Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 2, 2007

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

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


Book Online or over the phone! Call 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

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

Ted is on assignment this week. Please enjoy this newsletter prepared by staff.

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs


Featured Review:
Mac King’s Comedy Magic Show Leaves Everybody Happy

by Bethany Dixon

In the second row of Harrah’s Showroom Theatre, ten-year-old Micah Oka says, “My favorite trick is when you tell your friends’ future with their shoe. You hold the shoe and you say: You are going to go for a short trip verrrryyy soooooon…” He pauses for effect and stares very seriously over his Harry Potter-like glasses. “Then you throw their shoe so that they have to go get it! Get it!?” Micah grins, delighted. He’s been reading magical comedian Mac King’s books for half of his life, and getting the chance to see his mentor live is making it difficult for him to sit still. His enthusiasm is contagious, and the buzz in the purple and gold theatre is electric from those who know what they are about to see.

The Mac King show at Harrah’s Showroom Theatre is a stand-up comedy magic show. Mac King includes volunteers from the audience, a few props, and a surprising camping guest in his one-man act. The show has been running at one and three in the afternoon Tuesday through Saturday since January 11, 2000.

Click to Read Entire Mac King Comedy Magic Show Review…


Featured Review:
Bodies – The Exhibition Las Vegas Uncovers Wonders You Have Never Seen

by Mark Marino

Las Vegas has never been shy about showing off the human body, but Tropicana has given their guests a lifetime opportunity to view many bodies more intimately than ever before. BODIES is an eye widening exhibit that offers a compelling way to understand the amazing and complex layers of the human machine.

Through a process of special preservation, once dead body tissue is rubberized with a silicone polymer and resurrected to a live human form. The world of inventive science and modern medicine present itself in a museum full of real bodies and parts. The entire body is dissected and reassembled for an absolutely lucid and intriguing look at everything piece by piece. Often times these specimens are completely out in the open, allowing guests to get as close as they like and stare without hesitation into the intricate structures that belong to all of us.

Click to Read Entire Bodies – The Exhibition Review…


Robin Williams Returns To MGM Grand For Memorial Day Weekend Performance Sunday, May 25 – Robin Williams, one of the most gifted actors and comedians of our time, returns to the MGM Grand Garden Arena for a Memorial Day Weekend performance Sunday, May 25. (Tickets) The show is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Academy Award-winner and Grammy winner Robin Williams began his career as a stand-up comedian and has created a repertoire of indelible characters, first in the hit series “Mork & Mindy” and then in numerous film roles. Click to Read The Full Story …

Register now for the 2008 Zappos.com Las Vegas Marathon – Runners are encouraged to visit www.lvmarathon.com before March 31 to register for the 2008 Zappos.com Las Vegas Marathon. Currently, registration is $85 for the full marathon and $75 for the half marathon. On April 1, fees for the 2008 Marathon will increase to $95 for the full marathon and $85 for the half marathon. Contrary to previous years, the 2008 Zappos.com Las Vegas Marathon is limiting the number of participants. Once 20,000 runners are signed up for the full and half marathon combined, registration will be closed. Click to Read The Full Story …

Mega Bubble Show Opens At The Steve Wyrick Theatre, Planet Hollywood Hotel And Casino – Fresh off an appearance on the Oprah show, Fan Yang and his MEGA BUBBLE SHOW burst onto the Vegas Strip. (Tickets) The first and only interactive stage production of its kind, complete with spectacular light effects, dazzling lasers, and awesome displays of bubble mastery, this unforgettable experience is not to be missed. The MEGA BUBBLE SHOW will be making its Las Vegas debut with thirteen shows a week in the $35 million dollar Steve Wyrick Theatre in Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino beginning February 2, 2008 and will feature Fan Yang, the production’s creator and 14-time Guinness World Record holder. Click to Read The Full Story …

Strange Brew is playing Roxy’s Lounge at Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall every Friday and Saturday night from 10:30 pm-3 am. – Strange Brew brings a level of energy, musical accolades and talent to every performance that is unrivaled in their musical arena. This group of dynamic performers has a repertoire of nearly 80 songs and the musical depth to perform classic rock hits others consider off limits. Their sets include challenging favorites such as Boston, Journey, Toto, AC/DC and more.

The Rio’s Village Seafood Buffet In Las Vegas Debuts – Las Vegas’ Only Seafood Buffet Features Interactive Sushi Stations, Sommeliers and More Than 13,000 Square Feet and 200 Tons of Fresh Seafood from Every Corner of the Earth. Having taken the buffet concept to new heights, the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is set to once again redefine the category with the Village Seafood Buffet’s that is NOW OPEN. Click to Read The Full Story …

MGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris Announce The Winners Of The First Ever American AuditionsMGM Grand’s Crazy Horse Paris and special guest judge, Dita Von Teese announced the winners of the cabaret’s first ever American auditions at Tab· Ultra Lounge Thursday, March 6. (Tickets) More than 50 dancers vied for a spot in the elite dance troupe, but after a three-day audition process, four women were chosen to join the Crazy Horse Paris family. The winners are Krystle Richeson from Virginia Beach, VA; Elena Lee Rodriguez from Miami, FL; Polina Volchek from Las Vegas, NV and Kara McKinney from Roanoke, VA. Click to Read The Full Story …

Wolfgang Puck’s CUT Opens At The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino – CUT, Wolfgang Puck’s critically acclaimed, Beverly Hills steakhouse, is now open at The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino. CUT in Las Vegas is the second location for master chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck’s award-winning Beverly Hills steakhouse. Widely acknowledged as one of the most popular restaurants in the United States, CUT in Beverly Hills has raised the bar within the fine dining industry and has garnered high praise from prestigious publications including the New York Times, Los Angeles Times (Three Stars), Wall Street Journal and Wine Spectator and was named one of the top three steakhouses in America by Bon AppÚtit Magazine. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Video Keno – Part Ten – with Victor H. Royer. Video Keno Strategy Continued- While Video Keno is not necessarily among the best games that may be available — odds wise when seen from that perspective — it isn’t one of the worst games either. There are many video poker versions, for example, whose payback percentages are a lot worse than those in Video Keno, while the odds of winning something are thousands of times longer than their comparable cash-equivalent wins in Video Keno. Click to Read Complete Article…


More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Coming Hot Holidays – The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at Las Vegas Hotel Deals and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 11
  • Victoria Day, Canada May 17-19 (3 day weekend)
  • Memorial Day May 24-26 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 15
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4-6 (3 day weekend)
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 2-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada August 30-September 1 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparent’s Day September 7
  • Jewish New Year September 30
  • Yom Kippur October 9
  • Columbus Day October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Thanksgiving Day, Canada October 11-13 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
  • Hanukkah Dec. 22 – Dec. 29
  • Christmas December 25
  • New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 – January 1
  • Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
  • Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
  • Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
  • Valentine’s Day February 14
  • President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
  • Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
  • St. Patrick’s Day March 17
  • Easter Sunday April 12

Link To Us! – Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed – We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend!


For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

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All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

April 2, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 19, 2003

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

This newsletter is published exclusively for visitors to AccessVegas.Com and can only be signed up for there. We do not buy or rent lists, and this information is only for our members and guests. If you feel you have received it in error, click the unsubscribe link at the bottom. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

Featured Story:
Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas

Also In This Issue – Nov. 19, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, Megabucks Hits, Cheap Meal Deals, Thanksgiving, Free Golf Lessons, $100 Rebate, Video Spotlight, More

Book online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining.

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

Hello from Las Vegas! The national news has been chasing Michael Jackson all over town. Never a dull moment here.

Got a couple of great feedback emails this week:

Myron Shulman had me laughing with this one (regarding Treasure Island now calling itself TI): I also heard rumors that MGM/Mirage plans to re-do the Mirage motif. All references to the south seas, as well as tigers, will be removed. What will they do with the tigers? They will need to come-up with a new name, too. They probably will call it “MI” as it’s next to “TI”. They can call the area “Mi-Ti“.

Frank Coccho wrote: Your newsletter is the best….very helpful and informative; packed with ideas, hints, etc. Keep up the great work!!!!

We appreciate the feedback and suggestions you send to allvegastv@aol.com and if you have Vegas questions or comments, please post them to our Vegas Travel Boards.

Megabucks Hits – A 69-year old retired Marine won $19.6 million playing this progressive state-wide slot at The Stardust this past Friday. Read full story …

Thanksgiving Weekend – is Nov. 27 – 30. Almost all of the hotel restaurants from the buffets to the fine dining houses host a Thanksgiving menu, and the town is full of people taking advantage of a four day weekend. Many get their family and friends all together to meet in Las Vegas! Check room rates now.

Cheap Meal Deals Updated – Our comprehensive list of cheap meal deals is a must-have for your coming visit. Click to view Cheap Meal Deals and use the printable version for your next trip.

Las Vegas Golf Lessons: Aim – We’ve teamed up with Revere Anthem Golf Club Director of Instruction Chris Eastman (in conjunction with ChefLive.com) and put together a series of eight streaming video golf tips.

Chris starts with fundamentals like aim and grip, and works through some of the finer points of the game. This week: Lesson 2 – Grip. Click to view lessons.

Searching For My Lost Shaker Of Salt – Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville is scheduled to open December 11 inside the Flamingo Las Vegas. The multi-level restaurant will serve Caribbean/American style cuisine, host nightly live music and entertainment and house the largest Margaritaville retail store.

Can’t wait? Check out our Parrothead Paradise photos from last summer in our Las Vegas Event Photos area. Also enjoy our streaming video coverage: Dial-Up or Broadband. Parrotheads: Forward this info, and feel free to link to it!

$100 Rebate Returns – Get up to a $100 rebate when booking hotels in the U.S. and worldwide on your next trip! This on top of great deals and low rates. Must book through this special rebate coupon link. Make sure to print out. Great thing about this offer? The rebate is credited back to your credit card within three weeks of submission. Solid deal.

Palms 1/2 Price Buffet – Guests to the Palms Casino Resort can enjoy the Fantasy Market Buffet for half-price November 24 – 26, Monday – Wednesday. The Fantasy market Buffet is open for breakfast Monday -Friday, 7 -10:30 a.m.; Lunch Monday – Friday 11a.m. ¡ 3 p.m. and dinner Saturday ¡ Thursday, 4-10 p.m. Click for Palms Casino Resort info.

