Saturday, November 19, 2011

Historical, Colourful - History of Vegas by J. Robb Montana


All rights reserved. No part of this manuscript may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical,photocopy, recording or otherwise without the written prior permission by J. Robb Montana.
While this story is inspired by actual events, certain characters, characterizations, incidents, locations and dialogue were fictionalized or invented for the purposes of dramatization. With respect to such fictionalization or invention, any similarity to the name or to the actual character or history of any person, living or dead, or any product or entity or actual incident is entirely for dramatic purposes and not intended to reflect on any actual character, history, product or entity.


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Vegas lies in the middle of Nevada's Mojave Desert where over thirty-eight million tourist visit every year. Vegas hotels bring in an easy ten million dollars per year from this popular entertainment destination.

Vegas, born in the early 1931 due to legalized gambling in the State of Nevada. By spring of 1946 a Jewish Gangster named Meyer Lansky (born Meyer Suchowljanski) (July 4, 1902 - January 15, 1983; known as the "Mob's Accountant"), became very interested in developing a hotel in Vegas.
Meyer Lansky was well known in the American organized crime, responsible for over four hundred mysterious deaths. He had strong ties with the Italian Mafia by hiring within this organization to carry-out hits. He would hire a hit man named Siegel Benjamin from time to time who was member of the East Coast Italian Mob.
Lansky used Gang boss Siegel (known as Bugsy) to instigate most of his criminal activities. In 1937 he sent Bugsy to Los Angeles to tighten syndicate money operations. His career was fronted as a legal gambler at the Santa Anita Park a hop, skip and jump from Los Angles. Bugsy was responsible for the Murder Inc. who killed "Big Greenie" Greenberg, a police informant, with his fellow gang member, Whitney Krakower. Greenberg's death was Bugsy's attempt to further his reputation from organized crime, but the heat was still on.
Lansky wanted Siegel involved first-hand in the development of the new Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. He forced Siegel to become part of the operations of the new William R. Wilkerson's prestigious Flamingo Hotel. Siegel apparently hated the desert and wanted to stay with his family in Los Angeles; Lansky prevailed.
With great resentment Siegel started the lavish operation of building the Flamingo Hotel without the approval of William R. Wilkerson. He was way over budget by use of his inside black market where costs reached well-over the one million dollar figure within just the plumbing itself. Apparently the costs were enormous with an additional surprise purchase of a kitchen costing a mere $29,000 (today, you would be lucky to purchase an Alto-Shaam Cook and Hold Oven for that price). The project was soon to be completed in the spring of 1947 with soaring costs of over $6 million. This price obviously caught the attention of his boss earlier than Siegel was aware of - back in 1946. Lansky knew Siegel was stealing money from the mob and ordered a hit against Siegel.

On June 20, 1947 Siegel, back home in Los Angles enjoying an evening paper, when he was shot five times, once in his right eye. You may remember this scene in the famous movie Godfather series where a Flamingo owner named Green was shot in the right eye; apparently getting the information from Siegel's staged killing.
It wasn't long before the Mafia had strong hold of Vegas, with the Chicago Mafia being the strongest of them all. The Chicago Mafia built eight hotels, such as the Stardust, The Riviera hotel and the Tropicana. The glamour of organized crime and the possibilities of rubbing shoulders with movie stars frantically brought the public to Vegas, not realizing that the Chicago Mafia used illegal benefits on the casino floor. The atmosphere in Las Vegas was exciting, as Frank Sinatra, Lauren Bacall and David Niven.
In 1950 the population of Vegas grew from 25,000 to over 65,000 residences. By 1966 Vegas grew attention from Howard Hugh's. Although Howard Hugh's already owned 25,000 acres outside of Las Vegas, he was very interested in monopolizing on property within the city of Las Vegas. At first his interest was primarily the airport, TV Station and more raw land, he had no idea he was going to pursue his interest into Vegas hotels.
During his investment of properties within Vegas, he and his Mormon accountants occupied the complete top of the Sands Inn who was owned and operated by the Chicago Mob. Howard was not interested in gambling but quickly received the attention of the Chicago Mafia due to occupying the elite floor of the Sands Hotel. It wouldn't be a problem if Howard would gamble on the casino floor, but that wasn't even considered. After weeks of holding rooms and not giving their high-rollers any chance to use the rooms, the Chicago Mafia gave Howard an ultimatum. It has been stated that, "Either Howard leave the hotel or he would be forcibly moved out"
To Howard Hugh's this was just an invitation to "Buy-out" the competition, which he did in 1967. Howard Hugh's bought the Desert Inn and his employee, Bob carried out the formalities. It wasn't long after that, that Howard had caught "Vegas Fever" - he phoned up Bob and laughing he asked his employee, "How much of these toys are available?" Bob was taken back and asked," What toys do you mean Howard? Apparently Howard laughed some more and said," How many Hotels...how many Hotels are available? From that point on, just as Sammy Davis Jr. Said once, "Howard Hugh's is the only man I know who plays monopoly with real hotels...
Howard Hugh's proceeded to buy off the Frontier, the Silver Slipper, the Sands hotel and many more. The Chicago Mafia loved the fact the Howard Hugh's was buying out the hotels, because as far as they were concerned, it took-off the heat of the Attorney General, the well-known Bobby Kennedy. Bobby Kennedy and The President of the United States - John F. Kennedy objective was to clean-up organized crime. Unfortunately, this brought the assassination of John F. Kennedy, leading back to the Chicago Mafia.

