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Questions & Answers Ask The Experts

jane asked on 03/19/06

Hi – How far a walk is it from The Hotel to the casino at Mandalay Bay. I want to comfort of The Hotel. My DH wants the convenience of a casino! Thanks.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

It’s not that far. You walk from the elevators across a small lobby down a corridor to the edge of the MB casino where the sportsbook is located. I would say the average person could walk it in less than 5 minutes.

PESIMPSON asked on 03/19/06

I am in vegas from 12 april to 17 april departure. Have booked MGM Grand (Hotwire) for 12 and 13 april. but looking for hotel to stay 14 and 16 april who will look after baggage and possibly hire car during an overnight trip to grand canyon by air. Would Stratosphere, circus circus or Las Vegas Hilton do this. Would they charge alot or is it likely to be free. Please advise.
Paul

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Pretty much any major Las Vegas hotel will be happy to store your baggage for free. If it will be more than 24 hours, I would advise letting the bell desk know, just in case.

CanadianYankee asked on 03/18/06

Great site again. I have a room booked at The Mirage with a pool view. Is there a certain wing I should ask for so I can get a view of the Pool and Strip looking down towards the Bellagio. Thanks.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks. Both of the two wings that overlook the pool will offer limited view of Bellagio. Thanks to the new Caesars tower, it is almost impossible to see the Bellagio Fountains from The Mirage. The West Wing pool view is probably going to give you more Strip coverage than the South Wing, though the South Wing might give you a chance of seeing the fountains… Or at least a very small part of them.

belle asked on 03/17/06

We have decided on the MIrage for our May trip to Vegas,,afater much deliberation..but now I see that they are undergoing renovations…should we decide on a different hotel or are the renovations minimal at this point.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

At this point most of the work is done and I can say with confidence that the ‘new’ Mirage is a winner. The new restaurants are great, the nightclub is very popular and the new Cirque show opens in May, so you might even get a chance to see it if you want.

brentsm asked on 03/17/06

I would like to start off my saying how helpful your website has been for me. Unfortunately, I discovered your site after already booking my room at NYNY. My fiance and I are on a budget for our honeymoon and found that the Marquis suite was a lot cheaper priced than any other rooms with a spa. We have been to the actual Casino a few times as we are frequent visitors of Las Vegas. The noise doesn’t bother us and I actually enjoy the environment but can you tell me a little bit more about the room? The NYNY website only offered a small picture of the spa area. After reading other reviews I am a little nervous about our choice since we already made our reservation. I am not too picky as far as luxury goes but I do want a nice honeymoon experience. Thanks so much for all of your help.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks! I wouldn’t worry too much about being at NYNY. It’s not the best hotel in Vegas but since you have a better-than-average room there you should be fine. The room design is fairly standard Las Vegas jacuzzi suite, with the tub in the main room, not the bathroom. Don’t worry, you’ll have a great time.

lafogdog asked on 03/16/06

Just wondering if you know if the bathrooms at NYNY have seperate tubs and showere, Broadway suites to be exact.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Nope, they are combined units… If I have the right room type… There are no ‘Broadway Suites’ at NYNY. They do have ‘Broadway Deluxe’ rooms. I’m assuming that is what you mean.

sprunt asked on 03/15/06

Hey, Hunter. Thanks again for all the help and info you’ve shared with everyone. I was hoping you might be able to shed some light on something. I just got an email from NYNY that has special low rates on certain days/weeks over the next couple of months. For example, the 14th-18th of May has rooms for $99 while the week before is $149 and the week after is $269. I see the same thing on a really similar schedule from the other hotel emails. Can you tell us what makes these days/weeks so special?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

You’re welcome. What makes that period special? Usually the main thing is that the hotel is just empty. These big hotels have special ‘yield management’ software that tells them, based on occupancy, rates, history, etc… if there are ‘holes’ in the calendar that should be filled with a promotion. These holes can be caused by many things – sometimes it is right after a big convention or event when everyone is clearing out. Sometimes it is very hard to tell. Nothing ‘wrong’ with those dates, they’re just trying to keep rooms full and players in the casino.

