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RateVegas User asked on 02/28/02
I think that your website is wonderful and very helpful. I have read almost every question and I still can’t believe that I have a question for you!
My husband and I will be going to Las Vegas July 21-26th and staying at the Bellagio hotel with a Lakeview room. Please tell me your thoughts on this hotel. We will also see Caesars Magical Empire as well as “O” while we are there.
Can you recommend the best Buffets as well as a couple of very nice places to have a good dinner??
My last question is about the “Twenty Dollar Trick” I have read it a couple of times from other’s emails, but can you explain it to me again and just tell me how to give the money, when to give it and will it be ok to not give the check-in person the money if they don’t have a room that is upgraded? Is there even a chance to get an upgraded room at the Bellagio even though we already have a lakeview room?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
First off, thanks for the kind words.
I think you will love the Bellagio. The hotel is very elegant, the casino nicely decorated and bright, plus the attention to detail there is evident.
The best buffets in the city usually include Bellagio, Paris, Mirage, Aladdin, and the Rio. Personally, I think that the buffet at Bellagio is head and shoulders ahead of the rest.
As far as the $20 trick goes: fold up a $20 bill. When the check-in clerk asks for your drivers license and credit card, have the folded bill peeking out underneath. Keep these items in your hand. Ask if any upgrades are available. The clerk will notice the bill, check the computer and let you know. If they say yes, hand over the bill with the other items. If not, hand them the other items without the bill. It is okay to not give them the bill if they can’t help you. They understand. That said, it will be tough to bump you at Bellagio. They are almost always full and the bump from a lakeview to a petit suite is pretty big… But you never know. Have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 02/27/02
I’m going to Vegas this summer and was curious if Caesars Magical Empire will still be open? I’ve heard that they’re planning to turn it into another nightclub. Thanks a lot.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This rumor has been going around for about a year. At this point, Caesars has no plans to remove the Magical Empire, though that may happen in the future.
RateVegas User asked on 02/26/02
any opinions on the MGM’lazy river. And any opinion on staying at that casino in general. I plan on making an October trip. Will the weather still be worth going to the pool?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s not as good as the one at Mandalay Bay but it is still fun. Comparable to the lazy river at Monte Carlo. I enjoyed my most recent stay at MGM Grand. The rooms were all re-done in 2000, with some very nice decor. October will probably be a little cold for the pool, but maybe not if it is the beginning of the month.
RateVegas User asked on 02/25/02
Is Circus Circus an OK place to stay? How is their pools? Also, how would you rate the Flamingo hotel?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you are choosing between the two, I would certainly choose the Flamingo. It has some distinct advantages: location (much better), good swimming pool, location, great views, and did I mention location? Circus Circus is a is an “OK” place to stay but that is about it. The pool there is nothing special…. It does have a great restaurant though, the Steakhouse.
RateVegas User asked on 02/21/02
Can you tell us all the Strip casino hotels that have nice outdoor pools. We’ve already seen Mirage, Mandalay, and Caesar’s pools on television, which are quite beautiful. Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I usually group the resort pools into categories… The best are probably at Mandalay Bay, the Mirage, Caesar’s Palace, Bellagio, the Tropicana, and the Flamingo. The next round of pools are okay… Nothing wrong with them but nothing that special either… These would be at places like Aladdin, Paris, Treasure Island, the Venetian, MGM Grand, Luxor, and Monte Carlo… After that, they are just plain swimming pools… If you want the best pool, head to Mandalay Bay. They have the wave pool, the lazy river and more… If you want a great overall casino with a great pool, try the Mirage.
RateVegas User asked on 02/16/02
Hello people, I am going to vegas in april and would really like to stay in a hotel with a jacuzzi, but so far, all the rooms i’ved checked cost an arm, leg and my pinky toe on the foot they left. Any recomendations? I’m trying to keep it under 2 bills a night. thankx
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hmmmm… Without knowing specific dates, it’s hard to say. I would try: Luxor, MGM Grand, Excalibur, NYNY, and Ballys. They all have rooms that fit that description and shouldn’t break the bank.
