything we ordered. Lots of pizzas and pastas… I had a lobster panini that was excellent, my wife had some sole in parchment paper that was also excellent. The decor is a bit deceiving for this joint – it was fantastic.
wsuwoohoo asked on 05/11/05
Are there any clubs for Adults 18 & over? Im 18 but am having trouble finding a dance club to go to! Help!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No dance clubs that I know of, sorry. All that serve booze are 21+.
jlaspada asked on 05/10/05
OK Hunter, you’re probably getting sick of me but I honestly value your opinion. Would you stay at Bellagio or Wynn in their standard rooms (possibly upgrading to fountain view and panoramic view) with a difference in price of $20 per night? (Wynn being more) And lastly, would you most definitely upgrade at each resort? Thanks again!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I never get sick of any of my readers! No question I would stay at Wynn if it was $20 more than Bellagio. I think the Bellagio is a great hotel but Wynn is better and that cost difference is negligible. The standard rooms at both resorts can be fine if you get a good view – that is key… At Bellagio you want a lake view… At Wynn, both views are great as long as you’re not on a super low floor.
bigrob418 asked on 05/10/05
will the $20 trick work at the polo towers
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Never know. Try it and report back!
bigrob418 asked on 05/10/05
I am vistiong vegas next weekend I am staying at the polo towers what should I expect at a room rate at $75 a nite at the resort. Plus I want to visit the new Wynn resort whatsis the features of the lake on the free attraction at the Lake
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Polo Towers is more of a budget accommodation vs. some luxury properties. Expect clean rooms and a good location, that’s what they’re selling. Wynn’s Lake of Dreams features several multimedia presentations projected on to the lake. It is hard to explain but it features lights, a pretty cool giant head and water. You just have to see it but to do that, you’ll have to have a drink at Parasol Down, a bar.
zed0202 asked on 05/09/05
Ten of us plan on staying in three rooms at the Venezia Tower in the Venetian. We only stated that there are six people; two per room. While we didn’t have any problem with this at the “old” suites in the Venetian, will there be a problem at the new tower? Do you know if there is a hotel associate checking key cards for the new tower? Will it be better to change my reservations to the old tower? Thanks for all your help!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most likely, no. When the tower first opened, security was much tighter than it is now. I don’t expect any problems.
jennifersiegel@hotmail.com asked on 05/09/05
Hi Hunter, My husband and I are staying at Wynn next month. We made reservations at Wing Lei. I am a little confused because in your blog review it didn’t sound like you enjoyed it that much but your review in another area says it is your favorite chinese and that it was excellent. So which is it? We are planning on eating one dinner at Wynn, what restaurant do you recommend? We want to eat at a casual/nice restaurant-Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Out of all the restaurants we ate at, Wing Lei was my least favorite. Don’t take that as a negative review. The food and service were fantastic but we had a ton of great meals at the hotel so I stand by my statement. If you’re looking for excellent Chinese, Wing Lei will not disappoint. If you’re looking for the best restaurant at Wynn, try SW Steakhouse. I hope that helps.
Orlandoguy asked on 05/07/05
I will be staying at the Venezia at the Venetian next month and while I’ve seen mixed reviews on the resort, I’m looking forward to it. One question I have is does the hotel offer luggage storage before a room is available at check in and after check out time on the day of departure? We have a flight in before noon and a evening departure. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, the bell desk will store your luggage at no charge. Have a great trip!
booshie asked on 05/06/05
I am staying at the hilton memorial day weekend for my tenth anniversary and have booked a suite at the casino rates. I would like to know what tower is the best option for the Hilton and what should i ask for as far as an upgrade. Thank You Hunter
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If possible, you want to get a high floor with a view of the Strip… In LV Hilton terms this means you want either the ‘Central Tower’ or the ‘East Tower’ suites with a Strip view – not all of the rooms have the Strip view. Personally, I would stay away from the ‘Lanai Suites’ because they are located at the ground floor level and offer no views. If you want an upgrade, you may try for a ‘Napa’ suite. Other than views, the towers are all inside the same building and offer similar amenities. Have fun!
hlatos asked on 05/06/05
i am invited to the wynn hotel la bete opening party on saturday may 7. i would like to know if the event will be attended by celebrities (brett ratner,etc.) or more of a low key media event?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This is probably a bit too late to help you but yes, celebrities are expected. I did see Brett Ratner on property a few days back so he may very well attend.
