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ragnar asked on 04/27/05
Aloha Hunter, I am looking forward to your thoughts and observations on Wynn Las Vegas! I will be staying there beginning on May 7 and can’t wait. Let us know what you think.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Certainly! Our coverage starts Saturday evening at Two Way Hard Three, our Las Vegas blog.
raoul_777 asked on 04/26/05
Hey,
How is Wynn ever going to open on Thursday!!! The place is a mess still!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s amazing how you can motivate people!
melissa_duv asked on 04/26/05
A couple of questions…1)Are there free buses (shuttles) to places like Primm? 2) Do you know if the $20 trick works at the Stratosphere? 3) How much and what kind of show tickets should we buy before we get to Vegas (opposed to waiting to get coupons or visiting Tickets4Tonight)? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Regular shuttle service is very limited and at this point may be non-existent. Renting a car is probably the best way to get to Primm. As far as upgrades at the Strat, anything is worth trying. It doesn’t ‘not work’ anywhere and it doesn’t ‘certainly work’ anywhere either. It all depends on how full they are and who you talk to. Certain shows can only be booked through the official box office and are in short supply. This includes all the Cirque shows (O, Mystere, KA and Zumanity) and to some extent Celine… Basically the rule is if you want a high end show, book it ahead of time. They can get quite expensive, $100+ per ticket.
Ann asked on 04/26/05
My husband and I are in our fifties and planning a Vegas trip mid-July with our grown children. My son’s wedding & reception was at the Bellagio last year (where we stayed) and was lovely. He will be staying at Wynn’s, our other children at the Hard Rock (too young for me I think) and I have booked rooms at the Tropicana Paradise Tower (because of the pool). We want to have fun, low table limits, and a fun pool and people our age. Bellagio was a little stuffy and very expensive to gamble there. I have also stayed at Bally’s, Ceasars, TI, and Orleans (hated the Orleans). I’m getting worried about the Tropicana because of the terrible reviews I’ve seen on other web sites. You don’t mention it at all. I like the location and care more about gambling than the size of a room. Is the Trop as terrible as people say it is.. and how do you think the $20 trick will work there?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Tropicana is a ‘fine’ hotel. It’s nicer than a Holiday Inn and it is clean. It is not luxurious but it will fill the ‘need a place to sleep’ void very well and it has a nice pool… So, no, it is not terrible… You have a better chance of the $20 trick working there vs. other upscale resorts.
msmith16 asked on 04/26/05
20 may 05 I am bringing my ddaughter
and her friend for 21 b-day, what r some good clubs for them and us to try out
they r 1st timers also not to pricey
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The problem isn’t usually the cover fee, it is the cost of the drinks that can add up quickly. The hottest clubs right now are Body English (Hard Rock), Rain (Palms), Light (Bellagio), Tangerine (TI) and Pure (Caesars Palace). By then Le Bete, Wynn Las Vegas’ new nightclub will also be open. You could also try an ultra-lounge, basically more of a hangout spot than a dancing joint. Those include Ghostbar (Palms), Tabu (MGM Grand), Lure (Wynn), among others.
Denise106 asked on 04/26/05
I’m wondering if there are any hotel pools that are open to the public? I’m staying at Harrahs but I’d like to go to a different pool. Any ideas? Thank you!!!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Unfortunately none are open to the public. While some can be snuck into, this list is getting shorter as well.
franman128 asked on 04/24/05
Hunter, love this site! Always come here first before another Vegas trip. I just got back and read on the Southwest Air mag that Donald Trump is building a hotel/casino across the street from the Wynn hotel. Is that the construction going on next to the Venetian? Any info?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Trump is building Trump Tower Las Vegas, a condo and hotel project. There is no gaming component. The project is located on the rear of the parcel occupied by the New Frontier, across Las Vegas Blvd. from Wynn Las Vegas.
musicmansimpson asked on 04/23/05
Hunter, I booked THEHotel and am looking forward to it greatly. How dilligent do I have to be in informing the hotel that there is a third person in the room? Is it best to inform the hotel and pay the higher price, or is it easy to get away with.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you conscience can stand it, I would be surprised if they detected you.