In 1970, four years after his first purchase of the Desert Inn, Howard Hugh's lost his interest in Vegas and decided to sell his investments in Vegas. Due to paranoia Howard left for the Bahamas for unseen reasoning. But, that is Howard.
[When I was a teenager I had the fortune of meeting Howard Hugh's in Vancouver, just by mistake. My parents left me in the hotel by myself (not a good idea); I decided to take a little adventure and check out the top of the hotel. Little did I know that an aging Howard Hugh' occupied the top floor. Sure enough I was confronted by plain clothed bodyguards who high-tailed me out. But, just before they were going to usher me out, Howard Hugh's stopped them as he made his regular walks on the top floor. He said to me, "You want some advice?" At the time I had no idea who this important person was. All I knew, he had to be important to have bodyguards. I remember looking up at him, a very sick pale man. I said," Huh, yeah sure, as long as you don't tell my parents." He laughed, coughed and gasped. He said," Never get caught..." I grinned and was escorted back to my room.
Just after Howard Hugh's left Vegas, a head mafia figure came to town, Anthony Spilotro. He had a vindictive personality making sure that everyone was honest when it came to the illegal skimming, a creative opportunity for the Mafia to collect money from its own casino's without being on record. That basically means "Free Money" non-taxed illegal funds. It has been said they collected over $300,000 per month during this operation, with money going to head office in Chicago.
Anthony (Tony) Spilotro was thought to be the main control in Vegas, but was not the case. Tony was just another gang boss within the Chicago Mob. The Mafia always needed someone to appear as controlling a legitimate business, and this is where Alan Glick came in. Alan Glick was a 34 year old lawyer who started the Argent Corporation which took out a loan of over $60 million( loan was given to him by means of the Teamster Union by Hoffa himself) to purchase Stardust, Freemont hotel and Marina's. It was important for the mafia to showcase a legitimate corporation by use of Alan Glick. Apparently Alan Glick wasn't aware that the mafia had control; I think not. It wasn't long before Alan Glick realized he had no control over the mega hotels.
In the background was Frank Rosenthal who just so happen was raised in Chicago and a long time friend of Tony Spilotro. To this day, the FBI has never been able to link Frank Rosenthal with the Chicago Mafia. Frank Rosenthal was well known in Vegas when he started his very own show called "The Frank Rosenthal Show", apparently to deceive the FBI to his mob connections. It must have worked, because today he lives at fine old age as a multi-millionaire in Miami South Beach.
The Mafia seems to be profitable until Tony Spilotro decided it was "ok" to venture his illegal activities outside the Vegas Strip. In 1979 he allowed fellow gang members (known as the "Hole in the Wall" Gang) to rob homes and businesses within Vegas, as long as Tony Spilotro received dividends called "Street Tax". Everything went to plan with robberies of 3-4 homes per night bringing in an estimate $100,000 per month. It looked like the mobsters were winning the game of organized crime with lawyers, judges and political officials in their back pocket.

The FBI had inside word from an informant of a big jewelry heist at the Bertha's Jewelry Store. It was their first big break to catch the mafia red-handed. On Independence Day using fireworks as a cover the "Hole in the Wall" Gang proceeded to rob Bertha's Jewelry Store by crashing through the roof top. They had no clue that the whole police force were waiting in the biggest Stake- out in Vegas history.
The Gang was apprehended with no contest and it wasn't long before the head leader, Frank Culotta turned into a government informant, placing heat on Tony Spilotro. The heat from the FBI turned Tony Spilotro very paranoid, with public spotlight by means of paparazzi. With all the unwelcomed publicity to the Chicago mafia, Tony Spilotro and his younger brother were found dead in a corn-field in Indiana, not far from the head mafia's golf retreat.
Today, Vegas Strip is a vibrant humming giant with legitimate businesses holding the interest in mega hotel chains. It seems that the mafias is no longer in Vegas...or are they :)


Sunday, September 4, 2011

Fun Vegas Facts

Looking down 27th Floor of Caesars Palace, Las Vegas 
Fun Vegas Facts: 
  • Casino was first licensed in 1931
  • Number of slot machines in the city 197,144
  • 36.7 million vistors per year visit Las Vegas
  • 87 Percent of visitors who end up gambling during their stay
  • Annual state gaming revenue, in billions of dollars 9
  • Percent of Nevada's general fund fed by gaming-tax revenue 43
  • Average cost for primeland is over Eleven million dollars for one acre of land on the Strip
  • Number of hotel rooms 124,270
  • Daily number of pillowcases washed at MGM Grand is around 15,000
  • Average nightly room rate with fees or without fees both range around $80 - 130 per night
  • Length of stay is 3 to 4 nights
  • Average number of nights for experienced visitors is 5 - 7 days.
  • The conventions hosts 3749 per year Number of Vegas wedding average around 350 per day.
  • Vegas golf courses range around 37
  • 15,000  miles of lighted neon tubing on the Strip ( if it were placed in a single line)
  • Cost of Nevada marriage license, in dollars 35
  • The most profitable casino is the Venetian - due to the fact that they make more with their China base Casino then on the strip
The Venetian Las Vegas


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About Vegas Reviews:

Vegas Reviews is not associated with any Vegas Hotels or paid by it's own personal reviews of hotels in Vegas.
We're just simply a fun host Facebook page featuring only about the fun in Vegas.
When we find a wonderful stay in Vegas, I like to write about the fun we had at the Vegas Hotel.

