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 – September 10, 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.

This Issue: Carrot Top, Greens of Las Vegas

Also In This Issue – Sept. 10, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, Cheap Rooms, News Of Interest To Tourists, More

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

Hello from Las Vegas! It’s been a busy week, out doing and seeing so much. The weather has kicked down a notch. The days are pleasant and the evenings incredible. I’ve got the office window open as I write.

Mystere Show and Dinner Deal – If you pass this one up, you are crazy! We have available a special discount price on a VIP level package: Dinner at Smith & Wollensky with Cirque du Soleil’s Mystere after. Click For Details

Smith & Wollensky is on of the area’s top dining attractions, across from the Monte Carlo. Mystere is the legendary Cirque show that continues to be a top Las Vegas draw. Added Bonus: Watch Smith & Wollensky chef John Piccolino prepare their famous Angry Lobster dish: Dial-Up or Broadband

NASCAR Las Vegas – tickets are on sale! We suggest you go the Race and Hotel Package route so you don’t get the tickets then get stiffed, paying outrageous rates for a room. Race weekend is March 5-7. You want really great seats? Check out premium seating for the race.

What Happens Here, Stays Here – Local civic leaders are complaining that the Las Vegas tourism ad campaign is scaring off new companies who don’t want a Las Vegas address because of the negative association. Hello … this is Sin City!

Ray Brown Jr. & Uptown Attitude – The son of the legendary Ella Fitzgerald is performing in Las Vegas for the first time! Enjoy his mix of Adult Contemporary Pop, Rhythm & Blues, and Jazz September 2 û November 30, 2003, Tuesdays through Saturdays at 10 p.m. in The Riviera’s Le Bistro Theater. $34.95 + tax.

New Year’s Eve – Don’t forget to check out the great America West deal below, and for the inside scoop and all the advice for enjoying New Year’s Eve with us in Las Vegas, check out our Las Vegas New Year’s Eve site!


Ring in the New Year in Vegas

America West Las Vegas New Years Eve Special Offers – There’s no more exciting place to spend the New Year than Vegas, baby! We’ve made it easy for you to get the vacation you want to ring in 2004. Click to price your best New Year’s Eve yet!


Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Click To Read Latest News:

Learn What People Are Saying On Our Travel Boards:

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


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!

Featured Story: Carrot Top, Greens of Las Vegas

Carrot Top – I finally checked out Carrot Top on the invite of his local PR staff. He’s been headlining here for years, and all I knew about him was his Jay Leno appearances and the phone commercials that seem to play non-stop. Was I ever happy to finally check him out live!

A prop comedian, Carrot Top’s stage is filled with trunks and trunks of gags. Sounds like it would get boring after five minutes? Not even. This skilled performer rarely let up, with gag after gag after gag that had the audience laughing non-stop for the entire performance. Nothing was off-limits, from politics to NASCAR to poking fun of the very hotel he was performing at.

The show is PG-13 because of a little bit of language, but nothing that will make anyone blush. And he pulls off his entire show without getting into raunchy humor, making this the perfect fun show to take your teenagers or even Grandma to. Carrot Top plays now through September 17 at the MGM Grand. Catch him this time, but if you can’t we’ll remind you before his next headlining run.

Click for Carrot Top Tickets Or Call Toll-Free (866) 828-9849 x143

Want to see who is playing during your next visit? Check out our Concert and Headliner Calendar

Greens Of Las Vegas – Want some golf, but don’t want to take up hours of your vacation time or travel miles from The Strip? We had a great time at the Greens of Las Vegas, close to The Strip and just south of the Hard Rock Hotel.

Imagine a top-notch golf course minus the fairways. Hole after hole of challenging but fun putting greens outdoors in a beautiful setting. This isn’t mini-golf, but carries a couple great advantages: You can enjoy the course in about an hour, and the non-golfers in your group can still play and enjoy this experience because no fairway driving is involved.

The greens has a full pro shop, and a comfortable, upscale “19’th hole” restaurant and bar called Bogee’s. A full golf experience that doesn’t eat up your entire vacation!

Check out the Greens of Las Vegas website for more information, and a couple of great money saving coupons. With the perfect, warm fall Las Vegas weather at hand, we had a great time and you will too on your next trip!


Mamma Mia!
The worldwide smash hit is now playing Mandalay Bay Resort.
A must see this Vegas visit. Reserve Now!


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.
September 10, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 7, 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.

If you receive this by mistake, please note the simple unsubscribe instructions at the bottom. Feel free to forward this newsletter to others. To subscribe, visit our Newsletter Site.

This Issue: Ted Sherman’s Las Vegas Thoughts

Also In This Issue – May 7, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, News Of Interest To Tourists
Shows | Headliners | Tours | Dining | Golf | Rental Cars | Airfare | Packages

Print Out This Number! – Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 x143 to book all hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining reservations. Bring number to Las Vegas for last minute reservations too! (New reservations only. Existing reservations use contact information given when reserving. Online room deals must be booked online).

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

Hello from Las Vegas! We realize that many of you didn’t get our last issue. If you have not heard from us in a while, click to check out our previous issue.

$100 for $30 Slot Play – Our ticket service said “Ted, AccessVegas.Com sells a lot of show tickets … what would it take to sell more”? I said “My readers are smart. You better toss in a hell of a value for them”! I wouldn’t let them skimp, and made sure they offered this with some of the most popular shows in town.