RateVegas User asked on 02/14/02
I’m staying at Harrahs on June 3rd for my 21st b-day. Which hotel/casino has the most fun crowd? Also, I read somewhere that you get more points on your casino card on your b-day, is this true?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Have fun on your 21st! I was in Vegas on my 21st birthday (not so long ago… I’m only 22 now)… Different casinos all have a different vibe… I’d recommend the following places for a “fun crowd”:
The Hard Rock – lots of young people. Some might think a bit pretentious, but others won’t notice.
Harrahs – Harrahs is just fun. The people there all seem happy and the staff are really nice. They usually have a couple of rockin’ lounges.
The Palms – Definitely check out the Palms. The couple of times I have been there it has been rockin’ and full of people having a good time. Also, if you’re willing to pay the cover, the Ghostbar on the roof is a lot of fun and always packed.
MGM Grand – This can be kinda hit and miss. Sometimes their circle bar entry area is quite happenin’… Other times not so much.
Bellagio – If you want a taste of that upper-class party vibe check out Bellagio. You’ll probably see a good amount of younger people here on a weekend, they’re just really dressed up…
Ballys – Seems to have that part vibe as well.
That’s probably a good starter list as far as casinos go. If you’re into nightclubs, check out Babys at the Hard Rock, rumjungle at Mandalay Bay, Ra at Luxor, Studio 54 at MGM Grand, Rain at the Ghostbar, and Drai’s After Hours at Barbary Coast.
Have FUN!
RateVegas User asked on 02/08/02
Have you heard anything about the Tuscany —good or bad? I’m thinking of staying there for my trip next month. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As of yet I haven’t heard much either way. I’ve just added it to the site so hopefully someone will put in their rating!
RateVegas User asked on 02/06/02
do any vegas hotels/casinos allow small dogs?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I have not heard of any major Las Vegas casinos that accept any dogs, except for seeing eye dogs. Some smaller motels like Travelodge and Motel 6 might be willing to negotiate.
RateVegas User asked on 02/05/02
Do you have any rates on the best places to get married on hotel property? There are millions of websites but I haven’t seen any that compare the prices and details.
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
There are two common reasons for this… The first is that the biz is highly competitive and the rates are changing all the time… The second is that the rate structures can be quite complicated and depends on so many different options you can pick from… The rate “levels” are usually similar to the cost of the hotel (i.e. Bellagio costs more than Treasure Island). If you are interested in getting married in Las Vegas, your best bet is to go there and talk with the Chapel Director… Start with these places: Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, Venetian, Paris, Treasure Island, and MGM Grand. Congratulations!
RateVegas User asked on 01/27/02
What casino on the slots has the best slots.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If by best slots, you mean loosest slots, this is not a cut and dry answer… Usually properties off the strip like the Fiesta(s), Sam’s Town, and the Station properties will have looser slots than on the Strip… Downtown is also better than the Strip… If you really want to play in a Strip casino, those further North will most likely have looser slots. Also, higher denomination ($1, $5, $10) machines are usually set to payback more than $0.25 and $0.05 machines. Good luck!
RateVegas User asked on 01/26/02
IS IT POSSIBLE TO RENT OUT THE MANDALAY BAY’S WAVE MACHINE FOR AN HOUR OR SO. IF SO, THEN HOW MUCH? AND CAN YPU BRING YOUR OWN BOARDS?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No, they don’t rent out the pool for private parties. If you are a big-time high roller, I’m sure you could arrange something… High Roller being someone who bets between $50,000 and $250,000 per hand… Otherwise, you’re stuck hanging out with the general public.
RateVegas User asked on 01/25/02
I am staying at the Aladdin for Super Bowl weekend. Is there anyway I can get a room upgrade.
Also what are the best clubs and how do I get on the VIP list.
Anything else a bunch of guys should be aware of that would make the trip a better time?