bclem123 asked on 03/15/06

Hi Hunter, What a wonderful sitewith
a wealth of information you have.
I will be in Vegas in April and have
booke a room at the Las Vegas Hilton
Grand Vacations on the Strip, thru Travel Zoo. They had a promo for $79 per night
Sun.- Thur. $99 Weekends. Upgraded to
a 1 bedroom, Can you tell me anything
about this property. Any info would be
helpful.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks. There are a couple of things that need to be updated but that will be happening soon. Ok, to your question… If the property is the one I am thinking of, and I’m pretty sure it is, it’s a fairly new place that opened on the Northern part of the Strip near Circus Circus and the Sahara. The neighborhood might leave a little to be desired but you’re plenty close to all that the city has to offer. The place is pretty new so no chance of getting a room that needed to be redecorated 10 years ago. Have a great time!

sscoker asked on 03/14/06

I am heading to Vegas with a group of 3 couples (one first-time to Vegas couple). I am trying to figure out a good hotel to stay at for the weekend of 4/21. I have been looking into suites, but it looks like the most bedrooms any suite can offer is two. Here’s the question: Do you know of any 4-5 star strip resorts that can offer a suite that can accomodate 3 couples without sharing a bedroom?

Thanks for your help!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Unless we are getting into villas (which cost a TON), you’re not going to find suites with more than two bedrooms. Two bedroom suites are almost always single bedroom suites with an adjoining guest room. The configuration doesn’t allow for a third bedroom. Of course you can get a one bedroom hospitality suite, like those at The Mirage, and the other guests can get standard rooms and hang out in the large open areas… You don’t have a lot of options as far as rooms for the three couples. If you’re interested in checking anyway, Wynn Las Vegas, Bellagio, The Mirage, MGM Grand (skylofts) and some other hotels all have villa or penthouse accommodations that would work… If you don’t mind paying thousands a night… And if that’s the case, make sure to invite me up for cocktails. :-)

maggiepaul asked on 03/12/06

Hi Hunter, I just came across the web site for the new Red Rock Casino/Resort opening in April 2006. Where is this located and do you have any other info on it? It looks fabulous. Already made a res. for TI (P.S.)end of May, but now wondering if I should change. Thanks.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Red Rock is pretty far off the Strip in Summerlin (near Red Rock Canyon) but from what I’ve seen, it will be an impressive property, even if it is primarily aimed at locals. I’m personally looking forward to checking it out. Some info recently in the local papers here.

dglover asked on 03/12/06

Which major strip casino/hotels have movie theaters, and is there a central website to see showing and times at them?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

No major Strip casinos have movie theaters, though several off-Strip casinos due, such as the Palms and Orleans. There is a movie theater on the Strip next to the MGM Grand, this site has some showtimes.

Dianne asked on 03/10/06

I’m looking for a restaurant that a group of 8-10 people celebrating 21st birthday would enjoy on/near the Strip. Hoping to spend under $40 per person (not including drinks). A private room or view would be a bonus. Mostly wanting fun with decent food

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Unless we start talking about a higher per person, I don’t think a private room is going to be a possibility. As far as restaurants with a view, there are actually a relatively small number that look out over the Strip and most are fine dining with high price tags. A couple of places you might want to check: Mon Ami Gabi (Paris) – located outside on the street, they have a wide array of menu items; Cheesecake Factory (Caesars) or Grand Lux Cafe (Venetian) both have a huge menu with food for everyone at reasonable prices; STACK at The Mirage – getting closer to the top end of the budget but this is a fun restaurant for a group.

lexy asked on 03/09/06

Hello,
I’m planning a suprise birthday trip for my boyfriend to vegas, we like it when it’s really hot and sunny, when would be the best time to go??July
Thankkssss…lexy

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

July and August are both very hot and sunny. Even late June and early September fit the bill. Bring sunscreen!

