Vegas experts: What's your opinion on these hotels for these prices?
Feb 23rd, 2005, 05:15 PM
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,344
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Vegas experts: What's your opinion on these hotels for these prices?
Hi everyone!
My husband and I are headed to Vegas for the first time for 3 nights in June. (He doesn't know it yet, it's a surprise for his birthday!) We are going with my mother and stepfather as well. I am researching the hotels and they all sound so fun
We are mainly planning to hang out on the strip, sightsee all the hotels, gamble a little, maybe see a Cirque show, eat out and shop, and relax a bit by the pool. I have looked at all the famous hotels, and the prices are as follows:
*The Venetian : $179/night=$537 total
*Flamingo: $180 for Sat. night, $90 for Sun. and Mon.=$360 total
*Bellagio: $683 total (orbitz)
*Caesar's: $740 total
*The Mirage: $618 total (orbitz)
*Luxor: Sat. night $149, $99 for Sun. and Mon. night=$378 total
*MGM Grand
569 total
*Mandalay Bay: $509 with tax total
*New York New York: $479 total
*Paris: $387
Our main priorities are: being in the center of the strip, an awesome pool, fun atmosphere, and a nice room and bathroom. Which is these provides this and has the most value for the money? Right now, I think the Venetian, Bellagio, and the Mirage are my top favorites. I have signed up to receive special offers, so maybe some of these prices will come down as the date gets closer. What do you think?? Thanks!
My husband and I are headed to Vegas for the first time for 3 nights in June. (He doesn't know it yet, it's a surprise for his birthday!) We are going with my mother and stepfather as well. I am researching the hotels and they all sound so fun
We are mainly planning to hang out on the strip, sightsee all the hotels, gamble a little, maybe see a Cirque show, eat out and shop, and relax a bit by the pool. I have looked at all the famous hotels, and the prices are as follows:
*The Venetian : $179/night=$537 total
*Flamingo: $180 for Sat. night, $90 for Sun. and Mon.=$360 total
*Bellagio: $683 total (orbitz)
*Caesar's: $740 total
*The Mirage: $618 total (orbitz)
*Luxor: Sat. night $149, $99 for Sun. and Mon. night=$378 total
*MGM Grand
569 total*Mandalay Bay: $509 with tax total
*New York New York: $479 total
*Paris: $387
Our main priorities are: being in the center of the strip, an awesome pool, fun atmosphere, and a nice room and bathroom. Which is these provides this and has the most value for the money? Right now, I think the Venetian, Bellagio, and the Mirage are my top favorites. I have signed up to receive special offers, so maybe some of these prices will come down as the date gets closer. What do you think?? Thanks!
Feb 23rd, 2005, 05:46 PM
#2
Join Date: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,986
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Based on location I would cut out Luxor and Mandalay Bay. NYNY and MGM are not a whole lot better location-wise. Your best bets for location, in my opinion, are Bellagio, Paris, Flamingo and Caesars. Venetian and Mirage are good, but a bit further north.
I haven't used any of the pools, but Flamingo's is nice - it's set in the middle of a bird sanctuary with flamingos and penguins. You can visit the animal part even if you're not a guest, though.
Bellagio is probably the most luxurious of all the hotels, but you'll pay for that of course.
For the money and location, I'd probably choose Paris. I really like the casino and shops - it would be fun to walk through that every morning when you leave your hotel to explore. The food is great, and it's very central. But I can't comment on the pool. And, money is pretty important to me.
On the other hand, if the cost doesn't put you off, splurge at Bellagio and you won't be disappointed!
I haven't used any of the pools, but Flamingo's is nice - it's set in the middle of a bird sanctuary with flamingos and penguins. You can visit the animal part even if you're not a guest, though.
Bellagio is probably the most luxurious of all the hotels, but you'll pay for that of course.
For the money and location, I'd probably choose Paris. I really like the casino and shops - it would be fun to walk through that every morning when you leave your hotel to explore. The food is great, and it's very central. But I can't comment on the pool. And, money is pretty important to me.