So for a limited time, when you book any of the following shows online through us, you will receive $100 in slot play at Casino Royale in the heart of The Strip (right across from The Mirage) for only $30 more (click a show): Blue Man Group, O – A Cirque Du Soleil Production, BRAVO Starring Charo, Folies Bergere, Jubilee, Splash, and V – The Ultimate Variety Show.

Book now as I can’t guarantee how long we can offer this, but everyone booking now gets to take advantage of it (even if your trip isn’t for a while). Don’t delay!

Work With Us And Have Fun – It is no secret that we are going through a serious expansion of our Las Vegas coverage, and we are looking for people who want to be part of our freelance team! Spokesmodels, Models, Video Hosts/Reporters, Writers, Photographers, Videographers, Basic HTML/Graphics — we offer major exposure plus great perks. Click for more info.

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Aladdin – is in bankruptcy, but no need to worry about booking there. With a positive cash flow and very interested buyers (Planet Hollywood with Starwood Casinos have signed an offer to buy it), the Aladdin will be around for a long time.

Dolphin Birth At Mirage Dolphin Habitat – Duchess, one of 10 Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at Siegfried & RoyÆs Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage, gave birth to a male calf. The calf weighs approximately 30 pounds and is about three feet long. This is the fourth birth at The Mirage for Duchess, a Dolphin Habitat resident since it opened in October 1990. Read more (with photo) …

David Copperfield – is a must see show in your lifetime. Period. You can read our review and his Las Vegas schedule has been released for the rest of the year. 5/8-5/21 (right now), 6/12-6/25, 8/21-9/3 and 9/25-10/8. Click to buy tickets. You won’t be disappointed!

Treasure Island – is going to be officially renamed T.I. Yawn. On a more interesting note, they are hiring female dancers to spice up the free pirate battle out front. Another sharp nail in the death of “family friendly” Las Vegas.

Playboy Photo Search – for the 50’th Anniversary Playmate took place at Jillian’s Las Vegas two weeks ago, and we were there! Click for Playmate search info or to our Playmate search photo gallery.

Matt Lewis as Elvis In Legends – Are you lonesome tonight? Then get to the Imperial Palace and see Matt Lewis bring the charm and humility of a young “Elvis” to every Legends in Concert performance, while still exuding the electric excitement one would expect from the real Legend. Read More (with photo) …

Last Call With Carson Daly – filmed recently here at the Hard Rock. The episodes air May 9-22 in his regular late night time slot.

Epicurean Affair – Top chefs from Las VegasÆ finest restaurants will come together on Tuesday, June 17, at Caesars Palace to showcase their signature culinary cuisine and internationally-acclaimed wines at the 13th annual Epicurean Affair. The event is open to the public and will be held at 7:30 p.m. poolside at Caesars Palace pool area. Read More …

Zumanity – The new adult (18 and over) Cirque Du Soleil show opens at the MGM at the end of July. It is billed as “a stunning exploration of the hidden forces behind desire, and a celebration of human diversity. In an intimate theatre, beautiful performers beguile the audience with a never-before-seen blend of fashion, art, music, dance, circus arts, personality and sensuality.” We’ll keep you posted as things shape up.

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! á

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!

Note from Editor Ted Newkirk: Ted Sherman (great first name!) is the man behind our new Senior’s Las Vegas email newsletter which launches next week. As a regular Las Vegas visitor, he’ll both give his thoughts and hints on enjoying the present day Las Vegas as well as remembrances from the past.
You don’t have to be a senior to sign up for or enjoy this newsletter, and the price is right: Free! Simply sign up at AccessVegas.Com (left hand middle of page) or email Ted directly. His contact info is below his piece.

Featured Story: Ted Sherman’s Las Vegas Thoughts

Cabbie Savvy – Many senior visitors gripe about Vegas taxis. Some cabbies use the long way from the airport to Strip hotels. They take the airport tunnel to I-15, and 20 long minutes later arrive at the hotel. The cabbies may tell you it avoids heavy street traffic, but instead of a $10 fare through non-highway streets, the cost can be $20+.So, when you hop a taxi at the airport, just say, “Hey, don’t use the tunnel”. Also be aware that the extra fee added to your bill is for leaving the airport into Vegas. Don’t be charged an extra fee for returning to the airport for departure.

Vegas cabbies don’t look forward to later this year. New links in the city’s monorail system will connect MGM to many hotels four miles along the Strip to the Sahara. As if taxi guys don’t have enough to worry about, there’s talk of extending the monorail to the airport.

Remember When – Dick Smothers recalls his first Las Vegas job with brother Tom…would you believe…40 years ago! Then in their early 20s, and having only performed for high school and college audiences, the Smothers Brothers weren’t sure their material was sophisticated enough for Las Vegas.They were the opening act for star Juliet Prowse at the Flamingo, and were an instant hit. To this day, after decades of award-winning TV and live performance success, they’ve never had to change their off-the-wall concepts of comedy and music.

Dick says knew he had become a star when Frank Sinatra introduced him to the audience during Frank’s performance at Caesar’s Palace. The Smothers Brothers, popular as ever, star at the Las Vegas Hilton May 6 through June 1, August 26 through September 14, and October 28 through November 16. Click for tickets or call toll free 800-696-5721.

