RateVegas - Las Vegas Reviews and Ratings of Hotels, Casinos, Restaurants and Shows
Your Las Vegas Review Site
What is your question about Las Vegas?
Whether it's gambling tips, choosing the right hotel or finding out what's the hottest club, RateVegas is here to answer all of your questions.
Please review these guidelines before submitting your question.
RateVegas User asked on 01/10/03
i booked a room at treasure island. a petite suite. i was wondering if i should have booked a lesser room and tried to upgrade upon arrival? thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Treasure Island is not a hotel where people have much success with the $20 trick. If you want to stay in a nice room, you are doing the right thing.
RateVegas User asked on 01/09/03
Wondering which strip hotels have mirrored ceilings in their guest rooms. Just Caesars? And do you have to ask at check-in to make sure you get one? Or can you reserve one when you book the room? Thanks! Love your site!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As far as I know, Caesars is the only hotel that still has this in any of their rooms. Yes, if you are interested in this particular style of room, ask for it when you make the reservation. They will not guarantee that you will get it but you will have a much better chance… Sounds like you’re going to have fun.
RateVegas User asked on 01/08/03
My best friend and I were looking at spending a few days in Vegas once we turned 21, and we were looking for advice on how to do it with maybe about $500 each, between gambling, lodging, airfare from chicago, seeing a show or two, and food of course. Obviously, you don’t deal with airfare, but I figure it will be about $200 each round trip. We were looking at the Sahara, due to the fact it seemingly has the best of the cheap hotel/casinos, with $1 tables, which is probably what we’d pay, anywhere else to look?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would also check out the Stratosphere. Further down the Strip but great values. The Stardust has some good deals and downtown is also a good option at the Horseshoe and Four Queens.
RateVegas User asked on 01/08/03
mystere vs o and wyrick v burton
not worried about price, thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Mystere.
Burton.
Though all shows are good.
RateVegas User asked on 01/07/03
I’m headed out in March for my 5 year anniversary. I have comped rooms available at Aladdin. The wife really wants to stay at Venetian. Is it worth the $$?
I also heard I won’t find anything cheaper than a $25 table on the weekends. It will be hard to shell out $600 for rooms and pay $25 hands all weekend.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Personally, I would take the comp and stay at the Aladdin. The Venetian is a nice hotel but I don’t think it is worthy of the inflated room rates that they ask. A resort room or suite at the Aladdin will be just as nice as rooms at the Venetian. See if you can get an upgrade… As far as finding lower limit tables, at the largest properties, weekend limits will usually be around $25 at “prime time”. Aladdin table limits usually range $5-$25 at all times and smaller casinos will almost always have $5 tables available.
RateVegas User asked on 01/03/03
How’s the spa at Bally’s? I stayed there back in 1988 and the spa was just a steamroom, sauna and a couple of whirlpools. Have they renovated/expanded extensively in the past 15 years? It’s important to me to have a great spa, not for massages, but just for lounging around.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It had been expanded, but still pales in comparison to spas at newer properties like the Venetian (one of the very best), Bellagio, and Mandalay Bay. If a great spa is a high priority item for you, check out the Venetian. Canyon Ranch Spa Club is excellent.
RateVegas User asked on 12/25/02
We are coming to Vegas in March 2004 – booked at the Club de Soleil on W. Flamingo. Looking for directions from McCarron and things to do with our son during our stay. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Wow, talk about planning in advance! If you will be renting a car, exit the airport onto Tropicana and make a right on Paradise Road. Take Paradise to Flamingo and make a left. Head over the freeway and to Club de Soleil. As far as things to do with your son, it can depend on the age. There are a lot of roller coasters at resorts like New York New York, Circus Circus, the Sahara and Stratosphere. Hoover Dam isn’t far away by car and the desert offers some great hiking and sightseeing.
