Category Archives: Las Vegas Newsletter

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 14, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – We’re inching toward Winter Solstice (Dec. 22) and I’m looking forward to the days starting to get longer again. The fact that Las Vegas is sunny just about every day means nothing when the sun goes down so early! As we get toward the end of the year here, the news cycle has slowed down a little bit. The next couple of issues will be “kitchen sink” issues (everything but the kitchen sink). A mish-mash of news and thoughts that haven’t made previous issues, but should be interesting to most nonetheless.

New Years Eve – Next week, we’ll have all the details but expect business as usual with a nearly 9 minute fireworks show going off from The Tropicana to The Stratosphere. (Be warned that no hotels between Venetian and Strat will have displays). Let’s hope for better weather than last year when midnight temps were slightly below freezing. I’m getting too old for that! Tip for locals: One of the best “up close” views of the show is from the top of Palace Station parking garage. They close off the top floor and welcome everyone up for the look-see.

Celebrating All The Holidays – We know that Las Vegas goes “boom” in a big way for New Years Eve. Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving Day also result in big weekends. The LVCVA (Convention and Visitors Authority) is now suggesting turning more special event days into “Vegas Holidays”. As usual, the LVCVA is just sobering up and way behind what is actually already happening. I’ve been screaming about this for years!

Halloween has morphed into a Vegas Holiday with the nightclubs really stoking that fire. Cinco De Mayo has turned into a pretty big celebration. Not because of the LVCVA, but because of various casinos and bars doing events. Check out this video of Harrah’s 2010 Cinco de Mayo outdoor celebration. I’m completely floored that we don’t do Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday here. Are you kidding me?!?!? We could out-do New Orleans (and The Strip doesn’t smell like urine). Better late then never. More events for our visitors!

All Drinks $2 – Once again this year, the South Point is serving all drinks at their casino bars for $2 through December 24. I know that some of you gasp in horror at the thought of leaving The Strip, but this is quite the excuse to see how the locals eat, drink, and play at one of the city’s newer properties. (South Point is known for loose slots and good payback on video poker). They have a shuttle (schedule) for $8 round trip or the 6 mile cab fare will run you about $15 each way.

Tour Helicopter Crash – I like to focus on the good news and fun involving Las Vegas. However, I’d be remiss in mentioning the helicopter crash that took the lives of two couples and the pilot. One of the couples was celebrating their 25’th wedding anniversary, the other were newlyweds, and the pilot himself was a newlywed. Without singling out any particular tour companies (including the one involved in this horrible accident), let me note that when it comes to tours, you often get what you pay for.

We’ve been happily associate with a certain helicopter company (which I won’t name in this instance because this isn’t about capitalizing on tragedy) for well over a decade now. They are pretty much the most expensive. They also fly some of the newest equipment and can afford some of the best pilots. Guess what: They have an amazing safety record.

This extends to other aspects of your visit as well. The 1/2 price ticket booths are very popular. But keep a couple things in mind: At any given time, any show can end up for sale that day. Even the top shows rarely sell out every seat, every night. BUT… some showsáend up there day in and day out, and with good reason. They aren’t great shows. And since you’re the last one to buy tickets, guess where you’ll be sitting? Don’t get me wrong, if you just want to kill 90 minutes (shows are often cheaper than gambling), what the heck. But if you want good seats to the better shows, go ahead and book well in advance.

The Defenders – For those who blinked and missed the Jim Belushi/Jerry O’Connell Vegas-based show called The Defenders, Netflix is streaming all 13 episodes.

Special Christmas Menus – Similar to Thanksgiving, many of the restaurants in the hotels will be featuring a special holiday menu (in addition to their regular menu). If spending Christmas here in town (many families do), you might inquire with the restaurants that catch your eye to check options for Christmas dining, reservations, etc. ASAP upon your arrival.

Like And Tweet – Enjoy our information? Share it with your friends and followers (Click to Like or Tweet, hover over the share button for Email A Friend menu):

 

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Winter in Venice, Christmas, Venetian, Palazzo, WinterThe Venetian and the Palazzo Las Vegas First-Ever Winter in Venice Holiday Celebration Continues – The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas are hosting Winter in Venice, the first true celebration of the winter season on the Las Vegas Strip. Winter in Venice is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable holiday experience through Jan. 8. The whimsical festivities features an enchanting ice skating rink above The Venetian’s picturesque outdoor Grand Canal, welcoming skaters to make figure-eights or glide hand-in-hand with loved ones. Surrounded by snowflakes, strung overhead holiday lights and an awe-inspiring 65-foot LED holiday tree sitting atop the Doge’s Palace fountain, guests are entertained by strolling candy cane stilt walkers, puppets, jugglers and magicians.

Odgen, Pool, Downtown, Upscale, kitchen, living room

The Return of Upscale Living in Downtown Las Vegas with The Ogden – Renovations to Streamline Tower Reveal Premium High-Rise – Located in the heart of Las Vegas’ flourishing arts and entertainment district, The Ogden offers an unparalleled experience with front-row seats to the downtown revitalization effort along with an alternative solution for residents that prefer a chic lifestyle paired with a convenient leasing option. The new Ogden will offers contemporary living without the long-term commitment.

Cabo Wabo, Sammy Hagar, I can't drive 55, dollar nachosCabo Wabo Ups The Ante With Sammy Hagar’s ‘I Can’t Drive 55’ Dollar Nachos – Cabo Wabo Introduces its Most Extreme Menu Item – Everyone knows the Red Rocker can’t drive 55, so Cabo Wabo has decided to up the ante with its newest extreme dish, Sammy Hagar’s ‘I Can’t Drive 55’ Dollar Nachos. This colossal appetizer includes Cabo Wabo’s signature tortilla chips piled high with 20 tasty toppings, available for $55. And because the Red Rocker is certain that this dish will take an entire army to finish, he invites guests to take his ‘I Can’t Drive 55’ Dollar Nacho challenge. Cabo Wabo threw just about everything in the kitchen, minus the sink, into this massive mound of nacho goodness.

Ice Skate, The Villiage, Lake Las VegasThe Village Lake Las Vegas Kicks off the Holidays with Skating on The Lake – Bringing back an annual tradition with the world-famous floating ice rink – It wouldn’t be the Holiday season without a spin around one of Las Vegas’ most celebrated attractions. The one-of-a-kind floating ice rink has become a quintessential Vegas winter experience among locals and tourists alike. Guests bundle up and head to this destination attraction to skate on the unique platform that holds up to 75 skaters at one time with the picturesque back drop of The Village Lake Las Vegas.

Yoga, Spa, Mirage, DolphinThe Mirage Nurtures Nature – Offers Yogis One-of-a-Kind Yoga Class With Dolphin Views – The Spa at The Mirage is taking downward-facing dog to the dolphins with a new, one-of-a-kind class, Yoga Among the Dolphins, offered in a serene, underwater viewing area within Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat. ”Guests from all over the world cherish the dolphins at The Mirage,” said The Mirage Spa Director Stephanie Doud. ”When I looked at adding yoga to our spa menu, it only made sense to take advantage of the property’s exotic, wondrous dolphin world and the atmosphere of relaxation provided by the animals.”

Maverick Helicopter River Rafting TourMaverick Helicopter Combo Adventure with River Rafting Tour û Our Wind Dancer Flight with an added thrill of rafting the Colorado River through Black Canyon. An adventure of a lifetime! You will begin your day with complimentary hotel pick-up and your jet helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon. Your pilot will bring you back to the Boulder City Airport to be greeted by the river rafter team for a motorized 10-mile float.

Click To Book Maverick Helicopter Combo Adventure with River Rafting Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Motley Crue Residency At The Hard Rock – In 2012, the world’s most notorious rock band will take on the world’s most notorious city for the first ever hard rock residency in Las Vegas. Enjoy this ”barely safe for work” preview.
  • Book Tickets Now: Motley Crue
  • Historic Railroad Trail At Lake Mead National Recreation Area – The historic railroad trail was a railroad right of way originally used to haul equipment and materials for the construction of Hoover Dam. The railroad was decommissioned in 1961 after the last power generator was installed in the dam. The trail is 3.7 miles one way and goes from the trailhead near the Lake Mead NRA Alan Bible Visitor Center to the Hoover Dam visitor parking structure.
  • Pahrump Valley Winery – Not far from the strip is Nevada’s most award winning winery, Pahrump Valley Winery. You heard me right, our neighbors out at Pahrump are growing their own grapes and turning them into award winning wines. And if that isn’t enough for you to make an easy hour drive, well, you can also stroll their beautiful grounds and grab a bite to eat at their gourmet restaurant Symphony’s, named after their Gold Medal winning wine of the same name.
  • Las Vegas in Kodachrome c.1962 – 16mm Kodachrome home movies from a group of Chicago Police officers and their wives while they visit Las Vegas in the early 1960s. The opening sequence takes place in a bus with long curved plexiglass windows (which makes for easy viewing of the Nevada / Arizona country) and is perfectly clear and in focus – incredible stuff.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Note From Ted: This week (only) we’ll be featuring some of the feedback toward our decision to move to a paid subscriber newsletter model. Should you wish to chime in, you can use the contact information at the end of this segment. You know that I’m always transparent in addressing reader thoughts and concerns.

Next week, we return to the normal format for this section with lots of reader reports, tips, and questions answered!

We will be so sorry to lose this e-mail from you. Being retired and on a fixed income, and everything still going up, we cannot pay for anything that is not essential. I do save a bit for vacations, etc., and hope to visit once in a while. Just have to watch our pennies to do so. Perhaps we are two of your oldest subscribers as we have been long time readers. Good articles!!.

We thank you for a great newsletter and appreciate all the news about one of our favorite towns. Good luck in your new venture. Will miss you!!

Kay G

 

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the note. The bottom line is that we can’t continue to publish with the current scope for free at the expense of properly maintaining and upgrading our website, which is capable of reaching far more people.

Just as you would not want to work for free, I certainly can’t ask my small crew to put in extra hours off the clock to maintain both the site and the newsletter. Nor can I do it all by myself.

I crunched some numbers: Let’s say that the average cost of a Las Vegas vacation is $1000 a couple just for room, air, and food. Let’s say that it is a four day, three night stay which comes to around 60 waking hours here. That right there is $16.67 per waking HOUR while you are here. Just to be here.

If our information just saves you 1.5 hours of otherwise wasted or wandering time (because you know what is going on), it has paid for itself. Add to that deals we scour the web for that you can take advantage of on your trip, and you’ve more than covered the modest fee we’ll be asking.

Add into that the hours and hours that someone would spend trying to look up and find all this info on their own, and a couple of bucks a month to save all those hours turns into something that actually saves you, not something that costs you.

I appreciate that you may not be able to spare $2 per month for what we do. I respect that and thank you for being a long-time reader. Understanding that the economy is bad, I purposely kept the price as low as possible. To put it in perspective, another long time Las Vegas newsletter (which I have immense respect for) only publishes monthly and charges upwards of $40 per year.

But the simple economics are to cut way back on the information in the newsletter (an option I don’t find acceptable), or to ask readers who find it of value to help us out with $1.99 per month.

Thanks for your feedback,

Ted Newkirk
CEO, Managing Editor
AccessVegas.com

Your newsletter indicates that you are start charging in a few weeks. I can not find where to sign up. Help!!

On another note, I’ve returned from a trip mid November, stayed at the Aria. Used the $20.00 upgrade move and got a wonderful room. Two suggestion when staying there. One, request a room near the elevators, I need a pack mule for supplies to get from the elevator to my room. Two, be careful in the showers, the floor are polished smooth and of course, get them wet, they get slippery.

I have trouble using the electronic to operate the TV but that was probably my fault.

I agree with one of your readers in that they need to install a moving sidewalk to get the general public into the casino. And also for the guests for the Aria that want to go out and wander the Strip.

Dennis Hall

 

Ted Responds:

We’re still getting everything prepped. Don’t worry, we’ll provide plenty of advance notice. I’m so excited about the great, new things we’ll be able to do in 2012 once we’re able to better staff our little operation here! I can’t count the number of great ideas we come up with that we just don’t have the manpower to implement.

We have to keep most of them under our hat, but one is video: The internet is flooded with Vegas video, but 95% of it is unprofessionally produced and you have to sift through so many videos to (for example) find a good walk-through of a hotel room or an attraction you may want to know more about. If you find the “official” video for something, it is usually a 60 second advertisement that does not help much.

We’d love to shoot a series of 3-4 minute videos covering much of what Las Vegas has to offer, well produced, no BS. This would be invaluable to our members, as you could take a nice overview of something from the comfort of your home, and then decide whether it is up your alley. As opposed to coming here, trying it, and maybe finding it wasn’t for you (which wastes your time and money). As you can imagine, that takes time my present crew simply does not have.

Another example: Las Vegas is flooded with deals. I don’t mean a couple of ongoing steak specials. I mean happy hours, limited time prix fixe meals, much more. We’ve had endless requests to make a part of the site featuring all of this and we simply don’t have the resources to do so (it requires so much research to stay on top of it all as deals change weekly and even daily). Once we’re able to increase staffing, we’d like to keep this updated information in (what will be) our members area. That alone will save everybody the cost of the yearly subscription!

Thanks for the feedback on Aria. I agree and we’ve suggested in the past that in really big properties like Aria and MGM, the rooms can be quite a hike if you are don’t get put near the elevator banks. You aren’t the first to struggle with the Aria features. Cutting edge, but perhaps they should come with an operations manual!

We’ll keep an eye on what CityCenter does once The Harmon comes down. They’ll have a second chance to make the property more friendly to those walking The Strip.

Love your newsletter and donÆt mind helping out with the paid subscription. This route certainly makes sense. How will it work? Will you send out e-mails to let us know the new newsletter is off and running with the address to which the check should be sent? Just want to know so that I wonÆt be left out or miss the info. Thanks again for this helpful newsletter and your attention to detail.

Edith

 

Ted Responds:

We’ll have numerous payment options including the ability to send in a check. We’re in the process of working it all out.

Thanks in advance for the support. With everyone pitching in just a little bit, we believe that we’ll be able to produce the most amazing resource out there for Las Vegas visitors!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe December 7, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’d like to personally apologize if you visited over the weekend into the early week. Temperatures struggled to make it to 50 degrees F and we had numerous overnight lows below freezing. If you are a regular reader, you know that I’ve reminded everybody over the past few months that our average Dec. and Jan. low temps are 57 (for both months). Fortunately, we’re pretty much getting back to those numbers. And, that the actual temperature can easily be 10+ degrees of average.

Working Pretty Well – Posting the newsletter online (instead of delivering it in email) is a nice step forward. So many more are enjoy it because it doesn’t get caught in spam filters. Additionally, the look and feel stays intact for ease of reading. Even more importantly, I don’t have to kill myself trying to censor it. We have to use words like strip (as in Las Vegas Strip), casinos, gambling, poker, topless (as in shows) and similar. And those are some of the exact words which spam filters use to keep email from getting to you.

