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RateVegas User asked on 10/28/02
I’m attending my husbands business meeting w/him and am curious about dress codes. If a restaurant state that it is “resort formal” or “resort semi-formal” what would be the correct dress?
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Usually it breaks down like this:
Resort Semi-Formal:
Men: Shirt with collar, slacks
Women: Dresses or dress suits
Resort Format:
Men: Coat and Tie
Women: Dresses or dress suits
Basically, “dressy”.
RateVegas User asked on 10/27/02
You have a great site, wish I had discovered it before my last trip. We are going to Las Vegas Nov. 10-13. We are trying to decide between staying at the Luxor and the Alladin. The Luxor is $20 cheaper on the Sunday night but otherwise for a standard room the rate is the same. We are considering staying at the Alladin but are a little worried about their financial situation. Which hotel do you prefer? We are looking for a nice room that you can’t hear noise from the other rooms and good service. What would you recommend? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Both are nice hotels… I wouldn’t worry too much about the Aladdin’s finances. While they are still in Chapter 11 and losing money, I’ve stayed there twice in the last year and both times the service has been at high levels. I personally think that the Aladdin has a superior location. Both hotels offer a similar quality experience.
RateVegas User asked on 10/26/02
what comp card should I get whenI go to LAS VEGAS next month Iam staying at Harrah’s.which ones offer the best comps on food and money back
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You should pick up a card in any casino that you intend to gamble in. Always use your card when you play. Downtown casinos are usually a bit easier when it comes to comps and the best cashback can be found at off-Strip properties, but even as close as the Palms.
RateVegas User asked on 10/26/02
I’ve booked a room at the Flamingo and the reservation comes with Park Place Entainment Discount coupons worth over $1000 – redeemable at the Flamingo and sister properties. Do you know what the sister properties are and the sort of things we can use the coupons for.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The following casinos are owned by Park Place Entertainment in Las Vegas: The Flamingo, Ballys, Paris, Caesars Palace, and the Las Vegas Hilton. The coupons should include special deals on meals, show tickets, and other souveneirs. They are usually a great extra value.
RateVegas User asked on 10/26/02
We were planning on staying at the Aladdin Resort but have heard its in financial trouble, now we are considering The Venetian. I do want a newer resort to stay at. I would appreciate any kind of input.Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I wouldn’t worry about the Aladdin’s financial trouble in terms of your stay. They have sizeable resources provided by their lenders to stay in operation. They have been in financial trouble since day 1. I’ve stayed there twice in that time with no trouble… The Venetian is a wonderful resort, certainly a notch above in quality. If you’re considering the Venetian, give the Bellagio a look as well.
RateVegas User asked on 10/25/02
Hi, Do you know how I can get a copy of the Golden Nugget bread pudding recipe? Thank You, Donna Shoemaker
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Click back to one of the first pages in this Q&A. I’m fairly certain it is listed there.
RateVegas User asked on 10/25/02
I am looking for 2 for 1 coupons for the Tournament of Kings in March 2003. Where can I look?
Thanks,
Debbie
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I am not positive such a coupon exists, especially so far in advance, since promotions change often. The best places to look for coupons are: Showbiz Weekly magazine and/or a subscription to the Las Vegas Advisor.
RateVegas User asked on 10/24/02
what casinos in vegas or laughlin have the best winter pools and hot tubs.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Well, we don’t really cover Laughlin, so I’ll stick to Las Vegas… Most LV casinos have pools open in the winter, though some do use that time for maintenance on those facilities… The Tropicana is famous for keeping hut tubs open year ’round and all night. Other good winter pools: Mirage (except for January – CLOSED), Mandalay Bay, Bellagio and the Flamingo.
RateVegas User asked on 10/24/02
I need to know how did Las Vegas start on it’s hotel industries
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
After gambling was legalized in Nevada in the 1930’s, small hotels sprouted in Las Vegas… The construction of nearby Boulder Dam (now Hoover Dam) really put the area on the map. The downtown area evolved first, followed by the first Strip casinos in the early 40’s. Soon, resorts like the Sahara, Tropicana, Dunes, and Sands began to take shape. The Strip became a focal point for development and as demand increased, these resorts added more rooms. Eventually larger hotels replaced smaller ones and we ended up with the Las Vegas Strip that we have today… This is a VERY abbreviated attempt on this question, as there are whole sites devoted to this topic. Check out LV Strip History.
