Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 26, 2008

AccessVegas.com InsideráVibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Special Events
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! A cloudy Las Vegas with scattered rain showers, that is. I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving weekend. Even if you live outside the U.S. or Canada and aren’t having a Thanksgiving celebration sometime during this month, take a little time to count your blessings. Life isn’t perfect, but if we dig down and look around, we can all find something to be thankful for.

Fortunately, our current weather isn’t miserable and the rain is infrequent enough that it shouldn’t be interrupting anyone’s vacation. Nice change of pace for we locals and what the heck… much warmer than most of the rest of the United States this weekend.

As I just looked out my window (literally as I type), I saw the Virgin Air 747 coming out of the clouds with a plane full of our European friends (probably some readers among them) getting ready to touch down. I’m continually thankful and appreciative of the time, cost and effort you exhibit to make the Las Vegas visit whether you are a few hours away by car or spending half a day on an airplane to visit from the other side of the world.

Phantom û The Las Vegas Spectacular continues the amazing run at Venetian Las Vegas.

A couple of months ago, Phantom passedá1,000 performances which included:

  • “The Phantom,” has spent 1,000 hours in the make-up chair, equating to over 41 days
  • The delicate ingenue “Christine Daae” has had a total of 11,000 costume changes to date
  • Mr. Ubaldo Piangi has belted out 2,000 high Cs, the ultimate note for any tenor
  • More than 3,802 hours have been spent maintaining the other star of the show, the one-ton, 15-foot tall, 16-foot wide chandelier
  • The crew has executed 14,000 elaborate set changes, creating 13 separate locations on stage each night
  • Nightly, “Christine Daae” shares two kisses with “The Phantom” and three with the charming “Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny,” amounting to 5,000 kisses since opening night

From the moment you enter the magnificent custom-built theatre you are immersed in the storied Paris Opera House and become part of The Phantom’s world. Featuring every beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber song from the original, spectacular sets, new effects, and a breathtaking chandelier experience, Phantom is an only-in-Vegas experience.áClick for Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular Tickets

Historic Las Vegas Hotels and Showgirls – I found this great YouTube video with a montage of vintage Vegas stuff. Well worth a look especially if you have some extra time off this holiday weekend: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkxJVeJMCGM

hilton grand vacation club las vegas

hilton grand vacation club las vegas

Hilton Grand Vacations Photos – If you are like me, you’ve seen this place up (more or less) across from The Sahara but never given any thought to walking inside the place. After all, it really isn’t a casino or entertainment venue. When we sent Mark to shoot some current photos of The Sahara (see previous issue), I had him snap a few of the Hilton Grand Vacations. Nice place… click on any of the above photos for a quick virtual tour.

Screeching To A Halt – For the first time in 40 years, Clark County (Las Vegas area) has LOST residents. An estimated 10,000 people have left town this year. That in stark contrast to the usual 4000-5000 per month who move here each month. In addition, Nevada unemployment is at 7.6%, the highest in 23 years and headed for the 10% mark.

What does that mean to you, the visitor? Perhaps something good: Las Vegas got “hot” starting about 2002. Reality shows, non-stop coverage on travel networks and celeb-gossip programs. This brought way too many carpetbaggers to town. People who didn’t care about Las Vegas, the history, the live-and-let-live tradition which attracts visitors, and who only saw visitors basically as people with wallets to be drained. Unfortunately, Las Vegas’ reputation took a bit of a beating as customer service went downhill while prices went way up. This is starting to change!

Those of us who have been here many, many years and love our town and love helping and serving (and are gratefuláá for) our visitors will be here long after the present economy has flushed out those who never belonged here in the first place.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

Boulder Stn from $30, Fiesta H from $29, Green Valley from $90, Red Rock from $90, Santa Fe Stn from $50, Sunset Stn from $50, Texas Stn from $25, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!


Nevada Ballet Theatre Dazzles Audiences With Its Cherished Holiday Favorite, The Nutcracker! – The most famous cast of holiday characters, including Clara, Fritz, the Mouse King and the Sugar Plum Fairy, reunite for Las Vegas’ most cherished and beloved annual event û The Nutcracker! Staged by Ballet Mistress Clarice Geissel-Rathers, with original choreography by Bruce Steivel, this annual tradition will be presented on Wednesday, December 17 through Sunday, December 28, 2008 at UNLV’s Judy Bayley Theatre, 4505 Maryland Parkway. Perhaps the most famous fairytale ballet of all time, The Nutcracker premiered over 100 years ago in St. Petersburg, Russia. Click to Read The Full Story …

mandalay bay shark reef las vegas

‘Tis the Season for Holiday Fun at Shark Reef Aquarium – This holiday season, Santa will be making his list and checking it twice at Mandalay BayÆs Shark Reef Aquarium. Children are invited to share last minute holiday wishes with “Santa in the Shipwreck” December 21-24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With each paid admission, children under the age of 12 also will receive a complimentary candy cane and photograph with jolly St. Nick to remember this unique holiday experience. Entry to Shark Reef Aquarium is $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages five through 12. Children four and younger receive complimentary access. Click to view Mandalay Bay Shark Reef Pictures


New Treasure Island (TI) Las Vegas Room Design

Rest Easy With the New Room Designs of TI and Circus Circus – This fall, Las Vegas visitors are invited to indulge in the new contemporary comforts of Treasure Island and Circus Circus. At Treasure Island, tempting new room designs pair plush luxuries with modern conveniences. Framed by soothing neutrals and draped in crisp white sheeting, each roomÆs dreamy focal point is the TI Elite Sensational Pillow-Top Bed. Specially designed to provide uniform shape, true back support and soothing comfort, the bed is so sensational, itÆs available for purchase. To keep visitors plugged in, TI also made must-have technologies standard û from 26-inch LCD flat-screen televisions to MP3/iPod-compatible clock-radios. High-speed Internet access also is available.

At Circus Circus, guests are invited to be among the first to experience a modern new room decor that combines a calming neutral palette with fun pops of vibrant color. Located in the propertyÆs West Tower, each standard accommodation features a pillow-top mattress, sleek marble-topped workstation and comfortable sitting area. Hi-tech amenities include 32-inch plasma televisions and wireless Internet access.

Fall Into Relaxation At The Spas Of MGM MIRAGE – From a revitalizing coffee pedicure to an aromatherapy massage designed to melt away the stress and strain caused by long summer days, these fall-inspired treatments leave spa-goers relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.

  • Hot Cafe y Horchata Pedicure, MGM Grand Spa û Enliven your day with this energizing foot treatment. The stimulating 50-minute pedicure includes a hot coffee foot mask and a sweet milk foot soak. ($95, Monday-Thursday; $105, Friday-Sunday)
  • Moroccan Jasmine Tea Manicure and Pedicure, Kim Vo Salon at The Mirage û This intoxicating 90-minute service begins with a gentle sugar scrub infused with exotic jasmine oil. Next, guests enjoy a calming manicure and pedicure before a nourishing jasmine- and green tea-infused creme leaves hands and feet silky smooth. ($155)
  • Relaxation Massage, The Spa at New York-New York û During each indulgent 50- or 75-minute session, a citrus aromatherapy oil awakens the senses while a gentle scalp massage melts away tensions. The latter treatment also includes an exfoliating peppermint foot scrub and massage. As a special treat, guests are invited to enjoy a delicious orange and chocolate bar after their service. ($125, 50 minutes; $185, 75 minutes)

Gambling Talk: Introduction To Poker Tournaments – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the tenth of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Introduction To Poker Tournaments (broadband)


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

This will be our first trip to Vegas. We will be staying at the MGM Grand. I was actually in Vegas many years ago when I was like 13 so I don’t count that. We will be in town for an expo but will have the late afternoons and evenings free. What would you say would be the things not to miss?

We are in our early 40’s and still like to be on the go not couch potato kind of people. What would you say is the best place to get a great Prime Rib dinner as my fiance is a prime rib lover. Any advice you could give would be helpful as we would like to make the most of our time in Vegas.

Thanks,

Colleen from New Jersey

Ted Responds:

With so much to do and see, I try to steer clear of suggesting “must see” things to those who have never visited or have not been here in years. Also… you’ll be back (trust me on that one) so don’t kill yourself trying to do everything. Especially when here for a convention. Some tips:

1. DO go read the back issues of our newsletter (archive links are listed by month on the right sidebar… scroll down the site when you click to it) You’ll be far better informed than most other visitors and thus be able to make the most of your time.

2. Primarily Prime Rib in the Orleans gets raves both for food and atmosphere. A quick two mile cab ride from your hotel, The Orleans is a nice, big, full-size casino with a mix of locals and tourists:áOrleans Hotel Casino Las Vegas Photo Set

3. Voodoo Lounge on top of the Rio won’t scare off those over 30. Call ahead to verify but usually no cover until sometime in the evening. Moderate dress code enforced (don’t show up in a t-shirt and old tennis shoes). If possible, get there 45 minutes before sunset and watch The Strip light up in front of your eyes outdoors while you enjoy a cocktail.

Many of the photos in this set were taken there at sunset (the others were taken from Stratosphere): Las Vegas At Dusk Photo Set


I know there are free shuttles to off strip casinos/hotels such as the Rio, Sam’s Town……….but is there any free shuttles to the new Cannery or Silverton? Is there still a free one to Gold Coast? A lot of the sites are not updated on free shuttles……….. IF I am going to spend money, I would rather do it IN the hotels/casinos……….not on getting there.

Thanks!

