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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!
Chonze asked on 02/18/12
In Vegas with my wife… We LOVE the slot “Double Triple Deluxe With Cheese”… Does anyone who lives in town who digs slots know where any are located right now (on the strip)? Been trying to look for a good/descent slot finder blog or site, but to no avail. Any ideas from a local player would be appreciated (since you know the loose ones right??) or a link to an easy slot finder site! Here is a link to the machine:
http://media.igt.com/marketing/PromotionalLiterature/GamePromoLit_ED96-195FC.pdf
If you have not, try it out! It rules. We call it ‘Burger Bitch.’ Holler if ya hear me.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Total Rewards (Caesars) has a slot finder system on their Web site. That said, according to them, they don’t have any in the field right now. Is this a rare slot machine?
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.
Linda asked on 01/24/12
Hi Hunter
I have two questions. I am pretty sure of what is located downtown from two years back. My first question is is there a complete list some where that has the older downtown sites and another list that has the new things that has been added recently such a the zip line the five story addition that will be aded to the Golden Gate Hotel and I understand that the old Neopolis spaces are now filled. I know they took down the old Hilton name . Has it been replaced with a new name ?
thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Las Vegas Hilton is now called the ‘LVH’.
As far as Downtown, you mentioned most of the recent developments. You also have the renovation of the Plaza and what’s happening in 2012/2013 with the Lady Luck. Downtown hasn’t had a lot of major changes, though we’ve seen a few projects moving in the past 9 months.
Most of Neonopolis is still empty. There are a few junk shops, the Heart Attack Grill and some other random retail but nothing notable.
Maria asked on 01/24/12
Hi again…another question for you. I’ve noticed that alot of hotel rooms with king size beds have a maximun capacity of 2 people allowed. We are planning a trip to Vefgas and we are bringing our 1 year old. Would we have to book a room with 2 queens or will we be able to book a room with a king bed? How strict are these hotels?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The legal max per bedroom is four persons. Most hotels will charge you extra for anyone over two persons. That said, I’ve never heard of any hotels charging for a toddler… I can’t imagine they would charge you a per-person fee for your chile and if they did, they should be ridiculed.
Mostly these rules are to prevent the Spring-breakers from cramming 10 people in a room.
Maria asked on 01/24/12
Hi…Do taxi’s in Vegas have car seats for infants? Do we need to request a taxi with a car seat or do we need to bring one from home?
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most don’t. I’d suggest bringing a car seat or arranging a special taxi or even setting up a car service. Otherwise you may not be able to secure your child.
Dennis B asked on 01/23/12
I must have missed the news about O’Sheas closing. When will it close and do they have a replacement for it yet ? Ioved playing the nickel slots there. I seem to always win at their machines. Anything else closing soon ? We will be there in October and was wondering just what will be gone and what will be added ?
ThanksVegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
It’s likely to close in June or July. Project Linq will be taking it’s spot, though eventually there will likely be a casino area that takes the O’Shea’s name, probably part of what the Imperial Palace turns into.
Not a lot of other openings or closings anytime soon beyond Linq – that’s going to be the big project for the next 18 months.
Julie asked on 01/21/12
Harrah Las Vegas. What are the difference in the mini suite vrs the petite suite. Shower and tub seperate? Living area separated from the bedroom? Room size? And which Tower is the newest remodeled? Any pics.. Thank you so much
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The mini is just a big larger than a standard room. The petite is more like what most people think of as a suite with separate living and sleeping areas. In general, the hotel has not been renovated in the past several years – just minor fixes as things have broken.
Harrah’s is not a luxury hotel. The rooms are similar to something like a Holiday Inn.
DON asked on 01/21/12
havent been to vegas in about 5 years . going in feb. would like to know is there any cheap- eats still there. and where.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Some. There’s fast food at several spots on The Strip and a few late night deals. Generally speaking, you’ll get better food value on Fremont than on The Strip. If you’ve got an iPhone, our app, Vegas Mate, has a lot of info on finding cheap restaurants.
Margaret asked on 01/20/12
Hi Hunter, this is our first visit to LV for our 25th wedding annivesary. We are staying in the Vdara, what are you views on it, does it have a concierge who can source us a GC helicopter trip at a reasonable price. Is it possible to walk up the whole strip and do you think we can do most things in 4 days. What are top 10 things to do in your opinion in LV
Thanks for your help and any tips
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Happy anniversary!