Sahara Officially Renamed – A Bloomberg interview with Sahara owner Sam Nazarian indicates that he will be changing the name of the property to SLS Las Vegas and the property will be remade as a trendy, boutique hotel. Which (as I’ve stated before) won’t work in that location in a million years. In related news…

Fon-Tain-Blu-(Goes-Boom)? – The Fontainebleau (spelled phonetically in the blurb title) is seeing quite a bit of hard hat action lately. As exclusively reported by Scott Whitney on Living in Las Vegas #133, discovery is being done to figure out whether it is cheaper to implode the building or take it apart and sell the steel. However, given the resurgence of the Las Vegas economy and solid projections of visitor growth over the next few years, I have to think that finishing the property is still an option.

I have mixed emotions. The building is very out-of-place for the location, boring looking, and and way too tall. Having said that, demolition would be a black eye on Las Vegas at a time things have really turned around. As always, we’ll keep you posted! Speaking of Las Vegas turning around…

You Don’t Say – Analysts are noting modest revenue increases for Las Vegas tourism in 2012 on the heels of gains in the past few months. We didn’t need analysts to figure this out. How about you walk around downtown or The Strip and look with you own eyes. Las Vegas is jammed again!

Biggest growth for 2012 will be in the affluent traveler segment. For those of you complaining that Las Vegas is becoming just for the rich (completely not true, and we give examples of room and food bargains on a regular basis), certainly the segment catering to the wealthier visitor will increase. Look for every steepening rates at places like Wynn/Encore, Venetian/Palazzo, CityCenter, and even Bellagio.

Regardless of the level of your accommodations, prices are on the rise. If you are even thinking about a 2012 Vegas vacation, I’d strongly suggest clicking over to visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and enter some dates looking to lock something up. Waiting will only bring higher prices.

Many of you saw an article titled Is Nevada recovering? Depends on who you ask in your local papers. Considering that the article was written by someone from out-of-state, they actually did a pretty good job of nailing it. If you are on tourism, you’re probably doing fine. The sector is starting to return to normal. For those in construction, forget about it. Years will go by before the foreclosure housing is absorbed (prompting new home construction),áno resorts are on the drawing board, and we have a glut of commercial space.

Thank You Steve Wynn – According to a recent published report, it was Steve Wynn who at a routine meeting with Clark County (Las Vegas) Sheriff Doug Gillespie brought up the issue of how intimidating the pornslappers (adult escort service handbill distributors) were to visitors. Gillespie and the companies who do the “handbilling” have evidently come to an agreement.

Police won’t harass the pornslappers (who are protected under their right to free speech) if the distributors agree to doing things like not slapping the cards (which makes a noise and gets people’s attention), not shoving them in people’s faces, cleaning up after themselves and similar. We’ll see how this is going. As I’ve always noted, the best advice is to literally ignore them. Treat them like they don’t exist.

50/50 – Las Vegas is now attracting just as many female visitors as male. This is a sharp cry from when I first moved here in 1993 and Vegas was a “boys vacation” town. Lots more things for girls to do to get in trouble then there was back then…

Take A Ride On The Wild Side – Motley Crue is slated to do 12 dates at the Hard Rock during the months of February. This is an experiment to see if a hard rock act can make a residency work in Las Vegas a la Celine Dion. This won’t be a typical Motley concert date (which are pretty theatrical to begin with). They promise to use the fact that they’ll be in one spot (they don’t have to break the show down each night) to add all kinds of twists and turns to the show. Tickets are now available: Motley Crue Las Vegas Tickets

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style: Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Holly Madison, Birthday, Chateau Nightclub, PeepshowHolly Madison Celebrated her Birthday at Chateau Nightclub and Gardens – The gorgeous Holly Madison wowed the crowd on the red carpet as she celebrated her 32nd birthday at Chateau Nightclub & Gardens inside Paris Las Vegas, Saturday night. The Las Vegas ”PEEPSHOW” star dazzled in a gold sparkle dress by Versace for H&M collection and red sparkle Christian Louboutin stilettos with gold spikes. Photo Credit: Denise Truscello/WireImage

Railroad Pass, Gingerbread, ChristmasRailroad Pass Hotel and Casino Announces Gingerbread Houses Display – It’s Holiday time at the Historic Railroad Pass Hotel & Casino. And, as part of the year- long 80th birthday celebration, they are bringing back a tradition from the 1800’s with the artistry of Gingerbread Houses.

The Hard Rock Store Supports The Salvation Army – Donate And Win! – ‘Tis the season for giving and The Hard Rock Store inside Hard Rock Hotel & Casino supports The Salvation Army of Southern Nevada by encouraging guests to make donations between now and the end of the year. Suitable items include non-perishable food and cold weather attire.

winter cocktailThe Waterfall, Atrium and Gardens Of The Palazzo Transform Into A Majestic Winter Utopia û Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resorts’ festive Winter in Venice cocktails – As part of The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs (click link to book) inaugural Winter in Venice celebration, the resortsÆ horticulture team put the finishing touches on its unique winter displays in the resortÆs Waterfall, Atrium & Gardens this morning. Guests are invited to enjoy one of the resortsÆ festive Winter in Venice cocktails while enjoying the distinctive scenery including the popular Gondolier Blanco served at The Venetian and The PalazzoÆs bars and lounges.

Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon TourDream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with beverages, snacks and Extra Flight Time in the Grand Canyon! Experience the journey of a lifetime. Your journey begins with a flight out of Las Vegas to Hidden Valley to see the arches. Continue your journey to the Valley of Fire, were you will see red rock formations and some of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating desert landscape.

Click To Book Dream Catcher Sunset Grand Canyon Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Las Vegas Cashes In on Reality Television – Las Vegas is famous for its glitz and glamor. The vibrant city oozes sex appeal. Increasingly, the characters on reality television programs set in Las Vegas provide fascinating scripts not even Hollywood could create. From the young, wild and hot on the E! Channel’s ”Holly’s World”, to big spenders indulging at the Hard Rock’s Rehab pool party, to oddballs getting locked up on Tru TV’s ”Las Vegas Jailhouse”, it all adds up to free promotion for the entertainment capital of the world. Read More…
  • Las VegasÆ Over-the-Top Bathrooms – Any self-respecting traveler knows the importance of finding a clean public bathroom. It’s a place not only to take care of “‘business,” but a place to regroup and take a break from the masses. But in Las Vegas some public bathrooms are giving new meaning to the term royal flush. From over-the-top decor, to wall art that keeps customers lingering (maybe a bit too long) –even free language lessons, a trip to the bathroom can be as exciting as hitting the jack pot. Read more…
  • Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat – Living in Las Vegas certainly has many perksà one being the amazing access you get to activities usually planned for vacation trips. One great example that we’ve come across is the Dolphin Habitat at Mirage. Eight magical Atlantic bottlenose dolphins just waiting for you to join them as a ôtrainer for a dayàö You’ll get to feed the dolphins, learn to train the dolphins, and dine with the dolphins.
  • Red Rock Canyon Time Lapse Scenic Drive – Last week, we presented the Red Rock Casino to Blue Diamond time lapse drive. Now see what happens when you take the ultra-scenic Red Rock Canyon loop. A fast drive though the 12.5 mile narrow road of Red Rock Canyon Park just outside of Las Vegas.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I live in South Florida and visit Vegas every year, sometimes twice. If they build a huge casino complex in Miami it would not change my visiting Vegas. I don’t come to Vegas for the gambling but for the shows, restaurants and fun. The gambling in second. Before I moved to FL (2 years ago) I lived in MD and seldom went to Atlantic City. Not a fun place. No matter how many casinos/resorts they build in the country there is still only one Vegas!!!

Doris Osborne

 

Ted Responds:

A recent pretty lengthy article in our newspaper was examining this, and the consensus agrees with you. The Miami developers are quoting crazy numbers when they refer to the visitors they’ll steal from Las Vegas. The same point as yours was also made: Las Vegas isn’t just about gambling. It is the excitement of the entire destination!

Don’t get me wrong: People from the east will take the shorter flight for a quick Miami vacation that involves gambling. But most likely not as a replacement to their Vegas trips.

Unless or until Miami or Cuba builds their own version of the Las Vegas strip with miles of gaming resorts, single casinos in various locals a round the country just wet people’s appetite for Las Vegas. I hate to sound like a broken record, but we’re on pace to tie the record for visitors this year and pass it next year. That’s not exactly a sign that other gaming destinations are keeping people away!

Just back from a two-night, three-day stay in Vegas, our first trip to Sin City in two years. We stayed at MGM Grand. No room matching our reservation for non-smoking and one king-size bed was ready upon our arrival, and my wife wasn’t feeling well after the flight, so we had to spend an hour in a bar waiting for a room (our paperwork, by the way, guaranteed our room by 3 p.m., but we didn’t get ours until 4 p.m.). After that, though, we had a great trip, with time poolside, a nice first-day hit at video poker, and an outing to Fremont Street.

My wife had never been to Fremont Street; I’d seen the same shows there a few times and would have skipped it myself. However, the new (to me) Fremont Street Experience shows (we saw the “American Pie” and “Tribute to Queen” shows, plus one more) were a pleasant surprise to me, so we both enjoyed the outing.

During our stay, we enjoyed fine meals at the Wolfgang Puck and Diego at MGM, and a nice lunch at an outdoor table at Trader Vic’s at Planet Hollywood. We thought we’d have a nice view of the Bellagio fountains there, but the view is better from the outdoor tables at Mon Ami Gabi at Paris.

We were very impressed by our first visit to Planet Hollywood. I’d never been impressed by the former Aladdin, but very much like what they’ve done with the place. I spent some time at the Planet Hollywood sports book and found it to be comfortable, with a nice variety of big TVs for football.

The only show we saw on this trip was “Zumanity”, which we thought was great. We hadn’t known about the comic relief in this show, and that really added to our enjoyment of the show. Maybe we just got lucky, but the audience members roped into the show were cooperative and funny…I imagine not everyone would be!

One final point about a merchant we’ve come to feel offers unique, beautiful jewelry at reasonable prices and with unmatched service: Bernard Passman’s black coral jewelry store at Venetian. On top of what I’ve just said, I can add that they stand by the quality of their jewelry without hesitation.

I enjoy the newsletter and look forward to each issue; I also look forward to returning to Vegas sooner next time, as our package at MGM included an airfare credit for our next trip!

Scott from Dimondale, MI

 

Ted Responds:

First of all, I need to note that we just found a bunch of great trip reports from 2008 that got orphaned in our system. This was one of them. Over time, we’ll be running those which are still relevant.

When you have issues with a property, I still highly recommend sending a polite but pointed snail mail to the hotel in question. I realize that complaining on social media is becoming more popular, but the ease of it often makes business more dismissive of it. For a long time I remember Wynn’s Twitter feed getting filled with complaints. And the response to each was “call us”. I mean… they can’t very well fix things over Twitter (or even Facebook). Do one better and write them and you might be surprised at how they’ll work to make it up to you!

Membership Update – We’re a few weeks away from going to a paid subscriber model for the newsletter. Unquestionably, our information and advice improves your Las Vegas vacations. When you know what is happening, where the deals are, how not to get ripped off and similar, you maximize the time you have here (which doesn’t come cheap when you factor in air and hotel costs).áThe price will be less than $2 a month ($23.95 per year). That’s less than the price of a soda and candy bar at your local mini-mart.

Why this change when we’ve been free for so long? Simple: When I started in 1999, there really wasn’t that much Vegas news to sift through (and the newsletter was much shorter). Over the years, the time it takes to read all the papers, magazines, blogs, news feeds, press releases and similar and distill it all for you has grown intense.

AccessVegas.com has suffered because of our attention to the newsletter. (For example, we just finally got a mobile version going, something we should have done two years ago). While we keep the site updated, the look and usability if more 1997 (when we launched) then 2011. We can’t do a really great job at both the site and newsletter with present staffing, and the site is our flagship.

This left me with two options:

1. I could radically reduce the scope of the newsletter and quit writing my parts so I can work on the revitalization of Access Vegas. You can get generic Vegas news from a million places now (if you have a zillion hours of free time on your hands each week to sift through it all). But, your feedback indicates that the key reasons you read are for my sections and because we distill down to all the important info. Or…

2. We can ask everyone to pitch in a couple of lousy dollars per month and not only continue what we do, but expand on it with special “members only” features we’d like to add over the course of the next year. We’d like to better address many of the common questions you have (which takes research time).áWe have a killer idea for a specialized app that will save you tons while you are in town. It will be free to paid subscribers. (If you aren’t an app type of person, you’ll have access to the information online in a members area so you can print it out and bring it along, or surf it on your phone or iPad).

We’ll also promise a personal response when a paid subscriber writes us with a Vegas question, which we don’t have the staff to do now (especially on stuff that has to be researched). We have the connections to get the right answers on stuff we don’t know off the top of our head. But not always the time to do so.

Hence, we’re going with option #2. We love helping you guys out. We just need a little help from you to do it properly.

Thanks in advance for your support!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

 

 

 

 

 

 

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 30, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – I’m not going to lie. The weather sucks. Wednesday evening saw tropical storm gusts of wind, clouds and a healthy dose of rain. The same storm trashed Los Angeles. And… the 10 day forecast shows temps in the 50’s. At least sun returns for all of next week!

So Long, Western – At least for a while. The infamous Western Motel/Casino closes the doors in January after 41 years of service. Located on East Fremont Street (four blocks from the Fremont Street Experience), the renewal overtaking downtown hasn’t quite made it that far yet and the neighborhood is lacking in not just population, but population with disposable income. Despite the best efforts of Metro (Las Vegas police), that part of Fremont Street is still considered a bad neighborhood. The property has been grinding it out with super cheap food and drink, plus really low limit play and just isn’t currently economically viable.

I’m intimately familiar with the property from back in the 90’s. A downtown trip for me would include parking at The Plaza, full pay 9/6 Jacks or better video poker (also at The Plaza), drinking my way all the way up to the El Cortez for 25 cent craps, a walk to The Western for $1 blackjack, and then hitting Binion’s for the late night $1.99 complete steak dinner.

Don’t expect it to be closed forever. Downtown has been undergoing a gentrification and not just with condo towers, Zappos, and the Performing Arts Center. A couple of quaint old neighborhoods in that general area are also seeing revitalization as young professionals pick the homes up cheap and make them nice again. Downtown is becoming “cool” again. I expect to see a serious remodel of the property (including re-opening the lodging portion) by 2015 as the average income for the area rises people get more comfortable with their safety on East Fremont.

We’re In The Wrong Time Zone! I’ve been saying this for almost as long as I’ve been living here. In Las Vegas, it is pretty much completely dark by 5 PM for three months of the year. This item has come into the spotlight with an article by local writer David McGrath Schwartz: Is switching time zones a bright idea for Nevada? Wouldn’t it make sense to give our visitors an extra hour of light and warmth? Read my latest blog post Is Las Vegas In The Wrong Time Zone? and give us your comments!

Not The Best Month For Elvis – In two pieces of unrelated news (except for the Elvis theme)…

  • Cirque’s Viva Elvis at Aria is closing next year. After recent announcements of retooling, they’ve decided to trash it. Elvis will leave Aria in 2012. We’ve actually had about a 90% good response rate from those of you who have seen the show. But similar to Cirque’s Beatle-themed Love show, it appealed more to Elvis fans and not so much to traditional Cirque fans. No news of a replacement yet, but they really need to make it a spectacular draw. People who stay at Aria (or just about anywhere in CityCenter) absolutely love it. Those who don’t seem to resoundingly note that it isn’t worth the hike for repeated visits.