Video Spotlight – We are always adding new streaming video to our All Vegas TV site, over 100 Las Vegas videos to date! This week, feature video is Hotel San Remo. Check out a video preview: Dial-Up or Broadband


á See the Grand Canyon in a Jet Helicopter! For years Maverick Helicopters has been providing a true VIP Helicopter experience of the Grand Canyon. We do things a little different than any other helicopter Company. We give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Las Vegas Strip tours plus Helicopter Weddings also available!

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Click To Read Latest News:

Travel Agents – We have a special offer of you. Please read it at the end of this newsletter.


Caribbean Hotels On Sale – Save Up To 45%

Aruba? Jamaica? Travelocity has the deals to take you! Book your stay in the Caribbean and save up 45% during peak season, with hotel rates starting at just $61 per night. Choose from Wyndham, Sun Village, and Divi Resorts at some of the top destinations in the Caribbean, including St. Maarten, Grand Cayman, St. Thomas, and more. Book now and enjoy a peak-season getaway at an off-season price.


Featured Story:
Illusionary Magic of Rick Thomas

Quick Show Info: Our Full Review, Show Tickets, Free Streaming Video (Dial-Up or Broadband)

Magician Rick Thomas just celebrated six years of wowing crowds with his afternoon show at The Tropicana. I’ve seen the show before and this great show just gets better with age.

Rick takes the audience on a magical journey, weaving music, magic, dance and exotic animals that in many ways is more reminiscent of an evening show, but without the evening show price. If you’ve seen the show before, you have two great reasons to see it again. New Illusions “Street Beat” and “Incredible Shrinking Tiger.” Read More …


Click For Great Las Vegas Hotel Values


Frequently Asked Questions:

Best Hotels | Cheapest Seasons | Finding Best Rates | What To Wear | Getting Around Town | Dining Resources | Las Vegas Weather | Tipping Guide | Concierge Service | Vegas For Families | How To Gamble | Where to Gamble | Casino Comps | Players (Slot) Clubs | Adult/Topless Shows | Strip Clubs | Escorts/Prostitution | Online Booking 101 | Living In Las Vegas | Moving To Las Vegas

Vegas Questions? Post to our message boards and get great advice from people who have been here and done it.

For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. Include your city — we have readers worldwide!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor
http://www.accessvegas.com

New to the list? Click Here for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000! Click Here To Win

Attention Travel Agents: Tired of fighting the airlines and internet travel eroding your business? Let us help! What if you were guaranteed respectable commissions on not just hotels, but shows, tours, golf, dining and more? Not just in Vegas, but resorts across the US including Hawaii!No starting costs, maintenance fees, or minimums. Oh, and we won’t steal your customers. Our “customer for life” policy guarantees you get paid even if they book direct, time after time. Email us now: allvegastv@aol.com (subject line Travel Agent). We’ll get the details right to you.

All contents copyright 2003 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
November19, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 18, 2003

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe or unsubscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

This Issue: Mama Mia!

Also In This Issue – June 18, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, News Of Interest To Tourists

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

Hello from Las Vegas! The rumble you hear isn’t an earthquake. It is us getting ready to launch all of our new community features! New Message Boards, Games (play for fun and points/prizes blackjack, video poker, more), Free Email (yourname@accessvegas.com), Members Photo Albums (post photos of your last trip!) and more.

Sign up now! Membership is absolutely free. Present message board members (or just those who want to know more): See our note to you at the bottom of the newsletter.

Mystere 4500’th Show – Congratulations to Mystere at Treasure Island on the celebration of 4500 shows! This is the show that proved elaborate, theatre style concept based entertainment would work in the land of the (then) $3 late night steak dinner and paved the way “O”, Blue Man Group, Celine Dion’s concept concert performance, and more. I consider this show a must see, but buy those tickets in advance. This is a popular show!


See the Grand Canyon in a Jet Helicopter! For years Maverick Helicopters has been providing a true VIP Helicopter experience of the Grand Canyon. We do things a little different than any other helicopter Company. We give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Las Vegas Strip tours plus Helicopter Weddings also available!

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Wheel Of Fortune/Vanna White At Harrah’s – ôWheel of Fortuneö and Vanna White will be at HarrahÆs Las VegasÆ Carnival Court to give away $100,000 on Saturday, June 28, 2003. The festivities will begin at 1p.m. in Carnival Court with an appearance and question and answer session with White.

ôWheel of FortuneÆsö visit to HarrahÆs Las Vegas will culminate when the $100,000 winner is revealed live on the Carnival Court stage. In addition to the $100,000 grand prize, someone in attendance will win a trip for two to visit the ôWheel of Fortuneö set in Culver City, Calif., along with $1,000 in spending cash. Read More …

Jimmy Buffet At MGM September 20 – Tickets go on sale Saturday, June 21 at 10 a.m. and are priced at $200, $100 and $65, not including applicable service charges. Ticket sales are limited to four (4) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. Read More …

Find out all of the great concerts and headliners coming to town in our Las Vegas Concert Calendar

Las Vegas Pool Parties – Las Vegas gets hot in the summer and hotel and resort swimming pools are jammed with hotel guests. However, on selected nights these hotels open up their pool to the public! This is a great time to have some summer fun as the sun goes down and see what other hotels and resorts look like. Read Listings …

Caribbean Stud Jackpot Hits For $184,780 – Tropicana casino guest, Perry Milliman, took home the grand prize of $184,780 from the Tropicana Resort and CasinoÆs Progressive Caribbean Stud Poker table game. Mr. Milliman bet a total of $100 before coming up with a hand consisting of the royal flush in diamonds. Read More (with photo) …

Tropicana Swim-Up Blackjack Open – Swim-up blackjack, the coolest game in town, is open for daily play. Guests are invited to make a big splash at the popular outdoor table game with bet limits of $5-$50. Must be at least 21 years old to play. Read More (with photo) …

“Tom Jones” Comes To Legends In Concert – “I’m living a dream.” That’s how Steve McCoy describes his performance tribute to Tom Jones. Steve, who wins audiences young and old with his startling sound and resemblance to the real thing, credits the famous Welshman for his career. Steve won a look-alike, sound-alike contest sponsored by a Philadelphia radio station hands down when one of the judges (Tom Jones) commented Steve was the best. Read More (with photo) …

Las Vegas Online Store Open – Visit our AccessVegas.Com Store, where you can get that “Vegas Feeling” by ordering our great logo products. Shirts, cold weather wear (for when you can’t come warm up here), coffee cups, teddy bears … even sexy undies bring Las Vegas close to you!

Do you really want to save?


We are pleased to have a review by our Senior’s Las Vegas Newsletter Editor Ted Sherman as well as a blurb of his on Madame Tussaud’s. This new, free newsletter launched with almost 1500 subscribers last week and that count is growing steadily! If you are 55+ or just enjoy Las Vegas and good writing, check out the premiere issue. You canásign up here.

Featured Story: Mama Mia!

By Ted Sherman

What do you get when you put on a Broadway-style musical that features a hotel in Greece owned by an American woman, whose daughter’s father 21 years ago could have been one of three of the single mamma’s lovers, one each British, Australian and American? Did I mention that the play’s title is Italian, and the music is from the popular 1970s Swedish group, ABBA, (Dancing Queen, Thank You For The Music, etc.)?What you get from that mix is Mamma Mia, a fantastically popular show that currently plays to packed audiences at the Mandalay Bay Resort.

My daughter and I recently attended a performance. She’s a young TV comedy writer, and we sat down later to compare intergenerational opinions. Before the curtain rose, I feared that my stage musical preferences, except maybe for Cats and Les Miserables, had ended in the 1960s, when Rogers and Hammerstein broke up.

My daughter recently spent five years in NYC, living just a short hike from the theater district. In addition to being an expert on the current entertainment scene, she knows Broadway history. At age three, she had already memorized the entire scores of Bye, Bye Birdie, Oliver, Mame, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and other shows of the era.

My opinion is that Mamma Mia started slowly as the basic story was explained. Then after several quiet love songs, it exploded into highly-entertaining, toe-tapping musical numbers. Sorry, Oscar and Richard, but I believe the guys and gals who put this show together and performed it are every bit as original and entertaining as your creations.

My expert daughter patiently explained to her dad that the first 15 minutes were intentionally expository (All right, I said slow) so that the audience would understand the very complex relationships among the single mother, her daughter and the three maybe dads. We both agreed that once the lively dancing and singing numbers took over, we were totally entranced. Final father-daughter opinion: Go grABBA cab, plane, auto or bus, and wind your way to Mandalay Bay without delay to see Mamma Mia!

Mama Mia! Las Vegas: Show Times and Reservations

Now That’s a Waxy Build-UpMadame Tussaud’s London-based Wax Museum just announced it’ll soon display a replica of teen singer/rocker Britney Spears. Unlike non-moving images of such famed female celebrities as Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Di and Margaret Thatcher, Britney’s wax figure will feature inflated breasts (chest breathing) that vibrate to an accompanying sound track.Although it may be some time before a wax copy of Britney’s animated anatomy arrives here, check out Madame Tussaud’s everyday exhibit at the Venetian on your next Vegas visit.

Bring your camera, because you’ll have a ball shooting cheek-to-cheek pix with the waxy likenesses of Sinatra, Elvis, Streisand, Newton, Whoopie and many others.

Message Board Members – Very, very important: The old board (and posts) are gone because they didn’t mesh with our new comprehensive member community. Sorry but no way to save them so we are starting from scratch. That also means all user names are up for grabs, so go to the registration area and register the user name you want ASAP!

This will let you start posting to the new message boards and as well as play our new free games. Anyone signing up this week will get 1000 credits to play with (instead of the usual 200 new users get). Next week, we’ll tell you how to earn more credits (hint: visiting certain parts of our site, participating in the forums) and will soon be awarding weekly and monthly prizes to those with the most credits gained!

Note: The user name will also become username@accessvegas.com if you choose to use our new free email service (coming soon).

For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. Include your city — we have readers worldwide!

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor
http://www.accessvegas.com

New to the list? Click Here for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000! Click Here To Win

All contents copyright 2003 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
June 18, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 21, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others in its entirety. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

THIS ISSUE: La Femme




NEWKIRK’S NOTES – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello from Las Vegas! I’m back from a week in Florida to stick my toes in the sand and get a little rest and relaxation. It was interesting to be in traditionally hot and humid Florida and see places like Philadelphia, Boston, and even Bangor, Maine hotter than Florida and with a heat index above Las Vegas. Whew … I bet you guys are happy to see fall on the horizon!