RateVegas User asked on 12/20/02
Hi Hunter, I have a few questions. My fiance and I are planning to honeymoon in Vegas next year. We have not yet set a date yet for the wedding (we are planning the wedding around the honeymoon). We would like a nice getaway that will not break the bank. My questions are:
1. Which month between June – Sept is the best month to visit (budget-wise)?
2. We are considering either a Petite Suite at Treasure Island or a Tower Deluxe Room at the Mirage. Any input on these choices would be helpful.
We are not big gamblers, so the Casino options are really not that important to us. Thanks for the advice.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
June – September is one of the more dead periods in Las Vegas… Temperatures in June, July and August are sweltering, easily breaking 100 degrees. Things start to cool down in September. If you don’t mind the heat, anytime in there should be fine. Otherwise, try for the beginning of June or end of September. As far as rooms, the TI Petite Suite is nicer than the Tower Deluxe rooms at the Mirage… Both hotels have outstanding amenities. I would give the Mirage the edge in dining and atmosphere and TI the edge in service and value for your dollar. I’m sure you’ll have a great time! Congratulations.
RateVegas User asked on 12/20/02
Great site, great advice!
We will be in Vegas this weekend and thru Christmas, and going to Mystere on Sunday at 7:30. Where would you recommend we eat after the show? Seems like a lot of nice restaurants close at 10 – 10:30, we don’t want to be rushed thru our meal… Italian, French, steakhouse, we are pretty open.
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Looks like I got to this a little late… Sorry about that… Anyway, for anyone else interested in the answer… My number one pick would be Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian (across from TI). Great eats.
RateVegas User asked on 12/19/02
Do you or Rio have a wedding chapel? We will getting married next August ,there in Vegas. My fiance is a Diamond Card holder.Is there pictures of the chapels or brochures you can mail me? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
For information on the Rio wedding chapel, visit their Web site or call and speak with a wedding coordinator.
RateVegas User asked on 12/18/02
Do you know which dance clubs are open on Wednesday nights? Any comments on the View at Harrahs or Rain at the Palms? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most dance clubs are open Wednesday-Sunday nights at the minimum, some seven days a week. Rain at the Palms is one of the hippest clubs in Las Vegas… Long lines and trendy folk. Don’t hear much about the View at Harrah’s. It’s a smaller place.
RateVegas User asked on 12/15/02
We are visiting next year 7 – 13th October, would you recommend we book in advance as the prices seem quite high, if we book now would we have a problem swopping and changing nearer the time, I want luxury and a good price and am looking at the paris on recommendation but really want to stay at the bellagio. what do you think
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you book from the hotel, you can change your reservation up until about 48 hours from when you arrive, so if you find a cheaper price you can always change it… Most of the hotels have a 48 hour change/cancellation policy on reservations… This usually only applies when you book directly from the hotel, via Web or telephone.
RateVegas User asked on 12/13/02
I want to have my wedding at a las Vegas hotel. Please give me information on this.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This is a fairly vast topic. My best advice would be to visit Las Vegas and create a list of hotels that you like. Speak with the wedding coordinator and from there you can figure out what needs to be done next.
RateVegas User asked on 12/11/02
Hi! I’m going to Vegas for the C.E.S. show. My free time is limited, but I really want to see the Grand Canyon. How long would it take each way by car?
Also, I have a jacuzzi suite booked at the La Quinta Convention Center with a balcony. Do you think I’ll get a good view or should I just book a cheaper room?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It is about a 4-5 hour trip by car… It is an all day trip unless you fly on a helicopter… As far as the view, you may catch some of the Las Vegas lights, but it will be much more limited as the La Quinta is not on the Strip. Have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 12/10/02
Looking to visit Vegas again next month (January). Compared to the UK I’m sure that the temperature will be fine, however, what’s the climate like in Vegas in January? Is town quiet?