RateVegas User asked on 10/23/02
We’re staying in Las Vegas Nov.17-20. We’re going to try the $20 trick (which worked before at Paris!). Last visit, we stayed at Mandalay Bay in April. We loved all the restaurants, the room, and especially the pool. We have 2 reservations for our upcoming trip. $129/night (but I think I can get $79 now) at Aladdin and $89/night at Mandalay Bay with 2 for 1 spa pass and 2 for 1 breakfast at House of Blues. You decide! :) Our priorities are: pool, gym, buffet, room. Gambling is done off strip (yes, we are their worst customers!) So what do you recommend? We did go to the buffet at Aladdin as well and thought it was great and a great deal with a 2 for 1 coupon. We’ll have a car. What do you think?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Do you feel like trying something new? If so, that’s a plus for the Aladdin… Staying center Strip can be a whole different ballgame than staying on the far South end at Mandalay Bay. You mention that a good pool is important to you… Mandalay Bay has the best pool in Vegas, hands down… I wouldn’t say the pool at the Aladdin is spectacular… But, in late November it is pretty cold in Las Vegas so you might not be spending all that much time at the pool (maybe you like the cold?). I think the buffet at the Aladdin is a lot better than the Bay Side Buffet at Mandalay Bay… The gyms at both properties are comparable, but the Aladdin’s is a tad newer. Both properties have very nice rooms (I think the rooms at the Aladdin are one of the nicest parts of the property). If you stay at the Aladdin, ask about getting a ‘Resort Room’. This is a notch above the standard room and is quite a bit nicer… You mention that you gamble off-Strip… While I agree the odds are usually better there, the Aladdin does offer some good table games… Neither property has the greatest slots or video poker. Whatever you decide, I’m sure you’ll have a great time.
RateVegas User asked on 10/23/02
What is the most fun restaurant celebrate a 30th birthday?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not knowing your price range, it’s hard to say. Also, not sure what makes a meal “fun” for you. Restaurants where I have had “fun” meals: Prime, Olives, Delmonico, Mon Ami Gabi, and Mikado… But that’s mainly because of the folks I was with!
RateVegas User asked on 10/22/02
First time vegas visit (Jan16-20). love to gamble (boats/atlantic city)plan on having a credit line of about 5-6k. Tenatively booked at LV Hilton due to membership in their hotel club and cost $99 night. With hopes of getting comped for upgrade room or at least dinners. Going with my dad (me 40, he 70) – golf during the day
How is the Hilton’s casino? Would you recomend others? Do any of the hotels comp golf rounds. Any help appreciated. Want to stay in nice room, but casino experience is more important to me.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The casino at the Hilton is nicely kept but fairly small. When you compare it to the giant casinos on the Strip, it feels tiny… That said, the property is very nice and being off the Strip, gives you a bit of a more calm feel… As far as golf goes, some (most) casino hosts will comp golf if your play justifies it, but it can be one of the harder comps to get, especially if the corporation doesn’t own a golf course. The best courses in town are owned by MGM Mirage… If you’re credit line is 5k for 5 days, you should have a good chance at some good comps… Make sure you get rated if playing at tables and/or have your slot card in at the machines!
RateVegas User asked on 10/22/02
How long will it take me to walk the distance between the Flamingo Hotel and the nearest Dennys resturant.
Thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The nearest Denny’s is inside the Casino Royale, which is not far from the Flamingo… Walk North on the Strip past the Imperial Palace and Harrahs, then duck into Casino Royale and you’ll be there. You could walk it in under 10 minutes easily.
RateVegas User asked on 10/15/02
I will be partying in Vegas for New Years 2003 and celebrating my 21st birthday what recommendations do you have for fun popular (not trashy) nightclubs or lounges?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You’re going to have a crazy birthday… I was in Vegas for my 21st birthday a couple of years back and it was a lot of fun… I can’t imagine combining that with NYE. Anyway, a couple of things to keep in mind:
Vegas is VERY crowded for New Years. I mean VERY crowded. On NYE, the Strip is closed to motor vehicles and fills with so many people you can barely move… Basically you end up waiting in long lines for everything.
Also, many clubs will have special parties or cover charges for NYE, trying to cash in on all the people that are there.
