Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 11, 2000

Posted on October 11, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it!

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Las Vegas Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars – All Cities: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Discount Hotel Rooms – All Cities: http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Kids in Las Vegas

Curious about a show, restaurant, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

VEGAS ON TV – Two fall shows have a Las Vegas setting this fall. C.S.I. is crime drama about Las Vegas forensic investigators and airs Friday nights on CBS. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-09-Mon-2000/living/14554329.html Nikki Cox plays a Las Vegas showgirl in love with a wrestler in the WB comedy Nikki on Sunday nights. Story at http://www.tvguide.com/newsgossip/insider/001006c.asp

FINE DINING – Reporter Phil Vettel took a romp through many of the new upscale restaurants including Delmonico, Nobu, Trattoria del Lupo, Eiffel Tower restaurant, and more. Full story at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/57746_finedine.html

HALLOWEEN – Everything from the WCW Halloween Havoc 2000 to a KISS tribute band to a costume party in Caesar’s Magical Empire is on tap for Halloween. Full listing at http://www.vegas.com/halloween.html

FALL COLORS – If you have ever thought of getting away from the tables for a few hours and seeing some of Southern Nevada, there is no time like the present. Mt. Charleston is less than an hour from the Strip but a world apart from Las Vegas with the cool temperatures and vegetation. The leaves are turning, creating some great photo opportunities. Story and beautiful pictures at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-08-Sun-2000/living/14528055.html

VIRTUAL BLACKJACK – Some casinos are getting ready to experiment with dealing a “virtual” deck of cards. You still place your chips, have a human dealer, but cards are displayed on screens. Full story at http://www.lvbusinesspress.com/news/stories/00092502n.html and our poll at http://www.accessvegas.com this week asks you how you would feel about playing against “virtual” cards.

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

LAS VEGAS AIR SHOW – The inaugural Las Vegas International Air Show will take place October 13, 14 and 15 at the Jean Sport Aviation Center, located approximately 20 miles south of Las Vegas, and free shuttles are provided. Show info at http://www.lvairshow.com

RADIO MUSIC AWARDS – are coming to the Aladdin featuring Christina Aquilera, Everclear, Enrique Inglesias, Joe, Ricky Martin, 98 Degrees, No Doubt, Pink, Sugar Ray, Ocsar De La Hoya, and many more. Tickets on sale this Saturday at 10 AM Pacific time at (702) 785-5000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Wednesday – 75/64 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 68/53 Mostly Cloudy
Friday – 74/46 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 76/47 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 78/47 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Note: This is a repeat of the feature story from June 24, 1999. At the time, we only had a fraction of the readership now, and the question of whether to bring kids to Vegas continues to be a hot topic. In addition, last weekend I had the misfortune to see young children out on the Strip and downtown well past what anyone would consider to be a reasonable bedtime.

FEATURE STORY: Kids In Las Vegas

Bringing children to Las Vegas has long been an intense debate among both Las Vegas tourists and tourism professionals. In the early 90’s, casinos thought it would be a great idea to build theme parks and try to turn the town’s image from “sin city” to “family friendly.” Then they realized that they GOOFED. Mirage Resorts started instituting “no stroller” policies, and hotels like the Riviera and Tropicana started advertising slogans like “Rollers, Not Strollers.” The word got around that catering to families is stupid because they use the cheap rooms, eat the cheap food, and are too busy with the kids to gamble.

While we aren’t concerned about the casino’s bottom line (our income is derived from booking rooms and rental cars), every trip to the Strip or downtown — made often in this line of work — we see tourtured-looking parents with the mommy pushing the stroller and the daddy dragging along the 5 year old, neither of whom should have been subjected to miles of walking through this adult playground.

I’ve seen happier faces on gamblers who just lost 5 straight $100 hands at blackjack than on these parents faces, who undoubtedly have to be envious of all child-free tourist couples whom look like they are having the romantic vacation of a lifetime. And these kids that young won’t remember their first visit to Las Vegas.

If your children are old enough that you feel comfortable letting them run around an amusement park, checking in every few hours, then they will find plenty to do here. Just give them the cell phone, you keep that SkyTell pager, and have a great time. And if they are old enough to perhaps remember a supervised vacation and you can resist the temptation of parking them in the hallway or stuffing in the room while you take just one more pull or play just one more hand (let’s face it, winning seems to always happen when you don’t have the time to keep playing), then you might do fine.

But you will be happiest leaving them with the grandparents for the weekend and really enjoying your stay.

Next week, we return back to regular reviews, but the amount of very young children baking in the summer heat and the unhappy parents pushing them around that we have seen the past couple of weeks made us feel compelled to comment.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

BARGAIN ROOM RATES – Aladdin for $64.95? Stardust for $19.95? No, it’s not 1990. These are the actual room rates available the week leading up to Christmas and other “off-peak” times. Limited availability so act now at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Lisa from Santa Rosa, CA wrote:

>I am a frequent visitor to Vegas and have always rented a car instead
>of dealing with high price cab fares and unkind cabbies.á I have
>always heard of a bus that leaves from the airport and all you pay is
>$5.00, I have also heard this can be done with a limousine service.á I
>will be in town for New Years Eve and don’t want to rent a car since
>streets will be closed.á Do you have any information on these cheaper
>ways from the airport to the strip hotels ?á Thanks.

We share your feeling about the cost of cabs — I prefer to rent a car also. Let me clear up one point: Only the Strip itself is closed, and that closure doesn’t start until about 8-9 PM and it is open again by 3 AM. I usually don’t arrive down at the Strip for New Year’s Eve until 8 PM, and use back roads to get to parking garages like Paris or MGM (although that is pushing it). The LVCVA has the info you are looking for at http://www.vegasfreedom.com/play-12.asp

Jessica Lehnert wrote:

>Where is the best Jacuzzi suite in Las Vegas ?

Readers … do you have any suggestions for her? Write to allvegastv@aol.com

Tedd & Kathy Adamek of Nutley, N.J wrote:

>Read you religiously and appreciate the deals. Just
>got back from implosion weekend and was greatly
>disappointed in the new Aladdin Hotel. Each new hotel
>built added a new “WOW” to Vegas. This one had
>nothing!! It didn’t even have an eye catching
>appearance to draw you in. Once inside it had the
>cheesiest decor that gave us a big laugh. The Desert
>Passage (shops) were no comparison to the Forum Shops
>and just as empty as the Venetian Shops. So I hope
>that no one has their hearts set on seeing a new
>spectacular Hotel & Casino as was the case with Paris,
>Bellagio & Mandalay Bay. Tip of the trip– Monte
>Carlo’s Market City Cafe. Great Italian food, nice
>atmosphere & reasonable prices.

W. Forsyth wrote:

>Love your Access Vegas News and Reviews.á Visiting Vegas in the next
>two weeks.á Are you aware of any great deals on exchanging Canadian
>Money.á PS.á Please advise the best rate of exchange.á We will be leaving
>before your next issue.

We have readers in over 40 countries — let us know where you prefer to exchange your currency? Write to allvegastv@aol.com

George Watson of Scotland wrote:

>My wife and I had an enjoyable nine days in
>Vegas.á We took a video camera with us to take shots to remind us of
>our visit.á Having got the usual external shots, including the
>implosion of El Rancho, we investigated taking some internal ones.
>Some Casinos have no restrictions, some have restricted areas while
>others will not allow any filming inside.á Any one interested in
>filming inside should go to the security desk first to find out the
>Casinos policy on filming.á The biggest surprise was that some Malls
>forbid filming.

That’s a great point to remind people. Always ask security before filming in a casino. You might get away with a quick shot of your partner at a slot machine, but many casinos continue to frown on photography to protect the privacy of their clients.

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com While space doesn’t permit publishing every letter, we do certainly read them all and they help shape our content. Please include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc., if accepted.

Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Scenic Southwest Tours – by plane, bus, or even helicopter! You’ve seen the glossy ads in the tourist brochures. You’ve thought about it. You come all the way to Las Vegas — why not see one of the some of the most famous landmarks in the world! Don’t by tricked by web sites & magazines that offer discount tours. Taxes, park fees, permits can almost double the price. Our prices are inclusive – no hidden charges! Best Las Vegas Tours

ONLINE POLL – “Would you prefer Digital Blackjack (dealer hits button, computer “deals” on a screen) to traditional blackjack?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last weeks poll “How interested are you in riding the monorail when it is completed?”

I did that once at Disneyland when I was a kid. 11%
Might try it once, but I don’t see the point. 15%
Probably, as long as it is an easier way to travel the Strip. 50%
I can’t wait … anything to get me away from traffic and crowds! 23%

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

Note: We will announce the winners of the collectable Viva Las Vegas tickets next week.

STATION CASINOS – We have a coupon book with $2100 (not a misprint) in coupons for the various Las Vegas area station casino properties. Coupons include free or 1/2 price food and drinks, match play coupons, bingo, apparel and more. We’ll take the 20’th entry at (contest closed)

INVENSYS CLASSIC – golf tournament is in town through the weekend. We have one copy of the Review-Journal’s special comprehensive section on this tournament. Perfect for the avid golf fan. Enter at (contest closed)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates,
but please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
October 11, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 4, 2000

Posted on October 4, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews, the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it!

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Le Village Buffet

Curious about a show, restaurant, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

EL RANCHO – The longtime vacated eyesore hotel on the upper Strip is gone! The implosion went smoothly. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-04-Wed-2000/news/14532490.html and online video is archived at http://broadband.ibsys.com:8080/ramgen/2000/1003/97954.rm?usehostname&owner=natl&site=natl&app=page

CHEAP EATS – Every year, more and more Las Vegas food deals go the way of the Sands Hotel (imploded 3 years ago) but reporter Alan Solomon came to town and managed to hit many of the great specials that are left. Full story at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/57743_cheapeat.html

VEGAS CLUBS – In light of a recent drug-overdose death, the temporary closing of C2K due to legal problems, and intense public scrutiny, Las Vegas clubs are under the microscope. They are going all-out to prove that they are safe places where drugs are frowned upon. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-24-Sun-2000/living/14274202.html

IN-ROOM COMPUTERS – As noted in our recent newsletter highlighting the Aladdin opening (archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-08-23.htm ), the Aladdin is in the process of placing computers in every room which will allow guests to surf the web with high-speed access. Other resorts are looking to follow suit, an acknowledgment that the internet is now getting as important to many of us as phone service. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-25-Mon-2000/business/14385676.html

If you are looking for a good free e-mail program so you can read your e-mail anywhere you can get online, we provide (and use) Vegas Mail at http://vegas.zzn.com The email program simple to use, but has filters and signatures for advanced users, as well as a calendar and “to do” list for all. Plus, it is a great way to let everyone know you love Las Vegas!

MOTOR TREND – is bringing one of their famed car shows to Las Vegas in late November. Featuring exotic vehicles, NASCAR exhibits and family oriented promotions, the show will be at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 24-26. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-22-Fri-2000/weekly/14402775.html

AIRLINES – Delta is running very cheap internet fares to Las Vegas from select cities. Info at http://www.delta.com/travel/sp_offers/lasvegas_fall00/index.jsp

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

STEVE WYRICK – The noted magician’s much-delayed show has opened at The Sahara. The R-J just reviewed it at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-22-Fri-2000/weekly/14420101.html

TITANIC – The Exhibition ends its run at the Rio at the end of October. You can read our review archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-04-12.htm

MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS – The new show based on the best-selling book is reviewed at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-22-Fri-2000/weekly/14416640.html

KING AND QUEEN OF THE BEACH – Top pro beach volleyball comes to the Hard Rock this weekend Oct. 5-8. Expected to appear are Holly McPeak, Misty May, Linda Hanley, Jose Loiola, Adam Johnson, Mike Whitmarsh, Brian Lewis, and many more. Tickets at (702) 693-5066 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Thursday – 89/64 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 91/54 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 89/53 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 88/55 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Le Village Buffet

Le Village Buffet at the Paris Las Vegas hotel is a unique dining experience, both in atmosphere and food. Similar to Bellagio, it features an almost park-like setting nicely broken up as opposed to the typical “warehouse” feel of most buffets. Similar to both Bellagio and the new Aladdin buffet, it features a significant variety of top quality food, much of which is cooked and watched over by chefs at each dining station.