In this case we had fun at the Venetian Las Vegas. I don't give reviews very often, so when treated wonderful - I write about it.

Also - Vegas Reviews is not a company. Just a fun social Facebook Page having fun in Vegas. It would be nice to be paid for reviews, but this is just not the case here. So - if you enjoy all the fun in Vegas and would like to join our fun social page - please come on by : Vegas Reviews

Please share the fun and tell your friends about Vegas Reviews - Let's see how many friends of Vegas - are there?

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Vegas Tips with Vegas Reviews

One of the Pools at Ceasars Palace, Las Vegas


 Vegas Spending Tips
You don’t necessary have to be on a budget when in Vegas, but it is always a plus to spend wisely. Vegas Reviews has been going to Vegas twice or three times a year for the last twenty years. Within these twenty years we have found increasing changes benefiting the Vegas Customer.
Top Ten Tips:
1.       As soon as you’re settled in your favorite hotel, be sure to get your Rewards Card (Free) to ensure the most out of your stay.
2.       Wherever you stay, be sure to spend most of your time eating at your hotel. Be sure to sign all your meals to your room (once you have your Rewards Card). Depending on your gambling adventures you can get up to 75% to 95% of your meals paid for by the hotel. Each hotel wants your business and awards you for using their facility.  Always keep track of what you spend daily and never go above your means. This way you will never be disappointed if the hotel doesn't comp your meals. Think of it as a bonus.  I must also say the Rewards Cards are always changing and make sure you ask all the questions before hand.
3.       Tip your waiter/waitress separately – as the hotels do not pay for your tips. Tip is usually 15- 20%. Of course only tip when you have rewarding service. We have never had bad service and the best part, the next day your waiter/waitress most likely will remember you, making your stay a pleasant experience.
4.       Going to a Show or attraction?  Be sure to charge it to your room.  It may be complimentary.
Be sure to explore the Vegas Strip by experiencing free displays, like the Fountains of Bellagio or their breathtaking Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. Palazzo also features theme decor featuring seasons and special events. Take in the new Cosmopolitan beside Bellagio featuring an interesting free display of artistic models. Check out the CityCenter featuring Aria, Vdara, Mandarin Oriental, Crystals and the Veer Towers – it’s all free to enjoy their decor and established shops.
  
5.       If it’s your first stay in Vegas, you might find it overwhelming. The best way to avoid impulse buying or gambling is to plan ahead. Of course, join our free interactive Vegas Reviews giving honest reviews from our interactive group throughout the world.  Vegas Reviews tells it exactly has it is without demeaning or badgering a hotel. Vegas Reviews just gives an honest opinion. Join Vegas Reviews and don’t forget to share your experiences or ask a question. Being interactive, our free members will share their opinion that may help you decide on your next stay in Vegas. All the hotels of Vegas want your business and pride themselves on making your stay very enjoyable. If you do find a fault or a disagreeable employee please be sure to let the hotel know on Facebook  They will respond to fix the error – Bottom line: They value your business and want your stay to be the best experience you ever had.


6.       Vegas Reviews has stayed at these fine hotels and highly recommend: Bellagio, Caesars Palace, T.I. (Treasure Island), WynnLasVegas , Planet Hollywood and The Venetian Las Vegas
Vegas Reviews has also stayed at the Mirage and Excalibur. We have found that Excalibur was a no –thrills type of hotel with excellent food but basic rooms. While at the Excalibur we could have upgraded but decided to try out a basic room. The cleaning staff are wonderful and pleasant; just saying “Good Morning or Hello” was a plus. Our stay at the Mirage had its moments, but overall the stay was good. The restaurant called Stacks was enjoyable and very professional. We highly recommend Stacks and our stay poolside at the Mirage was very enjoyable.

7.       During the pool season you can enjoy a very comfortable stay poolside. The only trick here is to claim your spot by 8:00 am or you may find yourself without a lounge chair. You do have the option of renting a day bed or the lavish comforts of a Cabana (please check prices with your hotel and it’s a good idea to book ahead. The Cabana is great for a family reunion. For example: At Caesars Palace there are over 40 new cabanas in all, with stocked refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, wireless Internet, ceiling fans and plush furniture. Some of the deluxe services offered poolside include chilled towels and body massages.  Evian face spritzers as well as an iPod dock are also available with our VIP Cabanas.  Or, just keep it simple and lay out in one of our 832 deck chairs or any of our other additional rentable furniture.

