Vegas hotel questions from a novice..
Dec 28th, 2008, 09:13 AM
#41
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The UNLV website says that their 50 memter pool has open public swim hours. You'd need to call for specifics. Also, it looks like there are a lot of 24 Hour Fitness centers in Las Vegas, most of which have lap pools. It's usually pretty easy to get a visitor or guest pass there. It seems like if you're trying to get some real exercise, then a lap pool where everyone else has the same objective would work better than a hotel pool.
Dec 28th, 2008, 10:14 AM
#42
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Narrowed it down to these two, which have pools that should be heated and open:
Venetian $139 per night plus $50 casino credit and $30 credit at Woo Restaurant (cannot find out anything about Woo--apparently as "Asian" restaurant)
or
Bellagio ($129 a night)
I would love any comments about these two to help me decide!
We are not planning to rent a car, but could change our minds about this..
Can you walk to any decent non-hotel breakfast places so as not to be stuck at the expensive hotel restaurants for breakfast?
Thanks!
Venetian $139 per night plus $50 casino credit and $30 credit at Woo Restaurant (cannot find out anything about Woo--apparently as "Asian" restaurant)
or
Bellagio ($129 a night)
I would love any comments about these two to help me decide!
We are not planning to rent a car, but could change our minds about this..
Can you walk to any decent non-hotel breakfast places so as not to be stuck at the expensive hotel restaurants for breakfast?
Thanks!
Dec 28th, 2008, 11:05 AM
#45
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Thanks--I am getting a headache thinking about this!! You can probably tell that the trip is not actually my idea!
Do you think renting a car is a good idea, provided I can find a decent price? I am the one who wants to swim laps, while my partner will be good for gambling for a while, until he runs out of $$!!
We don't care about shopping, but I hate the idea of being trapped in the hotel at mealtimes--we might go to one upscale restaurant but other than that...??
Apart from that, we just want to wander around and gawk at the whole scene--
Do you think renting a car is a good idea, provided I can find a decent price? I am the one who wants to swim laps, while my partner will be good for gambling for a while, until he runs out of $$!!
We don't care about shopping, but I hate the idea of being trapped in the hotel at mealtimes--we might go to one upscale restaurant but other than that...??
Apart from that, we just want to wander around and gawk at the whole scene--
Dec 28th, 2008, 12:38 PM
#46
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Hey!
Indoor pools in Vegas??? Good luck sistah! Scrunchy are you going to pass through LAX? Are you seeing any Vegas shows?
My own dining experinece in Vegas is limited. Being from NY you won't be impressed with the dining.
There are supposed to be some good steak places though. No lechazo!
We went to Aureloe in Mandalay bay (nice,but $$$$.)
Alize on the very top of the Palms (nice $$$$ killer view. You get to see the "in crowd" in the elevator heading to nightclubs.
Olives @ Bellagio was ok nothing special. Less $$ though.
They have good bread at a bistro in the front of the Paris..can't remember name Mimi's?
Personally, I like to listen to music & people watch in the lounge of the Paris Hotel casino (no cover) also have excellent groups playing there in that lounge.
There is also a small piano lounge in the rear area of the Ceasars Casino that has great music (not Cleoplatra's barge it's further back.) Cleopatra's Barge is the only place I have gotten Mr. Don to shake his booty on the dance floor once or twice to the hits from the 70s/80s (it's a rare thing though)
Car rental??? Only if you get a bargain. Parking is not easy & the strip has MAJOR heavy traffic.
YOu won't belive how Vegas has changed! It's slow going to drive on it especially at night now.
Allow extra time to go anywhere.
Freemont street has a light show set to hard rock that is worth a looksy. Take earplugs unless you like VERY loud music.
You will see what Tim Gunn calls the "slovification of America though...what a sideshow.
Zoomanity by the folks at Cirque Du Soliel was amusing & fun (a bit naughty but not really)
Have a massage in your hotel
Have a great time
ana
Indoor pools in Vegas??? Good luck sistah! Scrunchy are you going to pass through LAX? Are you seeing any Vegas shows?
My own dining experinece in Vegas is limited. Being from NY you won't be impressed with the dining.
There are supposed to be some good steak places though. No lechazo!
We went to Aureloe in Mandalay bay (nice,but $$$$.)