Because the food is so rich and unique, I’ve decided to list a sample dinner menu instead of doing a review. If you like the following fare, you’ll enjoy dining at Le Village Buffet and find it well worth the upscale price:

DINNER MENU:

SEAFOOD BOUIILABAISE
ROAST DUCKLING WITH GREEN OLIVES
VEGETABLE RATATOLJILLE NICOISE
CHICKEN FRICASSE WITH RIESL1NG WINE
SCALLOPED POTATOES
BRAISED HOMEMADE SAUSAGE
SALMON, GREEN CABBAGE AND BEURRE BLANC
ChAMPAGNE BRAISED SAUERKRAUT
VENISON STEW WITH GLAZED ONIONS
GRILLED PORK CHOPS WITH ONION MARMALADE
ROASTED PIT HAM AND BLACK CURRANT SAUCE
ROASTED RIB EVE AND BEAUJOLAIS SAUCE

BEEF BOIJRGOUIGNON
SHRIMP SALAD
MONTE CARL0 SALAD
SAUTEED SHRIMP WITH SHALLOTS
STEAMED MUSSELS POULETTE
DOVER SOLE WITH ROCK SHRIMP
SPINACH AU GRATIIN
SAUTEED TUNA TOITRNEDOS AND CREAMY LEEKS

FRESH PREPARED CREPES
SMOKED SALMON, SMOKED TUNA AND SMOKED SADLE
FRENCH ONION SOUP
WILD MUSHROOM BISQUE
KING CRAB LEGS

ASSORTED BRIE AND GRUYERE CHEESE
FRIPLE CHOCOLATE TERRINE
BISCUIT DE SAVOIE WITH VANILLA SAUCE
OPERA CAKE

Le Village Buffet is located in Paris Las Vegas and open for breakfast ($10.95), lunch ($14.95), and dinner ($23.50). Reservations are not accepted, but instead of making you wait in a long line, when they are busy they assign you a time window (15 minutes long, i.e., 8:30 – 8:45 PM) in which to return and dine. Go an hour or more in advance of the time you wish to dine to secure your spot on the list.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

>Michele from Dallas again…with words of appreciation.
>
>I subscribe to several newsletters on several topics of
>interest.á This is the one that I actually retain information in my
>memory on.á I like it because, like all other newsletters I receive, I
>scroll down them in my preview pane.á Because, the sentences are short
>and succinct, I pick up on keywords easily and can disregard info not
>of interest.á Many times I see something I want to go back and read in
>detail.á Because your newsletter is nicely laid out (as far as line
>spacing, bullets, highlights, and dividers between unrelated info) I
>can easily get to what I am looking for.
>
>I also like the fact, this is not slanted.á I don’t get the slightest
>impression I am being “marketed too.”á My trip in July to Vegas was my
>first.á When I read through the newsletter, I feel as though I never
>left, or like it is just around the corner.á I am going back in
>October for a conference.á With your newsletter, I don’t feel like an
>outsider at all.

Thanks for the kind words! I encourage reader feedback and comments at allvegastv@aol.com whether good or bad, because I’m wasting my time if I’m not meeting the needs of you readers. If I had a dollar for every piece of misinformation I’ve ever overheard Vegas tourists telling each other, I could have retired long ago. This newsletter was created so that won’t happen to you!

You ARE being marketed to, BUT we are trying to be gentle. I don’t like the “hard sell” and I like getting the best deal, which is why I was very careful in teaming up with Hotel Reservations Network for rooms ( http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm ) and TravelNow for rental cars ( http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005 ). Both let you enter the dates of travel and then display all the prices so you can compare and save. In addition, Hotel Reservations Network has extended the $25 rebate (which is on top of their guaranteed low rates) indefinitely, letting you save even more!

Unlike many Vegas publications which depend on direct casino advertising, we get our standard booking commission no matter which hotel or car agency you choose. No favorites, no BS. If something stinks, it stinks and we are going to mention it and save you the trouble!

I do have a small favor to ask of all readers: If you enjoy any part of this newsletter on a regular basis and you aren’t booking with us, go check the rates the way you usually book for your next trip and then give us a try at the links mentioned at the top of every newsletter.

If we aren’t the low rate that time around, by all means book elsewhere. But if we meet or beat your other source, please consider showing your support by giving us a try. People book tens of thousands of room/nights each year through us because of the one click compare, low prices, secure servers, and instant confirmation. There is no cost or obligation and you are completely anonymous until when and if you decide to book. Thanks in advance!

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Rental Cars – Don’t pay top dollar! Enter the dates of your visit and compare prices from virtually every major rental car agency (most US cities). Book the lowest price company or your regular agency. Save the hassle and some money – Car Rental Savings Search. Few regret renting a car. Free shuttles and city bus rides can be slow and smelly. Taxis can cost what a rental car costs. Your vacation time is valuable — make the most out of it!

ONLINE POLL – “How interested are you in riding the monorail when it is completed?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

WEATHERBUG – Las Vegas Trip! When you download and register your free WeatherBug program by October 15, 2000, you receive an automatic entry to win a trip for two to the Las Vegas, Nevada! Share it with YOUR friends and increase your odds of winning. Every “Share the Bug” invitation you send to a friend, gives you another automatic entry into the contest. More info and free download at http://www.weatherbug.com/aws/ (Note: You are entered for the contest upon registration of the program).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
October 4, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 27, 2000

Posted on September 27, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Splash

Curious about a show, restaurant, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

Hello from Portland, OR. Long time readers know that I enjoy escaping the neon and visiting my family a few times a year. I spent the weekend with them on the beautiful Oregon Coast. It is as scenic as you may have heard, and if you want to “steal” a few great beach shots or just enjoy the beach views, head on over to http://www.cannon-beach.net

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

IMPLOSION TIME! – That longtime eyesore The El Rancho (north end of the Strip) is getting imploded at 2:30 AM on Oct. 3. This appears to be the last implosion for a long time, so it might be worth the extra Vegas trip. Like you need an excuse to come see us anyway!

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY – New Years Eve may make the news, but Super Bowl Sunday lights up this town like no other weekend. 200,000-plus crazed football fans flood the gambling mecca here to place every kind of bet available (and there are some strange ones) even if their favorite team never made the playoffs. Full story at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/57749_superbowl.html and you can still grab reasonable rooms ($45 downtown, $55 Strip) for Super Bowl Sunday Las Vegas at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&us_city=LAS

COMDEX – Speaking of getting a room before you have to offer your first-born in exchange, you can still get rooms downtown for as low as $40 a night (El Cortez) or $100 on the Strip (Sahara) but you better beat the rest of the crowd to http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&us_city=LAS

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

Bice (Aladdin Desert Passage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-13-Wed-2000/living/14331297.html
Desert Passage (various – Aladdin) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-20-Wed-2000/living/14372508.html
Top of the World (Stratosphere) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-20-Wed-2000/living/14372339.html
WB 16 (Venetian) – http://lasvegas.citysearch.com/E/V/LASNV/0004/19/83/cs1.html

THE MONORAIL – is coming! $650 million in bonds has been approved, The Venetian has dropped their objections, and it will run from the MGM to The Sahara, helping take people, cars, and buses off of The Strip. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-30-Wed-2000/news/14271967.html and you can let us know if you are looking forward to it or just plain don’t care by giving us your opinion on a Las Vegas monorail in our current poll at http://www.accessvegas.com

MGM THEME PARK – Our promised review of it this summer never materialized because it is becoming a shell of its former self as the MGM uses the property for other purposes. There is now sincere talk of shutting down the park for good because of the value of the land it sits on. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/000907/15/leisure-mgmgrand

VEGAS RADIO / TV ONLINE – A recent post to http://www.egroups.com/group/Vegas asked about online media availability. You can watch local news online: the KTNV 13 feed is at http://tvnews.broadcastamerica.com/stations/index.phtml?sr=41 (scroll down to KTNV Las Vegas, NV) and KLAS 8 feed is at http://www.klastv.com (scroll down for the LIVE Webcast link). Nine radio stations from the area stream online. Links to these stations are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/tvradio.htm

XFL – The Las Vegas Outlaws of the upstart winter/spring football league now have a website at http://www.lasvegasoutlaws.com

RAT RACE – I flew out of McCarran Wednesday afternoon on my way up here to the Pacific Northwest and had to detour to get to the Delta counter. Why? Because the feature film Rat Race starring Whoopi Goldberg and Cuba Gooding Jr. was shooting at the adjacent ticket counter. Full story on the shoot at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-25-Mon-2000/living/14451701.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE – has been so popular that it is extended again to any reservation made in Sept. (for travel
any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

STEVE WYRICK – The noted magician’s much-delayed show has opened at The Sahara. The R-J just reviewed it at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-22-Fri-2000/weekly/14420101.html

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Wednesday – 92/66 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 95/58 Mostly Sunny
Friday – 95/59 Fair
Saturday – 94/59 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 93/57 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Splash

Splash has been occupying the somewhat intimate showroom of the Riviera since 1985, revamping itself every few years to keep with the times. The only problem is that the era it is trying to keep with is 1980-something. Unlike the full-on traditional Las Vegas shows like Jubilee and Folies Bergere, Splash is more of what you would expect in a traveling or Indian casino show making itself out to be a “Vegas Style” show.

It all started in true Vegas fashion, with singers and dancers and topless showgirls in feather headdresses making decent use of the limited state space. We were then introduced to “world champion” skaters Irina Grigorian and Kikhail Panin. In the past, Splash was centered on a huge aquatic tank (hence, the name Splash), but now these fine skaters are much the centerpiece, performing on a very sized ice rink in the middle of the stage. Photo link: http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-07-Fri-2000/photos/lifestyle.jpg

They do the best they can under the circumstances, and put on a number of strong performances throughout the show. The couple performs many of the acrobatic and strength ice stunts you see on televised skating including impressive acrobatic stunts. In one of their later acts, they engage in some eye-opening firestick tossing and juggling, and Irina performs a hula-hoop act that has to been seen to be believed.

If it’s Vegas, you have to have a couple of comedians, and Splash gives us Los Latin Cowboys. They came out pounding on huge drums, and then proceeded to show their skill with bolo balls, which lead to picking on male member of the audience (there with his wife) with gay-tinged jokes about “balls.” Fortunately, once they quit the jokes, they put on quite a display of bolo and tap.

The middle of the show lagged with 4 scenes featuring impersonators: Madonna, Michael Jackson, Cher, and John Travolta. Each featured the impersonator “singing” or dancing to a real video of the actual song shown on big video screens at either side of the stage. While the actual entertainer was surrounded by dancers and a simple set, I found myself spending more time watching the screens, and you can do that at home.

Splash featured other specialty and novelty acts, such as a talented contortionist and a tap-dance duo consisting of one live human and a laser computer-generated showman. Each specialty segment was interesting, but often went on long past where the novelty had worn off. Each performer was talented in their own right, but that didn’t bring the show together in any cohesive way.

The night was concluded with the Thunderdome, a “Globe of Death” featuring four motorcyclist who ride at the same time, spinning around the inside of an eighteen foot steel ball. Pretty impressive, and certainly one of the highlights. It was also one of the few acts where the host wasn’t imploring the audience to step up the applause.

I probably took twice as many notes at Splash as I usually do. Was it that good of a show? No, I was that bored. This could be a solid, riveting show, with the 95 minutes comfortably trimmed to a fast-paced hour-plus (and the price dropped $10) by dropping the lame impersonator scenes. They don’t do justice to the impersonators, and if we are looking for that style of entertainment, we can go see Legends in Concert (Imperial Palace) or American Superstars (Stratosphere).

If you are going to spend real money to see a real 90 minute Las Vegas show, go see Jubilee at Ballys or Folies Bergere at The Tropicana. I’d give Folies a very slight edge, but both are worth your time. My reviews of each are at:

Folies Bergere – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-29.htm
Jubilee – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-26.htm

The exception? If the wife has been bugging you to go to one of those touring “Olympic Skaters On Ice” shows (over your dead body), but is reluctant to go to a somewhat risque Las Vegas show, this is a good compromise. She gets her romantic figure skating and you get your traditional topless Vegas showgirls.

Splash plays every night at 7:30 and 10:30 PM at The Riviera. Tickets are $46.75 and $57.75 including tax. More info and advance ticket purchase is available at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?ID=34&amid=143&cscheme=5

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

I goofed. I left the “Letters to the Editor” file at home. So … look for them next week!

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

ONLINE POLL – “How interested are you in riding the monorail when it is completed?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last weeks poll “Do the recent tragedies involving Las Vegas tourists (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of coming to Las Vegas?”

Yes, I feel Las Vegas is getting unsafe. 17%
Maybe, It makes me think twice. 23%
No, I won’t give it a second thought. 59%

FREE CONTESTS:

VIVA LAS VEGAS – Collectors items! These tickets to the Viva Las Vegas show at the legendary Sands Casino. Enter by emailing us, in order, what five Las Vegas hotels have the most rooms. Winners will be chosen at random from correct entries. E-mail answers to vivacontest@in-vegas.com Contest ends Sept. 30, 2000

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 27, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 20, 2000

Posted on September 20, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Fielding West, Comedy Magic

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

WINE SPECTATOR – magazine has recognized six Las Vegas restaurants in their September awards issue, with Aureole at Mandalay Bay taking one of the magazines coveted Grand Awards. The other winners were Piero Selvaggio Valentino (Venetian), Renoir (Mirage), Charlie Palmer’s (Four Seasons), Dragon Noodle (Monte Carlo), and Delmonico (Venetian). You can read our review of Delmonico at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-06-21.htm and the full story on the awards is available at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-06-Wed-2000/lifestyles/14282560.html

SEXIEST BACHELOR – My sources tell me that Tom from Virginia won the “Sexiest Bachelor Contest.” This sequel to “Who wants to marry a millionaire” was taped last weekend at the MGM for broadcast next month.

FOOD TV – Emeril Lagasse is gone, but the Food TV specials including the entire week of Emeril Live and many other famous chefs which taped last week air on the Food TV cable channel Sept. 25-30. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-13-Wed-2000/living/14317667.html

VEGAS CALENDARS – Many of you enjoy keeping Las Vegas in mind by picking up a Las Vegas calendar or two while in town. Now, you can buy your 2001 Las Vegas Calendar and contribute to a worthwhile cause at the same time. These are the same beautiful, high-quality calendars you see in the gift shops at a comparable price. Order info as well as all 12 photos are available for viewing at http://www.travel2vegas.com/calendars.html and you can read more about the Shade Tree shelter they benefit at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-19-Tue-2000/news/14418294.html

HELLO DODGERS! – The AAA Las Vegas Stars dumped their longtime affiliation with the San Diego Padres, and are now the farm club for the Dodgers. It is a perfect fit for a city that in many ways is a distant suburb of Los Angeles. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-15-Fri-2000/news/14393957.html

SANTA FE STATION – formerly just known as the Santa Fe Hotel Casino, and located in NW Las Vegas, is hiring for all positions. They are accepting applications over the phone 24/7 at (702) 221-6789

$25 HOTEL REBATE – you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

BOXING – Lennox Lewis vs. David Tua meet for the world heavyweight championship on Sat. Nov. 11. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

BOOGIE KNIGHTS – The infamous disco send-up had just moved from Club Rio to C2K when that club closed. In no time flat, they have resurfaced at The Beach Nightclub (2 blocks from the Stardust on Convention Center Dr. every Wednesday night starting at 10 PM.