skydiva44 asked on 04/23/05
Hey Hunter…coming to LAS in June while the Cinevegas Film Festival is going on. Any info about this that you can share? Passes to the parties are quite expensive, but would love to see or schmooooze with the beautiful people at The Palms. Any info is appreciated!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Unless you are well connected, the only way I know of to get passes is to ante up. Sorry!
jlaspada asked on 04/21/05
Hunter, I found what I think is a pretty good deal on a one bedroom tower suite at The Mirage. We can stay for $250 for four nights and $200 on the fifth night. Do you have any tips or advice regarding the type of view I should request/not get? I have heard great things from you regarding the hotel so I am sure I won’t be disappointed.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
That’s a great deal. Take it!!! Most of the Tower Suites are on upper floors, so out of the gate you are in good shape. The best views are ‘Pool View’ and ‘Volcano View’. The sell the ‘Volcano View’ at a premium but I personally think the ‘Pool View’ is better. After you see the volcano a few times, it gets a little old. The ‘Pool View’ gives you a view all the way down the Strip. Personally, I love The Mirage. I’ve had fantastic service there and I think the facility is beautiful, even after all these years. I hope you have a great time.
Rob asked on 04/21/05
Are plans in place to merge the Players Club and the One Club – once the merger of MGM and Mandalay is completed ? If so – how long before you be able to use the one card at all of the combined company’s casinos ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, the cards will eventually be merged. Making that happen will require a good bit of technical planning so don’t expect it to be completed for 12-18 months after the merger is closed.
musicmansimpson asked on 04/20/05
Thanks for the quick reply. I have another question. My best friend and I are poker players and frequent the casinos up here. We always play 5/10 (lowest limit is 2/5). Could you suggest a hotel and stakes where the style of game would be comparable. I find if the stakes are too low, people play stupidly and you get nasty nasty beats., but on the flip side we’re students and not made of money. Thanks for your help. You seem to know everything…
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
With poker’s explosion, there are rooms of all levels around town. I would suggest checking in at the Luxor or even The Mirage for some good action. Excalibur has some low limit games but there are a lot of beginners.
musicmansimpson asked on 04/20/05
Hunter,
I will be travelling from Ontario witha few buddies during the last week in August. I have been to Vegas twice before I turned 21, so I’m the veteran among the group. I’ve stayed in Mandalay Bay once before and just loved it. I am excited to see THEHotel. My question is this: Are the front desk areas the same for the two hotels and you merely ascend different towers? If I book a Mandalay Bay room t, will/can/may I be offered an upgrade to THEHotel upon check-in at Mandalay Bay? I may just bite teh bullet and reserve at THEHotel (since It will only be about 200 more for the 4 nights). I love the pool area at Mandalay, and you seem to love the rooms at THEHotel. Let me know what you think!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They are treated like totally separate hotels… Different entrances, check-in, etc… Getting the upgrade is TOUGH… If you want THEHotel, book that specifically.
blue asked on 04/20/05
Great website!! 10 of us are going to vegas but half of us are staying at one hotel and the other half at another (MGM and Mirage). Do you think we will be able to use each others pools? Or does each person have their own pool key?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Both hotels check keys but not per person, only per group. You should be able to pull this off.
shirleyd asked on 04/19/05
Hi Hunter,
I see the Mirage has posted some updated 360 degree photos for their suites. The have one for something called a Lanai suite that appears to have a terrace with either a hot tub or plunge pool outside. Is this a suite reserved for high rollers only? They don’t list it as a room selection no matter what dates I enter on the reservation page, nor do they list rates for it.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
That sure was sneaky of them… Yes, the Villas and Lanais are only for casino customers, meaning high rollers. They will rent them but they are thousands per night and only with a manager’s approval.
Rob asked on 04/18/05
Many thanks for the previous answers – and have enjoyed reading the Blogs – re: Sir Galahds – we read a good review in ‘The Unofficial Guide . . .’ and thouight it would be good fun – have we been misled ??!!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Well, I would mark it as average. For a good and inexpensive steakhouse, the Circus Circus Steakhouse is very hard to beat.
hp asked on 04/16/05
I am trying to book a trip to Vegas, I am having trouble finding a hotel that will allow 5 in a room. Can we get away with having another person in the room? (We are looking to state at MGM, TI, or Mirage) Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Nevada law states that a standard guest room can hold four people, so all hotels state this as their policy. Enforcement is very lax…
thecips asked on 04/16/05
Hi Hunter,
We are goging to Vegas in June. Do you think a better place to gamble will be Wynn since its just opening or slots will be tight. Any word on min on tables yet?
