Tag Archives: gambling

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 15, 2001

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

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

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

THIS ISSUE: Letters and Complaints

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

================================================

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

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

================================================

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

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

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

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

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

FEATURE STORY: Hotel Complaints

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

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

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

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

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jack Singiser wrote:

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

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

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

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

Robert Brinin wrote:

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

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

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

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

Mark E. Leslein of Warner Robins, GA wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Keith and Sandra Crider of Medford, OR wrote:

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

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

Linda & John Ward wrote:

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

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

Patti wrote:

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

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

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

Ruby Stout wrote:

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

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

Tom Bain wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Walter Nehls wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOCAL NOTES:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LAS VEGAS TRAVEL SPECIALS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – July 18, 2001

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

THIS WEEK’S CITY ON SALE: Orlando — rates starting at $65.95! Choose from Best Western Lake Buena Vista, Caribe Royale, Radisson Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Orlando, Doubletree Club, Disney Celebration Hotel and more. For details, click http://www.accessvegas.com/city-on-sale.htm

VEGAS SPECIAL: Las Vegas’ Excalibur rates from $75.95!, Sun-Thurs. – 7/02/01 – 7/31/01:
http://www.accessvegas.com/vegas-special.htm

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

(New expanded message board coming in one week.)

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

THIS ISSUE: WB Stage 16 Restaurant

EDITOR NOTES: We’re still publishing biweekly (more or less!) through the end of the summer. The good news is that the new, comprehensive message board so many of you have requested will be up in one week. Meetings this past week regarding the extensive internet video projects have been going well. Spokesmodel Elizabeth Russo is on board and I feel will be a great asset. Las Vegas chef John Guinivere will be providing video profiles of many of the great culinary offerings this town offers, and himself has a great site with informative cooking videos, recipes and more at http://www.cheflive.com

There are sites besides ours that have short video clips of the Bellagio Fountains and similar that you have to surf all over the net to find, but we are going to archive substantial video information all in one place with regular updates! For those who have shown interest in getting involved but have not sent me their info (portfolio or voice-over samples), please do so soon as we are moving steadily ahead.

Finally, we want to welcome Casino Perks to our family of advertisers. They have also given us a couple of their great coupon books to give away this week in the contest section. Right now as an introductory offer, we are giving away free ads in the newsletter to those who buy inexpensive paid links in our main directories. Full info on both paid and free links at http://www.accessvegas.com/add-your-link.htm

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

SHADOW – The new lounge at Caesars Palace tries to capitalize on the new upscale lounge trend in town. The bartenders are unbelievably skilled a la Tom Cruise in the movie Cocktail. They don’t just pour a drink. They flip, juggle, shake, behind the back, you name it. The lounge is gaining notoriety because behind the bar, topless female dancers apparently clad in only a bikini or thong bottom dance behind a translucent screen, backlit so that you can only see their shadow. Unfortunately, the lounge misses the mark with an atmosphere that is much too bright and airy. This may attract the regular Caesars patron, but no one is going to be leaving Venetian’s V-Bar in favor of Shadow.

FREE MARGARITA – at Casino Royale (between Harrah’s and The Venetian) to anyone showing out-of-state ID at the main bar. If you drive here or rent a car, also take advantage of their parking garage right behind the small casino. It is steps from The Strip and sits half empty even on weekends — truly a best kept secret!

FLOATING CRAPS GAME – Former Las Vegas News Bureau photographer Don English, shot a floating craps table game recently at the Stratosphere pool. It was a recreation of a photo from the 50’s. The event was part of the Stratosphere’s promotion marking the opening of its new $75 million, 1,000-room tower. Photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-05-Thu-2001/business/16472633.html

SHOWGIRLS – “Las Vegas Showgirls: Making It” begins a three-week shoot Wednesday, focusing on six “Jubilee!” dancers, four women and two men, on- and offstage. The six range in age from 19-year-old Laine, a college student who moonlights as a showgirl, to 31-year-old Tammi, who’s engaged to a divorced firefighter with two children. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-16-Mon-2001/living/16535544.html

EXPENSIVE TASTE – So much for Las Vegas as a cheap place to get a meal: The 2001-2002 Zagat Survey of local restaurants reports the average cost of dinner here has risen to $32.42, including one drink, tax and tip. That’s up from $25.70 last year and $20.80 in 1997. Technically, the 2001 survey places Las Vegas eighth in the Zagat universe, behind Tokyo, London, Paris and four areas in and near New York City. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-18-Wed-2001/news/16565103.html

SHOWS PRICES – Not only does it cost a few more bucks to eat, but ticket prices rise with each year. Ironically, the highest price shows are the toughest tickets in town to get. The Review-Journal just ran three articles about shows, how they are prices, and what goes on behind the scenes to drive these prices:
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-15-Sun-2001/news/16544020.html
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-15-Sun-2001/news/16370960.html
http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-15-Sun-2001/news/16362859.html

FOOTBALL – isn’t far off, and now is the time to scope out the weekends you might want to be in town to do some serious sports betting! Howard Schwartz of the Gambler’s Book Club has suggested a number of great football betting books at http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/062701.html UNLV games will be on the board for the first time this year, which will make local games more interesting (with fans rooting in droves for them to run up the score, or fans staying at a game that is essentially over hoping to see if a team covers or not). Also, the Imperial Palace is already taking bets on a number of big college games slated for the fall. Full story on both these topics at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-16-Mon-2001/sports/16545895.html

BRITNEY SPEARS – wants everyone to know she’s not a little girl anymore. That’s the message in her third album, due out Nov. 6, and her live concert special from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas airing Nov. 18 on HBO. Full story at http://www.canoe.ca/JamMusic/jul14_spears_britney-ap.html

DRINKING AND GAMBLING – Dear Mark: What is the best game to play when your main goal is to get free drinks from the casino over an extended period? Is the location of where you play relative to the number of drinks you can get?
— Alex W. Dear Alex: I want to preface my response by first making this extremely important point. Free drinks (chip remover), which have always been part of the casino ambiance, speeds up the process of losing. All bets are off on the quality of your play when influenced by alcoholic beverages. Remainder at http://detnews.com/2001/entertainment/0107/13/e07-246743.htm

BROTHELS – Although it is banned in Las Vegas and Reno — and 49 states — prostitution is legal in 10 of Nevada’s 17 counties. A remnant of the old West, it is not only tolerated, but often embraced. Full story at http://www.courierpress.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?200107/15+oldest071501_news.html+20010715 In related news, a Pahrump brothel (60 miles west of Las Vegas) wants to turn their brothel into a major resort. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-16-Mon-2001/news/16519550.html

MAKING YOUR BED – The fastest bedmaker in the west wrapped things up during the 22nd annual bedmaking competition at the Las Vegas International Hotel and Restaurant Show last month with a time of 1 minute, 24 seconds. With only four months’ experience as a housekeeper at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, Blanca Vasquez, 27, beat out 200 participants from 13 hotels to win a Serta mattress set. Full story at http://washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A47449-2001Jul11.html

FIREFIGHTERS WANTED – The cities of Las Vegas and North Las Vegas are preparing a joint recruitment for the position of Firefighter Trainee in the first quarter of the year 2002. A person who is interested in this type of career must possess an Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) certification, valid driver’s license, high school diploma or equivalent, be 18 years or older and must meet current physical condition requirements on the date of appointment. For more information about this recruitment, http://www.ci.las-vegas.nv.us/FirefightersWanted.htm

FASHION SHOW – The mall just north of Treasure Island is underway with a major expansion which will include a 600-foot-long canopy structure (which also looks to offer some great shade to the area). Story and photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-17-Tue-2001/business/16553770.html

YOUR LOST STUFF – Most visitors, at the end of their stay, leave something on the Strip, usually in the form of money. But others take it a step further and leave clothes, luggage, microwave ovens, coffeepots, prosthetic limbs, dentures, house keys and other items. Some are heartbroken over their loss, and try to trace their steps in hopes of finding what they treasure. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jul-08-Sun-2001/living/16401021.html

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL ). Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL
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! – Frank Scimia of Diamond Bar, CA won the autographed Sheena Easton Poster. Judy Reitz of Fulton, NY and Mark Viness of Doraville, GA won the David Darkstone packages including shirt, poster, and show passes.

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:CARMEN ELECTRA – Former “Baywatch” star and Playboy model Carmen Electra has signed a two-year deal to star in her own show on the Las Vegas Strip. Story at http://www.azcentral.com/offbeat/articles/0713electravegas-ON.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Michael Holly Off-The-Wall Comedy Hour (Sahara)
* Skintight (Harrah’s) – http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* House Of Blues Sunday Gospel Brunch (Mandalay Bay) – http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm
* Pamplemousse (near The Sahara) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/2001/departments/2001_07_12/dining_taste.html

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

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 6 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Sunday – 104 ░F / 75 ░F Sunny
Monday – 104 ░F / 77 ░F Sunny
Tuesday – 105 ░F / 76 ░F Sunny
Wednesday – 104 ░F / 78 ░F Sunny
Thursday – 107 ░F / 80 ░F Sunny

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

FEATURE STORIES: WB Stage 16 Restaurant

Warner Brothers may conjure up images of cartoon characters, but the studio has released some of the more noted movies of our time. In particular, Stage 16 on the Warners lot was home to the creation of popular motion pictures like Casablanca, Ocean’s 11, My Fair Lady, and the Batman films. These films and others are the basis for the theme of this upscale eatery in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian hotel.

However, let’s talk about the food first. Unlike most theme restaurants serving up overpriced truck stop fare, the quality and variety of Stage 16 is fantastic. Sure, you pay for it (and for the atmosphere we’ll discuss in a minute), but it’s a dining experience worth the time and money.

Fortunately, those of more moderate hunger (and budgets) aren’t left out. Sandwiches are served with Jalapeno Slaw and Vegetable Chips and include Honey Glazed Turkey and Borgonzola “Santa Barbara” ($11.75), Grilled Portabella and Buffalo Mozzarella Panni ($10.75), Stage 16 Burger ($9.25), Shrimp Caesar Wrap ($11.75), Lemon Pepper Swordfish Sandwich ($12.95), and Tuscan Herb Crusted Chicken Sandwich ($10.75). A variety of Brick Oven Flatbreads including Oak Roasted Chicken and Stuffed Lasagna Pizza run in the $11-13.00 range. Noodles selections include Angel Hair Pomodoro, Linguine Pronto, Vanilla Seared Shrimp and others ranging from $10.95 to $23.95.

Appetizers include Rock Shrimp and Corn Chowder ($6.95), Petaluna Escargot and Wild Mushrooms ($9.75), Avodacado and Brie Bruschetta ($10.75), Wok Fried Duck Spring Rolls ($9.95), Sesame Seared Tuna ($11.95) and Caviar (market price.) Salads are al la cart and include House ($6.95), Roasted Garlic and Herb Hearts of Palm ($8.75), Oriental Chicken Chop Salad ($10.75), Classic Caesar ($8.25), Mediterranean Salad ($12.95), and Candied Pecan, Apple and Watercress Salad ($9.25).

The dinner menu shines with standard dining selections like Prime Rib ($20.95 10 oz. and $32.95 for 14 oz.), Cracked Pepper Filet Mignon ($29.95), Herb and Garlic Crusted Lamb Chops ($28.95), Lemon Herb Barbecued Salmon ($21.95), Ancho Cinnamon Pork Tenderloin ($24.95), Cola Barbecued Half Chicken ($18.95), and Fish and Chips ($19.95). More artistic selections include Grilled Chicken and Apricot Kebobs ($16.95), Turkey and Shitake Mushroom Meatloaf ($15.75), Lobster and Wild Mushroom Strudel ($29.95), and Basalmic Wild Mushroom Studded New York Strip Loin ($28.95).

A children’s section of the menu includes younger diner favorites like Crispy Crunchy Chicken Strips, Sound Stage 16 Burger, Country Style Corn Dogs, Herb Crusted Lemon Sole, and even a full line of Beachnut Baby Products for $7.95 (per selection).

The atmosphere? Hard to put into words, but a key part of the meal. Diners are seated on one of four unique rooms, each themed to a certain film. “Gotham City” is the set that served as the background for the climatic face-off between Batman and The Joker complete with sound and lighting effects (noticeable but not obtrusive enough to undermine a nice dinner). The “We’re in the Money” room is from the film Gold Diggers of 1933 taking diners back to another era of film production. “Las Vegas 60’s Lounge” is straight from Ocean’s 11 and takes you back to the Rat Pack era. My favorite? “Rick’s American Cafe” interior from Casablanca. You truly feel that you walked onto the original movie set 55 years later.

I’ve enjoyed WB Stage 16 alone, with friends, and clients and have yet to have a bad meal or sample a dish that wasn’t up to par. And after dinner (or if you already dined somewhere else), Jacks Velvet Lounge upstairs in the restaurant is a must. It features both enclosed and outdoor areas and provides a front row view of The Strip overlooking The Mirage and the volcano in the distance as well as the canals along the entrance of the Venetian.

WB Stage 16 is upstairs in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, just at the top of the escalators which take you from the main casino floor to the shopping area. They are open for lunch and dinner every day. Reservations are suggested at (702) 414-1699 as the restaurant does occasionally play host to private parties and film screenings.


á

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:>Dear Ted,
>
>Rumor has it that slot machines placed at the end of rows, or in the
>aisles, or placed anywhere where they would be easily seen to players
>pay off better. The reason for this would be so that as people walk
>by, they would be more likely to see a machine pay off. Whereas a
>machine located somewhere like while you’re waiting in line or at the
>airport would not pay off as well, because you are less likely to
>spend any length of time at such a machine.
>
>I have also heard that this is merely a myth. Casino’s know it so
>they create smaller banks of machines on their floor plan to allow for
>”more aisle” machines.