Vdara is a non-gaming hotel so there’s no casino on property. If you want to gamble, you’ll need to walk to Aria or Bellagio, both of which are a short walk.
Vdara does have a concierge that can help you book a helicopter trip, yes. They should be able to make all of the arrangements for you.
As far as walking The Strip, if you enjoy walking it’s absolutely possible. It’s a pretty long walk to do in day – maybe consider taking it in segments across a few days. But yeah, walking The Strip is fun!
Four days should give you enough time to get a good flavor of what you can do, though there will still be plenty of stuff to do on your next trip too. There’s a lot to see and do.
As far as stuff not to miss, other than restaurants and casinos in general, here are a few suggestions:
- The Fountains of Bellagio
- The Mirage Volcano
- The Conservatory at Bellagio
- Eiffel Tower @ Paris
- Penske Wynn Ferrari Maserati
- Lake of Dreams at Wynn Las Vegas
- Fremont Street Experience (Downtown)
- Dolphin Habitat / Secret Garden of Siegfried and Roy (The Mirage)
- The Sirens of TI at Treasure Island
- Forum Shops at Caesars Palace
- Grand Canal Shops at The Venetian
Ken R asked on 01/19/12
Hello,
I am heading down at the end of April for 30th birthday trip with 2 buddies. Stayed at Monte Carlo last time, looking for a more central location this time. Wanted to know what you thought/know of the Paris. Seems to be nice location and has good deals now. Thanks again for all your help.
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
First off, happy birthday!
As far as Paris goes, I have a mixed opinion. The rooms have had little renovation in the past few years – some of them are pretty threadbare at this point. Does that bother you? If so, it may not be the best choice.
The location is good, there are some good-but-not-great restaurants, the casino is easy to navigate and typically has friendly dealers. The pool is mostly a concrete hole in the ground that is often shaded by the hotel tower.
If you can get a good rate, I think it’s a fine mid-tier hotel, though it’s status has slipped a bit in the past few years.
Brandon asked on 01/18/12
Staying at the Bellagio in March and requesting a lake view room but there’s a problem: With the new Hyde lounge now open, will I hear the loud music from my room like with Wynn and Tryst?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Excellent question… Unfortunately, I haven’t stayed since Hyde opened so I can’t say for sure. Unfortunately, my guess is yes – at least to some degree. Bellagio was not originally designed to dampen this sound and my guess is it will bleed… the question is to what degree.
Vegas man asked on 01/17/12
Morning I hope this is NOT a dumb question. Do you know what hotels if any on the strip allows fast food deliveries to our room such as pizza’s ? I have always wondered about tht. Now a lot of times I get tired of all the walking and the resturants can get to be expensive so a nice large pizza would fill the bill.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
No dumb questions.
The problem you run into is that some hotels have security checking room keys that prohibit this. Generally speaking, the nicer the hotel, the more often you run into these guys… Mirage – yes. Flamingo – no. Hopefully that helps you gauge… or offer to meet the delivery guy in the elevator lobby.
Dennis B. asked on 01/17/12
Great spot super info. and Hunter is a BIG help. My questions are about the different eateries on the strip or near the strip . We are Vegas veterans but the way Vegas changes I thoiught I better ask. We are a steak, mashed potatoes, burger type couple not fancy at all. Hunter are there any restaurants on the strip or near the strip that would be something like family style food that would be under twenty five dollars each ? Where would be the nearest fast food places ? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks. That’s why I’m here…
Depending on what part of The Strip, there are a bunch of fast-food offerings. There’s a McDonald’s near Mandalay Bay, there are food courts at Monte Carlo and The Venetian. There’s a McDonald’s and a Chipotle across from The Mirage between Harrah’s and Casino Royale. There’s a McDonald’s near Circus Circus. Those are a few options.
Not family style but the Circus Steakhouse offers very reasonably priced meats, mostly ala carte. Check it out if you’re looking for a less expensive steak dinner.
There’s also been an explosion of ‘gourmet’ burger places lately. You might consider KGB (Harrah’s), BLT (The Mirage) or Burger Bar (between Mandalay Bay and Luxor in Mandalay Place).
Have fun.