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you want a room upgrade, you can either try the $20 trick, discussed many times in this Q&A, or call the hotel and pay to be upgraded. The Aladdin has Resort and Resort Deluxe rooms that are bigger than the standard rooms and have better views… As far as getting on a VIP list for a club, you either have to know someone or be making large wagers in the casino to get considered. If those two don’t apply to you, try tipping the doorman… Though for the good clubs on a busy night, you’re talking about a $20 – $50 tip. As far as nightclubs, if you are looking to meet women: Baby’s at the Hard Rock, rumjungle at Mandalay Bay, Drai’s After Hours at Barbary Coast, or Light at Bellagio… For just music: Venus at the Venetian, Ra at Luxor, etc… A fun place to take the guys might be Shadow at Caesars Palace… It’s a bar that features women dancing behind paper screens… Think James Bond movie intro kinda thing. Have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 01/25/02
Ok I don’t think I did my Q/A in the correct place. So to make sure I will ask it here. I am going to Harrah’s FREE and want to know if the $20trick will work for me, since they know I am already staying free? And, btw this is a GREAT site!! I have been reading the Q/A’s and I have misunderstood this $20trick thing. You mean that if you get the cooperative clerk, that you DO get an upgrade at NO extra charge? I thought that it was just the chance to be able to get one, but that the extra charge will have to be paid. I have been going to Vegas for the the last 3 years, and until I stumbled across your site, I’ve never heard of the the $20trick. I just wish I could have tried using it before now when I was actually paying for a room.
Thnx a lot
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The idea is that the tip is the incentive for the clerk to give you the upgrade at no extra charge… Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. Since you are coming in on a timeshare and your room is free/special rate, you probably have less of a chance of it working. Good luck!
RateVegas User asked on 01/23/02
I am going to Vegas for my honeymoon next year. I have read that the Venetian is an all suite hotels with the largest “standard” rooms…I was just wondering if the size of their luxury suite is still a “suite” in the eyes of most people, or if I’d be better off getting a suite elsewhere. I am normally not picky, but I want a nice suite for my honeymoon. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
First off, congratulations! The Venetian is a first class hotel and their standard rooms are very large with the living area in a sunken part of the room, large bathrooms, etc… There are pictures of the rooms on this site… Go to the photos page and choose Venetian. Also, if you will be in Las Vegas soon, they have a sample room setup in the lobby of the Sands Convention Center next door. If you’re willing to spend some more money, the Venetian has larger suites available… Other hotels with nice suites: Bellagio, the Mirage, Paris, Aladdin, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, Caesars Palace, and Ballys.
RateVegas User asked on 01/22/02
which hotel/casinos have two adjoining rooms with a door connecting them—each w/queen size beds??
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Quite a few actually… Try: The Mirage, Treasure Island, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, and Monte Carlo.
RateVegas User asked on 01/10/02
This is my families first trip to Las Vegas. We will be staying at Treasure Island for in mid-April. My question has to do with the water temperature of the pool. Like many outdoor pools Las Vegas, I believe the TI pool is not heated. Do you know what the typical pool water temperatures are this time of year. Since my family likes to swim and enjoy the pool area, is this hotel a good chioce?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
In my opinion, Treasure Island is an excellent resort. That said, I feel their pool is a bit of a disappointment. It is somewhat small and is basically just a hole in the ground with some water in it… It lacks the elaborate landscaping you see at the Mirage and other places… Some Las Vegas pools are heated in the Winter and according to Treasure Island staff, their pool is heated depending on the weather. Hope this helps!
RateVegas User asked on 01/08/02
Great website. I’m organizing a reunion of about 10-12 guys for a Las Vegas trip. We’re all about 30 yrs old. We would like to stay in a good hotel where there would be ample opportunity to meet single women around our age — especially out by the pool and in the casino. What are your thoughts for the best places?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
First off, thanks a bunch for the kind words…
There are several resorts I can think of that would fit this criteria. I’m going to assume that cost is not a huge factor in my recommendations… As far as meeting single women, I would recommend the Hard Rock Hotel (though it is a few blocks off the Strip) or Mandalay Bay… Because of their very popular night clubs and their focus on the 21-35 year old market, the ladies (and men) seem to flock there. Both have elaborate pool complexes that wouldn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for something with a more central location, I would consider Bellagio or the Venetian, as both are making a push into that market as well. No matter where you stay, check out the Ghostbar at the new Palms resort across the street from the Rio.
RateVegas User asked on 01/03/02
My fiance and I are planning to honeymmon in Las Vegas (October 2002). We both think the Venetian would be a great place to stay, but it is fairly expensive. We were searching online for lower rates, and we did come accross a few. All are for what are called parlor rooms/suites. Are these any different than their standard suites? If they are different do you know how we can get a lower rate on a standard suite?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Venetian is one of the premiere resorts in Las Vegas. That being the case, they do have fairly high room rates. The “parlor rooms” are the same same as their standard room, which they call a luxury suite (really just an oversized hotel room, though very nicely appointed). It sounds like you are doing your homework regarding finding a good rate. One advantage of booking directly with the hotel instead of a 3rd party is that you can update your rate if they decide to drop the price later. This is almost impossible if you book through a travel agent.