I have no inside info on this or I’d be down playing slots instead of running my little web “empire” here. I understand it was true at one time, but I’ve also heard that casinos have now played on that myth forever. I will say this: I’ve never seen a people winning on the machines close to the ladies room, where the men are killing time waiting for their significant other!

I would also avoid playing two machines at one time, as I’ve read much on how staggering loose and tight machines causes people to take from one and give to the other. The slots at the airport are tight simply because they aren’t trying to give enough back to encourage return business. You are stuck, you are only there because you have to be, and they know that.

M. Comer wrote:

>I was in LV this past weekend (5th-7th) mainly to do some
>shopping (not a great success) and to see the downtown everyone was
>talking about. I was not disappointed. Except for the rain, I was
>thoroughly impressed by the new design, unobstructed sidewalks,
>mid-street crossing, the safe and welcome feeling. If given the
>chance, I would have pulled up a little table and chair right in the
>middle of the “street” and people-watched. The strip is exciting (as
>it should be), but to enjoy LV at a little more leisurely pace, try
>Fremont Street, downtown. It has its own brand of class. You can
>always go back to the crowd, noise and traffic later (I did – much
>later)

Allen Waterman wrote:

>I just wanted to give you an update on the “O” situation I talked
>about in my trip report you printed in your last issue. I sent them
>an e-mail stating my disappointment with the staff and they refunded
>my ticket costs. I was very pleased with the way the Bellagio handled
>this.

Elizabeth wrote:

>Hi Ted, Just a note to say how much I enjoy reading your newsletter.
>Since moving to AZ we visit Vegas quite often. I must say that I have
>become very disenchanted with the Strip. I don’t expect to leave a
>big winner (would be nice) but I at least would like to have a little
>more bang for my buck so to speak. I used to be able to play for
>several hours with the money that I now spend in a few. Have you
>heard of any changes in the slot machine payoffs? I do like to play
>Craps but that can get costly at times. On our way to Mammoth Lakes,
>we spent the night in Vegas and stayed at the Texas Station. I had
>more fun there, it reminded me of the Vegas of old. In fact, I hit a
>royal flush something I haven’t done on the strip in probably 10 years
>or more. We think the food is good, it has a very large and player
>friendly casino. I look forward to your issue listing the best
>buffets in Vegas. Looking forward to your input. Thanks again for
>your great newsletter. I look forward to seeing your name in my
>inbox.

I seldom cover anything away from The Strip or downtown because the vast majority of Vegas visitors never leave these tourist areas. However, I have talked to a number of people like yourself who visit often, have a car, and enjoy staying at one of the “local’s” casinos a few miles away from The Strip. Because these properties cater to locals who are very savvy, play regularly, and spread plenty of word-of-mouth among their friends, they have to offer looser slots, great service, and good food deals all the time. We have these casinos and hotel specifically listed at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-hotels-other.htm

A O’Neal wrote:

>I read all of your mail about visitor’s to Las Vegas. I have been
>visiting the city several times a year for the past 38 years. Big is
>not always better. Downtown the little corner hotel & casino know as
>”The Las Vegas Club” is a winner. The staff, dealers, (all
>employee’s) go out of their way to make one feel at home. It’s a
>hidden Winner!

I agree — when you put together the low room rates, good downtown location, low limits, and regular food specials the Las Vegas Club gives plenty of bang for the buck. You can read more about Las Vegas Club and check rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/hotels/lv-club-hotel-las-vegas-room-reservations.htm

Tony and Carol in Southampton, England wrote:

>Your newsletter is great
>and keeps us up to date with all the news. We have been to Las Vegas
>twice, last year and the year before staying at the Stratosphere
>hotel. We had a wonderful time, going in and out all the hotels, the
>Fremont Experience and the Liberace Museum. We caught the trolley bus
>one evening that stops at all the hotels, went down as far as he
>Bellagio and slowly walked back up the strip back to the Stratosphere,
>going in and out the hotels on our way. Also calling in at some of
>the Wedding Chapels which were lovely. The view from the top of the
>Stratosphere tower is brilliant, but did not try The Big Shot or the
>Rollercoaster!!! We are looking forward to coming again next year May
>2002, which we have already booked our holiday for.

The only problem with The Strat is that location at the top end of The Strip. You do need to rent a car or relegate yourself to the Strip Trolley or city bus. However, it has great restaurants, good gaming, and I love that tower. I’m up there every couple of months just to enjoy the view. Plus, both American Superstars and Viva Las Vegas (both reviewed at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com ) offer a great value.

Carol Helmholz of Tucson, Arizona wrote:

>A friend and I just visited Las Vegas for the first time in 30 years.
>You can imagine the changes! We stayed at the Bellagio, which was
>wonderful. The rooms were lovely, and I particularly liked the wide
>walkways through the casino, as opposed to having to wend your way
>around the slot machines in other hotel/casinos. And of course every
>time we went through the lobby, we stared in awe at Dale Chihuly’s
>beautiful glass sculpture ceiling. The absence of the cheapening neon
>in the lobby and casino was especially nice (as opposed to the MGM
>Grand and others).
>
>I was interested to see with this newsletter the review of the exhibit
>of Steve Martin’s art collection. We were expecting to see Steve
>Wynn’s collection, but were pleasantly surprised at how much we
>enjoyed Martin’s. I am wondering what will appear at the Bellagio
>museum after Martin’s exhibit leaves in September? I noticed in The
>Venetian the signs advertising the coming of the Guggenheim-Hermitage
>Museum. Who would have ever believed there would be quality art
>exhibits in Las Vegas!!
>
>The greatest change we noticed, besides the wonderful new hotels, is
>the attitude towards food. Thirty years ago, food in Las Vegas was
>sort of secondary — the cheaper the better. Now we can enjoy eating
>in “branches” of some of the finest restaurants in the country. We
>enjoyed dinners at “Circo” in the Bellagio, “Onda” at the Mirage, and
>”Emeril Lagasse’s New Orleans Fish House” in the MGM Grand. We also
>enjoyed the Bellagio Buffet.
>
>The show at the Bellagio, Cirque du Soleil’s “O,” was outstanding. I
>would highly recommend it for all ages. Because they are a “Las Vegas
>Institution,” we went to the Siegfried & Roy Show. Some of the
>effects and production numbers were quite “hokey” and even the two
>stars seemed uncomfortable in the settings. The best was when they
>had their animals on stage or were doing traditional magic. We had
>made advance reservations for those two shows, but were delighted to
>find that Tom Jones was performing while we were there, and we were
>able to get tickets. He is amazing at his age (60?). He still looks
>good, and his voice is as strong and good as ever. Enjoyed seeing
>him.
>
>I definitely plan to not wait 30 years for my next visit to Las Vegas!

Thanks for the great report! You have inspired our poll this week at http://www.accessvegas.com — “When was your last visit to Las Vegas?”

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

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


á

ONLINE POLL – “When was your last visit to Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!Results from last poll: “Which Las Vegas hotel has the nicest lobby?”

Bellagio 42%
Mirage 19%
Mandalay Bay 12%
Paris 9%
Luxor 8%
Monte Carlo 4%
New York, New York 2%

FREE CONTEST:

CASINO PERKS – We have two Casino Perks coupon books to give away! Each book contains over 1,000
worth of 2 for 1 Show, Dining, Family Fun, Blackjack Matchplay and Car Rentals discounts for Las Vegas. Enter by sending a blank email to (contest closed) One entry per person, you must be a newsletter subscriber to win. Deadline for entries: Tuesday, July 24, 2001. Winners will be chosen in a random drawing from all eligible entries received before deadline and be notified by email.

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

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!

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
July 18, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – June 13, 2001

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

THIS WEEK’S CITY ON SALE: Boston — rates starting at $99.95! Choose from Midtown Hotel, Swissotel, Days Hotel, Fairmont Copley Plaza, Radisson Cambridge and more. For details, click http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/hotdeals?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC

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

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

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

THIS ISSUE: The Rat Pack Is Back

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

JACKPOT – Major William Tracy had been in Las Vegas for less than a
day when he struck it rich early Wednesday morning, winning $3 million
on a Wheel of Fortune(R) dollars machine at the Flamingo Las Vegas.
“I just sat there staring at the payline, trying to figure out what
was happening when a security guard walked up to tell me that I had
just won $3 million. I’m still in shock,” he said. Tracy, 32, and
his wife, Alicia, are in Las Vegas to attend graduation ceremonies at
the USAF Weapons School at Nellis AFB. Tracy, who flies an F-15C
fighter, is currently stationed in Japan. The Tracys aren’t sure what
they’ll do with their winnings. “Make some investments, help our
families. It’s a lot to figure out. But there is one thing we are
sure of — we don’t want things to change … at least, not too
much,” Tracy said.

MONORAIL – Right now, early construction on the first phase of the Las Vegas monorail is underway. Running from the MGM to the Desert Inn, the line is eventually slated to run downtown. Proposed extensions run both to the airport and along the casinos on the West side of The Strip. Full story with map at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-29-Tue-2001/news/16179719.html

MARINERS -áááá The Seattle baseball team continues to terrorize their opponents, as well as the Vegas sportsbooks. Count the Mirage as one of many Nevada casinos that would welcome some avalanche control. It listed the Mariners at 45-to-1 odds to win the World Series before the season started, a number the team has pared to 7-2, second only to the Yankees’ 5-2. Full story (which includes a little inside peak at how baseball lines are set) at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-1.htm

ENERGY CRUNCH – is continuing to be felt by the hotels here. While Nevada has secured enough energy for the summer, the prices are on the rise. Harrah’s Entertainment, Station Casinos and the Riviera Hotel and Casino have tacked a $3-a-night surcharge on hotel rooms at their Nevada casinos. Whether to charge customers more is especially a dilemma for the more expensive casinos on the Strip, where image is everything and customers could perceive such a move as tacky. Bellagio, for example, now has a system that adjusts air conditioning and turns off lights when offices aren’t used. Full story at http://www.accessvegas.com/story-2.htm

EPICUREAN AFFAIR – The 11th annual Epicurean Affair, featuring signature dishes from local restaurants, wine, a silent auction and live entertainment, is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. June 20 at The Mirage, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South. More than 50 restaurants plan to participate in the event, dubbed “The Rhythm of Flavor” and carrying a Latin American theme. Details at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-30-Wed-2001/living/16149617.html

NO KIDDING – In light of the recent “Kids In Vegas” debate, I was informed about No Kidding. This is a group of people who are child-free by choice. They are adamant that they don’t hate children nor are trying to pass anti-child laws. It is just a social group for people who have no kids and enjoy social events with others in the same position. The national page is at http://mypage.direct.ca/j/jerry_s/ and the Las Vegas chapter can be contacted at (click) mailto:lasvegas@nokidding.net

VEGAS FOR KIDS – If you are bringing your kids to Las Vegas, “101 Things for Kids in Las Vegas” by Carol Stout is a must have. Instead of dragging them through the hot sun or locking them in the room while you gamble, make the trip fun for them. This excellent book is available online from Amazon.Com at
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1886161208/invegascom

LIFE OF A DEALER – CNN profiles people in various careers, asking them questions about the job and their life. They just profiled a Vegas blackjack dealer at http://www.cnn.com/2001/CAREER/dayonthejob/06/12/casino/index.html

THE ECONOMY – For all the reasons Californians come here, there’s a growing list of reasons why, this summer, they may not. Higher gas prices. Hesitancy to leave homes untended during rolling blackouts. A softening economy. The lure of Vegas-style Indian casinos closer to home. But Las Vegas can spin an economic threat like a roulette wheel, and executives here say they expect this summer to be as strong as last year’s — especially as travelers reexamine their more exotic vacation plans. Full story at http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/stories/20010603/t000046305.html

STEVE WYNN HAS BURPED – It’s an inside joke — I’ve told friends that some people are so into Vegas that they would like an update every time Steve Wynn burps. (Wynn is former Mirage Resorts founder / CEO and that man who bought the Desert Inn to put a new resort there.) The most recent courtesy of R-J columnist Norm! is a massive makeover of the famed golf course, a large lake with lakefront condos, and a Cirque de Soleil-type show. Read full details at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-03-Sun-2001/news/16221974.html

WIRELESS CHECK-IN – The Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas plans to launch a pilot program this summer that’s aimed at using wireless devices to ensure that rooms are ready for arriving guests. Guests will meet hotel clerks at any of several entrances, including the car drop-off area, and be able to show a credit card to check reservations via a wireless LAN connection to a server in real time. Once the reservation has been confirmed, the clerk will be able to encode a room-key card for the guest. Full story at http://www.thestandard.com/article/0,1902,26682,00.html

KIDS QUEST – The new Palms Hotel Casino (under construction near The Rio) is going to have a child care center. These centers are already popular at some “local’s” casinos around town. Story at http://twincities.bcentral.com/twincities/stories/2001/05/07/daily25.html

SOUTH STRIP – Recently, a continuing series on urban hikes in Las Vegas focuses on the Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, and Four Seasons hotels. Included are good synopses of the attractions at each and worth printing out before you next trip. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-13-Sun-2001/living/16040904.html

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL ). Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL
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!


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

35TH ANNUAL VICTOR AWARDS – The Las Vegas Hilton will host the 35th Annual Victor Awards June 23, honoring the world’s greatest athletes and coaches, with event proceeds going to City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute. The event will be broadcast live on Fox Sports Net from the Hilton Theater starting at 5:00 p.m. PST/8:00 p.m. EST. Tickets are available through the City of Hope for $50 and black tie is required. To purchase tickets, call City of Hope at 800-544-3541, extension 26206.