fabinbalt asked on 03/09/06

I am taking my parents who are in their 50’s to vegas for an extended weekend getaway with my boyriend and myself. My boyfriend and I are staying at TI, as a promotion and I am wondering if TI is too young for my parents and if they would perfer Mirage? any suggestions? They have never been to Vegas. Also, is it true that any seats are good to see “O” or are the top balcony too far away? Thanks for the site, its been SO helpful!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

They might. The crowd at The Mirage trends older and the property generally is marketing to an older crowd. That has changed a bit with the opening of the Jet nightclub. Still, The Mirage is a great spot and they would be happy there. If they want to spend a little more and really feel comfortable, Wynn Las Vegas is right across the street and is certainly trending more towards their age group. As far as ‘O’ goes, most seats are good. It is one of those shows where people come out of the ceiling and the stage. The worst seats are probably right in the front row – can’t see much on the sides. I sat in the balcony once and really liked my seats. I could see the entire stage, which I couldn’t when I was center, about half way back.

SMITTY asked on 03/08/06

MY WIFE & I WILL BE STAYING AT THE MIRAGE FOR 7 NIGHTS IN APRIL. IF WE ASK OUR SLOT HOST IF HE CAN OFFER US ANY COMPS, DOES HE LOOK AT JUST OUR ACTIVITY AT THE MIRAGE OR DOES HE LOOK AT OUR ACTIVITY AT ALL OF THE MGM-MIRAGE CASINOS?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

I’m glad MY caps lock isn’t broken… :-) … The host will be able to see all of your MGM MIRAGE action. The individual properties are competitive so if he thinks he can capture all that play (from the other MGM MIRAGE properties), he will offer you more at The Mirage to make you a ‘Mirage’ customer. Basically, the host can see your Bellagio/TI/MGM/NYNY play buty doesn’t want you playing anywhere but The Mirage. As far as I know, if your play is at Luxor/Mandalay/Excalibur/Circus Circus/Monte Carlo then they have to call it in – it isn’t in the computer yet, so you better tell them if that’s where the majority of your play is. Still, the host only cares about future play. Your history may be an indicator but you’re not going to get free rooms on this trip for play in the past – you’ll have to play at The Mirage while you’re there. The past play is useful to get a host’s attention BEFORE you arrive… I hope that helps.

PJTremblay01 asked on 03/07/06

Is Encore at Wynn Las Vegas going to breakground in June 2006?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

That’s the plan.

sprunt asked on 03/07/06

In your opinion, what are the best times of the year to come to Vegas? The summer inferno? The cool winter? Spring and fall? How do the hotel rates factor in to the seasons? How do the crowds factor in? My group of friends are looking at trying to get at least one annual trip to LV but not everyone can afford much more than airfare and hotel. What do you think the best seasons are for making a 3 or 4 day trip? Is there anything that’s going to be closing or blown up soon that we should check out before it goes? Thanks again!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

It depends on what you like in terms of temperature. Spring and Fall are mild, Summer is hot and Winter is cold (not cool!). There used to be a clear up-swing in room rates for October-early December and down-swing for the Summer but that’s becoming less true. Most of the large conventions are still October-January and those weekends are EXPENSIVE. Summer can be cheaper overall but there are values to be had all over. The bottom line is to check rates at hotels you like for any time period and see what they have to offer. Typically less tourists in Summer due to the heat. More business people for big conventions and that means long lines at nice restaurants that they don’t mind expensing. As far as places that are going soon, there are a couple but I don’t know if they are really worth seeing. The New Frontier, Tropicana and Stardust could all be gone in 12 months but other than historical value, they don’t have much in the way of attractions to visit.

smoogee asked on 03/07/06

Hi Hunter, thanks for answering my earlier question & thank yoy for this wonderful site…it can’t be beat. For my next question: when can we expect to see July promos on the hotel sites & does your site match it? Will most likely go w/Mirage. Thanks again.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks! In most cases I can’t really predict the pricing that we have from our affiliates because I don’t control them directly but, with certain hotels booking from us is the same as booking from them direct and that includes all MGM MIRAGE properties and Wynn Las Vegas, so that would include The Mirage. If you click on our ‘book it’ link for The Mirage, you’ll be taken to their Web site but we will get credit for the sale. That means you can see all of their promotions right there on the site. As far as when promos go out? For the general term they’ll probably send an email and a paper mailer in May but they often follow-up with email mailers for slow weekends and those can be any time.