Flying was uneventful. I continue to show up 1.5 hours before flights, clearing security in 15 minutes or less. I had a bit of a layover at Hartsfield (Atlanta) airport on the way down so I left the secure terminal area, got in line, went through security there in … 12 minutes. I should note that I usually travel midweek. If you are flying Friday noon or later, Sunday evening, or Monday morning you might want to follow the 2 hour rule just in case. In my book, flying is easier now than it was a year ago and you can’t keep me out of the skies, whether it is vacation or visiting family and friends.

CHEAP FOOD AND BOOZE – You’ve heard about all the great food specials and cheap booze in Las Vegas. But then you just end up paying $10 for a coffee shop sandwich because you didn’t know a $5 steak dinner was right next door. Or you pay $4.50 for a beer because you didn’t know which casinos have $1 beer. Not any more you don’t! Check out our new Food Specials section at Meal Deals — we even have a printable version you can print out and stuff in your suitcase. Enjoy!

MONORAIL – Construction on Las Vegas monorail is moving right along. The monorail will run from The Sahara south with stops at Las Vegas Hilton, Convention Center, Harrah’s, Flamingo, Bally’s and MGM. Scheduled completion is early 2004 and there is talk of extending it north to downtown and south to the airport. More info at Monorail

BEST BUFFET – You voted and the results are in! Bellagio Buffet topped the list with 24% of the vote, followed by Rio Seafood Buffet (18%), and Paris Las Vegas Buffet (13%). Honorable mention to Aladdin at 12%. This month, stop by AccessVegas.com and cast your vote on “What is the best Las Vegas area scenic attraction?”

NEW LIMO SEARCH – We have made it much easier to check limo rates, and you might be surprised at how inexpensive they are here. Grab a couple of friends to split the cost or treat that special lady to a special ride and live it up! Limo info at Limo

THERE ARE NO STUPID QUESTIONS – We are putting together a huge (and I mean HUGE) Frequently Asked Questions area on AccessVegas.com and we need your help! We live here, and that is a huge advantage when it comes to providing you firsthand information. We also understand our town can be overwhelming!

If getting ready for your first ever visit, what are you are wondering about, or want to be better prepared for? If you are a Vegas veteran visitor, what are some of the things you wished you knew ahead of time? What caught you off guard? What are you still curious about? Please ask us at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com so we can build the most helpful site possible. Plus, we’ll do our best to answer your questions and concerns personally.

RESTAURANT REVIEW – Chef John says about McCormick and Schmick’s: “The selection of items on their menu can’t be beat in Las Vegas where seafood is concerned. Oysters, clams, mussels, lobster, shrimp, King crab, salmon, tuna etc. For the meat eaters they have some great cuts of meat and a wonderful rack of lamb.” Read his full review with photos at http://www.accessvegas.com/restaurants/mccormick-schmicks-seafood.htm

SHRINKING TIGER – is the latest illusion from Rick Thomas, whose great magic show plays twice each afternoon (dark Fridays) at The Tropicana. Thomas takes a live 500 pound royal white Bengal tiger and turns it into cuter, much smaller live tiger. This is an afternoon show that borders on evening show quality for a very modest afternoon price. Our review and ticket information at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/rick-thomas-magic-las-vegas-shows.htm

LAS VEGAS SEARCH – If you visit AccessVegas.com regularly (and you should … we always add great new stuff), you have noticed our Las Vegas Search box on every page. This new search box is your gateway to Las Vegas info from a number of top tourism resources. If you have a website or home page, we’ve made the code available for free so you can add this great search tool to your site! Grab it now at Search

LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS – AccessVegas.com Food Guide Chef John Guinivere and his ChefLive.com are on track to bring live cooking shows to you from Las Vegas via streaming video. Programming will originate from the new AQUA Center under construction near the posh Anthem area of the city (10 minutes from The Strip by freeway).

ChefLive.com will feature chefs from AQUA Center’s eight new restaurants along with other Las Vegas chefs and special visitors from famous restaurants around the world. Surrounding the studio will be gourmet food boutiques offering wonderful food products in a bright farmers market setting with a Provence accent. Details at http://www.cheflive.com/cheflivtv.com.html and you can enjoy Chef John’s recommended restaurants at http://www.accessvegas.com/restaurants/las-vegas-restaurant-dining-reviews.htm

SUBSCRIPTION “DUES” – This newsletter is absolutely free! We enjoy bringing you great Las Vegas information. If you enjoy our newsletter, we ask two small things: Consider booking your hotels, shows, and tours through AccessVegas.com or the links in this newsletter. We have great rates and fantastic selection in every category. Also, turn your friends on to Las Vegas by forwarding a copy to them and suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.




SHOW REVIEW: La Femme

Last year, MGM put one of the final nails in the “family friendly” Las Vegas concept by closing their theme park and it is probably no coincidence Le Femme (pronounced La Fawm) opened around the same time. Unlike many Las Vegas shows which were inspired by famous productions, this is the original Crazy Horse show that has been titillating France since 1951. The name change was simply to avoid comparison with a local strip club of similar name.

The dancers are from the original troupe and meet rigorous specifications to get this prized job. You won’t see any bad boob jobs here. You won’t see any body modification, for that matter. The emphasis is on a natural, slender female form and dancers must be under 25 to be hired. La Femme is the unabashed celebration of the natural female nude.

The show is art. Each number is choreographed and lit in a way unique to La Femme. This isn’t a peep show, nor a jiggle show. During some of the numbers, you are taken to a place in your mind where you almost forget that nearly nude females are the centerpiece. This is not a bachelor party “whoop and holler” event.

The show is also erotic. The first number “God Save Our Bareskins” puts a new twist on the changing of the guard. Numbers like “See Thru, Peek-A-Boo” and “Vestal’s Desire” highlight the sexuality just by the titles (not to mention the shimmering female figures onstage).

The La Femme theatre was designed to re-create the Crazy Horse located on Avenue George V in Paris. The stage, design, fabric, colors and tabletops duplicate the original and this intimate theatre seats only patrons.

This is an upscale presentation geared to those looking for an artistic experience, a sampling for foreign culture, and a large dose of natural female form. Must be 21 to attend. Unlike the original, this one does not feature full nudity because of local laws. However, it comes very close.

La Femme plays at the MGM Hotel and Casino. For current times and ticket prices, please click Le Femme and enter the dates of your visit to display prices and availability.

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Show Review Criteria: We understand that Las Vegas attracts visitors of varied budgets and interests. Shows are reviewed on the basis of value for dollar spent as well as to present the reader enough knowledge of the content to make an informed decision.

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at Shows
* HEADLINERS – listings available at Headliners
* CONCERTS – listings available at Concerts

For comments or questions regarding the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms
* Discount Rental Cars
* Tours – Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, More
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air)
* Toll Free Discount Room Hotline: TOLL FREE 1-888-254-0637, USA and Canada. 561-845-8899, International. Give Promo Code 4558 when calling.

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved. August 21, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 31, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 80 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others in its entirety. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

THIS ISSUE: Summer Beat The Heat Issue


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


NEWKIRK’S NOTES – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello from Las Vegas! It’s been a little warm, but I’m going to say it: It is a dry heat. The past couple of weeks many U.S. cities have been sweltering under 95 degree temperatures with devistating humidity. I’ll take our 105 and bone dry anytime. Here’s a tip for you: Some of the lowest rates of the year here are in the summer. If you have to be hot, might as well be here on vacation by the pool!

For those who enjoy more moderate temperatures, now is the time to extend your summer this fall. Our average October high is 84 and this brings flocks of visitors from areas the weather has already chilled. That and betting on college football games! The key to locking in great fall rates here is to book NOW. The longer you wait, the higher the rates are going to climb. Check our rates at Rates

FLAMINGO FIESTA – Enjoy great food, beer and other beverages from Mexico in The Flamingo’s restaurants and bars and recieve a free scratch card to win instant prizes including beverages, merchandise or vacations to Mexico. Every card is a winner and the Flamingo Room, Lindy’s (coffee shop) and the buffet have special Mexican menus.

HAWAIIAN TROPIC – Western Regional Pageant semi-finals are being held every Saturday night poolside at Bally’s through Aug. 31. Tickets are $25 and includes two drinks ($15 with no drinks).

WIN SINATRA JR. TICKETS – If you have yet to enter, you have only a few hours left to enter to win Frank Sinatra Jr. tickets for his upcoming engagement at the MGM. He is singing his father’s songs with full 36-piece orchestra. Enter or learn more about this show at Sinatra Jr.

TAXI DRIVERS – finally got busted. I’ve been ranting here forever about how they are screwing you guys over with long rides (without your consent to the alternate routing). The Taxi Authority did undercover work and found that 60-80% of the rides from the airport to The Strip went south through the airport tunnel instead of north toward The Strip. This has been costing riders 35-60% more. A full story from the local paper is available at Taxi Driversl We continue to suggest renting a car, which costs about the price of a couple cab rides a day. Especially at this rate!

SPLASH SUMMER SPECIAL – See Splash at the Riviera through August 31, 2002 and eat at the buffet for free! Splash is the topless show with the most variety of entertainment: with gorgeous showgirls in glamorous costumes, world-class ice skaters, motorcycle daredevils, and the hottest specialty acts on the strip. Book now at Splash

HILTON BUFFET – changed it’s look a while back, but kept the quality. We stopped in for Sunday Brunch and really enjoyed it. $12.99 for champaign bruch featuring all of your breakfast favorites, ommelettes cooked to order, a full salad bar including cheeses, plenty of fresh fruit, peeled shrimp, lox, a nice variety of Asian delights and a full desert area. Well worth the money and then some, and the new decor is more modern and very comfortably upscale.

9/11 – I’ll be flying on 9/11 this year. I had a trip that was bringng me back September 10 and jumped at the chance to extend it a day. Crazy? No. Crazy is those who haven’t flown because of months old airport horror stories. If you are just plain scared to fly, I respect that people have various fears. If not, get on a plane. I’m spending far less time clearning security than before Sept. 11 of last year as are most travelers I talk to.