8.       Book the popular shows ahead of time. These main shows are always booked by the time you arrive in Vegas. These shows may be “O” Cirque du Soleil® at the Bellagio or The Colosseum featuring Celine Dion at the The Colosseum Las Vegas.  You don’t really have to book ahead  these featured attractions : See 2 Shows for $75 per person at either the Excalibur or Luxor.  Try out  SpongeBob, Bodies, Titanic, the Shark Reef, Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden & Dolphin Habitat, The Roller Coaster or the CSI : The Experience. Each of these attractions is ideal for charging to your room, as mentioned above.



9.       Always keep track of your spending habits daily. The reason for this, if you fall off the band wagon of spending you can re-adjust your spending the next day. If you find yourself over spending at the casino – take a break. Go back to your room, relax and take time to reflect . This may sound corny, but you would be surprise how quickly your spending habits can get out of hand.  Always have a budget for casino spending and keep to it. Head over to the Bellagio for a free walk through the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens or take in check out the countless buffets from Caesars Palace to Luxo

10.   Last important tip is to make sure you give yourself time if you’re heading down the strip. Expect delays and overcrowded buses. You can walk, but just realize it’s time consuming and your feet will hurt from pounding the pavement. To make your walk more pleasant, have good walking shoes, take at least four breaks and make sure you sit for a good fifteen minutes before you continue on along your journey across the Vegas Strip. And last, take water with you – very important.

The above top ten spending tips are the opinion of Vegas Reviews and not necessarily the opinion of others. If you have a suggestion in Spending Tips in Vegas – please feel free to offer your suggestion. The more suggestions will help all. Happy times in Las Vegas J
Please share your experiences with Vegas Reviews :)

How to pick your hotel: 
Pick a hotel that suits your style or requirements. If you’re looking to be pampered – it is wise to check out these hotels:



The Venetian Las Vegas




Wynn Las Vegas – a very elegant prestigious hotel greeting you up-scale amenities one could ever desire. It may be pricey  but still possible to enjoy for that very important event, such as your anniversary, birthday or wedding plans. The meals provide gourmet selections from their Buffet featuring 16 live cooking stations with a grand display of tastefully morsels that  is sure to melt your palate taste. Enjoy golfing just like the Stars - an 18 hole, 7042 yard par 70 golf course featuring dynamic challenging elevations. You won't even realize your in the middle of Vegas Strip under the breathtaking waterfalls and architectural designed course.



The Venetian Las Vegas - check out our most recent review - One Word : Wonderful  - The Venetian Las Vegas has much to offer - check it out on their website : The Venetian Las Vegas



Caesars Palace Las Vegas - luxury with divine service is evident as soon as you walk onto Caesars Entertainment Corporation.  Committed friendly staff provides quick check-in a room that is sure to compliment your lifestyle .  Make sure to ask about an up-grade on your room to maximize your stay. Relax pool side within the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis under the luxury of the many cabanas featuring stocked refrigerators, flat-screen TV's, DVD, wireless Internet, ceiling fan and plush furniture. Chilled towels are offered don't forget to ask about the body massages.



When you're about to leave, the night before, head over to the Players Club Card desk to see what you can comp during your stay. Depending how much you have spent at the hotel and the frequency of your gambling, they may comp all your meals. This is exactly how it was for us at the Excalibur, Las Vegas.

The most important part of going to Vegas is to have "fun" and when you're not at Vegas - Join our "fun" Facebook group called Vegas Reviews.


About Vegas Reviews:

Vegas Reviews is not associated with any Vegas Hotels or paid by it's own personal reviews of hotels in Vegas.
We're just simply a fun host Facebook page featuring only about the fun in Vegas.
When we find a wonderful stay in Vegas, I like to write about the fun we had at the Vegas Hotel.

I don't give reviews very often, so when treated wonderful - I write about it.

Also - Vegas Reviews is not a company. Just a fun social Facebook Page having fun in Vegas. It would be nice to be paid for reviews, but this is just not the case here. So - if you enjoy all the fun in Vegas and would like to join our fun social page - please come on by : Vegas Reviews

Please share the fun and tell your friends about Vegas Reviews - Let's see how many friends of Vegas - are there?


Share Your Vegas Reviews


 

 - Have Your Vegas Review On Our Blog - Just Place your Comments placed in the Comments Below or on Facebook Vegas Reviews - Voice Your Opinion of Your Stay in Vegas - Good or Bad - We will Post it!

Check out What Viewers have said






Tia 


Which Vegas Hotel did you Stay at?  Monte Carlo


Date Arrived: Feb 20 2012


How Many Days Did You Stay?   5 Days


Rate Hotel : Needs Work  


Purpose of Stay : Fun In Vegas


Details : My friend and I went to Las Vegas on Feb 20th,2012 for my 30th birthday. We stayed at the Monte Carlo for 4 nights 5 days. The hotel was OK. When we went up to the hotel room we were disappointing. There were holes in the bed sheets, the internet cord looked like it was chewed by a rat, there was sticky juice on the floor, the bathroom door looked like it was beat up and the bath tub was disgusting. 