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Wednesday – 101/69 Sunny
Thursday – 99/64 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 94/59 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 90/56 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 89/55 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Fielding West, Comedy Magic

Fielding West doesn’t have any tigers or lasers. He’s also not charging $100 a ticket! If you are the budget Las Vegas visitor, you can’t go wrong with this downtown evening show. For the price of one $5.95 drink, you get to enjoy a pretty funny blend of comedy and magic.

He doesn’t levitate a car, but he does crush a live bird with his bare hands! (The bird lives.) He doesn’t have a line of dancing girls, but he does have an attractive assistant who ends up in her undies in a “trick gone awry”. He also mixes somewhat close-up magic with a good dose of humor as well as doing a bit of painful looking fire breathing (all with a smile on his face).

The hour-long show still leaves you plenty of time to catch the light shows and other fun of downtown. None of the humor is disgusting, but a little raunchy. Leave the preteens at home. Buy your ticket at the cage, and enter early for best seats. There aren’t many bad seats in that showroom, but they are first come, first served (no maitre d’). Fielding West: Hocus Pocus plays Sun. – Thurs. evenings at 8:00 PM downtown at The Lady Luck.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Judy Grimm wrote:

>It seems, we are unable to get tickets “O” at Bellagio.á I see my sons
>once a year and looked forward to it so much, and it is sold out.
>
>Is there any chance, we could still get tickets some way?
>
>We heard Legends was good; is it?

I’ve heard good things about Legends. I see it in about 3 weeks. “O” is the hardest ticket in town. About the only way to “beat the system” is to book through a ticket agency like BookVegas at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1 I just did a random check for Nov. 15-17, and they still have balcony seats available. Bottom line: use an online service and book entirely as far ahead as possible for “O.”

SPAS AND SALONS – Thanks to all of the readers who weighed in on the various spas and salons they have used while here in Las Vegas. Julia from Frankfurt, Germany wrote about the SPA at Luxor: “It costs around USD $100, but it depends what kind of treatment you are going to choose. Afterwards I went to the Kristina’s Beauty Shop, where I got a manicure and my hair done.” Sam Profio wrote: “I bought my wife a $200 package at Venetian’s spa which is Canyon Ranch (national chain). It included a variety of skin and body treatments and massages, lunch, and general use of the facilities which are considerable. It is a beautiful place with a great reputation nationwide.”

A reader names Lauren wrote: “I have lived here for four years now and the best salon is DIVA. They are located off the strip off Industrial Road but near the Rio. The prices are great compared to strip salons and they have a full spa with massage, waxing, facials, etc. Their number is (702) 736-2011 or website http://www.divastudio.com ” Nichole Garza wrote: “Bellagio without a doubt has the best spa. And decent prices. They treat you like a queen.” Margo from Michigan wrote: “You will get an excellent hairdo and at a cheap rate. It’s strictly a locals salon located in a small strip mall on the corner of Valley View and Charleston. Alana’s Hair Salon 702-870-8470 ask for Alana. Tell her Margo from Michigan sent you.”

HORSE RACING – Linda Sauntmon wrote: “My husband spends 75% of his time on every trip to Vegas playing the horses. In his opinion, Caesar’s Palace has the best sportsbook, followed
by the Hilton.”

Zira from Wayne, NJ wrote:

>Hi Ted:
>
>Just got back from Las Vegas and I want to thank you for leading your
>readers to Hugo’s Cellar in The Four Queens, downtown Vegas.á We do a
>lot of “gourmet” dining and I can say this was one of the best meals
>I’ve had.á The service is outstanding, waiters terrific, the menu
>offers so many good choices for all tastes.á Intermezzo sorbet in
>miniature cones, complimentary chocolate-dipped fruit and, of course,
>a red rose for all the women….they sure have the complete dining
>experience down pat.á Thanks for this super suggestion.

Geno wrote:

>I am visiting Vegas in a couple of weeks, for the first time in 20
>years and really appreciate your newsletter.á I have heard a lot about
>coupon books and other “deals” but don’t know how to find them.á A
>little info in your news letter would be great!á !

Coupon info is at http://www.accessvegas.com/free-coupons.htm

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

ONLINE POLL – Current poll: “Do the recent tragedies involving Las Vegas tourist (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of coming to Las Vegas?” Make your opinion count at http://www.accessvegas.com

FREE CONTESTS:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 20, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 13, 2000

Posted on September 13, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Jerry Lewis

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks
fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at:
allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

IMPLOSION TIME? – Rumor is floating around that the El Rancho (north end of
the strip) is going to be imploded the first week of October. As soon as we
can confirm, we’ll let you know!

NOT THE BEST WEEK – for a few tourists. A shooting in Harrah’s left one
person dead, and a bus overturned about 4 hours north of Las Vegas,
injuring all on board (many seriously). Harrah’s story at
http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/sun/2000/sep/08/510739217.html
and the bus wreck story is at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-09-Sat-2000/news/14350317.html Our
poll for this week asks you how safe you feel coming to Las Vegas in light
of news like this. Poll is at http://www.accessvegas.com

SOUTHWEST AIR – is launching new service from Birmingham, AL to Las Vegas
and for a limited time are offering an introductory fair of $198. You need
to book by Dec. 10 at http://www.southwest.com

RESTAURANTS – Here are some various recent restaurant reviews from various
local media:

Grand Lux (Venetian) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
House of Blues (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D57932
Postrio (Venetian) – http://www.kxnt.com/viewentry.asp?ID=3D42354
Spago (Caesars) –
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-01-Fri-2000/weekly/14261700.html

TOM JONES IMPRESSION – From the quirky file: A man was arrested at (Las
Vegas’) McCarran Airport for smuggling a dozen lizards into the country …
in his underwear. Story at
http://www.apbnews.com/newscenter/breakingnews/2000/09/07/lizards0907_01.html

$25 HOTEL REBATE – has been so popular that it is extended again to any
reservation made in Sept. (for travel
any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network
are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city
they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=3DIVC&LKF=3DIVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

WINNERS! – Charles R. Beck II or Minooka, IL won the Review-Journal special
section about the Aladdin opening.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations
EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all
your needs directly online! Search by dates at
http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=3D5&amid=3D143

MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS – The John Gray best-selling book
as been turned into a musical revue and debuts at The Flamingo on Sept. 17.
It is billed as “A musical revue about love — the good, the bad, and the
funny.” Tickets available at (800) 221-7299 and full story at
http://news.excite.com/news/pr/000906/nv-grays-mars-venus

SKINTIGHT – or a strip club? The Review-Journal reviewed this new show at
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-08-Fri-2000/lifestyles/14316763.html

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at
http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Thursday – 103/71 Sunny
Friday – 103/69 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 104/66 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 104/65 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Jerry Lewis

Rarely do you get a chance to see a living legend — someone who both
transformed comedy and has ties to old Las Vegas. And as someone in my
mid-30’s, my only knowledge of Jerry Lewis has been the telethons and his
goofy comedy movies from long before I was born.

As noted here a few weeks ago, Jerry Lewis recently inked a 20 year deal
with The Orleans hotel, and relatively new off-strip property located about
10 minutes from the Strip on Tropicana. Since he is going to be a regular
headliner (3-4 times a year), I decided it would be great chance to find
out what he is all about. Boy, am I glad I did!

Jerry Lewis took the stage to a standing ovation, and you could tell that
he was in his element. He was essentially his own opening act, spending the
first 20 minutes or so telling some (by his own admittance) corny jokes and
then singing a couple of numbers. Not unlike what you might see on the
telethon.

After an instrumental by his 21 piece orchestra, he came back and really
kicked it into high gear. There was no specific theme, but more of a
nonstop intertwining of entertainment. He’d do some of the impressions he
made famous over the years, live bits from his films, and sing songs.

If you want to know who Jim Carrey borrowed his act from, go see Jerry
Lewis. This man’s physical humor wasn’t a creation for the silver screen,
and he still was just about as quick and agile as ever, including brushing
himself off from a nasty (unplanned) fall and going on like a trooper. He
pulled off everything from catching a spinning, tossed cigarette in his
mouth to his funny faces and antics, all the time doing banter, jokes, and
commentary in his many unique voices.

Those who long for old Las Vegas, or just wonder what it would have been
like would enjoy the time he spends reminiscing about Dean Martin and Frank
Sinatra, which included personal thoughts and stories as well as a few
short video clips. As a tribute to Frank, he sang Sinatra’s infamous
arrangement of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.”

Jerry is 74 years old, was very ill last year with spinal meningitis, was
only one week removed from the grueling MDA telethon, and on his fourth of
four nights. And yet, he did an energetic 2 hours 15 minutes virtually
nonstop, roughly twice the length that most Las Vegas shows now run. And,
you could see his joy of performing and love toward the audience shining
through.

Go see Jerry Lewis. If you are a little older, and you enjoy some of the
classic songs from that era and remember his films, go see Jerry Lewis. If
you want to see how a single performer can command a stage and an audience
in a way few do today, go see Jerry Lewis. If you wonder what is was like
back in the Rat Pack days when Las Vegas was a little more swinging, and
the performers truly looked like they were having a great time onstage, go
see Jerry Lewis.

Go see Jerry Lewis.

Jerry is scheduled to perform 3-4 times a year at The Orleans and we’ll
print future dates as the information is available. Tickets started at
$54.95 plus tax for this last run, and The Orleans runs a free shuttle from
the Barbary Coast on the Strip to the Orleans 365 days a year.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Need a Vegas apartment? How about $100 cash? =20
Go to http://www.viva.com and get both. Just request exactly =20
what you want and get custom rental offers from matching properties. =20
Sign a lease by September 30, 2000 and get $100 cash bonus!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Dean King from MN wrote:

> I receive another famous Las Vegas newsletter
>three times monthly and I must say this newsletter is
>so much better it is really no contest. It is obvious
>that a whole lot of effort is put into this
>publication. The reviews are extremely interesting
>along with the news articles and entertainment
>listings. Not long ago I asked for a restaurant review
>for a place behind the hotel we were staying at and I
>had an answer and excellent review—-within minutes.
>Again congratulations for the excellent
>production——–

Thanks for the kind words. If you are hard-core for Las Vegas and you want
more info than you get here every week, let me suggest the Everything Las
Vegas newsletter. This twice-weekly newsletter is packed (and I mean packed
— about twice as long as this one) with any and all news pertaining to Las
Vegas tourism. Unlike mine, it provides substantial coverage to casinos and
restaurants away from The Strip and Downtown. Subscribe information is at
http://hometown.aol.com/mrvegas98

Michele in Dallas wrote:

>Hi Ted
>
>A hint for your readers.
>
>My friend Maria and I were very pleased when we got a last minute deal
>for a hotel room at the Bellagio. It is beauty. As is typical, we
>were running late. We were on our way to see Mystere at Treasure
>Island. We went downstairs and stood aghast at the long line of
>people waiting to eat at “Cafe Bellagio.” We had no time to waste
>waiting in line.
>
>I decided to ask how long the wait. She mentioned
>that we could go to the counter and eat. They have about 10 or so bar
>stools at the counter (much like a diner) but in the main restaurant.
>It is first come first serve. Prices are the same as eating at a
>table/booth. We were able to eat and leave within 20 minutes. You
>can order breakfast all day long too.

Lynda Loipersbeck wrote:

>Dear Ted, I just have to comment about this Roger Radjeski’s e-mail to
>you concerning his trip to Las Vegas. How it would have been a “waste
>of time” had he not seen the canyon, valley, the dam and the
>wilderness. After 30 trips
>from Canada we have never seen the canyon, valley the dam or the
>wilderness and never want to. We come to Vegas like most people, for
>the excitement, the shows, the food, to gamble, to eat, to SMOKE, and
>to drink. To be alive and throw our hard earned money away and enjoy
>doing it. Vegas is the best city in the world as far as I’m
>concerned and I wouldn’t trade it for all the wilderness in
>Canada…and I AM CANADIAN

Certainly, I think the majority of people come for the gambling. For those
interested in the scenery, browse the tours at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours and
for those who don’t have an interest in gambling, we have non-gaming
activities listed at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm But, I agree
that 99.9999% come here to get a little wild and reckless and maybe hit it
big!

Lorraine Child from New Zealand wrote:

>Your newsletter of 06 September mentioned that Circus Circus is one of
>five worst buffets in Las Vegas. We are visiting in October so could
>you tell us the names of the other 4 please. We do not get to visit

>as often as we would like as we are from New Zealand and need all the
>help we can get to not make a mistake while there. Thanks for the
>newsletter which we enjoy immensely.

While this is subjective, these are the five I’d avoid at all costs: Circus
Circus, Imperial Palace, Holiday Inn Boardwalk, Westward Ho, and Lady Luck.
The best? The Aladdin (hands down), but with Bellagio a close second.
Downtown? Main St. Station, although it doesn’t hold a candle to the other
two.