    I myself am pretty surprised that they didn’t plan in some sort of tram or moving walkway to get people into CityCenter from The Strip. I’m sure that the intention was to get everybody walking through Crystals (the mall). But unless you are well into the top tax bracket, you could find Crystals more intimidating than fascinating and may set a negative mood for your Aria experience. Perhaps once they get rid of The Harmon, they can find a way to mitigate this issue.

  • Elvis’ big Las Vegas run was at The International, which is now known as the Las Vegas Hilton. But not for long. Hilton Hotels decided to not renew the agreement to stick their name on the famed Las Vegas property. The hotel will temporarily be known as LVH (standing for Las Vegas Hotel, but no doubt a play on the soon-to-be former name). Odds are that once they figure out who owns the joint (the bankruptcy is in court), odds are the new owners will give it a permanent new name. They could go back and call it The International, but today there is some rule that you need to give hotels a trendy, unpronounceable name. We’ll let you know when we know.

American Chopper Live – I’ll be honest. I didn’t know this show was still on the air (as I watched it years ago). Paul Teutul, Senior and Paul Teutul, Junior are going up against both each other and infamous bike builder Jesse James in a competition airing live from the Hard Rock Las Vegas. Catch it Dec. 5 and 6 at 9 PM ET/PT on The Discovery Channel.

More Details About Fitzgerald’s – We’ve found out that the Vintage Vegas look Fitzgeralds will be giving their upstairs casino will feature a lot of wood and a darker atmosphere. Think old school steak house. They are also planning on wrapping the Vue Bar all the way around the front of the building (another great idea given the success of Golden Nugget’s Gold Diggers bar).

Additionally, they will run escalators from the street level outdoors to the second floor (a completely unnecessary idea given that their upstairs gaming area is usually busy anyway). Hopefully, those escalators will work more often than the ones of the Strip pedestrian flyovers do.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

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Due to pending show closures and changes, we have space available for the first time in years. Because of our reasonable rates, it is sure to go quickly. Please contact us at AccessVegas@accessvegas.com today!

Mean Mr. Grinch Out To Steal Christmas at Bellagio – Holiday treats large and small on display at Jean Philippe Patisserie – This Christmas, Mr. Grinch leaves his perch on Mount Crumpit to look for mischief at Bellagio’s Jean Philippe Patisserie. More than a month in the making, the infamous Dr. Seuss character was brought to life using 50 pounds of chocolate and 112 pounds of fondant.

Hard Rock Hotel Spreads Holiday Cheer with Festive Fare and Cocktails – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino gets in the holiday spirit and invites guests to celebrate the season with limited-time menus at the entertainment destination’s popular restaurants û 35 Steaks + Martinis, Johnny Smalls, Pink Taco, LTO Pizza & More and Mr. Lucky’s Cafe. Special food offerings are available on Christmas Eve, Saturday, Dec. 24 and Christmas Day, Sunday, Dec. 25. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino sweetens the season with a little sugar and spice by offering the Santa’s Helper Martini as well as the Drunken Elf on Tuesday, Dec. 13 through Christmas, Sunday, Dec. 25.

Fantasy Closes 2011 With Amber As December’s Showgirl Of The Month – Heating up December is Amber, FANTASY’s ”Showgirl of the Month.” The sexy, adult revue at Luxor recognizes one of its stars each month in conjunction with its 2011 calendar. This gorgeous, red-headed Dallas native grew up idolizing the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders before becoming one herself. In addition to dancing, Amber loves to travel and discover new adventures. She traveled north to Alaska to climb a glacier, south to Bora Bora to swim with sharks and has flown across the globe to skydive in New Zealand.

Wolfgang Puck’s Lupo Debuts New Menu In Honor Of Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour At Mandalay Bay – To celebrate the arrival of ”Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour” by Cirque du Soleil, Wolfgang Puck’s Lupo will offer a new pre and post-theatre menu, in addition to its a la carte menu. Available all evening on show nights, guests will have a choice between a three-course menu for $55 per person and a four-course menu for $75 per person (not including beverage, tax and gratuity).

Flamingo To Reveal More Than 2,300 Fresh New Rooms – Stylish FAB rooms on-sale now, first guest arrivals January 2, 2012 – Flamingo has announced plans to refurbish 2,307 hotel rooms transforming the resort’s standard rooms into stylish and contemporary accommodations. The all-new FAB rooms are on-sale now for guest arrivals beginning January 2, 2012.

McFadden’s Hosts December Birthday Blowout – December Birthdays Drink Free – No one wants to party alone on their birthday, that’s why McFadden’s at the Rio (click link to book) will throw a giant merriment celebration for all December birthdays on Saturday, Dec. 17. The Irish party bar will dedicate the night to those born in December with a joyous birthday blowout.

Tropicana Presents iCandy Burlesque – A Unique Entertainment And Gaming Experience – Sexy New Experience Spotlights Beautiful Dancers, Singers, Unique Performances And Stunning Costumes – Tropicana presents iCandy Burlesque, a one-of-a- kind, sexy new experience which will take audiences on a wild ride with talented performances, heart-pounding music and stunning costumes.

Free Cocktail Walk and Holiday Fireworks Show This Weekend at MonteLago Christmas Village at Lake Las Vegas – MonteLago Christmas Village at Lake Las Vegas kicks-off a big Holiday Celebration this weekend with a free specialty holiday cocktail tasting for adults along with Carolers, Santa, Ice Skating and a Fireworks show. On Friday, Dec. 2nd, from 5-9 pm, the restaurants of MonteLago Christmas Village will provide free tastings of their very special holiday cocktails that have been custom-created just for the ”Spirits of Christmas” Cocktail Walk.

McFadden’s Celebrates Santa’s List Day with Naughty and Nice Drink Specials – He’s making a list, and checking it twice and McFadden’s at The Rio is going to find out who is naughty or nice. Sunday, Dec. 4, the rowdy Irish hot spot will celebrate Santa’s List Day with drink specials for patrons from each side of Mr. Claus’ list. In honor of this pre-holiday celebration, McFadden’s is offering drink specials to correspond with partygoer’s behavior from the past year. Disobedient patrons who check in under the naughty list will receive $20 bottomless beers throughout the evening. Guests who claim to be on the nice list will enjoy $4 well drinks from 10 p.m. until close. Plus, all guests, both naughty and nice, will receive $5 bombs.

First Food and Bar Hosts A Month Of Holiday Themed Activities And Winter Traditions At Venetian And Palazzo – Food And Drink Specials, Children’s Activities And More Surround Winter In Venice – Known for their creative, fun and approachable-for-all menu and special events, the team at FIRST Food & Bar announces a month of celebration for the holidays, including food and drink specials, kids activities and holiday traditions! The celebration will take place during The Venetian and The Palazzo’s Winter in Venice which now runs through Jan. 8 featuring 49 days of holiday festivities throughout both resorts.

Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Transforms into Shimmering Winter Wonderland on Dec. 2 – Transforming into a magical winter wonderland, Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens unveils its spectacular holiday display, rich in tradition and filled with picture-perfect botanical creations, on Dec 2. In the center of it all, a magnificent holiday tree will stand tall sending gazes soaring while musical sounds and seasonal colors evoke the holiday spirit.

Maverick Canyon Dream Air and Land - Plane and HelicopterCanyon Dream Air and Land Tour û A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Canyon Dream Air and Land TouráNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Sirens of TI – Chances are you’re one of the ten million people who have seen Sirens of TI or maybe you’ve just simply driven past ità itÆs the acrobatic water show at the front entrance of Treasure Island Hotel and Casino… but this video crew was granted access for this rare behind the scenes look at a day in the life of those fearless pirates at TIà preparing to put on a great show for you!
  • Dining At The Heart Attack Grill – When visiting Las Vegas, if you are prepared to gamble with your health as well as your hard earned cash, there’s no better place than the Heart Attack Grill. Choose between the triple or quadruple bypass burger. If you manage to eat it all, one of the charming ‘nurses’ will assist you when you leave the premises.
  • Fig and Pomegranate Highball – Wynn Las Vegas mixologist Patricia Richards shows us how to shake up our holidays with a festive Fall cocktail. Stir up a little taste of Vegas at your holiday party!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just come back from Vegas yesterday after spending 10 days there. This was 5th time over the last few years.

Had an excellent time BUT was plagued by time share reps to the point where they was running after us ( husband and I). I tried everything from politely saying no to ignoring them . Nothing worked!!!!!! They were more of a nuisance than the sex card workers. Can you give advice please for when we come again.

We stayed at the Hilton Paradise Road. The taxi that took us back to the airport charged over 20 dollars and did not by any means go the quickest way.He turned onto the strip at Circus Circus and went the whole length of the strip!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Refused to tip him saying he had not chosen the quickest route. He then got very abusive. Can I ask for your advice about this 20 dollars, we usually pay 15 dollars.

Love Access Vegas!

Angela M.

Ted Responds:

Great letter and something that needs to be addressed. Yes, you were long-hauled. I went ahead and wrote and entire blog post about what to do when this happens to you. You can fight back (and it only takes a few minutes of your time). You don’t have to put up with the abuse. And you’ll often not only get your satisfaction but the taxi ride will end up being free.

I’ll also address the timeshare peddler issue.

Click to read my post Las Vegas Taxi Took Me The Wrong Way To Airport, What To Do?

In fact, this is information that every single Las Vegas visitor should read. If you belong to other Las Vegas groups, forums, or just tweet about your love of Vegas, you can use the short URL http://x.co/bL1t to link to the post.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 23, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Happy Thanksgiving to all of our U.S. readers. To the approximately 30% of our readers outside our country, have a turkey sandwich and find something to be thankful for. I’m thankful that we’ve avoided any nasty cold snaps this fall and will be flirting with 70 degrees at the beginning of next week.

Contrary to popular opinion, Thanksgiving is actually one of the most busy times of the year here. Some come for the four day weekend (and truckloads of sports wagering). Others come because it is a great place to gather far-flung family.

Let’s face it: The town you grew up in may be nice for a couple of days, but you are climbing the wall by Saturday (after Thanksgiving). In Las Vegas, everybody can do what they like and you can still get together for certain meals and activities with your extended family. And… virtually every single restaurant at every hotel (including the buffets) puts on a Thanksgiving feast. Something to keep in mind for next year!

No New Hotels, But You Still Keep Visiting – It has been a pretty slow week (and a slow year) for Las Vegas news compared to the boom times when new hotel announcements and openings regularly fueled Las Vegas interest. And yet we’re on pace to tie the 2007 record for visitor numbers. (Side Note: Am I the only one noticing that? It seems like no one else is making a big deal out of it but at the end of the day, that is pretty amazing statistic given the economy).

I think this harkens back to something I’ve always noted: When first-time visitors write and ask what they should do and see, I simply tell them that if they came here for two months, they wouldn’t be able to do and see everything. Enjoy yourself, since you’ll most likely be back. Many times. Think about it: If you had two months in Las Vegas and an unlimited budget, you’d have to treat it like a full-time job to attempt to do everything you’d want to do and see. All of those shows, all of the great restaurants, activities and sight-seeing, visiting every single hotel… it is mind-boggling.

Then, let’s get into tours. I’m always amazed when frequent visitors go I don’t need to see the Grand Canyon. I saw it from the plane flying in. Um… that is like going to an art gallery to see a masterpiece, viewing it from all the way across the room, and being satisfied. You don’t know how jaw-dropping it is until you stand on the edge of it.

Same with Hoover Dam, which is a stunning work of art and on a scale/size/scope that is mind-bending. I could go on and on (Red Rock Canyon, Valley Of Fire, Death Valley, Zion, “wild west” equestrian and dude ranchs, off-road adventures you name it). Just go look at our tours page and scroll and scroll and scroll. In fact, if the numb-brains over at the Convention Authority sobered up long enough to have some good ideas, they’d build a ad campaign just around how scenic our area is.

If you are a regular visitor who has never gotten your behind away from the touristy areas, let me suggest a simple and inexpensive itinerary to help you get your feet wet:

Rent a car for the day. Trust me, it is cheaper than playing the machines. Many hotels have car rental desks. I know that Hertz at The Flamingo actually keeps their rental fleet in the Flamingo parking garage (and you don’t have to pay the airport rental lot taxes). Head out to Red Rock Canyon and enjoy the 13 mile scenic loop at the state park. Doing this in the mid-late morning will provide the sun angle that really brings these colorful mountains to life.

Continue on around the Highway 159 loop to Bonnie Springs Old Nevada. Purported to be an actual stop on the old Spanish Trail, this rustic but working wild westá is a fun respite the whiz-bang of The Strip.

By now, you are probably hungry. And you’ve always wanted to visit the M Resort after all the great things you’ve heard about. Kill two birds with one stone by having the lunch buffet at The M. It always garners raves, and you’ll be amazed at how nice an off-Strip property can be.

Continue on to Hoover Dam. There isn’t much to say about this that hasn’t been said. Historical structure, featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials. Take the full tour that takes you into the bowels of the dam. There is truly nothing like it, from the sheer technical complexity to the retro-cool 1930’s architecture.

One of the most memorable parts for me? Walking through a tunnel that leads you to the very face of the dam, high above the Colorado River. Someone posted that segment (of their tour) on YouTube here: Inside Hoover Dam (Tunnel). Finally, if my directions are confusing, I mapped the entire trip described above on Google Maps.

Last Chance To See The Lion King – After a great run, the Las Vegas’ The Lion King show comes to an end at the end of the year. This spectacle is great for adults and kids alike. You can get tickets direct through their site by clicking on The Lion King graphic in the right sidebar.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Octavius Tower At Caesars Palace Brings 450 New Jobs To Las Vegas Market – Caesars Palace has announced it will hire a total of 450 employees with the opening of Octavius Tower on January 2, 2012. The resort’s sixth hotel tower will yield 3,960 total accommodations, bringing hundreds of new jobs to the Las Vegas market.

Joe Montana Visits Memorabilia International at Miracle Mile Shops Dec. 3 – Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana will visit Memorabilia International inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for a live autograph signing from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Marlon, Jackie and Tito Jackson to Appear at Michael Jackson Fan Fest in Las Vegas on December 4 – The first ever Estate-authorized Michael Jackson Fan Fest will now offer visitors a more in-depth look into Michael Jackson’s life, featuring an opportunity to meet three of Michael Jackson’s brothers, Marlon, Jackie and Tito Jackson, for one day only. The three brothers will be at Fan Fest on Sunday, December 4, beginning at noon for an exclusive Q & A session for fans at the exhibition.

Legends In Concert At Harrah’s Las Vegas – Tribute Artist Show Announces Holiday Lineup – Legends in Concert at Harrah’s Las Vegas offers holiday-themed performances Nov. 25 û Dec. 25 with special acts Toby Keith, Elvis Presley, Carrie Underwood, Donna Summer, Michael Jackson and Whoopi Goldberg as emcee. Guests can expect holiday favorites from this legendary lineup including ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,’ ‘I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,’ ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ and an impressive grand finale. Featuring live re-creations of superstars of yesterday and today, backed by a live rockin’ band and the Legends singers and dancers, Legends in Concert is a one-of-a-kind experience.