RateVegas User asked on 12/28/01
I am taking a charter to Vegas on January 27th and will be staying until January 31st, and will be staying at the MGM. I have read about the $20 trick and am a bit afraid. Will they think I am nuts sliding them a $20, and how should I handle it if they think that I am nuts? Also, will they keep the $20 if they don’t have any upgrades?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Tricia-
While the $20 trick is often debated among Vegas visitors, one thing is certain… All Las Vegas check-in clerks have heard of it. I can’t imagine anyway you could be in that line of work and not be aware of it. That said, some casinos prohibit the practice and some clerks may just not like to participate. The $20 is a tip. If you slide the bill to them, it is theirs. I would think it improper to ask for it back. The way a lot of people do it is flash the $20 under a credit card when they ask if there are upgrades available. That way, if they say no, you can just throw it back in your pocket. There are many variations on the trick and some work better than others, but it is usually specific to the clerk him/herself. So… I doubt they will think you are nuts. Good luck!
RateVegas User asked on 12/18/01
Hunter,
With the regent las vegas changing hands and becoming a JW Marriott property, will this make the property better, worse, or the same? I made reservations to stay at the “regent”, only to read about all the bankruptcy proceedings. Just wondering if I should change hotels due to all the problems. Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Mark-
This is always an issue when a property changes hands or falls on hard times financially. That said, the JW Marriott line is the high end of Marriott’s offering, which leads me to believe they will continue to offer the level of service Regent guests are accustomed to. I have stayed at hotels that have filed Chapter 11 (Aladdin), and noticed no degredation in service or quality.
RateVegas User asked on 12/15/01
I’ve just discovered your site and really like it. I was reading about the $20 upgrade tip, I’ve never heard of it, is it used often? We will be staying at NYNY 19th-21st of December and would like to submit a trip report,what’s the easiest way? Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
First off, thanks! Secondly, yes, the $20 tip is used often and discussed often. I’ve used it several times with much success… As far as the trip report goes, we’d love to post it. We’re trying to direct most of our trip reports to our sister-site VegasMessageBoard.com. There you will find a forum for ‘Trip Reports’ and you can post there! Thanks!
RateVegas User asked on 12/15/01
HI IT’S BEEN COUPLE YEARS SINCE I’V BEEN TO VEGAS. I WAS WONDERING IF OR HOW MANY CASINOS PLAY BLACKJACK WITH 1-4 DECKS WITH NO CONTINOUIS SHUFFEL—————THANK U / STAY COOL / MITCH
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This is becoming harder and harder to find… You will see single deck games at Bellagio (1), the Sahara (1 or 2), and most of the joints downtown…
RateVegas User asked on 12/15/01
do any strip hotels have a jaccuzzi/bath in there run of the house rooms ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I guess it depends on how you define jacuzzi. Several hotels have very nice bathtubs in their standard rooms… This includes Bellagio, Aladdin, and the Luxor Tower Rooms (not pyramid). Several other hotels have ‘Jacuzzi Suites’ that feature the tub… These include Luxor, Monte Carlo, Aladdin, and several others.
RateVegas User asked on 12/11/01
Where can I find a seating chart for the Blue Man Group Theater? I can’t find one on the internet. I’m sitting in Row L.
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
There is a seating chart available at this site. Thanks to Randy for this heads up.
RateVegas User asked on 11/20/01
which casinos are considered north las vegas casinos they are supposed to pay better
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most commonly Texas Station, the Fiesta, and a bit further out is the Santa Fe.
RateVegas User asked on 11/13/01
I am staying at the Treasure Island on Dec. 16-20. I was wondering since two of my nights are already free will the twenty dollar trick actually work? Will they charge me for the upgrade or will it be considered free since I tipped the desk attendant? And is it actually worth the trouble since the standard rooms are supposed to be rather nice?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This sorta depends on how you got your free rooms. If it is through the casino, the $20 trick still can work great. Otherwise, it really depends on how you got your rooms, who you are checking in with… If they accept the $20, they shouldn’t charge you for an upgrade. They certainly won’t charge you extra without your consent. The rooms at TI are nice, but their suites are nicer. Be brave!