Each year, the Academy of Victor Sports Awards recognizes star athletes from baseball, basketball, football, track and field, boxing, tennis and more. This year’s nominees include Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Marion Jones, Venus Williams, Eddie George, Mario Lemieux, Cynthia Cooper and Tiger Woods.

NUDE CABARET – MGM is launching “La Femme” in partnership with the infamous Crazy Horse of Paris, France on June 14. The name was changed for Vegas to avoid any legal trouble with the local strip club of the same name. While promising to show a lot of skin in a theatrical fashion, Clark County liquor laws prohibit total nudity anywhere booze is served so the producers of the new show are being slightly creative with their “all nude” presentation. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-25-Fri-2001/news/16178266.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Earl Turner (Rio) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-01-Fri-2001/weekly/16204135.html
* Liberace Museum – http://www.viewnews.com/2001/VIEW-Jun-06-Wed-2001/East/16215569.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Onda (Mirage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jun-06-Wed-2001/living/16208847.html
* Seasons (Bally’s) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-30-Wed-2001/living/16184064.html

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

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

Thursday – 91 ░F / 70 ░F Sunny
Friday – 98 ░F / 76 ░F Sunny
Saturday – 102 ░F / 80 ░F Sunny
Sunday – 103 ░F / 79 ░F Partly Cloudy
Monday – 103 ░F / 79 ░F Partly Cloudy
Tuesday – 103 ░F / 80 ░F Partly Cloudy

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

FEATURE STORIES: The Rat Pack Is Back

Sometimes I really look forward to reviewing the shows, and other times it’s just another day at the office. Granted, I’m not complaining — there are worse offices than a Las Vegas showroom and since 90% of my time is spent in front of the computer, it is always pleasant to get out in the “real world.”

The Rat Pack Is Back is a show I was truly looking forward to seeing. Up until recently, the show had been on a month-to-month engagement at the Sahara which didn’t make it a good review candidate. I don’t want to tell you about something that might be closed by the time you get to town! However, with a new one-year contract (and possible extensions), this show is here to stay.

I was looking forward to it because although not yet born in the heyday of the Rat Pack, I’ve always been curious about the vibe they brought to Las Vegas. I have a poster of them in my office. I’ve seen all the specials on the cable TV channels chronicling their time here. But would this show be a reasonably true recreation that brings back that vibe, or would I be seeing some second rate impersonators limping their way through a show as some of the budget Elvis’ seem to do?

Thankfully, it was the former. While not the Copa Room (where the originals played often at The Sands), the Congo room at the Sahara was festively decorated and very comfortable. “Joey” (played by comedian Mark Cohen — legalities prevent the performers from using the full names of the people they impersonate in the show) came out and told us that it was a very special night: December 12, 1961 … which just happened to be “Frank’s” birthday. He warmed the crowd up with some truly funny comedy.

He then introduced “Frank,” played by famed Sinatra impressionist Steve Lippia who sung a collection of hits from the era including “Luck Be A Lady” while he worked the stage with a confident manner. His vocal comparison to Sinatra’s is uncanny, and the 20 piece orchestra backing all of the performers added to the realism of the period.

Rick Michel came out as “Dean,” in character with a huge martini glass. He was perhaps was the most dead-on in the looks department (although all had good resemblance to their original characters) and had an amazingly strong voice to boot. He ran through Dean Martin favorites such as Everybody Loves Somebody Sometimes and Find Yourself Somebody To Love.

Doug Starks is “Sammy,” and I mean he IS Sammy. An actual friend of the late entertainer he pays tribute to, he had the style, vocal quality, moves, and inflections down pat. Sailing through songs like That Old Black Magic and What Kind of Fool Am I, he took liberty to sing Mr. Bojangles, noting that it wouldn’t be released until 1968 … but “You are here, I am here, so let’s do it”!

From there, the show was filled with the kind of fun and frolic that these performers made legendary. They joked, sang duets, made little jabs at each other, and mixed drinks on stage. Celebrities in the audience were introduced (this night they included Robin Leach and Nevada Lt. Governor Lorraine Hunt). Although the original performers had a great camaraderie, even more credit to this group for being able to naturally recreate that night after night.

If you are old enough to remember and appreciate The Rat Pack, or were born a little after their Vegas heyday but are curious about what it must have been like and love that “old Vegas” vibe, this is a show well worth seeing.

The Rat Pack Is Back plays The Sahara hotel. Check times, costs, and availability at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1

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

EDITORS NOTE:

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Joyce Mitchell wrote:

> Hi, Ted!
> Thank you for your great newsletter. I really enjoy it. We
> returned from a four night visit to Vegas and are looking forward to
> the next visit — we go at least once or twice a year. Vacations in
> Vegas are real vacations — you can rest, relax, or be as frantic as
> you might be inclined, and all your old worries and troubles are far
> away in a different world. If you tire of noisy casinos, you can
> visit desert, canyons, or mountains. I recommend it! (People
> watching is high on the list of diversions!)
> I would like to comment on the new slots. People with a limited amount
> of cash to blow — like me and my husband — enjoy the
> sensation of putting in coins. We don’t even use the option of
> spinning on credit; we cash out the coins first. Besides, it seems to
> make your money last longer(!). While I understand the casinos’
> appreciation of paper slots, from my point of view — yuck! Washing
> your hands often makes a lot of sense anyway when you are messing
> around with machines that lots of people handle. And on a slightly
> different note — we don’t care for the “computer games” either. Give
> us an old fashioned one-game slot any day. (I guess we must be “old
> fashioned” people; FYI, we are both over 65.)
> We like to stay downtown, especially at the Golden Nugget.
> It is convenient and you get more casinos for the same amount of steps.
> Plus, the Strip is just a few minutes away.
> Keep up the good work, and thank you again.

We did a poll on this about a year ago, but with so many new readers, I’ll do another one. How do you feel about coinless slots? Vote today at http://www.accessvegas.com á!

Gloria Davis wrote:

> Unfortunately I allowed myself to be persuaded to stay at the Riviera
> Hotel while attending a conference in Las Vegas. I will never do that
> again. First there were the long lines at registration. After
> standing there for 45 minutes, I was given a room whose carpet was so
> soiled, I promptly returned to the desk for a reassignment. Guess
> what, another 40 minute wait. The people at the desk were very
> pleasant about the room reassignment and I was given a smoking room,
> had requested nonsmoking, which I did not realize was smoking until I
> reached the room. You guessed right again, I returned to the desk and
> waited in line 45 minutes again. By the time I reached the desk, I
> was not very composed. I know I felt like crying and evidently that
> was noticed. The manager assigned the next room. It was barely
> adequate.
>
> My next fiasco was following through with a recommendation to try the
> buffet at the Stardust. I was very disappointed in the food. It was
> attractively displayed, but lacked flavor.
>
> I like Las Vegas and will return but guess where I will not be staying
> or eating. You guessed it.

Unfortunately, with the volume of people Las Vegas hotels handle, sometimes one has a bad experience. If you don’t get satisfaction at the time, be sure to write the general manager of the hotel when you return home. If you are polite but firm and give solid detail, they will often send you freebies ranging from food to free nights on your next visit.

A couple of years ago, I gave the Stardust daily brunch buffet a nice review here, but they have since discontinued the daily buffet format and the quality has waned. Although are archives at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com and our new show reviews archive at http://www.las-vegas-shows-reviews.com can be a big help, note the date and remember that sometimes things change. Our weekly reviews here are always fresh!

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

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


ONLINE POLL – “How do you feel about coinless slots?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next issue!

Results from last poll: “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?”

No way, no how … it’s a playground for adults. 57%
Only if the kids are teenagers and can enjoy the chaos and 24/7 excitement. 19%
If they are old enough to remember it, bring them. 7%
Las Vegas is a fine place for any family vacation regardless of child age. 15%

FREE CONTEST: Sign up for Weatherbug and get a free trip to Vegas: http://ww2.weatherbug.com/aff/default.asp?zcode=Z3390&DoCheck=True

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

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!

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
June 13, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 23, 2001

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

THIS WEEK’S CITY ON SALE: Las Vegas: Stratosphere from $59.95, Aladdin from $109.95, Hilton Grand Vacations from $69.95, The Hilton from $59.95, and The Orleans $59.95 Click to http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/OnSale?LKF=IVC&SID=IVC

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

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

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

THIS ISSUE: The Truth About Slot Cards, Casino Freebies are not Usually Free


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

WORLD SERIES OF POKER – Carlos Mortensen knows when to hold ’em. The 29-year-old who moved to the United States from Spain a few years ago to play poker professionally won the World Series of Poker tournament Friday night at Binion’s Horseshoe — and a $1.5 million jackpot. Full story at http://www.bergen.com/morenews/poker20200105205.htm and http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/051601.html

WORLD SWIMSUIT – Model Search Finals will have over 60 women compete in what they bill as the “Ultimate Swimsuit Competition.” US and Canadian Finals are Friday, June 1 at 6:00 PM and the World Model Search Finals are Saturday, June 2 at 8: 00 PM. Tickets at (702) 731-7865. Discount Caesars rooms at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Caesars link).

SET TO RETIRE IN VEGAS – Nevada might have to wait a few years before it lives up to its growing reputation as a retirement mecca. Fewer than 10 percent of the state’s booming population are 65 or older, according to 2000 census figures released Friday. However, those aged 45 to 59 nearly doubled their ranks. “The pre-retirees are people moving here for their last job,” said Jeff Hardcastle, state demographer. Full story at http://washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/nation/states/nv/A42254-2001May17.html

FRENCH FRY FUEL – Biodiesel fuel made from recycled cooking oils at casino hotels and restaurants went on sale in Nevada Tuesday, the first public access fueling station in the nation to offer the biodegradable fuel that reduces emissions. Full story at http://abcnews.go.com/sections/us/DailyNews/biodiesel010523.html

AFTERNOON TEA – The Four Seasons (located at the south end of Mandalay Bay — same building) offers English style afternoon tea from 2 – 5 PM daily. At the Verandah, patrons choose from 11 teas that come with a three-tiered serving tray filled with scones, finger sandwiches and pastries. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-16-Wed-2001/living/16029484.html

$100 REBATE SPECTACULAR! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you up to $100 back on any stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. (Full details and list of all eligible cities at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL ). Claiming your cash is simple:

1. Print out: http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/coupon?SID=IVC&Dest=LAS&LKF=IVC&PROD=HOTEL
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!


CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

EFX – I took quite a bit of heat for my unkind review of EFX starring Rick Springfield, but word is that his run will end when his one-year contract is up. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-13-Sun-2001/news/16088379.html and you can read the archived review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/01-03-07.htm

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Fab Four (Las Vegas Hilton) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-18-Fri-2001/weekly/16097002.html
* Paul Anka – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/May-11-Fri-2001/weekly/16011307.html
* Splash (Riviera) – http://www.lvshowbiz.com/current_issue/splash.html

SHOWS, GOLF, DINING:

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

EVENT LISTINGS:

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

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Olio (MGM) – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/2001_05_10/dining_taste.html

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

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

Thursday – 103 ░F / 80 ░F Partly Cloudy
Friday – 100 ░F / 75 ░F Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 99 ░F / 74 ░F Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 96 ░F / 69 ░F Partly Cloudy
Monday – 90 ░F / 69 ░F Partly Cloudy

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

FEATURE STORIES: The Truth About Slot Cards, Casino Freebies are not Usually Free

The Truth About Slot Cards
by Ted Newkirk

Every few weeks, someone writes and asks why I never talk about comps (casino complimentary, i.e., free stuff you get for playing). The answer? For most players, it is simply not worth it. Except for the free drinks when you gamble or asking the pit boss for dinner is you’ve had a long run at the table (I mean 2 hours of heavy play or 4 hours of normal play), the average gambler bringing a few hundred bucks to town is not only going to get next to nothing, but they will be baited to play and lose far more than the comps are worth.

Most casinos track your play with a slot club card. You give them more vital info than you probably feel comfortable parting with, you use the card every time in every machine you play so they can track your every move, and you earn points good for food, gift shop items, and (if you play heavily) rooms.

If you are an average player, you may rack up enough points during your stay for half a buffet or a T-shirt. When you get home, they might send you a couple of buffet coupons or a discount room offer to get you back in on your next visit. (These “special rates” are often on par with the everyday discounts we offer on the very same rooms — our room supplier buys rooms from the hotel in bulk at deep discounts we pass on to you.)

So what’s the problem, you ask?!? The casinos don’t have slot clubs because they are nice people. Casino comps are but a small percentage of the money you are expected to lose “earning” those slot points. We all like to think that we beat the house and got something for free, so these cards actually encourage you to play more than you were planning to. After you’ve started to accumulate points, you end up putting another $20 or $100 in the machine to rack up those few more points needed for a free meal, totally forgetting the fact that the $20 will outright BUY the meal!

Don’t take my word for this or say “Well, that is other people but I manage my money flawlessly.” I recently had a drink with professional gambler Rob Singer, author of The Undeniable Truth About Video Poker. The book as well as his site http://www.vptruth.com are very fresh looks at many of the myths surrounding “beating the house,” especially related to video poker play.

Rob plays with a set financial strategy, and his #1 and only goal is to lock up a certain win on each of his monthly visits. And even HE told me that he’s stopped using slot club cards because of the temptation to deviate from his financial strategy and play just a little more to gain a benefit. If a pro can be tempted, are you going to tell me you can’t?

Don’t get me wrong: If your gambling budget in well into the thousands for each trip, get all the comps you can. In fact, skip the slot club card and ask to speak to a casino host about your gambling budget and what they might do for you.