Elischico asked on 01/16/12
Curious about how a couple in mid 40s would find the atmosphere at Cosmopolitan or Aria? We loved Encore and enjoyed Palazzo. We like a pool scene that isn’t full of children but we are definitely not bikini 20-something’s. Thinking of returning to Wynn but also itching to try someplace new like Aria or Cosmo. Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I’d say there’s a good chance.
Cosmo probably trends younger than Aria but if I was picking I’d probably be more interested in Cosmopolitan because I think it’s more fun.
Pool-wise, Cosmo has a few of them with different vibes. They definitely have a ‘club pool’ but also some more normal pools. Aria is similar.
I think either is worth looking at, plus the balconies at Cosmo are amazing.
Harper asked on 01/14/12
Are there any Frank Sinatra old time lounge and dance venues in ’vegas
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Not really. Have a look at the previous answer.
Jules asked on 01/13/12
Have been to Vegas several times but can’t find a romantic dinner and/or dancing place for over 50’s crowd with classic 40’s, jazz, Harry Connick, Michael Buble type music. I have serached the internet and nothing – please help, heading back the end of March – thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yeah, not a lot of great options.
For dinner, you might consider Sinatra at Encore – as you might imagine, they play Sinatra tunes in a gorgeous room with some great food. No dancing though… the lounges for people over ~35 are disappearing very quickly. Another upscale spot for folks looking for something more refined is the Mandarin Bar at Mandarin Oriental in the sky lobby. It’s a gorgeous view and great drinks.
austinguy asked on 01/12/12
We’re spending a birthday weekend in Las Vegas in early March. We like Caesars and the Augustus Tower. Should we choose now Octavius instead?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If you like the Augustus Tower and can get an Octavius room, you should consider it. Brand new and nicely appointed, along with some cool high-tech stuff. One downside is that there really aren’t good Fountain views like some of the higher up Augustus rooms, plus it’s a bit more of a walk to get to the casino.
Charlie asked on 01/11/12
Hi Hunter,
I love the site, and love Vegas Mate. My wife and I are using it to plan our Vegas trip. We are going to Vegas in February and staying at the Mirage for 5 nights. My question is concerning concierge service. I have never used a concierge and just wonder if it cost money to use the resorts concierge service and is it worthwile to use one? Will this help me with dinner reservations, show discounts or room upgrades for a special occasion?
Thanks,
Charlie
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hi,
Thanks for the kind words.
There’s no charge to use the concierge, though it is customary to tip them if they provide you with service. The concierge at the major hotels do have a lot of contacts and can go over and above when it comes to reservations, tickets, etc… A good concierge can be a lifesaver.
Tige asked on 01/10/12
We are going to be in Vegas durring Super Bowl weekend. Where is the best place to watch the game?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
All of the major sportsbooks will be mobbed. If you want a seat in a regular book, you might be waiting overnight… Seriously – even for regular Sunday games, the seats can be gone by 9am.
If you have a casino host, ask them about reserving a table or getting into the casino party – pretty much every hotel holds a private event to watch the game in a ballroom.
In case you’re not worried about crowds, the best books are Wynn, Mirage, LVH, Bally’s, or maybe Caesars.
Maria asked on 01/10/12
Do any hotels in las vegas provide strollers to rent while visiting with infants or do we have to bring our own?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The hotels don’t but there are local companies that do:
http://lasvegasbabyequipmentrentals.com/
carol asked on 01/08/12
comped for PH hip room but would like Resort room. Does $50 usually get an upgrade as opposed to typical $20 trick
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
If they’re available, you may be able to get the upgrade just by asking… If you’ve got a clerk that is amenable to being bribed, the more the better, typically. In a lot of cases, they can’t take a tip for an upgrade due to policy and a nearby manager.
carol asked on 01/08/12
Are the hip rooms at PH newer then the Resort rooms? I know Resort are bigger by 100’ so why is there a charge to upgrade to Hip room. Is it the location of rooms or just furnishings. Both look great on virtual tour.
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They’re a bit of a novelty, often have better views, and there are fewer of them.
malachi asked on 01/08/12
does the 20 dollar trick still work at planet hollywood and is there a room deposit charged for incidentals?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, there is a room deposit, as in most Las Vegas hotels. Typically it’s about $50-$100 per night as a credit card hold, released on check-out. At some places you can opt-out of this, though you are unable to charge anything to your room.
