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roxabel asked on 03/06/03
what swiming pools can I swim in without staying in their casino hotel?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Legitimately? None that I know of. There are a few you could probably sneak into… The Flamingo is known for this… The very best pools (Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Mirage) are notoriously impossible to sneak into.
gratianus asked on 02/22/03
Hotels like airlines are in the yield management business with a product that is worthless after a flight takes off or a new day dawns. Is there any optimum time to go shopping for bargains in room rates to take advantage of when hotels decide it’s better to get something instead of nothing for a room that won’t be occupied? We’re coming to LV 5/13-15 (Tue-Th nights), and need two rooms. I’ve thought of low-balling on Priceline, where I understand that midweek nights have been going as low as $79 per room.
Also, if I can ask a second question, how rampant has the 3:2 payoff for a natural become in town? Is there any recognition by casual gamblers that they are getting ripped off?
Thanks for your advice, and good luck with your site.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You are correct that the room is useless once a new day dawns… The problem with applying this logic to Las Vegas is that it is a city that commonly runs upwards of 97% occupancy, meaning there are not that many free rooms. I am sure that you could somehow work vacancy to your advantage but the problem is that it is not an exact science and each hotel will treat each situation differently. I usually book in advance at the prevailing rate and then check back weekly to see if I can change my reservation for a better deal. As far as the 3:2 situation goes, it does seem to be spreading. I think that there are unfortunately a lot of people out there that don’t understand (or at least don’t apply) basic math skills when it comes to gambling and thus are taken for a ride… Most places still offer a 3:2 paying game, but in some cases non in single or double deck, only from the shoe.
gratianus asked on 02/22/03
This is a follow up to my last question about playing the capacity game for hotel rooms. First off, I am concerned that the 6:5 payoff (for some reason I substituted the proper 3:2 when I should have written 6:5) for a natural is disappearing from non-shoe games, since I’m not talented or practiced enough to play well with shoes. Is this trend in full force not only on the Strip but downtown and in the outlying locals clubs as well?
But back to the room game. I don’t expect to fine tune the art of room deals (though consistently bidding for a 5 star location on Priceline effectively means that you are bidding for the Venetian), but there is at least a rhythm to midweek demand in LV, and I just want to be in synch with it. The period just before xmas has always been the cheapest. What about other seasonal lulls that prompt hotels to drop their rates to keep the beds (and the casinos) full?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I am convinced that some casinos will always offer non-shoe 3:2 games. The smart players will demand it… You may have to seek it out, but it will exist. I have seen it a couple of places downtown… It is spreading, no doubt about it… Still, there will always be good games if you know where to look. As far as the room thing goes, yes you are correct… To be very general, the Summer is usually a great time to find deals, since it is so hot. November through February is usually pretty tough due to conventions, though there are some times for deals (like the week before Christmas and the week after New Years)… November and January have two of the biggest conventions in Vegas (COMDEX and CES). Spring brings NAB and a few other biggies… Keep checking and you’ll find some good rates.
RateVegas User asked on 02/18/03
Hunter, I would love the answers to some questions if I may. The first is do you have any recommedations for a steakhouse that won’t break the bank? I have looked at The Steakhouse at Circus Circus, Bally’s Steakhouse, The Range at Harrah’s, but none give any idea of price. We are happy paying up to 25.00 or so per person for an entree. How far in advance should we make reservations? We are staying there from March 4-10. Also, is there no more Brown Derby at the MGM, couldnt find it on their site? The last question is, best Sunday brunch buffets that arent too expensive (we do not eat seafood) and maybe have carved prime rib. Thanks in advance.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
A great steakhouse with reasonable prices is the Steakhouse at Circus Circus. If I recall, it was about $25 per person and that included a great cut of meat as well as soup and salad. I would make reservations about 10 days in advance just to make sure everything is taken care of. The Brown Derby at the MGM Grand has closed, yes. Most buffets on the Strip will have prime rib at their buffet on the weekends… They also usually jack up their prices for the weekend as well… Bellagio is great but it is pretty expensive. Maybe give the Mirage buffet a try. Great food, lower prices.