pliddy asked on 03/06/06

Hi Hunter
I will be returning in August and want to rent a limo from the airport-I am not a level where it will be comped so which of the many services to you recommend and what should I expect for a rate- I would want it for at least an hour and have 6 people in my party
Many thanks!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

I always use Las Vegas Limo. They have both limos and sedans but for 6 you’ll want a limo. Rates should be in the ~$60/hour range. Enjoy.

maggiepaul asked on 03/06/06

Hi Hunter, Sorry this is my 3rd time here in 24 hours. What would be your pick of the Cirque shows, the one at La Reve, or Mystere @ TI, or “O”? Next time I’ll try getting my act together and put everything in one email. And, thanks for all your help over the past 2 years.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

No problem! ‘Le Reve’ at Wynn Las Vegas is actually not a Cirque show, even though it was created by Franco Dragone, who created ‘O’ and ‘Mystere’. Even thought there are now also ‘Ka’ and ‘Zumanity’, I still think ‘O’ and ‘Mystere’ are the best for the money. These days ‘Mystere’ is a bit easier to get good seats for and a good place to start if you’re looking to see one of these shows.

maggiepaul asked on 03/06/06

Hi, Don’t know if your interested or not, but I wanted to give you my view on the Blue Man Group Show. We saw it in October, paid $125 apiece for the tickets, 4 of us went and none of us could justify the cost after seeing the show. It is different, but it is NOT for everyone, especially if you are even slightly claustrophobic. I could hardly wait to get out of the theater, our friends said they did not know what to think about it, but we all agreed we could have spent our $500 for 4 on something better.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

We always like to hear about people’s experiences. Actually, the best way to make sure others see this is to visit our Venetian page and input your review for the show. Thanks for sharing.

smoogee asked on 03/05/06

My husband & I plan tio visit LV in late July (1st timers). A few considered hotel choices thus far are Orleans (like the rates), Mirage (like the Psuites), Mandalay Bay (bathrms) & Venetian. Which would you recommend for someone w/limited ability to walk long distances? Would it matter, if we rent a car or is Strip traffic & parking a deterrant?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Unfortunately all of those hotels are rather large, probably in this order: Venetian (largest), Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, Orleans (smallest). All of the hotels have free valet and free self-parking so renting a car is not a problem… Of the hotels you mentioned, my favorite is The Mirage, which has recently been massively upgraded with new restaurants. For me, Mandalay Bay and the Orleans are too far away from everything and The Venetian isn’t a place I’ve had good service.

herronl asked on 03/05/06

I am going to LV with a group of gals for our annual trip. I have currently booked an executive suite at Bally’s that has a connecting room. This was the best price over Mirage & MGM (stayed here before) which were the only other hotels that had this type of a room configuration. Has anyone ever stayed in the “executive suite” which is apparently different from the parlor suite. Not expecting the luxury of Bellagio (stayed her before too) because we didn’t want to spend that kind of $$ but also want to make sure that we have something higher end than Excalibur. Would love to know if there are any photos that I could get to also. Thanks ..

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Yes, I’ve been in this room type and you have nothing to worry about. It’s a bit of a throwback to the Vegas of yesteryear but I mean that in a good way. It’s been renovated and kept up well and is many notches above the Tragic Castle (Excalibur). I believe the pictures at the bottom of this page are the suite type we’re talking about.

ericmcd asked on 03/05/06

Hi Hunter.. I’ve been reading on vegas.com about these “front of line passes” for the clubs.. Do you know/have you heard if they work? I woried about fronting the money, heading to the club and then getting hassled by the bouncers or finding out they’re not valid or something shady along those lines and being out the 40 or 50 bucks.. Any thoughts? Thanks! and great site!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