But for the rest of us, be careful. You are coming here to have fun, and hitting the ATM for the third time in a day subconsciously savoring the free buffet the points are going to “earn” you isn’t fun. And trust me, that buffet comp or T-shirt doesn’t make you look like a high roller in their eyes. You are just another player who got a little extra play out of. Multiply that extra, unplanned play by all the slot club players, and they can well afford to give away a couple bucks worth of food.

Still don’t believe me? Or Rob Singer? Here is an interesting and informative article that came across the gaming wire a couple weeks ago:

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

Casino Freebies are not Usually Free
By Jeffrey Compton

How many times have you heard that “there is no such thing as a free lunch”? So many times that the cliche has lost its meaning. But if you patronize casinos, and receive mail filled with tempting “free offers,” and then act on that mail, i.e., stay in a free room, see a free show or have a free lunch, you will soon find out what free really means.

Here is an example from one of my readers: Dear Jeffrey: Ballys/Paris send us a letter offering three free nights and one for $69. After we arrived and played for several hours, we asked for a meal comp, and were told that there were no comp dollars available in our account until our play covered the cost of the rooms. I thought these rooms were free? WH, Springfield, Il

Before I go any further, let me assure one and all that this situation is not unique to Ballys/Paris, nor their owner Park Place Entertainment, nor happens only to travelers from Springfield. I get at least two “how come free isn’t free” letters a week, as do my fellow gaming writers Bob Dancer, Jean Scott and Anthony Curtis.

Here is how it works: As a player plays (assuming he is using his players club card), he earns both “published” and “discretionary” benefits. At most casinos in America, the published benefits are usually cash rebates (although many local Las Vegas and Midwest Riverboat casinos may also publish free food and room guidelines). Player comps, especially on the Las Vegas Strip, come from the discretionary account administered by the hosts.

Although policies vary (to the point where no two casinos have the same exact policy), many hotels do deduct from the player’s discretionary account any redeemed direct mail room/meal offers, and thus the player’s comp account could be considerably less than zero when they arrive. Some hotels (and hosts) handle this better than others, and find a more diplomatic way to explain it–¡ or tell the customer so little about discretionary comping that the player doesn’t realize what or how his account is charged.

Some casinos do not debit redeemed offers that were sent to fill up rooms during a traditionally slow seasons (early December), and there are still many older casinos that do not track redeemed direct mail offers back to the player account due to either corporate policy or an outdated computer system.

I will anticipate the next questions: “Casinos have been giving out comps both on the casino floor and through direct mail for years. Have they always tracked every freebie back to the customer?”

The answer is no, Bugsy and the boys did not spend two seconds thinking about player comps after they gave them out. Most decisions were done based on their best recollection of the player’s action (i.e. seat of the pants decision) and their daily mood. In the last few years, however, several developments have led casinos to keep track of the giveaways.

Casinos hold back a lot less money than they once did. Due to increased competition as well as increased player knowledge, player holds have dropped dramatically over the last twenty years. It was easy to be Santa Claus when you had a new sack of money coming in every day, but todayÆs casinos really have to work to make a buck.

Casinos are no longer one-man (or one-gang) operations. You can count the number of privately owned Nevada casinos on two hands, and even they have to report to their lenders. The rest have stockholders and investment bankers who are not thrilled about runaway “player reinvestment” expenses.

Players are more comp aggressive. My grandfather’s generation was brought up to never ask for a free meal, but most of us players have gotten over that stigma. Several recent books, most notably the Frugal Gambler by Jean Scott and Comp City by Max Rubin, have done an excellent job in converting once docile gamblers into aggressive comp consumers.

Computerization is everywhere. Whatever the reasons casinos had for making the comp process more accountable, it could not be done without computers, which get better and cheaper every year. It is my guess that within the next few years, they will know exactly how many free drinks I consume per hour of play ¡ and that is no joke.

So what should players do when they get a “free” offer in the mail? If they like to play at the casino, then by all means enjoy it, but realize that the offer was sent for a reason (hint: they want you to play the games) and if they do not get that result, you will not be getting any more freebies.

“Casino Freebies are not Usually Free Copyright” copyright May 11, 2001 lasvegas.com Gaming Wire Used with permission


EDITOR’S NOTE: People had a lot to say about the “Kids in Vegas” letters printed a few weeks ago. While I can’t print every letter I receive, I always print a representative sample of all opinions expressed. Letters that contain good writing style (paragraphs, punctuation, no ALL CAPS, etc.) have a better chance of getting published. I’ll have comments and answers at the end. Don’t forget to vote in this week’s poll “Should people bring kids to Las Vegas?” at http://www.accessvegas.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

John Krogh wrote:

> I found it amusing the two responses you published were both
> advocating keeping “kids” out of Las Vegas. Especially in light of
> the fact that Las Vegas has spent millions to promote itself as a
> “family vacation site.” Granted, I think that was a mistake, and I
> think Las Vegas has finally realized it was a mistake also. But
> nonetheless, with a family image being promoted by the city, how on
> earth could anyone be upset when families show up?
>
> Second, this is a city that is supported, in fact is built on tourism.
> When the strip fills up with people, why is anyone surprised at jay
> walking or people trying to beat the light? It comes with the
> territory. I don’t know how things are in Nevada, but in California
> and other states, a pedestrian caught in a crosswalk who’s light as
> changed against him/her, ALWAYS has the right of way.
>
> Finally, in a more serious vein, the intolerance expressed by both
> parties is disturbing. The Taxi cab driver who thinks a red/green
> light is the only rule, and the parent, who by pushing an infant is
> immune to the color of the light. The purpose of the “lights,” the
> crosswalk, the “rules” is to try and keep one another from being hurt,
> not to encourage it.

Glenn Burton wrote:

> All this noise directed against parents who take children to Las Vegas
> seems overblown to me. Don’t the casinos spend billions constructing
> attractions aimed at families with children? I doubt if die-hard
> gamblers go to Las Vegas for the Circus or the roller coasters.
>
> Isn’t Las Vegas being billed in the media as a “new” family
> destination? We’ve all read that there are many activities in Las
> Vegas suitable for children and that the prices are subsidized by
> gamblers … so why be surprised when people respond to the hype and
> come? Many of these parents who bring children to Las Vegas are
> probably on their first trip to Las Vegas and have no idea what the
> city is like. Some may not plan on gambling at all.
>
> I suggest that if you want to be angry at someone about bringing
> children to Las Vegas, direct your anger to the casino owners who are
> marketing their product to families and not against the families who
> respond.

Jack Hart (who originally wrote the letter about his experience with his young son in Las Vegas) wrote:

> Your readers comments to my letter, (subject — taxi drivers), printed
> in Access Vegas News attacked me for being in Las Vegas with my
> children. I would appreciate a rebuttal to comments made by R. Hirst
> and Mr. and Mrs. Cook of Calgary. First of all the issue had to do with
> vehicular intimidation by taxi drivers. Hirst called me a dimwit and
> an irresponsible parent. The Cook’s said they were “tired of being
> run over by strollers.” Their verbal attack and attitude displayed
> was ridiculous to say the least. These people are old people that
> should be the ones to stay away from Las Vegas. Keeping my children
> away with baby sitters is there answer to being run over by taxi
> drivers? What’s wrong with these people? I hope there are a better
> caliber of visitors to Las Vegas than these people.
> Please let R. Hirst know that he/she is not alone in his/her remarks
> about kids in Las Vegas (or any other gambling Mecca)!

J. Clayton wrote:

> We were in both Las Vegas and Laughlin some weeks ago. While in
> Laughlin, we stopped in at Burger King’s restaurant (in a corner of
> the Flamingo Hilton casino floor) at about 11:30PM to grab a Coke and
> some fries. As one would surmise, the place was the usual late night
> air full of smoke. … and even though I no longer smoke, I really
> don’t particularly care. However, a young couple with a literally
> ‘brand new’ baby (my ‘Better-Half’ guessed the age at less than a
> month) was sitting in the restaurant. Shortly after we arrived, they
> finished their meal and wandered (child in mother’s arms… carrier
> on father’s arm) off onto the casino floor to the slots.
>
> Question: What in the (expletive deleted!) are parents doing with a
> baby of that age up at that hour in a casino designed for adults?!
>
> You are absolutely right, R. Hirst, that people are trying to bend
> the adult playground of the World into a Disneyland for families! (As
> a matter of fact, I don’t even think kids can really get all of the
> fun out of the REAL Disneyland like adults can! …smiles!).

Kimberly Byers wrote:

> I have kids ranging in ages from 10 yrs to 19 yrs. We have been going to
> Las Vegas once a year for the past 5 years. Before you start slamming
> all parents and banning families maybe you should consider this. I have
> always taught my kids to respect the adult environment. They move
> quickly through casinos and only to go to the room or to eat. I realize
> this is not true with all kids but in this case it is. No one ever
> argues over who has to “watch” the kids. It is my pleasure. I never
> pretend its a family vacation. I make it one. Who are you to decide for
> me. I am glad to have these times with them and not leaving them at
> home. I’m glad your kids are grown and now you can enjoy yourselves. I
> am enjoying myself now. I dread the day when mine are gone! I’m not
> trying to be a goody goody. I drink a bit, I love to gamble and I also
> love being a mom. Too bad other people haven’t learned to incorporate
> families and kids into the real world. Don’t feel sorry for me. If it
> were up to me I would ban smokers and opinionated S.O.B. but then I
> would feel sorry for you.

Dean Di Mascio of Philadelphia, PA wrote”

> Dear Ted…. I very much enjoy reading your newsletter, a job well done!
> However, I’m becoming upset with the suggestion(s) by the many
> writers who say “if you have kids stay away from Las Vegas.” My wife,
> daughter (16) and I are big fans of Disney world, vacations and travel
> in general. We will be visiting Las Vegas in August and are looking
> forward to it. moreover, with all of the themed venues, attractions
> and natural settings and restaurants why should we not think of Las
> Vegas as a “family” detestation? I have an itinerary for our visit and
> it does not even include gaming. Although (smile) I’m sure my wife and
> I will lose some money in the casinos! But to those who wish to cling
> to the “old Las Vegas,” give it up I say. Like it or not Las Vegas
> has changed. Opened up to embrace families as well as
> “couples.”

Raymond Buchmueller wrote:

> Last year we took along our 6 and 8 year old to Vegas. We all had a
> great time. Just ask them where they want to go next holidays!
> Vegas. We just found that most Hotels buffet, the kids paid the same
> price was very unfair. How can a 45lb. kid pay the same price like a
> 250lb adult. Hats off to Luxor, and also Mirage. Maybe someone can
> let me know if other hotel have discount for kid on there buffet.

Rob McLeod of Calgary, Alberta wrote.

> We took our three boys (8, 10 and 12) to Vegas in May 1999 for 4
> nights. Contrary to most letters I have seen we had a good time with
> the kids. We stayed at Mandalay Bay and enjoyed the pool, lazy river,
> etc. We saw the Caesar’s Magical Empire which we all really enjoyed,
> spent a day at Circus Circus Adventuredome and a half day at
> Excalibur. On top of that we saw the volcano, pirate ship, the Coke
> museum, the Dive restaurant, the Luxor motion simulator ride, New York
> amusement area, etc., etc. The wife and I saw “Mystere” — we left the
> kids with the Aunt. I still got in 24 hours of gaming, we won’t talk
> about the net result.
>
> In my opinion, taking kids under 6 would pose problems. They need to
> be able to listen (“stay out of the casinos” and “don’t take the
> hooker magazines from the street vendors”) and be able to walk lots.
> But we had fun and would do it again.
>
> Great newsletter — keep it up! We will be there again, this time at
> the Luxor, no kids this time.

Las Vegas has not marketed itself as a family destination for years. This is a common misconception kept alive by bad comics and media reporters who have not done much homework. Only Circus Circus still “caters” to families to some extent although the company’s to most recent properties (Mandalay Bay and Luxor) are mostly adult-oriented.

In the early 90’s, casinos thought it would be a great idea to build theme parks and try to turn the town’s image from “sin city” to “family friendly.” Then they realized that they GOOFED because families take advantage of gaming-subsidized lower prices while children cut into the parent’s gambling time. Not cutting kids a break on buffets is just one subtle way many casinos are retracting the welcome mat from children.

Bellagio won’t allow children under 18 to enter the property unless they are guests. Hotels like the Riviera and Tropicana have used advertising slogans like “Where Adults Play” and “Rollers, Not Strollers” in the past couple of years. The MGM has taken out their theme park to build more convention space, suites and a Marriott hotel. If this seems extreme, note that children are not even allowed to enter casinos in Atlantic City.

I don’t have a particular agenda here. I sell rooms, not blackjack. If anything, a family makes me more commission, because they need two rooms or pay the extra that most hotels charge for more than two to a room. However, I’ve seen far too many little kids being pushed around late at night or in the hot sun, and these parents don’t look like they are having much fun. If you have young kids, you might consider leaving them with Grandma and spend a wonderful, relaxing, romantic time with your wife here in Las Vegas.

At the very least, consider not bring children until they are old enough to enjoy the experience and you are prepared to forgo the party / romance atmosphere that Las Vegas is now selling unless the children are in their teens and old enough to strike out on their own much of the time.

Don’t forget to vote in this week’s poll “Should people bring kids to Las Vegas?” at http://www.accessvegas.com

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

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


ONLINE POLL – “Should people bring their kids to Las Vegas?” Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last poll: “What is your favorite view of Las Vegas?”

Stratosphere Tower 47%
Rio Voodoo Cafe / Lounge 24%
Paris Eiffel Tower 15%
Binion’s Ranch Steakhouse 7%
Polo Towers Lounge 5%

FREE CONTEST:

VEGAS FAMILY REUNION: Go to http://www.emsiweb.com/l.asp?c=atf&r=afri1&i=1633917&s=61 for your chance to win a Family Reunion weekend for up to 100 of your family & friends at your choice of locations in the U.S. (restrictions apply).