Yankee

Ted Responds:

I absolutely agree that you’ll have a better chance of winning at a “local’s” casino. No guarantees… you can have a bad run of luck anywhere. But state revenue statistics seem to show that year in and year out, local’s casinos pay out the best.

We stopped posting a free shuttle list some time ago because that information is subject to constant change. If you print it out and then it isn’t accurate when you arrive, we get the blame!

Many off-strip hotels do have a free shuttle. Some (like South Point last time we checked) are only for guests going to and from the strip. Others are happy to take visitors from the strip to their casino and back.

My advice? Call the various hotels you wish to visit upon your arrival. Tell them you are staying on The Strip (or downtown if the case) and ask if they have a free shuttle there and back, from where, and what hours it runs.

Enjoy your visit and let us know how it went when you get back!


We love coming to Las Vegas. Try to come 2 times a year but the cost of a flight from Ohio is getting way out of our price. Any tips on how to save money on a flight and still have money left to gamble with?

Jeanne from Lorain, OH

Ted Responds:

You can always check your local paper travel sections for package deals (sometimes a regular charter flight deal may be available that you wouldn’t find online). For example, Allegient Air has non-stopsáfrom Toledo (not too far from you) and usually has really reasonable pricing.

Also, keep in mind that airfares may be up, but hotel prices are down. If you have to spend more for air, make up the difference with your choice of hotel. Let’s face it, most of the time in Las Vegas you just need a place to put your luggage and get some shut-eye. Our friends at I4Vegas continue to really have some great deals: Las Vegas Hotel Deals


As a long time recipient of your excellent newsletter I thought it was about time I made a small contribution. My wife and I have just returned to the UK after our latest visit to Las Vegas, (about our 12th trip in the last 10 years or so), once again we had a wonderful time.

Even though we are not big gamblers, we only play the low stake slots, we still enjoy the atmosphere and feel of the place. Our main vices are the restaurants and the shops so here are a few recommendations your readers might like to try.

  • Carnevino Located in the Palazzo Hotel – This is one of the best in Las Vegas, food, service, atmosphere all top class, itÆs a little pricey but well worth a visit.
  • The Steakhouse at Circus Circus – Best steakhouse in Las Vegas. They also have a Champagne Brunch, (Sunday 9:30, 11:30 and 1:30), itÆs the best in Las Vegas and only $35.95, don’t miss it.
  • 9 Fine Irishmen at New York New York – Great Irish bar, Saturday night live Irish Band, Magners, Guinness and a bloody good sing song not to be missed.(The foods pretty good as well).
  • Memphis Championship Barbecue. 2250 E.Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas, NV 8911 (702) 260-6909. www.memphis-bbq.com – The ribs are the best you will ever taste anywhere and also the service and food are great and the prices are as good as the food.
  • Montana Meat Co. Durango, (9135 S. Durango Dr. Las Vegas, NV 89113. (702) 407-0362 www.montanameatco.com – Excellent food, great service and above all very reasonably priced.

If anyone fancies a little road trip away from the bright lights of the strip take a trip to see the Pioneer Saloon 30 miles south of Vegas at Goodsprings you may even see the ghost. ThatÆs all, hope this is of use to someone keep up the good work and see you in Vegas come Superbowl Weekend.

John & Sheila from Leeds, England


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

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:

  • 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
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 19
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veteran’s Day November 11

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

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All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

November 26, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 22, 2008

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

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


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! Lots to get to, so we’ll dive right in:

10 Years For O – My how time flies. I can still remember my first walk through Bellagio and wondering how the new (at the time) Cirque du Soleil show O would fare. Time has given the positive verdict and we want to congratulate Cirque du Soleil’s O on ten years here in Las Vegas. Cirque du Soleil O Tickets

George Wallace Offers Early Voters Complimentary Tickets – George Wallace, headliner of Las Vegas’ “Best 10 p.m. Show,” is offering one complimentary show ticket to all patrons who present an “I Voted” sticker to the Flamingo box office. Early voters may redeem their “I Voted” sticker for a George Wallace show ticket any time between now and November 11. This offer can’t be combined with any other offer and the “I Voted” sticker must be surrendered upon receiving the complimentary show ticket. George Wallace Tickets

Don’t Forget… Last Chance To See Mamma Mia! At Mandalay Bay – Time is ticking down on the final chance to see another extraordinary long-running fixture of the Las Vegas Strip. Mamma Mia! has consistently been ranked as as a Top 10 show year after year, and there is no substitute for seeing it in Las Vegas. Do so before the curtain closes just after the end of 2008. Mamma Mia! Las Vegas Tickets

Local Housing Market – is looking to be in the tank a long time. I won’t spend a long time on it, but a little bit of new news: The highest areas of foreclosure in the Las Vegas area are in the Northwest (and far Northwest part of town in areas like Centennial Hills). Especially for those of you from out of town who are financially stable and thinking of buying a vacation home here, think twice about buying in these areas. Here’s why:

Las Vegas is really spread out. Most of the newer development (including in this area) is a long drive from The Strip. (Long time locals joke that it should be called “South Reno” as it seems like you have driven halfway to Reno to get there). What good is a dirt cheap foreclosure when you are nowhere near The Strip or the airport?

Now… if you are moving to retire or moving here with a family and don’t care about being close to business centers, the airport, or The Strip, this might be for you. New, quiet neighborhoods that are no different than living in parts of Phoenix, Albuquerque or newer areas of Southern California. For those wanting more research:

Halloween In Las Vegas Event List – As promised last issue, we have been compiling a list of Las Vegas Halloween Events. More event notices are coming in every few days, so you may want to bookmark that page, tell your friends about it, and check back often.

Help Us Help You Out – It is no secret times are tight. One of our (bigger) competitors just recently laid off 10% of their media staff. We have no such plans, but more than ever we ask for your support to keep this newsletter free and as jam-packed with information as always. Here’s how to help:

  • Many write and tell us how invaluable our advice and news was to helping plan a great Las Vegas vacation, but then mention (in the course of their email) that they booked their trip elsewhere.Please take a minute to check the rates of our travel partners Las Vegas Hotel Deals. You’ll be surprised at how low the rates are (sometimes lower than the actual hotel web page) and even if they are only a couple of dollars more a night, use them anyway. A very small price to support a sponsor when you consider the time and money our advice saves you on each trip!
  • Las Vegas’ top shows have been long-time sponsors of this newsletter. They buy space every week for those graphical ads in the upper right hand sidebar and make the investment that allows us to put out a great publication at no cost to you. Click thorough to the sites of each of these great shows and explore the idea of seeing them!
  • Help us spread the word that people can sign up for our newsletter (top of our main page AccessVegas.com)! Many of you participate/post to various message boards, travel boards and internet discussion groups. Make a post about us!Also, o you read (or subscribe to) any travel publications? How about a quick email to their editor, letting them know about this newsletter? Many of them would also appreciate subscribing (and in turn telling their readers) because of the wealth of Las Vegas travel news resources we put into each issue.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

California from $39, Fremont from $39, Gold Coast from $35, Main Street from $39, Orleans from $42, Sam’s Town from $36, Sun Coast from $58, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!


Mandalay Bay And The Mirage To Host Closed Circuit Viewing For De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao – “The Dream Match”Mandalay Bay and The Mirage will host closed circuit viewing in conjunction with the upcoming “Dream Match” between the ‘Golden Boy’ Oscar De La Hoya and Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao. (Tickets) The championship card, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, will be distributed by HBO-Pay-Per-View and the live telecast will begin at 6 p.m. PST. Circus Circus, TI, Monte Carlo, Excalibur, Luxor and New York-New York will host a limited number of closed circuit seats. Tickets for the fight sold out in one day and established a live gate of nearly $17 million. Click to Read The Full Story …

Usher To Perform At The Pearl Concert Theater On November 21 – R&B sensation Usher makes a stop in Las Vegas and is set to perform at The Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms on Friday, November 21, 2008 at 9:00 p.m. (Tickets) After being signed by legendary L.A. Reid at the young age of 14, Usher Raymond, released his debut album Usher in 1994. His first single, “Think of You” reached the top of the charts and paved his way to be known simply as Usher and make his mark on the R&B charts. Click to Read The Full Story …

Lance Burton Taps Keg At Hofbrauhaus In Honor Of Oktoberfest – Master Magician Lance Burtoná(Tickets) was honored by tapping the keg at the Hofbrauhaus Sunday night (Oct. 5). This is the fifth year in a row he has tapped the keg at Las Vegas’ landmark German restaurant the Hofbrauhaus. Next to the Christmas tree, Oktoberfest is the most popular German custom that Germany has ever exported to the rest of the world. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Smashing Pumpkins Reunion Tour Stops In Las Vegas At The Pearl At The Palms November 29 – Celebrating their 20th Anniversary Tour, The Smashing Pumpkins make their way to The Pearl at the Palms on Saturday, November 29, 2008 at 8:00 p.m. (Tickets) The Smashing Pumpkins – one of rock’s most forward-thinking, influential, and often misunderstood musical forces – commence their North American “20th Anniversary Tour” November 1. Click to Read The Full Story …

American Superstars Show at the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower to Host Limited Engagement Celine Dion Tribute – The American Superstars show at the Stratosphere Casino Hotel and Tower (Tickets) will add Elisa Furr as Celine Dion for a special limited engagement through October 27, 2008, announced American Casino & Entertainment Properties officials. ôOur Christina Aguilera tribute artist is taking a break, and we needed a high caliber replacement. Celine Dion is a musical icon with a voice like no other, the adoration of fans worldwide, and a recent record run here in Vegas. We are pleased to welcome the talented Elisa Furr and her amazing tribute to Celine Dion,ö said Mark Callas, who produces American Superstars with his Springtime Productions partner, Donny Moore. Click to Read The Full Story …

Minus 5 Experience Opens First Permanent Ice Lounge in the United States – The first permanent ice lounge in the United States has opened at Mandalay Place, adjacent to Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The 2,000 sq. ft. Minus 5 Experience welcomed its very first patrons with an “Elvis sighting,” an unveiling of a life-sized ice Elvis, complete with signature pompadour, glasses, side-burns, and guitar. On a day when the temperature topped 90 degrees in Las Vegas, the inside of the newly opened Minus 5 ice lounge pushed the mercury to a frigid 23 degrees Fahrenheit, or, true to its name “minus 5” Celsius. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Limit and Pot Limit Omaha High – with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the seventh of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Limit and Pot Limit Omaha High (broadband)


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

What happened to coffee pots in the rooms? We just visited Vegas within the last two weeks and were surprised to find the was no coffee in our room (unless of course we wanted to order through room service). My wife does not do well without her coffee the first shot out of the cannon. Then we find we can get coffee at the restaurants at the casinos ($3.00 a cup).