Ted Sherman is a self-described active retiree who lives with his wife Marilyn in Tucson, Arizona. He visits Las Vegas about once a month (65 minutes by air on Southwest). He is an accomplished artist, responsible for the accompanying graphics. For comments or to sign up for his new Seniors Monthly Las Vegas newsletter, contact him at SeniorVegas@aol.com


NBA and NHL Playoff Tickets – The best seats (even for sold out games) are available to you! Can’t make it to Las Vegas and deserve to have some fun? Treat yourself to seats so close you can hear every nuance. Or just buy decent seats to a sold out game. Get a friend and enjoy the game! Click for Playoff Premium and Sold Out seating.


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

Advertising with us is easy! See our media kit or contact us at allvegastv@aol.com

All contents copyright 2003 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
May 7, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 16, 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. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to allvegastv@aol.com

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

Hello from Las Vegas! It has been a busy week, seeing David Copperfield, Frank Sinatra, Jr., a Sunday trip out to Hoover Dam and Monday Night Football at the Hard Rock. Sinatra was fantastic, our Copperfield and Hard Rock football reviews are in this issue.

The weather has been stunning with highs in the mid-80’s and cool evenings that don’t get cold. I put the Rams/Raiders game on the car radio (my Raiders finally suffered a loss), put on the sun glasses, put down the car windows, and headed out to Hoover Dam on Sunday. Although a security checkpoint for cars, they wave most people through and the lack of truck traffic has made it easier and quicker to get to the dam. We’ll have that story soon.

We’ll be mentioning the Las Vegas Calendars for charity every couple of weeks until the end of the year. No excuses — these quality big photo calendars are only $5 including shipping with proceeds going to a great cause. We will not rest until every reader gets one!

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Hard Rock Football – The Joint at the Hard Rock was truly rocking this past Monday night for the Seahawks/49’ers game! Outside of the various parties held at local strip clubs, this is possibly the sexiest Monday Night Football (MNF) party in town. This is probably also your cheapest chance to check out the venue that has hosted The Stones, The Who, The Eagles and a laundry list of classic and modern rock shows.

Admission is free, and three huge screens show the game with the Michaels/Madden commentary and sound played over the concert quality sound system. Music is played during the commercials with scantily clad go-go girls dancing throughout the venue. Appetizers are available ($3-6) along with $1.50 Bud or Bud Light drafts to wash them down.

The event is always sponsored by a local radio station and not only draws plenty of locals, but a surprising number of women for a MNF event. While the Hard Rock is the place to see and be seen, this is serious football with plenty of loud cheering for both sides. Remember that MNF starts at 6 PM Pacific Time.

Club Rubber Halloween Costume Ball – Club Rubber and the N9NE Group presents a wicked party for the over 21 crowd. Costumes are mandatory.

  • Where: Rain in the Desert at the Palms
  • When: Oct. 31 at 9 p.m.
  • How Much: $25 (Women) $30 (Men)

Halloween Bingo Bash – Palms Casino Resort will host a special Halloween Bingo Bash on October 31 including cash giveaways.

Calendar For Charity – Now is the time to get a 2003 Las Vegas calendar and help a good cause. These are the same high quality Las Vegas calendars you find in hotels and gift shops at or below the gift shop price with all proceeds going to charity. See the beautiful photos and purchase info atá 2003 Las Vegas Calendar.

Screamers Haunted House – is in the fourth year in operation. Designed and built by some of Las Vegas’ top scenic designers and illusion builders for the big shows here in town. Click for details on this fun magic-based fright experience!

Best Magic Show – You still have time to vote for your favorite Las Vegas magician in our “Best Of’ poll. Simply head to the main page of AccessVegas.Com and vote. For those wondering the ommission of a deserving David Copperfield (who spends about half the year playing Las Vegas), this time around we only included magicians who regularly headline their own show here year around.

Sexiest Ladies Night – in Las Vegas is advertised at Wednesday nights at Venus at The Venetian. Ladies drink from 11 PM -1 AM. Click for more details.

Showroom Cancer Survivor – Our friend Larry G. Jones with the great free show at Fitzgerald’s recently got a nice write-up in the local paper regarding his show and earlier battle with cancer.

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,á tours, and golf 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 suggesting they subscribe. They’ll thank you and we thank you.



Show Review: David Copperfield – Portal

Note: David Copperfield just finished a brief run at the MGM but returns at the end of the month to play Oct 31. – Nov. 6 and again Dec. 24 – Jan. 1. Due to the popularity of this show and high ticket demand, you may wish to reserve your seats as far in advance as possible.

I’d like to call David Copperfield a living legend. If you are old enough to gamble you have seen him do everything from walk through the Great Wall of China to make the Statue of Liberty vanish on his famous television specials. However, I won’t. “Living Legend” sometimes connotes a a respected performer, past their prime, churning it out for the buck. Mr. Copperfield is still very much at the top of his game.

He’s either a great actor or still loves what he is doing (probably a bit of both) because from the minute he hits the stage, he’s having fun and that makes you want to like him. He could be a nobody just starting out and you would like him. But he gets right into it with an illusion that has him floating upwards through a plate of steel.

Click Here To Read The Rest Of This Review

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.