Also if you where to chose between Legends and La Cage which would you see?
Thanks,
Linda
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Expect to see limits similar to Bellagio, where they do have $5 games but they are hard to find some times during the day. I expect to see slots about as tight as they are at the Venetian, Bellagio or The Mirage… Legends in Concert is a great, really fun show. La Cage ain’t bad but Legends is really fun.
Justtimm asked on 04/13/05
Hey Buddy …. AWESOME site. I am going out to Vegas in early May to see the new cirque type show “Le Reve”…. should be pretty good. I have a qick question for you. Do you know the Happy hour schedules for the major resort resturants and lounges? (We Love the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, TI, Mirage, and Alladin.) I have tried to look all over ….but can’t seem to find anything. I have been to vegas ALOT …. and always seem to go at the wrong time! haha. Thanks buddy. Keep up the awesome work.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Enjoy ‘Le Reve’ and touring Wynn Las Vegas… Regarding Happy Hour, most hotel bars don’t actually have specials. I have seen some bars jack up drink prices at night but that is about it.
Rob asked on 04/13/05
Hi Hunter – I’m heading to Vegas in June – and have the following restaurants on my shortlist; have you heard any recent reviews or comments about them? – Taqueria Cañonita at the Venetian, – Sir Galahad’s Prime Rib at Excalibur, – Commanders Palace Jazz Brunch (I’ve eaten dinner there a few years ago which was very good). Many thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Commanders Palace is a surefire win. Taqueria Cañonita is good but it probably won’t blow your socks off… I’ve not been to Galahad’s… Curious why that was picked for your list…
ragemuzik asked on 04/10/05
Have you stayed at the Marquis suite at NYNY? I’m staying there in 3 weeks and want to know what to expect! I’ve gotten mixed reviews on the hotel itself.
Much appreciated!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Marquis Suite is NYNY’s jacuzzi suite product, popular in many Las Vegas hotels. I don’t usually give NYNY the highest marks as I think the property has several large defects when compared to other Las Vegas mega-resorts. Bottom line is that a large Las Vegas hotel is still a lot more fun than a hotel in any other city.
jlaspada asked on 04/08/05
Another question for you Hunter. I know the $20 trick is not guaranteed, but what are the odds of upgrading to a petite or tower suite at The Mirage using the $20 trick? We are traveling 6/26-7/1. The listed price on the website is about $70 out of my range. Any ideas? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Honestly, I think the chances are slim to none, but that shouldn’t discourage you from trying… Make it a challenge, see if you can pull it off.
nrwdsctt asked on 04/08/05
Are the strip clubs in vegas 18 and over or 21 and over?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks to reader SOLDSHORT, we have new info on this… Most are 21+ but Déjà Vu Showgirls on Industrial Road is 18+.
Ian asked on 04/07/05
Thanks for your excellent advise. My girlfriend is vegan. What fine dining restaurants are likely to be most accomodating to this, bearing in mind we will stay at MGM grand and then TI?
Thanks in advance!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Finding vegan alternatives can be tough. Luckily, the find dining outlets are usually pretty accommodating. Though not the finest of dining, you might try the Grand Wok at the MGM Grand. Shibuya and Pearl are other good possibilities. TI will be more difficult. They have three main fine dining outlets: a steakhouse, an Italian restaurant and the Buccaneer Bay Club, which serves mostly seafood and some prime beef.