RateVegas User asked on 02/16/03
I will be staying at the MGM, and was wondering what transportation to take from the airport. I heard the cabbies all rip you off. Any advice would be appreciated.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Some rip you off, some do not. I usually take a cab. The ride to the MGM is short, it shouldn’t be expensive. When you get in the cab, tell them not to take the “tunnel”. That route is what most crooked cabbies use to inflate fares.
RateVegas User asked on 02/16/03
We are getting married in March in Vegas…my brother and three of his friends are driving out there but they are only 20 years old. Do you have to be 21 to book hotels in Vegas??? Any suggestions on where they can stay? (for about $50 a night)
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Some hotels will allow guests that are 18 but most require that you are 21. The gaming areas and bars are all 21 and up… That said, I was never denied lodging based on age when I would stay in Las Vegas before I was 21. As long as you have a credit card, they will take you. For rooms in the $50 range on a weekend, you should try the Stardust, Riveria, Circus Circus or Stratosphere.
RateVegas User asked on 02/14/03
Fabulous information thank you! We are sisters escaping to(hopefully) sunshine with our ten year old daughters, who love to swim and shop. Vegas seemed the warmest, closest and cheapest vacation option from Seattle…we don’t even care about the casinos..What resorts have the best amenities for kids in a central location? This is such a splurge for us…
Thanks so much
Penelope
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The most kid-friendly hotel/casinos seem to be Excalibur, Treasure Island, Circus Circus and the MGM Grand. I don’t usually recommend Excalibur or Circus Circus to people but I can recommend TI… Both TI and MGM Grand have good locations near some good shopping… You might also try the Aladdin, which has a large mall. The pool at Treasure Island isn’t anything to write home about… Mandalay Bay has by far the best pool but is not centrally located… As you can see, there are many choices. Hope this helps!
RateVegas User asked on 02/14/03
We are making a trip to LV for our wedding/honeymoon. I have found a perfect ceremony in the Little White chapel, but I can’t decide on accommodation. I would really like a strip hotel with view and jacuzzi. Doesn’t everyone? But which hotel would you suggest as best value? Unfortunately we are on a budget.
Also, we hope to come over in September. Would there be a better time for special deals? I’m hoping there aren’t any US holidays in Sept.
Thanks for your help. Glad I found this fantastic site.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
We have a holiday called Labor Day in the first week of September. Other than that you can usually find some good deals in September and you usually have GREAT weather. One of my favorite times of year in Las Vegas… As far as reasonably priced hotels with good views and jacuzzis… Luxor has a nice jacuzzi suite but the views are pretty limited to Mandalay Bay and the airport… The Aladdin has very large bath tubs (not jacuzzis but very large) and you can find some great deals there…
RateVegas User asked on 02/11/03
I’ll be in Las Vegas On Memorial Day weekend and i am interested i going to the Celine Dion Show. Where would i buy tickets for the show? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As far as I know TicketMaster is selling tickets at http://www.ticketmaster.com.
RateVegas User asked on 02/11/03
Going to Las Vegas next month as part of a family road trip and will be traveling with our dog Elle.Do you have any suggestions on a dog friendly hotel or resort.
Thank you Dallas
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This is a tough one… As far as I know, none of the casino-hotels allow pets except for seeing eye dogs. Some places like Travelodge might allow pets.
RateVegas User asked on 02/10/03
Hi! This site is great! I am going to be staying at the Hawthorn Suites in May, I was wondering if any of the rooms there have a better view. We choose it because we want to be with another couple, is this a nice place? If there are better rooms, will the $20 trick work in a place like that? Two more.. Is Mac King a good afternoon show, and is how is CLub RIo? Thanks man!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! Hawthorn Suites are clean, spacious rooms. They do have some rooms that are more oriented towards the Strip. I would ask for a ‘Strip view’ and see if they can help you out… I doubt you’ll find the $20 trick doing much at non-casino/hotels… I haven’t been to Mac King myself but I have heard that it is a good show… Club Rio used to be a hot spot and still does get busy but the foot traffic has moved to Rain at the Palms.