I haven’t used one but from what I’m told, they basically get you in the ‘VIP’ line. This isn’t the real VIP line because if you’re a real VIP, there is no line. If you want to get the real deal on Vegas nightlife, we’ve hooked up with an expert that can answer questions and arrange for all kinds of access. His name’s Bill and he knows all there is to know about getting into nightclubs. Contact him at bill@mecca-entertainment.com and make sure you tell him that Hunter from RateVegas sent you.

maggiepaul asked on 03/05/06

Hi, We will be in Vegas May 29-June 1, Cannot decide on Mirage, TI, MGM, or Aladin. My husband always brings his work with him, do any of the above have an internet hookup/phone away from the bed? I hate getting awakened at 7 a.m. every day listening to business calls. I know Paris has a seperate alcove for this, but we like staying somewhere different each visit. What is you pick of the above? This is the best site for Vegas on the web! Thank you.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks for the kind words. All of the hotels have high-speed Internet. The Mirage and TI have little mini-desks that are pretty good for a laptop, right where the Internet comes in. Still, it’s pretty close to the bed in all of these places. You’d really have to get a suite for him to have ultimate privacy, in which case you’d be all set… None of the hotels you mentioned have good separation in the standard guestrooms.

glopez asked on 03/04/06

can u get into clubs wearing jeans and collared t shirts

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

While not technically forbidden at most clubs, this certainly won’t help your cause getting in. The folks at the door are selective and if you’re guys without a bunch of girls, looking sloppy or even just super casual won’t help. Would it kill you to get dressed up? It will certainly help your chances of getting in… If you do wear jeans, make sure they don’t have tons of holes or you aren’t getting in… Collared t-shirts? This is a bit sketchy and I would make sure to have a button down in the room in case they don’t like your style.

sprunt asked on 03/03/06

Just ran accross the site and I already love it. Great job! Now a question: My GF and I have fallen in love with Vegas. Unfortunately we have to do things on a budget. We’re not big on gambling (though I loves me some Craps) but we love to drink and walk around looking at the sights, and maybe stop in the little outdoor kareoke place south of the Alladdin (it’s in some kind of island themed outdoor shopping area.) We’ve also found a great place called Fat Tuesdays in the MGM Grand. We’re looking at coming back soon and I was wondering if you could suggest a good value on a hotel close to MGM. Last time we stayed in the Imperial Palace (in the original hotel part), but we’re kind of hoping for something a little more south this time. Also, what would you suggest for a Craps lover who is broke? Low table limits? Tournaments?

Thanks for all your help (here and for everybody else!)

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Fallen in love with Vegas? Unimaginable! If only my wife loved it as much as I do… I digress… On the South side, I would check MGM Grand itself (sometimes great values), Monte Carlo, Aladdin (Planet Hollywood), Excalibur (consistently low) and sometimes Luxor. The newly re-opened Hooters Hotel and Casino is just off the Strip across from the MGM with low rates. The Tropicana is across the street – it’s a 50 year old property that will probably be imploded soon. They aren’t taking reservations past April at this point but if you’re going before then you could score a deal. Rates at all of these places are in a constant state of flux. You never know when you’ll get a great deal, you need to just keep checking the hotel sites, etc… Also, sign up on the hotel’s Web sites for the mailing lists – they send deals all the time. As far as low limit craps, this is a really tough one on the Strip. I too prefer craps but these days the Strip games are minimum $5 and a lot of spots are going to $10 and $15 minimums all the time. I remember when Bellagio opened – they always had one $5 game but those days are over… To find the better deals these days you have to head to the North Strip (Sahara, Stratosphere, Riviera, Circus Circus) or go downtown to places like Binion’s or the 4 Queens. It can be done but you have to be willing to search.

drake_romorey asked on 03/03/06

Can anybody tell me the difference between a standard and a deluxe room at Excalibur, it doesnt say anywhere!
Thanks.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

The deluxe room is slightly larger, with a small sofa (love seat) in it.