Alize on the very top of the Palms (nice $$$$ killer view. You get to see the "in crowd" in the elevator heading to nightclubs.
Olives @ Bellagio was ok nothing special. Less $$ though.
They have good bread at a bistro in the front of the Paris..can't remember name Mimi's?
Personally, I like to listen to music & people watch in the lounge of the Paris Hotel casino (no cover) also have excellent groups playing there in that lounge.
There is also a small piano lounge in the rear area of the Ceasars Casino that has great music (not Cleoplatra's barge it's further back.) Cleopatra's Barge is the only place I have gotten Mr. Don to shake his booty on the dance floor once or twice to the hits from the 70s/80s (it's a rare thing though)
Car rental??? Only if you get a bargain. Parking is not easy & the strip has MAJOR heavy traffic.
YOu won't belive how Vegas has changed! It's slow going to drive on it especially at night now.
Allow extra time to go anywhere.
Freemont street has a light show set to hard rock that is worth a looksy. Take earplugs unless you like VERY loud music.
You will see what Tim Gunn calls the "slovification of America though...what a sideshow.
Zoomanity by the folks at Cirque Du Soliel was amusing & fun (a bit naughty but not really)
Have a massage in your hotel
Have a great time
ana
Dec 28th, 2008, 04:56 PM
#48
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I had a car rental though I hardly used it; it was $12/day. It's worth it at that price. Don't choose Fox car rental because they are off off site. Most of the big names are in one place that the shuttle takes you to. There is free parking at all the hotels and I didn't find it too difficult. I liked feeling like I could take off anytime I wanted and explore. Our suite at Mandalay Bay was so nice, we ended up spending a lot of time just relaxing in our room.
Two eateries worth checking out IMO: a patisserie at Bellagio next to the conservatory; caloric art. Second one is at Caesar's Palace, there is a Shanghai noodle shop where they make noodles BY HAND in the window and you can sit at the bar and watch them or get a table. We didn't eat there because we were leaving but I will definitely try it out next time. Noodle dishes were about $18 which I think is very cheap by Vegas standards and a great value considering the location and setting.
Two eateries worth checking out IMO: a patisserie at Bellagio next to the conservatory; caloric art. Second one is at Caesar's Palace, there is a Shanghai noodle shop where they make noodles BY HAND in the window and you can sit at the bar and watch them or get a table. We didn't eat there because we were leaving but I will definitely try it out next time. Noodle dishes were about $18 which I think is very cheap by Vegas standards and a great value considering the location and setting.
Dec 28th, 2008, 10:06 PM
#50
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It snowed a week or so ago in Vegas. Are you sure Venetian/Bellagio pools are open?
I do know the Platinum which is a nice, newer place located just behind Bally's off the strip has an indoor/outdoor pool that's open in winter. It's one of the newer condotels with kitchens, fireplaces, etc.
I do know the Platinum which is a nice, newer place located just behind Bally's off the strip has an indoor/outdoor pool that's open in winter. It's one of the newer condotels with kitchens, fireplaces, etc.
Dec 29th, 2008, 03:50 AM
#51
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Well I can see that you all think I am nutty about this swimming in Vegas idea! I didi call the Bellagio and Venetian. Bellagio told me their pools is open all year round and definitely open in January. Venetian told me that they close the pool only if it rains and that it was open yesterday and will be open in January, if it is not raining.
As usual, I appear to be obsessing about swimming. I planned a big SE Asia trip last winter, choosing my hotels on the basis of which ones had pools and guess what--it was too cold to swim most of the time!
Ana--How embarrassing to be caught out here in the midst of preparations for--not Pedraza, not even Sacramenia--but LAS VEGAS!!! I appreciate all the info about the food and will jot down the places you mentioned. My partner is a big American standard-type-music fan (he last visited Vegas when Frank reigned) so if you think of anything for him let me know.
About the food--can we walk to eat breakfast outside the hotel or is everything too far? We live in NYC, as Amsdon mentioned, so are not really too interested in the big name places (not that we go to them often at home!!) and will not want to spend $100 each for dinner anyway. Really good Asian would be great (will check out the Shanghai place at Caesar's) but overall, I expect we will try one buffet, just to see what it's like. I think I read that the Wynn is best..
Ok, now off to look up the Platinum with indoor pool!!