RateVegas User asked on 10/27/01
Is there a map of the Vegas Strip that shows the hotels and the distance (miles or feet) between them?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I haven’t seen a map with this much detail. The Strip is several miles in length, from Mandalay Bay to the Stratosphere. The hotels give a perception of being close together but they are actually fairly far apart.
RateVegas User asked on 10/25/01
We are going to Las Vegas on January 21, 2002, and staying at the Alladin. I was told that because of the economy now that when we go to check in we should inquire whether we could upgrade our room. Do you think the upgrade price would be cheap? Also, what casino’s do recommend gambling at. I was told that the casino’s at the end of the strip around Circus Circus are your best bet. Is this true?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You’ve got a couple of questions here and I’ll answer them seperately:
1. Regarding upgrading your room, people do this all time time, even before the economy softened. There are generally two ways to go about it… One is to slide a $20 across with your credit card and ask if there are upgrades available. That $20 is meant as a tip for the check-in person. This sometimes works and can get an upgraded room at no cost (above the $20). If you read through the other questions on these pages, you will see other discussion. It’s commonly called the “$20 Trick”. You could also ask for an upgrade without the twenty and be willing to pay full price. At this point they’ll check and quote you a rate, which you can decline or accept. The success of this process usually depends on how full the hotel is. Good luck.
2. As far as what casinos to gamble in, this depends on many factors. First off, if you play mostly slots or video poker, the Strip is probably not the place to play. For those games, head downtown or even to a locals casino like the Suncoast or Sams Town. They generally have looser slots and better paying video poker… If you like to play table games, casino rules can vary no matter what part of town you are in. The casinos on the north end of the Strip (Stratosphere, Sahara, Circus Circus, Stardust, Riveria) usually have lower limit tables available (in the $1 – $5 range on the low end) while they are harder to come by further south. The newer Strip casinos will have some $5 games but on the weekend they will be hard to find. Expect to see table minimums closer to $15 – $25 and up in these casinos in the evenings. Most important: have fun!
RateVegas User asked on 10/22/01
Where are the top Race books on the strip located? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most of the big resorts have nice Race/Sports Books. The leaders are usually considered Bellagio, Mirage, Mandalay Bay, and MGM Grand. Off-Strip the LV Hilton’s facility is also top-notch.
RateVegas User asked on 10/21/01
I’m wondering about the “manor” rooms at Circus Circus. It sounds like these are somewhat seperated from the main hotel/casino. How far is it? Thanks.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hehehe… Yes, they are seperated from the main casino hotel… They are at the far back of the property, connected via bus. It’s actually quite a ways… I assume the only incentive these rooms offer is lower rates… If you don’t mind walking the equivalent of two or three blocks to get to the Strip from your hotel room door, it might be worth it…
RateVegas User asked on 10/17/01
How do I find out the entertainment at the Bellagio on the night of Oct. 24th, 2001?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
When I am trying to find out what’s going on on a specific date, I usually check several sources. First, I check with the hotel itself… In this case, Bellagio doesn’t have an event calendar… Next, Vegas.com has an event calendar on their front page. It doesn’t look like there are any special events on that date at Bellagio so in this case it looks like nothing special will be going on at Bellagio on October 24th, and their showroom for the production show ‘O’ is dark on Wednesdays.
RateVegas User asked on 10/14/01
Since we plan to visit in the winter months, which hotels on the Strip have inside pools and/or hot tubs?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
As far as I know, the only hotel with an indoor pool is the Tropicana, and calling it that is stretching it a bit. They have a partition that is extended around the outside pool to keep it somewhat warm… Most hotels have hot tubs open all year, though they are outside. Also, some hotels use the winter months to perform maintenance on the pools… I would check the dates with your hotel to make sure the pool area will be open.
RateVegas User asked on 10/14/01
Hey! I visited Las Vegas last summer actually, and while I was there I stayed at the Excalibur. (spelling??) Anyways, my family and I ended up getting together for breakfast every morning for the 4 days I was there at the Dennys restaurant in Vacation Village.