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

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!

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2001 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
May 23, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 11, 2001

Posted on by

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

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

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

* Discount Hotel Rooms : http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm
* Discount Rental Cars: http://www.travelnow.com/cars/search.jsp?cid=2005
* Best Tours/Rates for Grand Canyon, Hoover, more: http://www.accessvegas.com/tours
* Airline Tickets, Specials: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Featured Travel Deals: http://www.accessvegas.com/traveldeals.htm

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

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

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

This Issue: Jimmy Hopper

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 (click) mailto: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!

EDITORS NOTE: It looks like last week’s $100 Suggestion Contest generated a healthy response. The deadline just ended so this week we’ll be taking our time to carefully review each one before selecting a winner. Also, some of you have noticed that our concerts and events pages (noted every week in the middle of the newsletter) are behind in getting updated. We have reassigned that task and things should be back up to speed in the next 7-10 days.

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

CHEAPER VEGAS VACATION? – Airline service to Las Vegas continues to grow, but weekend room rates at Strip hotels are showing their first decline in months, a precursor to weakening demand in the leisure travel industry. Good news for those of you who have cut back on your visits due to high hotel and air costs. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-23-Fri-2001/business/15700408.html and this week’s poll at http://www.accessvegas.com asks you if you are planning to visit Las Vegas less often in light of the soft economy.

CAPS – stands for Certified Airline Passenger Services and it is a service that let’s you check your bags in and get your boarding pass for flights on eight airlines serving Las Vegas at Aladdin, Bally’s, Bellagio, Flamingo, Imperial Palace, Las Vegas Hilton, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, Paris, Riviera, Sahara and the Stardust.

NEW AIRLINE? – Billionaire financier Carl Icahn, who owns the Stratosphere, Arizona Charlie’s and Arizona Charlie’s East in Las Vegas failed in his bid to buy TWA, an airline he once owned. He is now talking about taking the $400 million of the money he was going to spend on acquiring TWA to start a low fare airline serving Las Vegas. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-23-Fri-2001/business/15708303.html

COURT TV – ironically isn’t available on basic cable here but a recent string of notorious “true life crime story” trials centered in Las Vegas have made the Clark County courthouse downtown a stop for visitors wanting to see the action live. Story at http://www.courttv.com/trials/rudin/040901-side_ctv.html

THE MONEY AND THE POWER – The new book by Sally Denton and Roger Morris is said to read like a novel while it chronicles the rise of Las Vegas and digs up the real dirt on many who are purported to have made the city great over the years. Story at http://www.latimes.com/living/20010410/t000030446.html and the book is available at discount from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1886161208/invegascom

GOLF – We’ve got golf! You can now view the prices of and reserve tee times online in advance of your visit for many area golf courses at http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5

CHEAP HOUSING – is becoming a thing of the past in Las Vegas. The average Las Vegas family makes about $51,000 a year, and yet the average home price in Las Vegas has jumped to $140,000 which is higher than the average home price in Phoenix. Story at http://www.azcentral.com/business/0328afford28.html

URBAN RENEWAL? – The City of Las Vegas owns 61 acres of prime real estate in the heart of the city (just west of Fremont St. Experience downtown) and have been accepting various proposals on what to do with it. They range from a movie studio to building the world’s tallest building. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Mar-09-Fri-2001/news/15605112.html In a related story, Race Rock “Supercharged” Restaurant has closed downtown. They are unable to sustain continued losses while waiting for Neonopolis and other downtown redevelopment to be completed but they hope to open back up in 2002. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-10-Tue-2001/news/15838678.html

LIVING TO GAMBLE? – Station Casinos CFO Glenn Christenson notes: “Well over 50 percent of the adult population of Las Vegas lives within a three-mile radius of one of our properties,” and with Las Vegans spending an estimated $1.8 billion on their hometown pastime, he doesn’t need out-of-towners to boost the bottom line. “People here have pretty high propensity for gambling or they wouldn’t be living here in the first place,” he said. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/cbsmw/010404/03/diligence-station-casinos

RETIRE TO VEGAS – About 20 percent of Clark County’s 1.4 million people are 55 and older, attracted by the world-class restaurants, entertainment and warm climate. Nevada’s favorable tax structure is also a draw. By living in Nevada, retirees avoid state income taxes, inheritance taxes and gift taxes. (Of course, that savings probably ends up in slot machines!) Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-05-Thu-2001/business/15801712.html

PONDERING GAMBLING – Howard Schwartz, the marketing director of the Gambler’s Book Club in Las Vegas recently wrote an interesting column called “Ten Gambling Questions Worth Pondering” at http://www.casinogaming.com/columnists/shelf/032801.html

VIVA LAS VEGAS – With the Ocean’s Eleven film remake well underway, word is out that Ricky Martin and Jennifer Lopez might star in a remake of Viva Las Vegas. Full story on both at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-06-Fri-2001/news/15791660.html

HOTEL SPECIAL – Book The Sahara online from $55.95 per night Sun-Thurs. for stay 4/08/01-4/30/01. Limited Availability so check rates and gook at http://www.accessvegas.com/hotels/sahara-hotel-las-vegas-room-reservations.htm

$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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

STORM – The new Latin-themed show which features aerial acts and actual rain (onstage) and light snow (in the audience) is finally slated to debut April 18, 2001, at Mandalay Bay.

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Showgirls of Magic (San Remo) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-06-Fri-2001/weekly/15793235.html

SHOWS – See which shows are playing during your stay and book reservations EVEN if the tickets aren’t on sale yet. Let ShowVegas takes care of all your needs directly online! Search by dates at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1

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

DINING RESERVATIONS – For a small service fee, you can now guarantee reservations for that “special night out” during your visit at http://www.bookvegasdining.com/dvpricing.cfml?amid=143&cscheme=5

GOLF RESERVATIONS – http://www.bookvegasteetimes.com/gvpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=5

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Commander’s Palace (Desert Passage @ Aladdin) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Apr-06-Fri-2001/weekly/15785264.html

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

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

Wednesday – 65 ░F / 49 ░F ░F Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 64 ░F / 47 ░F Partly Cloudy
Friday – 74 ░F / 50 ░F Mostly Sunny
Saturday – 78 ░F / 54 ░F Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 84 ░F / 58 ░F Mostly Sunny

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

FEATURE STORY: Jimmy Hopper

Because of the amount of news and letters this week, we’ll go back to full reviews next week. Coming reviews here: Excalibur Tournament of Kings (fun for those who like horses, action, getting a little rowdy, medieval stuff, or to take the kids to), Second City Comedy Troupe at Flamingo (very funny comedy and worth seeing, which for me is saying something because I’m not much for improv), Skintight at Harrah’s (One hour and 15 minutes solid of topless women and nearly nude guys) and more. To hold you over, here’s a short on one of Las Vegas’ most talented up-and-coming performers.

JIMMY HOPPER – We caught Jimmy Hopper last week at one of his shows in Bellagio’s Fontana Room. If you haven’t seen this act yet, you are missing out. He’s not a “lounge singer” but a full-fledged musical showman putting his own stamp on standards, pop, and rock hits in an energetic fashion. Jimmy has sung the national anthem at major sports events, performed at major political functions, and composed commercials and music for major corporations.

He plays Bellagio’s Fontana room (schedule at http://www.jimmyhopper.com/perform.htm), which I consider to be the best intimate room in town to see music with plush surroundings and view of the Strip over the lake. The price is right: two drink minimum so catch him before he’s a main showroom draw at headliner prices.

We have two copies of his latest CD “Live in LV” to give away in our contests section. You can read more about Hopper, download a free MP3 of one of this songs, or order his CD’s at http://www.jimmyhopper.com Bring them to his show and he’s happy to sign them and pose for photos.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

EDITORS NOTE: The “smoking in casinos question” brought a record number of responses to our poll (results listed later in the newsletter) as well as email. I need to move on, so I can’t print additional letters but this is obviously something people feel strongly about on both sides of the issue. For the record, new casinos have made clean air a top priority. Bellagio has an air system where ALL air introduced into the casino is taken from outside the building and then heated or cooled. No air is recirculated.

I once read something interesting in a “How To Win At Blackjack” book which I have taken to heart: if you are winning and someone next to you starts to smoke, deal with it as long as you are winning. It’s a small price to pay. If you are losing, you should be leaving that table or machine anyway and you can usually find a table or machine somewhere else where the air is cleaner.

Gloria wrote:

> We have just returned from a week in Vegas. Did we have
> a good time? Yes, but Las Vegas is now going the way of
> all other resorts areas. I go to gamble and enjoy the
> weather, nothing else. Times are changing, Vegas no
> longer cares or needs to have us there. At one time
> this was a reasonably priced vacation. You got a break
> on the room OR the food OR the airfare OR the gaming,
> which gave you the money to gamble more. Now all
> aspects of Vegas are squeezing you dry. Is it worth
> going back, probably, but instead of our usual 2 wks a
> year, we are now thinking of 4 days there and several
> day trips to casinos near by. Is this a loss to Vegas?
> No, they have plenty of people from around the world
> willing to pay what ever they ask, and take the rudeness
> and don’t bother me attitude as they take our money.
>
> Thanks for listening, guess I just needed to vent a
> little. Gloria

Guess what — I agree with you! Room rates are starting to drop because of the soft economy and people like yourself who don’t come to have their wallet hijacked. Even though my income is off a little because of the cheaper rates (I make a commission when you book through the links in our newsletter just like a travel agent does, so lower rates equal less money), if that brings rates and service that will bring people like you back more often, I’ll grin and bear it. BTW, you will find our guaranteed low rates often beat the rates the hotels quote you directly.

Rayn of Rego Park, NY wrote:
>
> My wife and I are hoping to return to Las Vegas this summer. On our
> last trip, we flew with National Airlines, and we loved it. Now I
> hear that they are having some severe financial problems. While they
> have filed for protection against their creditors, they are still
> operating as before. Do you think it is safe to book summer flights
> with National now, or will they go out of business?

National appears pretty strong, and I personally would use them if they served the destinations I frequent. They are reorganizing, continuing to advertise (companies almost out of business usually get refused when they try to buy advertising), and have solid leadership, a fantastic maintenance and safety record, and (unlike most airlines) are flying a relatively new fleet of planes. Having said that, I must note that those are personal opinions. I have no stock or stake in the airline. If using a travel business that is under bankruptcy reorganization concerns you, use another carrier.

Allen Goenawein wrote:

> This is my first issue of your newsletter and I found
> it “right to the point, with no holds barred.” I have
> spent a couple of hours reading different articles and
> have enjoyed everything. I just returned from Vegas two
> days ago (one of 7 or 8 trips I make a year). My wife
> has always wanted to see EFX and almost talked me into
> it and after reading your review, I’m really glad we
> did not go. Our favorite show is Lord of the Dance.
> Compared with the prices they get for some of the
> other shows, it is a real bargain. Keep sending the
> weekly letter, it is really enjoyable.

Thanks for the kind words. EFX still has some strong points, which I noted. Since I’m not a snotty “critic” with a huge artistic performance background and my income comes from hotel room commissions from our travel links, my aim is to give you the honest scoop so you can tell if a show suits your interests. (I mention that on a regular basis for the benefit of the hundreds of new readers we pick up each week.)

Sue Entwistle from Wisconsin wrote:

> Good Morning! My husband and I just returned from a very enjoyable
> five day stay in Vegas. We were married at the Little Church of the
> West 12 years ago, and return every March and have also come back in
> October for the past five years. We’re always looking for something
> new to do, and this time went to see Steve Wyrick
> (magician / illusionist). We ordered our tickets about 6 weeks in
> advance and were in the front row! But at the Saturday 10:00 P.M.
> show, only about 75 people were in the audience. What’s up with that?
> Although Steve is very personable and several of his acts were
> excellent, we didn’t feel it was worth the price! I was wondering if
> you have reviewed any of the helicopter companies. We would like to
> take a helicopter trip into the Grand Canyon next time we come to Las
> Vegas. Thanks…….and we sure enjoy your newsletter!

Wyrick has drawn very mixed reviews, and we have been put off by his PR company as far as coming and seeing his show. I can only think it is because the show (from what I hear) is still very much a work in progress. That is precisely why I have not reviewed or given it much mention yet. Try Lance Burton next time — for a few more bucks, he provides a little more “bang.”

This summer, I am going to start reviewing some tours (especially the ones that we offer). For what it is worth, spend the extra money on a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon if at all possible. Avoid the bus trips at all costs — you spend most of your day on the bus. The air trips are better but you still fly high above the Canyon. The helicopter tours generally not only get you close to the canyon for spectacular views as well as much closer to the scenery on the way over and back, but many land right in the bottom of the Canyon for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Jim Swain of Luton, Beds, United Kingdom wrote:

> Thought I’d drop a mail to say thanks for the great newsletter. My
> wife and I got married at the MGM Grand on Valentine’s Day 1996 – it
> was our first visit to Las Vegas and got us well and truly hooked. We
> have been back another 4 times since — the latest being Valentine’s Day
> this year and we hope to return again in August/September.
>
> However finding a reasonable price for a flight in from the UK is
> proving difficult. Even booking this far ahead we cannot find a price
> lower than 600GBP (approx. USD 950) per person. If you or other readers
> have found lower prices than this or can recommend a booking agent
> could you send details to me at (click) mailto:chiltern@nildram.co.uk or
> (click) mailto:j.swain1@ntlword.com. Thanks in advance.

We certainly hope you check out travel partner air rates at http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm but unlike our main hotel travel partner, they don’t offer guaranteed low airfare so shop around.