Rockhouse Parties For National Finals Rodeo – Rockhouse Offers NFR Promotions December 1-10 – National Finals Rodeo is back and so is Rockhouse Bar & Nightclub’s 10-day party. With the fans in town, the ultra-dive bar will rock the rodeo welcoming NFR fans from across the nation. From Thursday, Dec. 1, through Saturday, Dec. 10, a ticket stub will not only get the cowboy devotees some rowdy rodeo fun, but also complimentary entry and $5 shots.

Sammy Hagar Dines at his Cabo Wabo Cantina at Miracle Mile Shops – The Red Rocker himself, Sammy Hagar, enjoyed lunch at his Cabo Wabo Cantina (www.CaboWaboCantina.com) at the Miracle Mile Shops inside Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on November 16th with his wife and friends. The table of eight munched on several savory selections including ceviche, lobster enchiladas and lobster taquitos. The energetic group enjoyed the crisp afternoon on the patio for more than two hours, people watching and sipping on refreshing ice teas.

The Mirage Reveals innovative new cocktail program now being served throughout the Resort – The Mirage recently unveiled an exciting beverage program featuring 30 intriguing cocktails. Careful thought went into each distinctive new drink resulting in stimulating flavor combinations, remarkable twists on old favorites and inventive garnishes which add striking detail to each libation.

Former ‘Happiest Mayor in the World,’ Oscar Goodman, to star in new Las Vegas-based television show – Fresh off his appearance in the network television series, ”CSI: Las Vegas,” former mayor and Las Vegas icon, Oscar Goodman, is set to film the pilot for a new, Las Vegas-based courtroom show, ”Vegas Night Court with Oscar Goodman.” Filming for ”Vegas Night Court with Oscar Goodman” will take place inside the legendary Elvis Presley Showroom at the Las Vegas Hilton, beginning Friday, Nov. 18.

Wind Dancer Sunset Landing TourGrand Canyon Western Territory Tour û Birds eye view of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam. Get a close look at the extinct volcano Fortification Hill. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Descend deep into the Grand Canyon and land on the Hualapai Indian territory on the canyon floor for a champagne toast, beverages and hors d’ oeuvres in the heart of this spectacular wonder of the world.

Click To Book Wind Dancer Sunset Landing Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Nevada State Railroad Museum – The railroads here in Nevada played a very important part in Las Vegas’ history. You can head out to the Nevada State Railroad Museum in Boulder City and ride the same tracks, and maybe even the same trains, that helped service the Hoover Dam project in the 1930s.
  • Las Vegas Blvd At Night – A couple of weeks ago, we gave you a time-lapse of what it was like to drive from downtown all the way down The Strip in the daytime. Now see the reverse journey at night. This is as close as you are going to get without being here yourself. If you are missing the Vegas vibe, here it is!
  • Caesars Palace Serendipity 3 Finlandia Cocktail – Bartenders from all over the world compete every year for the title of World’s Greatest Mixologist in the Finlandia World Cup. This year, Serendipity 3’s bartender, Raul Faria is in the running to represent the USA with his Finlandia Vodka cocktail the Spiced Trade.
  • Red Rock Casino to Blue Diamond Rd Time Lapse Drive – Most of you visit and never see anything but The Strip and maybe downtown. Enjoy this time lapse video which takes you around the loop through some of the most spectacular scenery in our area. Notice how quickly one goes from being in the ‘city’ to rustic, mountainous wildlife areas. Non-stop, the entire drive takes about 1 hour, 15 minutes from The Strip, around, and back again. See a Google Map view of this route.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Thanks for all the work you and your staff do through both your weekly newsletter and the accessvegas.com website in keeping everyone informed about what’s happening in Vegas! I’m always referring friends and family to the site when they tell me they’re planning a trip to Sin City.

I was in Vegas the first week of Oct and have to share with you and your readers how “top notch” the service industry is in Vegas. EVERYWHERE I went the service staff (valets, hosts/hostesses, waitstaff, restaurant/buffet staff, casino staff, hotel staff, etc) was so warm, friendly, courteous, conscientious, and professional! They made this “regular guy” feel like a VIP – which in turn made my vacation all the more pleasant!

I took your advice about spending time in Downtown to gamble – and had a great time! And I always use your list of Vegas Attractions (especially all the free attractions!) when planning my trips.

Sure hope one of those venture capitalists heed your suggestion about completing work on the dormant Fountain Bleu construction project!

Please keep up the good work!!

Rob S. from Toledo, OH

Ted Responds:

Glad you had a great trip. Fortunately, some of the poor customer service issues that were prevalent a couple years ago have been given proper attention. In a town with nearly 14% unemployment, there is no excuse for half-baked service. (Actually, there is never any excuse. But shouldn’t these people be happy to have jobs and grateful to every one of our visitors)?

Still plenty of rumor swirling that Fontainebleau is going to be dismantled. But I’m no longer so sure. The national recession is getting better, Vegas visitor numbers are around record levels, higher-end visitation is up (the group that F-bleau would be aimed at), and there will be a tipping point where finishing the property pencils out. But probably still not until a record 2012 is in the books. And even with financing, the hotel is largely unfinished inside so you’d still be talking about significant construction time. Plus, the investors are tied up in court playing the blame game and that could take a while to figure out.

If the economy still stays soft, I hear the price of steel would almost make it worth tearing down (as opposed to the cost of finishing the project).

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 9, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! We’re on the eastern edge of our time zone (Pacific Time), which means the sun sets extra early. Especially as we get towards the end of the year. The good news? The Strip lights up earlier and you get more time in the neon glow. I always love the “golden hour” when the sun is just setting behind the mountains and The Strip starts to glow.

It is still warm enough to spend some quality time outdoors in the evening (with a light jacket) and virtually all of the outdoor restaurants and bars have heat lamps going to keep you toasty while you dine. Keep in mind that while we get plenty of sunshine, December and January temperatures average 57 degrees. And while it has been known to hit 70 on select winter days, the high has also been known to top out in the 40’s. Pack accordingly!

Wild Finish To World Series Of Poker – I’m not much of a baseball fan. Or a poker fan. But when it comes to the finals of either, I’m “all in” watching. Our congratulations go out to 22 year old Pius Heinz from Germany, who after a grueling 6.5 hours came storming back from a pretty serious deficit to win the the $8.7 million dollar prize. And major kudos to those of you who live on the east coast and stayed up until 3:30 AM Eastern to watch the final result live (technically a 15 minute delay to protect players hands).

A “Bad Beat” goes to the cocktail waitress at the locals casino that we were sitting and watching the event at. She wasn’t following it that night, and when she looked up at the TV, she recognized Heinz and noted that she and her friends had actually met him at a Halloween party just a couple of weeks ago and even had a picture with him on her Facebook page. She said “I should have given him my phone number!”

Circus Circus Adventuredome And Sirens Of TI – I guested via phone on the most recent episode of Living In Las Vegas (click to watch). Hosts Scott and Melissa Whitney did a great segment (with photos and video) on Adventuredome and then I came on and told you the special tips you need to know to fully see and enjoy the Treasure Island Pirate Show.

Strike In 2012? – Many of the union contracts with the major Strip hotels run out this coming June. Negotiations will be interesting to watch. During the last round, the economy was hot and my understanding is that the hotels generally gave the unions everything they wanted.

With a still soft economy and the gaming properties carrying crushing debt loads (combined with the extremely high local unemployment), it will be interesting to see how things go. Do the hotels hold a hard line and risk a strike? If so, how long do they hold out and what will it do to visitation and the visitor experience? How hard it is to hire and train a new hotel staff and what kind of rift would that create in our community? As always, we’ll keep you updated.

Party Like It’s 1998 – Las Vegas home prices have continued to slide. First, they had slid to 2004 levels. Then we heard 2000. Then 1999. Now at 1998 prices, that is nearly 60% off of the 2006 highs. The average Las Vegas home is selling for under $125,000 with no end to pending foreclosures. Investors are snapping them up. You can buy a home for as little as $60k, put a few thousand into fixing it up, and then rent it out for $1000 a month. Do the math on that! If you need a reference for a good Realtor or property management company, I know good ones. Use our contact info later in the newsletter.

Good Luck Miami – Those looking to develop a huge gaming/hotel/condo property (similar to CityCenter) in Miami are touting that they will siphon 1/3 of east coast residents who now visit Las Vegas, putting an approximately 4 million visitor dent in Sin City. No one is going to argue that the flight will be shorter and Miami does have the beach. However, Atlantis resort (a huge gaming resort) has been over in The Bahamas for decades without putting a dent in Las Vegas. If anything, Foxwoods (CT) style resorts just seem to fuel people’s desires to visit Las Vegas. Remember, we’re on track to tie the visitor numbers record this year. And probably smash it in 2012. Are these Miami developers the same people behind the Desert Xpress? Speaking of…

It Really Might Be A Train To Nowhere – The push to build the Desert Xpress high-speed train from Las Vegas to Victorville moves forward. However,á California is having problems finding the private side of the investment needed to build their grand high-speed rail plans. (Federal money will be involved, but bonds will be needed to cover much of the entire cost).

Why does this matter? The Desert Xpress is counting in connecting with the California lines to provide service the rest of the way from Victorville on through Palmdale and into Los Angeles. I’m all for getting people to Las Vegas quickly and easily. However, I’m not for building another “monorail” type failure. Just as the success of the Desert Xpress hinges on the Victorville connection, the success of the monorail hinged on an airport connection. How did that work out?

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

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Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

National Finals Tonight and Gary Leffew’s Legendary Buck’n Ball Anchor Boyd Gaming’s Entertainment Offerings During the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo – December 1-10 – The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (click link to book) is one of the largest and most revered annual rodeos in the country. And once again, Boyd Gaming will be bringing the biggest names in rodeo and entertainment to its Las Vegas Valley properties during the 2011 WNFR, including the return of National Finals Tonight, and World Champion Bull Rider Gary Leffew’s Legendary Buck’n Ball at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino.

Grammy-Nominated and platinum Recording Artist Jordin Sparks Will Kick Off Winter In Venice At The Venetian and the Palazzo – The ”American Idol” winner will perform live on the Las Vegas Strip on Nov. 21 – The Venetian and The Palazzo (click link to book) Las Vegas are thrilled to announce Grammy-nominated and platinum recording artist, Jordin Sparks, will perform live during the kick-off ceremony for Winter in Venice, the first true celebration of the holiday season on the Las Vegas Strip.

Cabo Wabo Cantina Gives Thanks To Football on Black Friday – Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend with Mexican Food, Football, Beer and Shopping – Cabo Wabo Cantina invites football fans to give thanks to the greatest sport on Earth and celebrate with cold beer, tasty Mexican food and tons of football. On Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 24, and Black Friday, Nov. 25, Sammy Hagar’s rockin’ cantina will be the best spot on the Strip to celebrate the nation’s November traditions.

Roll Into The Holiday Season At Rice And Company – ”Santa’s Roll” and ”Roll in the New Year” debut just in time for the season – Danny Chen, Executive Chef of the Far East Asian bistro Rice & Company (click link for more info), brings his Christmas spirit and New Year’s revelry this season with the introduction of his newest sushi creations, ”Santa’s Roll” and ”Roll in the New Year” at Luxor Hotel and Casino.

Tweet Away Every Sunday Funday At Rockhouse For A Cheap Open Bar – Tweet your way to a great deal for Sunday Funday. All followers of theiráTwitter handle will receive an even cheaper open bar package from 9 p.m. to midnight.

The Venetian And The Palazzo Welcome The Fourth Annual Carnival Of Cuisine Event On Dec. 10 – Culinary festival features renowned cuisine from over 15 celebrated restaurants – The Venetian and The Palazzo (click link to book) welcome the return of the hottest culinary event this fall with their fourth annual food festival, Carnival of Cuisine. The event will take place Saturday, Dec. 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. in The Palazzo Ballroom and will showcase award-winning cuisine available exclusively at restaurants of The Venetian and The Palazzo.

Indian Territory Grand Canyon TourIndian Territory Grand Canyon Tour û Landing tour with champagne, beverages and a light snack! This exciting tour begins by flying over the beautiful Lake Las Vegas, Lake Mead, the world famous Hoover dam and Fortification Hill, an extinct volcano. View the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of the southwest along the way. Maverick Helicopters will descend and land in the Hualapai Indian Territory 3,500 feet into the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Indian Territory
Grand Canyon Tour áNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Vegas Lady Luck hotel becomes Downtown Grand – Downtown Grand isn’t the first name bestowed on the property at Stewart Avenue and Third Street, but owners are hoping it sticks. What was once Honest John’s, Park Plaza and, most recently, the Lady Luck will henceforth be known as Downtown Grand. The renaming came at a Thursday ceremony where the public watched a crane lift the historic Lady Luck neon sign from one of the property’s hotel towers. Read More…
  • Los Angeles To Las Vegas – time lapsed – Many of you fly in. If you’ve ever wondered what it is like for the 60% of Vegas Visitors who drive in, enjoy this time-lapse video of a road trip from Los Angeles to Sin City.
  • Backstage at Divas Las Vegas – By now, I’m sure you’ve all heard the name, Frank Marino. He is the longest running headliner EVER on the strip. He’s funny, talented, quick witted, and looks absolutely “fabulous” as Joan Rivers in his Bob Mackie gowns and Manolos… And recently, Frank allowed the crew backstage at his newest show, ”Divas Las Vegas.”
    Book Now and Save: Frank Marino’s Divas Las Vegas

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Great newsletter, thanks. If you decide to charge a fee, count me in.

Question, I’m coming to Las Vegas mid November and staying at the Aria for the first time. Other than trying the twenty dollar upgrade trick what floor or above should I request to get a decent room?

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the support. It will really help us to provide more in-depth info from tracking various specials to offering more in-depth hotel info. We plan to send someone to do a couple of days at every single hotel and take some sharp notes to better help people with questions like yours. Right now, we simply don’t have the budget for it.

Aria is tricky because it sits in the CityCenter complex and I honestly don’t know what sections of the property offer a better view. I do know that others have noted an issue getting a view because of how everything is boxed in there.

Everybody LOVES the rooms. All positive comments there since they have opened.

Keep these things in mind:

1. The club at Cosmo plays “thump thump” music that is audible in some Aria rooms into the very late night.

2. Walk from room to elevator can be long if your room is out toward the edges. (Sister property MGM gets the same complaint).

Don’t know if either of those are important, but doing the $20 trick don’t be scared to make a couple of moderate requests.

My husband and I are planning a trip to Las Vegas . We have a time share that we visit every year. My husband recently had achilles tendon surgery and is in a special “boot” with no weight bearing. He is mostly in a wheelchair (non motorized) and crutches. The resort is no problem but we are wondering about handicap access on the strip, in the casinos and restaurants. Postponing the trip is possible with the typical airline penalty but I also have tickets to Rod Stewart. What do you suggest?

Thank you,

Nancy LaBelle

Ted Responds:

The Americans With Disabilities Act mandates that just about any business open to the public absolutely must be accessible to wheelchairs. Also, the business on The Strip want your business and realize that not everyone is mobile!