Featured Tour: Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon Tour by Bus – Just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip lies Red Rock Canyon – one of the Mojave Desert’s most beautiful outdoor areas. The tour takes visitors into Spring Mountain State Park, a working ranch nestled at the base of the dramatic Wilson Cliffs that was once owned by eccentric millionaire Howard Hughes. The trip continues to the Red Rock Canyon National Recreation area with a stop at the visitor center followed by a leisurely lap around the 13-mile scenic loop.

Additional Tours Including Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, City, Scenic, National Parks, and Adventure

Featured Golf Course: Royal Links

Royal Links Golf Club – Royal Links Golf Club was built to honor the rich history and tradition of the game of golf. This links style course features holes inspired by the British Open rotation courses such as the ôRoad Holeö from St. Andrews and the ôPostage Stampö from Royal Troon. Carnoustie, Turnberry, Royal Liverpool, Prestwick, Royal Lytham, Muirfield and Royal Birkdale also provided inspiration for this unique golf course.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations


For comments or questions regarding Las Vegas, our content, or this newsletter please post to our message boards so that others may read and comment or write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com. We do certainly read them all and they help shape our content.

Ted Newkirk

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 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
October 16, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 7, 2001

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in 45 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 mailto:below

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

This Issue: David Copperfield

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: mailto:allvegastv@aol.com


 


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

TERRIBLE’S HOTEL CASINO – This hotel which sits on the site of the old Continental Hotel at Paradise and Flamingo (about a mile from the Strip) is worth checking out if you drive to town or rent a car. The casino is very nice with a roomy sports book (for a smaller property) and both the buffet and coffee shop are located upstairs away from the casino noise. Plus, a number of food specials (posted both outside and throughout the casino) are available 24/7 in the coffee shop.

The big news? They are using coinless slots that let you take the paper voucher you receive when you cash out and insert it in another machine for play. My early complaint about coinless slots is that you had to go redeem the voucher every time you switched machines but that is a moot point here. Story on these latest coinless slots at http://www.bergen.com/region/slots2720010127.htm

FILM AND PRINT – If it seems like you can’t turn on the TV or check out the movie listings without seeing Las Vegas, you are right. Production companies are flocking here to shoot commercials and launch products, and rarely a week goes by without work on a major motion picture. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-25-Thu-2001/living/15275322.html , http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-05-Mon-2001/living/15370507.html, and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-29-Mon-2001/living/15317157.html

LOW PAY – Las Vegas placed 82nd out of 125 metropolitan cities in a recent study of which cities are the best places to make and save money. Despite the growth, we ranked low in job quality, education, wealth, household income and housing costs. Despite low unemployment, many blue collar jobs don’t pay the big bucks and professionals can expect to start out at a lower rate of pay than the national average. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-30-Tue-2001/business/15323330.html

ART AND ARCHITECTURE – The Smithsonian is sponsoring trips to Las Vegas to explore an oft-ignored side of Las Vegas. No one is pretending that Las Vegas is a Mecca of culture, but there are a surprising number of things to see for the highbrow visitor. Story at http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/stories/20010126/t000007607.html

CRAPS LESSONS – A LA Times writer wrote a fun piece about his recent trip to Vegas, including what it was like to participate in one of those free casino gaming lessons. Story at http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/lat_vegas010204.htm

ROMP THROUGH DOWNTOWN – The Review-Journal just published an interesting article with photos about the Fremont St. Experience (better known to some as “downtown” or “Glitter Gulch”). They put together a simple walking tour of the casinos including interesting highlights to check out. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-04-Sun-2001/living/14746442.html

XFL and WWF – owner / promoter Vince McMahon seems to have a love affair with Las Vegas. The debut XFL game last Sat. night was broadcast live from Las Vegas, drawing 17% of all viewing households (about twice what they expected and more than the much touted NBA double-header the same day.) In addition, the WWF Feb. 25’th Pay-Per-View “No Way Out” will be broadcast from Las Vegas (4:45 PM Pacific).

The XFL was a big hit in the sports books as well, drawing much more wagering than expected. Las Vegas has embraced the team in a large way, but part of that is our way of lashing back at the NFL and NBA. Despite having a metro area population larger than Indianapolis, Orlando, or New Orleans, the leagues frown at owners even thinking about moving here (or awarding an expansion franchise) because of the legal sports betting.

Whether the XFL turns into a hit nationwide remains to be seen. We will report on the XFL when it brings Las Vegas to the spotlight as it did this last weekend, but not regularly.

WWF No Way Out Tickets – http://events.excite.com/event_info?id=731345

XFL Stories (related to the opener with the Las Vegas Outlaws):
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-04-Sun-2001/sports/15378145.html http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-09-Fri-2001/sports/15413629.html http://www.msnbc.com/news/526131.asp?cp1=1&cp1=1 http://www.pioneerplanet.com/seven-days/sun/sports/docs/033463.htm http://dailynews.philly.com/content/daily_news/2001/02/06/sports/RATE06.htm http://www.pioneerplanet.com/seven-days/wed/sports/docs/028311.htm


 


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* EFX Alive – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-02-Fri-2001/weekly/15323289.html
* Steve Wyrick, Melinda The First Lady of Magic (separate shows, one review) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Feb-02-Fri-2001/weekly/15338597.html

ESPY’s – The ESPN award show broadcasts from the MGM this Monday evening. Check local listings for time.

