RateVegas - Las Vegas Reviews and Ratings of Hotels, Casinos, Restaurants and Shows
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donnymac asked on 04/30/12
Hey Hunter, love the site. Any chance of adding a restaurant review section for places at Fashion show mall, peppermill, Triple George Grill and other close to the strip/Fremont areas??
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hey Donny!
Thought about it a lot. Never say never.
I’d need to come up with a new rule for inclusion – right now it’s easy cause I can just say casino-hotel restaurants.
Still, there are a ton of great places that aren’t in the app/site and that’s a shame… So, it’s something I think about a lot.
brian green asked on 04/29/12
Taking friend to Vegas on his 21st bday. His drivers license vertical one. Will his vertical drivers license accepted
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hey,
If he’s 21, they should accept his ID. If he’s worried, he should bring a backup ID if he has one (passport, etc…)
Dennis B asked on 04/26/12
Sorry for all the Flamingo questions but we are planning a very nice 45th anniversary for us and a special 5th anniversary for two friends of ours and it will be their first Las Vegas visit and I guess I am encharged for getting the right hotel on the best part of the strip so I did pick the Flamingo but since I have booked both rooms I have been hearing all sorts of negative comments about their rooms so I thought I would ask you for the straight information. If I have bothered you I am sorry. This planning is a lot of weight on my shoulders because of the very special anniversary we will be having.
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s no problem. I didn’t mean to imply it was a bother. I hope you have a fantastic time.
mark fitzsimons asked on 04/25/12
Hi Hunter. Thanks for taking the time to answer questions, I regularly check the site to see your answers. I am hoping that one day you will make Vegas Mate available for Android. Anyway my question: I am going to Vegas in August and planning to stay at Wynn for the first time, in the past you have normally recommend staying in Tower room in suites section over the standard resort room. What are your thoughts on the Deluxe Panoramic corner view room; as I understand there are only 45 of these on the 27th floor and up. I haven’t been able to find out how many square feet these rooms are. The room rate is identical to the tower room bar the resort fee is payable on the corner room. Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Panoramic rooms are about the same size as a ‘Resort Room’ or a standard Tower Suites room – about 550 square feet or so.
The difference is that instead of just one set of floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ve got them on two sides. It’s a pretty incredible view and if you’re looking for something a little more special than a standard room but aren’t sure about going for a Tower Suites room, it’s a nice compromise. I have a good friend that swears by these rooms and says they are his favorite in Las Vegas.
As far as deciding between the two, you’ve got a better chance of a great view in the Panoramic. If a view is a key decider for you, that might make it simpler. Tower Suites will pamper you more but you could end up on the 3rd floor, you never know.
It’s a trade-off but fortunately, both are great.
shadow asked on 04/23/12
We will be in Las Vegas the first week in October and staying at the Flamingo. Our friends just sent some pics of the outside of the Flamingo on the strip and it looks like the sidewalk is gone and construction is all over the front of the hotels. Will it be this way in October ? Can you enter and exit the Flamingo and is there a lot of dirt in the air as you walk by ? By chance have the hotels reduced their prices because of the problems with entering the Flamingo or any of the other hotels that are blocked by the construction ? We are thinking about moving to another hotel because we did not know about this construction.
thanksVegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Caesars, who owns The Flamingo, are constructing a large outdoor dining and entertainment area called Linq in the space between Flamingo and Imperial Palace. This construction is now starting to spin up and will be going strong all summer. It could definitely impact the pool experience with noise. Dust is probably less of a problem but I wouldn’t write it off completely either.
If construction really bothers you, The Flamingo may not be a great choice for the next 12 months or so.
Dennis asked on 04/23/12
My friends just told me that they rented a fab luxury room at the Flamingo. I have never heard of them. How are they compared to a go room with a view ? Do they also have strip views ? Also I nned to know if any of the Total Rewards hotels have bathrooms with walk in showers ?
thanksDennis
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Man, you sure ask a lot of questions about The Flamingo. The Fab rooms are just what they are calling their renovated standard rooms. The Go room is still considered nicer, though they are a bit older. Some of the rooms have views, some do not.
Not sure what you mean by ‘Total Rewards’ hotels but some Caesars hotels do, sure. Most of them do, especially as you get into nicer room types.
Jim Zap asked on 04/20/12
Hello We are planning a trip to Vegas in June with our kids.(17 & 14) They want to spend most of thier time by a pool. What is your top 3 pools in Vegas. ThanksVegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hi,
For pools, your best bets are probably Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, and The Flamingo, in that order with Mandalay far away being the top spot.