RESTAURANTS – Our Food Guide Chef John Guinivere continues to make the rounds and report on great Las Vegas dining opportunities. Recently reviews are Andre’s French Restaurant (one of the top restaurants in town, period) and Mr. Lucky’s at the Hard Rock. Those and more at Restaurants

ROCKIN’ UNDER THE STARS – Caesars Palace presents a weekend of music, dancing and celebration. This two-night All-Star Concert Series event will feature Dennis Quaid & The Sharks Saturday, Aug. 31, and Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts Sunday, Sept. 1, with opening act Vesica Pisces both nights. Reserved-seat tickets are priced at $25 (plus handling) and can be purchased by calling (702) 731-7333

POOL PARTY – The Plaza (downtown) has a free pool party on the sports deck of the Hotel on Thursday nights. The Party is for Adults only 21 or older and features wet T-shirt contests, water balloon tosses, limbo and hula hoop contests. There is a disc jockey, dancing as well as specially priced food and drink.

CREOLE HEAT – New show features a slice of life in New Orleans, Broadway-style served cajun hot featuring laughter, song, drama and delight! Get swept away in this alternative and refreshing production! 7:30 pm nightly except Wednesday in the Big Easy Showroom at the Bourbon Street Hotel & Casino. $29.95 plus tax & gratuity includes 2 free drinks. Dinner packages available. Creole Heat for tickets and info.

TEQULA JOE’S – Imperial Palace now has a nightclub. Tequila JoeÆs features a fabulous Daiquiri Bar, great food and a nightly dance scene that is far from the ordinary. The Center Strip location features state-of-the-art sound system, spinning the best of Top 40, house and hip hop, live DJÆs Friday and Saturday nights. It sounds like they are trying to give Harrah’s Carnival Court a run for their money and we’ll be down to check it out soon.

CHICK SINGER NIGHT – Female musicians looking for a venue to showcase their talent now have the perfect place at the Palms Casino Resort with Chick Singer Night (CSN). The Las Vegas debut of CSN takes place Monday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. in the Palapa Lounge. CSN will be held the first Monday of each month for the next three months at the Palms. CSN is open to the public and is free of charge. Singers of all levels of experience, from the aspiring beginner to the seasoned professional, are invited to sing any style of music.

MAGIC ALL-STARS – has opened at the Frontier. It appears they are taking a “comedy club” approach to magic. Host Paull Casas will feature a variety rotating magic acts, both known and unknown. The show plays every Friday at 2 PM. The price is right: $14.95 which includes two drinks. Suitible for all ages, children under five are admitted free.

LINK AND WIN – How do free show tickets sound? Maybe a stunning night helicopter flight over The Strip! How would you like to be automatically entered every quarter (4 times a year) into our drawing for these great prizes? If you have a website or homepage you can enter to win these are more just by linking to us! Full details at Link and Win

SUBSCRIPTION “DUES” – This newsletter is absolutely free! We enjoy bringing you great Las Vegas information. If you enjoy our newsletter, we ask two small things: Consider booking your hotels, shows, and tours through AccessVegas.com or the links in this newsletter. We have great rates and fantastic selection in every category. Also, turn your friends on to Las Vegas by forwarding a copy to them and suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.


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


SHOW REVIEW:

Instead of a show review this issue, I thought I’d give you some ideas for great things to see this summer and early fall in Las Vegas. Both things to stay indoors and “beat the heat” as well as interesting outdoor activites and when to do them.

Stratosphere Tower — The tower has both indoor and outdoor viewing areas so this is a great thing to see no matter what time of day. However, we suggest getting there about an hour before sunset and enjoy watching the entire Strip light up from the lounge. You can enjoy a cool drink in climate controlled area with a million dollar view. Then after the sun dips, head out to the outdoor observation deck and experience the open-air view. To determine sunset for the days you will be here, click to http://www.weather.com/weather/climatology/daily/89121?climoMonth=8

Bellagio Fountains and Fontana Lounge – The Fountains of Bellagio go off every 30 minutes from noon until dusk and then every 15 minutes until midnight. The water creates a cooling effect for those watching it. You can view it from the street or from the Fontana Lounge in evening. The Fontana is one of the nicest lounges in the city, with an outdoor area overlooking the lake and fountains.

Helicopter Flights – You probably have extra cash in your pocket because your room rate is so reasonable during the summer. Use that money to jump on one of Maverick Helicopter’s air conditioned jet helicopters for a beautiful flight over and into the Grand Canyon. If you choose a flight with a stop at the bottom of the Canyon, you will find it not only stunning on the eyes, but comfortably cool as well. Click to http://www.accessvegas.com/tours/las-vegas-grand-canyon-tours.htm

Go Shopping – Las Vegas has some of the most incredible shopping malls in the world with various free shows and events on a regular basis. Caesars Forum Shops have various shows occuring every hour. Desert Passage at Aladdin has Arabian music, belly dancing, and more. The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian is a taste of Venice with strolling performers and a canal down the middle of the entire mall. These malls have all been built with a nice “outdoor” feel to them and if shopping is not your thing, sit at one of the cafes or restaurants and just enjoy people watching.

Treasure Island Pirate Show – plays at 5:30 PM., 7:00 PM., 8:30 PM., 10:00 PM. and 11:30 PM. The show is free right out in front of Treasure Island. You’ll want to get a good viewing spot at least 30 minutes before the show starts, so plan to see one of the last two shows so you aren’t standing in the blazing sun. Because of the lights and pyrotechnics, the show is much more spectacular after dark.

MGM Lion Habitat — is free and indoors. Open starting at 11 AM, this is a great “beat the heat” activity and a chance to view live lions up close.

We have additional information on fun Las Vegas activities (many indoors) at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/las-vegas-attractions.htm

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Show Review Criteria: We understand that Las Vegas attracts visitors of varied budgets and interests. Shows are reviewed on the basis of value for dollar spent as well as to present the reader enough knowledge of the content to make an informed decision.

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at Shows
* HEADLINERS – listings available at Headliners
* CONCERTS – listings available at Concerts

For comments or questions regarding the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms
* Discount Rental Cars
* Tours – Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, More
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air)
* Toll Free Discount Room Hotline: TOLL FREE 1-888-254-0637, USA and Canada. 561-845-8899, International. Give Promo Code 4558 when calling.

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

July 31, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 10, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 80 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others in its entirety. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com

THIS ISSUE: Mystere by Cirque du Soleil




NEWKIRK’S NOTES – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello from Las Vegas! You may have noticed no specials at the top of the newsletter anymore. Yes, there are plenty of great deals — that was the problem. People complained because some of the deals listed sold out pretty quickly, and assumed there were no others. In reality, we have tons of great rates all the time — all you have to do is visit AccessVegas.com and click on one of the discount room buttons or links to check rates for your next stay!

BEST BUFFET – Time to get your votes in. In this month’s AccessVegas.com poll we are asking you which buffet you prefer. Make sure to make your voice heard at AccessVegas.com Last months results are in regarding your favorite place to view the city: The Stratosphere Tower was #1 with 45% of the vote, Voodoo Lounge (Rio) at #2 with 19%, and the Paris Las Vegas Eiffel Tower #3 with 14%.

SINATRA JR. TICKET GIVEAWAY – We are proud to welcome “Sinatra Sings Sinatra” Aug. 15-21 at the MGM Grand. The concert, which originally debuted in May, features songs that Frank Sinatra sang in more than 40 years of performing in Las Vegas. The arrangements by such legendary musicians as Nelson Riddle, Billy May and Don Costa played by a 36-piece orchestra are the same incredible arrangements used by Sinatra throughout his career. We have two pairs of tickets to the Aug. 17’th 10:30 PM show up for grabs. You can enter and/or learn more about this event and purchase tickets at Sinatra Jr.

PARTY, PARTY, PARTY – Where do we start? E! Entertainment Television hosts the finals for Brooke Burke’s replacement July 12-13 at The Palms. This is open to the public! The finalists will have a shot at interviewing Skin Pool Lounge guests for possible future episodes during the party that takes place Friday, July 12 beginning at 8 PM ($10 cover). The weekend will end with a party at Rain in the Desert with Burke and the finalists. The party at Rain is scheduled for Saturday beginning at 11 PM ($20 cover, Nevada women free).

Venus Lounge in The Venetian has ladies night on Wednesday. Ladies drink free from 10 PM – Midnight, and they are giving away a prize of free airfare to Mexico. The Saloon Bar and Grill downtown (downtown at the entrance to Neonopolis) has happy hour 4-7 PM daily. $1.50 draft beer (including a nice import selection) and $2.50 house cocktails and frozen drinks. Howard Johnson’s Hotel Casino (on Tropicana, just over the freeway from The Strip) has Ladies Happy Hour Tuesday – Thursday with free drinks for the ladies 4-8 PM.

THE GREAT BALDINI — Starring singing impressionist T.J. Tyler in a fun off-the-wall show characterizing stars such as Tom Jones, Elvis Presley, Richard Simmons and James Brown. He is assisted by the beautiful Downtown Dancers and multi-instrumentalist Craig Keyes. Shows are Thursdays thru Sundays at 7:30 and 9 PM at Howard Johnson Hotel and Casino, 3111 W. Tropicana Av. at I-15 (798-1111). Tickets are two-for-one at $19.95 and include a free drink.

GOLDEN GATE STRIKE – has been settled. All Las Vegas union hotels have signed five year contracts.

BIG WINNER – Speaking of downtown, a Hawaii resident (who declined to release their identity) was staying at the California Hotel and headed over to Main St. Station to play the slots. With only $2 invested, they hit for $2,190,306.20 on Wheel of Fortune! I’m thinking they flew back home first class … you could be next. Main St. Station is a block off the Fremont St. Experience but one of the nicest properties downtown and well worth the visit.

99 CENT BREAKFAST – isn’t quite a thing of the past yet. Nevada Palace Casino (just south of Sam’s Town on Boulder Highway) is offering 2 eggs, hash browns, 2 bacon or sausage, toast or biscuit and coffee for only 99 cents Sunday night through Friday mornings, 11 PM to 6 AM. They also have $1 blackjack and Single 0 Dime Roulette (10 cent roulette) every day. We have info on all “Boulder Strip” hotels including Nevada Palace at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-hotel-reservations-valley.htm

BADGER FANS – We know planeloads of you are coming to town to watch Wisconsin take on UNLV August 31. If you have friends that are coming, make sure to pass our newsletter along and suggest AccessVegas.com to help them find all the great things to do in Las Vegas!

WIN $10,000 – Even if you aren’t a Badger fan, you can be entered to win $10,000 just by telling your friends about this newsletter. Click to http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 and enter now!

