Just got back from a short hop to Vegas, three days, two nights. Little did I know when I booked at a great rate ($129 lakefront) in the fall that the place would be hopping. We checked in just as the Chinese dragon parade was getting ready to perform at the entrance. The conservatory was breathtaking with huge red Chinese lanterns, a spectacular pagoda and enormous animated dog (it's the Year of the Dog). One of the restaurants were offering a Dim Sum Buffet. Thankfully we were given a Spa Tower room, which was away from the madding crowd. Our room had a great view of the Eiffel Tower and Paris Hotel, plus the fountains of course. I never tire of them!

We had two really memorable meals. The first night was at Commander's Palace at the Aladdin. Our table was next to the fireplace in the wine room. Commendable service and delicious (and a bit pricey) food. Worth every penny. The next day we returned to Rosemary's Restaurant off the strip. Our second visit in less than a year and we were just as impressed. I felt compelled to photograph the plate presentations, they were that beautiful. And tasted just as good as they looked. Our five course tasting menu came to just $55 a person (no alcohol). The morning we left in the interest of time we just hit the Bellagio breakfast buffet. I must say it was a disappointment from previous visits. Perhaps it was the time of day 10:30 - just between the changeover to the lunch buffet. Nothing special to write about here.

We only did one show. Our first choice of Havana Night Club review wasn't playing so we got half off tickets for Tribute to the Rat Pack at an unlikely-sounding place called the Greek Isles Casino, formerly called the Debbie Reynolds Hotel before it went into bankruptcy. Buddy Hacket's son runs (owns) it now. It's so cheesy it's hilarious. The decor is all red velvet and banquette booths. But most of the seating is at tables perpendicular to the stage area so you have to wrench yourself around and get a neckache to see what's going on. I was fortunate enough to get us moved to a booth. However, I must say the show was entertaining. You could almost imagine yourself going back in time. The performers are each very talented in their own right. The most hilarious part was as we were leaving there was Karaoke going on in the lobby, complete with a middle aged, pot-bellied woman dressed in leotards and a low cut Elvis costume with a long black wig. The singers out here were almost more entertaining than the "real" show. The Coen brothers ("Fargo", "The Big Lebowski") could have a field day with this place. We've been to all the pricey shows, like Celine and "O", but this one will stick out in our minds and bring a smile even years from now.

Anyway, that's our little mid-winter jaunt. Just was the doctor ordered to brighten up a dreary January. Some photos if you are interested: (Click on Vegas 2006)

http://community.webshots.com/user/maggiwun

Maggie how'd you get that rate? My boyfriend and I really want to stay there but can't afford it.

Hi Maggi -

We were in Vegas this weekend. The displays for Chineese New Year at Bellagio were beautiful! All those flowers were spectacular.

We stayed at Caesar's but came over for the Breakfast buffet on Saturday - which I agree was disappointing, and I also am blaming for food poisoning I suffered on Saturday evening!

Glad you had a great trip and that rate! Fantastic!

Pearli, if you sign up for their emails you will be notified of specials. That rate was good for Sunday through Tuesday, so if you can get away during the days they are offering specials, you will get a good rate. Also, their website reservations calendar shows the rates for each day, so you can plan to go when it is cheaper.

Tpatricco, so sorry you got food poisoning! We didn't have any "ill effects" thankfully, especially since we were on a plane that day! I usually avoid buffets for that reason, but you wouldn't expect it from Bellagio. Did you let them know? I would. Their customer service has been very good in the past.

Maggi - I didn't tell them, but hadn't thought of it actually. My major focus was enduring Sunday so I could fly home and get in my own bed.

Thanks! Trish