Finally, a list of fun places to party:
Nightclubs: Ra (Luxor), Rain (Palms), rumjungle (Mandalay Bay), Studio 54 (MGM Grand), Drai’s (Barbary Coast), Light (Bellagio), the Beach (off-Strip).
Bars: Ghostbar (Palms), Voodoo Lounge (Rio), Jack’s Velvet Lounge (Venetian), Venus (Venetian).
Have a great time!
RateVegas User asked on 10/15/02
going to vegas for the weekend and staying at the monte carlo, what would be the best way to upgrade our room? What are some great restaurants which should not be missed
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The best way is to ask! If you want to try the $20 trick (see FAQ link at the top of this page), feel free… Just be nice and you may get what you want… As far as restaurants, here are some of my favorites: Emeril’s Fish House at MGM Grand, Delmonico at the Venetian, Bellagio Buffet at the Bellagio, Caribe Cafe at the Mirage, Lotus of Siam (off Strip), and Olives at Bellagio. There are so many great places to eat, that only scratches the surface.
RateVegas User asked on 10/14/02
I am trying to choose between the Hard Rock and The Palms for a trip in November. I am 30 and looking for a decent scene. I have been to the Four Seasons, Mandalay, Venetian and Bellagio and want something a little different.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Both hotels are a great choice… The Palms seems to be a bit hipper, I think mainly because it is still so new. Both have very active danceclubs and places to meet people. I don’t think you’ll go wrong with either choice.
RateVegas User asked on 10/14/02
Great website – lots of helpful info. Question – I have booked a room at Monte Carlo for our first trip to Las Vegas, at the beginning of Dec. Now I have read several negative reviews that refer to thin walls, and I don’t see many positive reviews here either. I’m a little worried that I may have not made a good choice! We want our stay to be pleasant – we’re not gamblers, just want to experience Las Vegas and see the sights. We don’t need extravagence but are looking for comfort with a few extras. What do you suggest?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! As far as the Monte Carlo goes, I think I submitted one of the reviews about thin walls! I don’t think the Monte Carlo suffers from any fatal flaws. Overall, it is a fairly well kept property. I think that if you decide to stay there, you’ll have a great time… I also think that the next time you come to Las Vegas you’ll want to try staying elsewhere. There are so many outstanding places to stay and in my opinion, the MC isn’t on that list… If you want to consider another hotel take a look at Paris, the Mirage, and perhaps Treasure Island. No matter what you decide, you’ll have a great time.
RateVegas User asked on 10/14/02
My husband and I will be coming to Lake Las Vegas the 1st week in November. I have never been to Nevada and have no idea what the weather is like there at that time of year. What is the average daytime and nighttime temperature? Also, what is the usual attire for guests at the Lake Las Vegas Resort?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The attire for guests in most Nevada resorts is casual. At the same time, you won’t look out of place if you dress up. You’ll see all sorts of folks… Las Vegas and the surrounding area is a high desert plain… That means the winter is fairly cold. Expect temperatures in the low 70s during the day and the 50s at night. Bring a jacket!
RateVegas User asked on 10/13/02
What is the P-Rate
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not sure. Please elaborate…
RateVegas User asked on 10/12/02
I was told that there is an ice bar located in Mandalay Bay,is this true?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, there is. It is called Red Square and features many different types of vodka. It is in the back of the property, next to the rumjungle night club.
RateVegas User asked on 10/10/02
Great Site! I am torn between staying at Treasure Island and Ballys…what would you suggest and why? (I chose these two hotels because they were the most cost-efficient for me and they also seemed to have the nicest rooms as seen on the internet) I’m concerned about price and quality. Also, what is standard tipping in Las Vegas for Bellboys, waiters, bartenders etc; Any help is great! Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! I consider both hotels to be a true bargain. They each have some specific strengths… I feel that TI has better rooms and service (really nice employees!) while Ballys has a better location. The location at TI isn’t bad, but it is not in the heart of the action like Ballys is. The rooms at TI are very nicely appointed for the price, probably just as nice as the standard rooms at its big-sister, the Mirage (though those usually cost more). Ballys has a full olympic size pool with a real deep end, while TI’s pool is kind of a disappointment. Both offer middle of the road dining options but have some great restaurants in the vicinity. I personally give TI the slight edge overall…
As far as tipping goes, a lot depends on the tipper. I personally will tip the bell boy a dollar per bag, sometimes more if they are nice. Bartenders usually get one dollar per drink, unless they are particularly good or bad. I tip 20% at restaurants for good service… Bad service depends… Again, it’s all up to you!