Bob & Cindy Sobczak wrote:

> Saw the Blue Man Group
> Monday, March 26, 7 PM show, it was great. Had the
> perfect seats, center mezz. row qq seats 47 & 48 dead
> center stage, second row in the mezz. The music is very
> loud and for those who might be sensitive, I suggest
> ear plugs I had some for my wife and they helped. Also
> don’t forget your camera. Although you can’t take
> pictures during the show, the Blue Men will be in the
> lobby after the show and pose with you for
> pictures. Also buy your tickets at least 2 weeks before
> you get to Vegas or you will be sorry as were a lot
> of people who could not get tickets for the 6 days we
> were there.

Blue Man, as well as “O” and Mystere are very hot tickets and we suggest purchasing your tickets at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=3230&cscheme=1 as far in advance as the site will let you (different shows have different maximum purchase dates). The service fee charged is well worth guaranteeing seeing that special show while you are here!

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

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

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

FREE CONTEST:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. 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.

JIMMY HOPPER CD’S – We have two Jimmy Hopper CD’s to give away (see story earlier in newsletter for Jimmy Hopper info). We’ll give them to the 20’th and 40’th entries to (contest closed)

ONLINE POLL – The Las Vegas Sun recently published an article at http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/gaming/2001/feb/26/511485671.html asking people if the slower economy is going to curtail their Las Vegas trips. This week’s question is “Are you rethinking your Las Vegas vacation plans in light of the economy”? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from our last poll “How do you feel about smoking in casinos?”

Casinos should be forced to have nonsmoking areas. 27%
It should be banned. 22%
If I can’t smoke while I gamble, forget it. 17%
I don’t smoke, but Vegas is about freedom to do what you want. 15%
I’d use nonsmoking areas, but they shouldn’t be mandatory. 11%
I smoke, but I can hold back while I gamble. 5%

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

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!

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
April 11, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – January 17, 2001

Posted on by

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in 45 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free and only sent to those who request it. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in its entirely. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to newsletter@las-vegas-news-reviews.com

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

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

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

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

HOTEL SPECIAL – Harrah’s Las Vegas from $59.95 a night! This deluxe casino hotel is located in the heart of the strip across from Mirage and Caesar’s Palace. Some of the features include a state of the art fitness center with sauna, Olympic size pool, whirlpool and much more. This rate is subject to limited availability and is subject to change without notice. To view more information, Click Here: http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

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

This Issue: De La Guarda

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


 

 

EDITORS NOTE: It was an interesting week in Las Vegas, with two straight days of rain and one lucky $9 million Megabucks winner. Despite a match that is failing to draw intense interest, SuperBowl weekend is shaping up to be as huge as ever so make sure you check out our link to the updated listings. Also, if you enjoy this newsletter, please take a few seconds and rate us at http://www.ezine-dir.com/cgi-bin/links/rate.cgi?ID=93

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

SURVIVOR – A handful of local hotels have placed odds on who will win the new round of the CBS television show Survivor. The odds are for entertainment only, since Nevada law prohibits taking bets on events with a known outcome (which explains why you can’t bet wrestling, something that is frequently asked). Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-10-Wed-2001/news/15190913.html

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING – Visitors and new residents are sometimes surprised to discover that you can ski and snowboard an hour from Las Vegas on beautiful Mt. Charleston. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-09-Tue-2001/living/15120727.html

SIEGFRIED & ROY – are rumored to be on the verge of signing a “lifetime” contract with the Mirage that will let them finish out their careers at the hotel that brought them their present wealth and fame. Story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-15-Mon-2001/news/15228696.html

HOT SPRINGS – About an hour east of town is a scenic and reasonable secluded area with two springs that well out of the desert. Full story and map at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-07-Sun-2001/living/15131923.html

ART BELL – The infamous late night talk host returns to the airwaves Feb. 5, broadcasting from his remote house in Pahrump, NV (about an hour west of Las Vegas). His show is heard on over 400 stations nationwide (you can’t flip around the AM dial late night without hearing him on 2-3 frequencies) and the show returns to flagship station KDWN 720 AM here in Las Vegas. KDWN is one of the many Las Vegas stations you can listen to online. We have a full list at http://www.accessvegas.com/tvradio.htm

NOT SMOG – That brown haze that hangs over Las Vegas is dust kicked up from the desert. It isn’t pretty, and we are in EPA violation over it. The desert is a naturally dusty environment and the onslaught of new construction kicks it up at a ferocious rate. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-13-Sat-2001/news/15221246.html

NEW YEARS EVE PHOTOS – It appears some people were confused and assumed that the five example photos were the only photos we posted. If you didn’t see all 30 photos, the photo tour starts at http://www.las-vegas-new-years-eve.com/01.htm

REGIS – broadcasts his show from The Rio this week (Tuesday – Friday). Check local listings for show times and channels.

MEGABUCKS HIT – at Harrah’s for $9 million. A US Airways flight attendant decided to do some gambling on her layover and made it a very profitable one. Full story at http://www.casinowire.com/archive/200101/2212.shtml

$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!


 

 

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Legends of Comedy – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-12-Fri-2001/weekly/15173462.html

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

SuperBowl – More hotels have listed their SuperBowl parties. List at http://www.lasvegas.com/events/superbowl2001

Drew Carey’s Improv All Stars – comes to the MGM Jan. 25-28. Live performances on Jan. 27 will air live on Pay Per View. Tickets are $85 inclusive and on sale at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-strip-hotels.htm (MGM link).

Headliners – The following headliners have been added to our Shows and Headliners page at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm : Don Rickles, George Carlin, Rodney Dangerfield, Carrot Top, Englebert Humperdink, Tom Jones, and David Copperfield.

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Florida Cafe (Howard Johnson’s Strip) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2001/Jan-03-Wed-2001/living/15095704.html

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

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

Friday – 54/36 Mostly Cloudy
Saturday – 54/34 Mostly Cloudy
Sunday – 62/33 Partly Cloudy
Monday – 62/32 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 62/33 Partly Cloudy

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

FEATURE STORY: De La Guarda

de-la-guarda-rio.jpg (12198 bytes)DE LA GUARDA – This new show at The Rio defies all description, but I’m going to try! The show combines elements of carnival, rave, concert and theater. There is no dialogue, no star, and NO SEATS! Instead, the action and performers fly over your head in a loosely choreographed display. Later in the show, the cast actually mingles in the audience encouraging general happy excitement and dancing. Confetti, balloons, and manufactured rain contribute to the controlled and very entertaining chaos.

Most of the show takes place over your head. You walk into a dark theater surrounded in black with a paper ceiling over your head. The paper covers the entire show area, and is backlit to provide a unique landscape that lets the cast and technicians use sight and sound creating a buildup to a show that explodes from the sky.

The free flowing show uses electronic music and live vocal chants to stimulate the ears as a sharp contrast to the primal basics of water, balloons, unusual lighting variety and the human form to pleasure the eyes.

The beauty of the show is that you can make it out to be whatever you want. You can stand at the edge of the action and just take it all in (keeping clean and dry) or you can surge to the center of the crowd and dance in rave fashion soaking in the “rain” and excitement. While not sexual in nature, it is primal and stretches your imagination. It is for the young or young at heart and requires an open mind. If you still enjoy a good rollercoaster ride, you will probably enjoy this show.

De La Guarda plays Tuesday – Saturday at 9:00 PM with an additional Saturday night show at 11:30 PM. Tickets are $45 plus tax and available by calling 702-252-7776 Casual attire is encouraged.

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jean Haka of Waukesha WI wrote:

>Hi Ted!!!
>
>Just a short note today on our wonderful New Years Las Vegas
>experience!á We arrived in Las Vegas on December 30 from the snowy
>Midwest — were happy to just to be in the warmest place in the nation
>for over New Year’s!á Yes, and we broke the rules and brought our 2
>kids along, but both are teens / almost teens and have been to Las Vegas
>before.á (Also, being an airline employee, they’re used to traveling
>and have been to Vegas 2 times before). I was prepared for massive
>crowds and waits to play the slot machines etc., but I was surprised
>that I could get to almost any slot that I wanted, the crowds didn’t
>overwhelm us and we had a great time!á We stayed at the Flamingo which
>worked out well especially on the night of New Year’s Eve.á Whenever
>we go with the kids, it is a different type of vacation than when just
>the hubby and myself go — visited Madame T’ s Celebrity “Wax”
>Encounter — it is amazing!!!á Also went to the top of the Stratosphere
>with the kids — well worth it!á Did the malls at Venetian and MGM, too.
>Had a great time!á The night of the fireworks we started out down by
>the Luxor — thinking that it would be less crowded down there and a
>better view up the strip.á We decided to relocate closer to our hotel
>about 10 PM and took the monorail back to Bally’s.á We ended up
>standing in front of Ballys in the plaza area with some other local
>families with kids, too.á There were a ton of police and security all
>over — so we all felt safe.á We did NOT venture out onto the street
>itself, which was closed and packed with people–mostly the
>twenty-somethings and all having a great time!á We enjoyed the
>fireworks — it was great to be part of the biggest party in the world
>for New Year’s Eve for the REAL millennium and the kids really enjoyed
>it, too!á Then we just had to fight the crowds going across the street
>and back to our hotel and get an elevator up to our room along with
>the hundreds of others all doing the same thing!á We returned back to
>the snowy mid-west on January 3 — I’d say that by Jan.á2 almost half
>of the original NY Eve guests were gone–but some were starting to
>come in for the big electronics convention the following weekend.á I
>was amazed that when we were walking back to the Flamingo after the
>fireworks had ended how many of the crowd were walking down the street
>back to cars etc. — I’d say that over 50% of the crowd was walking away
>from the strip!!!á (Does anyone stay in California to celebrate the
>holidays — do they all come to Las Vegas?) But over-all it was great!
>I’d do it again — with or without the kids!

Glad you had a great time. There isn’t anywhere quite like Las Vegas for New Year’s Eve! My continued strong warnings about bringing children to Las Vegas aren’t anti-child or meant to be a blanket statement. It is a warning for first-time visitors under the false impression that this is a family town. While Las Vegas was only marketed as a family destination for a couple of years in the early 90’s, the general media continues to perpetuate the myth.

Many of our readers are gleaning information for their first ever visit and to them I continue to advise coming without the children. After a visit, you can then decide if your children’s ages and interests are conducive to what Las Vegas has to offer, and more importantly, if you are willing to think about the arrangements ahead of time so that both parents have the time to gamble if they wish.

Ken Armstrong of Ontario, Canada wrote:

>Look forward very much to your newsletter.á We have been to Vegas each
>year for the past eleven years & booked our trip for this year today.
>We have always stayed at the Stardust as we bring other couples with
>us and they find it easy to find their way around there.á Good
>location, nice clean rooms, good restaurants & the new buffet is
>great.á We liked the old Warehouse (buffet) but things change.á The staff at
>the stardust are all just great people.á My question is regarding the
>Frontier hotel. On our last visit there was talk of a new building
>replacing it & as I check construction news etc., I find no mention of
>it.áPerhaps you can help.áKeep up the good work & thanks for
>keeping people informed.

Plans to remodel or implode the Frontier were put on hold a few months ago in light of a softening economy and tighter financing market.

Mark Basingstoke of Hants, England wrote:

>ááááááááááááááááááá I have been receiving your news letter for over a
>year now and think the content and advice you give is first class.á I
>went to Vegas for the first time in Jan. last year for 4 days and I was
>hooked.á We then went for 10 days in Sept which was absolutely
>fantastic, I just love the place.á My girlfriend and I are planning
>another 2 or 3 breaks there year.á One will be New Years Eve (enjoyed
>your photo’s) we cannot make up our mind about other times.á Do they
>have any major celebration’s for 4th July as this is one time we are
>thinking of coming over.á Keep up the excellent work.

New Year’s Eve is unique in the total closing down of The Strip, and this is the first time in over a decade that there have been fireworks (although talk is strong of making it a yearly tradition). American holidays like July 4’th, Memorial Day, Labor Day, et. al. are just very, very crowded and expensive weekends. While Las Vegas has a number of July 4’th fireworks displays, the only one near The Strip has been at the Stratosphere, and not the overwhelming type of display we had on New Year’s. With the exception of New Year’s, I’d plan your vacation away from the crowded holiday weekends.

Wendy Prior wrote:

>I would just like to write and thank you for the comprehensive news
>bulletin on Las Vegas and for all the hard work you so readily put in.
>Again this is greatly appreciated.
>
>I will be visiting Las Vegas in the first week of June and your
>bulletin has allowed us to obtain the optimum stay.

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

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 money were no object, which high end show would you go see? Let’s hear your opinion at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. 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.

Weatherbug – Download Weatherbug and you are entered to win a free Las Vegas vacation when you register. Weatherbug is a great program that give you up-to-the-second updates on the weather conditions in your area using the same weather stations the TV news uses. More info at http://ww2.weatherbug.com/aff/default.asp?zcode=Z3390&DoCheck=True

Free Helicopter Tour – Win a Free Las Vegas “Strip” Helicopter flight for two. Enter at http://www.maverickhelicopter.com/enter.htm

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

AIRFARE SPECIALS – This area will appear whenever we come across airlines offering Las Vegas specials. We can’t sell you a room unless you can get here! Please remember (as with any special), fares are restricted and subject to availability:

Vanguard Air – Is returning to serving the Las Vegas market on April 1 with fare specials. Check http://www.flyvanguard.com/pressreleasedetail.asp?ID=148 for details

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

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!

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

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.
January 17, 2001 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 8, 2000

Posted on by

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.