I would show up early for the concert, go to the box office, and note that one of your party isn’t mobile if he can’t maneuver through an auditorium on foot. They should be able to accommodate you, although it might be in a somewhat different part of the venue than your tickets are in. Do not fear: Wheelchair areas generally are not “bad seats”.

I love receiving the newsletter and I know a lot of work goes into it and I really appreciate it.

I just returned from a 2 week visit to Sin City (stayed at the Flamingo-over 25 consecutive years) and the weather was great.

My question is a simple one. I heard that Lynyrd Skynyrd was opening a barbecue restaurant somewhere on the Las Vegas strip. Can you tell me where and when?

Thanks!!!!

Jeff Cohen

I need to note that Jeff’s letter came in a while ago. We’re doing our best to work though them.

For the “Simple Man who say “Gimme Three Steps” to the door, we indeed have info on the pending opening linked at Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ and Beer To Rock Las Vegas Strip With The SouthÆs Best Barbecue, RockinÆ Bar Scene

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe November 2, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! Well… summer ended. In a matter of a couple weeks, we went from these glorious days in the high 70’s and 80’s with warm evenings to temps that are barely reaching 60 and downright cold overnights. Is it March yet? Hey, at least we didn’t get dumped with two feet of snow. To those in the Northeast U.S. who did, we hope that you’ve been able to dig out and that your power wasn’t off for too long.

Rebirth Of The Sahara – Sahara owners SBE Entertainment went before the county and got permission for major renovations to the property. Side Note: There was no way they were going to implode it despite so many people saying that the building was too old to refurbish. You can gut and refurbish and old house just as well as an old hotel. In fact, it might make a good documentary. Rebuilding would cost billions. Anyway…

They are going to renovate the towers top-to-bottom, renovate the gaming space, and rip out the roller coaster, which will probably be sold and put into use somewhere else. (I think i would be a great downtown attraction). No word on how much they are going to spend and I’m guessing that the Sahara name will go bye-bye. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have sold off just about everything related to the property.

We do have a clue that they are holding to their original intentions to make the property a “boutique” upscale hotel (read: trendy and expensive). How do we know? They noted plans to put in a brand new pool area and 21,000 sq. ft. nightclub. (Nightclubs with pool components are all the rage in Las Vegas). You don’t put that kind of nightclub into a hotel aimed at the value-conscious crowd.

I won’t belabor too heavily on my past comments, but I simply don’t see how an upscale property is going to thrive in that location. Not unless the Fountainbleau (the big unfinished blue monster on the North Strip) is finished. And at a price tag of a billion to finish F-bleau, no one is holding their breath on that happening anytime soon.

Bye-Bye Fitzgerald’s, Hello Lady Luck Downtown Grand – Major changes are getting ready to happen in the downtown hotel scene with a number of properties. You can read my latest blog post Las Vegas Downtown Hotels: Luck May Not Be A Lady Much Longer detailing it all. Feel free to post your thoughts in the comments area at the bottom of the blog page.

Halloween Was Incredible – We were out both Friday and Monday nights and there were costumes galore both on The Strip and downtown. Yes, we have lots of photos. No, we haven’t had the time to process and post them yet. Outside of the normal costumes you see every year, we noticed three trends:

  • Party Rock – Inspired by the electronic music duo LFMAO (who had a big summer hit with Party Rock Anthem – click for video), this involves big lensless glasses and lots of animal prints. A family in Riverside, CA actually lit up their entire house for Halloween with a light show choreographed to the song and the video has gone viral (watch here).
  • Cheek To Cheek – Since there is only so much cleavage one can legally show, ladies are showing more and more “booty” in costumes including a few that were borderline thong bottoms. Parents, don’t bring your kids here for Halloween if they are too young to be seeing some skin.
  • Meet The Flintstones – Unless there is a current Flintstones craze that I’m missing (I grew up watching them), for some reason we saw a pretty good sprinkling of Fred, Wilma, and even Pebbles and Bam Bam (the teenage versions from the later TV series).

Good News For Drive-In Visitors From Arizona And Beyond – The new Hoover Dam bridge has cut a nice chunk of time off of your trip if you drive in through/from Arizona. Also, U.S. 93 was four-laned all the way from I-40 to the bridge. However, the road still then narrows to two lanes from the bridge on into Boulder City. This section is being widened and should be completed by the end of the year, if not sooner, eliminating the backups in that area.

Beef, Booze, and Broads – Former Mayor Oscar Goodman’s new steakhouse at The Plaza opens in mid-December. While the “joint” will be called simply Oscar’s, the tagline will be “Beef, Booze, and Broads”. The beef will be prime, drinking will be encouraged, and the hostesses will be well versed on current events and sports and will actively converse with customers.

Of interest is the No-Bama signature cocktail. After President Obama’s comments caused convention attendance in Las Vegas to plummet (a number of conventions scheduled for here actually moved their conventions to other cities), Goodman refused to meet Obama at the airport on Obama’s next Las Vegas visit. Ironically, the ONLY politician who met Obama at the airport on his recent visit was Goodman’s wife, current Mayor Carolyn Goodman. Word is that she politely gave him an earful about telling people that Las Vegas is indeed a great place to visit.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Grand Opening of the Race and Sports Book at The Venetian – The official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony took place this morning as Cantor Gaming and The Venetian (click link to book) unveiled their revolutionary Race and Sports Book on the Las Vegas Strip.

On October 14th, Margaritaville Las Vegas Reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the Largest Margarita Ever Made in Celebration of the Margaritaville Casino Opening at Flamingo – On Oct. 14th at 5 O’clock in the evening Margaritaville broke the World Record for the largest margarita ever made as verified by Guinness World Records. The event was part of the Grand Opening festivities for the new Margaritaville Casino at Flamingo in Las Vegas.

Blue Man Group Opens New Visually Stunning, Interactive Retail Store At The Venetian – Blue Man Group (click link to book) opens a new visually stunning, interactive retail store at The Venetian. Located in front of the Blue Man Group Theatre, the retail store features an interactive video wall with two high-definition monitors and a ”fan cam.” The fan cam records video of visitors and broadcasts it live on one of the screens.

Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ and Beer To Rock Las Vegas Strip With The South’s Best Barbecue, Rockin’ Bar Scene – Barbecue, Beer Joint to Celebrate Opening with Week-Long Party in December – One of the most iconic rock bands in American history will bring Southern barbecue and entertainment to the Excalibur Hotel & Casino (click link to book) on the Las Vegas Strip with the grand opening of Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer in early December.

”With Lynyrd Skynyrd BBQ & Beer, we wanted to create the kind of place that we’d like to hang out at,” says Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd. ”With Southern-style barbecue and great music, this will be the perfect spot for rock and barbecue fans to kick back and have a great time in Vegas.”

Ethel M Chocolates Opens 18th Annual Holiday Cactus Lighting Event to General Public – Bring a new, unwrapped toy to the chocolate factory and receive a family four-pack of tickets to the Nov. 15 event – This year, giving is receiving as Ethel M Chocolates invites the general public to experience the Nov. 15 Cactus Lighting event by donating a new toy to a child in need. Recognized as the ultimate holiday destination in Southern Nevada, the 18th Annual Cactus Lighting will be hosted by funny man George Wallace , with holiday performances by Strip headliners Human Nature and Zowie Bowie.

Shout it Out Loud! KISS By Monster Mini Golf is Swinging Into Vegas – Featuring the ”Rock & Roll All Nite” Cafe and ”Hotter Than Hell” Wedding Chapel – KISS By Monster Mini Golf, a unique rock æn roll themed amusement attraction based around the world renowned band KISS, is swinging into Las Vegas. Scheduled to open in January 2012, KISS By Monster Mini Golf is the first of its kind and will include an indoor glow-in-the-dark custom-designed, rockin’ 18-hole miniature golf course, a state-of-the-art arcade, the largest KISS gift shop in the world, A KISS Gallery, ”Hotter Than Hell” Wedding Chapel, a private VIP Room, FANtastic KISS themed event rooms and the ”Rock ‘n Roll All Nite” CafÚ. A live DJ will rock the house, throughout the days and many ”Crazy, Crazy Nights” with continuous KISS music, trivia, contests and prizes creating a place embraced by locals, tourists, and rockers of all ages.

ARIA Offers Appetizer and Drink Specials on 11/11/11 – Six specialty restaurants at ARIA Resort & Casino (click link to book) are celebrating the rare – and maybe even lucky – date of 11/11/11 with $11 appetizers and $11 drink specials. And because the day deserves more than just 24 hours to celebrate, ARIA is extending the specials through November 13 which means guests have three days to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime date.

Hoover Dam Top to Bottom by Luxury SUV with Colorado River FloatHoover Dam Top to Bottom by Luxury SUV with Colorado River Float û Travel to Hoover Dam from Las Vegas in style and comfort aboard a luxury SUV. Your experienced guide will share many points of interest along the way so you can truly appreciate the extra care and comfort of the luxury vehicle. The Hoover Dam by Luxury SUV and Colorado River Float offers ample time for exploring this National Historic Landmark and engineering wonder of the world. See live presentations, a fascinating film on the Dam’s construction and history, exhibit gallery, observation deck, and venture down to the observation room in the power plant to view the massive generators. You’ll also encounter dramatic views of both the Colorado River and Lake Mead, the largest man-made body of water in the Western Hemisphere. From the Lake Mead Overlook, you’re transported to the Colorado River by van on the Lower Portal Road, where construction crews traveled each day. You’ll see the original gauging station used to measure water level and flow, and dynamite storage bunkers used during construction.

Click To Book Hoover Dam Top to Bottom by Luxury SUV with Colorado River Float áNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Heart Attack Grill Opens Downtown Las Vegas Fremont Street – Known for their Quadruple Bypass Burger, Butterfat Shakes (with the world’s highest butterfat content), ”Flatliner” Fries deep fried in pure lard plus sales of beer and cigarettes, this former staple of the Phoenix area is taking gluttony to the next level in Sin City. Waitresses are dressed in naughty nurse outfits.
  • Name That Tune Live! – You remember the show, now it’s your chance to get in the game! Name That Tune Live is now at Imperial Palace, and we’ve got the details on how you can participate. Hosts of the show, Zowie Bowie, are here to bring us up to speed! Name That Tune tickets
  • Las Vegas Strip Video Tour – Growing ever more popular online are people who put a video camera on the dash of their car and do a time lapse of diving various roads around the country. Enjoy this drive on Las Vegas Blvd. all the way from downtown and Fremont Street to the south end of The Strip!
  • Backstage with Terry Fator – Part 2 from last week. Have you ever wondered what the dressing rooms are like for the Las Vegas headliners? Well, Terry Fator was nice enough to take our cameras backstage when we spent the day with him. Terry Fator tickets

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Just wanted to say Thanks for your newsletter! It’s always full of great info and ideas and truly appreciated.

I just returned from a 1 week vacation Sept. 29-Oct. 7 and wanted to comment on a few things we did that other readers might like. First I HIGHLY recommend The Rat Pack is Back at the Rio. Awesome show!! If you want to feel like you stepped back in time to an old Vegas show- this is it. The two men who impersonated Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra were dead on and I actually thought I was watching and listening to the ‘younger’ Dean & Frank. When the doors opened for seating “Dean Martin” was out front to have your picture taken with (for sale after the show of course) but it was truly eerie standing next to him. I grew up in love with handsome Dean Martin and now I was standing next to him! After the show you could have your picture taken with the entire cast (Frank, Dean, Sammy & Joey). Anyway the show was well worth it and had a great mix of singing, comedy and banter between the guys.

Then one night when we were walking back to the Luxor from Caesars we walked past The Cosmopolitan – wow what a beautiful casino!! It drew us in and we played there for a bit. Next year when we go back I’ve already stated that I want to spend more time in that casino- just the beautiful sparkly dÚcor is enough for me. I’m a girl that loves GLITTER!! LOL!

Lastly I went through the Titanic exhibit again at Luxor. It still gives me goosebumps but I love it. Now I highly recommend getting 1/2 price tix on the Strip for this because even though it’s a good exhibit I just can’t justify paying full price for it. But it’s a nice way to kill an hour and see a part of history.

The only sad part of my trip was that they are redoing the the Food Court upstairs in Luxor and our favorite ice cream place Swenson’s was closing. In fact they are closed now but we enjoyed their Swiss Orange Chip ice cream until our last day there. They were always on our ‘must do’ list ever since I started going to Vegas in 1999 – they will be missed.

Thanks for letting me get the word out about The Rat Pack Is Back and The Cosmopolitan!! Keep up the great work and when you go to a paid subscription I’ll gladly be sending in my money!!

Cheryl from Loveland, Colorado

 

Ted Responds:

Thanks for the great report! The Rat Pack shows are a lot of fun and bring back the spirit of “old Vegas” in a big way. For those wanting to go retro, we also suggest catching Name That Tune, the afternoon show at the Imperial Palace. Host Chris Phillips would be a member of The Rat Pack if it existed today.

Cosmopolitan continues to get raves. The three-level chandelier bar in the center is a one-of-a-kind experience. What many don’t know is that each level had its own drink menu. In fact, each bar in the property has a specialty cocktail specific to that bar which changes seasonally. This has proved to be very popular among those who love the new “craft cocktails” trend (where various fresh fruit or juice may be muddled and mixed with unusual liquors to create unique tasting drinks). In fact, they’ll comp you even these specialty drinks if you are playing video poker (max coins in) but keep in mind that their video poker pay tables aren’t the best in town.

Thanks for the support on our pending transition to a paid-subscriber model (early next year). We publish every week on a “wing and a prayer” as far as getting the information together and we get regular requests to carry certain types of helpful information that we simply don’t have the resources to do at this time. When you think of how valuable your time in Las Vegas is (what it costs to visit for the amount of time you are here), the subscription will pay for itself easily in time saved helping you KNOW what to do and see as opposed to just wandering aimlessly like so many visitors do!

Returned from Las Vegas last Saturday (Oct. 15). Great weather all week. Stayed at the IP. I don’t know why everyone complains about the IP. Rooms not fancy but clean and good room service. We get comped for most of our week. Where else can you stay for around $100. for a week. All we basically do while in the room is sleep and shower.

Had a great time and would recommend the IP to anyone not looking for fancy. We are always treated with great service. Can’t wait to return for a visit in the Spring. Hope when they knock down O’Sheas it won’t change the IP except for updating. Don’t need more fancy shops. Vegas needs to get back to basics. Mary Ann and Dave from Cleveland, Ohio

 

Ted Responds:

I think that (Imperial Palace owners) Caesars Entertainment understand that they can’t try to turn the property into a high-priced joint. Although with the hotel renovations, I imagine room rates will be higher once they have dumped some money into the property.

We do know that the Asian theme is pretty much going bye-bye as they change the name. We’re seeing a trend of Las Vegas properties dumping names they don’t have the right to (which means they are paying royalties to use those names). They do own the “Horseshoe” brand and speculation is that they might use it on the renovated IP.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 26, 2011

Posted on by

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Ted has taken time off this past week to spend time with visiting family and to celebrate his 46’th birthday. His column and Members Mania will return next week.