Thanks,everyone, for all of your help so far!
As usual, I appear to be obsessing about swimming. I planned a big SE Asia trip last winter, choosing my hotels on the basis of which ones had pools and guess what--it was too cold to swim most of the time!
Ana--How embarrassing to be caught out here in the midst of preparations for--not Pedraza, not even Sacramenia--but LAS VEGAS!!! I appreciate all the info about the food and will jot down the places you mentioned. My partner is a big American standard-type-music fan (he last visited Vegas when Frank reigned) so if you think of anything for him let me know.
About the food--can we walk to eat breakfast outside the hotel or is everything too far? We live in NYC, as Amsdon mentioned, so are not really too interested in the big name places (not that we go to them often at home!!) and will not want to spend $100 each for dinner anyway. Really good Asian would be great (will check out the Shanghai place at Caesar's) but overall, I expect we will try one buffet, just to see what it's like. I think I read that the Wynn is best..
Ok, now off to look up the Platinum with indoor pool!!
Thanks,everyone, for all of your help so far!
Dec 29th, 2008, 04:02 AM
#52
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Checked Platinum--$139 is cheapest room. But it is a non-gaming hotel so partner will not be happy....
Again, many thanks to everyone who helped me out here--will decide today or tomorrow and let you know where we booked!
Ana: We fly direct from NYC,so will put the LA GTG on hold for the time being. It will be much more fun to meet over a plate of lechazo, anyway!
Again, many thanks to everyone who helped me out here--will decide today or tomorrow and let you know where we booked!
Ana: We fly direct from NYC,so will put the LA GTG on hold for the time being. It will be much more fun to meet over a plate of lechazo, anyway!
Dec 29th, 2008, 05:55 AM
#53
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Que lastima! Oh well lechazo sounds good.
I was surprised to see the indoor outdoor pool at the Platinum (which I have never seen) This may be the only indoor pool unless you count a hot tub in a spa.
http://www.theplatinumhotel.com/popup/pic29.cfm
I was surprised to see the indoor outdoor pool at the Platinum (which I have never seen) This may be the only indoor pool unless you count a hot tub in a spa.
http://www.theplatinumhotel.com/popup/pic29.cfm
Jan 4th, 2009, 12:25 PM
#54
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Thanks to all of you who were so generous with your time, we finally settled on the Bellagio,for $129 a night.
We will also rent a car; prices are very very low--I am seeing rates of about $45 for the three days. Total.
Ok, now on the better things:
I would welcome any tips on eating great food outside of the hotels.. Lotus of Siam seems to get great reviews--can anyone comment on this place?
http://www.saipinchutima.com/
Are there any hidden-away locals places..steak or Italian? Or anything else?
And what about these buffets that seem to be all the rage? Can the food really be great quality, or is it just quantity that is the draw here? I would not mind seeing one of these, but should we actually eat at one? (I think I know the answer already, but please feel free to comment!!)
Many thanks!!
We will also rent a car; prices are very very low--I am seeing rates of about $45 for the three days. Total.
Ok, now on the better things:
I would welcome any tips on eating great food outside of the hotels.. Lotus of Siam seems to get great reviews--can anyone comment on this place?
http://www.saipinchutima.com/
Are there any hidden-away locals places..steak or Italian? Or anything else?
And what about these buffets that seem to be all the rage? Can the food really be great quality, or is it just quantity that is the draw here? I would not mind seeing one of these, but should we actually eat at one? (I think I know the answer already, but please feel free to comment!!)
Many thanks!!
Jan 4th, 2009, 04:35 PM
#55
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Sorry Scrunchita haven't been to the Thai place yet.
There is supposed to be a place that is a landmark Rosewood Grille off the strip specializes in steak & huge lobsters....maybe someone here knows? We've meant to go many times.
To answer you questions re buffets:
"Can the food (at buffets) really be great quality?"
Nope,not really. Depends on your standards. I see hordes of people binging on crab sometimes though as if it were their last meal.
"Or is it just quantity that is the draw here?
Yes, all you can eat dearie. And the price I guess. I would swing past just to peek in on one to get a feel. The Rio brunch is supposed to be one of the best..? Perhaps at lunch it is the better value (cheaper).