Secondly, we’re looking to stay at one of the more luxurious hotels in Vegas. We get the impression that the Venetian, Bellagio & Mandalay Bay are the more luxurious ones (for rooms etc). Budget is fairly flexible, any thoughts on the best hotel rooms/suites in Vegas?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
January is one of Las Vegas’ coldest months. It will be windy and cold at night, sunny but not too warm during the day. No snow, but bring warm clothes… January is one of the more busy convention months, so the town should be fairly busy overall. As far as hotels, I would rate Bellagio as the best overall hotel but if you’re looking for a great hotel with a great deal, get a Tower Suite at the Mirage. A fantastic room at reasonable prices, very plush with all the amenities. If money is truly no object, Penthouse Suites at the Bellagio are second to none.
RateVegas User asked on 12/10/02
WE WERE THINKING OF STAYING AT THE POLO TOWERS FROM 1/23/03 TO 1/28/03. WOULD YOU RECOMMEND STAYING THERE? THANK YOU.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Polo Towers offers a cheaper alternative to other Strip properties. The rooms are clean and well kept, but you don’t have a casino in the property and there isn’t the same level of amenities offered at the bigger hotels. It’s all up to you!
RateVegas User asked on 12/09/02
What would you rate as the best sports books for watchaning the NCAA Tournament?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Bellagio is my number one choice hands down. It is a GREAT room… But if you want a good seat, plan on getting up EARLY and getting down there, because it is popular! The Mirage is also a very nice book, as well as the Las Vegas Hilton.
RateVegas User asked on 12/09/02
Are there such things as “nickel video poker machines” in vegas, and at which casino;s?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes there are and most casinos have them! The more ritzy casinos will have fewer of them installed, but even Bellagio has a few rows of 5 cent slots and video poker.
RateVegas User asked on 12/06/02
Another question for you regarding the Golden Nugget where we are considering staying next year: Do they have an airport check in? I know MGM has it for MGM Grand and NYNY, but what about the other resorts?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
At this time they do not to airport checkin for the Golden Nugget, or for any of the former Mirage Resorts properties (Bellagio, Mirage, TI, Golden Nugget).
RateVegas User asked on 12/03/02
Any brilliant ideas for swinging a rental car upgrade in vegas? I know about the $20 trick at hotels, but what about car rentals at the airport? Any strategies there?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You could try slipping the clerk a tip… Honestly your best bet is probably being a part of the car rental companies travel club, almost all of them have them.
RateVegas User asked on 12/02/02
Were can i obtain alist of all spring slot tournaments?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Many slot tournaments are invitation only, usually to members of the respective slot clubs. Your best bet to finding out about these promotions would be to join the slot clubs at each casino. Other than that, the Las Vegas Advisor has a list that contains several types of gambling tournaments.
RateVegas User asked on 11/27/02
Thanks for a great site! I’ve been to Vegas 8-10 times but always find it helpful to get other opinions. I’m taking my wife to Vegas 12/21-22 for our anniversary. The big event will be a skating event at Mandalay Bay. I’m looking for a really good room. My priorities for this trip are 1) room with jacuzzi tub for two, 2) best chance at excellent service, 3) room with a great view of as much of the strip as possible 4) best chance to upgrade to a better room or get a little something extra since it is our anniversary. We don’t arrive til 10:30pm Friday night so I’m not sure how well I will be able to upgrade “on-the-spot” either with the $20 or since it is our anniversary. It looks like a slow weekend so I’m hoping for something really good. I’ve been looking at Treasure Island, Aladdin (although Resort Vista rooms not available Sat.), or Monte Carlo but I’m up for any ideas. Suggestions? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, that is a slow week. I would suggest tring the following: Luxor Jacuzzi Suite (these are great but don’t offer a great view due to the location of the Luxor), and suite at the Mirage (they have several types that should all take care of your needs), any suite at Treasure Island. I would skip the Monte Carlo, I’ve never been impressed. I hope that helps.