You can read his recent blog post Jimmy Buffett Margaritaville Casino Las Vegas û Winner, Winner. Chicken Dinner which includes multiple photos of the new gaming area at The Flamingo.

Please enjoy this issue prepared by staff.

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Chocolate Witch on Display at Bellagio for Halloween – Handcrafted Showpiece Debuts at Jean Philippe Patisserie – The supremely talented pastry staff at Jean Philippe PÔtisserie at Bellagio (click link to book) has unveiled a chocolate masterpiece just in time for Halloween. A chocolate witch soars high above the pastry shop on her broom while holding a pumpkin and keeping a close eye on passersby.

The chefs began designing and constructing the witch in June, utilizing nearly 60 pounds of chocolate and 30 pounds of fondant to help her take flight. The pastry team also created 11 different sweet treats, sure to please any ghost or goblin.

Michael Jackson Fan Fest Showcases Never-Before-Seen Memorabilia and Interactive Fan Experiences for a Limited Time in Las Vegas – Exhibit Opens December 3-14 Alongside December Las Vegas Debut of ”THE IMMORTAL World Tour” – Walk through the storied gates of Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, then view his personal book collection in a study filled with his actual furniture. Peek inside the interior of the 1999 Rolls-Royce Seraph limousine Michael designed himself with 24-karat gold embellishments, then check out the 10-foot-tall statue created for the HIStory tour.

Tito Ortiz, Arianny Celeste, Frankie Edgar And Other MMA Stars Visit Las Vegas Fight Shop Oct. 28-29 – MMA stars Arianny Celeste, Miesha Tate, Natalie Skyy, Frankie ‘The Answer’ Edgar and Tito Ortiz visit Las Vegas Fight Shop inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino for a series of meet and greets Oct. 28 and 29.

Las Vegas Restaurant Guy Savoy Acquires Enormous 1.16-pound White Truffle – Restaurant Guy Savoy at Caesars Palace (click link to book) acquired a 1.16-pounds white truffle from Urbani Truffles. This enormous truffle was picked by a 15 year-old-boy, Luigi, who was in training with his father, Francesco. The truffle was found by Luigi’s dog Coco, a hound dog mix breed. It was found in the morning on Monday, Oct. 17 next to a hazel tree in Piedmont, Italy. The cost of the truffle was between $5,000 and $7,000 and is estimated to be able to make 100 white truffle risotto dishes. Photo Credit: Scott Roeben

Singer and Songwriter Frankie Moreno On His Way Up at Stratosphere – New Headliner Begins November 9, 2011 – The Stratosphere Casino Hotel & Tower is proud to announce the signing of singer and songwriter Frankie Moreno as its new headline act in Stratosphere Theater beginning Wednesday, November 9, 2011. Moreno’s ten-piece band will perform three nights a week.

Shark Reef Aquarium’s Haunted Reef at Mandalay Bay Brings Thrills and Chills on October 29 – Blood donors and children in costume receive free admission – Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (click link to book) will eerily transform into Haunted Reef on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Costumed children 12 and under will receive complimentary access and sugary sweets.

Grand Canyon South Rim Bus TourGrand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour û Words and even pictures cannot fully describe this stunning gift of nature. Tour the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in comfortably appointed deluxe touring coaches. This 1-day Grand Canyon bus tour departs Las Vegas at 7:30am for a full day of sightseeing. The driver/guides will entertain and inform you as you travel to the Grand Canyon National Park. The tour makes a stop at the Hoover Dam and Kingman, Arizona on it’s way to the Grand Canyon National Park, arriving around 11:45 AM for your wonderful buffet lunch which is sure to leave you with a full stomach and a more in depth knowledge of this fascinating area. Once inside the canyon, the tour will stop at popular viewing areas, Mather Pt., Yavapai, and the Bright Angel Lodge. All the stops provide time for exploring and photographing. On the return trip to Las Vegas, a stop will be made in Williams, Arizona

Click To Book Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Tour Now!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Terry Fator – Terry Fator won Season 2 of America’s Got Talent. Shortly after that, he was signed to a 5 year deal to headline at the Mirage with his cast of thousands. He brings his puppets to life with songs, impressions and comedy for all ages. Now that he calls Las Vegas home, this funny man does more than just make people laugh… he also spends his spare time giving back to our community.
    Book Now and Save: Terry Fator
  • Golf Course Offers Look Into Las Vegas’ Colorful Past – The old Stardust Country Club was the home of entertainers, mobsters, the Rat Pack, and big-name PGA tournaments. Now Las Vegas National Golf Club, relive this Las Vegas courses storied history.
  • Rising Lake Mead Brings Challenges – For the first time in years, the water level at Lake Mead is rising, and not just by a little bit. Just a year ago, Lake Mead hit its lowest water level since 1956. Fast-forward one year and the water level is up nearly 30 feet. Read more…
  • Valley of Fire Wedding – See the stunning scenery just out outside Las Vegas as we peek into photos from this wedding at the stunning Valley Of Fire northwest of Las Vegas. Transportation to this beautiful, remote spot was by Maverick Helicopter. To experience a special event (wedding or other celebration at locations such as the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Valley Of Fire or other remote scenic spots, call Maverick at 888-877-2978. Tell them Access Vegas sent you for extra special treatment!

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Members Mania will return next week when Ted returns.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 19, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! I have my parents flying in from Portland, Oregon to enjoy some warmth and sunshine. Our overnight low is right around their afternoon high temperature. Our forcast is sunshine, theirs is rain. Every summer I tell those of you in cooler regions to plan a fall trip to Las Vegas to “extend” your summer. I’m sure some of you are wishing you had taken my advice right about now!

Two Great Complimentary Shows – Sometimes we get so used to some of the regular, complimentary things to see and do that we overlook the fact that our readership is growing and Las Vegas always has first-timers! Hence, a couple of long-running performers worth seeing on your next visit:

Big Elvis – Big Elvis performs all the hits of the King of Rock & Roll, as well as other popular tunes in the genres of rock, country, gospel, R&B and pop spanning six decades of music. He interacts with his audience, invites them to participate in his show and performs requests, including both popular and obscure songs.

Showtimes: Monday through Friday; 3, 5 and 6:30 p.m. in BillÆs Lounge. Pricing: Complimentary.

Cook E. Jarr – Cook E. JarrÆs show is a mixture of booming, booty-shaking music and plentiful patter from the motor mouth musician, punctuated by the CooksterÆs dog barks, imitation engine-revving (which comes in handy during ‘Born to Be Wild’) and other trademark sound effects. While Jarr sings along to pre-recorded tracks of funky hits old and new, red and blue lights revolve, police car style atop speakers pumping out a nonstop beat. A strobe light fires up at random intervals, while a mirrored disco ball twirls overhead.

I’ve seen Cook E. Jarr since his days at The Continental (now Terribles) in the early 90’s and he’s still putting on a great show.

Showtimes: Saturday and Sunday; 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in BillÆs Lounge Pricing: Complimentary.

Daylife Comes Indoors – For better or worse, Las Vegas has become infamous for the plethora of pool parties (known as daylife… a take on nightlife). While we’re still having great weather, our fair city is not warm and sunny all year long. (Sunny, yes but the average high temperature in December and January is a very chilly — for us — 57 degrees and you can’t even fake a pool party in that kind of weather). Both Ghostbar at The Palms and Lavo at Palazzo are going to attempt to bring the beach indoors. Lavo with their Saturday Champaign brunch (think bikini brunch) and Ghostbar with a champaign-fueled all-afternoon party.

Vegas SportsDay – Las Vegas is the sports betting capital of the world. Even before moving here (nearly 20 years ago), I remember syndicated sports betting shows on TV Saturdays and Sundays with screaming “wise guys” trying to sell their “lock of the year” sports picks. Fortunately for me, the Las Vegas based Stardust Line radio show reached my hometown of Portland, OR (because of the night signal strength of KDWN 720 AM) and I continued to listen once I moved here. This was a no-nonsense sports wagering show hosted by professionals who knew their stuff.

Unfortunately for me, the show ended when the blew up The Stardust. Fortunately for myself and all of us who enjoy sports wagering action, two former Stardust Line co-hosts Dave Malinsky and Ted Sevransky have launched a similar new daily show which airs live at 11 AM Pacific weekdays and is also available for archived viewing and on iTunes. More info at Vegas SportsDay home page.

Unemployment And Foreclosures Still Bad News – As I predicted a few months ago, home foreclosures in Las Vegas are way up again. While some of it is attributed to the “robo signing” (real estate stuff that we won’t delve into), one can’t overlook workers in the construction industry who have lost their jobs since the end of the boom. (I’ve heard estimates ranging from 40,000 to 100,000). CityCenter is done, Cosmopolitan is up, the new performing arts center is wrapping up, and the new Las Vegas City Hall is moving right along. Although Project Linq (the outdoor plaza between Imperial Palace and Flamingo) will provide employment, it won’t put a dent in construction jobs.

Meanwhile, Las Vegas unemployment is on the rise again to over 14%. Why don’t people (especially those in construction) leave town for work? They are “underwater” on their home and simply can’t sell it and make up the difference. Which is eventually going to lead to even more forelclosures as people give up and walk away to start over elsewhere. Optamists are saying that the market will bottom out and start to recover in 2012. I’m saying maybe spring of 2013.

We cover this type of news because of a strong demand among our readers for Las Vegas real estate information. For those of you who are seriously looking at buying here, something very important to keep in mind: The homes are historically cheap, but (as someone who is in the market), I’ve rarely come across a house that didn’t need some real work done to it.

Worst case are homes that were basically stripped and/or beaten up (missing or broken cabinents, etc.) But at the very least, people who are out of work and struggling to make ends meet generally don’t maintain their homes. So expect to find everything from old carpet to badly neglected landscape to roofing issues. Me? I’m actually looking at that as a positive. I’m going to buy a beat-up place and then put the exact touches (choice of flooring, landscaping, appliances) that I want into it.

Limos Are Back – We’re started running advertising for airport limos again to a really nice response. (Click on the link below). Over the years, we’ve recieved great feedback from people who have taken this option. You skip the taxi lines, you have a driver waiting for you, it is much more affordible than many people imagine, and you just look so cool pulling up to your hotel with a driver.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

MGM Grand Unveils New Guest Room and Suite Designs – Remodel Begins, First Rooms Complete by Late November – Recognized worldwide as the ultimate Las Vegas entertainment destination, MGM Grand today revealed designs for its new rooms and suites.

Underway this week, the $160 million remodel includes all 3,570 guest rooms and 642 suites in the hotel’s main tower and is expected to conclude by September 2012. The initial set of redesigned rooms will be complete by the end of November 2011.

”Our new rooms complement MGM Grand’s incredible collection of accommodations,” said Scott Sibella, president and COO for MGM Grand. ”This is one of many exciting announcements on the horizon, all of which will solidify MGM Grand’s position not only as an entertainment destination, but as a premier hospitality experience.”

Hyde Lounge Bellagio – First Look – Hyde Lounge Bellagio is the first nightlife venture in Las Vegas by renowned hospitality leader sbe and visionary design icon Philippe Starck with Gulla Jonsdottir of G+ Design. Boasting a seamless 12,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor space and floor-to-ceiling windows, Hyde features an expansive terrace that showcases Las Vegas’ most celebrated landmark, the Fountains of Bellagio.

McFadden’s Hosts A Game Watch For Pivitoal Big Ten Football Game Saturday, Oct. 29 – Watch the Buckeyes Take on the Badgers at the Official 2011 Ohio State Football Bar – A sea of red will flood the high-definition TVs as McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon at Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino hosts a viewing party for the Ohio State vs. Wisconsin game on Saturday, Oct. 29. The powerhouse programs, both wearing red, are knee-deep in the conference schedule as they look to push ahead of each other in the standings. An hour prior to kickoff, the party bar will become the pregame place to be as all Ohio State fans enjoy 25 cent Coors Light drafts. Throughout the game, guests will knock back $5 mimosas, bloody Marys and Buckeye Bombs as they watch every pass, play and tackle. Additional Buckeye specials will be available. Click link below for more details.

Fantasy Las Vegas Announces November Showgirl Of The Month Kristin – Kristin, a gorgeous dancer with an edge, is FANTASY’s (click link to book) November ”Showgirl of the Month.” The sexy adult revue at Luxor Hotel and Casino celebrates a dancer each month. Kristin is a Wisconsin native who loves to paint and travel. When this bombshell isn’t dancing, she enjoys catching up on her favorite television shows and eating sushi. This bella ragazza also has a strong affection for Venice, Italy. Las Vegas locals can catch Kristin hanging out with friends at her favorite local hot spot Artisan Hotel Boutique.

Hoover Dam Tour from Las VegasHoover Dam Tour from Las Vegas û Your trip to Las Vegas won’t be complete without a tour of the mighty Hoover Dam! Built during the Depression, thousands of men came to Black Canyon to tame the Colorado River, and it took them less than 5 years to build the largest dam of its time.

Click To Book Hoover Dam Tour from Las VegasáNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Video – Spago Las Vegas American Restarant at Caesars Palace – We live in special cityà where some of the most talented Chefs in the world call home. Mix all of that talent with fresh fruits and vegetables from our local farmersà and you have a recipe for the finest cuisine on earth. ThatÆs what is happening over at Spago, in the Forum Shops at Caesars, as Chef Eric showed us when we spent the day with him.
  • Jimmy Buffett and Record-Breaking Margarita at Flamingo Vegas – The record for the World’s Biggest Margarita is broken, Oct. 13, 2011. Singer Jimmy Buffett was on-hand at Flamingo Las Vegas for the celebration and to mark the opening of the first Margaritaville Casino.
  • New Michael Jackson ‘King of Pop’ Slot Machine – Gambling author and casino expert, Steve Bourie, takes a look at the new Michael Jackson ”King of Pop” slot machine from Bally Technologies which was introduced at the October 2011 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. It is a one-cent, wide area progressive, slot machine that is expected to start arriving in casinos by mid-2012.
  • Gaming Regulators Approve Sports Betting Smart Phone App – The control room at American Wagering is sportsbook central. All bets are managed there, whether they come from Leroy’s Sportsbooks, a kiosk at PT’s Pub or now an iPhone. ”You now have a legal sports betting app that can be used here in the state of Nevada,” said American Wagering Senior Vice President John English. English’s company has released the nation’s first mobile sports betting app on the iPhone. Read more

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

I just turned 50 in September. I am planning a trip to Vegas in December. I know there are alot casinos with 50 plus clubs. Can you please let me know which ones and what they offer. I know alot of them are off the strip, that’s fine we always rent a car.

Thank you

Cathy P. from Chicago, IL

Ted Responds:

Wish I had better news for you, but the dearth of live entertainment resulting from hotel budget cutbacks hasn’t left much out there. Especially aimed at the 50+ crowd (which is upwards of half Vegas visitors, so go figure). Chris Phillips of Zowie Bowie was doing a “Vintage Vegas” show at Green Valley ranch ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15E8brNiCRg and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlbf8aWrFG0 ), but even that wasn’t a nightlife experience.