On the other hand, if the cost doesn't put you off, splurge at Bellagio and you won't be disappointed!
Feb 23rd, 2005, 05:54 PM
#3
Join Date: Jan 2005
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
We received a AAA rate at the Flamingo of $138.00 for a Sat. in July. They don't offer that when you call to book but when I inquired about their price guarantee, they asked if I was a AAA member. They much rather you book with them directly than Travelocity which offers the AAA rate. Now I still have the option of cancelling should anything better come along!
Feb 23rd, 2005, 06:54 PM
#4
Join Date: Jan 2005
Posts: 248
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Based on what seem to be your top priorities--center strip location, great pool--and the prices you cite, I'd say Bellagio or Flamingo, depending on how much you feel you can spend. Although you also can't get much more center strip than the Paris, but I've heard the pool is not one of it's many strengths.
A note about Bellagio--you actually might not find the "fun atmosphere" you are looking for there. I have not stayed there, just walked through, but while looking very comfortable and luxurious, I found it really very subdued and understated. I did not think it was nearly as much of the type of over-the-top showplace that I would come to Vegas for, like the Venetian, Ceasars, Paris and Mirage are. It seemed a little like a Vegas hotel for people who would rather be somewhere else.
I really do not think I would choose it for myself unless I was paying top dollar for one of their fountain view suites, or if I had definitely fixed on "O" as the show I wanted to see, or if I was going to build my stay around spending much $ at their fabulous and very expensive restaurants. And, in fact, all of those things do sound very good given enough money. The pool is supposed to be outstanding. Do not, of course, fail to walk by for the terrific fountain show in any case, even if you think you don't like fountain shows.
Now, for myself, since my priorities would more be the room, view, and fun, over the top, wretched-excess public areas (pool is not a big thing for me)I'd choose the Venetian or Paris, depending on how much I wanted to spend. I'd normally consider The Mirage and Caesars too, but at the prices you cite I'd say they had priced themselves out of competition.
I think that the rate you have been quoted is a very good value for Paris, a very attractive, fun, interesting and centrally located hotel; and also, really, for Venetian, which is the most over the top fun showplace of them all. I understand even the basic rooms at Venetian are pretty spectacular, if the quality of furniture and linens may not be as great as at Bellagio.
While it's true that of the hotels you mention only Caesars, Flamingo, Bellagio and Paris are right at the center of the strip, I really don't think Mirage and Venetian are enough further away to make it an important distinction. It's just a long block difference. MGM, NYNY, Luxor and Mandalay are far enough away for the difference to be significant, though.
A note about Bellagio--you actually might not find the "fun atmosphere" you are looking for there. I have not stayed there, just walked through, but while looking very comfortable and luxurious, I found it really very subdued and understated. I did not think it was nearly as much of the type of over-the-top showplace that I would come to Vegas for, like the Venetian, Ceasars, Paris and Mirage are. It seemed a little like a Vegas hotel for people who would rather be somewhere else.
I really do not think I would choose it for myself unless I was paying top dollar for one of their fountain view suites, or if I had definitely fixed on "O" as the show I wanted to see, or if I was going to build my stay around spending much $ at their fabulous and very expensive restaurants. And, in fact, all of those things do sound very good given enough money. The pool is supposed to be outstanding. Do not, of course, fail to walk by for the terrific fountain show in any case, even if you think you don't like fountain shows.
Now, for myself, since my priorities would more be the room, view, and fun, over the top, wretched-excess public areas (pool is not a big thing for me)I'd choose the Venetian or Paris, depending on how much I wanted to spend. I'd normally consider The Mirage and Caesars too, but at the prices you cite I'd say they had priced themselves out of competition.