drake_romorey asked on 03/03/06

Can anybody tell me exactly what state the Aladdin is in at the moment? Would you stay there in April or is it a building site?! Thanks!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

There are certain areas under construction inside the casino – some spots are walled off. Generally they are working to minimize disruption. After having been inside recently, it’s not so bad. If I was staying there I wouldn’t be too worried. Unless you’re extremely fussy, it shouldn’t be a problem.

tiffanykmg asked on 03/03/06

Hi,
Could you please give me an indication of the prices for the Mirage over NYE? I know it’s early, but i would like to know from past years how much it approximately costs for 4-5 nights. Have they done packages in the past? Other hotel recommendations (and prices) would also be appreciated!!!
Thank- you!!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Yeah, it’s a bit early. They often do packages if they’re not totally full. Right now, rates are in the $400 range for the 30th and 31st, with them dropping off quite a bit in days before and after. I’ve done NYE at The Mirage a couple of times – great spot, especially these days now that they have STACK, Jet, Fin and soon Japonois.

joes87 asked on 03/02/06

Hello, my wife and I will be visiting Vegas in June. The last time we were there (our first time) my wife was a little hesitant to play table games. I really enjoy craps and blackjack. I would like for my wife to play these with me. I do know some casino’s run classes, do you know which ones? Also, can you recommend some of the better places for newbies to gamble on the strip?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Most of the Strip casinos do run classes, almost always in the mornings when the tables are dead. Ask a host in your casino about classes – I’ve seen them advertised recently at TI (9am weekdays) and Excalibur (9:30am). Just ask – they’ll help you. As far as low pressure joints, usually the lower limit places are less uptight (and the players are less crazy about other players making honest first time mistakes). Places on the North Strip like the Stratosphere or Sahara see plenty of table virgins. Even places like The Mirage and TI are nice to first timers as long as you tell them and you’re respectful. You might be surprised how accommodating they can be.

vegaslova asked on 03/02/06

Hi Hunter.
I’m off to vegas for 10 nights in June. This will be my 3rd trip (first in the summer months!) I have stayed at Boardwalk, Flamingo and Aladdin, howveer this time due to cost, I am staying at the New Frontier. I’ve read lost of negative stuff about this place; should I consider changing my booking? Or should I grim and bear it – its not far from the main action anyway? Appreciate you comments, Simon 24, UK

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

The Frontier’s casino is pretty grim and not that great but the rooms are clean and livable. You’re across the street from Wynn Las Vegas and not too far from The Mirage and TI. If the cost savings will help you do other things on your trip and you don’t mind walking a bit to hit up some nicer digs, then I wouldn’t worry too much. Sometimes the budget requires certain concessions and you could do worse than the New Frontier. If you didn’t mind the Boardwalk then the New Frontier won’t be much of a shock.

arkoystrakh asked on 03/01/06

I am going to stay in Paris and want to upgrade room to see Belagio and Strip. I know that check in could be done in the airport, but where better to use $20 trick for upgrade?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

At the airport it’s tough. Most people have more luck at the hotel.

chrisjburgin asked on 03/01/06

Hi Hunter, awesome site, just have a couple of questions. My fiance and I are going with my parents on our anual trip to vegas this March (13-17). I have been to vegas a good amount but this is there second trip. My fiance and I want to go out to some bars and “ultra lounges” (we are 24 by the way) and we want to bring my parents, however we don’t want them to feel uncomfortable … any good suggestions? and as a follow up I was thinking about checking out the ghostbar (we would be going monday). Should the line be ridiculous (I.e. more than 30 minute wait). Oh and just incase you were wondering we got the two bedroom suite at the mirage… as per your suggestion in these reviews… I hope to have fun!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

On a Monday I wouldn’t expect the lines to be too bad. As far as ultra-lounges go, try Lure (Wynn Las Vegas). They attract a good mix of young and older (but not old) people. Jet at The Mirage could be fun but it is a full blown nightclub. Mist at TI is a very small ultra lounge but that’s next door and could be good. You’ll love the suite. It’s a great room.