AnnaMikeMc asked on 04/06/05
Hi Hunter! In planning our 3rd annual Vegas anniversary trip, we are trying to narrow down our dining options. For a quality steakhouse, do you prefer Prime or Craftsteak? For French, how about Le Cirque or Lutece? Also, any word yet on the restaurants at Wynn Las Vegas? How about the production shows? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I prefer Prime over Craftsteak but I think you should seriously take a look at Delmonico – it beats both… Both Le Cirque and Lutece are very good. Le Cirque may have the edge with the better view (fountains). Wynn’s restaurants aren’t open yet, but expect them to all be good and some probably great. Same deal with the production show, Le Reve.
ryanpro1 asked on 04/05/05
Best vegas site around!! I basically have 3 questions. 1) Any suggestions on a nice restaurant (semi formal) that is not 80.00 per person? 2) This is my 4th trip but I am travelling with a virgin couple, any total must sees for the firt timers? 3) I will be arriving on a Tuesday early-do you think we can check in to Mandalay Bay about 10:00 A.M. and hit the pool?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! There are a lot of options for nice restaurants that are not terribly expensive. Of course, part of this is what you order and depends on if you are wine drinkers, which can really jack up the price. For instance, you could probably do Delmonico, one of the best steakhouses in town, for $60/person if you’re not drinking wine. A good option for something not too formal but pretty hip would be FIX at Bellagio or Simon Kitchen and Bar at the Hard Rock. Emeril’s at MGM Grand is also a good choice. There are quite a few restaurants that meet your conditions… The biggest ‘must see’ will probably be the Fountains of Bellagio (and perhaps the whole hotel). Other than that, the Mirage Volcano is always popular. I used to recommend the TI Pirate Show but it’s gone way downhill. Mandalay should let you check in and hit the pool, even if your rooms are not yet ready.
angie90210 asked on 04/05/05
Going to stay in the Bellagio penthouse in June and was wondering if there are any perks that come with staying up there?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Unlike The Mirage, the hotel doesn’t have a standard set of perks for those renting high end suites. If you have a particular need, I would suggest contacting the concierge.
Wiggy asked on 04/05/05
Hello again
The missus and I have recently started to watch “The Contender” and I believe that the final bout is due to take place at Caesars Palace sometime in June. We’ll be in Vegas from June 23rd and wondered if you knew the exact date of the final and the chances of us getting 2 tickets and what we need to do to get them. That’s if our time there coincides. Much appreciated.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
According to NBC, the live season finale takes place May 24th at Caesars Palace.
jlaspada asked on 04/05/05
Regarding Wynn Las Vegas. Are you anticipating prices for the rooms to increase after the opening, decrease or stay about the same for the summer? We are planning a trip for the last week in June. We’ve narrowed it down to the Wynn and THEhotel. Also, is it anticipated that other comparable hotels will raise their prices also? Thanks so much Hunter!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would expect room rates to rise in the Fall but probably not until then… Summer is traditionally one of the ‘weakest’ times for Vegas room rates due to the heat… A high tide raises all boats. While I expect other high end properties to raise their rates with Wynn, I don’t think they will have a price war during the Summer months.
Ian asked on 04/04/05
thanks for the excellent advice. One more question: we are going to go see Mystere on our second night now, so what would you recommend… the standard room in Paris for $185 or a premium tower room in TI for $139?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Well, the ‘Premium’ Tower Rooms at TI really just mean high floors and better views. The rooms are no bigger than the standard rooms… I would argue that the amenities of the two resorts are very similar and since TI is a bit cheaper, I would probably go that way.
Luckysheri777 asked on 04/04/05
We are planning a 3-night, 8th anniversary vacation to Vegas in August. We have been there several times and always stayed at Luxor. We thought we would try the new Wynn Resort this time, but I wonder if they have much casual dining there and also will I be sorry to be so far away from the rest of the hotels with either lots of walking or taxi fees. Also will the walkway to the Fashion Show Mall be available in August?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
There are several casual dining restaurants at Wynn Las Vegas. Besides their expansive buffet, there is also their Terrace Pointe Cafe, overlooking the pool area. Beyond that, there are several more upscale casual dining locations such as Red 8 and The Cafe. The overhead walkway to the Fashion Show Mall is scheduled to open with the resort late this month. Regarding being far away from the rest of the hotels, Wynn is next to TI, The Mirage and The Venetian, with other hotels close by.
raoul_777 asked on 04/03/05
HEY! Back again! i was wondering what day school usually starts in las vegas…. september, august? Anyway do you know if Tony Orlando is planning to do a show in July? And how are those sweets at jean philippe? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
For schools on a nine-month schedule, classes start in late August. Some Clark County schools are on a 12-month program. The new pastry shop at Bellagio is quite good, don’t worry. It looks like Mr. Orlando’s next scheduled visit is mid-August at The Orleans.