RateVegas User asked on 11/26/02
My husband and I have an opportunity, (pay $99/person, listen to a 90 minute seminar) to go to the Polo Towers for three nights/four days. I see 5 star ratings for it, but how does it compare to the Venetian, Bellagio, etc. for a 10th Wedding Anniversary trip. We don’t want to see or hear children on our trip (other than out on the streets). We also like to use the health clubs available, and like romantic lounges. Will it be a hassle to not walk down to a casino? What are the drawbacks? Talk me into this!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
To be honest with you, the Polo Towers cannot be compared with the Bellagio or the Venetian. Those are both world class resorts that are less than 5 years old. While the Polo Towers does have a health club and a lounge on the top floor, neither will compare with the range of amenities offered at a large megaresort like Bellagio or the Venetian. I don’t mean to knock Polo Towers. It fits a specific visitor profile and from what I have seen the rooms are clean and nice… I suspect that if you are going to choose the Polo Towers and expect Bellagio, you will be disappointed… That doesn’t mean that you can’t visit these other properties, but it is not the same thing as staying there. I hope this helps… If you are looking for megaresorts that offer good deals, I would check out the following properties: Treasure Island, Aladdin, Ballys, Mirage, Harrahs, and Luxor. Congratulations on your 10 years!
RateVegas User asked on 11/26/02
Hunter,
Having gone to Vegas for the first time this past September, and loving it, I look forward to returning sometime in the future. I’m curious to know what the future holds for the Strip, though. I mean, they’re now building the Four Seasons at the southernmost end of the Strip. Is there a long-range development plan for the Strip area, or is it likely to remain much like it is today, with the exception of current hotel renovations and the such??? Thanks….
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Following construction in Las Vegas has become a bit of a hobby for me. It’s a lot of fun to watch what is going up. Most of the Strip resort corridor is zoned for casino/hotels. Here’s what is currently on the drawing board:
1. Mandalay Bay Conference Center – What you actually saw under construction was the addition of a huge convention center at Mandalay Bay. The Four Seasons has been open at Mandalay Bay since 1999. The convention center is set to open next year.
2. Le Reve – Opening April 2005 on the site for the former Desert Inn, groundbreaking just took place this month. This resort is being built by Steve Wynn, the man responsible for the Mirage, Bellagio, and Treasure Island. His plans are still very much under wraps, but will include a man made mountain 8 stories high, a lake, a 18 hole championship golf course, a Ferrari and Maseratti dealership, and other amazing amenities. Le Reve will be the new magnet for Las Vegas tourism as the Bellagio was when it opened.
2. Caesars Palace – Caesars has been working on several projects. The Coliseum project that will house a new show by Celene Dion will be complete early next year. They are also talking about building a new hotel tower on the corner of Las Vegas Blvd. and Flamingo. The space is currently being developed into a parking garage.
3. Mandalay Bay Tower – Mandalay is adding a new all suite tower in the rear of the property. Work has begun and should be complete at the start of 2004.
4. Bellagio Spa Tower – They are adding a new all suite tower at Bellagio. Work has not yet started but should be complete mid-2004.
5. Venetian Tower – They are adding a new 1000 room tower at the Venetian, atop the parking garage. To be completed 2003.
Other than that, there are several projects on the drawing board. Namely ‘City by the Sea’, a San Francisco themed resort on the site of the New Frontier, across from the Le Reve site. This has yet to be financed. So, the answer to the question is NO. The Strip is still expanding, though not at the furious pace it did during the 1990’s. I would expect a lot of redevelopment in the North Strip area, after Le Reve opens. Resorts like the Stardust, Riviera and Sahara may have their days numbered in their current form… It will be interesting to watch it all unfold.