Hope that helps.
Dennis asked on 04/10/12
This might be a duplicate because I did hit the enter key by mistake. By chance have you read or heard anything about Las Vegas having a big bed bug problem ? I just read a report on another Vegas site that printed an article from some Vegas newspaper that said bed bugs are nt choosy where they invade. Hotels like The Palazzo, Cosmo, Planet Hollywood, Harrah’s and the Encore to name just a few that has and have haed serious bed bug complaints from countless visitors. I was just curious . Have you heard or seen anything about this problem ?Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Bed bugs are not uncommon in hotels in any city in the world. Las Vegas, like New York, San Francisco, London, Paris, etc… does have reports of bed bugs from time to time. There’s no evidence it’s a ‘big’ problem.
Cougar willIams asked on 04/08/12
If my birthday is the 20 and I go to Vegas on the 17th, will I be able to get into 21 and older clubs and drink even with my 21sg birthday just a couple days away?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not if they check your ID… and virtually all nightclubs check every person’s ID.
So no, not likely.
lars becker asked on 04/07/12
what casinos on the strip have video poker machines with the double up feature. thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Video poker and slot inventory is not static. A machine that was there today may be gone tomorrow, especially with video poker as the software can be changed independently of the hardware.
I’ve recently seen these machines at Paris, NYNY, Bally’s, and Bellagio, though this is not a comprehensive list. They’re not all that uncommon, though a given casino may not have too many of them.
Phuong asked on 04/06/12
I have a group of girls going to Las Vegas for a bachelorette party. We are going to stay at the Cosmopolitan. Do they ever give out free stuffs like bottle of champagne, free meal tickets??? How should I ask for those?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sometimes they do, though it’s not all that common. Mention the purpose of your trip when you check-in – they may offer. If you’re extremely bold, you can flat out ask but the response probably depends almost entirely on the mood of the check-in agent. Cosmopolitan is not well known to excel in this area.
Richie asked on 04/06/12
Vegas is fast approaching, and I was wondering: who has the best spiked milkshakes in Vegas? BLT at Mirage? Burger Bar at Mandalay? or Holsteins at Cosmopolitan? Having dessert and getting a buzz sounds great to me!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I personally think BLT has the best, though Holsteins are pretty good too. BLT has a really convenient to-go area if you want to grab one and run.
Linda How long is the show ? asked on 04/03/12
Hi !
I was thinking about taking my hubby and another couple to the Mirage to see the Terry Fador show. What are your thoughts on the show ? What and where should we try to sit to get the best view ? . How long is the show and do they have a dress code ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s about 90 minutes. No real dress code to speak of – pool attire is not appropriate but otherwise, you’re good to go. The show has been very popular – if you’re familiar with his Got Talent stuff, it’s an extended version. As far as where to sit, there aren’t any expanded theatrics – the best views are up front, center.
Florence asked on 03/31/12
What are the current night clubs that the 30-something crowd frequents?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I can’t quite tell from your question what you’re looking for. For instance, a 30 year old may want a very different experience than a 39 year old. Generally, the most popular clubs in Vegas are places like XS, Marquee and Tao. For a quieter, more subdued experience, smaller places like Hyde or even Mandarin Bar are good choices.
Kristin asked on 03/31/12
Hey Hunter! Heading to Vegas April 12th, I tried the casino websites slot finders, but they seem a bit out of date to me. Do you know if the Grease slots are in any of the Vegas casinos yet? Any other new slots that are creating any buzz?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yeah, no one really has a great slot-finder. I was walking the casino floors this weekend and I didn’t see the Grease slots in any of the places I visited (Mirage, Bellagio, Bally’s, Wynn, Caesars, Cosmopolitan). I’m not much of a slot player myself but I definitely saw a lot of people playing Batman, Lord of the Rings, etc… Not exactly super new but recent.
Dennis asked on 03/30/12
OOOPS I forgot to ask. This site is so cool and very imformative. I fogot to ask a question about the Flamingo. I have read countless reviews about the Flamingo and it seems they rate about three stars on the average for their fab deluxe and fab luxury. My question is about their bathrooms. Are they as bad as most people say ? Were they renovated when the rooms were ? Is it true that the Go rooms are more deluxe but they are smaller with smaller windows?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! The bathrooms were renovated, yes, though in most cases, the tub/shower was not replaced. The base platform of both the Go rooms and the Fab rooms are about the same – they are both renovated versions of the original Flamingo guest rooms.