The food and staff there were amazing. There was a guy that actually worked there who I would like to get in contact with. I tried looking for a rating site or something on Vacation Village but I couldn’t find anything. I actually just decided I am going to be moving there in less then three months and I would like to find him before then. So if I could please get an email address or something so I can have contact with Vacation Village (or someone who can help me out) that would be great! Thanks a lot!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Vacation Village Web site can be found here. Vacation Village is currently being auctioned off in a bankruptcy proceeding and there is a question that it will remain open… Good luck finding your friend!
RateVegas User asked on 10/11/01
Do you have any information on the new Tuscany Suites?
When will it be open? What are the approximate rates
expected to be? What is it going to be like?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Tuscany Suites, on Flamingo Road near the Strip, is planning on opening in December of 2001. It will have 716 rooms and a 72,000 square foot casino. As far as I know, room rates haven’t been firmly established. Judging from the exterior, it could end up being a nice place to stay and gamble, slightly removed from the action of the Strip.
RateVegas User asked on 10/10/01
I was wondering even if you are fully comped for a regular room by your host at check in, if you could still try the 20 dollar trick for a better room or perhaps a suite. thanks….viva las vegas
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
This is an interesting scenario that I haven’t yet encountered… I would argue that it couldn’t hurt but, like the “traditional” $20 trick, I’m sure that your luck will vary. Viva Las Vegas.
RateVegas User asked on 09/26/01
From the name of your web site “Ratevegas” I assumed I would be able to rate Las Vegas and its Casino’s, Resturants and etc. I cannot find a place for me to input my rating of these faculities. Can you help?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Gerald-
Yes, we do offer that functionality. From our main page you can pick hotels, restaurants and shows from the drop down menus. From those pages there are links in each category to rate the aspects of the hotel, casino, etc… If you continue to have problems, send us an email at support@ratevegas.com. Thanks.
RateVegas User asked on 09/14/01
HI, HOW WOULD YOU RATE HARRAHS AND THE FLAMINGO ?
BEEN TO THE FLAMINGO BUT NOT HARRAHS.
THANK YOU
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Both hotels are strong mid-market choices on the Strip. Harrah’s seems to be more aggressive with comps than the Flamingo.
RateVegas User asked on 09/10/01
Could you please give me the name of a GOOD and reputable tour company that goes to the Grand Canyon by plane combined with a bus tour of the Canyon? I have been reading some comments by very unhappy customers and do not want to be one of them. Thank You
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
On several occasions I have heard good things about Action Tours. I have not personally been on a Grand Canyon tour provided by an operator. Please feel free to share your experience with us so that we can help others in the future as well.
RateVegas User asked on 09/08/01
I am trying again, I was cut off twice. I am staying at the Circus Circus with children. If I should slip the $20, and get an upgrade, is the upgrade without extra charge? Also, am I correct in understanding that we can ride a limo from the airport to Circus Cirucs for $4 a person? And if so, what would be a acceptable tip to the driver? Also, do you know the charge for shuttles? We will be attending the Kings King dinner (mid evil times) at Excalibur, does this run on weeknights? And will take the children to the Adventure dome, any other ideas for kids? Any special dinner places good for kids or lunch ideas? Is the Circus Circus rooms clean? we are in the new West tower, have you heard anything about them? Thank you.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you slip a $20 and ask for an upgrade, the desk clerk should give you an upgraded room at no charge. If he offers an upgrade but wants to charge you extra, pull the $20 back… Las Vegas Limo does have service from the airport to hotels. Service prices have gone up a bit I think, but it’s between $4 and $7 per person. I would think a few dollars tip would be sufficient, maybe more if they help you with a significant amount of luggage… As far as the dinner show at Excalibur, I assume you are referring to ‘Tournament of Kings’. According to the hotel they do two shows nightly, including weeknights… Depending on how old your kids are, they might enjoy roller coasters at both the Sahara and New York New York. There is also a large video game hall called Gameworks next to the MGM Grand… While many people have less than nice things to say about Circus Circus, it is clean and the rooms aren’t bad. Some of the older rooms have some gawdy decor, but overall it’s probably a good value for the money and if you have kids with you. The West Tower is the newest tower, though I haven’t seen the rooms. Have fun and good luck!