RateVegas User asked on 11/25/02
My husband and I are going to vegas for the first time Dec 26-29 2002, and are staying at the Mirage any pointers you can give us on the hotel or about Vegas in general….Also we got tickets for Penn and Teller is there a seating chart available for the samba theatre at the Rio?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Be prepared to have a great time! The Mirage is quickly becoming my favorite place to stay when I visit Las Vegas… It will be fairly busy in Las Vegas at that time, gearing up for New Years. Since I’m not really sure where your interests lie (gambling, sightseeing, eating, shopping, golf, etc…) it’s hard to recommend specific things… Don’t miss a performance of the Fountains of Bellagio, in the lake in front of the hotel. It’s a free attraction that is best seen at night. Plan on doing a fair amount of walking to see everything, so bring comfortable shoes. Also, it is cold in the desert in December. Bring some warm clothes. If you’re looking for a quick bite at any hour, try the Caribe Cafe in the hotel. Some good coffee shop type food open 24 hours. Other than that, I would encourage you to surf around the site and check out some of the pictures and comments left by other users… That should give you some good insight. As far as a seating chart for the Samba Theater, I was unable to find one online. A call to the Rio revealed that they are willing to fax you one if you have access to a fax machine. Have a great time!!
RateVegas User asked on 11/21/02
We just returned from a stay at Mandalay Bay. A couple of comments – $20 trick didn’t work this time. Balcony seats at O are not great. The pool at MB is way too cold to actually swim in, even if they say they heat it. We like Mystere better for its intimate atmosphere compared to O. We found $5 minimum tables everywhere, MB, Bellagio, and Paris, but drink service and friendliness were better at The Orleans, off strip.
Here’s my question – when you give your luggage to the bell hop, they make it clear that they will not be the person delivering the baggage. I know they want their tip, but I save the tip for the person that actually brings the bags. What’s edicate dictate? And amounts? Same on pick up, do we tip the person that picks them up or the guy that puts them in our trunk? And valet – drop off or pick up? How much? I’ll take any other “tips” (haha) you can give me! And although I don’t mind tipping for service, I don’t want to give money to every warm body with their hand out in Vegas!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Usually you give your tips to the person who delivers your bags to your room. The average tip is $1 per bag, but perhaps more if you have a very heavy or bulky bag. As far as valets, most people tip when picking up, between $2 and $5. Some folks like to tip when they drop their car off, as the valet staff usually don’t bury the car in this instance. If you tip when you drop off, you don’t need to tip again when you pick up. In some cases, all of these people pool their tips.
RateVegas User asked on 11/20/02
I’ve been to Las Vegas four times now, staying on the strip everytime. I’d like to try another area. The main things I look for in hotel are; decent rooms, good restaurants and a good-sized casino. Which non-strip hotels do you recommend for me? Thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Depending on how close you want to be to the Strip, I’d suggest several. If you like to be close to the Strip, give the Palms or the Rio a try. If being further from the Strip doesn’t bother you, Green Valley Ranch in Henderson is a great bet.
RateVegas User asked on 11/20/02
directions to Hyatt at Lake Las Vegus, Please
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Since you didn’t specify, I’m going to assume from the Strip:
I15 North to US93 S towards Henderson
Exit Lake Mead Drive and follow the sign for downtown Henderson
Left on Lake Mead Drive
Left on Lake Las Vegas Parkway
Right into the resort.
RateVegas User asked on 11/19/02
I will be at the IAFE convention – Dec. 1-5, with reservations from November 29 through the 4th.
I need a package shipped to me on November 29 or 30th.
What designation shall I put on the package so it will be waiting for me to call for it? It is NOT part of the IAFE Trade Show exhibit booth stuff – this is a package of signs for our Hospitality Suite – #360 – National Independent Concessionaires Association?
thank you
Sharon Schrock
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Your best bet is to call the business services department at your hotel and ask them. They should be able to give you specific instructions on the addressing that you’ll need to make sure you get the package.
RateVegas User asked on 11/18/02
Thanks for the answer to my last question guys! Next question. What hotel has the best standard room? I hear the Aladdin standards are pretty nice! What do you think?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Standard rooms at the Aladdin are very nice. Spacious and well appointed. Also, the standard rooms at TI are great for the price.