Dennis asked on 03/30/12
I hope this question is ok to ask but it does seem to be a hot topic for people who are going to Las Vegas.What is your opinion about the majority of hotels in Vegas charging a resort fee that can add up to be another night charged to your stay ? Is it really worth it for what it covers ? We stay at the Harrah’s chain (the Flamingo, Caesars, the Paris )and they DO NOT charge any resort fees . We will never stay at the hotels that do charge resort fees because in my opinion they are rip offs.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I’m basically with you – not a fan of resort fees and think they are a sneaky way to get a few extra bucks. On top of that, the services (specifically WiFi) that are included are often sub-par. Not cool!
Tige asked on 03/28/12
We will be in Vegas durring the 4th of July holiday. Are there any special events or activity that are a must see/do that week?
Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Strangely, the Vegas Strip is not traditionally a great spot for Fourth of July events and fireworks. A bunch of the local casinos have displays and we’re starting to hear more rumblings about Strip casinos stepping it up but in general, you want to head to a place like Sunset Station or Red Rock if you want fireworks.
Andrea asked on 03/28/12
Is the Voodoo lounge at the Rio still doing the front of the line and all you can drink for a certain price? Can’t seem to find it on any website anymore.
THANKS!!!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hi – unfortunately no, that promotion is no longer available.
Bruce asked on 03/26/12
I am a little confused about the pools at the Flamingo. I know the one on the top floor is for adults ony because the women could be topless. I also understand they have a large type family pool where the parents can take the kids. My question is do they have a pool that is for adults with out kids but is not topless ? There will be four of us over 40 that would love to lie around the pool but with out kids but is not a topless pool also . Is that possible ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hi – the Go/Beach Club pool was at one time a topless pool but these days that policy has been removed.
Dennis asked on 03/23/12
Are there any resorts outside of Vegas like the Red Rock hotel ? How far is the nearest city (such as Los Angelos ) that would have resorts ? How expesive would they be say on a Friday and Saturday compared to Las Vegas resorts and Red Rock ? Thaks p.s. great site.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sure, there are a bunch: Red Rock, M, Green Valley, various Station properties. Different price points and different experiences. Los Angeles is about 300 miles, or about four hours by car. Los Angeles resorts range quite a bit in price – typically LA hotel prices are higher than Las Vegas for comparable rooms.
James Ferguson asked on 03/22/12
I was recently cold called by an independent casino host/tour operator who works with many casinos worldwide. He claims he can get me full RFB at Cosmopolitan which would be great except…I dont gamble big enough to warrant it. If I take this guy’s offer and do not gamble to their expected level, could I be charged for things I was told would be comped, or does he assume that risk by extending me the offer? I dont want to feel pressured to play bigger than I am comfortable with.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I think you’re right to be wary – generally speaking, there is no free lunch. With something like this, it’s all about the fine print. Ask up front: what are you expecting me to play and what happens if I don’t meet your minimum? Ask if the comp is contingent on a certain level of play. If you book the trip, ask for a confirmation number and verify with the hotel that it’s valid and that it is comped.
dunny asked on 03/21/12
what hotel will let us throw a bday party with drinks and all that 100+ guests
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Pretty much all of the hotels will have similar policies here. A hundred guests is a lot, especially if that’s all at once. You’re probably looking at getting a small ballroom to accommodate that many people. Even a large suite is too small for a hundred.
Sue asked on 03/19/12
What can you tell me about concerts at Red Rocks amphitheater? Good venue?? Loud?? Casual attire???? I am a senior and am curious if it would be a good place for me to see the BBoys in May. Thanks for any info.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s a temporary structure so it’s not as great as some permanent theaters but they’ve been getting a bunch of shows and the reviews are typically good – people seem to be having a good time. Attire varies based on the show but for something like you’re describing, I’d expect casual. The venue draws mostly from the local community and Summerlin is relatively well-heeled. While their customer’s ages range quite a bit, they do cater heavily to seniors and in general, most everything that Red Rock does is at least relatively compatible with guests of all age groups. I haven’t been myself so I can’t say if it’s overly loud.