A best kept secret you may wish to check out: Just about every Monday evening, The Bootlegger (a Las Vegas institution with upscale Italian dining around the clock) hosts karaoke starting at 9 PM. Yawn… so what? This isn’t your average karaoke. Hosted by Kelly Clinton (wife of long-time Harrah’s headliner Clint Holmes), many of the stars of Las Vegas shows stop by. Some to sing, some to just hang out. It has a true “old Vegas” feel and people in your (and my) age range will be very commfortable. Oh, and did I mention the band is LIVE?!?

The Bootlegger is located on Las Vegas Blvd. (The Strip) just 4.5 miles south of Bellagio at 7700 Las Vegas Blvd, So. I’d call ahead to confirm the event and ask if you need reservations, any questions regarding enjoying a late dinner, etc. at (702) 736-4939

Hope this helps!

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe October 12, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – Our cold snap is over, and temps are comfortably back in the 80’s where they belong. Lots to get to, so we’ll dig right in this week.

Numbers Continue To Climb – You must be buying something on your visits! Local taxable sales are up double digits with clothing/accessories (shopping) and food/beverage (eating and boozing) leading the way. Airline passenger counts are up as well, and we’ve previously noted that we’re on pace to tie the record of 39.2 million visitors who visited in 2007. Funny how the national (and international) media was so quick to dig our grave just a couple short years ago, but are so mum about the recovery of our visitor industry. Na-na-na-na-na!

I’ll Take A Mulligan – I pride myself on being a pretty good prognosticator on all things Vegas. In the early 2000’s I said that downtown would “pop” within 10 years what a change we’ve seen (Fremont East, high-rise living, revitalized neighborhoods, refurbished hotels and more). I called the bust at times when real estate prices were an unsustainable joke. (Did everybody think that home prices were going to rise forever here)? When the stalled/failed Echelon project was announced (the one which they blew up the Stardust for), I immidiatly questioned the viability of it on my (then) podcast.

But… I goofed about Nikki Beach/Club at The Tropicana, which has just been taken over by the hotel due to lack of bottom-line (financial) performance. I was very aware of the Nikki brank, and global group of daylife/nightlife locations which feature a cool vibe, relaxed atmosphere, and good food/drink. Oh, and you don’t feel out-of-place if you are over 30.

I’m taking the mulligan because that is NOT what the Las Vegas Nikki location did. Instead, they jumped in to the “big celebrity” fray played by most of the other clubs in town. You pay big-name celebrities to show up, hoping that crowds and publicity will follow. Evidently, this gamble failed to pay off. We’ll see if Tropicana (minus the Nikki brand name) goes back to a more traditional “Nikki” style of club. Let’s hope so. The rest of us need somewhere to enjoy!

Monorail Out Of Bankruptcy – The Las Vegas Monorail has evidently shed enough bondholder debt to exit bankruptcy. However, don’t hold your breath on the long-term future of the ride. In a few years, the line faces major overhaul maintenance costs that it simply does not have the money for. The only hope for the line is an extension to the airport, and the Las Vegas economy would most likely have to return to a sizzle to get enough new investors to risk betting on that.

So why doesn’t the local government wrangle control of the line and build the extension? The taxi and limo companies here in Las Vegas are very, very politically connected. Heaven forbid you could take a quick, inexpensive ride from the airport to The Strip. No, you have to wait in cab lines, hope the cabbie does not take you the long route, and listen to him act like he’s the most knowlegable man in Las Vegas in order to pump up his tip. Side Note: If you read this newsletter, you are more knowledeable about Las Vegas than about 95% of the cab drivers out there. Speaking of…

You Don’t Say… – It turns out that a 2000 study by The Las Vegas Sands (Venetian, Sands Convention Center and [now] Palazzo) basically said that the monorial was going to be a flop. Las Vegas sands was eveidently not a big fan of the project (it bypassed both The Venetian and their convention center) and thus the report was dismissed as sour grapes. Now that the report has turned out to be accurtate, angry monorial investors have filed a lawsuit regarding the fact that the report wasn’t presented when they were given investment information.

Sahara Rumblings – The owners of The Sahara evidently used the money from the sale of all the stuff (they basically stripped the place to the bare walls) to buy the debt on the property. Think of it as selling everything in your home to pay off the mortgage. And, we’re still hearing some talk of them wanting to keep with their plan to turn it into a boutique hotel. (No indication whether that means blowing the place up or retrofitting it Tropicana/Plaza style).

I’m at a loss as how this is going to work. The owner Sam Nazarian is a pretty young guy (in his 30’s) who made his fortune in trendy nightclubs. I get it. Honestly, he was probably embarassed to tell people that he owned The Sahara. He’d like to own one of the “cool” places in Las Vegas. But he can wish all he wants. I’m just not seeing any way an upscale/boutique property will work at that location. At least not until Fountainblu is finished and the north end of The Strip regains enough momentum to shake it’s decidedly “Circus Circus” image.

P.S. Reasonably serious rumors are surfacing that Fountainblu might be torn down and sold for scrap. If that happens and Echelon (former Stardust) continues to sit idle, look for the North Strip woes to continue for years.

Live On The Air – As noted last issue, we’ve started my new call-in segment on the Vegas Video Network Living In Las Vegas show! Doing a full-fledged Las Vegas podcast (like many of you remember me doing) is not yet in the cards so I jumped at the invitation to appear.

On the mose recent episode, I discussed the opening of the new Margaritaville Casino, the street party they are holding the next two Saturdays (in conjunction with the Jimmy Buffet concerts of the 15’th and 22’nd), Las Vegas hotel occupancy and prices, and noted a strip hotel that is bucking the DJ and Jersey Shore crowd trend and actually appealing to the traditional Las Vegas visitor.

You can catch my segment on the most recent Living In Las Vegas (click to go to the show page, then click on show #127). I’m in the final segment of the show.

Send Us Your Trip Reports And Win – We always enjoy hearing about your visits. From now on, if you submit a trip report (include some photos if you took any) to us at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com and we use it in the newsletter, we’ll comp you a one year subscription next year. In order to achieve proper staffing and to avoid the ups-and-downs of show openings and closings (which mean ups and downs in advertising revenue), we will be going to a modest subscription model in early 2012.

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Celebrate National Seafood Month at ARIA Restaurants – Mina, Jean Georges Steakhouse, Sage and Sirio Ristorante have created exceptional seasonal menus blending farm-fresh ingredients with seafood such as lobster, scallops and fish. Each highlights the best of fallÆs culinary trends and the seaÆs exquisite offerings. Click the story for all the details.

Blonde Bombshell Holly Madison Signs Multi-Million Dollar Extension In Peepshow At Planet Hollywood – Las Vegas‘ mega-hit striptease spectacular, PEEPSHOW (click link to book) at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is proud to announce that blonde starlet, business entrepreneur and Miss Las Vegas, Holly Madison recently signed a multi-million dollar extension contract to remain in the spotlight as ”Bo Peep” in PEEPSHOW throughout 2012. Recently named ”Favorite Local Celebrity” in the 30th annual Las Vegas Review-Journal’s ”Best-Of” awards, Madison will continue to charm and captivate critics and audiences alike performing her playful, yet sexy modern-day showgirl role. Tickets for performances through spring of 2012 will go on sale beginning October 10, 2011.

America’s Got Talent is Coming to LAS VEGAS!! – The ‘America’s Got Talent’ auditions are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for performers across the country to showcase their talents in 90 seconds to series’ producers in the hopes of being able to take the stage in front of the judges. Every type of performer is welcome – including musicians, dance crews, magicians, contortionists, comedians, singers, jugglers, animal acts and everything in between û all of whom want to perform for America’s votes and the coveted $1 million prize.

Omega Watches U.S. And Tourbillon Present Speedmaster Forum Exhibit Featuring Gemini And Apollo Astronauts At Crystals At Citycenter – Astronauts from the landmark Gemini and Apollo NASA programs will join OMEGA and TOURBILLON at Crystals at CityCenter to celebrate an exhibit featuring rare artifacts from the iconic space missions.

Celebrate National Magic Week at ILLUSIONS Starring Jan Rouven – Mention ‘National Magic Week’ at the FAME Theater Box Office to Receive $15 off Ticket Price October 25-31 – Master Illusionist Jan Rouven is inviting guests to celebrate National Magic Week with a $15 discount on all tickets to his show ILLUSIONS (click link to book) at the Clarion Hotel & Casino. Simply mention ‘National Magic Week’ at the FAME Theater Box Office October 25-31 and receive the discount.

Canyon Dream Air and Land TourCanyon Dream Air and Land Tour û A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour áNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Wynn Golf Club and Jazz Brunch – ItÆs no secret that when Steve Wynn builds a property, he does not hold back. We saw this first hand when we spent the day playing in the beautiful backyard of Wynn Las Vegas, which happens to be an 18 – Hole golf course that looks more like something you would find in the foothills of North Carolina than in the middle of the desert. Our recommendation, plan a day that includes Sunday brunch.
  • 1994 Las Vegas compared to 2008 – Some of the things that have changed from 1994 to December 2008. And still more development is on the way! Features Luxor boat ride and the MGM Grand Adventures amusement park.
  • Jimmy Buffett Pre Concert Party at MGM Las Vegas Parrotheads – With the grand opening of the Margaritaville Casino and Jimmy Buffet’s two annual concerts just around the corner, enjoy one of the past official pre-concert parties. This year, Buffett plays the 15’th and 22’nd of October and the all-day pre-concert party is scheduled to begin at 11 AM (both dates) outside of the Margaritaville restaurant area.
  • Bellagio Grand Opening Preview of Mandalay Bay – Looking back in time to opening night of The Bellagio with looks ahead to the opening of Mandalay Bay.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

Is it just me, or does it seem there is a increase in the panhandlers on the walkways over the strip? We were in Vegas in September, and in some cases there were up to three people on each over pass with signs that said Pregnant And Stranded With Puppy, Homeless Vet, Why Lie I need Beer, and one that said Have Cancer No Medical Insurance To Pay For Chemotherapy.

Also there are numerous men outside the Flamingo Casino and Bally’s, wearing white shirts with shoulder flashes that say they are Missionaries, and are collecting money to feed the homeless.They are right in your face as you come off the escalators or when you are leaving the casino, and hold out their buckets for you to feed.

Then after all that, you have to put up with all the card flickers that the city can’t get rid of. I am sorry if I sound like a bad person,and just a complainer who won’t help the down and out,but it has become rather annoying to have to put up with this each time you go for a walk.

Donald M. Gariepy

Ted Responds:

You are correct, all of this activity has flourished over the past couple of years. I spoke with a contact close to Metro (Las Vegas police) who works regularly on the Las Vegas Strip who gave his personal opinion/input:

————————-

  • First, the homeless. As long as they are on the side of the overpasses, not in the way, and not aggressive, they are usually left alone. Next, the missionaries. Since they are collecting for charity, and I believe it is a real charity, they are left alone. I also have heard complaints about them, but unless they are outrageous in their actions, they too are ignored.
  • The pornslappers are a real issue, and my personal opinion is that since Metro got spanked in court, for now, it’s hands off. The street performers are another issue, and as long as they do not cause trouble, they are left alone. The time share folks are tolerated, as they are somewhat employed, and identified.
  • Now for the biggie: The water sellers. They are targeted, quite often, by Metro. When caught, they are arrested, ticketed and their stuff either confiscated or dumped. They have a huge network of lookouts, sometimes two and three deep in each location.
  • In total, the sidewalks are overcrowded with all of the above. I have found, walking along the strip, both alone (out of uniform) and with my wife, most of the time if you don’t make eye contact, and just keep walking, they will move out of the way. Kind of a New York stride. There is talk between Clark County, Metro & the casinos about doing more, but nothing has been passed down thru channels, that I have heard.

————————-

I’ll add my own personal two cents in:

I regularly give to charity including the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. So when I get agressively panhandled, I tell them that and they shut up. Nothing wrong with telling them that you already donate to charity where you live. As we’ve discussed before, the ACLU worked to uphold the “rights” of the pornslappers. I also have success doing what our source said to do: Simply don’t make eye contact.

Unfortunately, neither our county commissioners nor the upper-level casino executives actually walk The Strip like a tourist. There is a huge disconnect between them and visitors (including the amount of time the escalators on the crossovers are out-of-service) and it is a travesty. It is impacting the visitor experience.

We just returned from Vegas (I LOVE it there) anyway we stayed downtown at the Nugget (first time downtown) we have visited there before but never stayed. Anyway we loved it the casinos are close you feel safe, and I do believe the slots are looser, more loose, whatever.

I did go to the strip one day wile my wife was in a seminar/class but for the most part our time was spent downtown. I recommend it!

And again I will say we always look forward to you news letter!

Larry & Norma Henry from Oregon

 

Ted Responds:

Downtown isn’t for everyone, but I enjoy it for the reasons you mentioned. Besides looser games and cheaper food/drink, I really like the ability to casino-hop. If your luck isn’t so good at one place, you just walk across the street. No question that the Nugget is the class of downtown, but improvements at The Plaza and El Cortez are certainly signs that downtown is improving and upgrading.

Don’t get me wrong: If you only stay at Encore, Palazzo, Aria and similar, downtown properties generally won’t be your speed. But given the amount of feedback from people who miss the “Old Vegas”, all I can do is point them do downtown. Let’s not forget that in its final years, The Sands was a run-down second rate joint that had dollar blackjack and dollar beers. I’m not denigrating the memory. I was there when they closed, being one of a few placing final bets in honor of the property. But many of the downtown properties are now in better shape than last years of The Sands.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
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More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

Access Vegas Insider Vibe September 28, 2011

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AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

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Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! – I often warn people that our temps frequently range 10 degrees above or below average, and this past week we’ve been in the “above” phase with us brushing up against the 100 degree F mark. Fortunately, it cools quickly into the evening as the days are getting shorter. The downside when this happens? We swing the other way. Later next week, we’re looking at days that are only in the mid-70’s with overnight lows in the 50’s. NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! Someone tell me that is a bad joke. I don’t want a preview of early November yet!

Practicing What I Preach – A few weeks ago, I noted that one of the great things about living here is quick access to all the fun stuff on The Strip. Well, I was recently sitting at home watching college football on a Thursday night (I’m a big college football fan, I’ll watch regardless of who is playing). And it dawned on me: Why am I sitting watching this at home? So less than 20 minutes later I had relocated my behind to one of the comfortable couches at Rhumbar.

Note: I am not in this photo. We got it from Rhumbar. But if you look at the upper left side, you can see a TV bracket which (on my particular day) had a big, flat-screen TV playing the game. Side Note: They show most college and pro games. So there I sat watching the game, beautiful outdoor environment, surrounded by The Mirage, Venetian, and Harrah’s as the sun went down and the hotels lit up with a cocktail in my had. Life doesn’t get much better.

Musical Acts Play Musical Chairs – 2012 brings some show location changes. Barry Manilow is moving to Harrah’s, which will be his third residency (Hilton, Paris) since he became a Las Vegas headliner many years ago. Jersey Boys are moving to Paris Las Vegas (the announcement of which preceded Manilow’s move). Meanwhile, Donny and Marie will be around throughout 2012 although conjecture exists that they may scale back the number of days they play.