RateVegas User asked on 11/18/02
once again i have a chance to ask this questions.In june we won the slot tournment first place / It was very exciteing for us pictures were taken and our slot host gerry green said they would send them to us, It is now November .We have called many times and nothing has happened just the usual we will send them. I realize that we are not the high rollers but wouldnt you think that we would be treated the same as any one else? This has been a very discourageing experience expecially for me pat because it has been my first time in vegas. could you at least show some kind of acknowledgement to this e mail.We were planning on comeing back in jan. thank you once again for your time in this matter
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
When we were discussing this previously I suggested you write a letter to the casino host and copy the casino director and hotel president. Did you do this? What was the response? I still think that is the best course of action when trying to resolve these types of issues.
RateVegas User asked on 11/16/02
I’m planning another trip to Vegas next year, and would like to stay downtown for a few days this time. I want to stay at The Golden Nugget for sure. I heard the North tower is a little nicer, but is it worth paying any extra for? For the other part on the strip we will probably stay at Ballys, Paris, Treasure Island or Monte Carlo depending on the deals.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not really, no. The differences are truly minor. The North tower is closer the casino, if that matters to you.
RateVegas User asked on 11/16/02
What is this 20 dollar trick I am reading in the Q&A section.
Thanks Hunter
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You should see a link at the top of this page with a link to the FAQ.
RateVegas User asked on 11/13/02
Hi Hunter, have you ever eaten at the Orleans French Market Buffet? I have seen only one inquiry about this hotel, and think it deserves a little more attention for those who don’t mind staying a short distance from the Strip, or just simply want to go to a great buffet. The food is wonderful, there are no lines, and the dessert array is hard to beat. And the price is beyond reasonable. Also, coupons can be had for 2 for 1, which makes it that much more worthwhile (how bout $6.00 total for breakfast for 2 w/ coupon and 7 cooking stations to choose from?). And the hotel rooms are nicely maintained and well-sized, plus they have recently added a new tower. We recently stayed there when they offered 39.00/night and 59.00 on the weekend. They have a great casino too. Anyway, The Fiesta (Henderson) had a huge buffet, no wonder the locals rave over it, it runs between 9.99 and 10.99 (T-bone night)!! Very good! Yes, I do have a question for you! In your opinion, for the price, which hotel offers the best prime rib dinner sans the buffet? What’s your take between the Cortez Room (I have eaten there, yum) and Sir Galahad’s (have not)? I have heard that Broiler in the Boulder Station Hotel is an excellent choice for steak, but do they serve prime rib? They average 26.00 pp which is extremely reasonable. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
There are many off-Strip casino restaurants that deserve more attention than they get… Our readership seem to be primarily focused on the Strip, though there are some great things lurking off the beaten path. My experience is that once folks have been to Vegas a few times, they usually start to try some of these places like the Orleans, the Palms, Fiesta(s), Station casinos, etc…
As far as your question goes, I am somewhat biased against anything inside the designer-must-have-been-on-acid Excalibur :-). That aside, I have heard that they do serve some good cuts of meat, especially for the prices. I would suggest also trying the Circus Circus Steakhouse for some great prime rib (and other steaks). Very reasonable prices and great food.
RateVegas User asked on 11/13/02
Hey, great site guys! Very informative and realistic; it’s helpful to get both negative and positive feedback on hotels etc. On to my question…. I go to Vegas with the guys all the time but in a few weeks I’m taking my first trip with my girlfriend. Thankfully, we’re just going for one night. We’ll be staying at MGM and I have tickets for Mystere at 10:00pm on Friday. I need some suggestions for a place to have dinner before the show. Nothing too extravagant; I’m looking to spend around $100 for dinner only(no drinks, I’m sure I’ll be plastered enough from my traditional mid-day watering at O’Sheas. Trashy yes, but Vegas tradition nonetheless) The problem is, my girlfriend hates seafood and every semi-upscale restaurant on the strip seems to have a menu that’s dominated by seafood. In years past I would have gone to the Brown Derby but it’s lamentably closed. Any suggestions for a classy dinner that she’ll be able to enjoy without being too limited in her selection? Thanks for your help!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thank you! If you’re going to forgo the drinks, you can get a nice meal at one of several restaurants… I would suggest checking out the following places: Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian (~$30 entrees), Olio (Italian at MGM Grand, $25 entrees), or perhaps Kokomo’s at the Mirage ($30 entrees). All of the places above are “nice” and should provide you with some choices. I would suggest making reservations for a Friday meal…
RateVegas User asked on 11/12/02
Hello – nice site you have… lots of info… thanks.