RateVegas User asked on 02/10/03
Hi: My wife and I stay on the strip 2-3 times a year, so we are fairly familiar with its hotels. However we will be staying at Ballys next month for the 1st time in 4 years (a lifetime considering all the changes there). I know they have remodeled and added rooms in that time. We are older than you’re average writer asking for advise (50) and value a nice room that offers peace and quiet above all else. Having not been to Bally’s in a while we do not know in which part of the hotel to request a room. We would welcome any input. We will also be renting a car and going to Laughlin for the 1st time and would appreciate any info regarding activities there. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I stayed at Ballys recently and was in the North Tower, facing Flamingo Road. The room was very loud, mostly from emergency vehicles using Flamingo to get around. I would recommend the South Tower… It is closer to the casino and further from the street. You can get a nice view of Paris… As far as Laughlin goes, I am really not an expert there so I can’t give much advice.
RateVegas User asked on 02/07/03
Hello ! We are staying at MGM in June, and recently stayed at their sister hotel the Treasure Island and will be our 2nd time to Las Vegas. The travel agent booked our room in the Emrald Tower, and we are not finding very good reviews on it. Where even is the Emrald Tower? If it is not the big green building? Also, what is your opinion on the Emrlad Tower? Should we get an upgrade, if so how? and what would it take? I need of desperate help! Thanks, Adam
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The “big green building” contains both the “Emerald” and “Grand” towers. The Emerald Tower actually used to be the old Marina hotel. When they built the MGM Grand, they built around the Marina, incorporating it into the structure. It is the part of the hotel that juts out toward the Strip. The main difference between the two parts of the hotel is that the Emerald Tower rooms are smaller… The Grand tower rooms are a little bit nicer and often times you can upgrade easily by asking upon check-in.
RateVegas User asked on 02/05/03
Will be visiting Vegas with another couple, March 4 – 7 2003. Need to settle on accommodations. Harrah’s, Luxor, TI, Monte Carlo and RIO seem appealing & are offered in our price range. The other couple would like the ambiance of the Bellagio or Venetian, but i won’t spend that kind of money. Any suggestions?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would go for Treasure Island or perhaps the Luxor… Have you considered the Mirage? It offers much of the Bellagio’s class for a lot less money.
RateVegas User asked on 02/05/03
How does the MGM Grand – Grand Tower compare to most other hotels on the strip.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Grand Tower is the superior part of the hotel (except for the Mansion!)… It is a mid-range room that is clean and nicely furnished.
RateVegas User asked on 02/04/03
We are planning a trip to Vegas and are staying at the Rio. What is the costs to use the Rio wedding chapel for your guests?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You’ll need to call the Rio and talk with the wedding coordinator. There are many variables.
RateVegas User asked on 02/04/03
We Are thinking of getting a jacuzzi suite at the Lady Luck.We’ve stayed in a standard room at TI the last 4 times out there.Will we be dissapointed with the difference of hotels.We kinda wanted to go cheap this time but also wanted to try a suite.And stay downtown.The price for the suite Sun-Thurs. was 95 per night.Good or bad deal?thanks for your input,Love the site
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
That sounds like a fairly good deal, depending on what time of year… Anyway, staying downtown at the Lady Luck will be a different experience… Things on the Strip are newer and flashier… The Lady Luck is clean but not luxurious. That said, it is a fine hotel and I’m sure you’ll have a nice time.
RateVegas User asked on 02/03/03
I’ll be in Vegas the weekend of March 1st. Do you know of any sportsbooks showing the Ruiz V. Jones fight?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would guess they will all show it.
RateVegas User asked on 02/03/03
Do you (or any of your readers?!?) know anything about the Jacuzzi Rooms at the Excalibur? I fully understand that the Excalibur is a great place for families, but I have the chance to get a Jacuzzi Room there for only $89, and from past experience at NY NY, Caesars and Luxor, a Jacuzzi in the room not only is relaxing, but also helps me to spend LESS money in the casino! Any word on whether these rooms at Excalibur are somewhat nice? :) Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They are a step up from the standard rooms at Excalibur but not as nice as the jacuzzi suites at any of the other hotels you mentioned… But, if the price is right…
RateVegas User asked on 02/02/03
situation: 4 guys all 21 buy just a month and will be arriving on my Bday on thursday march 27 and there thru sunday.
Questions:
1)where to stay.we don’t care about the rooms but we wouldn’t mind a pool full of nice looking ladies should we go with the cheap imperial or is it worth the extra for mgm or belagio?ps does the have you heard of the $20 trick working at the imperial?
2)can i get anything from one of the nice clubs (RA, Rum jungle, studio 54 or beaches)for celebrating my bday there.