Where we were staying we knew we could get a complimentary cup as long as we were gambling, which is what we did. This brings up another story, it seems that where we were staying you could only get one drink at a time, and could not have two containers in front of you at one time. BOOZE i understand, BUT COFFEE?????????

Other than that had a fine time. this was our 9th trip in 12 years and we watch buildings, casinos and coffee go up toward the sky!!!!!!!

T. Dede

Ted Responds:

Excellent question. I remember some years ago (this goes way back) when The Rio removed coffee from the rooms because the health department dictated that the maids didn’t have the proper facilities to wash the coffee pot. Some hotels simply replace the pot with a clean one, others may have arranged to have them properlyácleaned by the maids.

Per getting it from a cocktail waitress, she might have been under the gun to follow ever-more-strict rules. You could try tipping her a little more and seeing if she can hustle for more. However… another option that maybe no one thinks about: There are a number of Walgreens/CVS type stores along The Strip. Stop in and BUY a $10 coffee maker and a $5 can of coffee. You now have coffee in your room for your entire stay, anytime of the day, for the price of what you’d otherwise probably spend on it in a single day. (This is a great tip for bottled water also).

As in-depth as we know Las Vegas, our one weakness may be that we actually do live here, so we rarely get a room. So I toss this out to the readers:

If you can think back to your most recent (or even past few) trips, where did you stay and did the room have a coffee pot in it? Email news editor Mark Jacobs at mark@accessvegas.com and he’ll compile a list!


I have read that you have to wait on line for an hour or more for the seafood buffet before being seated. I & my party of 4 arrive in Vegas on Oct. 26, & planned on going to this buffet for dinner on Wednesday, Oct. 29th. Does waits of an hour or more still apply.

Thank you!

Hap Fairman

Ted Responds:

Hap is already going to be in town by the time this comes out, but I did fire him the following note:

Wait lines depend on buffet, time of day, and day or week. If you really want to check out a certain buffet, go Sunday through Thursday and arrive within 30 minutes after the dinner buffet hours start or wait until about an hour before the buffet closes for the evening to avoid the longest lines.


Hi Ted,

I’ve been an avid reader of your e-letters since our first-ever trip to Las Vegas in May of 2007. We had such a fantastic time seeing all the glitz of downtown, the strip, with the entertainment, and the food, etc. We enjoyed it so much that we couldn’t wait to come back again for a second trip this September, 2008!

With your e-letters and a bit of research on my own.. I’ve learned that deals CAN be found… for hotels, entertainment, and dining… as long as you’re looking in the right places. You have to pre-plan you trip.. decide what you want to do.. how much you can afford to spend… for the length of your stay. Your e-letters helped me greatly with those plans… and I thank you.

I’m concerned with all the talks about on the downturns of Vegas. The economy has hurt many communities from coast to coast in the United States… and Las Vegas is not immune to those downturns. Just the reports on the housing market in the entire state of Nevada alone can make that point. With the cutbacks (in various areas) at some of the casino’s — how has that effected the Vegas visitors gambling experiences? Are the casino’s paying out at all these days?

We were lucky to win $800 on a 5 cents slot machine (at maximum bid … of course) at Sahara on the very first day of our May 2007 trip. We used that winning money towards our other gambling times during the entire week we stayed. In between our shows and sight seeing and dining… we like to gamble a little (it IS Vegas after all)… but we’re not liking the idea of throwing our money away on slots if the machines are hardly “loose” because of the Casino revenue issues. What’s your take on the subject?

Patrick Magee from Upstate New York

Ted Responds:

The downturn in the housing market here has nothing to do with tourism. Too many people moved here and wanted to live the Las Vegas lifestyle without a clue as to how they were going to pay for it. All their friends were getting houses and they wanted one. Add to that the (unfortunate) number of people who bought vacation homes thinking it was a good investment plus the downturn in residential home building, and you had a recipe for disaster.

The condo situation didn’t help. For the most part, only a moron would think that a numerous high-rise condos would work in a city where you can get a 3000 square foot house with a yard and a pool for the price of a 1000 square foot condo. Even Trump Tower here seems to be selling poorly.

The general consensus is that the casinos have tightened slots and table game rules to the point that it is driving away gamblers. People are choosing to see a couple of shows and have some fine dining experiences instead of the disappointment that quick gambling losses seem to bring.

You’ll be able to tell friends and family about seeing Phantom or Mamma Mia for years to come. Similar with what a great meal you had at a celebrity chef or other amazing restaurant. A much better investment then dropping the same amount of cash in a short time at the casino.

We usually get plenty of reader feedback about any problems or changes from previous visits and we haven’t heard much about levels of customer service yet (which means it may not be a problem). If we start hearing about it, we’ll report is as always. The letters that end up here represent what many of our readers are saying!


At your urging, we ventured downtown for the first time. We had this image of seedy, dingy and unsafe. Wow, were we wrong. The atmosphere was delightfully upbeat, day and night, and we never felt unsafe.

We frequented several casinos, restaurants and attractions. Next trip we will skip the Strip altogether! I’ve passed your website onto many people who wonder how we get such great deals. Love the newsletter. Thank you so much.

Tina from New York


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

  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!
  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

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:

  • 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
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21
  • Canada Day, Canada July 1
  • Independence Day July 4
  • Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
  • Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
  • Jewish New Year September 19

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.

New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

October 22, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 18, 2008

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.


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Featured Shows
Photos and Wallpaper

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

Hello From Las Vegas! We are revamping our newsletter site https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com into a blog-style format. We’ve been doing this newsletter (which pretty much amounts to a weekly blog) since 1999, long before the word blog or blog-style websites existed. For those of you who read this newsletter online, bear with us. The current blog format is very readable, but can (and will) be inproved over the next few weeks to match the look, style and readability of our online version.

This also allows users of RSS/XML feeds two options for following everything here at AccessVegas.com:

  • Only This Newsletter: https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/feed/
  • Everything new on AccessVegas.com (show reviews, photos, new stories and features) as it happens:
    http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

An “Only In Nevada” Type of Gas Card Promotion – According to the Review-Journal, A brother in Beatty, NV (about 130 miles north of Las Vegas) is offering gas cards ranging from $50 to $100 depending on how much you spend. Although the long-standing myth is that prositiution is legal in Las Vegas, the reality is that it is not legal in any county of over 400,000 residents. This includes Clark County (Las Vegas) despite all of the “dancers” to your room handbills.

Since Clark County is roughly the size of New Jersey and Las Vegas is centrally located in the county, this means quite a drive for those who want to indulge in the “world’s oldest profession”.

My suggestion if you are going to drive a couple of hours from Las Vegas? Take in Dante’s View which overlooks much of Death Valley. (Just don’t do it in the summer). Google Maps Street view has a great 360 degree shot of Dante’s View.

Open Your Wallet For Nevada Education – Once upon a time (prior to 2000), families didn’t move to Las Vegas in droves. Families living here didn’t expect Nevada to rank high nationally when it came to education. In fact, I recal numerous business news stories in the 90’s noting the difficulty of recruiting family men to work here in Las Vegas.

Most people were employed in gaming (or tourism-related jobs) and gaming taxes did a fine job of helping fund education.

Oh… how times have changed. Over a million people (including many families) have flocked to live here since then and now expect our education system to be as good as it was in the high-tax states they fled from. And… they want to do it on your backs. Right out of the pocketbook of our visitors. Read more: Nevadans say let tourists pay – Support strong for raising hotel room tax from 10 percent to 13 percent

Las Vegas unelmployment rate is above the national average. I wouldn’t suggest moving here unless you have a job waiting for you. Ironically enough, it is the construction downturn playing a big roll. Fewer people moving here means less new home, condo, and apartment construction. Not trying to sound negative. This is a great place to visit, and a pretty cool place to live. If you have a job.

Jay Leno’s Las Vegas shows next week will benefit Iowa flood victims. Emmy Award-winning comedian and television host Jay Leno will perform two special engagements at The Mirage Wednesday, June 25 and Friday, June 27 at 10 p.m. with proceeds going to The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Tickets are priced at $90 plus tax and are available at The Mirage box office or call (702) 792-7777.

My dad was born in Iowa where the family ran a service station in Dubuque before relocating to Santa Monica, CA in his youth so I have some ties to the state. It is absolutely heartbreaking to see the flooding and our hearts and prayers go out to all affected.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

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


Can’t Make It To Vegas?
Get Tickets To An Event Near You!