My girlfriend and I are visiting Vegas in the last week of November – staying at Stardust… I’ve heard good and badd about this hotel.. I booked a tower room online (didnt specify east or west… tell me about this hotel – the horror stories i hear about no hot water, and rooms with bad odor.. put my fears to rest – say it aint so :(
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! I wouldn’t worry about the Stardust. Boyd Gaming (the owners of the property) have done a great job keeping it up over the years. Granted, it is one of the older joints on the Strip. I’m sure you’ll have a great time!
RateVegas User asked on 11/11/02
looking for hotel for 5 year anniversary. prefer the strip. looking for good combination of room, pool, and nice bathroom. are there any web sites to get promotional codes for hotels. was told about a la times columnist. thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The LA Times does have a Sunday advertising supplement that features special Las Vegas rates. This is in the paper every week. Another great way to get promo codes is to sign up for mailing lists on the hotel’s Web site… As far as locations for your anniverysary party, try this: Bellagio, Mirage (go for a petite or tower suite), Treasure Island (petite suite), or Paris (P room). Have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 11/11/02
Any casinos in Las Vegas that are smoke free?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No, there are no smoke free casinos in Las Vegas. Many features some smoke free table games, and you will see the markers indicating it as such… Also, all of the newer casinos (less than 15 years old) have excellent ventiliation systems that clear the air of smoke…
RateVegas User asked on 11/07/02
is Gladyce Knight appearing any where
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, she has a show at the Flamingo five nights a week.
RateVegas User asked on 11/07/02
I’m staying at Harrahs on an upcoming trip to Vegas and i’d like to learn how to play Craps. Should I try there, or do you know of a better place? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Harrah’s is a good place to learn as any. They have friendly dealers in their dice pit… My suggestion to someone just starting out is to get some play time in early in the morning. The table will be much less full and the dealers will be able to spend more time helping you. Also, most casinos offer craps lessons at several points during the week. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and have fun. IMHO, craps is the best game in the casino!
RateVegas User asked on 11/07/02
HAVE YOU ANY SUGESTIONS FOR A 21st BIRTHDAY.I WILL BE STAYING WITH EIGHT COLLEGE FRIENDS. WE NEED A CHEAP PLACE TO STAY. MY PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS (50th wedding annivesay on the same day) THEY ARE STAYING AT THE ALLADIN . MY PARENTS WANT TO TAKE US OUT FOR DINNER WHERE SHALL WE GO? WE ARE GOING NOV 15 TO 17Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Depending on how many rooms you’ll need (at least 2), you probably have several options… Now the problem is that that weekend precedes COMDEX, one of the bigger conventions in Las Vegas… I would suggest trying the following places for a deal: Tropicana, Excalibur, Flamingo, and Harrahs. That will put you in a good location… As far as a good place for dinner… If you are going high end, try Delmonico Steakhouse at the Venetian. If you want something a little more mid-range, give the Venetian’s Grand Lux Cafe a try. Have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 11/06/02
Who is playing at the MGM Grand for New Year’s eve?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They don’t have a show in the Arena for that evening announced at this time, though they do have Neil Diamond a few nights preceding… They also have a David Copperfield show in their smaller theater on 12/30.