3)so i go to the clubs and am dressed to impress is there a chance i wont get in cause of age or whatever besides being a huge line
4)is there a good club where mostly locals go and not tourists.
5)is $200 a day a good budget for a decent time.(we will be eating cheap just spending on cover charge,drinks and gambling?
6)is there any trick to skipping the line at the club?or getting VIP?
7)tell me the best way to spend my 21st bday?
hey, thanks for your time and sorry about having so many questions hope you get to them all.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I probably wouldn’t recommend the Bellagio for you guys. Check out Treasure Island or the Mirage… Perhaps Caesars Palace… The $20 trick sometimes works at the Imperial Palace… Not always. I doubt the clubs/bars are going to be nice to you because it is your birthday… Never hurts to ask though… I would suspect you’ll get into any club you want as long as you are willing to wait in the lines, which sometimes get long. There are clubs in the locals casinos but honestly, you probably want to stick to clubs on the Strip. Try Club Utopia for one that is not in a casino. You should be able to have a good time on $200 a day… I hope you have a great time… Check out Jack’s Velvet Lounge at the Venetian. Cool bar to have a few (lots) of drinks. I spent my 21st in Vegas and I had a blast. I’m sure you will too.
RateVegas User asked on 01/31/03
what are the anmenitiers in the rooms,example. hair dryers ironing boards i am planning trip ion marchand staying at mgm grand and need to know what to bring
thanks leslie
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Some of the rooms have hair dryers and ironing boards… Check with the hotel to be sure that the room type you are in has what you need.
RateVegas User asked on 01/31/03
I love your site and have found it really useful for planning my forthcoming trip. I understand that things are fairly hot in Las Vegas regarding ID and I might be asked for it.I don’t drive and so don’t have a drivers license and don’t want to carry my passport around with me all day – so what other forms of ID will be acceptable?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Usually they will take state ID or drivers license, passport, military ID and that is about it… You’ll probably be stuck carrying your passport.
RateVegas User asked on 01/29/03
Do the rooms at the Four Queens have hair dryers?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No, sorry.
RateVegas User asked on 01/27/03
We’re booked into a Honeymoon Suite at the Manadalay Bay in March. When I booked by phone the receptionist said that “most of the Honeymoon Suites have a pool view” which at the time sounded good so I said O.K. However, having read comments on your sites and some others I’m now wondering whether a strip view might be a better option. I’ve tried to work out the geometry of MB by looking at photos but I’m struggling! So, a few questions:
(1) Is a pool view good and what else can you see?
(2) All are strip views good strip views?
(3) Is the other option an airport view??
(4) If I choose to change my preference should I let them know now or just wait till we arrive.
Thanks,
Peter.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The views at Mandalay Bay can be tricky… Not all the pool views are great… Some give you quite a bit of airport view… I prefer the Strip view… I would want to be looking North up the Strip… The way the tower is oriented, the Northern views are either dead on to the Strip or a combined Strip/airport view… I would let them know before you arrive… While they probably won’t guarantee a certain view, having it in the computer can’t hurt.
RateVegas User asked on 01/27/03
Hi
My wife and I have booked to stay in Las Vegas for 2 weeks in August 2003 at the Monte Carlo can you give me some info about the Hotel, rooms,etc. (does the 20 dollar trick work here?)
Also what are the best sights/shows to see ect
thanks Pete
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The $20 trick does work here sometimes… Depends on many factors… You will be at the Monte Carlo for two whole weeks? Have you thought about maybe breaking your trip up into segments and staying at different hotels? It could be kinda fun… My favorite shows are O, Mystere, Danny Gans, Blue Man Group and Lance Burton… Don’t miss the Fountains of Bellagio, the Mirage volcano and the TI pirate show. Make sure you go downtown and experience “old school” Vegas.
RateVegas User asked on 01/27/03
i will be in vegas in march staying at the mgm was really excited about it but the reports about the emerald rooms are not that clever ive been twice before staying at circus circus and imperial palace how would you rate them against mgm ..great site you have..bill. from england
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The MGM Grand is a lot nicer than Circus Circus and the Imperial Palace… The emerald tower rooms are older and smaller, but they have been refurbished and are clean and nice. I’m sure you’ll have a great time.