Danny asked on 03/18/12
I understand that the Fitz. has a new name . Is it still the same hotel inside as it was before ? I mean has the new owners upgraded the rooms and have they made any other interior changes ? Would the players club from the old Fitz. be the same as the new one ? How about the room prices and resort fees ?thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, the Fitz is in the process of becoming ‘The D’. Room renovations are planned but they’ll take a year or so to really be substantially complete. The interior of the casino will also be revamped but it will take time. Expect the players club to be rolled over to their new system. As far as room prices, no announcements yet but I expect they want to go after a slightly better customer so a bump of some kind is probably in the cards.
Florence asked on 03/18/12
I have a tower suite room booked at the Wynn in early April. I’ve stayed at the Wynn twice before, in their Salon suite in the first two years of being open. I was told that there were some changes in the tower suite entryway. Do you know of any other changes to expect?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Tower Suites have been completely revamped – both the lobby and the rooms themselves. The lobby is now more open and they’ve added a bar. All of the rooms were re-done over the past couple of years and typically feature a lighter color palette. In general, the upgrades and renovations have been well-received – I hope you enjoy it.
Misty asked on 03/16/12
Morning I have noticed that several people have asked questions about the Flamingo and you have had very good answers. We will be staying at the Flamingo for the very first time in late May and I also have a question or two about the rooms. What are the differences between the Fab Luxury and the Fab Luxury Go rooms ? Are the Fab luxury rooms actually two old deluxe rooms that are connected ? Do you know how high up the Fab Luxury rooms are ? Is t5he new Mob Museum a part of the Flamingo since Bugsy Siegel opned up the very first Flamingo years ago ? BTW this is a geart Vegas info. site.
ThanksVegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The old deluxe rooms that have been renovated are now being called the Fab Luxury rooms. At some point, they will all be renovated. The Go rooms are a little older than the Fab rooms but are also fairly recently renovated and feature updated furnishings and are designed to be slightly more luxurious. The rooms are located all throughout the buildings. The Mob Museum has sourced materials from all over but they aren’t connected to any Strip hotels.
Linda B. asked on 03/16/12
Does the Flamingo have safes in their rooms and do the windows in their Fab Luxury rooms provide a good strip view ?
thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Some of the Fab rooms have good Strip views, yes. Some do not. The rooms do have a safe, though it may not be large enough to accommodate something like a laptop.
Terri asked on 03/15/12
Going to be in Vegas for the first time in June for my daughter’s birthday.
I would like to know if there is someplace where she can dress like a showgirl and have her picture taken.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Good question! I’m not aware of any such opportunity but it’s a good idea. Showgirls are a common Las Vegas symbol but there are almost no shows like that on the Strip anymore.
Dennis asked on 03/15/12
Do you know if the Flamingo has suites ? If yes where are they located and and where can I find some info. about them ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sure, there are many different types of suites. They don’t include them on their Web site but if you call the hotel, they can give you all the details.
shadow asked on 03/13/12
We have been CET members for several years as well as Total Rewards members. I was wondering if you are a Total Rewards member can you go to any of the CET hotel pools without being charged ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
While rules are often broken for players they care about, I know of no established program to give access to other hotel pools. Hotel pools are typically reserved for guests of said hotel with the exception being the day clubs at places like Encore, The Mirage, Aria, MGM Grand, etc… Those day clubs charge a fee to allow people in, like a nightclub.
RICH KOZAK asked on 03/12/12
Do you know of a reliable limo service from the mccarron airport to the striop hotels?? thank again
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Las Vegas Limo are good peoples.
Ron M. asked on 03/12/12
We will be going to Vegas in July 2012. We want to stay at one of the Venetian properties (Venetian, The Venetian Tower, or The Palazzo). There are nine of us. We want a great experience. Which is the best place to stay? Best view, etc. Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Overall I’m not a fan of The Venetian and it’s sister property but if I had to pick I’d probably go with Palazzo. Venezia is scheduled to be remodeled but not until the end of the year. The Venetian itself is the oldest of the bunch.
Linda asked on 03/07/12
I understand that another casino will be closing soon. I read that O’Sheas will be shutting down on May 1st 2012. Do you know if Harrah’s still own it and are they going to do anything with it ? I have also heard that the employees of O’ Sheas have been given their 60 day notice. Will Harrah’s help them get other jobs :?.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, O’Shea’s is closing on April 30th. It’s being demolished to make way for Project LINQ. It’s still owned by Caesars, yes. Some employees are moving inside the company but some are being laid off.