RateVegas User asked on 11/05/02
Sorry Hunter, didnt include this in my last question. Does it make sense to stay at Imperial Palace for 2 nites (32 for 2 nites) and go to a more luxurious hotel for the third nite? thanks a bundle.
jordan
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I know several people who like to do this sort of thing… It gives you a taste of the real good stuff without breaking the bank. The only downside is actually making the move, but for most that shouldn’t be a huge deal.
RateVegas User asked on 11/05/02
I must admit, this is the best site out there for REAL opinions and answers to questions about vegas. Good work! I’m planning a trip from jan 1 – 4. i was researching pricing for hotels and where to find the best deals. I’ve found that going to the actual websites of the hotels gives the best deals. There are a lot of vacation planning sites out there as well in which i found more expensive pricing. Am I looking at the right places? or is there somewhere else i should go? I want to get the best bang for the buck. basically somewhere on the strip and some nice features. The best price i found right now is at the Imperial Palace. They are offering $32 for the first nite, free the second nite and $59 for the third nite. I’m sure that there are plenty of places nicer than Imperial Palace, but I dont know if i can find a better deal than that. Also, i heard that it doesnt matter where you stay because you can use other hotel’s facilities and they wont care. IS this true?
Thanks for your help. It is greatly appreciated.
jordan
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks very much.
The actual hotel Web sites have gotten very competitive with fares compared the travel sites. That is a fine place to make your booking…
The Imperial Palace is a now frills hotel in a great location. It is not as nice, shiny and new as some of the other resorts, but it does offer a good value. As far as using the facilities at other hotels, this depends on what you mean. Most hotels restrict their pools to guests only. The casinos themselves are open to the public and most of the hotels will sell the extra services (shows, food, etc…) to anyone. There are some exceptions, like spa services. Some hotels don’t allow non-guests to make appointments. I hope this helps.
RateVegas User asked on 11/03/02
DO YOU HAVE TO DRESS UP TO GO TO THE RANGE STEAKHOUSE IN HARRAH’S
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You could get by with being only slightly dressy… Meaning no jeans, ripped clothes, shorts…
RateVegas User asked on 11/02/02
We are staying at the Aladdin on our upcoming trip. Do you know if the $20 trick will work there? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s a very imperfect science based on many factors… Give the $20 Trick FAQ (linked above) a read…
RateVegas User asked on 11/02/02
I was wondering your opinion of the Westward Ho. Does the $20.00 trick work there?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Westward Ho is no frills lodging, similar to a Motel 6. If that is what you are looking for, you should be fine there… In the area you could also try the Stardust, Circus Circus and the Sahara… For more info on the $20 trick, read the FAQ linked above.
RateVegas User asked on 10/30/02
What non-union hotels are there in Las Vegas?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
There are very few left that are non-union. I have put in a query to the local unions, as this stuff changes often. I know that both the Venetian and the Aladdin are non-union properties. Most major Strip properties are union based.
RateVegas User asked on 10/29/02
does monte carlo hotel and casino rent tux’s and wedding dresses?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The wedding coordinator there can put you in contact with the appropriate folks.
RateVegas User asked on 10/29/02
My wife and I are headed off to vegas this weekend for our 10th anniversary. We are booked at New York New York. Can you give me an idea of what to expect? We moved to NYNY from Excalibur since I’ve heard so many horror stories about Excalibur. How is NYNY on comps? any specific luck with the $20 trick there?
Thanks, and I love the site. Great job!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
NYNY has both good and bad points in my opinion. The casino is always very lively and full of folks. They have all the popular games, with odds similar to other major Strip casinos. The location is excellent. The restaurants in the hotel are not the best, but you have easy access to all of the restaurants at the MGM Grand across the street and any of the other hotels in the vicinity. NYNY can be good on comps depending on your levels of play and the games you’re playing. Unlike some other resorts, they still offer a “casino rate” room, attainable by mere mortals. Good luck with the $20 trick, but I doubt it will get you much at this joint… Moving from the Excalibur was a good call… NYNY is a much more pleasant, adult experience… And have fun! I might see you around town, I’ll be there this weekend as well!