RateVegas User asked on 01/27/03
Great site!! Any suggestions on a bachelor party for 15 guys in April or May. Looking for the best deals like everyone else. A suggestion of April or May would be helpful as well as a casino on the strip that’s tolerant of a group of guys.
thanks much
dave
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! Check out the MGM Grand, Luxor, Mandalay Bay and also the Mirage. All can offer a good time and should be very tolerant of bachelor parties… I think May is probably one of the nicest times of year in Vegas for weather.
RateVegas User asked on 01/26/03
can you tell me what the weather will be like in February?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Pretty cold at night… Not that hot during the day. Bring some warm clothes…
RateVegas User asked on 01/24/03
I’ve been going nuts trying to find the recipe for Steve Wynn’s mothers’ bread pudding recipe.. Any help is appreciated!!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, it is here on the site somewhere…
Here it is again:
Mirage Resorts buffets (Bellagio, Mirage, Treasure Island, and Golden Nugget) are famous for the bread pudding. The rumor is that it was Steve Wynn’s mothers’ recipie… Anyhow, I did see a posting that gave the instructions as below:
Serves 12 Yeild One 10″ × 12″ Pan
16oz Half and Half
8oz Wipping Cream
8 Fresh Eggs
1 1/4 cups Sugar
1/4 tsp. Vanilla Flavor
4 1/2 slices White Bread
1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder
1 tsp Sugar
2 Tbl Raisins
Mix Well: Half and Half, wipping cream, eggs, sugar and vanilla. Arrange bread
on bottom of pan. Pour mix over bread. Mix 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon with 1
teaspoon sugar and sprinkle over bread. Spread raisins over top. Cover with
foil and bake in water bath at 400 degrees for 75 – 90 minutes.
RateVegas User asked on 01/24/03
My husband and I will be visiting Vegas feb 14-19 and staying at the Las Vegas Club this is out 17th Anniversary. What do you think our chances are of a room upgrade – we have booked a standard room in he North Tower.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It is hard to guess. Your best bet is to just go for it…
RateVegas User asked on 01/23/03
Is their a good place to play slots that you have a chance for a regular pay out? What are the places to stay away from if you play slots?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not really. Off-Strip and downtown properties tend to have higher payouts, but it is all chance… If you are a die hard slot player, check out the locals casinos and off-Strip places like the Palms.
RateVegas User asked on 01/22/03
We are planning a trip May 2003. We want to see a good show for a small price, any suggestions? Also we are planning on staying at the Trop, any tips for this place. Its my 21st Bday and I want it to be great…Also whats a good spa that is reasonable. Any other tips you have feel free to throw in . Thanks a bunch. Crystal
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As far as a good cheaper show… Lance Burton is a lot of fun for a magic show and it’s not as crazy expensive as the other shows… Blue Man Group is on the low end of the expensive shows and is also really fun. The Tropicana is an older hotel in a great location. Their staff is friendly and you have some of the biggest Vegas casinos across the street! Most spas in Las Vegas have comparable costs… If you don’t want to go to the one in your hotel, spas at Monte Carlo and the Venetian are open to the public.
RateVegas User asked on 01/22/03
How can we get on VIP lists for night clubs??
Thanx
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you gamble you can ask the casino host to take care of this for you. In Vegas, it’s all about how much money you have or who you know.
RateVegas User asked on 01/22/03
I have another question. Now we are considering a 2 bedroom suite at Hawthorn Suites. Any comments on this place? Its y 21st B-day, would the experience be just as good as staying at a strip hotel?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
My only concern would be that you wouldn’t get the experience of staying on the Strip. The Hawthorn is nice but not really part of the action… I would try to focus on the Strip, even if it means staying in an older hotel.
RateVegas User asked on 01/21/03
I am from Canada and I am looking to stay in LV for a week in June. This is supposed to be the slow season and I don’t see any sort of room rate reduction for this time. Since our dollar is so low compared to yours it is financially unfeasable to stay at some of the places you suggest. Any tips on getting a rate at Flamingo or Bally’s which isn’t as high as it is on their website?
Also I heard that the Stratosphere area can be dangerous at night…true or false?
Finally…every review for the buffets on your website always has at least one complaint. Which is your favorite and the most consistent. I will for sure be going to the Rio Seafood Buffet for the all you can eat lobster!!