RateVegas User asked on 10/10/02
Hi, One more question: How comparabele are the rooms that we see on the internet to what we actually get? The Guest rooms at Treasure Island look amazing, but I am wondering how they really look compared to what I see online.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The pictures they use are all from real rooms but they are taken in optimum lighting conditions with some props added (computers, room service, etc…). The rooms should be pretty close to what you see on the TI Web site.
RateVegas User asked on 10/09/02
We will be gong to LV in November. Trying to cut all costs in order to stay longer we have booked the Garden Rooms at Lady Luck. Unfortunately all I have read indicated that this was a bad mistake. Is the Lady Luck so bad?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Lady Luck is a bargain hotel with few amenities compared to the larger hotels. If that’s what you’re going for, you should be okay… Expect something equivalent to a Motel 6 and you shouldn’t be disappointed.
RateVegas User asked on 10/08/02
Hi,
What a great site, I’ve found it really usefull.
I’m off for my first trip to Vegas at the end of Jan 2003. I’ts my 40th birthay (Oh God!) and we wanted to stay somewhere a bit special. After much web surfing we’ve booked on a suite at the Stardust, it looks great on the web pages and it works out over the week at $130 per night. I know its not one of the new hotels but it looked a lovely suite, 700 sq feet, and worked out cheaper than a mid range room at the Alladin.
Any views on the Stardust?
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! The Stardust has some great rooms. The suites in their tower are a great value. The only thing that might disappoint you is the location (North Strip) and the casino, which is not as elegant as in the newer resorts. If you don’t mind and plan on visiting other casinos all day long, you’ll most likely be quite happy! Have fun! Happy Birthday!
RateVegas User asked on 10/08/02
we hare staying at ballys in Feb.2003. We have kids ages 10 and 14. Is there a video arcade or shops and
eateries suite for them at Ballys
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Ballys does have a small video arcade but I’m not sure that children that age can be left unattended, if that is what you are implying. Even if it is allowed, I wouldn’t suggest it… If you’re trying to figure out stuff to do with your kids, there is also a great arcade called Gameworks just up the Strip, next to the MGM Grand.
RateVegas User asked on 10/03/02
Coming to Vegas with a group of friends for New Year could you recomend somewhere nice for a meal new years eve. Moderate price range. Also how far in advance could we book a table?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would suggest trying Olives at the Bellagio. Their price range is moderate and they have an excellent location. I would call the hotel and find out from the restaurant when you can book the table… You may find that a lot of restaurants have special meals planned for that evening that are more expensive… I would also give the Range at Harrah’s a call.
RateVegas User asked on 10/03/02
I’ve tried to book two adjoining rooms at several hotels (Mirage, TI, Excalibur) and have been told this can’t be assured because rooms aren’t assigned until check-in. We’re traveling with 3 kids and really need the rooms to be adjoining (obvious reasons!). Most of the hotels also charge an extra $25 for 3rd person in one of the rooms (yes?) I’m also worried because we’re driving and won’t get there until late at night; will there even be rooms available when we get there? How can I secure reassurance that our rooms really will be adjoining,and what about the $25 extra cost for 3rd person? Travel dates will be in December just before Christmas. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Depending on how far before Christmas, it may be one of the slower times of the year, helping your situation.
At most hotels, the normal rooms are assigned at check-in. Usually only suites are assigned in advance. The hotel will do everything that it can to accomodate your request, but they don’t guarantee that they can do it.
As far as rooms being available at all, if you have reservations they will have rooms. When you say late, how late? If you plan on arriving past midnight, I would let the clerk know when you make the reservation.
Most hotels do charge an additional fee per person above 2 people… This is a point of contention as most hotels don’t actually check… I know some people who don’t declare anyone above the first two. This is technically breaking the law so it’s your call on that one.
RateVegas User asked on 10/02/02
My wife and I plan on visiting Las Vegas in late February or late March of 2003. We prefer a room with a view and a Jacuzzi for two. Which strip hotel has a reasonable price that you would reccommend?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would suggest trying Luxor, Aladdin, Treasure Island, and Paris. They are all great mid-range properties.