Stephen Wark of Venice, CA wrote:

>I am going to be in Las Vegas during Halloween this year. Where can I
>find current information about any special events that may be
>occurring for this “holiday?”

The MGM Theme Park usually does a “Haunted Park.” I’ll post info on it when
available. The Tropicana is home to the Fetish & Fantasy Halloween Ball.
More info on that available at http://www.halloweenball.com/main.htm
(Warning: adult content).

>Thanks for the informative newsletter. Its a pleasure to read about
>the going-ons in America most extraordinary and spectacular
>playground. Can you give out a little extra information in one of the
>upcoming newsletters? I think a lot of people bet horse racing when
>they visit Vegas. What sportsbooks handle the “Sport of Kings”, and
>make a point to really place emphasis on the betting of thoroughbreds.

Most of the major hotels have a race book in the sports book area. I have
virtually no knowledge regarding horse racing. Readers, if you bet the
ponies, drop a line to allvegastv@aol.com and let us know which are the
better race books and why!

Barb from Alberta, Canada wrote:

>I have been to Las Vegas on a couple of occasions. I am returning mid
>October with my daughter for her 21st birthday. I would like to make
>this trip as special as I can for her. She would like to see a male
>strip show and I can only find one at the Olympic Garden. Do you have
>any info on what type of place this is and is it safe? In other words
>would you bring your 21 year old daughter there? Also I would like to
>book a spa for us on the day of her birthday (Oct.16). Any info on
>where the deals on spa packages are? Where’s a good place to have our
>hair done (without it costing us our whole weeks budget)? Any other
>info you can give me would be appreciated. Thanks

I’m a guy, but I know women who have checked out the male revue there and
had a good time. Call ahead — I’m not sure if it plays every night or just
weekends. That area of town is marginal, but security around the venue is
fine and they have on-site parking.

I’m also the wrong person to ask about spas and hair … so readers, help
us out! Tell us about your favorite spa and the best hair salon on the
strip at allvegastv@aol.com

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at
allvegastv@aol.com While space doesn’t permit publishing every letter,
we do certainly read them all and they help shape our content. Please
include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is
optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to
you, your website, etc., if accepted.

ONLINE POLL – This week’s poll: “Do the recent tragedies involving Las
Vegas tourist (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of
coming to Las Vegas?” Make your opinion count at http://www.accessvegas.com

FREE CONTESTS:

Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter
every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date
and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in
each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified
email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win.
Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

VIVA LAS VEGAS – As promised, we have two tickets to the long-running Viva
Las Vegas show. However, you can’t use these for admission. These
collectors items are tickets to the show at the legendary Sands Casino. So,
we are going to make you work for them! You need to tell us, in order, what
five Las Vegas hotels have the most rooms. As a tiebreaker, please put down
what you think the total amount of rooms these five hotels has, combined.
If more than two correct entries (including tiebreaker), winners will be
chosen at random from correct entries. E-mail answers to
vivacontest@in-vegas.com Contest ends Sept. 30, 2000 NOTE: I have
documented this information from what I deem to be a reliable source, and
the information I have will be the used to gauge the winning submissions
regardless of whatever conflicting information someone else might present.

TWA – Airlines is giving away two domestic (US) round trip tickets every
day, and they fly to Las Vegas! Enter at
http://twa.phototrust.com/Caption.asp=20

lasvegas.com is giving away 5 dinners worth $200 (for 4 people apiece).
Prize Details:
* 3 dinners at Emeril’s at the MGM Grand
* 2 dinners at Del Frisco on Paradise Road
Enter at http://www.lasvegas.com/events/foodnetwork/contest.html

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 13, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 6, 2000

Posted on September 6, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

CHANGES – In our efforts to improve readability, we have moved our concert and headliner listings off of the newsletter and onto the internet at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm We will still make initial announcements regarding headliners here. Also, we are going to start including the 5 day weather forecast. Nothing to temp those of you from the cooler climates like the visions of warm sun and palm trees! Or right now, those of you wishing to escape the record heat wave in Texas and other parts of the South.

BELLAGIO ART – “Masterworks from The Phillips Collection” has put 26 major paintings on loan to the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. Featured are works by Picasso, Monet, van Gogh and many others. Cost is $12 ($10 for NV residents) and the gallery is open daily from 10 AM – 10 PM. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-01-Fri-2000/weekly/14261700.html

PARIS LAS VEGAS – is celebrating their first year anniversary with “Festival De La France” (French Street Festival) featuring strolling mimes, jugglers, stilt walkers, French Can Can dancers, acrobats, and French-styled Dixieland jazz. The festival will be held in the outdoor area between Paris and Bally’s Sept. 8 – 10.

HOT DOGS – Reader Joe Copeland spent some time researching where to find the best hot dogs in Las Vegas. If you are hooked on hot dogs, this is a must read at http://www.accessvegas.com/vegas-hot-dogs.htm

AIRFARES – How about some cheap airfare — we can’t help you with rooms and rental cars if you don’t get here first! Please remember that these fares are limited time sales and are subject to restrictions.

Frontier Airlines: Off-peak introductory prices (for Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday) for flights between Washington, DC (Reagan) and Las Vegas ($159). Flights begin September 7 and stop in Denver. Details at http://www.frontierairlines.com

Legend Airlines: today announced that effective immediately it is offering for five days only special fares for all its destinations from Dallas Love Field, including Las Vegas: Dallas Love Field to Las Vegas – $119.00
Customers can earn 1,000 bonus miles by booking on-line at http://www.legendairlines.com

US Air: to Las Vegas from Albany, Boston, Charleston, Dayton, Jacksonville, Louisville, New York, Pittsburgh, Raleigh/Durham, Syracuse and West Palm Beach for just $99 each way. For more information, go to http://www.usairways.com

Delta: Special fares this week to Las Vegas from Tampa, DFW, and Boston. Info at http://www.delta-air.com/servlet/ACRedirect?rdID=1833&subID=2318405970

SUNCOAST CASINO PREVIEW – On Thursday, Sept. 14, Century Cinemas is hosting a
fund-raiser for The Shade Tree, the Las Vegas area’s only shelter dedicated to
serving women and children in crisis. For $25, you will be treated
to the showing of a soon-to-be-released film directed by Sally Field, a
pre-film cocktail hour, food sampling from Suncoast’s many restaurants,
and free munchies to enjoy during the movie. If you will be in Las Vegas
on Sept. 14 and would like to attend this casual-dress event, just
contact David Berman via e-mail to dberman@concentric.net The Suncoast is a beautiful, new “locals” casino located in NW Las Vegas.

1. Print out: http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm
2. Book a room online at
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee
to boot!

WINNERS! – Jon and Lynn Coe of Brocton, NY and Bill Osbourne of Lindenhurst, IL were the winners of the Aladdin Implosion video!

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

CONCERTS and HEADLINERS – Our listing is available online anytime at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 5 day forecast is courtesy of Excite.Com:

Wednesday – 91/71 Very windy. More clouds than sun.
Thursday – 94/70 Warm. More clouds than sun.
Friday – 99/70 Sunny
Saturday – 99/68 Sunny
Sunday – 98/61 Mostly Sunny

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

race-rock-01.jpg (35087 bytes) If you are a fan of motor sports, you have a “home away from home” in Las Vegas. Race Rock is 30,000 sq. ft. of every kind of racing machine, photos, outfits, and memorabilia there is. NASCAR, Indy Car, drag racing, motorcycle racing — you name it, they have it! NASCAR cars along the walls, jet boats hanging from the ceiling, and drag cars standing upright are just a few of the thousands of artifact that will surround you as you dine while various racing videos play on TV monitors throughout the building.

Usually, theme restaurants are high on flash, high on prices, and low on food quality and service. If you are looking for “Vegas Deals” like $5.99 prime rib, keep walking because this isn’t a cut-rate joint. You can view the menu and prices online at http://www.racerock.com/racerock/themenu.html But, the service and presentation as well as the food quality justified prices that would be considered normal in any other part of the country.

I started with the fresh garden salad ($4.95), which was my only complaint. The greens weren’t shredded very well (I was cutting the salad with a knife) and the tomatoes and carrots looked like they were added as an afterthought. Fresh, but not a salad worthy of the a la carte price.

The main course, however, did help make up for it. “The King” (billed as racing legend and part-owner “King” Richard Petty’s favorite) was a healthy sized char-grilled sirloin steak smothered in mushroom sauce and sweet Burgundy onions. It came with “crashed” (mashed) garlic potatoes and fresh veggies. Forget needing a salad — this big plate was full of good tasting food, justifying the $17.95 (the most expensive thing on the menu).

race-rock-02.jpg (21588 bytes) For those just interested in a little “nitro,” guest are welcomed to enjoy the surroundings at either of two bars. Don’t be shy about heading upstairs where the bar area features two-story windows and a variety of racing arcade games. Specialty drinks are available in souvenir containers, and I mean containers. Racing themed containers like fuel cans!

The verdict? Not a Vegas “must-see,” but certainly a fun place to eat downtown for the general public. However, if you are into motorized racing of any kind, you’ll love the place. In fact, they probably have more NASCAR related displays alone than the actual NASCAR Cafe (reviewed https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-15.htm ) at The Sahara does.

Race Rock is located at the eastern end of the Fremont St. Experience downtown. Hours are 11 AM – 11 PM Sun. – Thurs. and until midnight on weekends. Phone: (702) 382-RACE Website: http://www.racerock.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jim Scheetz of Bethlehem, PA wrote:

>Dear sirs: I am almost positive i read an article that there is going
>to be some kind of event going on while we are visiting Las
>Vegas(9/12/00–9/19/00) involving the food TV network.á Emeril Lagasse
>is supposed to be there and I remember the cost was $30.00.á the
>problem is that i don’t remember where it was and on what dates.á Also
>can we get tickets on line from some web site.

Here are the details from 2 newsletters ago:

FOOD TV – is having the “Food Event of the Year.” Live cooking demos by Food Network personalities, samples of a wide variety of dishes from Las Vegas’ hottest restaurants, and a chance to be part of an Emeril TV special that will air Sept. 30 are just a few of the festivities taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Sept. 17. Tickets are $30 and available at (800) 949-CHEF

Jean Haka of Waukesha WI wrote:

>Hi Ted!
>
>Hey–what’s up????á Do travelers think that just because they’re in a
>major tourist vacation spot that they’re never going to get poor
>service?????á I have received poor service all over the
>world–including many parts of Florida (couldn’t even hardly speak
>English.á .á .á .) to Chicago and foreign countries, too!!!á If you
>enter a restaurant and have to wait and wait for your server to
>acknowledge you–just get up and leave!!!á The rest of the meal
>probably isn’t going to be much better.á If you walk into any place
>and don’t like the vibes–leave!!!á (This goes for any casino table
>game, too!)

>When we visit Las Vegas we often return to the same restaurants over and
>over again–because we are familiar with their service and enjoy their
>food.á ..á .if you aren’t sure where these are, search the web, there
>are many sites that rate the food and service in Las Vegas and it can
>give you a handle on where to go once you get there!!!á If nothing
>else, eat at your hotel.á If you have problems, write a factual letter
>when you get home.á They’ll usually compensate you in some manner.

Good advice. DineSite at http://dinesite.com/home/?v=159 is where I go to research restaurants when traveling.

Andrew Tarascio wrote:

>Just returned from Vegas and I felt I had to warn your readers to stay
>away from the buffet at Circus Circus.á The meat was either dry or
>tough.á Because of this, I had to eat mostly salad and a few of their
>desserts (which also were a disappointment).

We agree. Circus Circus buffet is consistently one of the 5 worst buffets in town. It may be on par with many of the chain buffets around the nation, but you are in Las Vegas. Expect more!

Zira Schiffer of NJ wrote:

>We are arriving in Vegas on Labor Day and had booked tickets for the
>Venetian show, Nebulae.á The box office just called to let us know the
>show is canceled for technical reasons.á Have you heard that the
>closing is more than technical?á I know it didn’t get the best of
>ratings from the “critics”.á Glad to see the temperature is below 100
>for the upcoming week.

Technically speaking, ticket sales were lousy. It is a moot point as the entire C2K showroom is temporarily closed because of legal wrangling. That includes the nightclub and Melinda Magic Show. My guess is that they will get it open reasonably soon. Too much lost revenue every day it stays closed.

Lynette from WI wrote:

>Hi Ted Newkirk~ We are going to be in Las Vegas (Yeh!!) Dec 1~4th.á We
>planned our trip around a football game.á We are hoping to be able to
>place a bet (or 2) and then watch the game in their sportsbook area.
>We don’t know what hotel/casino we will be at yet but preferably a big
>main one, and it won’t be a Monday night game, so my question is: do
>you think they will turn on our game if we ask them to????á We sure
>hope so, that is what we are really looking forward to.á If you have
>any suggestions for the “nicer” sportsbook casinos, the ones that will
>turn the channel, would you please let me know??á I really enjoy
>getting your newsletter, thank you.

Every major sportsbook has enough TV’s to show just about every halfway important game on at any given time. If your game is not the most important (general interest) game at the moment, you might have to watch it without sound (which is reserved for the biggest game). You didn’t mention college or pro, but the Imperial Palace shows every single pro football game on Sundays in their showroom.

Some of the nicer sportsbooks include Bellagio and Las Vegas Hilton. If you are interested in a lesser known college game, it never hurts to ask if they will show it. Sometimes they have way more TV’s than they need tuned to one game, but it depends on how busy they are and their satellite limitations.