Thanks for your help,
Corbyn
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Summertime is traditionally the slow season in Las Vegas… Still, certain weeks/weekends are busy and the costs are higher. If would recommend going to hotel Web sites and signing up in their guestbooks to get email notifications of specials… The Stratosphere area can be dangerous at night. I have never felt threatened but it is fairly seedy and I have heard stories about people that have been hassled… As far as buffets, my favorite by far is at the Bellagio. It is always great, whenever I eat there.
RateVegas User asked on 01/21/03
I have seen your ratings of the pools at the hotels, but my kids love water slides the best. Which of the good hotel pools also have slides? Thanks for the great site.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The best pool complex is at Mandalay Bay. Not a lot of slides, but a lazy river that goes around the whole complex as well as a giant “beach” wave pool… The Mirage has a small slide.
RateVegas User asked on 01/20/03
Very informative site. If the $20 trick doesn’t work at the MGM Grand, are the standard rooms still fairly nice? Also, I am taking my wife to Vegas for her first time in March. We will only be there for two days three nights. Do you have some suggestions of some must see attractions?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, the standard rooms are nice. They have recently been remodeled. For some suggestions of must see attractions, look further down this page.
RateVegas User asked on 01/19/03
Hi! We have a group of guys (8-10) staying at the MGM the weekend of Feb. 6, 2003. Most everyone has been to Vegas at least once, but we have no experts. What is your advice for the most friendly casinos for a wide variety (some people at the $5 tables, and some over $25). Which casinos will rate best and have really good drink service, and are drinks comped in the sportsbooks. We have also discussed trying some of the downtown casinos. Any info would be appreciated.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I keep recommending the Mirage because they have a wide variety of table options, good drink service, a great sportsbook, etc… If you’re going to go downtown, consider the Las Vegas Club and the Golden Nugget. Be careful picking rooms downtown, as many of the rooms are pretty old… I hope this wasn’t too late to help…
RateVegas User asked on 01/18/03
Where would I locate the results from Las vegas Bally’s Tennis tournement in late November? I am looking for a picture that was taken of Woody Eisenhart.
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
These are not online as far as we can tell.
RateVegas User asked on 01/17/03
How much do people movers cost on the strip? Do most hotels provide free transportation to other hotels on the strip?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most hotels do not provide free transportation… Right now, the only trams/monorails active are between Mandalay Bay<→Luxor<→Excalibur, Monte Carlo<→Bellagio, and Mirage<→Treasure Island. The MGM<→Ballys monorail is offline while they upgrade it… Peoplemovers can be rented at minimal cost from street vendors… Walking between the hotels is another popular option.
RateVegas User asked on 01/16/03
Sorry about the upgrade question yesterday. I guess if I paid closer attention, the answer to that question is plainly visible on the web page.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No problem.
RateVegas User asked on 01/15/03
What helicopter service provides the best bang for the buck on a Grand Canyon/Hoover Dam at sunset tour?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I have heard good things about Maverick Tours. http://www.maverickhelicopter.com.
RateVegas User asked on 01/15/03
I’ve never been to Vegas before and am planning to take my wife in Jan/04 for her 5oth birthday. I’m considering the Mirage, MandalayBay, Luxor or MGM. Looking for a room w/jacuzzi. She likes to gamble. What are some things for the first timers not to miss. We will most likely be staying for four nights. Also, I’ve been reading some of the Q&A’s and what is the $20.00 thing all about?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
For jacuzzi suites, good choices are Mirage suites, Luxor suites and Mandalay Bay suites… Don’t miss: Bellagio Fountains, Mirage volcano, Treasure Island pirate battle, Bellagio conservatory, etc… There are so many things… Try to see a show like Danny Gans, O, or Mystere. All great!
RateVegas User asked on 01/14/03
Liked your site…I am heading to Vegas..Meeting a special lady there. I dont get to see her very often. I wanted to rent a limo for a night on the town. Lots of limo services available. All in the $40 to $50 an hour range. Do you know of any ratings on the various Vegas Limo services? The prices are fine but who does the best job at this?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I have used Las Vegas Limo several times and have always been very happy with the service.