RateVegas User asked on 09/02/01
9/2/2001
i will be a guest at ceasars palace from: oct-2-7,2001..
i was told by a friend,that the hotel has a restaurant for a flat $70.00 per person with seafood as a main course with unlimited wine (bacchus) night ??
please email the name of restaurant,so that i can make
dinner reservations for four at 8pm on friday
oct.5th…….
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The restaurant your friend was referring to is most likely Caesars Magical Empire, a dinner show combination.
RateVegas User asked on 09/02/01
has anybody been to the star trek exhibit at the las vegas Hilton? can you tell me if it is worth it or not?
thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I think there are more comments about the Star Trek ride in the Q+A sub-pages. Check there for more info…
RateVegas User asked on 08/23/01
Do you know something special about the rennovations of the Mirage? We will be there from 08. August for 5 Days.
I wouldn`t be very happy about a lot of noise etc.
I heard for example, that the rennovations in the Flamingo-Hotel were very heavy for the guests.
Thanks
Elke
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They are currently working on room rennovations to the entire tower. They usually clear rooms around where they are working. I wouldn’t expect any noise from the construction. In my experience, the Mirage is very sensitive to its guests. If you have a problem, I’m sure they would move you.
RateVegas User asked on 08/22/01
I have been to Vegas quite a few times , and usually stay at Palace Station . I particularly like the garden apartments and the proximity they have to the two pools and spas . I recently heard that Palace Station plans on taking out the garden apartment rooms and replacing them with another tower . Can you tell me if this is true or not ?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I have not heard anything about this and wasn’t able to find out from any sources. I will keep watching this rumor but at this point I don’t think anything is announced.
RateVegas User asked on 08/21/01
what are the casinos that are considered in north vegas—
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Texas Station is probably the most popular casino in North Las Vegas. Other casinos in the area are the Fiesta, and a bit further out, the Santa Fe.
RateVegas User asked on 08/21/01
Does there really exist a star trek show in las vegas? I heard that there was one but cant seem to find out.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s more of a ride than a show… It’s called Star Trek: The Experience and it’s at the Las Vegas Hilton. It’s a lot of fun and I would recommend checking it out, especially if you are a fan.
RateVegas User asked on 08/20/01
I hope you can please help i am having difficuly choosing a hotel along the strip, we are 2 adults and 1 child i would like a hotel with a good pool as we are staying for at least 7 nights and facilities that cater also for children although that is not of great importance and some where that is good value for money
with a touch of class, I do enjoy a nice room, i hope that iam not asking too much, we are also getting married there, but we know what type of wedding we would like
Thanks you so much
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I would recommend Treasure Island or the Mirage. TI is a great hotel, the rooms are fantastic for the price. The pool is not as great as the pool at the Mirage, but acceptable. The Mirage is more expensive but does have an awesome pool. TI may be a bit more child friendly, though they are not emphasizing this anymore…
RateVegas User asked on 08/18/01
I recently inquired, via phone, about the pool at Harrahs Vegas location. I was told by Harrahs personell that the pool was a lap pool, and she did not know if regular swimming activities took place, i.e., anything other than swimming laps. I can not imagine a major hotel not having a regular swimming pool. Can you offer any information? Thanks, R.H.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It is an olympic sized swimming pool. You can swim laps but according to what I’ve heard, regular swimming activities also take place.
RateVegas User asked on 08/17/01
I will be going to las veagas sept.3rd for 6 nights and will be staying at harrahs.Any advice on how to get a room upgrade or at least a nice veiw? I read where you said to slip a 20 under your credit card, but what if they have no upgrades available? should I just take the 20 back?Thank you for any information,Sue
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The whole $20 trick is probably the most common question… The $20 is a tip for good service, not a bribe. What I usually do is leave the bill showing under the card so they can see it. I ask if they have upgrades and if they say yes, slide the bill and the card along. If no, I take the $20 back and give them my card. You are under no obligation to give them money. If they don’t have the upgrade, take your money back!
RateVegas User asked on 08/14/01
Which tour group is the best for a bus trip to grand canyon?
Are tours to west rim as good as south rim?
thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Action Tourshave come highly recommended. I have been to both the west and south rims and can say that they are equally breathtaking.