lafogdog asked on 02/28/06

Hunter,
Have you ever heard of a website called napkinnights. com? The site claims that if you put your name on the guestlist you can get into certain clubs free. Do you know if this actually works?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Never heard of it. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. They may promise a lot but the fact is, if you show up the club doesn’t have to honor any list and often times they simply aren’t going to let you in. The bouncers do what they want. If it is free it can’t hurt to try but I wouldn’t get your heart set on it. The only thing that works every time? $$s. In the form of table/bottle service.

carol asked on 02/28/06

Can you give me any feedback on Marriage can be Murder playing at Egg & I? Is there pre assigned seating or what? Four of us going. Thanks.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Sorry, no info on this show. Let us know how you like it.

saguinaga7 asked on 02/28/06

Me and my husband are visiting Vegas this weekend (3/3/06 to 3/5/06) and we are traveling on a limited budget, do you suggest any restaurants(all types open) and what time is the best time to beat the dinner lines and crowds?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

There are tons of restaurants in this range and I’ve answered this question many times. I suggest that you do a few things: search this site using the search engine in the upper right for low cost/cheap restaurants. Also, buffets offer great values, especially at lunch (or right when they convert lunch to dinner). As far as good times, 4pm-5pm is when the last of the lunch folks are leaving and the dinner folks are coming around.

t00bonita asked on 02/27/06

how cn you get discounted rates at the luxor

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Your best bet if you don’t have a slot card is to head to the Web site and sign up for special offers on their mailing list.

joes87 asked on 02/27/06

Hello, My wife and I are coming to Vegas in mid June and staying at the Paris. Two years ago, we stayed at Paris and were offered an upgrade when we checked in. Do you know if this is common? We would really like a suite this time and dont mind paying for it. Also, how crowded is Vegas in mid June.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

It is not overly common but it certainly does happen sometimes. Your best bet is to book the room that you want directly – that way you know what you’re getting. June is starting to get pretty hot – the crowds dip very slightly but it’s still pretty crowded – these days Vegas is crowded all the time.

29 asked on 02/26/06

Hi. We are hoping to take a first trip to Las Vegas in August. My 14-yearold son loves video games….is there a decent-sized video game arcade at MGM Grand, that will keep him amused?
Also, as a second question (hope that’s OK?) what sort of Blackjack table minimums should I expect a the MGM in August? Thanks ever so much for our help

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

The MGM Grand’s facilities for kids have been seriously downsized in recent years but right next to the Grand is ‘Gameworks’, which is a huge video game arcade. As far as limits, it depends. Weekends will probably be $10-$15 while weekdays should be $5-$10.

jrmc72 asked on 02/24/06

I recently heard that the NBA will be having it’s All star weekend in February of 07 in Las Vegas. I know it’s really in advance but do you have any information on this?

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Yes, that’s correct. It will be held at the Thomas and Mack center at UNLV. Other than that, virtually no planning has been done.

slimlucky asked on 02/24/06

Hello hunter,1st time long time love he site. Here is my question is there a better or should I say a good time to use the $20 trick Early check in,on time,late check in? Last time went I got scared, also I got in to town late.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

No way to say – any time of day can be good or bad – you just have to try it and see if it works. If you strike out, try again next time!

jar77 asked on 02/23/06

Hunter,

Good info here.

March Madness suggestions. Better to get up early and fight crowds at the sportsbooks hoping to get free drinks that will probably never come due to HUGE CROWDS or simply put in bets and head to a local sports bar like PT’S.