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Please include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is optional). Also, guest article submissions are welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc., if accepted.

ONLINE POLL – From the last two weeks: “Who and when do you tip on a big slot win?”

Are you nuts? They don’t rebate my money when I lose. 18%
I’ll give the change girl a small tip if she was helpful. 20%
I tip the change person and slot person a modest amount. 38%
Party time! I hand out the cash to everyone including the cocktail waitress. 22%

I’m pulling a blank on new poll questions. If you have any bright ideas, send them to allvegastv@aol.com

FREE CONTESTS:

The Magic Returns – We have one copy of this recent special section from the Review-Journal highlighting the new Aladdin Hotel and Casino. Enter at (contest closed)

**WIN A TRIP TO ORLANDO** Share your pictures with your friends & family. Every time you upload a picture at Zing between now and September 11, 2000 you’ll be entered to win a trip to Orlando. Store & share your pictures for a chance to win today! http://by.advertising.com/1/c/22838/6290///?orig=NEWS

Viva Las Vegas – Sands Hotel collector tickets will be given away next week!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Have a request for a review? Boggled when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where all of the “articles” are really paid ads, we give you the honest scoop. If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us at http://www.accessvegas.com You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 6, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 30, 2000

Posted on August 30, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HARRAH’S – has done it right with their Carnival Court! This outdoor bar and grill at the south end of the property is a fantastic place to relax with friends and enjoy some live music seven days a week. They have moved Cook E. Jarr down there from the Improv room upstairs (a great move, and one we suggested back in May at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-05-17.htm ). You can catch his show for free at midnight on Friday and Saturday nights, and more info on Cook E. Jarr is at http://www.accessvegas.com/jarr Next suggestion for one of the resorts: How about a permanent open-air club around a water setting like you find in many other beach and resort spots?

END OF THE INN – Gone. Done. History. The doors of the Desert Inn are locked shut, and the next wave of casino building planned will involve the north end of the Strip, with the Frontier and Desert Inn both slated for destruction and new resort construction at dates not yet announced. Hotel closing story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-29-Tue-2000/news/14261089.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/news/14230478.html

TOP 5! – Frommer’s just published their Top 10 Travel list at http://www.frommers.com/features/articles/0008_2a.html Of note: The Orleans Hotel here in Las Vegas was rated America’s 3’rd best budget hotel, Laughlin, NV was rated the 5’th cheapest city for vacation, and our partners Hotel Reservations Network were ranked the 4’th best hotel discounter. Specific info on each:

Orleans Hotel – http://www.accessvegas.com/hotels/orleans-hotel-las-vegas-hotel-reservations.htm
Laughlin – http://www.accessvegas.com/laughlin-nevada-hotels-nv.htm
Hotel Reservations Network – http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

SUMMER IS OVER! – While that may not be the best news in much of the world, we are looking forward to beautiful fall days with shirtsleeve weather in the daytime and cool evenings (not to mention seeing our electric bills drop). If your good weather is starting to wane, no time like the present to come enjoy ours! Current Las Vegas forecast is at http://www.weather.com/weather/us/zips/89121.html

RESTAURANTS – A host of Las Vegas restaurant reviews have hit the press the past couple of weeks:

All American Bar & Grill (at the Rio) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/07_27_00/dining_taste.html
Grand Lux Cafe – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-25-Fri-2000/weekly/14218120.html
Orleans Buffet – http://www.e-vegas.net/display/article.asp?article=725
The Tillerman (Paradise Rd.) – http://www.scopemag.com/departments/08_17_00/dining_taste.html

COINLESS SLOTS – In a recent poll and feedback, most of you came out overwhelmingly against coinless slots. The soon-to-open The Suncoast Hotel & Casino in NW Las Vegas is opening soon and most of their slots will be coinless. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/000821/18/leisure-slots While they are counting on it being a hit with locals, industry insiders conjecture (as our poll noted) that tourist wouldn’t warm up to them. For those wondering, we generally don’t cover news involving outlying casinos because the percentage of tourists who make their way away from the Strip or downtown are minute.

$5 FREE GAS – If you drive to town, the 76 station next to Monte Carlo has a coupon for $5 free gas with a $10 purchase. Print the coupon out at http://www.strip76.com/coupon.htm

KARAOKE – The NASCAR Cafe in The Sahara has joined perennial favorite Ellis Island Casino (on Koval, just behind Bally’s) as a hot spot for Karaoke in Las Vegas. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-15-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14151067.html

BEHIND THE SCENES – The Review-Journal did a rare sneak-peak at all that goes into making Mystere a constant sellout at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-22-Tue-2000/lifestyles/14079348.html

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143

THE SCORPIONS – The long-surviving heavy metal band is touring playing symphony shows in selected cities including Las Vegas (see Aladdin listing below). Full story at http://www.mtv.com/sendme.tin?page=/news/headlines/000824/story6.html

SPARKS IN THE PARK – at Desert Breeze Park (Spring Mountain and Durango, far west side of town) features Jon Secada and Michael McDonald as well as food and fireworks this Sat. Sept. 2 from 3-9 PM. Tickets are $10 adult, $5 children and can be purchased at the gate.

Aladdin – Peabo Bryson, Sept. 4-9, The Guess Who on Sept. 9, Chick Corea Sept. 11-16, Iron Maiden, Queensryche, and Halford on Sept. 17, Scorpians w/ Nevada Festival Symphony Orchestra on Sept. 23, Pat Metheny Sept. 25-30, David Sanborn Joe Sample, Counting Crows Oct. 2, Jo Dee Messina on Oct. 6, Richard Bona and Brian Blade Oct. 2-7, Greg Allman Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 13-15, Dr. John Oct. 16-21, Roberta Flack Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 26-28, Afro Cuban All-Stars Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Chuck Mangione Dec. 4-9. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – The Cult on Sept. 2, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, John Haitt on Sept. 9, Don Henley Oct. 10, 311 Oct. 11, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – Howie Mandel Sept. 1-3, Reba McEntire Sept. 14-17, Kenny Rogers Sept. 22-23, Engelbert Humperdinck Sept. 26 – October 1, Face To Face Sept. 30, Steven Wright Oct. 7-8, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman in their “Together Again” tour Oct. 19-21 (return engagement), Sinbad Nov. 2-4, Jeff Foxworthy Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, and Brooks & Dunn Dec. 4-6. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

Mandalay Bay – Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Fishbone on Sept. 9, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Hank Williams III on Sept. 21, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Alice Cooper on Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, Kenny G on Sept. 30, Tonic on Oct. 6, Tiger Jam III (a fundraiser concert for the Tiger Woods Foundation) features Christina Aguilara, Leann Rimes, and Seal on Oct. 7, Peter Frampton Oct. 13, and Moe on Oct. 15. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Rita Rudner now – Sept. 4, Tom Jones Aug. 10-23, Sting on Aug. 19, David Copperfield Aug. 24-30, Tony winning show Cabaret Aug. 30 – Sept. 3, Rodney Dangerfield Aug. 31- Sept. 6, Carrot Top Sept. 7 – 13, Shaolin Monks on Sept. 20-28, Jimmy Buffet on Sept. 29, Frozen Fury 4 pits the L.A. Kings against the Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, U.S. Open of Supercross Oct. 14-15, Pearl Jam on Oct. 22, and Tina Turner with Joe Cocker Nov. 18. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://hotels.nevada.nu/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Riviera – Tommy Chong & Bobcat Goldthwait Sept. 1, 2, and 3, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, Jerry Lewis Sept. 7-10, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Are You Ready For Some Football?

Legalized Las Vegas sports betting and America’s love of our football makes the fall one of the most exciting times of year here and this year won’t be any different. Monday Night Football is a Las Vegas tradition. From the little corner bars to the big casino sportsbooks, tens of thousands gather to put a few bucks on a team they might not even care about, drink beer, and whoop and holler for their team.

While virtually every casino and bar has some kind of Monday Night Football promotion, here are some notable ones. All are free unless noted, and remember that Monday Night Football starts at 6 PM on the west coast, so get there early to get a good seat and your share of the freebies:

BARLEY’S – This one is away from the tourism areas, but in one of the nicer parts of town and too good a party to ignore: 8′ TV screens, $1.00 12 oz. microbrews, $1.00 pizza, hot dogs, and nachos, and giveaways during every commercial breaks. Barley’s is at 4500 E. Sunset Rd — about a 15-20 minute drive from the Strip.

THE BEACH – Over 40 TV’s including 3 big screens in their 24 hour sportsbar. No cover and a complimentary all-you-can-eat buffet features hamburgers, hot dogs, wings, potato/pasta salads, etc. Beer and shot specials are served by their bikini beauties. Also, prizes and giveaways.

CIRCUS CIRCUS – Their Skyrise Sports Lounge shows the game on a 20′ x 15′ movie screen. The Miller Girls are present, and $3.95 Miller beer specials (that’s a special?!?!?) include a collectible 16 oz. team logo pilsner glass.

FIESTA – holds the party in Roxy’s and features all-u-can-eat pizza, first beer is free, cash prizes, and more. 12′ big screen and over 400 balcony seats. Admission is $6.95 and you must be 21.

HOLY COW – on the Strip across from The Sahara features special food, drink, and raffle prizes during each game as well as a cash bonus on 4-of-a-kind video poker hands during the game (rules are at the cage — I imagine you must be playing the machine max cards, no wild cards).

MAIN ST. STATION – Drawings from cash and prizes each quarter, parlay cards, and food and drink specials. Party held in the brewpub.

PLAZA – The Girls of Glitter Gulch host this party. A $10 betting ticket gets you a free Vienna hot dog, you can watch the game on a giant 9′ x 12′ screen, and they have drawings for prizes and $550 cash.

RIO – Club Rio puts the game on their huge ten foot screens that line the wall and features beer, food, cheerleaders, and prizes. They say you can “win awesome prizes, play video games, smoke fine cigars, and enjoy great food and drink.”

VACATION VILLAGE – Free giveaways every quarter, free parlay card ($200 possible win), free stadium food (peanuts, popcorn, cracker jacks), 50 cent Bud drafts, 50 cent hot dogs, half-time armchair quarterback contest, and ladies drink free in Kookoo’s Bar from 5-10 PM.

Because the majority of Las Vegans are people who relocated from other parts of the country, and we lack our own NFL team, many local bars have “adopted” specific NFL teams (often because the bar owners or management are from that part of the country). These bars not only pledge to show every single game of their specific team, but have food and drink specials as well as giveaways during each game.

The Review Journal just published their yearly detailed list of these bars at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-27-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14123757.html You are almost guaranteed a crowd of people from the “home town” for each game.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Marty & Becky Papke wrote:

>We appreciate your newsletter.á I would like to ask a question to the
>readers and yourself.á We are planning a trip to Las Vegas Dec.á 3
>thru the 8’th which is the National Rodeo Finals week and we would like
>to know what entertainers – will be performing.á If there is a link
>that shows this information, please send the information to us.á We
>also would like to know the details of Sam’s Town construction I had
>heard they are having a grand opening at end of November and will be
>having special entertainers celebrating.á Can you also let us know
>this information.á Thanks for the help!á Really appreciate your
>newsletter.

Continue to both follow our newsletter as well as checking the Events page at http://www.accessvegas.com/events.htm as the time gets closer. I usually don’t report on off-strip properties, but do make an exception for Sam’s Town and NFR because of Sam’s Town’s historically country theme. The renovations are moving along nicely and we will have a report on their plans for NFR as soon as they become known.

Roger Radjeski of Seminole, Florida wrote:

>Only 15 minutes west of Vegas is Red Rock Canyon.á For a mere $5.00
>you can drive your car on the trail and stop and explore the
>wilderness, mountains and canyons.á One hour away is Hoover Dam, and
>two and a half hours away is Death Valley.á What a waste our trip
>would have been had we not gone these places.á Oh yes we did visit the
>”old Strip” for a $4.99 prime rib and a walk in the covered mall.á The
>thing that bothered me the most was the smoking.á There are “NO NON
>SMOKING AREAS!”á What a shame to be polluted by Second Hand Smoke!
>Glad that the tip we left for the girl that cleaned our room for three
>days was more than we spent in all gambling, $5.oo.á The pan handlers
>were a real bother, luckily none seemed to have any identification on
>them that they were willing to show me.á They didn’t get anything from
>me but a “NO!”á Oh yes, we also went to the mountains, a ski area is
>only 2 hours north.á Many people visit Vegas, and miss the Real
>Sights!

With so much to do on the Strip and downtown, we tend not to spend a lot of time covering other activities this area offers because most people aren’t interested in exploring. However, we are finishing a Hoover Dam report, and people that are on their 4’th or 5’th Las Vegas visits often do rent a car to go explore some of the natural and man made wonders. We do maintain a list of Non-Gambling Attractions at http://www.accessvegas.com/activities-entertainment-kids.htm

With Las Vegas, you take the good with the bad. Those from areas where every little aspect of life is regulated might find it bothersome that we don’t have tighter smoking laws and the like. But, Las Vegas is very much determined by supply and demand: if smoke bothers you (I am a nonsmoker but have learned to live with the air in some of the casinos), patronize those properties you feel have the cleanest air.

David N. of Panama City, FL wrote:

>Ted: I don’t know about balconies on the Strip, but for a panoramic
>view, I don’t think anything could top the one my wife and I had on
>our first visit: high up the Plaza tower, facing south toward the
>Stratosphere and Strip.á Fantastic!