Pronkster asked on 05/06/05
What buffet would you recommend for a mothers day brunch that will accomocate my handicapped mother.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
All modern Las Vegas buffets can accommodate handicapped patrons. I would recommend taking a look at the Buffet at Bellagio, Paris, and Wynn Las Vegas for some great options.
thecips asked on 05/05/05
I love this site. we are going to Vegas June 7th to 11th. Staying at Venetian in Bella Suite Concerige Venezia Tower, what can you tell me about these rooms and how was casino at Wynn’s? Tight slots and ang $ 5.00 table’s?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Wynn’s casino is quite nice. I really enjoyed my play there. The lowest minimum I saw was $10 and there is quite a selection of slot machines. I don’t think they’re any tighter than any other Strip property. At the Venetian, the concierge floors offer some very personal service. They will really take care of you over there. The Venezia Tower is much nicer than the original tower, so you made the right play as far as which part of the Venetian to stay in.
jennifersiegel@hotmail.com asked on 05/05/05
Hi! My husband and I are staying at Wynn in mid June. I have two main questions: did you see the show and how was it? or have you heard reviews? My next question is regarding the golf course there-is it really worth $500! My husband has a tee time set up, is it worth it or would you recommend another course? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
We did not see Le Reve. From what I have heard, the show still needs some work so if you don’t already have tickets you might want to hold off until your next trip… The course is fantastic. I am not a golfer but got a chance to check out the course and spoke with other golfers about the design. They loved it.
dburt asked on 05/04/05
I and 2 other couples are going to Las Vegas July 15th and leaving the 17th. My friend is a club member with Bally’s et al and I am with MGM. We would like to get a discounted room at a nice place somewhere, like a casino rate for about $100 a night, but would like to stay all at the same place. Got any suggestions for this frugal hunter.
Dave
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
My best suggestion is to call around and see what you can get. How much play do you plan to do? Check out The Mirage and Treasure Island to see if they will offer you casino rate based on your play. Have fun!
Nevermatters asked on 05/04/05
Hi Hunter! Would you happen to know what the difference is between the resort room and tower suite at Wynn Las Vegas is (just the room itself, not the services that go along with it)? I’m asking because from the Wynn website they appear to be identical in sq ft and floor plan. Granted you get the separate elevator, check in, breakfast/lunch reservations at some restaurant with the suite. But I’m just focusing on the room. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The difference is just the included services. That’s it. The actual rooms are the same.
jlaspada asked on 05/04/05
Hunter, finally booked our hotel stay at Bellagio. Excited and HOPING to get an upgrade to either a spa tower room or suite. Any ideas? We will be there 6/26-7/1 celebrating our anniversary. Already booked O tickets. I am also curious if you can help me with any tour company’s that you are familiar with and would recommend for the Grand Canyon. Thanks so much and looking forward to your Wynn review!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Spa Tower rooms are the same as the rooms in the main ‘Bellagio’ tower so you might be able to get one by simply requesting it. I doubt you’ll be able to get a suite upgrade without shelling out some cash though. I really like Maverick Tours for Grand Canyon and other helicopter type stuff. All professionals, nice aircraft and a nice facility at the airport.
impulse asked on 05/02/05
I have stayed at TheHotel and I recently booked another stay there.over July 4th. It will be me my wife, and my parents. I was wondering if you think that the rooms are better at Wynn Las Vegas. I really enjoyed the stay at The Hotel but just wanted to check. Are there any dont miss events happening over the fourth. Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I loved the rooms at Wynn. The standard room is not a suite however, so if you compare it to the default room at THEHotel, they are not apples-to-apples. Also consider the rest of the property. I’m not a huge fan of Mandalay Bay anyway but Wynn blows away every other Vegas casino I’ve seen.
blazedchris2004 asked on 05/02/05
hey im staying in vegas soon with my two teenage boys, what hotel ‘on strip’ has the best pool and facilities to keep them entertained!