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=3230&cscheme=1

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

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Smith & Wollensky (next to MGM) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-26-Fri-2001/weekly/15288729.html
* Tommy Rocker’s (one block from Rio) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_02_08/bar_fly.html

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

Saturday – 55 ░F / 37 ░F Mostly Cloudy
Sunday – 54 ░F / 33 ░F Mostly Cloudy
Monday – 56 ░F / 32 ░F Showers
Tuesday – 60 ░F / 35 ░F Scattered Showers
Wednesday – 60 ░F / 35 ░F Scattered Showers

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FEATURE STORY: David Copperfield

by Sarah Swain

When you are going to see the show of the most famous illusionist
since Houdini, expectations are bound to be high, but I must confess that
David Copperfield lived up to my every hope.

From the moment he appears on stage (from nowhere of course), till he
takes his final bow, the entire audience is on the edge of its seats.

The tour, titled Unknown Dimension is designed to allow the audience
to be involved — so watch out because there’s a good chance you might
be picked like I was!

So what did he do to me? Make me disappear? Levitate me? No, he
changed the colour of my pants.

In the cheekiest trick of the whole show, the man who vanished the
Statue of Liberty, levitated across the Grand Canyon, and walked
through the Great Wall of China, swapped the colour of my underwear
with another girl, in a trick which included his classy joke; Should
I do it the hard way … or the easy way. The hard? OK, I’ll take her
out to dinner first. Great.

You could be lucky though. Two members of the crowd were levitated
whilst sitting on a huge red sofa, others had a tissue changed into a
mouse in their hands. This is nothing though, compared with the
finale acts. One sees him picking thirteen members of the audience at
random, and making them disappear (some of them, apparently appear
miles, away, though I’m not sure if that’s all hype), and in the
other, he transports someone anywhere they want to be.

Tonight, he invites on to the stage a teenage boy, who, we are told,
has always wanted to go to Bali. And, believe it or not (literally),
he takes him there. A video screen appears. We see a beach, the sea,
and cameras and crew. A clock shows the time and Bali live is in
the corner.

Yeah, yeah, you’re thinking. That’s ridiculous. The piece in Bali is
all prerecorded. They went and filmed it. We thought the same.
Until he began throwing silver balls in to the audience, with his back
turned. If you caught one you had to go on the stage. He lines the
people up, and takes a Polaroid of them, which he gets one of them to
date and sign. Next, we gets one of then to think of two random
letters, and write them on his arm.

He puts the Polaroid in the boy’s pocket, and leads him to sit on a
throne-like chair. It is on an arm, which moves off the stage, and
suspends over the audience. He throws a silver sheet over them.
Flash. Bang. They are gone … all eyes move to the video screen. A
similar sheet is held over the sand on the beach. Flash. Bang.
There they are. David shows his arm to the camera … with the same
letters on it … the boy takes the Polaroid out … the same audience
members, and signature.

People around me start to scream Ahhhhh! Its raining!!! Spray
covers the audience. Flash. Bang. Mr. Copperfield stands on the
table in front of us, with a grin on his face, throwing sand from his
pockets. Wow.

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Sarah Swain is a 20 year old aspiring journalist from Sheffield, England who can’t wait for her next trip to Las Vegas. You can reach her with comments or questions at mailto:sarahelizabethswain@hotmail.com

EDITORS NOTE: David Copperfield returns to The MGM Grand Feb. 22 to March 7. This show sells very well and advance ticket purchase is strongly suggested. You can purchase tickets online at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1 Our entire listing of shows and upcoming headliners is at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Cathy & Curt Satter from Gardena, CA wrote (regarding last week’s poll, results in the Online Poll section):

>Last Tuesday evening (Jan.á30th) my husband and I had dinner at the
>Top of the World Restaurant (Stratosphere Tower).á I made reservations a week
>in advance as we were celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary.
>
>The food and the service was excellent.á The atmosphere, along with
>the view was exceptional.á I was leery at first because I was told
>when we made reservations everything would be a la carte and our
>experience at other restaurants that serve a la carte have not been as
>good.á Sure the Steak & Australian Lobster (AKA Surf and Turf) was $58
>as was their two Australian Lobster Tails, but they also offered one
>tail at the price of $30 which was plenty of food.á The vegetables and
>potatoes that were served (extra charge) was large enough servings
>that we could split it between the two of us.
>
>Thank you for supplying this feedback page.á I would recommend this
>restaurant for someone that wants to celebrate a special occasion or
>have a real nice intimate dinner with special friends.

You just did!

Denny Ankomeus of Fort Atkinson, WI wrote:

>I didn’t vote in this subject’s poll because my reason
>for choosing a certain hotel is different than those
>listed.á Perhaps this is a bit unusual but I always
>stay at The Gold Coast.á Yes, the staff is very
>friendly, etc. but the main reason is the “Kinda Dixie
>Jazz Band”.á I’ve been following some of these superb
>musicians since they played at The Barbary Coast.á I
>know of absolutely no other place where a music lover
>can spend five and a half hours Mon. through Fri. for
>such a minimal cost.á These are some of the finest
>musicians in Vegas and I’ve witnessed many a well
>deserved standing ovation from a packed room after
>another great number.á I expect my reason for picking
>this particular hotel is different from most but there
>it is.á Thank you for allowing me this opportunity.

For those interested in visiting the Gold Coast, a free shuttle runs from the Barbary Coast on The Strip (departing at the side entrance) to the Gold Coast from 9 AM to Midnight every 15-20 minutes. (This is also a great way to get over to The Rio for free as you don’t have to be a hotel guest or produce any ID.)