RateVegas User asked on 01/14/03
Hey Hunter…your site is absolutely priceless. I started reading your Q&As and didn’t stop til I got through all of them…awesome info. Thanks.
My question: About 7 of us (guys—mid 20s) plan on going to Vegas in late September. Is there any way on earth we could all stay in the same suite in one of the hotels on the strip (something with a living room and 3 or 4 beds, and at least semi-upscale). It’s for a buddy’s pre-wedding, non-bachelor party so we’d be willing to spend between $700-1400 a night for 3 or 4 nights. The only thing I’ve seen that comes close is a hospitality suite at the Mirage. Any other places (Bellagio would be great)? Any estimates for prices? Or are we trying to live an unattainable high-roller’s dream??? I’d like any info on getting a nice suite like this before I start calling around casinos so I have at least some reference.
If we can’t do this, would it work to get a decent suite somewhere, check in at 3 or 4 occupancy, and just have everyone crash there, or do the hotels have some safeguard against this?
Lots of questions, but I’d really appreciate your help.
Thanks a lot. Mike.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks!! Ok… With your ample budget you should totally be able to get what you want… It sounds like you have already done some research… The Mirage hospitality suite is a good start… Something like that with some extra beds would get you going… Also, the MGM Grand has some very large suites that you could inquire about. Also, check the Aladdin. Their corner suites are killer. Bellagio is very nice but the cost can really get up there… Most hotels don’t want more than 4 people in a standard room or single bedroom suite… I know plenty of people that disregard this, but as I understand it, it is technically illegal. The casinos don’t take any safeguards that I am aware of to prevent this… Let me know if you have any more questions…
RateVegas User asked on 01/14/03
Hi I am going to Vegas this month to get married, I am concerned about the fact that I don’t have a credit card and when I look at restaurant websites they often say they just accept cards, does that mean they won’t accept cash?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
All restaurants will accept cash (US dollars) as well as most credit cards… As far as I know it is technically a crime to not accept cash in the United States…
RateVegas User asked on 01/13/03
Hi, My mother and i are visiting in April 2003 for her 60th birthday. I was wondering were the best places are for getting coupons. I have found some web sights that you can print them out yourself. And what do you think of the Imperial Palace? Thank You
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Probably the best place to get coupons for free is from the free magazines available in the rooms or on the Strip. These include ‘Showbiz Weekly’ and ’What’s On’. You can buy a subscription to the Las Vegas Advisor and they have a great coupon book that comes with the subscription… As far as the Imperial Palace, I see it as a value property that is a good place to get a night’s sleep in a clean room but not much more than that.
RateVegas User asked on 01/13/03
My friend is getting married at the Little Chapel of the West. She has about 40 people coming to her see her “elope” We’d like to throw her a little reception / cake cutting/toasting right after the wedding (from 3 – 5 pm) but are at a loss where to begin to look for information. Ideas?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Your best bet is either talking to the folks at the chapel and seeing what they suggest or talking to your hotel and inquiring about renting a conference room. Both should be able to accomodate pretty much any size group.
RateVegas User asked on 01/13/03
Regarding a place to hold a little post wedding party. To clarify my previous question. My friend and most of the guests are staying at Circus Circus. I know they have a mini suite available (double the reg room rate) and I could get a cake from catering. I was thinking of going this way for a little wedding party, just a cake and a champagne toast. I get the impression Circus Circus is a bit tacky (I’m staying at Ballys) but is really that awful? My budget is $600.
Thanks! BTW Love this site!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I’m sure that even Circus Circus could put something together for you… You might also want to talk to the Ballys folks and see about renting a room there… Thanks for the kind words!
RateVegas User asked on 01/11/03
Hi…several of us are planning a “girl’s trip” this spring. We range in age from 25-35. Where would you recommend we stay? Some of us have been to Vegas before, but it is the 1st time for others. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Depending on how much excitement you are looking for, I would suggest several places… 1. Hard Rock – great nightlife but a little far from the Strip. Lots of opportunities to go dancing and find some friends… 2. Palms – Similar to the Hard Rock but on the other side of the Strip. Lots of night action. 3. Mandalay Bay – South Strip, lots of fun. Some good nightclubs and a nice large casino. 4. Mirage – a little more upscale clientele but a great casino in a great location. First timers might want to be on the Strip. All of the night spots are accessible via cab.