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The best pool is usually cited as Mandalay Bay. The Mirage and the Flamingo also have great pools. The pool at Wynn Las Vegas is great but more geared towards adults.
upguy209 asked on 05/02/05
Hello. Love this site, told multiple people traveling to Vegas to check it out first if they have any questions. I have a few of my own. I’m staying at The Mirage (seems to be a favorite of yours) June 6-June 9, 2005 – Can you tell me what the view is from the “deluxe room” without paying the extra $20 a night for the view room? How high up are the rooms? Also, I’ve read and seen that Mirage had a lot of physical (H2O) pool space, but not a lot of chair space. How early do I really need to be at the pool to get a seat, that won’t be me on the ground with my towel or in some less than stellar spot? I also like to play roulette for fun, any places with low cost/limit that you know of? Last question for now, as far as buffets go, I’m looking for ones that have good food, at a reasonable price at the same time? Breakfast, Dinner….any suggestions? I had friends stay at The Mirage in early April and they didn’t love their “new” buffet, so I’m curious for your comments. Thanks! (sorry if this is a duplicate I had a computer issue)
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! Yes, I do love The Mirage… Even with my recent stay at Wynn Las Vegas, The Mirage is probably my second favorite property. The Mirage offers three views: Volcano, Pool and ‘Sunset’. The latter is mountain/freeway view… I think the ‘Pool’ view is the best, even though the hotel staff seem to favor the volcano view. Regarding the pool, it can get very crowded, yes. If you show up before 9am you should get a pretty good spot. If you’re looking for roulette games for under $5, not many places on the Strip are going to work for you unless you head North to the Stardust or find a spot at Casino Royale. The Mirage, TI and other ‘nice’ resorts offer $5 roulette but not usually in the evenings. Some folks don’t like Cravings, the new Mirage buffet. I thought it was a great upgrade. Other top notch buffets include Wynn Las Vegas, Bellagio and TI’s new buffet.
SOLDSHORT asked on 04/30/05
Hey Hunter, how are the Island Tower Jacuzzi Suites at the Trop? End of May rates seem to be dirt cheap, how much would it run me?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hard to say how much it would run you as depending on where you book, rates vary… The rooms are a bit old but represent an excellent value.
Orlandoguy asked on 04/29/05
Great Website!! I’ll be going to Las Vegas in June. It’s been awhile since I visited and I would like to know which of the Sunday brunches you would recommend. Also, what about the the best steaks? It doesn’t have to be the most expensive or fanciest, I just want a great Steak! Thanks for your advice.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! Brunch at Bellagio and Wynn Las Vegas are excellent but the gold standard is the Sterling Brunch at Ballys. Pricey but pretty amazing. Regarding steaks, I would say the best are at Delmonico (Venetian) or SW (Wynn Las Vegas). Circus Steakhouse is the best value.
sniff asked on 04/29/05
Hi there: do affiliate hotels have access to the bellagio pool. We have are staying at NY Ny but friends will be at Bellagio. Will we be able to use the Bellagio pool? I believe they check for room keys?
Great site btw
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No, you will not be able to use the pool at Bellagio unless you enter with a guest and even then, it is technically against the rules.
Ehrlich777 asked on 04/28/05
If so, is it possible for you to load more pictures of Wynn las Vegas completion, Encore at Wynn las vegas construction and the Palazzo construction?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Wynn photos are here: Wynn on Flickr. Encore construction hasn’t started (starts in the Summer) and Palazzo is just a hole at this point. Little to no concrete has been poured. We will continue coverage of construction as it progresses.
Denise106 asked on 04/27/05
I just love those restaurants where you sit down and think “you wouldn’t find this kind of place anywhere else”… the more fun (and cheesier and theme-ier) the better. We’ve been to the Nascar, Rainforest, Harley Davidson Cafes… any new ones?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As far as ultimate kitsch joints go, you certainly named the top ones in your question. You might include Margaritavilla at the Flamingo or Kahunavilla at TI… Both are part of chains so they aren’t ‘only in Vegas’ type places but they fit the mold.