Madonna, American Idols Live, Elton John, Jonas Brothers, Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett, Dave Matthews Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Kenny Chesney, ColdPlay, James Taylor, Iron Maiden, Rascal Flatts, The Cure, Rush, NASCAR, Baseball, NFL Football, College Football, All Major Concerts and Events


Featured Review:
Experience The Spice Of Life at “V The Ultimate Variety Show”

by Erin Guernsey

The old saying “variety is the spice of life” rings true at “V The Ultimate Variety Show.” Audience members are privy to witness an assortment of talented artists as they perform individualized specialty acts at the V Theatre inside the Miracle Mile Shops at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

The show opens with the flamboyantly-funny host. This man strings together the various specialty acts with his amusing sense of humor. As the show progresses the audience learns that he is more than just a host. He is an accomplished performer who possesses excellent juggling skills. His skills range from juggling batons in the air, to hats on his head and even ping-pong balls in his mouth.

Click to Read Entire V Variety Show Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…


Featured Review:
Crazy Girls Keeps It Simple, Yet Sensual and Captivating

by Guy Chapman

For over twenty years now, “Crazy Girls” has just been one of those Las Vegas mainstays. From its iconic bronze statue in front of the Riviera that tourists rub for good luck, to the ads that one can’t help but see when traveling The Strip, it’s easy to see why, once stepping into the fun-filled and sexy world of “Crazy Girls”.

The closest comparison to defining “Crazy Girls” is similar to what people would expect a classic “Golden Age” Las Vegas show to be. The girls perform a variety of acts that are playful and cheeky to sensual and alluring, set to music from the classic burlesque age to more modern songs. “Crazy Girls” keeps it simple, yet captivating, and for regular show-goers on The Strip, it makes for an experience that isn’t going to be found just anywhere else.

Click to Read Entire Crazy Girls Las Vegas Review (with additional picures)…


Celebrate The 4th Of July With Vertical Horizon And Mix 94.1 At Mandalay Bay Beach – Evening Highlighted By A Fireworks Extravaganza – Celebrate the 4th of July at Mandalay Bay Beach with Vertical Horizon and MIX 94.1-FM. A pre-concert barbeque at Border Grill will begin at 6 p.m.; the concert is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. and will be followed by a fireworks show at 10:30 p.m. The barbeque at Border Grill will be available for an additional charge and will include great food, drink specials and prize giveaways. The show will be presented by MIX 94.1-FM and Mandalay Bay and the tickets are priced at $35, not including applicable taxes and service charges. Click to Read The Full Story …

New Female Lead Singer, Felice Garcia, Takes The Stage In The Folies Bergere At The Tropicana – Felice Garcia joins the cast of the legendary Folies Bergere (Tickets) as the new principal female singer at the Tropicana Resort & Casino. Felice is very familiar with the stage, performing since the young age of nine in talent shows, musicals, plays, pageants, civic events and other miscellaneous functions. This is her first big production show and is very excited to become part of the Folies Bergere family. “It was my dream as a child to be part of a well-known stage production like the Folies Bergere,” says Felice. “What better place to get my start in show business than in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Toby Keith Brings His “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008” To Mandalay Bay Saturday, July 26 With Special Guest Montgomery Gentry – Tour also will Feature 2008’s Hottest New Country Talent Including Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir. Toby Keith, a multi-platinum country music superstar, will bring his “Biggest & Baddest Tour 2008” sponsored by Ford F-Series, to the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, July 26. (Tickets) Academy of Country Music award-winner Montgomery Gentry, as well as Carter’s Chord, Mica Roberts and Trailer Choir, will open the show at 8 p.m. Click to Read The Full Story …

First Lucky Winner At Sahara Hotel & Casino Wins Instant Upgrade To “Elvis” Penthouse Suite – Thomas Bagshaw was selected as the first winner of the Sahara Hotel & Casino’s Instant Upgrade promotion. Mr. Bagshaw, who had booked a standard room, was informed at check-in that he had been upgraded to the fabulous Presidential Suite, formerly inhabited by Elvis Presley during the filming of the classic film, “Viva Las Vegas.” Mr. Bagshaw hails from Gact, California. During the months of May through August, the legendary Sahara is offering the opportunity for hotel guests to win an instant upgrade to one of the Sahara’s most requested and famous classic penthouse suites – The Beatles Suite, where the Fab Four stayed in 1964 or The Presidential Suite, which has hosted such luminaries as The King himself, Elvis Presley. Click to Read The Full Story …

Pop Music Icon Janet Jackson To Bring Her “Rock Witchu Tour” To Mandalay Bay Friday, September 19 – Pop music icon Janet Jackson returns to the touring circuit for the first time in seven years when she kicks off her “Rock Witchu Tour” September 10 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour will land at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Friday, Sept. 19 and the concert is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. (Tickets) The tour will feature the hit songs and innovative dance routines that have made Jackson one of the most celebrated artists in history. She has undeniably influenced pop culture with more than 100 million albums sold as well as countless hit singles, awards and accolades. Click to Read The Full Story …

Fun in the Sun, Las Vegas Style – The heat of summer is here, and many hotel pools are sure bet for a cool escape. Dip into these latest ways to make a splash in Las Vegas:

    À

  • MGM Grand unveils WET REPUBLIC, an alluring 53,000-square-foot ultra pool combining an exclusive nightlife vibe with poolside pampering and relaxation. An adults-only mecca for discerning partygoers, the glitterati and celebrities, WET REPUBLIC features distinct experiences within a series of intimate spaces and will redefine poolside entertainment as the first ultra pool in the world’s sexiest city. Elite VIP service, high-end amenities and renowned entertainers will be the standard at WET REPUBLIC.
  • Already a crowd favorite, Mandalay Bay Beach at Mandalay Bay now features the only climate-controlled poolside gaming on The Strip. Nearby, Moorea Beach Club continues to draw sunseekers by providing high-energy music in a luxurious setting.

  • A paradise fit for royalty, the Excalibur pool has doubled its size – adding two luxurious pools and 17 cabanas stocked with all the essentials to keep cool. Just steps away, Drenched offers the latest in causal poolside dining.
  • In just a year, Bare at The Mirage has made a big splash. The adult pool, known best for its European-style sun bathing and exclusive VIP service, has quickly become a must visit for celebrities ranging from Fergie to Leonardo DiCaprio. New for 2008, Bare features a delectable menu by California Pizza Kitchen.

“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” And Netflix Join Forces To Find Contestants In Las Vegas – Channel 13 Welcomes “Millionaire” Producers for Contestant Auditions Wednesday, June 25 at Cannery Casino & Hotel in North Las Vegas, NV. “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” hosted by Emmy Award-winning host Meredith Vieira, and Netflix, the company that makes movie enjoyment easy, will join forces on Wednesday, June 25 in the Las Vegas, Nevada area to find contestants for the fourth installment of “Netflix Million Dollar Movie Week,” a specialty show which will feature movie-themed questions. Auditioners will also be given the opportunity to try out for a regular episode of the hit game show’s upcoming seventh season. Click to Read The Full Story …


Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

4 Queens from $36, Bally’s from $69, Flamingo from $59, Gold Coast from $34, Planet H. from $89, Rio Suites from $60, Sahara from $36, Strat. from $35, Tropicana from $45, Tuscany from $48, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!


Members Mania – We Love Our Readers!

HI Ted,

I recently visited Vegas for 4 days and enjoyed it BUT the tables and slots are getting very, very difficult to win at. It is once in a blue moon that you win anything. I thoroughly enjoy Vegas and always have. I have probably made at least 15-20 trips there. Due to the “tightness” I’ll probably look elsewhere from here on in. 

The last few trips I keep telling myself that things will get better but they actually got worse. I’ll miss everything else about Vegas but when I gamble I need to win every once in awhile.

Thanks for the newsletter I enjoy that as well.

Christopher Kujawa

Ted Responds:

You aren’t the only one. Gaming win keep dropping despite pretty steady visitorship. Those with no clue blame it on the economy here in the U.S. but the rest of us know better:

Table game rules are worse and slots seem tighter. You used to be able to put $20 in a machine and know you’d get some decent play. Now you might as well set the $20 bill on fire. Why even bother? Your money is better spent at a top-end show, one of the many area tours (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam… even a Mob Tour), or blowing it on a fine meal. At least you are getting some bang-for-your-buck.

Side Note: If gambling, do it downtown. The table game rules tend to be more favorible to the player and the slots seem to be looser (from the many reports that we get). Plus, they are much more thankful for your patronage.

Thanks for the input and thanks for reading. Please do tell your Vegas visiting friends about the newsletter!


My husband and I jst returned from Vegas. We had the the best time at the Cher concert. What a lovely lady she is and her show was worth the trip. I love Vegas! Keep up the good job you do on your newsletter. I read it everytime.

Thank You,

Kay


We are looking to get married in our fave place Vegas in may of 2009. We wanted to do it at The Nugget downtown as it has a large special meaning to us. No Elvis or married by Martians. Just a simple ceremony with a few close friends. Any do’s, dont’s or any other thoughts?

We both went through the big Circus wedding and now after finding each other (the mate we dreamed of) we just want something simple and nice. Any thoughts would be helpful!

Tim and Mary

Ted Responds:

Tim and Mary,

Contrats and a couple of thoughts:

I don’t believe that the GN has a wedding chapel. However, an overlooked way of doing a wedding is to rent one of the nicest suites (the kind with more than one room, a great view and similar) and have the wedding there. one can do this regardless of hotel.

The downside is having to do a little bit of legwork to arrange the minister, cake, and similar but a web search can go a long way there.