A Tale Of Two Cities – Las Vegas was recently deemed the most miserable city in the United States (followed by Riverside-CA, Sacramento-CA, Stockton-CA and Cape Coral-FL). The survey was basically based on the housing market and unemployment, not on quality of life. I think it would be fair to argue that if you are unemployed and underwater on your house, you’re going to be somewhat (or very) unhappy regardless of where you live. We unfortunately have more people in that category that just about anywhere else.

Vegas Visitation Numbers And Gaming Revenue Continues Upwards – It looks as though we’re going to match the all-time high of over 39 million visitors this year (a record which was set during the boom in 2007). Visitors aren’t spending as much and hotel rooms are about 25% cheaper than they were at that time, but honestly we have no business comparing those numbers to boom-times. The bottom line is that nearly 40 million of you are going through the arduous process of getting on an airplane or taking a long car ride to come enjoy Las Vegas!

While gaming numbers (the amount you leave behind at the tables and machines) was up only slightly on The Strip, it was up a whopping 10% (over July of last year) downtown. It isn’t because they have tightened everything up downtown. On the contrary, you’ll still find the loose machines and (generally) better table games on Fremont Street. It is simply a matter-of-fact that downtown is red-hot. Weekends, weeknights, it doesn’t matter. Long gone are the days when you could shoot a cannon down Fremont Street and not hit anyone.

Hilton Happy Hour Complimentary Pool Parties Still Going Strong – Guests and non-hotel guests alike are invited to enjoy pool-side happy hour and daily entertainment from 4:00PM to 8:00PM. Featuring 2-for-1 drink specials, food fresh from the baja strip, and live music plus daily drawings Date: Daily, Time: 4:00PM to 8:00PM, Price: No Fee, Location: 3rd Floor Pool Deck.

Cool By The Pool Features: 2-for-1 drink specials $2 shrimp cocktails $3 ceviche Live entertainment 5:30PM to 8:00PM Daily Drawings 7:00PM All guests are welcome! Nightly entertainment includes a live DJ and the local Las Vegas “Jimmy Buffett style” singer Tommy Rocker.

Back On The Air! – Throughout 2006 and into early 2007 I put out a podcast that received some nice comments. Between my workload at the time and the fact that internet broadcasting was still somewhat in infancy, I put it on hiatus. It seems like not a month or two goes by when I don’t still have a request about re-starting it and I’ve hinted that we’d be doing so in 2012. In the meantime…

Scott Whitney of Living In Las Vegas (on the Vegas Video Network) has asked me to join his show with a weekly call-in segment and I’m happy to be on board! This is the chance to hear me talk about the best Vegas tips and my personal insights similar to what we do in the newsletter, but with the ability to expound on points or perhaps include information that we just couldn’t squeeze in here. How to watch/listen:

  • Watch live online at 7:30 PM Pacific time each Tuesday at Vegas Video Network Live
  • The following day after each live show, you can watch it archived on the Living In Las Vegas page.
  • If you have iTunes, you can get the video or audio (only) version of the show. Simply go to iTunes and search for Living In Las Vegas.
  • If you have Roku (a really cool, simple device that let’s youáwatch Netflix plus tons of online content on your TV), look for the Vegas Video Network channel.

Thank You For Your Patronage – We’ve had some serious discussion the past couple of weeks about our pending plan to go to a paid-subscription model with this newsletter. Around spring of 2012, we’ll probably be splitting into a limited-info free model and a full-featured subscriber model (as it will take time to ramp up the new added-bonus subscriber features).

However, I’d be remiss in thanking those of you who have supported us over the years by booking through the links in the newsletter or going to AccessVegas.com to make your various reservations. In fact, I’m going to offer this to all: If you book through this newsletter (I’ll specify momentarily) with any of our advertisers or featured partners between now and when we go to the subscribership model, we’ll comp your first year. (And, we’ll create a similar program so that loyal customers are rewarded down the road with complimentary subscriptions).

It is as simple as this. Book any one of the following (you must use the links so our advertisers know we sent you):

  • ANYTHING in the right sidebar of this newsletter. The hotel links, show graphics, or concerts.
  • The featured tour of the week (changes with each week), or any tour on our AccessVegas.com Tours area.
  • Booking a limo from the airport using the limo ad below this section. Quite a few of you are doing this as it isn’t way more expensive than a cab, you have a driver waiting for you, and no worries about being long-hauled. Plus, what is cooler than pulling up to your hotel in a limo!
  • Not visiting Vegas (or are you such a player that everything is comped)? Go to Tickets.AccessVegas.com where we have tickets for just about every major sports event and concert in the United States (and beyond) and buy your tickets through that site. We get a cut of the sale, you get amazing seats, and you get your comped subscription.

If you do any of the above in the next few months leading up to our subscription model, save your confirmation email (even after the event/trip) and submit it to us once we start accepting subscribers, we’ll comp your first year. Simple as that. You help us, we’re pleased to help you!

Enjoy This Issue!

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Rick Ziegler

Skip the airport taxi hassles and arrive at your hotel in style:
Check out driver and limo service availability now!

 Book A Las Vegas Limo Today!

Margaritaville is Poised to Break the Guinness World Record for The Largest Margarita Ever Made, Becoming the Toast of the Las Vegas Strip – This October, in celebration of the Grand Opening for the new Margaritaville Casino at The Flamingo (click link to book) in Las Vegas, Margaritaville will attempt to break the current World Record for the largest margarita ever made as verified by Guinness World Records. One part opening celebration and over 2000 parts tequila, the two-story margarita will certainly be the talk (and toast!) of the town.

Carrot Top, Rice, and Company Celebrates Grand Opening and Launch Of The 2012 Fantasy Calendar – Rice & Company inside Luxor Hotel and Casino (click link to book) hosted its grand opening party September 21, 2011 and helped the women of FANTASY (click link to book) celebrate their 12-year anniversary and launch of the 2012 calendar. Plenty of Vegas celebrities including Carrot Top (click link to book) , Jeff Timmons from 98 Degrees and the dashing men of Thunder From Down Under (click link to book) showed up to celebrate the occasion at Rice & Company enjoying delectable sushi and sipping on succulent cocktails.

At The Gazillionaire’s Demand, Absinthe Will Make A Triumphant Return To The Shimmering Spotlight At Caesars Palace – Las Vegas has spoken! Due to critical acclaim and popular demand, ABSINTHE‘s (click link to book) filthy rich impresario, The Gazillionaire, has announced that Las Vegas’ ‘Best New Show’ will return to the spotlight at the glimmering epicenter of the Las Vegas Strip, the Roman Plaza at Caesars Palace. ABSINTHE will return to Sin City late-October, where the show’s outlandish acts will continue to captivate audiences and critics alike in a newly transformed venue, infused with mystique and intrigue.

Night School 4 Girls To Host Official Grand Opening At Excalibur Friday, October 7- Laura Croft, Holly Madison, Angel Porrino, Josh Strickland To Inaugurate Classes – Night School 4 Girls (click link to book) will celebrate its grand opening with a pink carpet and celebrity class hosted by Sin City party girl and reality superstar, Laura Croft, from E!’s ‘Holly’s World.’ Croft’s reality pals Holly Madison, Angel Porrino and Josh Strickland, also from E!’s ‘Holly’s World,’ will join her for the official Night School 4 Girls debut in the newly remodeled Thunder From Down Under Showroom at Excalibur Hotel & Casino at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7.

Rhumbar Introduces The Apple Pie Fall Cocktail – A New Liquid Twist on the Classic American Dessert – Mom’s apple pie has a little extra spice this season with the new ‘Apple Pie’ cocktail at RHUMBAR. The Mirage‘s (click link to book) stylish cocktail lounge will debut the cocktail just in time for the fall season, giving the traditional dessert a little Las Vegas kick.

The perfect mix of spiced rum and apple puree solidifies a taste that is enough to make the mouth water, while the trace of daiquiri adds delightful texture. The cocktail is creatively garnished with two slices of dried apple.

Ri Ra Las Vegas Adds Several Imported And Local Brews To The Pub’s Extensive Beer Selection – RÝ Rß Las Vegas, located inside The Shoppes at Mandalay Place (click link to book), enhances its beer collection with several new imported and local brews.

Among the new beers are several imported draft selections, including Porterhouse Porter, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Ayinger Oktoberfest. For a classic light stout, Porterhouse Porter is dry, clean and bitter without any sourness. This Irish microbrew has the added complexity of a late kettle hop with a sweet malt finish. Newcastle Brown Ale, an English brew, has a dark malt flavor with hints of caramel and toffee to accompany a slightly bitter aftertaste. Ayinger Oktoberfest, imported directly from Germany, is a flavor-rich brew with Munich malt flavors. Its low hop flavors and moderately low bitterness make it lightly sweet up front with a dry finish.

Canyon Dream Air and Land TourCanyon Dream Air and Land Tour û A 40-minute flight to the Grand Canyon South Rim aboard a Beechcraft 1900D aircraft starts your ultimate adventure. Upon landing, your excursion will begin with a seat on our state-of-the-art ECO-Star helicopter for an amazing 25-minute breathtaking helicopter experience over the Grand Canyon.

Click To Book Canyon Dream Air and Land Tour áNow!

What We’re Watching – Vegas Videos You’ll Enjoy

  • Legislators trying to ease visa process for foreign travelers – In a highly partisan climate, Nevada’s Congressional delegation says it has put party politics aside to help the ailing economy. ‘Tourism, as we all know in our economy, is the life blood of southern Nevada,’ said Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman. Goodman joined representatives from the major players in local tourism and U.S. Rep. Joe Heck to unveil legislation that was introduced into the House of Representatives Friday. The bill was co-sponsored by Heck and Rep. Shelley Berkley, a Democrat from southern Nevada. Read More…
  • New York New York – Did you know that New York, New York features the world’s first roller coaster ride that let’s riders experience the thrilling force of a negative G?! That’s like riding co-pilot in a jet fighter as it rolls 180 degrees and hangs 86 feet in the airà promising white knuckle thrills like no other! Afterwards, you might consider chasing that thrill with a visit to ‘The Sporting House Bar & Grill’ à where 130 televisions broadcast every game imaginable.
  • Behind the Scenes of Tournament of the Kings – Learn how this popular dinner show filled with live horses, swordfights, and spectacular effects comes together. Book Now and SAVE: Tournament of Kings
  • Famous Food at Serendipity 3: Heirloom Tomato Salad – Serendipity 3’s Chef Michael Wolf demonstrates how to make one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, the Heirloom Tomato Salad, made with burrata cheese, Marcona almonds, and an herb vinaigrette.

Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

We love all the up-dates on casinos in Las Vegas. We have been coming for 30 years. My best suggestion for Vegas would be to loosen up those slots! The word of “winning” is the supreme advertisement. In Oklahoma we have several Vegas level Native American casinos offering the same hotel and food comps. No airfare either. For us nothing is like Las Vegas, but we sure miss those Champion air $99 round trip flights.

Thanks,

Janice and Denver Flowers

 

Will be visiting Vegas in October. Lover your newsletter. Always very informative. Sorry to hear they are tearing down O’Shea’s. It seems that all the old Vegas is being torn down. Stay at IP or Harrah’s because they are centrally located.

Vegas is forgetting that the older people have kept Vegas alive. They tried to make Vegas a family place. That died. Now they are trying to make it a place for the younger set. What about us young Seniors who like to party and gamble? It seems Vegas is starting to overprice rooms, food and shows. Liked the old Vegas not all the high priced hotels and bigger shopping centers.

Will still visit Vegas until we can’t afford it. Now that most of the states have gambling we don’t have to go far to spend our money, receive comps and be treated well. We will have a Casino about 15 minutes away next year. We are also within a couple of hours drive for about 5 very nice Casino’s.

Two young Senior Citizens.

 

Stayed downtown at Fitz and as usual we were satisfied. Noise at front table games on the week end is awful. They turn the music up so loud behind the table games that I had to leave. The shows outside on the stage are getting very tacky. Almost embarrassing,

Thank God for the entertaining of COOL SAX. He is terrific but the barley covered girls on the stage are pitiful. Also ate at my favorite Chicago Joe’s. The food was excellent. Not too far from Fremont Experience and worth the little trip.

Gambling downtown is the best and I got very lucky at Four Queens. Love my July trip.. .will be back next year!

Barb B.

Massillon, Ohio

Ted Responds:

I usually don’t bunch the responses together, but all of these letters had a similar thread.

The days of $99 flights to Las Vegas went the same place at $1.99 per gallon gasoline. I remember regularly flying home to Portland, OR on Reno Air (anyone remember Reno Air?) for $99 round trip. Have to admit, I miss it also.

No question that tight slots are a major complaint, just as the newer table game rules that aren’t so player-friendly. The hotels blame the drop in how much people are playing on the recession. I blame part of it on how quickly you can burn through your entire day gaming budget. Why bother? Remember, downtown has consistently looser games than The Strip. I go to The Strip to lounge and see shows, and downtown to play.

Having said that, let’s look at playing at a Native American property. Some are even as fancy and nice as Las Vegas. With one glaring exception: They usually aren’t all bunched together. So… you go and you start playing and you start losing. Then what? Go eat? Walk a few laps around the joint? Sit back down and perhaps get your butt kicked some more (if you are having a particularly unlucky day)? Get in your car and drive an hour or two home again?

Despite the growth of all these other outlets, Las Vegas is on pace to welcome a near record number of visitors this year (and we might even pass the 39.2 million mark that was set in 2007). At the end of the day, there is no substitute for the real thing and your local gaming parlor isn’t going to give you the sheer thrill that all of the sights and attractions of Las Vegas will, with plenty to do and see if your luck isn’t happening.

No question that too many properties are forgetting that the average age of the Las Vegas visitor is 49 years old (a number I’m rapidly approaching). Look… I don’t mind some modern chill and ambient music while I’m having a cocktail. But I don’t want to hear DJ Scratchy-Scratch playing the best of Jay-Z and Ke$ha. I’ve heard of people who have been staying at Wynn/Encore since it opened and have moved on because the Encore Beach Club (pool party) draws too much of a Jersey Shore (TV show) crowd to what was an otherwise refined resort.

I was in The Stratosphere not too long ago on a weekday evening and saw something that startled me: A real live band playing the lounge. With real live people drinking, watching, and enjoying themselves. With this real live music drifting out onto the gaming floor. What a concept!

Downtown, the Fitzgerald’s, Binion’s Golden Gate, and Vegas Club all feature party pits with sexy ladies dealing and dancing to loud music. If that isn’t your cup of tea, many other properties like Four Queens and Fremont feature traditional gaming. No question the party pits are aimed at free-spending men who see it as an alternative to the even more expensive club. The nice thing about Las Vegas (and especially downtown) is that if you don’t like what you see, just walk next door! Try doing that an most Native American operations that are in the middle of nowhere.

Final piece of advice: If you’ve been a long-time player at a property and you don’t like changes that are being made, compose a snail mail (postal service) to the manager once you get home. Explain your long-time patronage and what is driving you away. Often, the decision makers have no clue what is really happening at their properties or why people are leaving to play elsewhere.

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

  • Want to comment on a current reader post? Use the comment box on that particular web page. Many of the stories we post also have comment boxes at the end of the story. Make your voice heard!
  • Drop us an email at AccessVegas@AccessVegas.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News – Shows – Events

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