jlaspada asked on 04/03/05
I have another question for you Hunter. Since doing a bit more research, we are thinking of staying ath THEhotel at Mandalay Bay. How does this compare to the Venetian? I am also not finding much information on the website regarding any differences in rooms. All that I am coming up with is a standard suite. Are there certain rooms that I should request? And is there a concierge level in this hotel? Thanks so much, Jennie
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
THEHotel is a great place to stay. The rooms there are true multi-room suites where the standard ‘suites’ at The Venetian are just oversized rooms. THEHotel doesn’t have a concierge level but I think you will find the standard service to be quite good.
Rob asked on 04/03/05
Hi Hunter – I’m going to be visiting in early June – and need some advice with shows. Already booked for Mystere – thanks for the advice on this – but now I’m looking to see a top notch singer and band. I’m looking at either Clint Holmes or Gladys Knight. – Any views on which is the best show ? Also – any idea on how to get coupons or comps for either of these two shows ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Clint Holmes is a don’t miss if you want to see that kind of show. He’s great… You will often see coupons for the show in the in-room magazines like ’What’s On’, but getting those ahead of time can be difficult.
A asked on 04/03/05
I have one more question. Im staying at Treasure Island and I read some mixed reviews. How is it really? and if its bad whats my other options? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Personally, I think that TI is a great choice. Nice rooms, great service. Dining is pretty good but not stellar. The pool isn’t the best but that’s the worst thing about the property. I often recommend TI.
A asked on 04/03/05
Hey Hunter Just to let you know your site is awesome! Im Going to be in Las vegas from April 8- 10 and I was wondering if there were any good resturants for a good price becuase I am meeting 8 family memebers and i don’t want to spend that much. Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! You might try places like the Grand Luxe Cafe at the Venetian or perhaps the Samba Grille at The Mirage. Both good choices with large portions and reasonable prices.
thecips asked on 04/02/05
We are going to vegas and staying at venetian in June. Could you tell me if wynns new hotel is close by?Also can’t seem to find any decent room pictures anywhere on web of the bella suites in the Venezia tower.We like to have a nice dinner at night (no buffets for us) something a little more quiet and romantic any suggestions? I can’t imagine going to vegas without your website it is terrific.
Linda
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks. Wynn Las Vegas is ‘next door’ to The Venetian. In Las Vegas, ‘next door’ can mean quite a hike but in this case the only thing between the two is an empty lot where a new resort, The Palazzo, is going in. You can walk between Wynn and The Venetian easily. Regarding dining options, The Venetian has some good choices. Delmonico Steakhouse is my favorite in the whole city and Valentino is a good choice for Italian.
jlaspada asked on 04/02/05
Hunter, I just found this site and it is fantastic. My husband and I are planning a trip from 6/26-7/1 and are looking into The Venetian. I found a great rate for a standard suite, but was wondering what the odds will be at that time of year to get an upgrade to the Venezia Tower. I am also wondering about an upgrade to the Concierge Level in the new tower. Thanks so much, and I will most definitely be back with more questions.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! If you want to be in the Venezia Tower, your best bet is to book it up front. Getting that upgrade is tough because that tower is preferred over the original. Also, the chances of being booked into the main tower and getting an upgrade to Venezia’s concierge level are very slim.
Ian asked on 04/01/05
I am going to vegas for a romantic weekend with my girlfriend in early july. The first night we have a choice of a Park Avenue room in NYNY or a premium view tower room at the MGM grand. The second night we have a choice of a standard room at Paris or standard room at Ceasars (i.e. one of the three old towers). Which do you recommend for each night and which would have the best probability of an upgrade? Also, I’m surprised that the rooms are relatively cheap given it is 4th July on the Monday, any idea why?
Many thanks
Ian
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Between those room choices at MGM Grand and NYNY, I would probably go with MGM Grand. Neither room is a drop dead stunner but you probably have a better chance at an upgrade at MGM Grand. Also, it has better restaurant choices and a brand new sports book. Regarding Paris v. Caesars, I would go with Paris. The older rooms at Caesars are small and not all that nice. Paris is a nice hotel with some good ambiance. July is traditionally very hot and thus is considered an ‘off’ month for Las Vegas, meaning occupancy drops to the mid-80% levels.