Also, much can probably be catered by the hotel. You may wish to call the hotel, tell them your thoughts, and ask what they can do (and the cost).

If you even want to keep things more simple, ask about the possibility of doing the ceremony by the pool, in a lounge (before it is open for the evening) or even on the casino floor. I know of a popular Los Angeles TV personality who got married at the craps tables at Caesars a couple of years ago!

If you want a bunch of random well-wishers, you can even get married on Fremont Street in front of the hotel.

Bottom Line: Provided you are staying at said hotel, call ahead and tell them you want to get married at the hotel and make it clear you want to talk to someone who handles group events at the hotel (or at least someone in catering). That person is best suited to work with 

Hope this helps and please let us know your progress!


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

  • Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.
  • Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com – We read them all!

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:

  • 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
  • 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
  • Cinco de Mayo May 5
  • Mother’s Day May 10
  • Father’s Day June 21

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.

New to the list? See our Newsletter Archives for back issues and subscription info. Don’t hesitate to forward this newsletter to friends and associates.

All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

June 18, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 8, 2006

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Need to contact us? Send feedback to AllVegasTV@aol.com.
Share the info: Click to Email this newsletter to a friend! Missed an issue? Click to Read Back Issues Online. This newsletter is free!


In This Issue: Special Report: Las Vegas On A Spring Break Budget plus Tons of Exclusive Las Vegas Travel Tips ….

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 (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas Hotels, Shows, Nightlife, Tours and Golf. We live here. We know Las Vegas!

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.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Las Vegas Essentials
Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos
Free Online Games!

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

Hello From Las Vegas! This is a special edition of the newsletter. I was recently asked to contribute to an article about doing Las Vegas Spring Break on a budget. My spring break years are behind me, but you are much more likely to find me still out hitting the most fun drinks and places that don’t cost a fortune and I’m never far from a party!

Special Notes: While this article is aimed at the Las Vegas spring break crowd, it has tons of information that will help any budget traveler or those just trying to spend wisely when in Las Vegas. This contains helpful information that every visitor should read!

Newsletter Archives: This long-form article we publish this week is not our regular newsletter format. Week after week, we bring you tons of information on hot Vegas happenings! If you are new to the newsletter, please also enjoy our recent newsletter archives so you can come to town informed.

Latest Insider Vibe Broadcast/Podcast Is “On The Air” – The latest edition of our new broadcast/podcast is available now! I keep you updated on the latest news, events, and exclusive commentary so you can have the true scoop on what is happening in Las Vegas.

You can listen online right now at your computer (streaming audio). Choose your connection to listen now: Dial-Up or Broadband.

Podcast users: Download and listen anytime. Click over to Radio.AccessVegas.com and download now.

iTunes Users: Go to the Podcast section of iTunes and do a search for Insider Vibe.

RSS Feed Users: Instructions available at Radio.AccessVegas.com. Subscribe and don’t miss an broadcast.

Enjoy This Issue!



Las Vegas For The Spring Breaker On A Budget

General Advice – Las Vegas is very, very strict about 21 and over. No clubs are 18 to enter, 21 to drink. Casinos and clubs/bars have seen ID from every state and nation in the world. A nice smile and that half-assed fake ID isn’t going to work.

There are still things to do and see in Las Vegas for those under 21, and obviously your older friends may be insuring that the entire groups has liquor available (in the room). But to do “The Vegas” that you see on TV (bars, gambling, hanging out in casino areas), you really need to be 21. Oh … and you need to be 21 to book a room.

Gambling: What is your advice for those would like to gamble on a limited budget? – You are coming to Las Vegas. You are going to gamble. 1. Divide up your gambling budget by day. If you are bringing $200 to gamble with on a 4 day trip, you’ll be miserable if you blow it all the first day. 2. Don’t play games you don’t understand (except for some of the basic slots where you simply push a button over and over).

Blackjack and craps have a very low house edge (win percentage for the casino) if you know what you are doing. If you don’t, you might as well just hand them your money and walk away. If you plan to play table games or video poker (a skill based game), buy one of those basic “how to gamble” books in a bookstore and a cheap Vegas games software program (bargain section of any department or computer store). Practice on your computer until you get the feel of it.

Specific Games? – Don’t play roulette or the big money wheel. Both look fun and easy … and they should. They are cash cows for the house.

Don’t expect to win, but when you do, it is OK to quit! It is not just a pile of chips or credits, it is your money. If you get ahead on a good run and then the machine or table takes back 1/3 of what you have won, walk. Go have a drink, get something to eat, take a walk and people watch. If really late, go to bed (Vegas will be there when you get up). All of those options are cheaper than losing all your money back to the casino right away.

Once again, money won is your money. They don’t feel bad about taking your money when they win. You should feel great about taking their money and being able to tell your friends “I got on a good roll and left $40 (or $400) up!” You can’t brag about giving it all back.

Ways to spend a good deal of time and have a good time with a small bank roll? – The Las Vegas Strip is about five miles long and by itself is one of the most incredible experiences on the face of the earth. Just spend some time walking through as many casinos as possible (which will take hours and hours … and is fun)! One of the main, huge mistakes first time visitors make is acting like they are chained to their hotel or their little part of The Strip or downtown. Get out and explore!

Double Decker buses run up and down The Strip (and all the way to downtown Fremont Street Experience) every few minutes, 24/7 and an all-day pass is $5.00. So no reason to limit yourself. If you walked way too far down The Strip, just hop a bus back!

Any suggestions for finding low priced cocktails? – Boozing is important in Las Vegas … part of the experience! It can be expensive if you buy drinks at most hotel bars. You can have an open container anywhere on the Las Vegas Strip or Fremont Street Experience (where all the hotels are downtown).

My four tips for boozing:

1. Stock up at a convenience store and/or liquor store. Much, much, much cheaper than buying drinks out and about. However, you’ll often find yourself nowhere near your hotel room. So …

2. There are convenience and sundry stores both downtown and every few blocks along The Strip. Virtually all have huge beverage sections with a wide variety of ice cold booze. The prices are a little jacked up (think $3.00 for a 24 once ” tall boy” beer that will cost you $1.29 at the grocery store), but 24 ounces of beer is going to cost you $7-12 at the hotel bar.

It is 100% allowed to walk right into a casino with beer you bought at the store somewhere (or bought at another hotel). Not a problem. Even if it is a 24 once beer. They might have a problem with a 40 just because it is a big piece of glass. But 24 once can of Bud, Fosters or similar … not a problem.

3. Only buy your drinks at a hotel bar as a last resort. Except for a couple of exceptions (which I’ll get to in a minute), drinks at hotel bars are expensive. Usually $5.00 and up. Way up. If you are in a hotel and need booze, instead go to the gift/sundry shop in the hotel. Most sell cold beer, wine, Mikes (and similar), and hard liquor.

4. Even though spring break features moderate temperatures here (generally in the 70’s or low 80’s*), we have a dry climate. Combine that with booze and you get dehydrated quickly without realizing it. Which compounds your hangover and general energy level. Have a few bottled of water throughout the day and night in between the cocktails or you’ll hate life the next day.

* The weather is rarely “average” here. Look up the 10 day forecast online the day before you come so you can pack properly.

Food: Are there any cheap buffets left in Vegas? – Few and far between. Cheap now means $10 for dinner. When you are walking through the other hotels close to yours, scout out the buffet entrance. A sign with prices will be posted.

A buffet is much more preferable than the coffee shop. Even if there is a line to get into the buffet, once you are in you chow right away. And on decent to very good food. Except for the celeb restaurants, hotel kitchens usually service the buffet, coffee shop, and room service. So the food is all the same decent stuff.

Does someone always have to sacrifice quality for low cost? – Quality is a relative term. Not much in Las Vegas is really, really lousy. And some of the really high end stuff is over-priced. So when it comes to Las Vegas, no. Provided that you don’t go overboard gambling, you are going to have a great time for the money!

Where are the deals and how do you find them? – Las Vegas rooms are booked and sold a little differently than in other places simply because of the sheer number of rooms (130,000) that need to be sold each night. So just hitting one or two major travel sites isn’t going to find you the best deal. We keep a list of some of the current Las Vegas Discounts on and here is the real secret to that page:

Scroll down past the current discounts and you will see our exclusive information on how Vegas rooms are sold as well as multiple links to booking sites you should check and compare, including some of the bigger Vegas room companies that move large numbers of rooms a year here, but aren’t a national travel site brand name. Sometimes the best deals are Vegas specific companies!

Drink: If you’re a low roller, will you actually get free drinks? – Yes … if you are gambling. Here is the Catch-22: If you are sitting and playing a machine (and I mean actually playing it, not simply keeping the chair warm and hitting the play button once every 10 minutes), you will get a free drink from the cocktail waitress. Even if you are playing a penny or nickel machine. You are expected to tip the waitress $1 per drink when she returns with your free drink. Tip her more, you might see her more. Stiff her and it might be a while.

This is especially true if you are playing penny or nickel machines, as these players usually are the worst tippers and yet the most demanding with their drinks. (Vegas is going high-end for a reason: People buying $500 a night suites get what they pay for, and don’t bitch). So you already have one strike against you. Also, you can ask for whatever drink you want, but they won’t be pouring you the good stuff in the nickel area unless you are tipping big time.

Waitresses tip out their bartender at the end of the shift and they have all the control in the world. They can say “vodka and cranberry” or they can say “Grey Goose and cranberry.” And … they can say “I need a good rum and coke.”