As for the first part of your question, it’s never a sure thing anywhere. Sometimes, just being polite and flashing a big smile will get you the same results.
Dave asked on 01/06/12
Hey guys…love the site, love the app, too!
I’m a fairly frequent LV visitor (normally travel with friends), and taking my GF out there for Valentine’s. I know many of the restaurants in town do special menus around then. Any idea of where I can find a list? I think the R-J had something last year, but can’t find anything for 2012.
Thanks!
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Thanks!
Typically lists like that aren’t published until right around the date itself. I’d check back as it gets closer.
carol o asked on 01/05/12
Upgraded to Hollywood Hip Room at PH. Bigger, better location to pool area or just furnishings? Also acress to pool on 6th floor. Do we have to walk thru public areas (shops/casino) to get to elevators that acess pool? Third Q. Is there non smoking floors or are rooms on same level just some rooms designated as non smoking? Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Almost all Las Vegas hotels do smoking/non-smoking designation by floor, not by individual room. This may vary for speciality rooms or suites but typically the entire floor is off-limits for smokers.
All of the rooms at Planet Hollywood (the main tower, not the Westgate building) have more or less the same access to the pool. The pool is located above the casino so there’s no need to hit it all if you’re coming from the room.
The Hollywood Hip rooms are actually smaller than the Resort Rooms (450 sq. feet vs 550), though they feature specific movie memorabilia.
Linda asked on 01/03/12
This seems to be a fun site and informaive. My question is I read somewhere that the really old Goden Gate hotel is adding a new five story addition. Do you kinow if it has started yet and if so is there a target date to be opened ? In your opinion how will the new addition compare to what is standing now ? Is this the oldest hotel downtown and how would you dscribe its current shape ?Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The construction has just barely gotten underway. The land is cleared but that’s about it… That said, the building should go up pretty quickly – they want to be done by Summer.
This enhancement includes some suites, a new check-in area, etc… The Golden Gate is so small, any extra space will help. Yes, the Golden Gate is the oldest operating hotel in Las Vegas. It’s a value joint that is kept up okay – but don’t expect luxury.
Elgin H. asked on 01/03/12
Hello Hunter and Co., I have been looking at pictures of the brand new Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace, debuting today to the general public. The lowest level room is about 550 sq. feet. Isn’t this about the same size a Wynn Resort standard room? Given the price and location and newness factor, where would you book—Caesars Octavius deluxe room, renovated Wynn resort suite, Cosmo terrace suite, or Aria corner suite?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Yes, the size is on par with rooms at Wynn or Encore. While the rooms at CP are nice, their prices unless you are booking through Total Rewards are often completely divorced from reality.
If I could get a good price, I’d consider trying one but I’d still rather be at Wynn or Cosmo with the balcony. I’d pick CP Octavius over Aria.
Carol O asked on 01/01/12
Any feedback on the PH show Hitzville?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
You can read some reviews here: http://www.ratevegas.com/reviews/show/hitzville
Dennis B. asked on 12/31/11
HAPPY NEW YEAR Hunter ! Next we were thinking about staying two nights ( Friday & Sat. ) at the Imperial Palace in one of their Luv Tubs rooms . Well I started reading the reviews and they were no where near nice. Is the I.P. really that bad ? Has it had any recent renovations to the inside of it ? I have also heard that Caesar’s were planning to close it and after some real improvements reopen it under the name The Horseshoe hotel and Casino. If thats true do you know when they plan on doing that ? Thanks alot Hunter.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Howdy,
The IP will be partially shut down and renovated in the second half of 2012. There’s no word yet on what the new name will be but there will be a new name. The Horseshoe is one candidate.
The IP is an older hotel in a good location with very reasonable prices. The rooms are not glamorous and there won’t be much in the way of work done until after the larger stuff is complete. If you book there, have your expectations in line or you may be disappointed.
Kim asked on 12/30/11
So many reviews.. I’m not sure where to stay. Toss up between lux, monty, and NYNY. Staying for 5 nights. Arrival is 1/12/12. I do want a room that has tub and shower. Not looking for expensive room. A nice,clean,cozy room for 2. Would fit us well. =)
Thanx in advance for any help you can give. I’ve been reading and looking for week now. ufff Da!