Karolina from Chicago, IL wrote:

>I have to say that I really enjoy reading the Review and I’m always
>looking forward to it.á I will be in Vegas Sept.á 23-27 and would
>love to see a concert, but sadly nothing that would interest me is
>going on (I’m a 24 year old female who doesn’t like rap or country.)
>As for one of the letters from the readers, I have to say that Denny’s
>(next to MGM) really sucks.á The service is horrible, I also had to
>get my own refills and when I asked them to heat up the syrup for my
>pancakes, they said that they cannot do that!á Finally after I got to
>talk to a manager, he took care of it but commented that they aren’t
>supposed to be doing that…á What’s up with that?á Otherwise my
>memories are pleasant and just wanted to say “hello” to all the
>readers!

I too appreciate the comfort of eating at places we are familiar with. On my recent FL trip, I was tempted to do the “tried and true” but instead dined at restaurants that were unique to the area and I challenge visitors to Las Vegas to do the same. While this is a broad generalization, workers at the chain franchises are usually at the lowest end of the scale.

The casinos tend to pay better, provide better benefits, etc., and you are more likely to get better food and service in hotel restaurants, even if it’s just the coffee shop. (The food courts generally don’t count — they are franchised out.) Plus, keep your eyes open — many hotels have some pretty good food specials advertised on their reader boards outside and signs throughout the property!

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

ONLINE POLL – “Who and when do you tip on a big slot win?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

DROOG.COM – is sending one person plus three friends to push the detonator on an actual implosion here in Las Vegas (rumors are still circulating which building is getting imploded, but we will let you know the minute we know). Go to http://www.droog.com and click on the DETONATE link to enter.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 23, 2000

Posted on August 23, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Aladdin Grand Opening

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:FOOD TV – is having the “Food Event of the Year.” Live cooking demos by Food Network personalities, samples of a wide variety of dishes from Las Vegas’ hottest restaurants, and a chance to be part of an Emeril TV special that will air Sept. 30 are just a few of the festivities taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Sept. 17. Tickets are $30 and available at (800) 949-CHEFREAGAN NATIONAL – America West and National Airlines are both running special introductory fares in conjunction with their new service from Reagan National airport to Las Vegas. Info on these fares at:

America West – http://news.excite.com/news/pr/000814/az-awa-wash-natl-svc
National Airlines – http://www.frommers.com/newsletters/08-14-00/article2.html

ELVIS – RCA has now released the three-CD Elvis Presley box set “That’s The Way It Is,” which includes a significant amount of material recorded in Las Vegas. Review is at http://www.spokane.net/news-story-body.asp?Date=081600&ID=s838912&cat= and it is available from Amazon at discount:

CD Long Box – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004TZCI/invegascom
CD Box Set – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004TZCK/invegascom

HOOVER DAM – Mike Kelly of the Toledo Blade wrote a very humorous article about his bus tour to see the “Star’s Homes” and Hoover Dam at http://www.toledoblade.com/editorial/kelly/0h15kell.htm It’s a read that most Vegas visitors will appreciate.

LANCE BURTON – The Evansville Courier & Press did a nice story on the now infamous Las Vegas magician at http://www.courierpress.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?200008/14+vegas081400_news.html+20000814 More info on his is available at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?ID=21&amid=143&cscheme=5

MY VACATION – Where do you vacation when you live in Las Vegas? I had an enjoyable week in Destin/Ft. Walton, FL enjoying the white sands of the Gulf of Mexico. This area truly is a best kept secret. A big thumbs-up to the Ramada Resort down there ( http://www.ramadafwb.com ) for their great service and beautiful setting. My condolences to those who regularly have to fly Delta through Atlanta. What a joke, especially the Delta Connection. They own Atlanta and they don’t care. AirTran — please start serving Las Vegas so I can enjoy more of the Southeast affordably!

$25 HOTEL REBATE – Extended to any reservation made in August (for travel any time) — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Go to http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm and print out that page
2. Book a room online at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC by August 31
3. Send in for your rebate when you get home.

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee to boot!

WINNERS! – Keith B. Stolz of Houston, TX, Matt Tornes of Marietta, OH, Bruce Olsen of Port Orchard, WA and Mark Carrothers of New Philadelphia, OH were the winners of Doc’s 2000 Complete Season Sports Journal.

Quick Concert and Show Notes:See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143áJERRY LEWIS – has just signed a 20 year deal to play The Orleans hotel (about 7 minutes west of the Strip on Tropicana). There is conjecture whether this is for real, or somewhat of a publicity stunt given the mediocre crowd count at his last run, and the scheduling of his next run during a slower week. But, if this does turn into a permanent run, we’ll review it.

Aladdin – The Duke Ellington Orchestra under the direction of Paul Mercer Ellington Aug. 27, Cassandra Wilson, Aug. 28 -Sept. 2, Peabo Bryson, Sept. 4-9, The Guess Who on Sept. 9, Chick Corea Sept. 11-16, Scorpians w/ Nevada Festival Symphony Orchestra on Sept. 23, Pat Metheny Sept. 25-30, David Sanborn Joe Sample, Richard Bona and Brian Blade Oct. 2-7, Greg Allman Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 13-15, Dr. John Oct. 16-21, Roberta Flack Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 26-28, Afro Cuban All-Stars Oct. 30-Nov. 4, Chuck Mangione Dec. 4-9. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – Mary J. Blige on Aug. 26, The Cult on Sept. 2, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, John Haitt on Sept. 9, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Mandalay Bay – Duran Duran Aug. 25-26, Isaac Hayes Aug. 25-26, Jethro Tull Aug. 27, Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, Kenny G on Sept. 30, and Tonic on Oct. 6. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

Riviera – Tommy Chong & Bobcat Goldthwait Sept. 1,2, and 3, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – Smothers Brothers Aug. 25-27, The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Up In Smoke tour featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, and Eminem on Aug. 11, Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Aladdin Grand Opening

I’m running a little late, but so was the opening of the Aladdin! Thursday night came and went, with the casino not yet passing fire inspection. Upwards of 20,000 people were disappointed as the fireworks were postponed and only the Desert Passage shopping area was open to the public for a few hours. Guests were moved to other hotels, but to their credit, the Aladdin only rented out a few hundred rooms the first night, and increased the number of available rooms by a few hundred each evening as they ramp up.

By midmorning on Friday, the casino was open and the last of the current casino building boom on the Strip was officially over. The Aladdin clocked in at around $1.4 billion with 2600 rooms and the 500,000 sq. ft. Desert Passage — the Strip is now lined with casinos from Mandalay Bay to Treasure Island.

The main gaming area has an incredibly high ceiling, and for once a gaming property put it to good use. Casinos like New York, New York and Paris used the height to build facades, but gave little opportunity to offer a balcony perspective of the gaming area to guests. Aladdin put their lounge up a level on a mezzanine, giving you a nice reprieve from the gaming area, and a wonderful open feeling as well.

In addition, the third level rings much of the casino. This level features a number of high end restaurants and a somewhat intimite bar featuring a fantastic view of the gaming floor. It also features The London Club, a seperate posh high-end casino. A weekday visit showed table game minimums at The London Club starting at $25. A few $1 slot and video poker machines are available, but most are $5 and up. If those limits are your style, treat yourself to a little gaming up here. It truly is a cut above.

Much thought was put into challenging hotel/casino norms to give the guests a better experience. The hotel has an extra bank of elevators, so that you will never be more than 7 doors away from an elevator. And (gasp!) you don’t have to trek through the casino to get from check-in (which is one floor below the casino) to your rooms. Just walk over to the bank of elevators and you can zoom up to your floor.

Other unusual things to pamper guests: The Aladdin has installed high speed internet access in every room, and by this fall every room will be outfitted with it’s own computer, connected to their high speed lines letting you surf the web and check email. If you order room service, get ready to get it quick. They have outfitted two elevators as moving kitchens, with continental breakfast items as well as beverages.

The Review-Journal has done a nice run-down of the 19 new restaurants at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14178587.html We enjoyed the buffet yesterday evening. Lines were short at 6 PM. The atmosphere is standard (my personal favorites in that category are Bellagio and Main St. Station buffets), but the $18.95 dinner was top-notch with unusual offerings like Middle Eastern food, a fantastic compliment of fresh seafood, as well as the standard cuisine featured at most “food station” buffets.

Desert Passage is huge! It has two legs running along both sides of the hotel and circles the entire Performing Arts Center as well. You can enter the Passage directly from the street, bypassing the casino. Bring your wallet: this high-end mall features 130 upscale and specialty stores and boutiques from all over the world. They have brought in performers and entertainers from around the globe to perform free for the public in the Passage. Full story on that at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14139735.html

Two disappointments: The manufactured rainstorm isn’t really much. It takes place every 20 minutes in the area of the mall where wooden planks surround a small body of water. “Lightning” flashes and a much too loud and tinny sounding thunder (put in a subwoofer and turn up the rumble) plays while rain pours down from the ceiling into the water. For best effect, view it from one end or the other so you can really see the sheets of rain. Also, valet parking was a beef with me: if you turn into the parking garage and follow the valet signs, you end up (without warning) in the valet for Desert Passage, NOT for the hotel. The difference? They want $2 (not including gratuity) to park there. Enter the main hotel entrance from Harmon to find the real valet parking.

Those who love Jazz or just good food will applaud the addition of a Blue Note jazz club to Las Vegas at The Aladdin. We have not had a chance to check it out, but two great stories are at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-18-Fri-2000/weekly/14172753.html and http://www.lvcitylife.com/Music/stories/00081701m.html

I’ve placed 4 pages of photos online at http://www.accessvegas.com/aladdin These aren’t PR photos, but my “man on the street” photos taken yesterday throughout the property. Please excuse the quality of some of the indoor shots as they suffered from lack of light. If you own a digital camera that performs well in low light (beyond the flash), fill me in at allvegastv@aol.com as I’m looking around and would love some suggestions!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

CORRECTION: The address of our Shark Reef review with photos last issue was an error. That review is archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-12.htm

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Michelle D. from Texas wrote:

>Dear Ted:
>
>We recently returned from a trip to Vegas.á We had a great time with
>friends, but I must say the four of us that traveled together were
>shocked at the service we received virtually everywhere.
>
>Our first difficulty was at the Stratosphere.á The woman at the
>entrance insinuated that we would not want to dine in The Top of the
>World restaurant because of the prices.á The woman running the
>elevator was rude and sarcastic.á Our waitress at the restaurant was
>the nicest person in the whole place (her name was Linda).á We won t
>be going back there anytime soon.
>
>The next was at the Denny s on The Strip next to the MGM.
>Unbelievable!á They were not using the entire restaurant, so they were
>evidently understaffed.á However, that is no excuse for rudeness and
>lack of service.á A person in our party had to go FIND the waitress
>for drink refills.á She did not bring them.á Also, when we got our
>food (one hour after we were seated) it was cold.á Some of the food
>had to be reheated to be edible.á When the waitress did finally come
>to check on us and she asked if everything was OK.á We told her no.
>Her response?á Did we need more napkins?á As I saidáá unbelievable!
>
>Lastly, at our hotel, (NY, NY) we ate at America our last morning
>there.á Our waitress immediately took the orders for coffee, but the
>two of us not drinking coffee were put off.á She came back to take our
>food order and we told her we d like to order the rest of our drinks
>first.á She had a very bad attitude the rest of the meal.
>
>We visited Vegas this same time last year and did not encounter these
>problems.á The impression we got from most of the service persons we
>encountered was that they resent tourists.á We decided if that was the
>case, these people are living in the wrong town.á I don t think Vegas
>would be the great place it is, and becoming, without tourists.
>
>I love reading the AccessVegas newsletter and look forward to it every
>week.á You gave me a lot of good information for our trip.á Thanks and
>keep up the great work!

Thanks for the kind words regarding the newsletter! Interesting you should mention this, as service in Las Vegas was the topic during a Sunday brunch I had with good friends last week, as well as some of the Las Vegas message boards. I regret to say that workers in this town are making so much money, and there is such a pull on the labor market, that good help is hard to find and much of the help that exists doesn’t care.

If you have a negative experience here, I strongly suggest you do two things:

1. Write the hotel immediately when you get home. Detail as specific as possible the problems. Complaint letters have netted me comps for future use. They want you back.

2. DON’T TIP IF THE SERVICE IS BAD! We have valet parking attendants, bartenders, cocktail waitresses, etc., making upwards of $75,000 a year here at the nice places (and some even more). Don’t let them bully you into thinking that their tip is a birthright. Vote with your wallet.

Chris Bunch ( from England which is a small island to the east
of Boston!!á ) wrote:

>I read with horror that you are to do away with the concert listings.
>Where on earth did you do your research?á Have you checked the
>percentage of foreign subscribers ( like myself ) who do not have a
>”local hockey pitch” being constantly visited by touring artists.á We
>definitely do need to be kept informed, in fact after the cheap hotel
>rooms it is probably the second most important item together with the
>restaurant reviews.á I am sorry that a lot of your readers have a very
>short attention span but that surely is not a good enough reason to
>cut out what is a most useful item.á Please don’t make the mistake
>that so many Americans make and believe that the world ends at your
>shores ….. there are quite a few of us out here and we are coming in
>increasing numbers to your city.

I left Chris’ humorous description of where he lives intact! For now, we won’t make any changes. When we do take the concert listings out of the newsletter, we’ll put them on a webpage and link them in every newsletter. One of the things I am very proud of is that we have readers in over 40 countries around the world!