NUKE WASTE – is coming to Nevada. Yawn. For those concerned, it isn’t going to be trucked down The Strip or anywhere near it. Plans call for a rail line to the site that runs far outside the Vegas Valley. The repository 90 miles northwest of town. Truck shipments will be transferred to rail far away from this area.

SUBSCRIPTION “DUES” – This newsletter is absolutely free! We enjoy bringing you great Las Vegas information. If you enjoy our newsletter, we ask two small things: Consider booking your hotels, shows, and tours through AccessVegas.com or the links in this newsletter. We have great rates and fantastic selection in every category. Also, turn your friends on to Las Vegas by forwarding a copy to them and suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.




SHOW REVIEW:

Mystere by Cirque du Soleil – December, 1993. Treasure Island Las Vegas. A city still best known for cheap buffets and cheap rooms. No Mandalay Bay, no Bellagio, no Venetian, no Paris Las Vegas. Cirque du Soleil was popular in art and theatre circles but few in regular walks of life were familiar with the French Canadian company and their unique brand of human-based circus theatre. Boy, did that all change!

Almost a decade later, Mystere is still one of the hottest shows on the Las Vegas Strip and with great reason. This troupe of highly skilled athletic actors combine drama, rhythmic music, and fantastic feats that devy gravity.

The “Aerial Cube” features Paul Bowler suspended high above, spinning in a glistening steel cube at amazing heights. In the “Chinese Poles,” highly costumed performers use amazing muscular strength and control to mimic what may be insects on stalks of grass or wheat. They cling to, climb, and spring between the poles in superhuman fashion using only their own power and balance.

Marco and Paul Larador (brothers from Portugal) perform “Hand To Hand.” This strength and balancing act done on a rotating dome must be seen to be believed. But just when you feel you can’t be more amazed, “Bungee” takes center stage. Six performers suspended high above spring deep from trapezes in an amazing choreographed routine.

Other segments include the traditional circus act “Korean Plank” performed in a new and more complex way, the “Aerial High Bar” (a gymnastics inspired swinging high bar routine), and the “Trampoline and Fast Track” where a huge winged trampoline set let’s performers fly sideways between upright trampolines.

So save some cash and catch Ringling Bros. & Barnum and Bailey next time they hit your town, right? WRONG. The circus style acts are performed in a custom theatre with amazing costume, masks, color, and original live music that pulls at every sense and emotion. These acts just help paint part of a bigger canvas.

We are escorted through the show by a nontraditional clown. His disdain for the hoopla and childlike mischief (set off by the appearance of being an aged character) provide both comic relief and provoking thought. Babies (actors playing them) take us to the innocence and simplicity and hope for a bright tomorrow. Mysterious creatures remind us of childhood dreams, fantasies, and bedtime stories.

Mystere has earned worldwide respect and will leave you with lasting memories. This show was continually voted the best in Las Vegas until sister show “0” opened at Bellagio. Even then, it is well within the top five and a highlight of a Las Vegas trip.

Mystere by Cirque du Soleil plays Wednesday – Sunday at the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino. Tickets are $80.00 plus tax and may be purchased up to three months in advance by clicking here: MystÞre by Cirque du Soleil

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

Show Review Criteria: We understand that Las Vegas attracts visitors of varied budgets and interests. Shows are reviewed on the basis of value for dollar spent as well as to present the reader enough knowledge of the content to make an informed decision.

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at Shows
* HEADLINERS – listings available at Headliners
* CONCERTS – listings available at Concerts

For comments or questions regarding the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms
* Discount Rental Cars
* Tours – Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, More
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air)

* Toll Free Discount Room Hotline: TOLL FREE 1-888-254-0637, USA and Canada. 561-845-8899, International. Give Promo Code 4558 when calling.

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
July 10, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 15, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 50 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake or wish off our list, simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click) mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Condos and Vacation Rentals: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Reservation Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas hotel opinions! Our boards are brand new so let’s fill them up with the good, bad, and just general comments on your last visit. Plus, we now have a section for trip reports. New boards at http://boards.accessvegas.com

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THIS ISSUE: Letters and Complaints

EDITOR NOTES: I am calling this our “complaint” issue. Although rare, sometimes things don’t go perfectly in Las Vegas. Thus we are devoting this issue to “How To Complain and Be Heard.” We are also publishing a backlog of reader feedback.

You might note a common “rent a car” theme in this issue. Yes, we make $1-2 a day when you rent a car through us. Yes, we feel we have the best service because we let you compare all major companies for the best deal, and let you use your rental club card number (if applicable). However, we want your business long term, and giving you bad advice to make a few dollars isn’t worth it. In the situations I recommend it, I truly feel car rental it is your smartest move.


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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:FLAMINGO POOL PARTY – The Flamingo Hotel is hosting a free pool party with live music from 5-9 PM every evening. Specials include 2-1 drinks, as well as live barbecue cooking. As a bonus, you get to walk through a “best kept secret”: The Flamingo’s gardens which include live penguins and flamingos. Just head toward the back by the buffet and head out the doors that lead outside (between the casino and buffet).

NOT JUST GAMBLING – Studies by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) show that most potential visitors perceive Vegas as an entertainment destination rather than a gambling venue. That’s a very significant development, said Rob Powers of the LVCVA, a Las Vegan for 24 years. We’re more of a complete resort destination, and we’re able to go after every prospective leisure traveler. Story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm

CAB DRIVERS – If you think the cab drivers in this city don’t care about servicing the tourists, this will add more fuel to your fire. The Taxicab Authority recently changed the shifts serving McCarran airport to put more cabs at the airport later in the evening for tourists. The cab companies have balked in a big way, citing the inconvenience to their employees. (Guess they forgot who they are serving — the casinos don’t balk at having employees on around the clock to service their customers.) Full story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-3.htm Spend the cab fares on a rental car so you don’t have to be at the mercy of these guys.

NY VS. LV – Las Vegas Weekly writer Max Jacobson took a recent visit to New York, and dined at many of the New York City counterparts to some of the newer Las Vegas restaurants at http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/2001_2/08_9/food_taste.html

SUPERCONTEST – If you think you know football, The Hilton is again running their SuperContest. $1,500 secures your spot and allows you to pick five games against the spread each week during the regular NFL season. A $10,000 aggregate bonus will be awarded to anyone who selects over 67 percent winners and a $10,000 early sign up bonus contest will be offered to those who enter before 5:00 p.m. on August 26. Sign up begins August 3 and ends at 1:00 p.m. on September 7. First place will win up to $150,000 based on 250 entries.

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm ). Claiming your cash is simple:

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

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

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PERSONAL ENDORSEMENT – Instead of a paid ad here, I (Ted) want to tell you about our web host Virtual Spaces at http://www.virtual-spaces.com Every penny I make is online. If my tourism sites go down, I’m out of business and even a couple of hours can be costly. Virtual Spaces are reliable and quick. They don’t overload their servers to save a buck, and yet they are consistently among the least expensive hosts in the business.

Whether you are just starting a site, want to move your site away from unreliable and unprofessional looking free web hosting (with those long addresses and extra banners and links don’t look businesslike), or need a full dedicated server like we have, you will be pleasantly surprised by their rates and service. Click now and go compare http://www.virtual-spaces.com

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CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Rat Pack is Back (Sahara)
SHOWS, GOLF, DINING, WEATHER:

* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Search by date at http://www.accessvegas.com/show-tickets.htm
* GOLF RESERVATIONS – Grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Search by date, see prices at http://www.accessvegas.com/golf-reservations.htm
* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.accessvegas.com/dinner-reservations.htm
* LAS VEGAS WEATHER – http://www.wunderground.com/US/NV/Las_Vegas.html

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
* HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm
* CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Les Artistes Steakhouse (Paris) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-11-Wed-2001/living/16453766.html

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FEATURE STORY: Hotel Complaints

HOTEL COMPLAINTS – Unfortunately, unpleasant experiences sometimes happen on vacation. To compound matters, the person in charge often doesn’t care and you aren’t in a position to spend vacation time hunting down top management. Every month we get email from people frustrated by poor service and lack of attention to complaints by hotel or restaurant personnel.

Let me suggest the following course of action: Post a note about your unpleasant experience on our new Comment Las Vegas board at http://boards.accessvegas.com This way, you will help warn others. Then, print out your post and include it with a letter to the hotel manager, noting the problems. (Hotel addresses can be found at http://yp.yahoo.com ).

It helps to note the exact time, place, and employee name or description(s) if possible. By including a copy of a post to a well-read message board, they now know you are not only serious about your problem, but telling others as well.

One note of caution: Do make sure the complaint is reasonable. They can sniff out someone who came to town, drank too much, got a bad sunburn, lost all of their money, and is just looking for someone to yell at. Honest, specific complaints with surrounding facts get you a much better chance at not only an apology but possibly compensation ranging from a free dinner to free rooms next time you visit.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jack Singiser wrote:

>We spent three days at MGM grand this week, Mom, Dad, a girl
>11 and a boy 7. I heard MGM had an amusement park for children but at
>arrival found it was closed. The pool & river was fun. The front
>desk was polite but not friendly or helpful. With their amusement
>park being closed, they had no other ideas for us. With the heat
>being in the three digits they had no idea of what busses ran through
>the area. I had to pry details of the check in & out. There are no
>brochures of the strip area in the lobby but there is a magazine in
>the hotel room. Be sure to research out the area and transportation
>before going, using the internet. The MGM front desk does not offer
>up much information; like the amusement park will be closed during
>your 3 day stay. The people at NY NY were just across the street and
>much friendlier & open. We spent a lot of time there.

As someone who enjoys travel myself (besides selling it online), I always strongly suggest doing research before you travel somewhere. As reported here, The MGM closed the theme park well over a year ago. For those newer to the list, we have all our back issues (through May 2001) archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com

The entire goal of a hotel / casino is to keep you on their property. That is why every hotel has a steakhouse, Italian restaurant, Asian restaurant, shops, shows, and the rest. In fact, the MGM has a child care center ($6 an hour last I checked, child must be 3-12 in age and potty trained) where parents may leave their children for up to five hours, and you don’t have to be a hotel guest to use it. This is to get you to stay there and gamble.

I’m not defending the practice, but letting you know why they do what they do. Next time, you certainly have the option of doing your homework and staying at a more child friendly hotel like Circus Circus. With a family or any smaller group, you might think about renting a car. When you add up the bus or cab fare, and the convenience, it might turn out to be one of your better vacation investments.