Any suggestions for alternate places that will be showing the games.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

No matter how you slice it, anything sports related in any casino is packed for MM. If you are dedicated to watching the games and you’re not a casino high-roller that can get reserved space, waking up early is the only way to get a spot at the books. Still, even local joints are packed with overflow from the casinos and local (yes, people live in Las Vegas ;-)).

glopez asked on 02/23/06

what is the best water park in vegas, and what is general admission. Also what is best theme parks, rollercoasters

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Wet N’ Wild, the only park on the Strip, closed in 2005. The ‘family thing’ has seriously fallen out of favor with the resorts – the MGM theme park has been closed for several years. There are rollercoasters at NYNY, Sahara, Stratosphere and Circus Circus.

ericmcd asked on 02/23/06

Hi! Heading to vegas for a second time with a group of 6 guys in our early to mid 20s. Aside from the palms and mandalay bay (stayed there last time), would you recomend any other hotels (was looking at Mirage, Luxor or TI) that might be hipper to the younger crowd? Also the group im headed there with this time is more of a bar/louge crowd then a clubbing crowd. Can you recomend any good bars/pubs/lounges. Thanks! Great site!!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

I would give The Mirage a try. The crowd has been trending younger with the opening of Jet (nightclub) and STACK (restaurant). These days, you basically have two kinds of nightlife: full blown nightclubs and then ultra-lounges, which are basically nightclubs without dance floors. Reasonable ultra-lounges in the area of The Mirage include Lure (Wynn Las Vegas), Tao (The Venetian), Mist (TI) and Caramel (Bellagio).

JayPhilly asked on 02/22/06

What’s the word on the openng date for Tower A of the three towers at the new Residences at MGM condos? A good friend of mine has a unit in Tower A and he says that I can have it for two weeks as soon a it opens; he has paid everyting owed and is ready to close, but can’t seem to be able to get a straight answer as to when he will get keys and be able to move in. I have heard that it might be April or May and would really like to start making plans.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

They don’t have an absolute date but they are taking reservations for units offered as hotel rooms for May of this year, so they should be open by May for absolutely sure.

davidmf asked on 02/22/06

Came across this site while searching for fun about the Villas at the Wynn, great job!, We stayed at the Wynn last year and fell in love with the place, like many others so it seems, IMHO, I think the Wynn you either Love or hate there’s no in-between, but that’s another discussion. My Question, We are going for 5 days this Summer, last year we paid extra for the Panoramic View on the higher floors, which we did enjoy, I am thinking about paying extra and going for a Tower Suite Room, are the Tower Suites on the high floors? Is the Extras (Separate Check-in, Pool area, Restraint, anything else?) worth it? Thanks Again for a Top Vegas Site!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Tower Suite rooms are located in the South part of the tower on all low and high floors. Yes, it IS worth it. It is an entirely different experience (better). You really feel like you’re in a different hotel – they’ve done a great job of making it worthwhile.

bdugan asked on 02/22/06

Just found you, Super informative. My son & I are staying at Wynn Mar 12-17 through Funjet ($720 pp w/ airfare from Buf). Is there any places to eat BF & lunch without giving up my first male born son? Places close by? Will $20 trk work at this place for comps or upgrades? Beginning to wonder if Wynn is over our heads. Any info would be great. Again, Awesome site.

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Thanks. The Terrace Pointe Cafe is their coffee shop and while the prices in general are above other coffee shops, there are certainly some dishes that are less expensive than others. Beyond that, Sugar and Ice has pastries and coffee. Across the street is Treasure Island, with a few lower priced dining options including an inexpensive buffet. Hope that helps.

Mikeynla asked on 02/21/06

Hunter,
Was in Vegas this past weekend at the new South Coast (great holiday weekend rate of $79/night!). On the shuttle to Barbary Coast, our driver spoke of the plans to implode Circus Circus by the end of the year. Now, I’m not a huge fan of C2, but I know that they do pheonomenal business (and I admit that I will miss Slots-A-Fun!)… Is C2’s demise really that close? Thanks as always!

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

Not even close. Total rumor mongering. Don’t expect anything in regards to Circus for at least 4-5 years. It makes money and MGM MIRAGE is really busy with other stuff right now.

jkipe asked on 02/21/06

I am looking for a seating chart for Wayne Newton’s show at the Flamingo. Can anyone help me? Thanks

Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:

They don’t publish a seating chart online. You might try asking the box office to fax you one. This page features a viewable 3-d image: Flamingo Showroom.