This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Click here http://www.recommend-it.com/l.z.e?s=826126 to recommend us to friends! This newsletter is free. To subscribe, simply send a blank email to below

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

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

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

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

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

This Issue: American Superstars

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

INTERACTIVE GAMBLING – Slot manufacturers continue to look at interactive multimedia ways to get you more interested in their machines, and playing them longer. Full story on some of the more interesting games you will soon be seeing on the casino floor at http://www.pioneerplanet.com/seven-days/3/justgo/docs/037700.htm

CELINE DION – Rumors have this pop music diva putting down roots in Las Vegas soon. Her first child is due in February, she has expressed a desire to stay off of the road, and talk is that she is looking to sign a casino headliner deal here. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-03-Fri-2000/news/14726023.html

WYNN AGAIN – Aruze Corp. of Japan, one of the largest gaming machine manufacturers in the world, is cutting a $260 million check to buy half of former Mirage and Bellagio visionary Steve Wynn’s new company primed to develop the Desert Inn property. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-07-Tue-2000/business/14769682.html

MOVIE POSTERS – The history of Hollywood will come alive Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. as Re Galleries/Atelier in the Paris Las Vegas, in association with the American Film Institute, presents the premiere public exhibit of “AFI’s 100 Years… 100 American Movie Poster Classics.” Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/bw/001102/nv-cinevegas-film-fest

HAPPY DINING – If that dealer across the table from you looks well fed, they should be! One of the perks of working at a casino is the employees’ dining area, which rivals the buffet in most of the newer resorts. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-08-Wed-2000/living/14743104.html

BALI HAI GOLF CLUB – This new golf course just south of Mandalay Bay features 4,000 palm trees and more than 100,000 tropical plants and flowers, and little rough on the course veers away from the typical desert golf course stylings. Full story and photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-01-Wed-2000/sports/14728540.html

STRATOSPHERE TOWER – is undergoing a $65 million expansion, adding 1002 rooms, a 67,000 sq. ft. pool and recreation area, and 24 hour coffee shop with buffet. With new owner Carl Icahn at the helm, the hotel’s financial difficulties appear to be a thing of the past. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-02-Thu-2000/business/14734417.html

WE’RE #1 – Nevada has overtaken Kentucky as the state with the highest percentage of smokers. Nearly 1 in 3 Nevadans light up as a result of the state’s unrestrictive “live and let live” attitudes towards what many consider traditional vices. Full story at http://www.courierpress.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi?200011/03+smoking110300_news.html+20001103

$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!

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Anasazi of Santa Fe (Dessert Passage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-25-Wed-2000/living/14643740.html
* Josef’s Brasserie (Dessert Passage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-11-Wed-2000/living/14537849.html
* Lotus of Siam (near The Sahara) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Oct-20-Fri-2000/weekly/14620682.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

ESPY’S – The ESPN Espy Awards play the MGM on Feb 12. Tell your wife or girlfriend that you are talking her to Vegas for Valentine’s Day if you need an excuse! Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

JERRY LEWIS – plays The Orleans Nov. 16-19. You can read our archived review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-09-13.htm Tickets at (702) 365-7075 and Orleans discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (The Orleans link).

C2K – As reported last week, this nightclub at The Venetian is reopening but with a different theme. The new management is going after a more upscale (read: older) customer by making it a more inviting place. Our take? The problems of the past summer (including a young woman dying from a drug overdose) gave the resort a perfect opening to bring in new operators who would run a club targeted at people with money to gamble, which is the reason they built the property. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-07-Tue-2000/living/14737734.html

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Hot Trix – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-03-Fri-2000/weekly/14719879.html
* Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus – http://www.lvcitylife.com/theater/stories/00100501t.html and http://www.scopemag.com/departments/10_12_00/stage.html

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

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

LAS VEGAS WEATHER – This 4 day forecast is courtesy of Weather.Com:

Thursday – 60/40 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 56/37 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 59/34 Scattered Showers
Sunday – 58/34 Partly Cloudy

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

FEATURE STORY: American Superstars

american-superstars-01.jpg (29008 bytes)Long time readers know that I enjoy hitting similar shows or restaurants in a short amount of time. I’m still on a diet from visiting three of the best steakhouses in town in three straight weeks (Harrah’s Range, Binion’s Ranch, and Delmonico in The Venetian). Having lived here eight years but never checking out any of the celebrity impersonator shows, I thought it would be fun to see Legends In Concert (reviewed last week) and American Superstars pretty much back-to-back.

American Superstars features tributes to Madonna, Michael Jackson, Charlie Daniels, Elvis Presley and Gloria Estefan (with a “limited engagement” Ricky Martin at time of review). The show is a hybrid: One part celebrity recreation, one part 80’s rock concert, and one part Vegas show.

Elvis hit the stage first, with over-the-top renditions of classics like “Viva Las Vegas,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” and “Jailhouse Rock.” Done with elaborate lighting, sexy female dancers, and a live video shot of the fanfare shown on sidestage screens (hallmarks of every act), he set the stage for an energy level that seldom let up.

Gloria Estefan put on a passable set of the singer’s hits, although getting by more on staging and movements than being a complete look-alike as was the case with most of the performers. However, with any “tribute” show, one must understand you are attending for the music and emotions recreated in a live setting.

american-superstars-02.jpg (19459 bytes)I’m not a traditional country fan, but Charlie Daniels put on a rousing rendition of “Devil Went Down to Georgia” and patriotic favorite “God Bless the USA” as well as displaying some mind-bending fiddle work.

Madonna put on a nice set of hits from across her entire career, and (understandably) had great choreography with the dancers as well as displaying both the 80’s and 90’s Madonna look. Ricky Martin was next. Even though he was getting by more on looks and attire than singing ability, he seemed to be a hit with the ladies. Michael Jackson capped the show with a drop-dead rendition of his greatest hits, a look that could be mistaken for the real thing, and dancing moves that had to be seen to be believed.

American Superstars features Darren Lee as Elvis, Sandy Taggart as Gloria Estefan, Coty Alexander as Madonna, Damian Brantley as Michael Jackson and Johnny Potash as Charlie Daniels and also had an energetic 4 piece live band. One nice feature is that all of the performers as well as the dancers (in full Vegas showgirl costume) appeared in the lobby after the show to meet and greet and pose for photos with attendees.

Tickets for American Superstars at The Stratosphere are $26.95 plus tax for adults and $21.95 plus tax for children ages 5 to 12. Children under 21 must be accompanied with an adult, but with the exception of bare buns on the dancers during a couple of numbers, there is nothing remotely adult in the content.

American Superstars Ticket Info

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Jenn Power wrote:

>What will be going in Las Vegas for New Year’s?

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

FIREWORKS – LVCVA has authorized a half-million dollars for New Year’s Eve fireworks this year. Full story at http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/business/2000/may/22/510288532.html New Year’s Eve discount rates already available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm and prices have already risen since we published the story a few weeks ago so now is a great time to think about locking your room up.

Mona Zwilling from Minnesota wrote:

>I had to write and tell you how much I enjoy your newsletter.á When I
>didn’t receive one last week, I realized just how much I look forward
>to receiving it.á I came to Vegas for the first time in 1996.á It was
>going to be a one time thing, to be able to say I was there.á I will
>be coming there again in February, 2001 for my 4th visit.á I’m hooked.
>It’s going to be a “girls vacation” and we are staying at the Golden
>Nugget.á All the info in your newsletter really helps plan a great
>vacation, and makes me feel like I’m not so far away.á I was wondering
>how far in advance we should book shows, or how early would you know
>which performers will be there in February?á Thanks again for a GREAT
>newsletter!

Thanks for missing us! I publish this 46 – 48 times a year. Sometimes my travel, or a tight schedule with other professional obligations do force me to skip a week but I dearly appreciate those of you who support the newsletter by comparing our room and rental car rates for all your travel, as well as checking out our advertisers.

You can check headliners at http://www.accessvegas.com/events.htm and shows at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-shows.htm Really popular shows such as O, Mystere, Danny Gans, and Siegfried & Roy generally need to be reserved well in advance You can do so at http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=1 (Note: not all shows will be available more than 30-45 days ahead of time, so keep checking back).

Most other shows can be reserved the day you get to town by calling the hotel they are playing in, although many people utilize the above link if coming on a weekend or busy period when shows fill up fast. They charge a service charge of $9.95 a ticket — not bad to guarantee something you really want to see.

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

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

ONLINE POLL – How do you usually get from the airport to your hotel? Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published next week!

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. 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.

VIDEO POKER – Our friends at VideoPoker.com gave us 3 multiplay video poker CD-ROMS to give away. This is a full-featured video poker game where you can multiplay 3, 5, 10, or 50 hands of 11 different popular variations of video poker. Still trying to learn or perfect the game? This software notes the correct play for each hand, and comes with the “bells and whistles”! We’ll take the 20’th and 40’th entries at (contest closed)

Note: I’m noting the following contest again because I personally use WeatherBug and love it! Not only up-to-the-minute info (the same that the TV stations access) for your area, but you can click “setup” on the menu and enter in a zip code from another city, and instantly get info from anywhere in the US. Once you get the program, use the zip code 89119 to get Las Vegas Strip weather!

LIVE LOCAL WEATHER & A FREE TRIP TO VEGAS!! – It now PAYS to keep an eye on the weather! Download and register your own weather bug today, know what your local weather, alerts, storm watches, local satellite, and INSTA-CAM shots from your town all from a single click of the mouse. Lets not forget the chance at a FREE TRIP TO LAS VEGAS! Click to: http://by.advertising.com/1/c/22838/8488//

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

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

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

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

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

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

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 2, 2000

Posted on by

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Issue: Pasta Pirate

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

 

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FEATURE STORY: Pasta Pirate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Amy Logsdon wrote:

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

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

David Bochert wrote:

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

Emmie wrote:

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

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

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

Andrew Tarascio wrote:

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

Colin wrote:

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

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

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

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

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

FREE CONTESTS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
August 2, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 3, 2000

Posted on by

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it, but only in it’s entirety.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Issue: Paradise Garden Seafood Buffet

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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

SPEED – The new roller coaster at the Sahara is open for business! It’s linear-induction motors bring it to a speed of 70 mph as it goes through a loop and straight up the Sahara marquee. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-28-Fri-2000/weekly/13449086.html

MICHAEL JORDAN – is coming to the big screen. The really big screen! The Luxor is showing “Michael Jordan to the Max” in it’s IMAX theatre. They have also added a new IMAX 3-D film called Galapagos: The Enchanted Voyage”, a voyage to the archipelago of Ecuador. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-02-Tue-2000/lifestyles/13478720.html

SO YOU WANNA BE A GAMBLER – It takes more than watching a couple of old John Patrick tapes to beat the house. I should know — like many, I moved here dreaming of making the casinos pay. And they did. The first two years here, I was well in the black sports betting and counting cards at blackjack. I also realized that I would never have the kind of bankroll to make a full time living at it (especially considering the stress of trying to play blackjack without getting caught and the long hours required to handicap even football).

If you have the self-discipline to do well at either of the above, you have what it takes to do even better in just about any other field. Still, we all want to beat the house and Las Vegas Weekly has a great article on the nitty gritty of professional gambling at http://www.scopemag.com/features/risky_business.html

WORLD SERIES OF POKER – The infamous yearly tournament held at Binion’s horseshoe is underway. Friday evening on The Discovery Channel (11:00 PM Pacific — check your local listings) is an hour long special on this one-of-a-kind Las Vegas event. Well worth checking out even if you have no interest in poker.

AIRPORT CHECK-IN – The MGM has set up a check in desk right at the airport! You can get your room, have them take your bags, and arrange a ride to the hotel on their shuttle ($10 with luggage, $7 without). Early reports tout this as being quite the timesaver. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-29-Sat-2000/business/13470001.html and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

RESTAURANTS – Aqua, the beautiful restaurant at Bellagio is reviewed at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/May-03-Wed-2000/lifestyles/13458465.html Z’Tejas is a local’s fave a short cab ride from the Strip on Paradise. Z’Tejas review at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Apr-28-Fri-2000/weekly/13414773.html

I LOVE YOU – virus hit today, affecting those who use Microsoft email programs. For the record, there is no chance of catching a virus because you are on this mailing list. Viruses like “Melissa” and “I Love You” spread by sending themselves to everybody in your address book once they infect your computer.

Your email addresses are kept securely on file at mail-list.com, the company we employ to handle our mailings. This is also the reason why you need to follow the instructions at the bottom of the newsletter to subscribe, unsubscribe, or change addresses.

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

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

Hard Rock – Don Henley on July 10. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Las Vegas Hilton – Dwight Yokam and Keith Urban on June 9-10, and Engelbert Humperdinck July 11-16 and Pearl Jam on Oct. 22. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and Hard Rock discount rooms available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-other.htm (Hard Rock link).

Mandalay Bay – Toto on May 26, Cheap Trick on July 3, and Hall and Oats on July 21. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

MGM – Marc Anthony on June 16, and Blink 182 with Bad Religion on June 24. Tickets at (702) 474-4000 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).


FEATURE STORY: Paradise Garden Seafood Buffet

We’ve had an unusually high number of requests for info on this buffet, as well as hearing some great things about it. So, tonight we got over there to check it out. After a 25 minute wait in line around 8:00 PM, we were in and quite impressed from the get-go.

My biggest complaints about Las Vegas buffets are the atmosphere. Even the $27 Rio Seafood buffet is noisy, very little to look at, and background music that is too loud (archived at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-02-02.htm ). Not the case here! Almost every seat has a view out into the wildlife habitat, home to a flock of live Chilean Flamingos as well as African penguins, swans, ducks, Koi, goldfish and turtles plus exotic vegetation viewed from the dining room through 2 stories of glass.

The lighting (after dark) is subdued, with background music almost unnoticed. Service was very prompt, with our coffee cups never getting below half empty and plates removed by the time we were back from the buffet line.