Jean Haka of Waukesha, WI wrote:

>Could you, please, compile a listing OR direct me to an internet
>listing of daily slot tournaments in Las Vegas on the strip.á (Maybe
>later you could expand to include other parts of the city.á .á .á .á .
>.but maybe the locals know where they are already!) Or it you know of
>several main ones, maybe you could list them in your next newsletter
>and then invite others to share what they know.á Thanks.á .á .á hope
>I’m not asking for too big an order here!

Keeping up on that with my resources if prohibitive, but we have linked a couple of lists toward the bottom of http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-gambling-online.htm If anyone knows of additional web pages with tournament information, please let us know at allvegastv@aol.com

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

FREE CONTESTS:Rules (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.ALADDIN IMPLOSION VIDEO – I watch the implosions in person, but always have 2 VCR’s running at home to catch the extensive local news coverage of these historic events. I’ll dub off two copies of the full coverage by KTNV and give them away to the 20’th and 30’th entry at (contest closed) I regret that I can’t produce or sell these for profit to all interested. However, there is a great commercial tape including implosions of the Landmark, Sands, Hacienda and the Aladdin available from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00004SP9X/invegascom

THE FLYAWAY GETAWAY – BroadcastAmerica.Com and American Airlines are giving away two free round-trip tickets to anywhere American Airlines flies in the United States (this includes Las Vegas)! Includes 7 days and 6 nights hotel accommodations, and $1,000 in cash. Enter at http://www.broadcastamerica.com/giveaway/americanairlines/

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 9, 2000

Posted on August 9, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: News and Letters

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

ART COMES BACK TO BELLAGIO – The Phillips Collection art museum from Washington, D.C. is bringing an art exhibit to Bellagio starting Sept. 1. Included are works by Picasso, Money, Monet, and Van Gogh. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-28-Fri-2000/business/14058364.html

RESTAURANTS – Picasso at Bellagio is arguably the finest dining establishment in town and the R-J recently reviewed it at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-28-Fri-2000/weekly/14038260.html The Pullman Grille at Main Street Station always receives kind words from reviewers, the latest of which can be read at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-07-Fri-2000/weekly/13899777.html

BRING YOUR LAPTOP! – Treasure Island has placed high speed internet connections in 300 of it’s rooms, The Venetian already offers them in 500 suites, and the Aladdin is reported to offer it similar when they open. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-30-Sun-2000/business/13919237.html

PLASTIC SURGERY – is a big topic here in Las Vegas, where many jobs depend on looks and we run around in light clothing most of the year. I have heard firsthand that a local casino chain even pays for part of the cost of breast implants for their cocktail waitresses. Las Vegas is second only to D.C. in the ratio of plastic surgeons to population, but surprisingly, more and more people are visiting here to obtain and recover from plastic surgery. “One stop” centers where you can get everything from liposuction to teeth whitening are springing up. Full story at http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/archives/2000/jul/30/510569549.html

HIGH ROLLER AREAS – Few know this, but Nevada law prohibits gaming from taking place in private hotel areas that are not available to the public. Granted, they make these exclusive high limit areas very intimidating and often hard to find (no flashing neon sign pointing to them), but you are welcome to stroll through them and take a look (and see how the other half lives). Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-17-Mon-2000/business/13965730.html

THRILL RIDES – Las Vegas is becoming the new Disneyland with a thrill ride at every new hotel, and with that are safety concerns. Rest assured that the thrill rides here in Clark County are inspected and maintained at top levels. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-03-Thu-2000/lifestyles/14048924.html Also, a recent article talks about some of the pros and cons of bringing kids to Las Vegas, and what there is for them to do at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-06-Sun-2000/lifestyles/14030403.html Our take on bringing kids here is archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/99-06-24.htm

UNION PACIFIC’S CHALLENGER – steam locomotive is scheduled to steam through town in a couple of weeks. It will arrive here the evening of Aug. 21, sit here Aug. 22, and leave the morning of Aug. 23. I wasn’t able to get through to the railroad, so if you know where they are planning to park it here, let me know (I’ll keep trying). It leaves Las Vegas at approx. 8 AM on Aug. 23.

I’ll be up the tracks watching it. My advice? Head north out of town on I-15 to exit 58 (the old Las Vegas – Utah highway). Turn left under the freeway and under the railroad bridge. Drive about one mile until you round the bend and end up parallel with the tracks. You can either scope out a good viewing point, or drive along with the train. In 4 more miles, you come to another freeway interchange. If you want to keep pacing the train, get back on the freeway northbound with runs parallel to the tracks for most of the next 25 miles.

DESERT INN NAME CHANGE – Steve Wynn is doing away with another piece of Las Vegas history, not just figuratively, but literally. Unlike the Aladdin which is opening back under it’s previous name, the Desert Inn will get a new name (not yet decided). Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-04-Fri-2000/news/14089202.html

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee to boot!

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

Aladdin – Enrique Inglesias on Aug. 19. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – K.D. Lang Aug. 11, Deftones on Aug. 13, Jimmy Page plus The Black Crowes on Aug 16, Mary J. Blige on Aug. 26, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – “The Dream King” Elvis tribute starring famed impersonator Trent Carlini on Aug. 15-19, Howie Mandel Sept. 1-3, Reba McEntire Sept. 14-17, Kenny Rogers Sept. 22-23, Engelbert Humperdinck Sept. 26 – October 1, Face To Face Sept. 30, Steven Wright Oct. 7-8, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman in their “Together Again” tour Oct. 19-21 (return engagement), Sinbad Nov. 2-4, Jeff Foxworthy Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, and Brooks & Dunn Dec. 4-6. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

Mandalay Bay – Rollins Band Aug. 11, Unwritten Law Aug. 12, Earth, Wind, and Fire on Aug. 16-19, Ziggy Marley Aug. 19, Duran Duran Aug. 25-26, Isaac Hayes Aug. 25-26, Jethro Tull Aug. 27, Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, and Kenny G on Sept. 30. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Rita Rudner now – Sept. 4, Tom Jones Aug. 10-23, Sting on Aug. 19, David Copperfield Aug. 24-30, Tony winning show Cabaret Aug. 30 – Sept. 3, Rodney Dangerfield Aug. 31- Sept. 6, Carrot Top Sept. 7 – 13, Shaolin Monks on Sept. 20-28, Frozen Fury 4 pits the L.A. Kings against the Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, U.S. Open of Supercross Oct. 14-15, Pearl Jam on Oct. 22, and Tina Turner with Joe Cocker Nov. 18. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Paris – Evander Holyfield vs. John Ruiz on Aug. 12. Tickets available at (702) 946-4567 and Paris discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Paris link).

Riviera – Rich Little on Oct. 6 and 7, Tony Orlando on Oct. 13 and 14, Jackie “The Joke Man” Martling on Oct. 20 and 21. Tickets at (702) 794-9433 and Riviera discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Riviera link).

The Orleans – Marty Allen and Karon Kate Blackwell now through Aug. 7 (Fri. – Mon. nightly): one drink min., The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: News and Letters

No review this week. If you are new, rest assured that it is very rare we don’t have a review so hang tight. We are off next week and I wanted to get in all the great news and letters to the editor. Whether you are a new or long time reader, this might be a fun time to head over to https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com and browse the archives.

As noted, we take the week off next week, ramping up for our Aladdin Grand Opening issue in 2 weeks! We are going all out, not just with a full story on this new property, but will have plenty of companion photos online for you to enjoy. We are going opening night Aug. 17 (scheduled 7:00 PM to the public) and then going back the following Monday to see how things are once the madhouse of the initial weekend is done.

Thanks to all for telling their friends, as we are getting new subscribers at about the rate of 1500 a month! Through our partnership with Hotel Reservations Network, we are bringing you the low price guarantee and tossing in the $25 rebate on top of it — at the hotel of your choice (details earlier in the newsletter). We are also negotiating to start a monthly free room giveaway (2 nights at a Strip or Downtown hotel) to our readers.

We are looking to do away with listing concerts. Research seems to show that the longer a newsletter is, the more chance people are overwhelmed and put it aside or just delete it so we want to trim down a bit. We will continue to list headliners because people like Jay Leno generally don’t tour the country and you have to catch them here. But the odds are, you see your favorite touring artist at the hockey arena near your town.

Yes, we are working on the info regarding all the back ways into the casino garages to help you avoid the stop-and-go traffic on the strip. It is taking time because I want it to be 100% accurate and easy to use. And, the first newsletter in Sept. will have chances to win the collectible unused “Viva Las Vegas” show tickets from when the show was at The Sands. If you want to see what one of them looks like, we have a scan of one of them on our shows page at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm (shown at reduced size online because of space considerations).

One final note: many of you with a sharp eye have noticed that the newsletter is always dated on a Wednesday even though it’s come out late Thursday night. The original intention was to publish it late Tuesday night for Wednesday consumption, and that’s what we are going to start doing.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

NOTE: Thanks to those who wrote noting that the Imperial Palace has balconies. Living here, the amenities of the various hotels are me weak point, which is why I set up the message board at http://boards.accessvegas.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jim Clayton wrote:

>Hi, Ted ….á Geese, I’m getting to be an old geezer …á and/or I’ve
>been out in the sun too long!á …á BUT, I swear you did a little
>dialogue some time ago on where to get a good “hot dog” in LV!?!
>Please don’t laugh, but, I swear I read it somewhere…á sigh!á I have
>every piece of ANYTHING you’ve mailed out since April 14th of this
>year (that’s about the date I recovered from my catastrophic system
>crash!) and I’ll be darned if I can find it.á Please either tell me
>I’m starting to suffer from Alzheimer’s or that you DID write such an
>article!á …á If so, I’ll keep looking.á ….á sigh!á ….á Thanks!

I have yet to do a hot dog review, but if someone out there has checked out all the tourists hot dog specials and wants to submit a short report, send it to allvegastv@aol.com I appreciate the loyalty, but no need to save back issues. If you go to the newsletter’s main page at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com, you can browse back issues or do a search of all the archives!

Kendall Guess of Austin, TX wrote:

>Hello.á My husband and I will be in town in early September, and he
>loves video poker.á Is there a magazine or website that would tell us
>where there are 9-6 machines?á Last time the better paying machines
>seemed few and far between.á Thanks!

Casinos are always changing their mix of machines, and often it’s the 9/6 machines (those are the ones that are 99.5% payback with proper play) that go first. I have number of links to some of the best video poker information available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-gambling-online.htm and one of more of those sites is usually highlighting where the good machines are. (I don’t want to single one out, because they are all good sites with good people running them.)

Gerald Speen wrote:

>A lot of things have gone downhill at the Rio and
>they started even before it was bought by Harrah’s.á The prices kept
>going up, the hosts were not as accommodating, and the slot payback
>kept dropping.á We stopped going to the Rio about two years ago when
>they went back on a commitment they made to us (we received a hollow
>apology from a VP, but it was not very convincing.).á We have always
>questioned how they can call their rooms “suites” just because they
>put a couch or love seat in the room.á We have always felt that a
>suite needed to be two separate rooms.á Certainly, the rooms were
>nice, but they are not suites.á We are not surprised that people are
>abandoning the Rio.á It used to be our favorite hotel.á Now, we don’t
>even consider it.á And, of course, we throw away the special offers
>that they send to us.á Again, they are not that great and have too
>many conditions to enjoy them.á It is not clear if it is Harrah’s or
>the Rio management that has made it lose its charm, but they certainly
>turned us off.

Interesting comments. A couple of years ago a CA attorney sued The Rio because (as you noted) the rooms were mostly one big room, not anything resembling a true suite. I don’t recall hearing the outcome.

T.áSmith wrote:

>I are at the carnival buffet in March and it was
>treble.á I had heard on TV that it was the best in town.á Also a cab
>driver told me that it was great.á Of course he went on to say that
>the Rio serves them Christmas dinner.á I should have figured that one
>out.á The seafood buffet may be good, but that was the worst buffet I
>have eaten in Vegas.

A couple of weeks ago, we noted that the quality had improved lately, but you highlight an interesting point: know your source. Don’t get me wrong — cabbies work hard, many working 12 hour days 5-6 days a week. BUT, if you fought traffic for 60 hours a week on the strip, what would you do when you got off work? That’s right — get as far away from it as possible, not hanging out walking around and checking everything out objectively.

Believe it or not, most locals (including cabbies) suggest something as “the best” because they see that commercial on TV until it’s pounded into their head. Obviously, we hope that you make our newsletter and the archives a key part of your research. You can also go to http://www.accessvegas.com/best-of-las-vegas.htm and link to a couple of great, unbiased sources of information.

R. Artho of Dumas, TX wrote:

>We visited Shark Reef on Tuesday, July 11. The aquarium
>is quite nice, and there were helpful guides at every
>point along the way to answer questions. It is an
>impressive undertaking and a beautiful aquarium, but like
>most things in Las Vegas, we felt that the $13 admission
>price was a little too high. You do have the option of
>spending as much time as you want at any point in the
>tour, but there are no places provided to sit and observe
>the fish except in the tunnel leading out of the exhibit.
>A touch pool with human helpers seemed very interesting
>to younger visitors. We rated it as a good aquarium, and
>found it interesting, but not entirely worth the
>admission price.

We agree, and our recent review of Shark Reef is now archived online with photos at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-17-12.htm

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

ONLINE POLL – “Do you visit Downtown and the Fremont St. Experience when in Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last weeks poll “Do you visit Downtown and the Fremont St. Experience when in Las Vegas?”