I think that the rate you have been quoted is a very good value for Paris, a very attractive, fun, interesting and centrally located hotel; and also, really, for Venetian, which is the most over the top fun showplace of them all. I understand even the basic rooms at Venetian are pretty spectacular, if the quality of furniture and linens may not be as great as at Bellagio.
While it's true that of the hotels you mention only Caesars, Flamingo, Bellagio and Paris are right at the center of the strip, I really don't think Mirage and Venetian are enough further away to make it an important distinction. It's just a long block difference. MGM, NYNY, Luxor and Mandalay are far enough away for the difference to be significant, though.
Feb 24th, 2005, 03:56 AM
#7
Join Date: Jul 2004
Posts: 69
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Everyone has their own opinion so here is mine. Our favorite place to stay is the Bellagio. Yes you do pay more but it is worth it. You want nice pools and theirs are beautiful. There arent as many children running around. Flamingo has great pools but there are many children and the pool areas can be very loud and crowded. However, that seemed to be a very good price.
Just because you stay at the Bellagio doesnt mean you have to have all your meals there. I would definitely get a fountain view room and looking out the window at night you will have a perfect view of Paris and the Eifel tower. Its so beautiful at night when the lights are on. I have never read that Paris is known for its pool. In fact I think that people have been disappointed by them. Paris is right across the street from the Bellagio so you could dine there. They have several good options.Anyway have fun and happy searching. What shows are you considering?
Mary
Just because you stay at the Bellagio doesnt mean you have to have all your meals there. I would definitely get a fountain view room and looking out the window at night you will have a perfect view of Paris and the Eifel tower. Its so beautiful at night when the lights are on. I have never read that Paris is known for its pool. In fact I think that people have been disappointed by them. Paris is right across the street from the Bellagio so you could dine there. They have several good options.Anyway have fun and happy searching. What shows are you considering?
Mary
Feb 24th, 2005, 06:28 AM
#10
Join Date: Feb 2005
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Hi Beachgirl,
If you have any interest in visiting the spa at the hotel, I can hightly recommend staying at the Luxor. They have the best spa I've ever been to. Try the hot rock massage... it's divine.
However, as others have pointed out, if you want to be center strip, the Luxor isn't erally there. The regular rooms are nice, though nothing spectacular. If you need to stick to a budget though, it's a great deal.
There's a tram that travels from the Luxor to the Excalibur and one other hotel (I think the MGM but I can't remember for certain & couldn't find it on the website).
The pool also at the Luxor is gorgeous. I don't know how crowded it will be in June though - since Luxor is a less expensive hotel than the others you are looking at, it may well be full of children at that time of year.
I've never stayed at the Bellagio, but I do love that hotel. Whether you stay there or not, please do visit their Conservatory. It is truly an amazing place, absolutely gorgeous no matter how it is decorated (the plants/topiaries/etc. are changed regularly with the seasons - their fall display last year was the best I'd seen there yet).
Caesar's has the best shopping on the strip. The Forum Shops offer something for everyone - some upscale shops, some more moderately priced shops, some entertainment, some good restaurants... etc. The Cheesecake Factory is a great place for dinner - though it's probably best to make a reservation, it is always packed.
Mandalay Bay is an attractive hotel, and there are a few interesting shops. Still, better shopping at Caesar's. Their pool area is gorgeous and has a man made beach.
I'm not a fan of NYNY or Paris myself...
Another one I'd suggest checking out is the Aladdin. Again, I haven't stayed there... But we spent some time in the shops during our last visit and they shopping area isactually very nice - a strong second to the shops at Caesar's. If you visit the Aladdin
If you have any interest in visiting the spa at the hotel, I can hightly recommend staying at the Luxor. They have the best spa I've ever been to. Try the hot rock massage... it's divine.
However, as others have pointed out, if you want to be center strip, the Luxor isn't erally there. The regular rooms are nice, though nothing spectacular. If you need to stick to a budget though, it's a great deal.
There's a tram that travels from the Luxor to the Excalibur and one other hotel (I think the MGM but I can't remember for certain & couldn't find it on the website).