Kevin Kuwahara wrote:

>Hi, Do you know of any casinos that are going to set up a
>large viewing area for the first weekend of the NCAA Basketball
>Tournament (March 15 thru 18)?á As most of the sportsbooks
>have a rather small seating area, we are looking to find
>accommodations somewhere where we will be able to comfortably view
>all the games.
>
>Thanks in advance

Every year, I hear stories about people who stake out their seats in the sportsbooks as early as 5 AM to make sure they have a spot for that weekend. I am not aware of any hotel that sets up a separate or expanded area showing all the games, but I don’t pretend to have visited every casino during March Madness. Readers, if you are aware of a property that accommodates the crowds in this manner, let us know at mailto:allvegastv@aol.com I know a number of people in hotel and gaming management read our newsletter … so how about it, guys? Set up a tent with 50 TV’s and a satellite better area and you’ll gain a lot of happy new customers!

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

Your input is welcome. Write us a “letter to the editor” at 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.


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


AIRLINE SPECIALS – Both America West and National Airlines have hubs in Las Vegas, and now both offer pass-through travelers the option to stay in Las Vegas without charging a stopover fee. Sounds like a great way to sneak a day or two in Las Vegas into that next business or pleasure trip! Also, America West is offering 5% off of ALL fares purchased online right now.

America West Airlines – http://www.americawest.com
National Airlines – http://www.nationalairlines.com/flash.asp

ONLINE POLL – How interested are you in online gambling? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from our last poll “What most influences which Las Vegas hotel you stay in?”

Low Room Rates 27%
Location 25%
Amenities (restaurants, pool, spa) 22%
“Lucky” Games 15%
Friendly Staff 9%

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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!

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.
February 7, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 23, 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: Aladdin Grand Opening

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


 

 


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FEATURE STORY: Aladdin Grand Opening

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Michelle D. from Texas wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jean Haka of Waukesha, WI wrote:

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

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

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

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.


 

 


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

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

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

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

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

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

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.
August 23, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – February 9, 2000

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! 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, but only in it’s entirety.

This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com Quality Las Vegas Tourist Information – Hotels, Casinos, Insider Tips, and more. If it’s about Las Vegas, it’s AccessVegas.Com!

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

* Discount Hotel Rooms – All Cities: http://www.lodging.com/affiliates/us_reservations.cgi?remote=tedinvegas
* Discount Rental Cars – All Cities: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Find Lowest Airfares: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

HOTEL MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your opinion of the Las Vegas hotels you stay at by posting a note to our new board at http://boards.accessvegas.com á We want to hear from you!


 


This Issue: THE ROMANTIC LAS VEGAS CHEAPSKATE by Matt WeatherfordLAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

MICHAEL JORDEN – is among the many sports stars appearing at this year’s ESPY awards this Monday here in Las Vegas and tickets are still available! Other notables appearing are Andre Agassi, Tiger Woods, Mark McGwire, Mia Hamm and Steffi Graf, Danny Glover, Joe Pesci, Tyra Banks, Martin Sheen, Burt Reynolds and Cybill Shepherd. That list doesn’t include the high profile celebrities who come for the celebration. Stories at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-09-Wed-2000/sports/12926104.html and http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-09-Wed-2000/sports/12926226.html Tickets at (702) 891-7777 and MGM discount rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

PRICE GOUGING – KVBC 3 just completed an undercover investigation and found photo developing shops on the Strip that are charging up to $43.00 per roll for one-hour film developing. Story at http://www.msnbc.com/local/kvbc/7845.asp Even though you are on vacation, you are a customer. Never forget that a store needs YOUR business and ALWAYS ask how much the TOTAL cost for something will be if it isn’t clear. Many tour operators pull the same stunt by not including taxes, airport fees, and more in those glossy ads you see.

Our suggestion for photo developing when on vacation? We bring a bunch of envelopes for those mail-order photo developers with us. http://www.clarkcolor.com is one of many that do this service (not a sponsor, but we use them with no problem regularly). Every couple of rolls, just pop the film in the mail and the finished prints will be delivered a couple days after you get home with no worry about price gouging or losing your photos on the way home.

We also are giving away a Las Vegas Dining guide in our contest section.

THE TILLERMAN – Speaking of fine dining in a great atmosphere, The Tillerman is a short cab ride from the Strip and one of the better kept secrets, until now! Bring a thick wallet for this one, but be prepared for an exquisite setting with food to match. Story at http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00020301d.html

COMPS – While one should never play for comps, if you are going to play, you might as well scoop up as many of them as possible! Linda E. Bushyager wrote a great article on on getting and using comps at http://members.aol.com/gamblinge/comps.htm

BRUNCH – is always a nice treat in Las Vegas. Nothing starts off a Sunday morning like a relaxing fine meal. Michael Paskevich reviewed a number of them at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-09-Wed-2000/lifestyles/12913264.html

STUCK AT MCCARRAN? – If your flight home gets delayed, you can go work out your frustrations now instead of dropping your winnings back in the airport slots. 24 Hour Fitness has opened an airport location and will even provide you workout clothes for a reasonable fee. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-07-Mon-2000/news/12899293.html

U.S. 93 CLOSURES – if you drive in from Phoenix, New Mexico, Texas or points southeast, note that U.S. 93 is going to be closed for 4 hours at a time intermittently over the next month. You might want to print out the info at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-09-Wed-2000/news/12922755.html and keep it handy. Closures will only be in the middle of the night.