We went down and complained about the room and they said we could upgrade for an extra $40 a night to a 700 sq foot room with a jet tub. The upgraded room was better, but we didn't have a jetted tub. When we asked why we didn't the guy argued with us and said that there was a jetted tub. Eventually he called and found out that we didn't have a jetted tub because the room we got was a handicap room. 
We didn't want to ruin our vacation so we just put up with it. 

The rest of the vacation was awesome! 

Walked around to a lot of the different hotels. Saw the Shark Tank at Mandalay Bay, The Body Exibition at the Luxor, and Sigfried and Roy's Dolphin Habitat at the Mirage. We got the 3 for $55, which is a good price for what you see. We did gamble at the M Life hotels and used our M Life card, which in the end we got $500 comp from our charged to the room bill. 

We ate at a lot of different restaurants, but the best was the Aria buffet. For $30 per person you got a large selection of food. Including crab legs, shrimp cocktail, sushi, Indian food, chinese food, prime rib, turkey breast roast, huge selection of awesome desserts, the list goes on. Plus for an extra $6 per person you can get unlimited wine. Definitely worth the money!

 This is the second time I have been to Vegas, this time was 1 day longer than the last. I would recommend going for at least a week. Other than the hotel room at the beginning, this Vegas Vacation was the best 30th present anyone could ask for.
Tia



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Rebecca 


Which Vegas Hotel did you Stay at?  Caesars Palace


Date Arrived: Feb 24 2012


How Many Days Did You Stay?   One night - A quick get-away 


Rate Hotel : Lots of Value 


Purpose of Stay : Fun In Vegas


Details : Caesars Palace treated me well with a jacuzzi room in the Roman Tower I had brunch at the Wicked Spoon in the Cosmopolitan - Yum! They have raised the bar for Buffets in Vegas. Selection of items you won't find at other buffets...

Finally, a return visit to the Gossy Room at Caesars Palace to catch Matt Goss' Show. He is Swagger:) 

Thanks Vegas for a much needed night away!

Rebecca
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Rebe
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at?: Flamingo

Date You Arrived: 2/26/2011

Date You Left: 2/28/2011

Rate this Hotel: Lots of Value

Purpose of your Stay?: Travel with Spouse

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel ?: Yes

TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW : Lots of Value

Please Tell Us Your Review:

First time at the Flamingo. Lot's of value. Three nites - Saturday, Sunday, Monday in an upgraded Go Deluxe room for $243 total. Vegas was quiet but it was sold out. Comfy beds, updated room with flat screen tvs and decor. Nice extras we aren't seeing much of any more - in room coffee maker with plenty of coffee, mini fridge (not the stocked mini bar where you can't move anything without being charged). Loved the location, loved no resort fees. Would stay there again if the price were right;)


shouting - "'Don't spear the olive". Too late, I destroyed the chef's creation (at least one of the three) and I am sure my photo hangs in his kitchen on the "wall of shame". The olive dish - not may favorite;) But truly a great dining experience.
I have frequently dined at Mastro's in Arizona and the Las Vegas restaurant did not disappoint. Expect to pay high prices, but the seafood is superb and large portions. We shared a mini seafood tower of large shrimp cocktail and dungeness crab cocktail. You can build your own tower. We also each had a salad ( large salads we couldn't finish). As a side we had my favorite lobster mashed potatoes. A lumpier version than I remember in Arizona, but delicious anyway. The meal is served with a wonderful basket of artisan bread - we took ours back to the hotel. We sat in an open air tree house above City Center - nice touch. The damages - $150 - included tip.
We stopped in The Henry for a late night snack. I wasn't up for sweet, but was eyeing the creamy potatoes side dish. I love potatoes. These scalloped potatoes were superb and I couldn't have been happier with my choice. The down side to The Henry is location. We were right next to one of the clubs and it was loud! Not exactly where I wanted to wind down the night. I would go back during hours when it wasn't happening in the club.
The Cosmopolitan is currently very appealing to me and I look forward to another Vegas trip maybe in the heat of the summer to check out the pool and rooms.

How would you describe the overall hotel: Great!

Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities



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Forbe

Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at?: Monte Carlo

Date You Arrived: n/a

Date You Left: 2/25/2011

Rate this Hotel: Very good

Purpose of your Stay?: Travel with Friends

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel ?: Yes

TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW : : Vegas is over rated !!!

Please Tell Us Your Review:

Going to Vegas was suppose to be fun. If you like to hurry up and wait. Stand in line for food, stand in line for tickets, stand in line for the bus, if it stops. when they are full they pull over and leave.  Vegas has become over crowded and expensive. The best part of Vegas was Fremont Street. Then leaving. If you think it is going to be relaxing and fun find somewhere else to go !!!