~Kim
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I’d probably pick Monte Carlo, since it has a better location than the other two and is attached to CityCenter. NYNY’s rooms are too small and Luxor’s are too old. At MC, make sure you tell them you want a tub. Some of the handicapped rooms don’t have them.
shadow asked on 12/23/11
I need the e. mail address of the Flamingo Hiotel in Las Vegas . So far this site has been a hugh plus and that is great. I need the e. mail address of either their concierge or their reservation manager. I was not sure if rate Vegas could locate those addresses but so far Hunter is doing a great job.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Most resorts do not publish these email addresses. Your best bet is to call the hotel and to ask to speak with whomever you need. That will be far faster than using email.
Dennis asked on 12/22/11
Hunter you are the man and this is the plave for good Vegas info.. We have a chance to stay at the Flamingo in one of their Fab Luxury rooms. They must be new because I have never heard of them before.We have four comped nights there. Do you know how nice these rooms are ? Are the bathrooms nice size ? What are the chances of getting a strip or Bellagio fountain view from one ? Are they very large ?
thanks again
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They are brand new, yes. That means that all of the furnishings are brand new as well… They are intended to be a step above the ‘Go’ rooms that they introduced a few years ago.
The size of the room is the similar to the other rooms – about average sized with average sized bathrooms.
Some of these rooms do look out over Bellagio so be sure to ask for that – you might get lucky!
cedric asked on 12/18/11
Hi Hunter
Thank you for your last reply
Which magic shows do you suggest ? We’re looking for something with minimal talking as my wife is not fluent in English.
We already saw David Cooperfiled so we’re looking for something new if possible
Thank you so much for your help
Kindly
cedric
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
I like Penn and Teller, though there’s a fair amount of talking in that show. Nathan Burton and Mac King both also have shows that people like.
Curtis Miller asked on 12/18/11
Could you give advice on how I can get back the taxes that were withheld from me at the casino for a Jackpot.
I am a Canadian resident and I do believe that I am entitled to receive most, if not all of it back.
Thanks
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Sorry, I’m not a Canadian tax expert.
Dennis B. asked on 12/17/11
I really hope this is not a stupid question but I have to ask. Since I am a member of Total Rewards I can stay at Planet Hollywood comped in their Hip Room but I noticed that I couls also stay comped in one of their pet stay resort rooms also. The pet stay rooms are larger. I have two questions. First MUST you have a pet to stay in that room and do you know where they would be located ? Any chance of a decent strip view.?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Strange, huh? They’ll ask where your pet is but there are all sorts of stories you can come up with to get around that – they will likely not press you (i.e. the pet is coming with grandma later).
The rooms are all over the place so there’s no one answer. Yes, some have Strip views.
shadow asked on 12/17/11
Super quiock question. What are the real differences between Planet Hollywood and Planet Hollywood Westgate ?Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Planet Hollywood is a casino hotel. The Westgate tower is a time-share hotel connected to the property.
Dennis B. asked on 12/17/11
I just received an e. mail from the Golden Gate hotel at downtown Las Vegas. It said that they are adding a five story tower to their hotel. First question have you heard about this ? Do you think that addition would improve the quality of their rooms and how would that effect their prices ? Just where is the Golden Gate located and is it a safe area to walk at night ? Thanks ! You are really helpful.Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
The Golden Gate is on Fremont, right next to The Plaza. It’s a perfectly fine area. The addition is just getting underway and I’d expect the newer rooms to be nicer and larger than the existing ones and along with that, some higher prices.
Archivist asked on 12/14/11
Iw ill be at the PH Westgate in about a week.
I have been told by Harrah’s that the incidental charges per day is $100. But I received an email from PH that states that the charges are only $50 a day.
Whom should I believe? Do they have to honor the lower rate if I bring the email that stated that with me?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
Hmmmm… I think what I’d say is to plan for the worst case but to hope for the best and to mention it if it comes up.
Conflicting information is always tough. You could also call the desk there and see what they say.
Archivist asked on 12/14/11
Is the Manilow store still at Paris?
My supervisor gave me time off to go to LV if I went there for her. Or has it closed since he is not performing there anymore?
Vegas Mate @ RateVegas answered:
They’re closing it up…