Calschmidt asked on 03/31/05
Great site Hunter. Enjoy looking in every week or so to see what is new. My question relates to the Aladdin. I have stayed there in the past and found the rooms and service to be great. I am thinking of booking a stay in mid to late July but am curious about when the change to Planet Hollywood will begin. I know you have had questions about Aladdin construction in the past but any word on the change over yet?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They are being pretty tight lipped about when the heavy changes will begin. I expect the more massive parts of the project to be taking place in the Fall.
carol asked on 03/31/05
Staying at the Flamingo this year. One of the ladies needs to take medicine that needs refrigeration. Is there a charge for having a refrig in the room if it is for medical reasons. I agree with all your readers…your web site is the best.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would arrange for this in advance by making a note on your reservation… But yes, this is usually easily accommodated.
Orlandoguy asked on 03/28/05
Just found your site recently and I love it! I’m planning a trip to Las Vegas in June midweek. I’d love to stay at the Wynn, but the rates are just a little to rich for me. I’ve done some checking and can get a Venezia Tower suite at the Venetian for $189. It’s a little more than I would normally spend, but I willing to do it if it’s worth it. I’ve heard so many mixed comments about the Venetian I’m not sure what to do. I’ve never stayed at the Venetian Any advice would be helpful.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
In general I think the Venetian is way overhyped. While I do like some of the restaurants and the spa, the main tower isn’t that great. The Venezia tower is much nicer. That’s actually quite a good price for those rooms, I would probably snap it up.
Cindy asked on 03/26/05
My husband and I are going to Vegas for our first time in April. We are staying at Bally’s. I don’t see too many reviews about Bally’s but we thought the price, size of room, and location were great for us. My husband has had some medical problems so we plan on asking for a remodeled room somewhat close to the elevators but don’t know what is even reasonable to ask for. Also, I found out that concierge service is $30 a night more…do you think it is worth it? And, more confusion over which of the towers to try to get in to. I’m not sure if I’m more concerned about a view or more concerned with remodeled room! By the way, this is the best and most informative site I’ve found!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks for the kind words. When Ballys originally opened (as the MGM Grand), it was the most luxurious hotel in Las Vegas. Over the years, even as other hotels may have grabbed that title, the owners have kept the property up to a high standard. Both the South and North Tower rooms have been renovated, so you should be set. The South Tower is much closer to the front door and the casino, while the North Tower is closer to the pool and monorail station. If you’re looking to meet some fellow travelers and be pampered a bit, access to the concierge floor can be a nice upgrade but it’s not a ‘must do’ if funds are tight. Have a great time!
Mikeynla asked on 03/25/05
Hunter,
I’ll be in Vegas April 1 for 2 nights, experiencing some of the most outrageous room rates I’ve ever seen. At any rate, since it’s already so expensive, I figure I might as well spend a little more and enjoy a nice room. I know that people complain about the thin walls at the Monte Carlo, but that’s okay by me. For now, I booked a Monaco Suite, $80/night more than a regular room. Do have much experience with the upgraded rooms at MC? The Spa Suites look amazing, and I’ve heard really great things about them, but that is just not in my budget at all right now. So, Mr. Las Vegas, would you recommend the extra bucks for the Monaco Suite, or just hope that perhaps we’ll be offered the upgrade at a cheaper rate upon check-in (as they apparently frequently do)? Thanks as always!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I think you first have to ask yourself if you’ll be happy in a regular room… If so, then you might want to take the chance. An upgrade from a regular room to a Spa Suite is probably a long shot. High rates mean high occupancy which means the suites are probably all booked. You might get the opportunity to upgrade, though there is clearly no guarantee of the option or the rate. You need to determine how big of a deal it would be to ‘strike out’ and end up in a regular room.
chuckwag asked on 03/25/05
will be going to vegas in june for a 6 night stay. the first 3 nights will be at the venetian which is comped. we wanted to try some other hotels out and thought about the bellagio, mirage and mgm. we got a 159.00 rate for the bellagia at the new spa towers, my question is are the other two hotels better properties when it comes to the better rooms or should i try to give wynn a try for an additional 40.00 or should i leave the reservation in tact at the bellagio.