RateVegas User asked on 10/02/02
I’m going to be in vegas 2 nights Oct17-18
how much is the rate per night at the Rivere Hotel
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
To check rates, click on the link in the sidebar.
RateVegas User asked on 09/30/02
we are staying at sams town this week and wanted to know if the rooms have hair blow dryers in them seems like a sill ? but dont want to mpack anymore than we need thank you
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Depending on the room type, yes. I would suggest calling the hotel to make sure the room you’re pre-assigned has a blow dryer in it. If not, request it.
RateVegas User asked on 09/30/02
I stayed at the Excalibur this last weekend and had aterrible encounter at the front desk. I would like to
contact the hotel via e-mail and explain their poor
way of handling the situation at the front desk and also
inform them that when things like this happen it really
makes people like me stay away from this hotel and look
elsewhere next time..E-mail for the Excalibur ??
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Excalibur doesn’t usually accept feedback via email. I would suggest writing a paper-based letter to the hotel manager and copy of the president of the hotel. You will almost certainly get a response.
RateVegas User asked on 09/30/02
Hello, I am coming to Las Vegas in November. I see the Suncoast rates in your top rated rooms. And is also considered a 4 star hotel. The rates seem very reasonable besides not being on the strip are there any drawbacks to this property.How does it rate compared to other hotels.Would you reccomend it?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Suncoast is a fabulous property, but about 15 miles from the Strip. That is the only drawback, and some don’t even consider it that big of a deal. Great staff, nice rooms, good casino…
RateVegas User asked on 09/28/02
Hi again Hunter! You’ve been such a great help to me in planning my vacation. 2 weeks to go!
Do you know if it is safe to ride the CAT bus system there in Las Vegas? We are thinking about giving it a try to save on cab fares to some of the outlaying casinos, but don’t want to get mugged or hassled.
Thanks again for your help!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Glad we can help! The CAT system is generally quite safe. I don’t know if I would consider riding it late at night… Treat it as you would a subway system in a major city…
RateVegas User asked on 09/27/02
How far of a walk to the strip is the Golden Nugget, or is there any kind of shuttle service to other hotels?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It is quite far, I wouldn’t walk it unless you are doing it just for the exercise… The Nugget is downtown on Fremont Street. The Strip (Las Vegas Blvd.) runs all the way downtown, but the area that contains the casinos is quite a distance… If you don’t want to take a taxi, you could consider the CAT bus system. It’s inexpensive and runs all day.
RateVegas User asked on 09/26/02
HOTEL’S ON THE STRIP WITH SPECIAL RATE IN THE $60 TO $100 HUNDRED DAL A NIGHT RANGE
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
On weekdays you should be able to find this pretty easily. Just check hotel Web sites. On weekends, much tougher. I would check Stratosphere, Sahara and Circus Circus.
RateVegas User asked on 09/23/02
I was wondering which hotels offer high internet access inside the rooms?
Mike
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Paris and Aladdin in all rooms (with a daily fee). Venetian, Treasure Island, Bellagio, Mirage, MGM Grand upon request. Expect more hotels to offer this service soon.
RateVegas User asked on 09/22/02
Hi Hunter! Thanks for your advice on staying at the Mirage. I called to confirm my reservation and asked for a room with a good view of the south strip so that we could see down to the NYNY, MGM, etc. The reservationist put me on hold and came back to say that the front desk manager said I need a volcano view, south wing. I don’t understand this. How will I be able to see down the strip if I have a volcano view? Can you recommend which rooms to ask for to get a good south strip view with 2 beds? She also said that unless I paid the $20 upgrade fee, I would absolutely NOT get any view except of the mountains. So I agreed to the $20 extra, but I wonder if this is really necessary. Also, I am still seeing a lot of negative Mirage reviews such as on tripadviser and citysearch and am a little concerned. I changed from the Paris to the Mirage to save over $400, but want a good experience. Can you quell my fears?? Thanks again for your help!!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Okay, first off, a South Wing volcano view might give you a partial view of the South Strip, but I doubt it. The best South views seem to be what they call a ‘Pool View’.
As far as paying the extra $20, no it is not necessary, but if you abstain, you are taking a chance. I have been given good views in the past without paying the fee, but you never know.