Robert Brinin wrote:

>The Good: Aladdin Buffet – Lunch – $12.99 +tax Well worth the money.
>To us, Aladdin and Bellagio were the 2 best buffets that we’ve tried.
>
>Mystere – expensive but Spectacular!
>
>Tropicana Comedy Stop – We saw 3 terrific comedians on 7/19/01. Cheap
>- using a 2/1.
>
>Sahara Hotel afternoon comedy show. I think his name was Halley –
>comedy/magic — free — must buy 1 drink. $6.95 for a diet Coke kinda
>rich — but the show was terrific. We’re returning in December.
>
>The Bad: The New Frontier. David Darkstone Non-magic non-show.
>TERRIBLE – AMATEURISH – A DISGRACE. Don’t go even if free — with
>drinks and buffet thrown in! The juggler wasn’t good enough to work
>in a mall — maybe sweeping or mopping.
>
>New Frontier Buffet – What a dump!!! So bad it makes Lady Luck look
>good. The Orleans is 10X better!
>
>Traffic or no traffic – Las Vegas is still the best!

Thanks for the input. We gave Darkstone kind words, which are archived at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/david-darkstone-frontier-las-vegas-hotels.htm However, this is a perfect time to note how we review shows. None of this A – F grade or “2.5 stars.” Why? Everybody has different tastes and a different budget. We judge a show based on value: Is it worth the money? Then we also note who is more or less inclined to enjoy the show.

Do we think Darkstone is worth the $12.99 (one drink included with price)? Yes. Also good to bring kids to, especially since a family budget can usually handle that price. Does the intimate setting put you close to the action, letting you see it up close and not seeing any “funny business” that a big stage can hide? Absolutely. Is it one of the huge magic shows with large sets, tons of assistants, and larger than life illusions? Not at all.

Please keep in mind, most Las Vegas shows are priced in line with what you can expect (the basic price … not some VIP package that puts you so close you are craning your neck). If we tell you that an inexpensive show is a good value, good for people on a budget, or affordable for a family, you can’t expect the bang that a $75 show is going to give you. We enjoy catering to a wide variety of readers!

Mark E. Leslein of Warner Robins, GA wrote:

>Dear Editor, I was reading in your latest newsletter about an upcoming
>article on the Vegas Buffets. My family and I spent our vacation in
>Vegas last week and I want to thank you for the information in your
>last several newsletters. It played a key part in our vacation
>strategy planning we laid out before we arrived. This is the second
>year in a row we spent our vacation in Vegas. While we enjoy the
>activities and entertainment Vegas offers, the restaurant selection
>continues to be the downside of our stay.
>
>A serious insider’s guide
>to dining in Vegas would be a plus. On our first night we dined at
>the Rain Forest Cafe at the MGM. The food was fine and the service
>was acceptable, but the $100+ bill for food, drink (nonalcoholic) and
>tip was very disappointing for a family of four. We tried the
>luncheon buffet at Circus Circus on Thursday and while the price was
>right, the food was straight out of the can. I thought these Casino’s
>had chefs on staff. No self respecting chef would have even
>considered serving that garbage. The “oriental like” food was barely
>edible and the only decent item on the hot-food bar was the fried
>chicken, which traditionally is difficult to screw-up.
>
>On Tuesday
>morning we did the breakfast buffet at the MGM and found the price to
>be reasonable considering we had two for one coupons. The food was
>very good. The coffee and juice were fresh and the dessert bar was
>filled with a wide selection of delectable goodies that even a gourmet
>would appreciate. The service could use some improvements, but
>overall our experience at the MGM buffet was enjoyable. The highlight
>of our trip was the California Pizza Kitchen at the Mirage. The food
>was great. The service was excellent and the price was acceptable.
>
>I would also recommend that family’s looking for a dinner show
>appropriate for kids and adults, try the Tournament of Kings show at
>the Excalibur. The food was good, the service was efficient, the
>drinks were very reasonable, and the show was most enjoyable. It was
>one of the few times last week I felt like there was not a money
>vacuum sucking my billfold clean.

Zagat publishes a very serious guide to Las Vegas dining. It is under $10 and available at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1570062862/invegascom

Most restaurants have a menu posted out front. If they don’t, the hostess will always be happy to let you look at one. We strongly suggest doing so to avoid any surprises when the bill comes. Even if you sit down and find the prices beyond what you are prepared to pay for the surroundings, you can always excuse yourself. Anything from “I’m sorry but it turns out this isn’t want we had in mind” to “One of our group members doesn’t feel well and we need to cut our visit short” will do.

I’m not sure how you ended up at Circus Circus buffet, but every few months we note that it and Holiday Inn Boardwalk are the two worst in town. For lunch or dinner, we strongly suggest the buffets at Bellagio, Aladdin, Mirage, Harrah’s and the evening seafood buffet at Flamingo (every night for $14.95).

We have archived reviews on some of these at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/las-vegas-buffets.htm (I just realize we have not actually reviewed the Aladdin dinner buffet even though I probably talk it up once every two months. Do yourself a favor and enjoy it). On the flip side, the buffets I just listed run 2-3 times the price of Circus buffet. You tend to get what you pay for.

We agree with our assessment of Tournament of Kings. We reviewed it here about four months ago, and you can read our archived review at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/tournament-of-kings-las-vegas-shows.htm

Keith and Sandra Crider of Medford, OR wrote:

>We’d like to recommend the dinner buffet at the Hotel San Remo. Pat
>Hine, the food/beverage/catering manager, does a great job with this
>excellent mid-priced buffet. The foods are fresh, the wait staff
>quick and polite and they have great desserts, like chocolate eclairs
>with chocolate, not cream, filling. You really get your money’s
>worth.

I have not had the buffet there, but the $5.99 Prime Rib special served 24/7 in the coffee shop is a good value! For those unfamiliar with San Remo, it is just east of The Tropicana hotel on Tropicana Ave. and is a good place for those looking for a nice, but more intimate and friendly casino.

Linda & John Ward wrote:

>We are musicians and live in Northampton, England. Every time we read
>about Vegas we suffer withdrawal symptoms. How we love it! We were
>there during June this year having visited last November. Although we
>are not gamblers, we love the atmosphere and the entertainment – Earl
>Turner at the Rio is the “tops.” Also, there are so many wonderful
>places to visit outside Vegas – Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Red Rock
>Canyon, Lake Mohave, Cottonwood and a wonderful unspoiled little place
>called Nipton! This time we stayed at Harrah’s, Laughlin for part of
>our holiday where we met up with some lovely American friends from
>Flagstaff. The jet boat ride to Lake Havasu and London Bridge is easy
>to spot (I remember it in London and it looks a lot better now!)- we
>had a wonderful day.
>
>Thank you for your newsletter, we look forward to receiving the latest
>news from one of our favorite places in the world (and we have been to
>many)!

You certainly traveled around this entire region, and I’m very glad to hear you enjoy it. I was talking about this newsletter with a friend recently, noting what a wonder the internet is. I can publish this to readers in any country with internet access with a punch of a button. I know that many of you from other parts of the world have to spend some serious money to get here, saving up, getting significant time off work, flying 10, 15, 20 hours … and I’m happy that we help you make the most out of your Las Vegas trips!

Patti wrote:

>Hi Ted Love your newsletter. I am coming to Las Vegas in August and
>on some of the hotel web sites they now have links to a service called
>CAPS ( http://www.capstravel.com/caps.cfm ). I searched through your archives
>but could not find any information on it. I was wondering if you have
>had much feedback on the service since it sounds too good to be true
>(i.e., check in to your flight at the hotel and not have to sit around
>the airport for hours).

We’ve mentioned it — I’ll check why our newsletter archive search engine isn’t picking it up. For those who have not heard of CAPS, many hotels let you check in to your airline and check your bags directly at your hotel. All you do is head to the airport, take your boarding pass to the gate, and get on the plane! The charge is $6 a person, but not a bad price for peace of mind and buying yourself more time having fun in Las Vegas.

Has anyone used it? What did you think? Help everyone out by writing us at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com Also, we have a transportation section on our Comment Las Vegas boards. Please also post your experience with CAPS to the “Flying To Vegas” board at http://boards.accessvegas.com/flying_toc.htm

Ruby Stout wrote:

>I visited Vegas on July 6-10 with my daughter.. Was pleased to find
>the Elvis Museum. I don’t know if many people are aware of it but it
>has a very nice collection. We were treated to a private concert by a
>very good Elvis impersonator (there weren’t any other people in museum
>at the time). I think his name was Justin and he also appears at The
>New Frontier. Although we were the only ones in the audience, he
>performed as if the room was full. As one who saw Elvis as a Teen
>when he had just started, I can say Justin is a ringer, I asked him if
>he was Elvis’ illegitimate son but since he is only 17 that is not
>possible unless the rumors that Elvis is alive are true.

If you like Elvis, the Elvis Museum is a “must see.” We reviewed it here a little more than a year ago, and you can read that review archived (with photos) at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com/ekvis-a-rama-museum-las-vegas.htm

Tom Bain wrote:

>Found your service really useful in planning our visit to Las Vegas
>and identifying the resorts, activities and restaurants to take in
>during our stay with our eleven year old daughter.
>
>As a first visitor, it would have been useful to have had a directory
>purely for traveling around the Strip showing the tram/trolley/bus
>routes and stops, and the resorts that interconnect by monorail, as
>walking the street in temperatures of over 100F is tiring, and in some
>of the resorts, car park areas for free parking require a long hike
>from the back to the front of the resort. Your latest review with
>information about car parking at the Casino Royale has come too late
>for us to benefit, but we will pass it to a nephew who is visiting in
>September.

Long time readers might remember that I was going to put together a list of good parking spots and the like a LONG time ago. It got shoved to the bottom of the “to do” pile, but I will make it a point to get on it. As most of our readers (based on feedback) rent a car to maximize the ability to get around and see everything, I’m sure it will be of value. For you who have yet to visit town, the Las Vegas Strip is 4 miles long, and the Fremont Street Experience (downtown) is another two miles past the North end of The Strip. Thus, the interest in transportation.

I will also include the monorails / trams. For those curious, free monorails / trams run between:

1. Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay
2. Monte Carlo and Bellagio
2. Bally’s and MGM
4. Mirage and Treasure Island

As far as the city bus and “Strip Trolley” (a private run bus that looks like a trolley car), I get more complaints about those than almost anything else. People come to town, wanting to save a couple bucks, and they ride the bus ($2 per person) or the Trolley (about the same fare … have not checked lately) up and down The Strip.