my wife likes to shop alot and isnt a gambler so see leaves me alone to gamble and we get together during the evenings to dine and spend some time together, so she will shop and sit by the pool and read in the room. can you help with this question i know its a big question, thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Since Wynn Las Vegas isn’t open yet, it is hard to answer with certainty. Still, I am confident that the hotel will be amazing and I would recommend the extra cash to stay there. Bellagio is a great property but Wynn will be brand new and have the best of everything. Also, the Fashion Show Mall is across the street, so your wife can do as much shopping as she’d like. Give Wynn a try!
doubleg asked on 03/24/05
My wife and I are trying to decide which resort to stay this summer. We are pool fans and stayed at the Mirage last year. We highly enjoyed the pool area, just so we were there by 1000 am, but were a bit disapointed in the room, especially the size of the bath. I have found a daily rate of $170 for Caesars, Palace Tower, and from what I can tell it is basically comparable to a 500 sf suite(oversized jacuzzi, refrig, etc.). Do you have any recomendations on the pool area and this particular room type? Thank You
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Palace Tower rooms at Caesars are great, their best standard room product. The pool area there is large and Roman styled, but there are no waterfalls, rivers, etc… The best pool in Las Vegas is certainly Mandalay Bay and they do have some great rooms in THEHotel, but rates can get steep. It sounds like you found a good rate for the Palace Tower (rates are often in the $300-$400 range). The tower is situated in such a way that either side has good views, either of Bellagio and points South or of the Mirage and points North.
electricman asked on 03/20/05
Hunter,
I will be staing at BAlly’s last week in March. Do you know if the pool will be open? I will be ariving 10 pm on Sunday. Will the airport registration be faster than registering at the hotel? I have reserved a standard room, but I am thinking of upgrading. Do you know if there are rooms that fall in between the standard room and their suite. There is not much info on their website. I would like a whirlpool tub but I do not want to pay suite price. Last question, when tipping at the buffet, should the servers be tipped when we get our drinks or leave a tip at the end of my meal? Thanks again for your help.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sounds like you are there right now… Feel free to tip the servers at the buffet at the end of the email, just like a ‘normal’ restaurant. Ballys has many different types of suites, which are the first step up from a regular room. Depending on what is available, they may upgrade you. The airport check-in will be a bit faster but you don’t have the full array of options available that you have when on property (i.e. speak to manager, etc…). The pool should be open, barring any type of natural disaster. :-)
nichole asked on 03/20/05
One more question for you. What are the odds do you think of getting cabana at Mirage on a Friday in June. I understand the process of being put on a wait list but how likely is it you will get one? Also my husband wants to know-is $250 for the whole day-from open until close? I dont think we would use it ALL day but have no problem shelling out the $250. Just curious. Thanks again.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It depends on how high you are on the wait list and how many high rollers they have snagging the cabanas. The fee covers the entire day, yes. It’s pretty dead there when the pool opens, but you could setup shop if you wanted to.
carol asked on 03/20/05
Four women are going to be celebrating a friend’s 50 birthday while in Vegas. We are staying at the Flamingo and we are planning on seeing Second City and wondering if the cast ever pulls anyone out of the audience to participate in something. It would be a neat surprise.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
According to the Flamingo, the ‘contents of the show are always changing’ and they are unable to guarantee any specific act being a part of it. Sorry for the vague answer.
dixu asked on 03/20/05
Hello,
First of all, great website. Thanks for all the good info!
We are planning to spend 5 nights in Vegas from June 18th, and I have tentatively booked a bungalow suite at MGM grand. Do you think that’s a good choice? We chose it mainly for the size/price ratio.
It is very important to us to get a room with a good view. Do you suggest we skip the airport check-in (since the $20 trick doesn’t work) and go to the hotel check-in instead? On the other hand, our flight arrives pretty early, about 10am in the morning, would it be early enough to guarantee plenty of availability? And if we do use the airport check-in, how can we tell which rooms have strip view?
Thanks in advance!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The MGM should fit your needs… If you want a specific room type, you’re better off heading directly to the hotel instead of airport check-in. The extra time to get to the hotel won’t have a huge impact on availability.