How would you describe the overall hotel: Everything was great - including the staff

Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities


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Kateann Reilly

Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Bally's

Date You Arrived: 10/26/2010

Date You Left: 10/29/2010

Rate this Hotel: Good
Purpose of your Stay: Extended Family
Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Not Sure
TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW : Just OK

Please Tell Us Your Review:

Not enough personnel at check-in/check-out!!! Easy to navigate casino, mostly friendly staff,
HORRIBLE timeshare people with a desk right as you come who accost you every chance they get, very poor cocktail service while gambling, rooms just OK, nothing special (North Tower).
Express coffee in the morning timely, but expensive. I think our next stay will be at a slightly nicer resort. Location is A1 !!
How would you describe the overall hotel: No Thrills what so ever
Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities
Username:Kateann Reilly
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Vegas Reviews
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Excalibur Hotel & Casino
Date You Arrived: 11/23/2010
Date You Left: 11/30/2010
Rate this Hotel: Good
Purpose of your Stay: Review
Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Yes
TITLE OF REVIEW: A Clean No-thrills type of Resort with excellent maid, front staff and restaurant service.
Excalibur even says, "Looking for a Las Vegas hotel that’s fun, not fancy? Then you belong in a Castle – Excalibur,
where you rule."
Please Tell us your Review:
Sherwood Forest Cafe is highly recommended followed by the Roundtable Buffet. Good security throughout the property, friendly and helpful.
The mini food court ( Village Food Court) on the second (which I don't believe is run by Excalibur) needs cleaning and maybe a facelift like the foodcourt at Luxor. Again - this is not run by Excalibur and most probably leased by Excalibur. In this food court you have McDonalds, Pizza Hut,Starbucks, Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Krispe Kreme,Popcornopolis, Coldstone Creamery, Quizno's and Mancchu Wok.
We tried out Pizza Hut (Good) and McDonald's (just ok) and Krispe Kreme (Good). 
We took in the 3 For $54 Attraction Special and found it very rewarding and worth every cent. We went to Titanic/ The Shark Reef/ Bodies.Other options were Spongebob 4D/The Roller Coaster/Siegried & Roy's Secret Garden & Dolphin Habitat and CSI: The Experience.
We also went to see Carrot Top and highly recommend this fun entertainment.
Tip: Make sure you get the Players Club Card. Make sure you charge all your food to your room ( tip your server separate with cash)
Reason: At the end of your stay ( before you check-out) go directly to the Players Club desk and present your card. Players Club will COMP 90% of your food as long as you didn't use the card for complementary rooms. This was a $300 savings!
(Please ask Players Club Card how it works and get all the facts)
I would recommend Excalibur for its good service and food.We weren't impress with Dicks Last Resort ( not because the Theme is to treat people like crap) but because we didn't even get to sit down due to the hostess. I believe it would be a good idea to sit down your patrons before trashing them - she wasn't playing a part here - she was bored and complacent. The place was empty in the late afternoon that we decided to have a early dinner and some drinks. We do understand this can be a fun place for everyone, but we didn't even get that chance to sit at a table. I love to party just like anyone else and would have loved to have been able to take part in their Theme. Dicks Last Resort looks like fun and by others I understand they had a blast. I also understand it's made for a group of people - due to the picnic tables throughout, but it would be nice to have a table for two as well. Yes, yes, I know...you can sit at up front at the bar on high chairs. I must mention here that the younger crowd loves Dicks Last Resort and by their reviews - the younger crowd would go to Dicks Last Resort and have said they would go back again.
How would you describe the overall hotel: Great Food and excellent service by Excalibur staff.
Did the Hotel have all the facilities: Yes
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Irish Chick
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Bally's

Date You Arrived: 10/25/2010

Date You Left: 10/29/2010

Rate this Hotel: Good
Purpose of your Stay: Extended Family

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Not Sure
TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW: Bally's was just okay
Please Tell Us Your Review: Our room was large, clean and well kept up, but it was kinda like staying at Harrah's Joliet!
 My husband much preferred the rooms at TI on our last visit.
My main complaint is they have Coffeemaker in some rooms, but not all and I had called ahead of time to request one and was told that NONE of their rooms had Coffeemaker.
 It's a trivial gripe, but one that cost me $60 for the week to get my caffeine fix before I could greet the day!

How would you describe the overall hotel: We were not impressed/ terrible staff and service
Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities
 Username:Irish Chick

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DWIFE

Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at : Paris

Date You Arrived: 7/13/2010 
Date You Left: 7/23/2010

Rate this Hotel: Very good

Purpose of your Stay?: Travel with Spouse or Partner

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel?: Yes

TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW : One of the Best ever!

Please Tell Us Your Review:
Paris hotel really is an awesome place! I have stayed at most of Harrahs properties, But Paris and Caesars Are truly Gems! The entire staff, dining casino Everything was just awesome.
 I would like to thank, Artemes, C. Hinkley, and Joe lombardo, for their exceptional kindness and, professionalism.
We will be returning in November, and will be staying at Caesars. We thank you very much, Harrahs!