Often, especially at peak times, these are crowded beyond belief. The city buses that run The Strip get so full they will blow by stops with people waiting because they have no room on board. As it is, they not only wind their way through Strip traffic, but make stops every couple blocks which can make a 10 minute car ride take 30 minutes.

Unless you really booze it up, or have a fear of driving on roads you aren’t used to, rent a car. We hope you compare our rates, but regardless of where you rent, consider this: Your vacation time is valuable when you look at the cost of airfare, food, and hotel. The time you save between destinations and the convenience of not standing in the weather only to have bus after bus pass you up makes the car well worth it.

Walter Nehls wrote:

>Every year my wife and I purchase airline tickets and a room at
>Bally’s 8 months in advance. We take cash with us for the gambling
>and one credit card for our meals and extras. This is the second year
>we have had problems with Bally’s putting a large hold on our credit
>card when no money is due them. The rooms were paid in advance.

Walter went on to note the rest of the major inconveniences related to having a hold put on his credit card. It is getting more common for hotels to ask you if you want a hold put on your card for incidentals. If you have plenty of room left on your credit limit, no big deal. But if not, it can really cause problems because the hold eats up your available credit.

However, policies are NOT standard between hotels so this is a great thing to be aware of. Some will put no hold on, but you can’t even make local calls until you OK the hold. Others will put it on without asking you. Word to the wise: When you check in, ask “Is there a hold being put on my credit card for incidentals, and if so, how much”?

If your credit limit is an issue, and you plan to use your credit card to charge expenses during your vacation, make sure they don’t put a hold on it. You might forfeit your right to make phone calls from your room, but it beats the alternative.

Speaking of phone calls, with most hotels charging $1 or more for local calls, and dollars per minute for long distance, bring your cell phone if it has roaming or buy a calling card and make your calls from a pay phone. Our advertiser Cognigen has a great 8.9 cents a minute, no surcharge card available at http://www.accessvegas.com/cogni-talk.htm

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Your input is welcome. Because of limited space here, we encourage you to post comments about specific Las Vegas hotels, shows, attractions, and general trip reports to our Comment Las Vegas message board at http://boards.accessvegas.com

For comments or questions regarding topics in the newsletter, write us a “letter to the editor” at (click) mailto:allvegastv@aol.com While space doesn’t permit publishing every letter, we do certainly read them all and they help shape our content. Please include your name if you wish to have it published (stating your city is optional).

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LOCAL NOTES:

FREE UNLV TICKETS – Fans 12 years old and younger can receive a free ticket to UNLV football’s home opener vs. Big 10 Conference favorite Northwestern, the school announced Monday. As part of the NCAA’s national Take a Kid to the Game Program, children 12 and under will receive a complimentary ticket for every adult ticket purchased for the Sept. 7 game between the Rebels and Wildcats. The tickets must be acquired in person and the specially marked free kids tickets are available only at the time the adult ticket is purchased and are subject to availability. Info at http://sports.excite.com/ncaaf/news/010813/fo-smyk-kids-can-get

RADIO UPDATE — As speculated here last week, KBYE 105.7 FM has indeed launched as a smooth jazz station. 100.1 FM is now “K-Hits” (general Top 40 from the past couple decades). 89.1 FM is Christian Hit Radio “Air 1.” An updated list of Las Vegas radio and TV stations is available at http://www.accessvegas.com/tvradio.htm


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


ONLINE POLL – “How long do you usually stay in Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!FREE CONTEST:

GUIDE TO LAS VEGAS 2001 – We have one copy of this comprehensive guide perfect for those looking to move to Las Vegas, or are already on their way to making the move. Enter by sending a blank email to (click) mailto:guide2001@accessvegas.com One entry per person, you must be a newsletter subscriber to win. Deadline for entries: Sunday, August 19, 2001. Winner will be chosen in a random drawing from all eligible entries received before deadline and be notified by email.

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LAS VEGAS TRAVEL PACKAGES: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm

LAS VEGAS TRAVEL SPECIALS:

Book these specials at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

Las Vegas – The Excalibur, Aug 19 through Oct 4 from $69!
Las Vegas – Treasure Island, Aug 19 through Sept 6 from $105
Las Vegas – Nefertiti’s Dream Package is now at the Luxor!
Las Vegas – The Sahara Hotel, Aug 19 through Sept 13 from $42
Las Vegas – Stay at the MGM Aug 19 through Sept 6 from $79!
Las Vegas – The Flamingo Hilton Aug 19 through Sept 6 from $75
Las Vegas – Rendezvous in the Monte Carlo Aug 12 – Sept 6!
Las Vegas – Bellagio Hotel and Casino Sept 9 – 27 from $195
Las Vegas – Spring into Summer with San Remo Magic today!
Las Vegas – Suncoast, Aug 12 through September 6 $49!

Book any above specials at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

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Have a request for a review? Confused when you come to town and see the hundreds of dining, attraction, and show opportunities? Let us know what you’d like to hear about! Unlike the tourist magazines where all of the “articles” are really paid ads, we give you the honest scoop.

If you appreciate this service, please consider booking your rooms and rental cars for ALL destinations with us using the travel links listed at the top of each issue. You get secure ordering with the convenience and savings of booking online!

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
August 15, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 16, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 50 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake or wish off our list, simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to (click): mailto:newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

QUICK TRAVEL LINKS: Book Online and Save – Easy and Secure with Instant Confirmation:

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Condos and Vacation Rentals: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcondo?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Hotel Reservation Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

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

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

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THIS ISSUE: Wolfgang Puck’s Cili

EDITOR’S NOTES: I’m back after a much-needed vacation. The amount of news and info I sift through each week is mind-boggling but I love Las Vegas! I added a short section about my trip for those who might be interested in a nice place to take a beach getaway.

Also, we’ve added four new cities to the 120+ destinations we offer with guaranteed low rates: Edinburgh (Scotland), Nice (France), Madrid (Spain), and Munich (Germany) at http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas and our city on sale this week (listed above) just happens to be Las Vegas.




LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

HOT WEATHER – We just had a string of 100 or near 100 degree days, somewhat unusual for this early in the year but no indication of an unusually hot summer. However, bringing heavy clothes or a jacket to town between now and the end of September is pretty much unnecessary. Weather story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-10-Thu-2001/news/16065186.html

POOL PARTY – New York, New York as cranked up their Sizzling Summer Saturday Pool Party which is running now through Labor Day Weekend. It runs Saturday nights from 5 – 9 PM and features a DJ, dancing, contests, food specials, beer and cocktail availability, prizes and giveaways. Admission is $5 but includes a $3 off coupon for the Manhattan Express Roller Coaster. Hotel guests showing room key enter free and you can check New York, New York room prices and availability at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (New York, New York link).

MORE ROOMS – Caesars Palace announced Friday plans to build a 900 unit all-suites tower that will be ready for guests in 2004. This is on the heels of the all-suite Venetian finalizing their plans to go ahead with doubling their room inventory with a new tower. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-12-Sat-2001/business/16081286.html

COINLESS SLOTS – are coming, and there really isn’t a way to stop them. Fortunately, the technology is already out there that let’s you cash out on a machine, and take your receipt and stick it in another machine for play, eliminating waits for change and dirty hands. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-03-Thu-2001/business/16011220.html

CBS TELEVISION CITY – is open at the MGM. You can watch a preview of a possible TV show and be part of audience research. Screenings, which begin daily at 9 a.m. and are conducted every 20 minutes, are free. A booth outside the center takes sign-ups from participants. Coupons for $10 off on items in the retail shop are given out for watching the screenings. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/15915313.html

ALADDIN BUFFET – A reader recently wrote telling me that the Aladdin buffet had gone downhill to the point that the food was comparable to Denny’s. Because I often note that the Aladdin is one of the top three buffets on the Strip (along with Bellagio and Paris Las Vegas) I stopped in a few days ago to check. I’m pleased to report that is still well worth the $20 price and that the quantity and quality of the food from seafood to deserts continues to be topnotch.

BALLET – is coming to The Rio. In a rare alliance between casino and cultural entities, the Rio will host several Nevada Ballet Theatre performances at its $35 million, 1,500-seat Samba Theatre, including the holiday perennial “The Nutcracker.” Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-08-Tue-2001/living/16043051.html

WETLANDS PARK – Phase one of the park is completed. The 130-acre nature preserve includes paved trails, ponds and wetland areas for wildlife. This first phase also features retaining rock walls to control flood erosion of the Las Vegas Wash. It is a real oasis in the middle of the desert, and they are recreating a wetlands that once filled the area. The park is in the Southwest part of the valley near Sam Boyd Stadium. To get there, drive east on Tropicana Avenue one mile past Boulder Highway, then turn left on the marked, unpaved road. Story at http://www.viewnews.com/2001/VIEW-May-09-Wed-2001/East/15998296.html

BEST ANIMAL EXHIBIT – Question: I know there are lots of animal exhibits in Las Vegas, but which ones are the best? Answer in a story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm

EX-FL – Although very popular in cities like Las Vegas, Orlando, and San Francisco, UPN backed out from broadcasting XFL games next year. This left the XFL without a network television outlet and thus the demise of the startup football league. The XFL was a weekly work-in-progress during the early part of the year, and by the time the talent started to gel and football announcing crews (as opposed to WWF-related broadcasters) were in the booth, people had tuned out and refused to tune back in. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/news/16075189.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/sports/16075134.html

ART IN VEGAS – Can Picasso and Renoir compete with topless revues and video poker? Will a museum exhibit draw the same crowds that scramble to see fighting pirates, dancing water fountains and exploding volcanoes? Las Vegas resorts are betting on it. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/ap/010509/12/wkd-vegas-art

$25 HOTEL REBATE — you pick the hotel! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you $25 back on any 2+ night stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm ). Claiming your cash is simple:

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

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


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


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

CELINE DION – A long-standing rumor (which we first mentioned last November) has come to pass. Celine Dion has indeed finished negotiation with Caesars Palace for a two year run in the new 4,000-seat Coliseum-themed theater built for her. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/news/16055569.html

JUNEFEST 9 – features Bad Company, Billy Squier, Journey, Molly Hatchet, Night Ranger, Styx, and Joe Stark. More info at http://www.junefest.com

MADONNA – is coming to town and tickets go on sale May 19 at http://events.excite.com/event_info?id=845400. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-03-Thu-2001/news/16012338.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Scintas (Rio) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-04-Fri-2001/weekly/15998841.html
* Storm (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-27-Fri-2001/weekly/15921496.html and http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_05_10/stage.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

* SHOW TICKETS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1
* GOLF RESERVATIONS – BookVegas let’s you grab that tee time GUARANTEED before you get to town! Click to http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5
* DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

EVENT LISTINGS:

* SHOWS AND HEADLINERS – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
* CONCERT – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* 808 (Caesars) – http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm


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


EDITOR’S NOTE: This is not a regular feature, I have no plans to make this a general travel newsletter. I’m sharing a pleasant travel experience and in keeping with my editorial policy, none of this is a paid endorsement. If you are only interested in Vegas info, skip ahead.