Vegas is about cash, even with budget travel. If you are tipping the waitress well, the bartender gets more from the waitress at the end of the night. So the bartender works with the waitress to make sure the best tippers are getting the best drinks (within reason).

Couple of things: You can’t order two drinks at one time for one person. Don’t even try. Also, be nice to the waitress. You can be tipping her well and if you are a jerk, it won’t mean a thing.

Having said all of that, losing $20 (or a lot more) at a machine just turned your drink into a $20 drink. Plus tip.

How Free Is That Drink? Think about it: You sit down and start playing. Unless you start winning right away, you are losing money. Plus, you might not see a waitress for 10-20 minutes. Then she comes and it will be another 10-20 minutes before she gets back with your drink. Remember, she has a large area of the floor to cover, has to get orders from everyone, has to wait while her drinks are made, then has to deliver to everyone.

If you are winning or even breaking even, that is fine. But if you are losing, that gets expensive. Let’s say you start winning and you are up when you order. You are conveniently (for the casino) stuck playing until your drinks arrive. Giving the machine or table plenty of time to take back all of your money. And then some.

My advice? Buy your booze at a convenience or sundry store (whether on the street or the one in the hotel), then go sit down and play. If you are winning, you can enjoy that drink while you order up a new one from the waitress.

It is fine to order another before you finish your first one (even if it is a tall boy you bought at the store). But you can’t order two drinks per person from the waitress. And at table games, you are often allowed to have only one drink on hand. So when you see her coming, finish your first drink.

Hotels: Is it always best to book in advance from a travel website? – Las Vegas sells hotel rooms the way airlines sell plane tickets. The further ahead you book, the better the price you are going to get, within reason. Some hotels don’t release rooms for normal dates (except big events like New Years, NASCAR, big conventions) more than six months ahead. When possible, target 3-6 months out, but even 2-3 week ahead of time beats booking the week you want to visit under most all circumstances.

Can you haggle for room prices or free upgrades? – No and Yes. The prices are all computerized. Heavy gamblers and high rollers get cheap or free rooms. The rest of us simply pay the price listed.

But … there is the “$20 Trick” for room upgrades. Many Las Vegas hotels charge a premium for a Strip view or similar upgrade. Front desk staff have some latitude on upgrading guests. Place a folded up $20 bill on the counter partially under your ID and/or credit card so that the denomination is visible. As you slide them across when asked for your credit card, ask if a room with good view or something slightly nicer is available.

If they can’t accommodate you or insist on an extra charge you can simply retract the bill. If they accommodate you, this is a small price to pay!

AccessVegas.com has these and many other helpful tips at our Las Vegas Frequently Asked Questions page.

What hotels are the best bargains? – The cheapest hotels are flea-bag motels blocks away from the action downtown. And guess what … they aren’t always going to be cheaper than some of the more inexpensive hotel casinos. Remember, the casinos are thinking you’ll lose a few bucks so they try to keep the rates reasonable.

What is more important is what hotels are good for Spring Breakers and in general for 20-somethings on a budget!

1. The Plaza downtown always goes after the Spring Break crowd. Rooms are usually very moderately priced, and downtown Las Vegas is the best place to do Las Vegas on a budget. Hotels are older (anything over 15 years old is “old” by Vegas standards), but in good shape.

Anywhere on the Fremont Street Experience downtown will usually be cheaper than The Strip. You get much more of a party atmosphere (not quite Mardi Gras, but close sometimes) because all these hotels are on the same few blocks. Drinks are cheaper. $5.00 you can buy 24 hour bus pass to get you to The Strip (about 4 miles away … and don’t walk it … your time is valuable in Las Vegas … much more valuable than saving $5.00). Plus remember, the bus runs 24/7. See Fremont Street Las Vegas Photos

2. The Stratosphere is at the top of The Strip and tends to go after the Spring Break crowd with moderate hotel rates. The hotel is only a few years old, so it is nice for the money. And the tower is cool! 1000 feet above The Strip. (You don’t stay in the tower, but as a guest you get to go up to at discount). Plus, cool rides at the top of the Tower.

3. Imperial Palace is in the heart of The Strip, a fun party place, and right next door to Harrah’s Carnival Court (best outdoor party spot with live music all afternoon and night). Moderate rates, absolute best location on The Strip. Reference our Las Vegas Strip Map.

4. New Frontier has the best location … across from Wynn Las Vegas and in the heart of The Strip. Gilley’s in in the hotel with bikini bull riding, female mud wrestling, and similar. Place to party even if you aren’t country although I wouldn’t walk in dressed all hip-hop. It caters to a more middle-of-the-road and country crowd.

Honorable mention strictly based on price and being on The Strip: Sahara and Circus Circus. Probably won’t be party central, but will keep you closer to the Strip action than staying downtown.

Hotels to avoid for the budget Spring Break traveler:

1. The Palms. Yes … it is as cool as it looks on TV. And as expensive as it looks on TV. The women the ones Kanye West talks about in Gold Digger (with looks and fake body parts to match) and you guys have to compete with a bunch of rich Californian’s. Plus, it is too far from The Strip to really walk.

2. Hard Rock. See above, except that the guys are a bunch of “Vinnie’s” from Philly and the Hard Rock is almost two miles from The Strip.

3. Hooters. Unless you want to be hanging around 90% guys (most of whom are over 40). Yes, the Hooters girls are cute. But the cocktail waitresses at places you’ll want to visit like The Venetian and Mandalay Bay are much smoking hotter. And ladies … do you really want to stay at Hooters with all those cute girls in shorts running around? Stay somewhere the attention will be on you!

Please … no hate mail if you are a wealthy Californian, a “Vinnie” from the east coast, or a female hottie with a good plastic surgeon. If you can afford to stay at the trendy places, that rocks! And hotties … we are looking for calendar girls. But this article is for budget minded travelers, specifically spring breakers.

Attractions: What are the best ways to enjoy free entertainment? How about low prices/discounts? – In your hotel room will be a magazine (or two … or three) with plenty of ads for attractions, many with coupons. That is a good place to start. But don’t fall into the coupon trap! The “coupon trap” is where you spend two hours of your time going out of your way to do something just to save $5.00. Remember … your time is valuable!

You are paying all that airfare and hotel costs to be in Las Vegas, and you only have so many hours. If you spot a coupon for something you really want to do, that is great. But the quickest way to piss off your group is to drag them somewhere for something marginal just because you saw a coupon for it.

And think about it: The stuff really worth doing and seeing sells out ahead of time. If there is something you really want to do like seeing a certain show or getting a limo, book online ahead of time.

Anything that simply must be included in a Vegas trip regardless of cost? – Outside of a Cirque show, dinner at a celeb chef restaurant, or something high-end like that (which may not be something everyone appreciates anyway), here are a couple of things you should try to scrape up the money to do:

1. Get a limo. Either from the airport to your hotel, or just to ride up and down The Strip in for an hour or two. If you get it for two hours, have them take you over to Palms, go in for a lap around the hotel and a quick, expensive drink at the bar, and then say in front of all the gold digger women (or cute but snobby rich guys) … “We gotta go! The limo was supposed to be waiting for us out front 10 minutes ago!” Do remember that you are paying for the limo by the hour, so don’t start wasting time at the hotel you are visiting. Have them get back to cruising you up and down the entire Strip where the real party is!

Limos only seem expensive until you realize that you are splitting the cost with your friends. But due to availability and the problem with getting everyone on the same page after you have arrived, you should book one online in advance of your trip. We have some of the best limo rates and packages: Las Vegas Limos

2. Take a helicopter tour of The Strip at night. Cost is about $85 which includes transportation to and from your hotel and is money well spent. Don’t go with a company located on middle of The Strip. You aren’t doing this to go around the block. We suggest Maverick Helicopter Tours. You fly from the very bottom of The Strip (starting well past Mandalay Bay and the Welcome To Vegas sign, which you will see on your way to their private terminal) all the way up The Strip, past the Stratosphere Tower, all the way downtown to see the Fremont Street Experience from the air, and then all the way back again.

Maverick Helicopter Tours can be reached at 800-571-6037 or online at Maverick Helicopter Tours. They are the company that many hotel concierges recommend to their clients. Maverick has a perfect safety record, and some of the most comfortable and modern aircraft. This is a memory of a lifetime.

Things you should do even though they are cheap or free?

1. The Bellagio Fountains play every 15 minutes after dark until midnight. Must be seen, and the price is right: Free. View Fountains of Bellagio Photos

2. Sirens of TI (Treasure Island) pirate show. Hot lady pirates battle buff guy pirates in this over-the-top spectacle which features stunts and plenty of pyro. Times vary depending on season, so call over to Treasure Island when you arrive to see when show times are. Insider tip: Get out there in front of the hotel 30 minutes before the show, or most of what you see will be the back of someone’s head in front of you. See Sirens of TI Photos and special bonus: Sirens of TI Computer Wallpaper

3. Stratosphere Tower (if not staying there). $10.00 to get up, but pay the $30 for unlimited rides on top of the tower if you are a thrill seeker. Rides that hang you over the edge or shoot you high above the top of the 1000+ foot tower and you’ll want to go more than once.

If not a thrill seeker, the $10 is well worth the incredible view. Try to time your arrival for about an hour before sunset and watch The Strip light up. Great way to relax for a short while (drinks are available in the lounge) and watch Las Vegas come alive. You will get chills just seeing it happen. See Stratosphere Hotel and Tower Photos

Where To Party An Night – Stay out of the clubs. Sure, they look great on The Travel Channel and MTV. But you will wait in line for hours, pay $20-30 to get in, pay $10 for a beer, and it will be so noisy you can’t meet anybody (which is why you went on spring break, right)?. The clubs are full of rich guys buying $500 bottles of liquor in hopes of attracting the hot women (who are usually locals getting in for free to create atmosphere, but aren’t planning on going home with anyone). Once again, unless you guys want to compete with really wealthy guys for the girls, skip it, Ladies … unless you want to compete with a bunch of women are are an 11 on the 1-10 scale and spent more on body enhancements than your tuition costs this year, stay away.