Winner: Holly Carter of GA is the T-shirt winner.

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

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

DAVID COPPERFIELD – bring his magic to Caesars Palace Feb. 3 – March 2. This time around, they say he’s making the audience disappear! Tickets at (702) 731-7333 and Caesars discount rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Caesars link).

DAVID BRENNER – comes to C2K at The Venetian Feb. 18 – 20. The performance on the 19’th will be broadcast totally live on HBO! Tickets at (702) 948-3007 and Venetian discount rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Venetian link).

BUDDY – the hit musical comes to the Las Vegas Hilton Feb. 22 – March 5. This powerful show traces the life and music of Buddy Holly. Tickets at (702) 732-5755 and Las Vegas Hilton discount rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Las Vegas Hilton link).

TINA TURNER – with special guest LIONEL RICHIE take to the stage at the MGM Grand on Sat. April 29. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and MGM discount rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

SPLASH – Michael Paskevich has reviewed the updated version of this Riviera show at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Feb-04-Fri-2000/weekly/12873797.html and book the show online at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?cscheme=5&amid=143


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


FEATURE STORY: THE ROMANTIC LAS VEGAS CHEAPSKATE by Matt WeatherfordI am writing this from the guy’s perspective, but all my romantic
tips apply in reverse, too, meaning you girls can dazzle your boys by
following my brilliant advice.

Guys, one thing I am with the ladies is slick. Before I ensnared my
wife in my viscous love-grip, I could practically charm the pants off
of any woman without spending a dime. Now that I am happily married,
it’s time to open the vaults and reveal the secrets that drove the
ladies wild and kept Andrew Jackson and his buddies in my back pocket.

In Las Vegas, you don’t need to be a millionaire to show your partner
you’re got a heart a big as a Buick. Do it on the cheap, all the
while making it so romantic that your special someone never even
catches on.

THE ROMANTIC LIMO RIDE
A popular fantasy is to cruise slowly down Las Vegas Boulevard at
night in a stretch limousine. The twinkling, spinning lights reflect
off the car as it effortlessly glides in the traffic stream, and we
are tucked away behind the dark windows in our romantic mobile
hideaway. Another part of my fantasy is when the driver says, “You
guys were such great customers that I’m gonna let you have this ride
for free.”

In reality, the driver always wants his $35 an hour for the private
limo ride. And that doesn’t include the tip, which quickly tacks on
another 50 cents! To fulfill the fantasy for less, how about a slow
ride down the Strip aboard public transit? The Citizen Area Transit
Route 301 up the Strip is $2 per person, or $4 if you go the extra
mile and pay for your sweetie too. Just like a limo, the buses have
big windows, professional drivers, and move very slowly. Climb aboard
with your squeeze, fight your way through the mob of other romantic
couples to a pair of hard bench seats and get ready for good lovin’
action. Sure, you’re sharing your limo with 50 other people, it stops
at every intersection to load and unload, and the guy next to you is
drooling, but these are the sorts of minor points that will only be
noticed by a woman not in love.

Be sure to have a six-pack of Schlitz on ice back in the room to seal
the deal, because she’s gonna be itchin’ for kissin’ when the ride is
over. One word of caution: keep your pants on while riding the bus.
We have learned they are very strict about this.

If you want to whack your girl over the head with the fat end of the
charm stick, get her a real limo ride right from the airport. For
less than $5 each, you can ride Las Vegas Limo like you would a
shuttle. The catch is that you won’t be alone. The driver packs
people in and drops people off at their hotels. Guys, I suggest
getting a hotel on the North end of the Strip, so you get a few
minutes of private time after he’s dropped off all the people staying
at nice hotels. Once the last of the other folks gets off, lean over
and smack her on the lips!

THE ROMANTIC EATS
Very few people come up to me and ask, “Matt, I want to take my gal
someplace classy for dinner. Where do you recommend?” But when
someone does, I have an answer.

First off, breakfast is not very romantic, so don’t think you can cut
corners by splitting the $2.49 steak and eggs at Arizona Charlie’s,
or a 99-cent half-pound hot dog at Slots-a-Fun. On the other hand, if
you’ve found yourself a gal who finds these exciting, run to the
nearest pawn shop and buy the cheapest engagement ring they have:
she’s a keeper!

For the lady of more discriminating taste, I recommend the following
sybaritic delights:

The Peppermill Coffee Shop – don’t let its humble appearance fool
you. This small free-standing coffee shop next door to the Riviera is
the sort of place that brought down Gomorrah. Dark velvets, fake,
silver plants, dim lighting and plush booths make this the perfect
place to act out your role-playing fantasies of being a 70s player,
with your lady being a tough-talking hoochie. Want to be a little
decadent? Have the waffles with fruit for dinner. If you order
carefully, you two lovebirds can get out for less than $20. But,
don’t leave before going to the swank-uluxe lounge where a bubbling
cauldron belches fire and the booths provide more privacy than a
modern condominium complex. The drinks are priced right and strong
enough to intoxicate even the most hardened lover.