Never have, and in no hurry. 4%
I get there once every few trips – same old thing. 18%
I like to get down there at least once a trip to eat, gamble, and see “Old Vegas”. 46%
I stay downtown often! 30%

FREE CONTESTS:

FREE VEGAS TRIP – Las Vegas Total Experience Pass Vacation Package from Southwest Air includes Roundtrip air for two to Las Vegas via Southwest Airlines, 2 nights hotel accommodations at the Luxor Las Vegas, and more. Enter at http://www.swavacations.com/sweep.htm

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 2, 2000

Posted on August 2, 2000September 30, 2014 by admin

Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions!

Read Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com
Post Opinions: http://boards.accessvegas.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This Issue: Pasta Pirate

Curious about a restaurant, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that looks fun? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: allvegastv@aol.com

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

BLUE SUEDE SHOES – The Elvis-A-Rama Museum is displaying Elvis’ blue suede shoes, which he wore July 1, 1956 during his appearance on the Steve Allan show. The shoes alone are valued at almost 1 million dollars! Our review with photos of the Elvis-A-Rama museum is at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-05-24.htm

DECLINE OF THE RIO? – The Rio is laying off 100 people, and I’m hearing more complaints from regular Rio visitors who feel that ever since Harrah’s bought the upscale off-strip property, service and quality have gone downhill. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-02-Wed-2000/business/14085104.html If you are a regular Rio visitor and want to comment, drop us a note at allvegastv@aol.com and let us know your experiences.

DEALER JOBS – seem to be plentiful if you don’t mind breaking in off the Strip. The growth of casino gaming nationwide as well as the tight job market are leaving many casinos scrambling for help in all areas. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-16-Sun-2000/news/13742015.html

WINERY – in the desert? The Pahrump Valley Vineyards has been growing grapes and making wine 60 miles west of Las Vegas for a number of years now, and tours are available. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-14-Fri-2000/weekly/13920778.html

FREE SHOWS – The R-J just reviewed 4 free shows: Excalibur Dragon Moat, Bellagio Fountains, Lost City of Atlantis, and Battling Buccaneers. Great details on each show at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-23-Sun-2000/lifestyles/13957459.html — print this out for your next trip!

TOMCATS – The big-screen romantic comedy has been filming around town. It involves a group of single guys who have each invested in a fund that goes to the last one of them to stay single. The movie is slated for release next summer and full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jul-31-Mon-2000/lifestyles/14050843.html

CONDOS ON THE STRIP – A complex that will include a 52-story tower, hotel rooms and condominium units, four restaurants and 400 thousand square feet of retail space is headed to the Strip. The twist? No gambling is proposed for this development. full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-01-Tue-2000/business/14081459.html

SEXIEST BACHELOR – in America will be broadcast from the MGM on Oct. 2 by the Fox Network. 50 men from each state will be competing, but not to marry someone a la the ill-fated “Who Wants To Marry A Millionaire.” Full story at http://www.bergen.com/yourtime/tvnan29200007299.htm

$25 HOTEL REBATE – Extended to any reservation made in August (for travel any time)! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve! Claiming your cash is simple:

It doesn’t get any easier than that, and you get their low price guarantee to boot!

WINNERS! – Roberta Isaacs of Jamul, CA and Nora Corrin of Hamilton, Ontario Canada won the Jubilee! programs.

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

Melinda – First Lady of Magic is back in town. I enjoyed her show at the Lady Luck a few years ago, and she now has a new home at The Venetian! You can read about her new show at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?ID=67&amid=143&cscheme=5 and purchase tickets their as well.

Aladdin – Enrique Inglesias on Aug. 19. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Aladdin discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Aladdin link).

Hard Rock Hotel – B-52’s on Aug. 5, K.D. Lang Aug. 11, Deftones on Aug. 13, Jimmy Page plus The Black Crowes on Aug 16, Mary J. Blige on Aug. 26, Robert Cray Band on Sept. 3, and Culture Club on Nov. 14. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – Def Comedy Jam on Aug. 4-5, “The Dream King” Elvis tribute starring famed impersonator Trent Carlini on Aug. 15-19, Reba McEntire Sept. 14-17, Kenny Rogers Sept. 22-23, Face To Face Sept. 30, Steven Wright Oct. 7-8, Tim Conway and Harvey Korman in their “Together Again” tour Oct. 19-21 (return engagement), Sinbad Nov. 2-4, Jeff Foxworthy Nov. 30 – Dec. 3, and Brooks & Dunn Dec. 4-6. Tickets are available at (800) 222-5361 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

Mandalay Bay – Psychedelic Furs Aug. 5, D’ Angelo Aug. 7, Brian Setzer on Aug. 8, Paula Cole Band Aug. 9, Rollins Band Aug. 11, Unwritten Law Aug. 12, Earth, Wind, and Fire on Aug. 16-19, Ziggy Marley Aug. 19, Duran Duran Aug. 25-26, Isaac Hayes Aug. 25-26, Jethro Tull Aug. 27, Godsmack on Aug. 31, Static X Sept. 1, Third Eye Blond on Sept. 2, George Clinton on Sept. 6, Joan Osbourne on Sept. 8, Savage Garden Sept. 10, Bangles on Sept. 15, Steve Miller Band Sept. 17, Luther Vandros with Boyz II Men Sept. 22, Little Feat Sept. 22, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on Sept. 29, and Kenny G on Sept. 30. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Penn and Teller now – Aug. 9, Sting on Aug. 19, Carrot Top Sept. 7 – 13, Frozen Fury 4 pits the L.A. Kings against the Colorado Avalanche on Sept. 30, Pearl Jam on Oct. 22, and Tina Turner with Joe Cocker Nov. 18. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

Paris – Evander Holyfield vs. John Ruiz on Aug. 12. Tickets available at (702) 946-4567 and Paris discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Paris link).

The Orleans – All-4-One Aug. 4-6, Marty Allen and Karon Kate Blackwell now through Aug. 7 (Fri. – Mon. nightly): one drink min., The Little River Band on Sept. 1-3, and The Everly Brothers Oct. 25-29. Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

Thomas & Mack – Triple Crown of Freestyle Motorcross Aug. 5, Korn, Powerman 5000 and Papa Roach on Aug. 9, Up In Smoke tour featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dog, and Eminem on Aug. 11, Red Hot Chili Peppers with Stone Temple Pilots on Sept. 13, AC/DC on Sept. 14, and Phish on Sept. 29. Tickets at (888) 464-2468. The Hard Rock hotel is within walking distance of the Thomas and Mack and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FEATURE STORY: Pasta Pirate

I’ve received an unusually high number of requests to review this out-of-the-way restaurant in the California Hotel downtown, and I’m glad I did! While “The Cal” is a decent place with some good full-pay video poker machines, I can count on one hand the times I’ve set foot in the place. It is owned by the Boyd Gaming Group (Main St. Station, Fremont, Stardust, Sam’s Town, etc.) and is a favorite of Hawaiians coming over to escape a little “island fever” and enjoy some gambling (which we understand is completely illegal in our 50’th state).

Pasta Pirate takes on the decor on an old warehouse what has been remodeled into an eatery, much the same as the brew pub at Monte Carlo. However, the Pasta Pirate is much more subdued and intimate. I’d be surprised if it seats 100. The high ceiling brings comfort, but does not all detract from the cozy feel of the room. I won’t think twice about taking a date there. What’s more, the room is comfortably trendy without making any age group feel out of place.

What’s more, the prices are very reasonable considering the quality of the service and surroundings. Appetizers lean toward the sea, with varieties of oysters, shrimp, escargot, clams, and crabs ranging from $5.95 to $6.95.

Pasta dishes are $7.95 or $8.95, and you have a choice of Fettuccine Alfredo, Spaghetti and Meat Balls, Penne Diana, Linguine Di Vongole, Tortellini Bolognese, Angel Hair Pomodoro, and Rigatoni Romano. The exception is the Pasta of the Day — a special pasta prepared by the chef — for $12.95.

They really go all out on the entrees with Mixed Seafood grilled in Lemon Basil with Linguine ($13.75), Shrimp Scampi ($13.95), Swordfish Chop al Fresco ($12.95), Lobster fra Diavolo (market price), Cioppino over Linguine ($13.75), Catch of the Day (varies), Sausage and Pepper Bianco ($10.95), Ribeye Steak ($12.95), and Mesquite Broiled Rosemary Pork Loin ($11.95).

Other dishes include Filet Mignon with Prawns ($13.95), Filet with Baby Lobster Tail ($15.75), Alaskan King Crab Legs ($23.95), and Live Maine Lobster (market price).

All dinners come with Seafood Soup or “Pirate” Salad and a fresh bread basket. Pasta dinners also come with a glass of house wine. The bread was an excellent sourdough accompanied by some of the best herb garlic butter I’ve ever enjoyed.

Pasta Pirate is in the California Hotel downtown. Hours are daily from 5 PM to 10:30 PM. Reservations are recommended at 385-1222.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Amy Logsdon wrote:

>I meant to write last time you mentioned this, but forgot. á I saw De
>La Guarda in NYC in December and prepped by reading their web site
>( http://www.delaguarda.com/indeng.htm ).á I am sure it is a separate
>production from C d S.á They have had De La Guarda stagings in NYC,
>London, France, Argentina, and Brazil as well as in Las Vegas.á It is
>a bit like Cirque (other- worldly non plot driven, with amazing feats
>of athleticism, and live music) but on a smaller budget, with LOTS
>more audience participation, and a mega-dose of pheromones or
>testosterone or something.á I enjoyed the show in New York immensely
>and look forward to the new production at the Rio.á Thanks for letting
>people know about it.á I hope it will be a success.

We dropped the ball on that one. The show is Cirque-like, but not a Cirque production. Thanks for all who pointed out my error!

David Bochert wrote:

>We just completed a five week RV trip from Pennsylvania to Vegas, Los
>Angeles, Sequoia, Yosemite, San Francisco, the Central Coast and back
>to Pennsylvania.á Our five day stay in Vegas was GREAT!
>
>For those reader who RV, I highly recommend the Circus Circus RV Park.
>It has easy in and out from I-15 since the entrance is a block behind
>the Strip and you avoid all the heavy traffic.á And once parked, you
>are on the Strip! á Yes, is it like a large concrete parking lot with
>electric, water, and sewer hookups, but you also have a 24 hour
>convenience store, clean restrooms, a pool, and a free shuttle to the
>main entrance of the Circus Circus casino.á (Though it is just a short
>walk to the rear entrance of Circus Circus, then an escalator and a
>moving sidewalk takes you right into the upper casino and shops.) With
>AAA discount, it was only $16 a night and I repeat .á .á .á you are
>right on the Strip! á The shuttle from the campground will drop you at
>the buffet, or the main entrance to Circus Circus.á From there you can
>catch a trolley to anywhere on the Strip.á Or walk!
>
>Shows: We saw 6 ticket shows in our five day stay.á None were “bad.”
>I enjoyed all of them, but, or course, some were better then others.
>Of the big three late night “topless” shows, we enjoyed the best –
>”Jubilee” at Bally’s, then “Splash” at the Riviera, then “Folies
>Bergere” at the Tropicana.á We thought “The Rick Thomas Magic Show”
>was great, and enjoyed both “Viva Las Vegas” and “American Superstars”
>at the Stratosphere.á As for the theaters: I would give thumbs-up to
>Bally’s and thumbs-down to the Tropicana.
>
>I am not a big gambler, though I did enjoy playing the slots.á But we
>never ran out of things to do! á We would return to our RV about 2 AM
>and be at a breakfast buffet by 10 AM.á – for 5 straight days.á We had
>a GREAT time!

Emmie wrote:

>My husband and I are going to Las Vegas for New Year’s Eve.á I was
>wondering other than headliners and shows, if they have any
>entertainment on the strip.á I heard that last year there were
>fireworks and entertainment on the street.á I was wondering if that is
>every year or that was just for the millennium celebration?

For those new to the newsletter (and we welcome the 300+ of you that are signing up every week)!, there are going to be fireworks this year. Past that, the 300,000 people that line the 3.5 miles of the Strip (which is closed to traffic) are quite the show in and of itself. Here is a repeat of our story:

FIREWORKS – LVCVA has authorized a half-million dollars for New Year’s Eve fireworks this year. We’ve been sitting on this one for a few weeks, as we didn’t want to get anyone’s hopes up, but it’s now a done deal! Full story at http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/business/2000/may/22/510288532.html New Year’s Eve discount rates already available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm and prices have already risen since we published the story a few weeks ago so now is a great time to think about locking your room up.

Andrew Tarascio wrote:

>I will be in Vegas the last week of August.á Where can I go Swing
>dancing?á Thanks.

Colin wrote:

>Just wondered if you could tell me if any of the major hotels on the
>strip offer rooms with balconies ?
>
>Thanks

Readers help us out with either of the above at allvegastv@aol.com

++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++

ONLINE POLL – “Do you visit Downtown and the Fremont St. Experience when in Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

MARY J. BILGE – Enter to win tickets for her August 26 at the Hard Rock by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Mary J. Blige Tickets, P.O. Box 230040, Las Vegas, NV 89123. One registration per person, winner notified by mail.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

New to the list? Back issues and subscription info can be found on the web at: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

Page 75 of 82

« Previous 1 … 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 Next »

Top Las Vegas Shows

Author Archive: admin

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 11, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 4, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 27, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 20, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 13, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 6, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 30, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 23, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 9, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 2, 2000

Information

About and Contact

Las Vegas Sites

Sister City Sites