MY VACATION – People often ask me where someone from Las Vegas goes to vacation. I go to see two things we don’t have here: a beach and green scenery. Last week, a number of friends of mine from all over the U.S. decided to spend an extended weekend on Florida’s Emerald Coast. It is an area that some Floridians teasingly call “L.A.” (lower Alabama) as this area is located on the Florida Panhandle directly below Alabama. However, this part of Florida is truly a best-kept vacation secret.

The beaches of the Emerald Coast consistently rank among the best in the U.S. by the Travel Channel because of their sugar white sand and the warm, turquoise Gulf of Mexico water. You actually get the best of the deep south with the wonderful southern hospitality and the best of Florida with the fantastic beach. Testament to this is that a number of people in our group were from Florida (South Beach, Ft. Myers, etc.) and pleasantly commented that they didn’t even know this area existed but would be back.

We stayed at the stunning Ramada Plaza Beach Resort right on the Gulf of Mexico between Ft. Walton Beach and Destin, FL on Okaloosa Island. None of our travel partners book this resort, but you can go directly to their site at http://www.ramadafwb.com and check it out for yourself.

Besides the ability to stumble out of one’s room and directly on to the beach (what a wake-up!) the hotel features beautiful grounds and Northwest Florida’s largest swimming pool accented with a five story Polynesian island where one may swim through the waterfall to the Grotto Bar. The best thing was price as resorts with similar surroundings and amenities in a more well known destinations can cost considerably more.

Destin, FL has been a second home to the well-off for quite some time. It wasn’t uncommon to see private jets flying out of the municipal airport and luxury cars on the road of this upscale beach town and you golfers may recognize the name of the neighboring Sandestin golf resort village ( http://www.sandestin.com ). As in Vegas, that meant that there was a great selection of fine dining ( http://coastalcuisinemenuguide.com/restaurants2.htm ) and shopping opportunities.

However, if listening to Jimmy Buffet style music play while you sip a drink at an open-air beach bar or dancing at a club is more your style, you won’t be disappointed. Places like The Back Porch ( http://www.backporchseafood.com ) and Pompano Joe’s ( http://www.pompanojoes.com ) are a couple of great beachfront restaurants that let you enjoy the cool breezes and beautiful Gulf whether you dine indoors or out.

For partying, AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar features dining in the day and evening and it turns into a party bar at night ( http://www.ajs-destin.com ). The Swamp Club on Okaloosa Island ( http://www.swampclub.com ) is a huge, rustic, two story totally club that features live bands and / or a DJ from 8 PM to 4 AM every day. If your raging party days are a little behind you, Howl at the Moon ( http://www.howlatthemoon.com/destinhowl.htm ) is on the same boardwalk and has a “dueling piano show” nightly. Me? I took it ALL in and never ran out of things to do the entire week.

Getting there is simple. Driving: It is within a days drive of all of most of the southern US. Flying: Okaloosa Regional Airport (airport code VPS — http://www.co.okaloosa.fl.us/airport.html ) is a scenic 20 minutes from Fort Walton Beach and 30 minutes from Destin. Air service is provided by Delta, Northwest, AirTran and US Air and major car rental services are available.

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

Thursday – 96 ░F / 71 ░F Sunny
Friday – 95 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Saturday – 96 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Sunday – 97 ░F / 69 ░F Sunny
Monday – 99 ░F / 70 ░F Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Wolfgang Puck’s Cili

Just a half mile south of Mandalay Bay sits what is now the only golf course on The Strip: Bali Hai. Course developer Billy Walters never does anything second rate. The course itself is a 7,015-yard, par 72 tropical golf paradise inspired by the landscape of the South Pacific with seven acres of water including an island green, 2,500 palm trees and over 100,000 tropical plants and flowers.

However, that wasn’t enough. So onboard came Wolfgang Puck to build the clubhouse restaurant. This isn’t your average “19’th hole” burger and beer stop, but a gourmet restaurant that happens to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus Sunday Brunch. The dining area is Polynesian themed with water, exotic relics, high arched ceilings, palms, and waterfalls. The dining area has a beautiful view of part of the course, overlooking foliage and water (patio seating is available).

Lunch features appetizers in the $10-16 range including standards such as poached shrimp “martini” cocktail to more unusual fare such as Balinese style satays with pork, chicken and shrimp. Lunch entrees and sandwiches run $12-18 and include sandwiches (with only twists a Puck establishment could think of) to rib-eye steak.

A bar menu is available from 3 PM to close and includes selections like Atlantic oysters on the half shell with mignonette, Herbed goat cheese with roasted peppers and olives, and Prime steak tartare with chopped egg, mustard aioli and sourdough croutons. The bar menu averages $12-15.

Dinner gives you a choice of American or Asian cuisine, although fans of Pucks restaurants know he takes liberties in mixing a wide variety of flavors. Highlights are the Grilled porterhouse steak with creamed spinach & potato gratin and Grilled salmon with stir fried rice, prawns & spicy bok choy. Of course, a wide variety of meat and seafood dishes prepared in various tempting configurations are available. Dinner entrees range from $21-38.00.

Cili is open seven days a week from 7 AM to 9 PM. It is open to the public and located in the Bali Hai Golf Club at 5160 Las Vegas Blvd. South (The Strip) 1/2 mile south of Mandalay Bay. Reservations are suggested but not required at 702-856-1000




EDITOR’S NOTE: I was swamped with letters (both pro and con) about kids in Las Vegas and will be printing those next week. We’ll let the “best view” poll go one more week, then introduce a poll asking how you all feel about kids in Las Vegas. This week, we’ll answer a pervious question: If someone only has one day in town, what would you show them?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

John Krogh wrote:
> A night helicopter ride over the strip…

Jessica Lehnert wrote:

> Take her to Caesars palace. The shopping alone is beyond belief but
> the casino, pool & shows are fabulous. You can sit in one place in
> Las Vegas & get a show! Lehnert

Jean H. or Waukesha, WI wrote:

> If you can drag yourself away from the tables and slot machines–I’d
> walk to visit and see every major casino on the strip. They all have
> such different themes and each one seems to be more spectacular than
> the next! I’d also watch the Pirate show at Treasure
> Island but I’d get there early and have a drink at the Battle Bar and
> enjoy the show from there. Also, I’d go downtown and eat at Hugo’s
> Cellar–one of my favorite restaurants in the US.

Madeleine from Canada wrote:

> Having been to Las Vegas regularly, since the late seventies, I think
> a newcomer to “Sin City” would enjoy the view from the top of the
> Stratosphere, at night. It’s magnificent!

Diane Podemski wrote:

> To answer Allen Waterman’s question of what one thing would you show a
> newcomer….it’s impossible to list only one!! I’ve been going to
> Vegas at least twice a year since I turned 21 (I’m 45 now) and there’s
> always something new and exciting to see. The cactus garden at the
> Ethel M chocolate factory is beautiful, the atrium at Bellagio is
> awesome, the Pirate Show at Treasure Island impressive and Danny Gans
> show at Mirage is great! Allen, you need to take more than one trip,
> make a list of “must sees” each time you go, it’ll take quite a few
> years before you can cross off everything!

Mick & Lyn of Essex, London wrote:

> I have only been to Vegas once and that was in Nov 2000 but I am
> looking forward to going back next year, we had a great time and
> everything was good but the thing that I really liked was walking
> along the strip at night and watching the fountains at Bellagio they
> were just great.

Allen Goenawein wrote:

> What you want to show someone depends on their
> interest. And there is plenty to show in and around
> Vegas. If you are the outdoors type, Red Rock Canyon
> is a nice half day trip. You will get to see wild
> burros, Indian pictographs, maybe some wild horses,
> plus a lot of great scenery. Or maybe Hoover dam would
> be more your style. Or take a flight over the Grand
> Canyon. In town are a host of new casinos to visit,
> one more beautiful than the next. Some of the finest
> shopping can be had at the Fashion Show Mall shopping
> center. All of the big names are located there. My
> favorite place to visit in the Fashion Show Mall is
> Centaur Galleries on the lower floor of the mall.
> There you can see art work from some of the greatest
> masters of the world. You can just look or if you are
> so inclined, you can purchase a fine art treasure to
> enjoy the rest of your life. Mr. Richard Perry is the
> owner and has resources all over the world that
> enables him to present some of the best art work from
> around the world. If you want to gamble, any of those
> above mentioned beautiful casinos will be glad to take
> your money, after all, that’s what they are in
> business for. But, maybe, the best thing to do is to
> hang out by a pool for three days, relax and let the
> world go by.

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

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




ONLINE POLL – What is your favorite view of Las Vegas? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

FREE CONTEST – Fly free to Vegas!

Every week now through June 10th, fodors.com is giving
away two round-trip tickets to anywhere US Airways flies
in the United States, Canada or the Caribbean. In the final
week (June 4th¡10th), you can go anywhere US Airways
flies including Europe.

You can enter the sweepstakes every week at:
http://www.accessvegas.com/foders.htm

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

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

Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates, or better yet click here: http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend it to friends with a chance to win $10,000!

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
May 16, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 4, 2000

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

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Le Village Buffet

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


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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FEATURE STORY: Le Village Buffet

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

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

DINNER MENU:

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

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

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

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

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

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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

FREE CONTESTS:

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 6, 2000

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

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

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


 


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

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

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

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

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FEATURE STORY: Race Rock Supercharged Restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jim Scheetz of Bethlehem, PA wrote:

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

Here are the details from 2 newsletters ago:

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

Jean Haka of Waukesha WI wrote:

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

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

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

Andrew Tarascio wrote:

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

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

Zira Schiffer of NJ wrote:

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

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

Lynette from WI wrote:

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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

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

FREE CONTESTS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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