As far as quelling your fears, I don’t know if this helps, but I chose the Mirage as the hotel for my next trip… I really love the Mirage and without seeing the negative feedback, it is hard to take it on point by point. I think it is a great property and I stay there often. Of course, some people are looking for different things. The Mirage is a world-class hotel. Some people are more comfortable at smaller places or feel uncomfortable in such a ritzy environment, to each his own. I hope you have a great time!
RateVegas User asked on 09/21/02
I had booked 5 nights at the Monte- Carlo for the week of October 6th at the rate of $99 for 4 nights, and 1 night for $129. I found a better offer for Bally’s at $55 per night which includes a 2-1 buffet, spa admission and show. I recently checked the MC’s website and the rate is now $69.00. Is it worth switching back to Monte- Carlo or should I stay at Bally’s? I believe MC. has a better casino with more $5.00 tables and better odds.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Of the two locations, I personally prefer Ballys. I feel like it has a lot more personality than the MC. Also, I have been treated poorly in the MC casino, so I am somewhat biased against them… The decision is up to you, but I think Ballys is a great place to stay and to play.
RateVegas User asked on 09/17/02
What are your thoughts on the Orleans? I currently have reservations for $59 a night at the Luxor, but I have heard that my play will ‘go’ further in comps at the Orleans plus they are $39 a night.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Orleans is primarily focused on the locals scene, so they will take lower levels of play more seriously than the Strip based mega-resorts will. The Orleans is a very niec property, but removed from the Strip. If that doesn’t matter to you, you’ll probably have a nice time there… Or you could consider splitting up your trip, doing half nights at Luxor and half at the Orleans.
RateVegas User asked on 09/16/02
I have heard that the breakfast buffet lines are incredibly long. Any lesser known breakfast spots/buffets with good food near the south strip?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They can get quite long, especially on weekends… One tip you might use is getting a line pass if you’ve been doing any gambling in the casino. After a little bit of play, ask the pit boss or slot host for a line pass to the buffet. You’ll still have to pay, but you can skip the line!
RateVegas User asked on 09/16/02
We made reservations for Columbus Day weekend for a luv tub suite at the Imperial Palace. What should we expect? Also, would you recommend a strip sports book to watch college football. My son-in-law and I will wager a few hundred on the games. Will we get drink comps while we watch?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
My fave sports book by far is at the Bellagio. It is very comfortable and they have all the games on. If you’re placing bets, you should be able to get your drinks comped…
As far as the Imperial Palace, it is a polarizing hotel. Some people love it, some hate it. It certainly offers a good value. The room you specify is one of the nicer ones on the property, so you should be happy. It has a jacuzzi tub right in the room!
RateVegas User asked on 09/15/02
Hello. First of all, I’d like to say that this is a great site. I found very helpful information.
My wife and I are planning to go to LV in two weeks. We cannot decide between MGM (Grand Tower), Aladdin, Luxor or Palms.
I know that you haven’t stayed in all of them, but would you please suggest which one would you recommend for a young couple (early thirties)? What we’re especailly looking for is nice and newer rooms, and good service. Those four hotels are in the same price range. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks!
Well, part of the question is how focused you are on nightlife? The Palms is great in that department where MGM Grand and Luxor are above average and the Aladdin is a little on the below average side… All are nice properties… In my experience, the MGM doesn’t have the best service. I think it may be just cause it is so darned big… The Palms is a great place, but removed from the Strip so any casino-cruising will require a cab ride. This may not bother you. The gambling at the Palms is the best out of all of the above options… I think the Aladdin has an excellent hotel attached to an average casino… The rooms are nice and very new. At the Aladdin, try for a resort room. They are much nicer than the standard room… Luxor is a fun place with average service that is very far South on the Strip. I like to visit the Luxor often but rarely stay there. Have a great time!
RateVegas User asked on 09/14/02
Hi Hunter! I wrote you 2 or 3 weeks ago for some advice on whether to stay at Paris or Mirage, and gave you a lot of criteria. Based upon your feedback, I booked at Paris for an upgraded view room. I have continued to check all the rates every night, and on September 11, out of the blue, the Mirage dropped their rates dramatically, so I called and put a volcano view room on a courtesy hold. The total difference in the cost between Paris and Mirage is $480.00 for a 7 night stay. Now I’m in a quandry again: should I cancel at the Paris and go for the Mirage to save the money, or is Paris worth the difference?