But then where to party? Right in the dead center of The Strip is the best party scene around, and it is very budget conscious. Start off at Casino Royale (between Harrah’s and The Venetian) where they have $1.00 bottles of beers (brand varies), $1.00 margaritas, reasonably priced shots and mixed drinks (think $4-6 instead of the $7-10 at other hotels), cheap table limits, and a great party atmosphere. Get your buzz on there, at these prices.

Head next door to Harrah’s and catch a little bit of the dueling piano show. Hilarious and fun … and free. But keep moving along .. remember … this is Vegas, baby! Always more to do and see and you can always come back to something that looks good. Walk out (south) towards Imperial Palace, passing Carnival Court on your left. Great party atmosphere later at night, flair bartenders, live bands … just one of the best places to party. But don’t go in there yet.

Just past the Imperial Palace is O’Sheas. Inexpensive and strong drinks, decent table limits, a fun Irish theme … just a great place to party and meet people. In fact, Casino Royale and O’Sheas are famous as fun, bargain places for college and 20-somethings all year long. Always happening on any evening and well into the night.

Just past O’Sheas is Margaritaville. Now … this is no budget place. Drinks are not cheap. But a great atmosphere and there will probably be someone in your party who wants to check it out. Take a swing through it. Head up to the very top floor for a great laid-back view of The Strip, and maybe even get a drink if you need to kick back or chill out for a few minutes. The drink won’t be cheap, but you are paying for the view and vibe in a laid-back atmosphere. After 10:00 PM, a live band cranks up for a party vibe.

Now you’ve checked it all out and you can just work your way back, stopping where you are inspired to. Want to save on liquor costs? Between the Carnival Court and Imperial Palace is (drum roll please … you guessed it): A sundry store that sells cold beer and liquor! If you are losing that buzz from Casino Royale and don’t want to pay the drink prices at the dueling piano bar and/or Margaritaville, simply stop and and reload. Just don’t open the booze in the store! Even Vegas has pesky little laws like that. Or … head right back over to Casino Royale for a few more dollar beers and margaritas! Then off to Carnival Court!

Do the above over and over and over and over and over and over … you get the picture!

Tipping Your Bartender -á Just because beers and margaritas are $1.00 at Casino Royale and you are on a budget doesn’t mean that you should stiff the bartender. They are your friend. You are probably going to be in town for a few days. The better memory they have of you, the better your cocktails will be. I don’t care how tight you are with money: Tip $1 a drink at any bar ($5 is fine for a round that is bigger than five drinks). And the bartender might just pour a little extra liquor in your mixed drinks next time as his way of saying thanks.

Special Note About Strip Clubs – Guys, leave those to the old dudes who have hundreds of dollars to spend and no game (or are married). Here is why this is important: Strip clubs pay taxi and limo drivers $20-50 per person that they deliver to a strip club. These clubs are off the Vegas Strip, and think about it: If these places were the hot party spot, they wouldn’t have to bribe drivers to take you there.

When getting into a taxi anywhere (if you are a group of guys), the driver will try to get you to go to a strip club no matter where you are headed! Don’t! You’ll pay a cover charge, expensive drinks, and … you’ll be facing a pretty expensive cab ride to get back to your hotel on top of it!

Even if you have a couple hundred dollars burning a hole in your pocket to spend on women, you just take that to the Carnival Court at Harrah’s, or the bar at places like O’Sheas or Casino Royale, or even Shadow Bar at Caesars (not cheap, but nice … fun and happening bar). Spot a cute group of girls. Have a little conversation and if they aren’t dissing you … buy them a round for drinks.

Think about it: you will never go home with any of the strippers (and frankly … you may not want to … there is a reason they keep the lights so low in those places). But you may hit it off with one of the cool women that hang at the fun party bars and casinos!

Getting Advice From Cabbies -á Don’t do it. Las Vegas has almost 2 million people. The suburbs stretch as far as the eye can see. Only a small handful of us actually hit The Strip like a tourist on a regular basis. (Hey … it’s tough work, but somebody has to do it). Virtually everyone who works on The Strip (hotel workers, taxi drivers, etc.) gets the hell out at the end of their shift. They put in their 8-12 hours and want to go home, not keep mingling with tourists. Asking a taxi driver about anything you want to do or see is like asking Donald Trump what it is like to drive a Hyundai. They have no clue. They will tell you anything just to seem helpful and get a bigger tip.

Bottom Line: Las Vegas is a great place for Spring Break. Enjoy your stay! Oh … and the minute you get back home, start making plans for Las Vegas New Year’s Eve!

——————–

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Special thanks to writer Raymond E. Dean of Missouri State University for submitting many of the questions used in this article.


Nothing Like A Hummer In Vegas! – Girls Go Wild and Boys Go Crazy! That’s what happens in H2 Hummers in Las Vegas on The Strip. Click To Cruise The Vegas Strip Like You Own It!

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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:

  • March Madness (NCAA College Basketball Playoffs) March 16-19, March 23-26, and April 1-3
  • Mother’s Day May 12-14
  • Memorial Day May 26-29 (3 day weekend)
  • Father’s Day June 16-18
  • Independence Day June 30 – July 4 (4 day weekend)
  • Labor Day September 1-4 (3 day weekend)
  • Grandparents Day September 8-10
  • Columbus Day October 6-9 (3 day weekend)
  • Halloween October 31
  • Veterans Day November 10-12 (3 day weekend – Friday off)
  • Thanksgiving November 23-26 (4 day weekend)
  • Christmas December 22-25 (3 day weekend – Christmas on Monday)
  • New Year’s Eve/Day December 29 – January 1 (3 day weekend – New Years on Monday)

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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!

For comprehensive regular updates of Las Vegas news concerning visitors, events, entertainment, hotels, gambling, real estate, and tourism, please visit our Las Vegas News Update Site and enter your email address there to subscribe and stay informed!

Vegas Comments and Questions? Post to our message boards and get great advice from people who have been here and done it. And don’t forget our comprehensive Las Vegas Frequently Asked Questions area.

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All contents copyright 2006 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

March 8, 2006 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 23, 2003

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, shows, tours, golf, and dining 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, visit our Newsletter Site.

This Issue: Hypnolarious Starring Terry Stokes

Also In This Issue – April 23, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, News Of Interest To Tourists, Hummer Gold Rush Adventure Tour, The Revere Golf Club
Shows | Headliners | Tours | Dining | Golf | Rental Cars | Airfare | Packages

Print Out This Number! – Call (toll free) 866-828-9849 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 visited the Crazy Girls show last week. We haven’t seen it since comedian Joe Trammel took over hosting duties. The show dancers are now even a more risquÚ. Plus, Trammel spoofs everthing from Richard Simmons to Lord Of The Dance and his quick-paced comedy was great.

Crazy Girls is a must for “guys night out” but still plenty sensual enough for couples. The night we went, couples made up the bulk of the audience, including one who had been married for over 50 years! Talk about keeping spice in the marriage! Click for Crazy Girls Tickets, Crazy Girls Photos, Crazy Girls Streaming Video

Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

Playboy’s 50’th Anniversary Playmate Search – continues this week at JillianÆs Las Vegas. Playboy will spend two days interviewing and photographing prospective Playmates at JillianÆs Las Vegas this Wednesday and Thursday, with events and fashion shows to follow. Read More …

Mamma Mia! Tickets – continue on sale now for the smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA. Acclaimed by the Associated Press as “quite simply a phenomenon,” Mamma Mia! has broken virtually every known box office record and continues to sell out every performance, playing to more than 10,000 people nightly around the world. Click for Mamma Mia! tickets.

Britney Spears Sunning At Palms – Rumors are floating around about Britney Spears and Palms owner George Maloof. If you lounged by the Palms pool last week, you saw Britney in her red bikini taking in some sun. If you missed it, click here for the photos. Now you know why people pay the resort prices to mingle at places like The Palms, Hard Rock, Mandalay Bay and other celeb hot spots!

Premium Seating for “O”Cirque Du Soleil’s “O” continues to be regarded as the most impressive, outstanding show in Las Vegas. And while there truly isn’t a bad seat in the specially designed theatre, this show sells out well in advance and any ticket (let alone the best seats) can be tough if you don’t act early.

We encourage you visit our regular “O” Tickets Page but if your dates are already sold out, or you want spectacular seats to celebrate that special occasion (or just because you want them), check our our “O” Premium and Sold Out seat availability.

Ventriloquist Wedding in Imperial Palace Ballroom – The 2003 Vegas Ventriloquist Festival, ôCelebrating the Wonderful World of Edgar Bergen,ö will be held April 25-27, 2003, in the Royal Halls at Imperial Palace and promises to be one of the all-time grand events of ventriloquism. Read More …

Free Comedy Shows – Who says there aren’t any freebies left in Las Vegas! The Comedy Zone plays in The Plaza showroom Tues. – Sun. nights at 9 PM. Featuring a rotating cast of comedians, this show is absolutely free with no drink minimum.


Featured Shows!