You will see many many people with multiple plates, loaded with
combinatins like roast beef, next to sushi, next to fried chicken, next to pasta, next to pastries ...aghhhh.
Looking for red meat? I heard Craftsteak at MGM was good but $$$.
Flemings also has a good rep.
The old school places that are in the older hotels too like HOuse of Lords in the Sahara (yukky hotel though) and Kristofers in the Riviera still serve the old time menus..There is Primestaek right in your hotel...maybe if you loose enough dinero at the tables they will comp you.
We used to like the place at the Aladdin but it's now Planet Hollywood so I am not much help. Lo siento.
I would say if you do try buffet t, try not to look at other people's plates as you pass it is very un appetising.
Get a photo with the dudes at Cesars.
There is supposed to be a place that is a landmark Rosewood Grille off the strip specializes in steak & huge lobsters....maybe someone here knows? We've meant to go many times.
To answer you questions re buffets:
"Can the food (at buffets) really be great quality?"
Nope,not really. Depends on your standards. I see hordes of people binging on crab sometimes though as if it were their last meal.
"Or is it just quantity that is the draw here?
Yes, all you can eat dearie. And the price I guess. I would swing past just to peek in on one to get a feel. The Rio brunch is supposed to be one of the best..? Perhaps at lunch it is the better value (cheaper).
You will see many many people with multiple plates, loaded with
combinatins like roast beef, next to sushi, next to fried chicken, next to pasta, next to pastries ...aghhhh.
Looking for red meat? I heard Craftsteak at MGM was good but $$$.
Flemings also has a good rep.
The old school places that are in the older hotels too like HOuse of Lords in the Sahara (yukky hotel though) and Kristofers in the Riviera still serve the old time menus..There is Primestaek right in your hotel...maybe if you loose enough dinero at the tables they will comp you.
We used to like the place at the Aladdin but it's now Planet Hollywood so I am not much help. Lo siento.
I would say if you do try buffet t, try not to look at other people's plates as you pass it is very un appetising.
Get a photo with the dudes at Cesars.
Jan 4th, 2009, 07:29 PM
#56
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There is a Shanghai noodle shop No. 9 in Caesar's Palace that looks intriguing. I can't wait to go back and try it; we were on our way to the airport when I came across it. They make noodles by HAND in the window and serve it to you. Prices are quite moderate.
Jan 5th, 2009, 07:45 AM
#57
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I always start with discounted sites and then ALWAYS compare against the hotel/airline/cruise site. Sometimes, the actual hotel has the same deal without the convienance charges that the discount sites tack on (making it more expensive).
I'm staying at the Trump Tower (located in the middle of new and old part of the strip, across from the shopping outlets). Best deal was gtahotels.com (?). Weekend for $130/night in March. Check it out.
Good luck on breakfast! Vegas has gone cheap on all the fancy extras.
I'm staying at the Trump Tower (located in the middle of new and old part of the strip, across from the shopping outlets). Best deal was gtahotels.com (?). Weekend for $130/night in March. Check it out.
Good luck on breakfast! Vegas has gone cheap on all the fancy extras.
Jan 5th, 2009, 02:03 PM
#58
Nora's is a really good local's Italian restaurant. Be sure to take a drive out to Red Rock Canyon, or out around Valley of Fire and Lake Mead. If you're up in North Vegas, the "Centennial Hills" neighborhood, stop in at Retro Bakery for the best cupcakes anywhere!
Jan 5th, 2009, 05:50 PM
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I didn't take the time to view all the replies, so I hope I am not too redundant. I am on the email list for most of the major hotels. They are sending me room specials all the time and they are all well below your desired limits. Once you receive the advertisement, many times the hotels will display the rates by the day so you can see what days of the week are cheaper. As example, a Monday will be 1 price, but a Monday just 2 weeks later will be much higher or lower. It all depends on the conventions and shows that are going on in town. I have stayed there for pleasure as well as worked in the area for a 45 day period. You will definitely enjoy the trip. I agree with many of the respondents when they say if you stay in the strip immediate area, a taxi is the only way to go. PLEASE avoid the off strip areas in North Las Vegas... easy to get off the beaten path and could result in a beating (not the best area). Please enjoy the shows in Vegas. The mainline shows (like Phantom of the Opera and the Cirque de Solis) have their own theaters built especially for them. ENJOY the trip!!