Being exceptionally bright and professional, I managed to misplace the menu that a chef was kind enough to get for me after my meal, but this buffet had everything you should expect from a seafood buffet and then some. Two types of fresh green salad as well as a host of other cold salads shared a large center island with the other side filled with crab, shrimp, two types of oysters, lobster, and more — all you care to eat.

At one end of the buffet were rolls, bread, chips and salsa, at the other 3 varieties of fresh sliced melons. The serving line had the more traditional salmon, fried shrimp, and even a fish lasagna. (I’d love to tell you what kind — I’m going from memory here — I’m sure the menu specifically noted it). Also featured were a healthy variety of both the usual and less common fish delights.

Yes, you can bring that one guy who “hates fish” because the traditional buffet fare was present and accounted for. Garlic mashed potatoes, carved turkey and roast beef, and Chinese and Mexican dishes help round out the fare.

Desert was self-service, which I prefer. I hate waiting in line for the best part of the meal! As you know, I judge a desert area by it’s cheesecake. Three varieties and it wasn’t the cheap stuff! They also had a vast assortment of cakes and pies of virtually every variety. For those on a sugar restricted diet, they had one of the better “no sugar added” selection I have seen at any buffet.

Despite the modest price, nothing was second rate. This is the traditional casino loss leader, giving you value far beyond what you pay in both food and atmosphere. I’ll be going back! The Paradise Garden Buffet is located in the Flamingo Hilton and is open from 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM 7 days a week. Cost is $15, which includes tax. I’m sure that lost menu will show up first thing tomorrow …

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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Micki from Huntington, NY wrote:

>Hi!á Love your newsletter…á I’m so glad I subscribed to it.á My
>husband and I are coming to Vegas the end of May.á We usually do nice
>dinner & show at night and were wondering if anyone knows how the
>restaurants are at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel.á We are seeing Notre
>Dame de Paris (Hunchback of Notre Dame musical) and were interested in
>eating there as well.á We are particularly interested in the very nice
>restaurant located in the Eiffel Tower (French rest.).á Would
>appreciate any response.á Many thanks.

We have not seen Notre Dame nor dined at the Eiffel Tower restaurant yet. Reviews on Notre Dame are mixed. Reviews on the Eiffel tower restaurant all have one theme — nice but OVERPRICED (even from what it offers). Since you want an upscale dinner, make your way across the street to Bellagio. The walk is just a few minutes, and beautiful as you trace the edge of the lake. Picasso is one of only 19 Five Star restaurants in the U.S., although virtually any dining selection at Bellagio won’t let you down.

Satnick in NJ wrote:

>My husband and I just returned from our first trip to
>Vegas and loved it. We stayed at the Luxor and treated
>ourselves to a jacuzzi room in the pyramid. It was
>lovely and we enjoyed it. We toured most of the hotels
>although we could not squeeze everything into 4 days.
>
>We ate at Emeril’s New Orleans Seafood and enjoyed it
>but thought it was a little overrated. The food was
>good and the staff excellent but felt more like a
>chain restaurant and banking on his name than we had
>anticipated. I wouldn’t go back again but don’t regret
>the experience as we are Emeril fans.
>
>We saw a real Vegas style show at Bally’s called
>Jubilee. It was quite entertaining and we both enjoyed
>it more than we thought we would.
>
>We also went downtown and had fun. Be prepared that
>this a different element than the strip and more of a
>party atmosphere. I was not thrilled with the Fremont
>Experience light show and wouldn’t have cared if we
>missed it. I did enjoy the “boardwalk” kind of feel
>that was there.
>
>The best experience was a helicopter ride to the Grand
>Canyon. We had a beautiful day and felt incredibly
>lucky to land in the Canyon and see all that we saw.
>Although it is pricey, it was well worth it!
>
>All in all, it was GREAT trip. If I return (I hope), I
>would like to stay more centrally located on the
>strip. We stayed at the south end and didn’t get to
>some of the northerly hotels. Thanks for all the tips
>and information before our trip!

H. Hollis of Denver, Co. wrote:

>I visited Vegas about a month ago and I will never stay at the
>Stratosphere ever again!á We have stayed twice and this past one was
>very disappointing and I even wrote the Hotel with a list of 9
>complaints and have yet got any reply from them.
>
>Whatever you do don’t use the phones in your room to make a long
>distance calls unless you have a card; we were charged over $5.00 A
>MINUTE!á All of the employees were so rude, they were not friendly at
>all.á We never felt welcome there.á The Dealers were the worst!á The
>only thing that has improved was the buffet.

We are sorry to hear that. It does bring up the subject of what to do if you have a bad stay and here are some general rules to follow:

1. Don’t be scared to talk to someone in charge (restaurant manager, pit boss, etc). Sometimes they will do something then and there to make it right.

2. Write the hotel and complain! If it is legitimate, they have been known to send you vouchers for free rooms, or at least free food to get you back in the door (hoping your next experience will be better).

3. Constructive, concise criticism is always appreciated. If you can remember the name of the person and date you got the bad service, they take you more seriously that some guy who’s mad because he lost all his money, upset his wife, drank too much, fell asleep in the sun …

We hope your next stay is better!

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

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


FREE CONTESTS:

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

Hard Rock Hotel “Slot Player” souvenir key chain — Enter at (contest closed)

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

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
May 3, 2000

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 22, 2000

Posted on by

Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the newsletter that talks about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Please forward this to friends who may enjoy it, but only in it’s entirety.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This Issue: Winning At Video Poker

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

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:BEST OF LAS VEGAS – The Review-Journal’s “Best of Las Vegas 2000” is out! This unscientific survey still proves to be pretty accurate year in and year out, with each category having a “popular vote” winner as well as an “editor’s choice”. You can read it online at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/bestoflv/

MARCH MADNESS – and the beginning of the spring break season make March a very “mad” time here in Las Vegas. The sports books are jammed from morning until late night and the clubs are jammed from late night until sunrise. (When do these people sleep)? We found a great story that gives you a feel for the situation at http://www7.mercurycenter.com/premium/sports/docs/gamble17.htm

SKYDIVING FOR CHICKENS – (this includes me) is available at Flyaway Indoor Skydiving. For $35 you can get in their wind tunnel and experience a 120 wind keep you afloat just as if you were falling out of a plane. Full story and photo at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-17-Fri-2000/weekly/13129167.html

THE HIGHWAY STATIONS – bill themselves as “The Stations you Listen to on the way to Las Vegas” from Southern California. They now have a website with Las Vegas information as well as live online feeds of their stations at http://www.thehighwaystations.com/main.html (One station is “lite” rock and the other is country). The fun thing about listening online is that they are very Las Vegas tourist oriented with constant info on Las Vegas events and activities.

YOU JUST KEEP COMING – and we aren’t complaining! McCarran Numbers are up – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-18-Sat-2000/business/13194602.html Laughlin numbers are up – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-18-Sat-2000/business/13192969.html For those interested in Laughlin information, we have a Laughlin page at http://www.accessvegas.com/laughlin-nevada-nv.htm

MGM GRAND ADVENTURES – No, that’s not the name of that plane the Lakers and rock bands fly on. The MGM theme park is scheduled to open daily for Spring Break from April 15 – April 30, 2000. HOURS: 11 am – 7 PM.
PRICES: $15 admission fee allows unlimited access to all rides and shows except SkyScreamer. After April 30, it’s open weekends only until June 10. We understand they have made a number of changes (possibly not all for the better) so we will get over there soon, take a peek, and let you know. In the meantime, those of you looking for something to do with the kids here might want to check out tour Circus Circus AdventureDome review at https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-01-19.htm

STAR CANYON – The cowboy-themed restaurant in The Venetian was just reviewed at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Mar-22-Wed-2000/lifestyles/13187669.html

WEATHER – You can sign up to have KVVU FOX 5 here in Las Vegas send the 5 day forecast to your email every single day. For Vegas “nuts” (or locals) only! http://www.enewsnotifier.com/wwwroot/kvvu/

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

Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

MANDALAY BAY – RICKY MARTIN is returning to live la vida Las Vegas on July 22. Tickets available at (702) 474-4000 and Mandalay Bay discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (Mandalay Bay link).

FEATURE STORY: Winning At Video PokerVideo poker has often been thought of as a “local’s game”. (We are tired of pulling a slot handle and at least want to put a little thought into it). It also is one of the few beatable games in the casino, provided you find the proper machines. Proper machines? Yes — video poker is about the one game where they display how tight the machine is right there on it!

Every single video poker machine in the state has to deal the same way. They randomly deal one deck of cards. Yet, the different machines pay different amounts back for THE EXACT SAME HANDS! For example, some machines pay 9 for a flush, some 8, and some less. Believe it or not, many casinos will have games sitting right next to each other that have different pay tables. Since the deal is the same, it’s much smarter to play the machines giving a higher payback on those flushes and straights so you can win more and play longer!

Proper play is also important. If you had four to the royal and a king of another suit as the fifth card, obviously you would toss the extra king (and the 1-1 payback) and go for that royal, right? Well, there are other more minor decisions that over time will benefit you just as well. Proper play is a must to extend your bankroll until you hit that royal.

The other important thing: always use your slot club card. A machine might only pay back 99.5% (with proper play), but if you are getting .5% cash back and / or good slot club points you can spend on food and rooms, you are breaking even (or better in a few cases).

We have a full page of gambling information to help make you a smarter player at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-gambling-online.htm I’m also listing a couple of books here that you might look into. Trust me, the few bucks you spend on a book will more than be paid back by the bigger comps you earn from smarter play on your very next visit. You should see my library of gambling books, and they paid for themselves a LONG time ago! Plus, they make a good read for that long plane ride here:

“The Las Vegas Advisor Guide to Slot Clubs” helps explain the why’s and how’s to make sure you get your comps when playing slots and video poker, as well as which programs are more generous. You are the customer. Go where you get the best deal – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0929712757/invegascom

“The Frugal Gambler” is Jean Scott’s guide to getting the best and most comps. You have seen her on CBS, The Discovery Channel, and other Las Vegas documentaries. She stays and eats for free in Las Vegas 100 nights a year all while not losing a dime – http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0929712404/invegascom

“Winning Strategies for Video Poker” is a great way to learn all the major games played anywhere and includes strategy tables to optimize your play. Even if you are playing on an Indian reservation or riverboat where you can’t find a “full payback” game, it’s a lot better to look for the machines that come close! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0962376639/invegascom

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:Linda wrote:

>Dear Ted: Am planning a trip to LV in July and do plan on winning :).
>However, I would like information on claiming losses on income tax.á I
>have seen this information before and thought it might come in handy,
>just in case.á This time I will make a copy of it.á I would appreciate
>it if you could send this to me, or possibly include it once again in
>your newsletters.

That is a great question. Personally, I think that taxing gaming winnings is a crime because 99.9% of everyone loses more than they win. Having said that, you can write off gaming losses, but they don’t make it easy. Keep a diary with you. Write down where you played (down to what table or machine number if possible), how long you played, what you bought in for, and what you cashed out with. You can deduct the losses against the wins, but you can’t deduct any more than that — i.e. if you won $4,200 during the year and lost $4,600, you can’t “write off” the aggregate $400 loss. The IRS doesn’t make it easy, does it?

Dave Bagnik wrote:

>My wife and I come to Las Vegas 2-3 times a year and love to sample
>the local restaurants as well as those in the hotels.
>
>After hearing so much praise regarding The Venetian, we went there
>about 3 years ago.
>
>To say it was disappointing is a huge understatement.á The same goes
>for Battista’s last year.
>
>Other than Ferraro’s on Flamingo, are there any non-hotel Italian
>restaurants that can match or even come close to the overall quality
>of Stefano’s at G.N.?á Please let us know!

Note: The Venetian Italian restaurant he spoke of is near Palace Station at Sahara and Valley view and has no relation to the Venetian hotel. I’m not much of Italian food guy. Anyone out here want to help us out here? allvegastv@aol.com

Dennis Ida from Hawaii wrote:

>I had a question about Las Vegas and I didn’t know who else to ask.
>When I arrive at McCarran, I usually take the Bell Trans shuttle to my
>hotel on the Strip.á It cost me about 4 or 5 bucks.á If I am traveling
>in a party of 3 people, is it cheaper to catch a cab?á How about a
>modest limousine?á Would it cost that much more?

The cab will cost about the same (you didn’t mention where you are staying), but you get to go straight to your hotel. I’d go for it. Other options: In the same area you catch the shuttles, there are actual limos that will take you (and a bunch of others) to your hotels for $4-5 a head. The catch? You ride with a number of strangers. It’s just that you are in a limo and not a shuttle bus. There are usually also limos parked in that area that you can hire for $35 (plus tip) for a private ride to any hotel on the Strip or downtown.

Porter wrote,

>I love Emeril Lagassi, and found out he has two restaurants in Las
>Vegas.á I will be there at the end of April, and would like to check
>out at least one of them.á His food on the show looks so great, how is
>the food at the restaurants?á And how expensive is it?á Thanks, Kristi

We will be reviewing Emeril Lagasse’s Delmonico Steakhouse at The Venetian soon, but not in time for your trip. Everything I’ve heard about it is great, but consider $100 a person as your minimum if you are going to enjoy a full meal and drinks.

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

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

ONLINE POLL – “Are you planning a Las Vegas visit despite the high fuel prices?” Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!Last poll results: “Do you prefer table games, slots, or both?”

Slots 48%
Table Games 33%
Both 19%

FREE CONTESTS:

Note: You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. Please note the expiration date and only enter if you will be in town and can use them. The 10’th entry in each contest will be the winner (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest). Just sent a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

LAS VEGAS T-SHIRT – 10’th entry at (contest closed)

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

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

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

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
March 22, 2000

Page 5 of 6
1 2 3 4 5 6