RICH KOZAK asked on 03/07/12
friends are staying at the venetian,I will be stay at another strip hotel
may i visit the venetian pool with my friends as a guest??
thanks for any infor.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
So, technically they might frown on this but if your friend has his/her room key and you enter the pool area together, you should be fine.
Dennis asked on 03/07/12
Please forgive me but my wife said I forgot to ask these Flamingo questions.Have pity I have ben married to this woman for 44 years. l.o.l. How many stars would you give the Flaingo if one star was poor and five stars are excellent ? We keep reading different reviews that the rooms are still smelly and the carpets and furniture are very worn. Is this true ? Final question I promise. How would you rate the beds in the deluxe rooms and the Fab luxury rooms where once again 1 star is poor and five stars are very confortable ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Flamingo is a mid-class hotel. It’s probably in the three star range. The older, Deluxe Rooms are pretty tired and worn. The Fab and Go rooms are far more recent and more comfortable. Depending on which rooms the reviewers stayed in, I’m sure that some of them are very worn. The Deluxe Room beds are not that great… the Fab room has a nicer, newer bed that while not perfect is modern.
Dennis asked on 03/07/12
We love this Vegas site. It is one of the best for honest Vegas information. Anyway my questions. We will be in Vegas to celeberate 45 years of marriage and we are inviting another couple who hjave never been to Vegas . We do have reserved a Flamingo Fab Luxury room and they have a deluxe room.Does Flamingo have an adult pool that does not allow kids ? What are the differences between the deluxe room and the Fab Luxury ? Are the windows inn the Fab Luxury very large for looking out ? Do you know if the shower in the Fab luxury is a walk in or a above the tub type ?
We will be in Vegas on Oct. 7th. and was wondering if it is still hot enough to swim and are the pools heated ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thank you.
The Flamingo’s ‘Go Pool’ is 21+, yes. It may not be open that late in the year though – the hotel decides those dates at the end of the summer.
The Fab rooms are renovated versions of the normal, deluxe rooms. My understanding is that eventually, all the rooms will be renovated in this manner.
All Flamingo rooms have fairly large windows, yes. Not quite floor to ceiling but close.
The shower is a tub-combo type.
October is starting to get a little cold but they’ll at least have Jacuzzis that are heated.
Yoana asked on 03/05/12
I am planning to got to vegas and i like to check in a hotel in a Friday and check out on Saturday. My questions is can i make arrangements to check out a couple of hours later in a hotel?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most hotels offer later check-out but many charge you for it, sometimes as much as half of the nightly rate.
Faye Campbell asked on 02/21/12
Going to Vegas in June for my son’s 21st birthday. Would like to make a reservation at a restaurant on the strip that has good food but is informal and fun for the members of the party in their twenties, ie some music and a lively atmosphere.
Rest of the party are much older but they will just have to live with it!
Does such a restaurant exist? Most of the one’s I have looked at have poor reviews.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yeah, here are a few suggestions:
- Stack (The Mirage) – fun menu, generally a younger crowd.
- FIX (Bellagio) – same owners as Stack. Different menu, different hotel. Still, focus on younger patrons but solid food.
- Botero (Encore) – a bit more subdued but still aims for younger patrons. Steakhouse menu.
I hope that helps!
Jamie leen asked on 02/17/12
Orite I’m off to las Vegas in September with 7 lads where all 21 I was just wondering what sort of clothes do you have to wear to get into nightclubs , suits etc where stuck for what to take and we don’t wanna get there for them to tell us the dress code is suits in every nightclub
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Wearing a suit won’t hurt but it’s not required. Typically collared shirts, dress shoes and nice pants. No tennis shoes, definitely no shorts and no t-shirts. Sometimes you can get away with jeans but I recommend against. For example, the dress code at XS, one of the top places in town:
“Dress code is strictly enforced. No hats, oversized jeans, baggy clothing, or athletic wear.”
Generally speaking, the better you look and the more put together you are, the easier it is to get in.
Sherry asked on 02/17/12
As I was looking at the properties owned by Steve Wynn’s former Mirage Resorts company (on wikipedia), I noticed that they use to own the old Boardwalk casino where City Center is now and wondered why would Mr. Wynn owned such a low class joint like the Boardwalk?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They bought the Boardwalk for the land. Before Mirage Resorts was sold, they had plans to eventually build on that lot, though nothing was announced.