Tell other travelers more about this hotel: Quiet and Relaxing
Did the Hotel have the following amenities?:
It Had all the facilities

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 MS JULIE 
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Trump International Hotel
Date You Arrived: 10/7/2010

Date You Left: 10/10/2010

Rate this Hotel: Very good

Purpose of your Stay: Travel with Spouse or Partner
Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Yes
TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW : We were made to feel like the most important guests in the hotel
Please Tell Us Your Review:
We had an amazing stay. We are not high rollers, or well off by any means but we were made to feel like the most important guests in the hotel.
Loved having the kitchenette, it meant not having to get up and get out so early, we just had breakfast in our room (fruit, yogurt, toast, cereal, coffee, juice) while showering and catching up on the sports and news from the previous day and actually enjoying each other's company. It also made snacking and grabbing a few beers between afternoon and evening activities easy and keeping the budget where we wanted too (more money for "fun" things when the necessities are covered)
Couldn't say enough about the Valet staff, the Housekeepers, everyone was A++

Tell other travelers more about this hotel How would you describe the overall hotel:
Romantic/Elegant/ Plush
Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities

Name - Use a username  Ms Julie
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MR VEGASMAN

Caesars Palace Review – May 2010
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Caesars Palace

Date You Arrived: 5/16/2010

Date You Left: 5/21/2010

Rate this Hotel: Good
Purpose of your Stay: Travel with Spouse or Partner

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Yes
TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW: The Palace of Caesars
Please Tell Us Your Review:
Our recent stay at Caesars Palace started with the check-in of our room. Our accommodation was booked as a five day stay with three days complimentary of Caesars Palace due to our Rewards Card membership.
After twenty minute wait within the streamline of customers patiently waiting for their check-in, we were comforted with a friendly staff member.
Due to our 31st anniversary we inquired about an upgrade from our complimentary room. She introduced us to an upgrade room of over 2000 sq ft room offering a dining room, three bathrooms, a guest’s entertainment bar, living room and a grand master bedroom.
First she offered the room for $100 per night, but her duty manager refused such an offer. She came back to us sheepish, quickly apologizing letting us know that her boss wouldn’t allow such a price.
We asked if he would accept $150 per night in which he rudely stated he could get a much better price per night. With that, embarrassed by the situation the girl attending to us, asked if we would accept $200 per night.
We hummed and hawed over this price, as it was just too much, as I already knew that that our last night, Thursday night, would end up costing us the $170 plus $200 and an additional tax charge. Our Thursday night would cost $500 alone.
With the overall costs I said, “No – that is just too much for us.” So I asked just for our complimentary room instead. As soon as I said that, our complimentary room turned into a nightmare of a room. The room Caesars Palace offered was on the third floor with only double beds, where we had reserved a King size bed. Suddenly I felt I was been taken for a ride and must of given the most discussed facial expression.
She once again offered us the 2000 sq ft room on the 14 floor for $200 per night. My wife voiced her opinion and asked me to go for the upgrade, as it is our 31st anniversary. I decided to please my wives wishes, but still felt we were taken for a quick ride. From past experiences with complimentary rooms, they usually have offered us a deluxe upgrade at no charge.
We were here to enjoy ourselves, so we left it at that, even though I knew our overall costs would be $1800 for just the room for five days. What really caught me off guard were the taxes with each night costing a whopping $100. Our room was enormous and apparently the original cost per night was $3600 per night. Mind you, we really didn’t have any use for three bathrooms or a large dining room table.
Originally we were going to use the spa, fitness centre and go to three different shows, but after our upgraded costs of our room, we could not afford any of these luxuries.

The next morning we did indulge in the featured Buffet of Buffets at a cost of $34.99 per person for reward card members and $39.99 for non-members.
Knowingly we paced ourselves in order to go to all three buffets with Harrah’s Properties. Lago Buffet at Caesars Palace was our breakfast choice and was pleasantly surprised by great friendly service and inviting food for any foodies. You had a choice of freshly-made omelette's, baked ham, turkey or pork bacon, wide range of sausages, assorted seafood & potatoes and a fine selection of pastries.
Our luncheon choice was going to be at the Paris hotel, but after seeing the overwhelming line-up we jetted over to Planet Hollywood and were glad we did.
The Spice Market Buffet at Planet Hollywood featured Mexican, American, Italian and Middle Eastern food items. I stuck with the American food choices while my wife found fresh hot asparagus in the Italian section. Of course we shared the tasty asparagus while enjoying the beef and chicken dishes. We were seated in front of the Middle Eastern section and if only had room, I would have indulged in the pork kabobs cooking on the BBQ. But I did leave room for the tantalizing desserts, like chocolate eclairs.
After a long walk throughout the Vegas Strip we headed to our last buffet of the day, back to the Lago Buffet at Caesars Palace. Our choice of prime rib, crab and peel and eat shrimp, we barely made a dent. Needless to say we were FULL!
Next morning we headed to the pool and found we were lucky to be poolside just before 9:00 am, as it quickly filled up.
We decided to indulge into one of the bar drinks at a gasping price of $20 per drink, not including tip; needless to say, we had very few drinks at the pool.
We quickly learned that any charges to our room would be topped off by a heavy tax. Mind you, poolside was complete luxury and worth the time taking in the sun rays.
Throughout our days at Caesars Palace we took in the pool daily.
Of course we took our turn in the casinos and knowingly spent our budget, but with a couple of noticeable wins. Smartly we re-invested our winnings back into the cost of our room.
On Wednesday, we headed over to our reserved dining experience at the famous Eiffel Tower Restaurant at the Paris Hotel.
Within minutes we were seated at our window seat over-looking the Bellagio with its fountain display featuring a beautiful view.
Our selection of entrees envisioned a freshly cooked beef wellington with potato gratin and hot asparagus. Unfortunately our entrees were cold with my beef wellington undercooked.
I summoned our waiter, his eye brows raised as he looked at the raw beef within the pastry. He quickly took it away, with me thinking that I would receive a new freshly baked beef wellington.
Astonished by the quick comeback of my dish, I noticed it was placed under a salamander to finish cooking. Shaking my head, I decided it was best not to say anymore, with them having no idea they were dealing with a retired Executive Chef of over twenty-five years of culinary experience.
The view was great and the chocolate Souffle was wonderful.
The rest of our stay at Caesars Palace was uneventful with good service from the casino to our room maid.
In conclusion I would recommend Caesars Palace but do not suggest any upgrade, leaving them with the choice of upgrading for you at no additional charge.
The food at Caesars Palace is acceptable with friendly service. Be aware that anything that you want to do cost extra, including the Internet service of $14.95 per day, fitness centre at $25 per day and the spa service starting at $45 per person.
It is to your advantage to become a Rewards Card member to entitle you to frequent offers...