Also, I know you like the Mirage. Do you recommend that I try the $20 trick there? Which rooms do you recommend as the best for a view of the volcano and the south strip (if any)?
Thanks again for your help!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
For a savings of $480, I would take the Mirage no question… That’s just too big to ignore. The Mirage is an excellent property! As far as the $20 trick at the Mirage, I’ve had little luck with them in that arena, but you never know… I personally like a South view room, as high as possible. The volcano looks about the same from the ground as it does from the room, and the novelty wears off quickly vs. the great view South.
RateVegas User asked on 09/12/02
coming to Vegas with 3 kids over winter. please compare Mirage, MGM and Excalibur for winter swimming, rooms,and family freebies.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
All should offer swimming of some kind, but beware, the Mirage usually does pool maintenance in December. If they are working on the pool, you can swim at Treasure Island, but the pool is not as nice.
I would rate them: 1. Mirage, 2. MGM Grand, 10. Excalibur.
RateVegas User asked on 09/12/02
I am going to be in Vegas the weekend of September 19-22 and wanted to know what to expect for weather. I am guessing hot during the day, but does it cool down much at night this time of year?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It will be comfortable at night… Probably in the 70’s. October it starts to get colder at night…
RateVegas User asked on 09/11/02
I will be staying at Bally’s October 6th- 11th at the unbelieveable price of $55 per night! We had originally booked Monte- Carlo, but switched when we found this deal. I have seem some websites state that the north tower rooms are a little better then the south tower. Is there any truth to this? I heard all the rooms have been remodeled recently. The view is not an issue. I don’t come to Vegas to look out a window for hours on end. Access to the pool, casino and restaurants are more important. Overall, is it worth asking for a north tower room, or should I just stick with the room they assign?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It is true that the rooms at Ballys have recently been remodeled… The original tower at Ballys is the north tower. Having stayed in both towers, there isn’t much difference in the standard rooms at all besides different views. The north tower is closer to the pool (which is quite a walk from the south). Both sets of elevators empty out into the casino with restaurants in all directions. It sounds like you’d be happy with either type of room.
RateVegas User asked on 09/11/02
This is a great site, I check out the Q & A’s weekly. I have a question about suites. Which properties have the best ones? I’’m going to Vegas early next year and would like to go all out on an awesome suite for a night or two. I have stayed in the tower suites at Mirage and Moroco suites at Monte Carlo both of which were nice, but I’m looking for something a little more extravegant around the $500-$1000 a night range. Thanks for any advice.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Mirage has some excellent Penthouse Suites. They feature leather furniture, remote controlled drapes, etc… I would also give the Bellagio a shot. Your best bet is to call the hotel and have them fax you a list of suites, since they have more than what are listed on the site… The ‘Cyprus’ suites are located in the rotunda area and are quite luxurious.
RateVegas User asked on 09/10/02
My parent, my husband, and our 14-month-old are planning a trip to Vegas in October. We aren’t sure what to do about car seat arrangements and a stroller. Any suggestions? Thank you.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
While you may be able to find someone that would rent you a stroller, I would recommend bringing your own. You can usually bring it to the gate and have it stowed there, with coats, etc… but check with your airline.
As far as a car seat goes, I assume you’ll be renting a car? Many agencies will rent car seats with the car. Make sure you request in advance or they may not be able to accomodate you.
RateVegas User asked on 09/08/02
Are there any pools open in the evening/night hours?
Are pools only for guests of the particular hotel?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most pools close at sundown but a few are open later… Check the Rio and the Palms for info on late-night pools. Pools are almost always just for guests of the hotel itself.
RateVegas User asked on 09/07/02
First I would like to say that this is a very helpful sight! My question is in regard to various postings about “line” passes meaning that the people didn’t have to wait in line for the buffets. (they were seated right away) What does that mean and how would you qualify? Thanks in advance for any assistance.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As you may know, in Las Vegas casinos offer “comps” or complimentary items to their gamblers. These can range from restaurant dining to free rooms to free shows. The line pass is probably the lowest end comp the casino offers. They let you skip the regular line at buffets and coffee shops and use the VIP line instead. They can usually be obtained by asking nicely at the slot desk or from a pit boss after you have put in at least a modest amount of play.