The pool also at the Luxor is gorgeous. I don't know how crowded it will be in June though - since Luxor is a less expensive hotel than the others you are looking at, it may well be full of children at that time of year.
I've never stayed at the Bellagio, but I do love that hotel. Whether you stay there or not, please do visit their Conservatory. It is truly an amazing place, absolutely gorgeous no matter how it is decorated (the plants/topiaries/etc. are changed regularly with the seasons - their fall display last year was the best I'd seen there yet).
Caesar's has the best shopping on the strip. The Forum Shops offer something for everyone - some upscale shops, some more moderately priced shops, some entertainment, some good restaurants... etc. The Cheesecake Factory is a great place for dinner - though it's probably best to make a reservation, it is always packed.
Mandalay Bay is an attractive hotel, and there are a few interesting shops. Still, better shopping at Caesar's. Their pool area is gorgeous and has a man made beach.
I'm not a fan of NYNY or Paris myself...
Another one I'd suggest checking out is the Aladdin. Again, I haven't stayed there... But we spent some time in the shops during our last visit and they shopping area isactually very nice - a strong second to the shops at Caesar's. If you visit the Aladdin
Feb 24th, 2005, 06:29 AM
#11
Join Date: Feb 2005
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Whoops, hit post too soon.
I was saying, if you visit the Aladdin, stop by the Italin sandwich place for gelato and sandwiches... We had a great lunch for two there for about $20. Good coffee too!
Have fun!
-Sandra
219 days til
I was saying, if you visit the Aladdin, stop by the Italin sandwich place for gelato and sandwiches... We had a great lunch for two there for about $20. Good coffee too!
Have fun!
-Sandra
219 days til
Feb 24th, 2005, 06:42 AM
#12
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 2,466
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
based on those prices i'd choose the paris (try to get a room facing the bellagio fountains). it's a great location and newer hotel.
next i'd choose the flamingo. again, great location, nice pool area. it's a little older so if you are fussy this may not be the best choice.
most people spend so little time in their rooms in vegas, i'd rather save the money for shows, dinners, gambling. we stayed there last year with a strip view, very large room and it was clean.
next i'd choose the flamingo. again, great location, nice pool area. it's a little older so if you are fussy this may not be the best choice.
most people spend so little time in their rooms in vegas, i'd rather save the money for shows, dinners, gambling. we stayed there last year with a strip view, very large room and it was clean.
Feb 24th, 2005, 06:44 AM
#13
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,620
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I will pile on the Paris bandwagon. One option that you do not list is Monte Carlo. Some may think it is too far South but I don't buy that. I do agree that Luxor and Mandalay Bay are too South.
Someone else mentioned Aladdin, that is another good one to check out.
Someone else mentioned Aladdin, that is another good one to check out.
Feb 24th, 2005, 12:15 PM
#16
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 1,344
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
These are EXCELLENT tips, thank you so much, everyone! I am actually watching a Travel Channel show on The Venetian right now, and it looks fabulous! I will be pouring through your posts over the next day, thank you so much for all your advice!
Feb 24th, 2005, 02:07 PM
#18
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 670
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Based on the hotels you listed and your priorities, I would suggest either Bellagio or Caesars Palace. Both of those are higher end properties that do not cater to children so their pools - although awesome - won't be as overrun with kids as others, like the Mirage and Flamingo. I love Paris as a hotel, but the pool there isn't any better than any you'd find in any apartment complex anywhere. You will pay a higher price, but for a special ocassion and considering it's 4 adults, I think the atmosphere would suit you better and you can't beat the rooms and service in either of these hotels.
Feb 24th, 2005, 02:28 PM
#20
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 670
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The amount of kids at the pool at the Mirage (and Flamingo) increase greatly once the summer months arrive. Those pools are really cool and the kids love them. If you've got kids - these are great places to stay in the summer, but if it's a group of adults or a couple - it gets pretty crowded.