Wes asked on 02/17/12
My wife and I will be in Vegas in early April. We want to go downtown so to avoid the stop and go bus we were thinking about taking a taxi. Would you recommend this option or would the driver maybe long haul us? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Well, that’s always a possibility but it’s actually pretty rare and when it does happen, it’s typically from the airport to the hotel where there are a few easy ways to do it.
Taking a taxi downtown is a fine option – done it many times myself.
Maria asked on 02/12/12
Hi! Just wondering what your opinion is about the TI hotel. My fiance and I are going to Vegas this August and are researching places to stay. We want something not too expensive but not too cheap and in a good location on the strip. This is our first time going to Vegas!
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hi Maria,
I’ve stayed at Treasure Island/TI maybe a dozen times… It’s clean and well setup. Typically inexpensive. Location is not the best but not terrible. Easy walk to Wynn or The Mirage. Further if you want to get to Bellagio or MGM.
I’d definitely put Treasure Island on my list and if the rates are good, I’d not hesitate to recommend it based on what you’re looking for.
Have a blast!
Hunter
Emma Walker asked on 02/09/12
I am travelling to Vegas from the UK next year to get married and would like to buy some glass mugs/ steins as presents for the best men etc. However, I don’t want to have to bring them in my suitcase. Where can I find Vegas themed glass mugs near the strip?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I’d check out Hofbrauhaus (Paradise and Flamingo) or the giant souvenir shop at Sahara and Las Vegas Blvd. Either or both could probably fill your need.
Congrats!
Mark asked on 02/07/12
I just downloaded Vegas Mate last week and I love it! It’s a great app and I’m constantly on it researching my upcoming Vegas trip next week (Feb. 14-17). Also, I love the access to all the articles which are good reads especially when accompanied with a cigar.
I have a couple of questions: I had booked 2 tickets to Ka about a month ago and then eventually booked a Deluxe Tower Room at the Mirage about 2 weeks ago. I read somewhere (I believe on Expedia) that if I book a stay with participating MGM resort hotels, I can call their local expert concierge service and receive complimentary upgrades for various shows, one of which is Cirque.
My first question is, is this something they really do or is this just a marketing strategy to get you to book at one of their properties and then apologize later that there are no upgrades available at this time.
My second question is, if this truly is a perk for booking at one of their properties, do you recommend that I call their concierge before my trip to see what they can do as far as upgrades, or should I wait until I get there and speak to a concierge in person – which one would give me the best chance of a complimentary show upgrade? I should disclose that my seats to Ka are already pretty good – 5 rows back but we are off to the very right side. An upgrade to me would be getting more to the middle which I’m willing to give up rows for.
So do they really upgrade shows when you book at their properties?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks for using the app!
MGM has various programs for hotel guests that want to attend shows in their hotels (all of the Cirque shows except for Mystere are at MGM properties) – military discounts, hotel discounts, discounts for students, etc… Of course, all of these types of programs are ‘subject to availability’, which, as you have surmised, often means no dice. They also change them out, relatively frequently – what is available for one guest at one point may not be available for another one later.
When it comes to scheduling, I always recommend calling in advance vs. just showing up and winging it. The popular shows are full enough that waiting could easily mean you don’t get what you want. Call in advance. I always recommend that.
Ka has the ‘Golden Circle’ tickets that are seats they have designated as the best in the house. If they can help you, those are the ones you want to ask for.
How good are your chances? It’s impossible to say. Even if The Mirage is no longer offering this as an explicit program, the concierge may be able to help you anyway. Never hurts to ask.
Have a blast!
Rick asked on 02/07/12
Going to the Encore in early May to celebrate 46 years of living (so far). Looking for a phenomenal meal on the special night and am looking at three choices: Sinatra, Cafe Society, or The Country Club. Which would you recommend, and please give any food recommendations you might have. Thank you for your help, and keep up the great work!
Rick
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Congrats!
I like all three of the restaurants that you mentioned, though Society is much more casual than the others – if this is a special occasion, you’re probably best off at Sinatra or Country Club. Society’s food is good but the atmosphere is very informal.
Between the other two, I’d personally pick Sinatra over The Country Club. Sinatra is a very romantic space and has some great food. Start at the bar, have a cocktail and then settle in for a nice meal. The osso bucco, if they have it, is amazing. I also really enjoyed the chicken parmesan.
I’ve also had a few good meals at The Country Club, and while the view there across the course can be amazing, I give the food edge to Sinatra. That said, if for some reason Sinatra is unavailable, The Country Club is definitely not a bad choice.