Center Stage – The food ain’t so hot, but the view is oo-la-la!
Well-hidden on the second floor of the Plaza Hotel downtown, the
Center Stage has a domed dining room that looks straight down Fremont
Street. If you’re smart, you’ll have a few strong $1 dollar cocktails
downstairs to deaden your tastebuds. A complete meal can be had for
about $10 a person, and you get that much value just out of the
number of waiters and servers who hover around. After dinner, why not
head downstairs and enjoy the awfully good acts in the Omaha Lounge.
It’ll give you a chance to let your dinner settle and then see how
vigilantly they enforce their “No Dancing” policy.

Roberta’s – If your honeybun respects food, then why not take the
romantically dangerous after-dark stroll to Roberta’s at the El
Cortez where the savvy man can let his girl stuff her greasy piehole
until she can’t stuff anymore. Plus, Roberta’s respects food. Why
else would they call the 18-ounce steak “Mr. Porterhouse?” Other
specials include “Mr. Crab” and “Se±or Prime Rib.” All can be had
well below their fair market value. A word of warning, gents, the
task of arriving at Roberta’s is not for the squeamish or anyone
easily deterred by bums or stench.

With the right presentation, just about any meal can be romantic, but
not the buffet. Never the buffet. “Why not?” you might be wondering.
You say, “Last time I ate at Circus Circus with my buddies, it seemed
like the perfect oasis for a late night rendezvous.”

Guys, you’re right, the Circus Circus buffet has exactly the sort of
ambience to set the mood for amore. But it’s not the room that will
mess things up; it’s us. Just when everything is going so well, and
her eyes are glazed over with awe, we always end up talking while our
mouth is full of veal, or sucking Jell-o up our nose with a straw, or
gulping down some of those desserts that make you gassy. Let’s face
it: at the buffet, it’s better to pig out and get your money’s worth
than seduce your girls.

THE ROMANTIC VIEW
It’s easy to take a friend to the top of the Stratosphere or Paris’
Eiffel Tower, but those costs $6-$8 per person, and that’s money that
could be better spent on a delightful bottle of ripple with dinner.
Besides, the Eiffel Tower observation deck is covered with chain link
and it brings back too many bad memories of my time in the Louisiana
Correctional Facilities.

I say, keep the cash and take your lady to the top of the Rio’s
Masquerade Village. Although it’s only half the height of the Strat’s
observation deck, it’s free. You and your lady will step out onto the
outdoor deck and scan the entire valley, with a great view of the
casinos you will take her to later for some nickel video poker. If
your special someone asks why you’re not at the Stratosphere, don’t
admit that you’re a cheapskate, just say that it’s too crowded and
too “bourgeois.” That word drives the ladies mad. Or say they had an
outbreak of malaria over there and you care too much to let her get
deathly ill. Now, if that doesn’t make her swoon, she’s got a heart
made of corn-cobs.

The Rio’s elevator is in the Masquerade Village area of the casino.
At night there is a dress code, meaning dress pants and collars, and
pants and shirts like that cost money. Plus, there might be a minimum
number of expensive drinks you have to buy. I suggest you take your
girl during the day and wear really dark sunglasses to simulate the
evening.

Of course, what I have just revealed aren’t all of my secrets. I have
to keep some of the mystery, after all. They should be enough to get
even the lowliest among us cheapskates to see that romance and
pinching pennies aren’t always mutually exclusive. Good luck and good
loving.

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

Few know the cheaper side of Las Vegas like frequent visitor Matt Weatherford. Big Empire’s twice monthly newsletter is packed with great travel stories, often about Las Vegas and done with a hilarious tongue-in-cheek twist. We strongly recommend signing up for this one at http://www.bigempire.com/buddies


 


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:Sam Profio wrote:

>Ted, still enjoying your newsletter very much!á I noted in your Feb
>4th issue that one of AAA’s four diamond rooms included the Las Vegas
>Hilton.á No way!á Not unless they have nicer rooms than the one we
>had.á We were just there the second week of Jan.á Not only was it old
>and ordinary, the carpet was wrinkled in bunches and worn.á We tripped
>over it more than once and that was before any partying.á The only
>redeeming item was the electronic James Bond drapes!á The rooms were
>clean though.
>
>I believe we were in the North Tower.á It was the one to the left of
>center where each tower splits.á Hopefully they have newer and better
>furnished rooms in one of their other two towers.
>
>While I’m at it I may as well review the property.á The staff are
>friendly and do a nice job.á The casino is on the small side and their
>location off the strip is less than appealing.á They could use more
>table games especially craps.á The casino hardly ever seemed to have
>many people in it.á It was the second week of Jan.á but the strip
>casinos had action.
>
>The Star Trek experience is the best thing they have going and I am
>not even a big fan.á It is the best thing they have going because in
>addition to the actual experience/ride they include a fun themed
>restaurant/bar and casino section to go with it.
>
>We tried this property because we were able to get a good room rate
>($29/night) but I would not stay there again even at that price.
>Location, location…..

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

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.


 


ONGOING POLL – “How many times a year do you visit Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in next weeks issue!FREE CONTESTS:

Note: 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 10’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). 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.

LAS VEGAS 2000 – Las Vegas Dining Guide. Enter at (contest closed)

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

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

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

New to the list? Back issues 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!

You may subscribe to this newsletter by going to:
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com or sending a blank email to
below

All contents copyright 2000 Ted Newkirk
February 9, 2000

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