V – The Ultimate Variety Show
á

Legends in Concert

á

Hypnolarious starring Terry Stokes
á


Featured Review: Hypnolarious Starring Terry Stokes

Hypnotist shows conjure up all kinds of ideas, especially to those who have never attended one. Am I going to be put under a crazy trance? Are people going to take their clothes off? Is this some kind of mystic seance?

Put those crazy notions aside and get ready to laugh and laugh and laugh when you go see Hypnolarious starring Terry Stokes. Yes, Stokes is a premier hypnotist but more importantly he is a funny guy. He’s a true entertainer. You’ll leave having enjoyed yourself.

Like other hypnotist shows, volunteers are chosen from the audience. Before being hypnotized, Stokes tells them that after the show they will find their clothes neatly folded by the side of the stage after the show (just a joke, this show is PG-13 but no one gets naked). Read More …

Featured Tour: Hummer Gold Rush Adventure Tour

Hummer Gold Rush Adventure Tour – Your powerful Hummer travels deep into the desert on old mining trails not accessible by your everyday vehicles. After a stunning view of the famous Colorado River, your guide will share secrets of the early prospectors and even give you a few minutes to do some serious treasure hunting…you may even get lucky! And of course, you can keep what you find..

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

Featured Golf Course: The Revere Golf Club

The Revere Golf Club – A revolutionary golf experience with 36 holes that will test your skills, challenge your nerve, and inspire your soul. Created by legendary PGA Tour player Billy Casper and architect Greg Nash, The Revere presents a blend of beauty and challenge unlike any other in Southern Nevada.

Additional Las Vegas Golf Courses and Golf Vacations

NBA 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 NBA Premium and Sold Out seating. (NHL Playoffs Coming Soon).


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Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

CEO
Senior Content Editor
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All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
April 23, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 13, 2000

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 40 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.

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This Issue: Free Las Vegas Stuff

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


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!


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

BYE BYE 2000 – Vegas style! The plans have been laid out for New Year’s Eve. $500,000 worth of fireworks are going to be shot off from the tops of 14 hotels stretching from Mandalay Bay to The Stratosphere in a 10 minute spectacular like nothing else the town has ever seen! Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-12-Tue-2000/news/15013683.html

As we go to press, the following strip and downtown hotels still have rooms under $200 a night. Rates listed available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm (Sat. night arrival generally not allowed):

Riviera – $149.95
Terribles Casino (1 mile east of Ballys) – $189.95
Vacation Village – $189.95
Imperial Palace – $195.95
San Remo – $195.95
Golden Nugget – $195.95

Above New Year’s weekend rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

SHOWGIRLS – Are they a dying breed? The longtime Las Vegas symbol is actually featured in far fewer shows than the past with the prevalence of variety and “name act” shows. Full story and photos at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-21-Tue-2000/living/14773530.html

WILD WILD WEST – Untamed Nevada with its amazing scenic wonders is closer than you think, with many incredible natural areas sitting less than 2 hours from Las Vegas. If you enjoy natures beauty, or got clobbered at the casino your first day, take a day and enjoy the views. Full story at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/100285_vegaswild25.html Don’t have a car? We have tours to most of these sights at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

LIVE CAMS! – More Las Vegas live web cameras are going online all the time now. SmartConnect.Net lets you view the Las Vegas Strip live at http://www.smartconnect.net/livedemo/lvacts/lvblvd-flamingo/lvblvd-flamingo.html

SOUTHWEST AIR – has added 15 new flights to Las Vegas, making it their second most served destination. Included in those 15 flights is a new nonstop from Birmingham, AL here to LAS. We appreciate the hard work of Southwest Air and the many airlines that bring you to your favorite fun destination! Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-03-Sun-2000/business/14931527.html and our year-end poll asks which airline you use when you fly to Las Vegas. Take the poll at http://www.accessvegas.com

BULL RIDING – The PCRA returns to the MGM Grand Garden June 14-16 with the finale of the Wrangler ProRodeo Tour. Tickets are available at (702) 474-4000 and MGM discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm (MGM link). To our rodeo fans, we apologize for our lack of info on National Finals Rodeo the past few weeks. It conincided with our two-week hiatus.

VALET PARKING – If you have ever wondered what life is like for that person you have never met before that you hand your keys to, the R-J did an interesting profile on valet parkers at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-28-Tue-2000/living/14881263.html

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

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

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

WINNERS! – Thanks to our friends Vegasgifts.com at http://www.vegasgifts.com/partner.asp?REFERER=1356 for sponsoring recent contests. The Vegas video winners are Cindy Tomasi of Italy and Marianne Modie of Parma, OH and the 2001 Vegas Calendar winners are Darrell Peplow of Moline, IL and Jean Smith of Huntington Beach, CA



 

 


RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Mask – (Rio) – http://www.lvcitylife.com/dining/stories/00120701d.html
* Palm (Forum Shops) – http://lasvegas.citysearch.com/profile?id=7022178&fid=2
* WB Stage 16 ((Venetian) – http://www.lvlife.com/nov2000/dining/story01.html

2001 ZAGAT SURVEY – of America’s Top Restaurants lists the he top five local restaurants in terms of food rankings:

1. Andre’s French Restaurant (Monte Carlo)
2. Michael’s (Barbary Coast)
3. Steak House (Circus Circus)
4. Emeril’s New Orleans Fish House (MGM Grand)
5. Drai’s (Barbary Coast)

Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-13-Wed-2000/living/14981546.html

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENTS: Billy Joel / Elton John coming to the MGM February 17, 2000. Info at http://www.accessvegas.com/entertainment/index.htm

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Midnight Fantasy – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Dec-08-Fri-2000/weekly/14965014.html

SHOWS AND HEADLINER – listings available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm
CONCERT – listings available 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 – 56/40 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 60/35 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 68/38 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 69/36 Mostly Sunny
Monday – 67/35 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Free Las Vegas Stuff

Free – is always a good price and sidewalk attractions such as the Mirage’s exploding volcano, the Excalibur’s animatronic battle pitting Merlin the Magician against a dragon, and Treasure Island’s live action pirate battle draw thousands of tourists daily. Read about these and other free things to do and see in Las Vegas at http://www.spokesmanreview.com/news-story.asp?date=121000&ID=s889424

Bottoms Up – This afternoon show at the Flamingo Hilton lists at $12.95 but coupons for free admission for two are found in just about every tourist magazine in town. They only ask that you buy the one drink minimum ($5.95 – take the show coupon to the ticket office, where you pay for the drink in advance). These are the free magazines that you may find in your hotel room, near the front desk, etc. If you can’t find any, just ask the front desk where free tourist magazines are. Bottoms Up claims to be in it’s 40’th year (probably in some incarnation) and that is about how old the jokes and gags are. It is the only afternoon topless revue in town, and a bit on the raunchy side, but the price is right.

Blackjack Insider Newsletter – You can get a FREE copy of the new Blackjack Insider newsletter emailed to
you every two weeks by signing up at http://www.casino.com/newsletter The
newsletter is edited by Henry Tamburin and it contains helpful information
for blackjack players including playing strategy tips, updated playing
conditions, analysis of side bets, tournament schedules, trip reports by the
pros, casino spotlight, book reviews, Q&A, exclusive interviews with
blackjack experts, and lots more.

Cheap Stuff – Longtime Las Vegas aficionados Matt Weatherford and Mark Sinclair search out all that is cheap in Las Vegas ($1 blackjack, rooms for under $50, $2.95 chicken dinners) and were recently profiled at http://www.spokesmanreview.com/news-story.asp?date=121000&ID=s891159 Their Big Empire website features extensive info on what if free and cheap in Las Vegas at http://www.bigempire.com/vegas/



 

 


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Calendar winner Cindy Tomasi from Italy wrote:

>I can’t wait to get the calendar!! Thank you so much in advance!!
>
>We’ve been in Vegas for one week in September andáI gotta say that after
>reading so many issues of your newsletter, we knew all the best places to
>go, prices, etc. … so that was a great help and thanks to you we had a great
>time in Vegas again!! Your newsletter gives THE BEST info on Las Vegas, so
>keep up the good work!!
>
>Merry Christmas and Happy 2001!!

Thanks for the kind words and glad to hear you had fun, especially since you fly halfway around the world to visit Las Vegas!

Long time readers like yourself know that one of the big reasons I started this newsletter is because every time I am on the Strip or Fremont Street I overhear tourists wondering if they should go here or there, or saying that they heard a [show / tour / restaurant] was good (probably due to some advertisement) when in reality it is a waste of time. Your vacation time here is valuable, and we enjoy helping you make the most of it!

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

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


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


ONLINE POLL – If you fly, which airline do you usually fly to Las Vegas? Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published first week of 2001!

Results from last weeks poll “What is your favorite day trip from Las Vegas?”

Never left the Strip or Downtown 17%
Hoover Dam 19%
Lake Mead (boating, etc.) 38%
Valley of Fire 21%
Primm, Jean, Mesquite 1%
Red Rock Canyon 1%
Laughlin 0%

Don’t forget to check out our new, improved tours page with photos and great Las Vegas area tours at http://www.accessvegas.com/tours

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Send 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.

$10,000 – If you recommend this newsletter to friends, you are entered to win $10,000! Help spread the word and give yourself a chance to line your pockets by clicking http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126

LAS VEGAS VACATION – Frommer’s is giving away roundtrip air transportation for two between a major airport in the 48 contiguous states to Las Vegas, Nevada, five-nights accommodations at the Aladdin Hotel & Casino, tickets to American Superstars Show, a buffet lunch, and admission to the Stratosphere Tower Observation Deck. Enter at (contest closed)

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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.
December 13, 2000 ISSN: 1529-2770