Romaman asked on 02/05/12
This isn’t a Vegas question but it regards the Beau Rivage in Mississippi.
The question I have is why Steve Wynn decided to build it in Mississippi. Why Mississippi? Theres a few casinos there and thats about it….nothing fancy. Why didn’t he build it in AC?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Having been to Beau Rivage myself, I can say it’s a beautiful property.
As far as why, it’s important to look at the historical context. At the time, Las Vegas was re-surging and Mississippi was being heralded as the next big thing. Wynn had exited Atlantic City after their Casino Control Commission started to give additional scrutiny to his operations – they were able to make a clean exit with a lot of profit and avoid the hassle of the additional regulation.
Biloxi was supposed to be the South’s AC. That didn’t pan out.
Dennis asked on 02/04/12
I love this place for getting really good Las Vegas info. Here are my questions. I have several comped nights thanks to Total Rewards. I was about to make reservations at the Flamingo and stay in what they call their Fab Deluxe. I could also stay in one of their Fab Luxury rooms. Well today I8 receive an e.mail from the Flamingo saying that they are now offering comped nights in their excutive room. I am soooo confused. I have never heard of an excutive room in the Flamingo. Have you ? What are the real differences between the three rooms ? What rooms would have views of strip ? Where exactly are the excutive rooms ? Since all three are comped if it were you which room would you stay in?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks! The Fab rooms are somewhat new, upgraded versions sorta like the Go rooms they added a few years back. Ultimately, all of the standard rooms will be converted to Fab rooms and the Go room is considered an upgrade from the standard.
As far as views go, pretty much every room type is scattered throughout the building with Strip views. That said, most of the Executive rooms have Bellagio Fountain views, if that’s important to you.
The Executive Suites are typically a ~$25 upgrade from a Go room, though the furniture in the Go and Fab rooms are nicer because it is newer.
So, decisions, decisions… If it were me, I’d probably go with the a Go room and ask for the best view that they had.
Tyler asked on 02/01/12
Awesome site, very informative. I have a few questions for you. I will be getting married in Vegas on march 2. There will be some children in our party so we booked a group rate at circus circus for four nights. My future wife and I will be staying for a few extra nights and I am having a hard time deciding where to stay. Is it possible to find some good deals at the front desk for a suite on the night of your stay or better to book in advance. I have a lot of offers from lots of casinos on strip through my club cards but most are just for deluxe rooms. My fiance would like to have a Jacuzzi suite or at least a nice tub and separate shower. Any recommendations on Jacuzzi suites that are not outrageously expensive.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thank you and congratulations!
As far as jacuzzi suites go, some of the usual suspects are Mirage, Treasure Island, Luxor, New York New York and Imperial Palace. There are certainly others, including really expensive suites at places like Bellagio, Wynn, Encore, The Venetian and Palazzo.
Personally, I’d probably start at Mirage (Tower Deluxe rooms have tubs with jets, though they’re not super huge), Treasure Island (Petite Suite), Luxor (Jacuzzi Suite) in that order and see if one fits your budget and other requirements.
The prices will vary quite a bit depending on the dates so shop around and see. I definitely recommend booking in advance unless you’re willing to possibly end up with nothing.
Have a blast!
DoubleD asked on 01/24/12
Hi Hunter…I’m loving the updated VegasMate app. Congrats on your Trippie Wins too!
My Question: Mandarin Oriental. I’m thinking of taking my wife here for a long weekend, and was curious about the walk to Aria, Cosmo and Bellagio. We’ve heard great things about MO, and are willing to have a more relaxed Vegas trip. How long of a walk could we expect to Aria, to Cosmo and Bellagio (which has a train, i think)?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Wow, thanks so much!
Regarding Mandarin, here’s what you should expect – you leave the hotel on the ground floor and can either take the stairs or an elevator up one level to The Crystals. At that point, you walk maybe five minutes to either Aria or Cosmopolitan. Cosmo is actually probably a bit closer given that it is right up on The Strip.
For Bellagio, you can either walk into The Crystals and take the tram (which drops you at the very back of the property) or walk The Strip, past Cosmo and then enter from the lake-front. Honestly, the amount of walking between the two routes is probably the same and coming from the Strip might actually be a little faster. The CityCenter/Aria/Crystals/Bellagio/Monte Carlo tram is not really that convenient.
In both cases, unless walking is tough for you or you just really don’t like to walk, I don’t think you’ll find the route to be onerous.