Tell other travelers more about this hotel How would you describe the overall hotel: Romantic/Elegant/ Plush

Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities

Username: MR VEGASMAN

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J ROBBMONTANA

Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Bellagio
Date You Arrived: 1/1/2008

Date You Left: 1/5/2008 
Rate this Hotel: Very good

Purpose of your Stay: Travel with Spouse or Partner
Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Yes
TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW :  Bellagio is Wonderful
Please Tell Us Your Review:
On New Years Day we step into the grand foyer of the Bellagio with wide-eyed wonder as we observed the gracious 2,000 dynamic hand-blown glass flowers peering from high above their spectacular ceiling stage.
Allow your senses to take flight as your gaze ascends to appreciate this vivid piece of creative expression commissioned by world-renowned artist, Dale Chihuly. This piece de resistance is the quintessential complements your welcome to the grand lobby.
Our needs were quickly addressed and flawless during our check-in; as a matter of fact Bellagio offered us a free up-grade. The ultra fast elaborate elevators whisked us up to our 27th floor. Entering our deluxe room overlooking the spectacular view featuring entertaining Fountains of Bellagio displaying a romantic dance.
The deluxe room showcased a lavish comfortable in the warm and inviting décor of our 626-square-feet Spa Tower guest rooms, complete with panoramic views of Las Vegas. Upon arrival, the charm of contemporary styling overwhelms with rich, dark wood tones that accent the room.
Combining contemporary wood furnishings and artwork with traditional fabrics and accessories, a resplendent modern look is visible.
We immediately felt like Kings and Queens in this spacious upgraded room showing off double sink vanities, a marble shower with seamless glass enclosure, luxurious duvets, a flat screen TV, and a fully stocked mini bar.
It was hard to leave our room, but we were intent to explore this grand mega hotel. Our next stop was elaborate poolside marvel at the romantic lure of a Mediterranean-infused al fresco masterpiece – unquestionably Las Vegas' most inviting pool area.
We went for a quick dip within these five pool courtyard brings us into serenity.
The next morning we set out to the Spas, the garden vista café and then relax all day at our private cabanas with the option of poolside massage treatments to complete our own outdoor oasis.
In the afternoon we frolic over to the Grand Christmas Display featuring elaborate Christmas trees, animated penguins, stunning prominently large Christmas decorations and dancing reindeer.
The setting was one word : Fantastic!
We decided to have an appetizer at the Petrossian lounge which opens every afternoon to share a bit of European flavor with guests in the form of a traditional Afternoon Tea Service from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. We sat down and decided upon an assorted appetizer featuring caviar and smoked salmon artfully displayed on silver.
With my over all experience with exotic appetizers we went away disappointed by this particular dish. After our drinks we paid the $100.00 tab gasping at the over price appetizer.
My wife was not pleased so we went into the casino so she could blow off steam. To our surprise we won a quick $200.00 seating at one of the many slot machines throughout the casino floor. Now we were happy again, our appetizer and drinks were free to us afterall.
The rest of our stay was completely grand.
I would recommend the Bellagio.

Tell other travelers more about this hotel How would you describe the overall hotel:
Romantic/Elegant/ Plush
Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities

Username: J ROBBMONTANA

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Long Johnsilver
Which Vegas Hotel did you stay at: Treasure Island - TI

Date You Arrived: 8/2/2008

Date You Left: 8/9/2008

Rate this Hotel: Very good
Purpose of your Stay: Travel with Spouse or Partner

Would you recommend this Vegas Hotel: Yes

TITLE OF YOUR REVIEW :TI had great clean rooms with good maid service.
The Lobby could use a face-lift - but other than that - the staff were great.The food was also good.
Please Tell Us Your Review: would recommend TI. It's a fun hotel with good clean rooms and great views of the vegas strip. I love the free tram to the Mirage and back. Our stay was worth every cent and I would stay there again.

Tell other travelers more about this hotel How would you describe the overall hotel: Quiet and relaxing

Did the Hotel have the following amenities: It Had all the facilities
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