Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 8, 2006

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

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

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

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

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

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Las Vegas For The Spring Breaker On A Budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My four tips for boozing:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotels to avoid for the budget Spring Break traveler:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

——————–

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Access Vegas Insider Vibe – April 29, 2005

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

Note: Mr. Newkirk is recovering from illness. His return is projected for June. In the meantime, please enjoy the stories, photos, and news links complied by our staff!

Free Show Tickets – We’ll probably only be able to hand out the free Larry G. Jones tickets for a few more days. Here’s the deal: When Larry’s new ticket deal goes through, we must yank the coupon. However, if you have one, it will be honored on your future visit! So get over to Larry G. Jones – The Man of 1002 Voices and print a few out for yourself, your friends, anyone you know who might be coming to Vegas.

Photographers Needed – AccessVegas.com is looking for photographers to send on occasional freelance paid assignments. A resume is not necessary. The ability to take good shots with a digital camera is. Send info and a sample of your work to allvegastv@aol.com. We also consider the purchase of Las Vegas photo sets taken by readers for publication. Send samples for details.


Las Vegas hotels double down as more than just a place to sleep. Make your reservation for casinos, buffets, and neon lights. Book your flight + hotel together on Travelocity and save even more! Save on Fantastic Deals on Las Vegas Hotels


wynn las vegas
Photo Courtesy wynnlasvegas.com

Wynn Las Vegas Opens – The most anticipated casino opening in the history of Las Vegas took place this week!

Wynn-ing On A Budget – Even regular Vegas visitors might not have ventured north of The Venetian in years. Older resort properties were bypassed to see all the new South Strip resorts built during the past decade.

However … The opening of Wynn Las Vegas squarely moves the focus of “hot” back to the north. If you want to stay close to Wynn Las Vegas but you aren’t on a Steve Wynn budget, refresh yourselves with these established favorites. The following lodging choices are all within a comfortable walk of the new Wynn resort:

Attention Monorail Riders: You can see Wynn Las Vegas from the monorail, but no stop is close. Get off at Harrah’s and enjoy the walk past The Venetian.

Show NotesAnthony Cools The Uncensored Hypnotist has resurfaced at Paris Las Vegas, new dates are on sale for Barry Manilow (who is drawing great reviews), Forever Plaid is well worth the quick trip over to the Gold Coast (next to The Rio), and Hawaii’s Society of Seven is thriving with the addition of Lani Misalucha.

If you miss 80’s and 90’s rock/metal the trashy styles on sexy women, Erocktica is drawing one of the wildest crowds in town at The Rio. (Word is that the women in the crowd often get more wild than the women on stage)! On another adult note, Bite is the new erotic and sensual topless show at The Stratosphere.

Cousin Vinnie and the Ba-Da-Bing gang are inviting you to an evening that roars only with good fund, good music and an atmosphere that recaptures an era at the new Speakeasy Cabaret at Ba-Da-Bing at the legendary Stardust. And true to form, the gang’s all here. Cousin Vinnie and the flapper’s, dolls, goombas and gangsters.

Hey, what’s it a little ba-da-bang-bang between friends? We’re shootin’ from the “hip” and believe it when we tell you that this is the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights. You can dance to the sounds of Karin Denise and the Sin City Boyz Show Band, enjoy easy conversation with friends, meet cousin Vinnie and the Ba-Da-Bing gang, and enjoy an alcoholic beverage or two (no Prohibition here!). Cousin Vinnie says: “Be dere or else!” Click for Speakeasy Cabaret at Ba-da-Bing info.

Show NotesAnthony Cools The Uncensored Hypnotist has resurfaced at Paris Las Vegas, new dates are on sale for Barry Manilow (who is drawing great reviews), Forever Plaid is well worth the quick trip over to the Gold Coast (next to The Rio), and Hawaii’s Society of Seven (pictured) is thriving with the addition of Lani Misalucha.

If you miss 80’s and 90’s rock/metal and the trashy styles on sexy women, Erocktica is drawing one of the wildest crowds in town at The Rio. Word is that the women in the crowd sometimes get more wild than the women on stage! On another adult note, Bite is the new erotic and sensual topless show at The Stratosphere.

Crazy Girls Showgirl Controversy Puts Riviera On The Map – After 18 years it’s a household name: Makes history as “LV’s Sexiest Topless Revue”

Norbert Aleman, creator and producer of “Crazy Girls,” said, “‘Crazy Girls’ and ‘La Cage’ are the backbone of the Riviera’s entertainment. I began at the Riviera with a 12-week engagement and here we are 18-20 years later. I was told that we would never survive and we faced controversies with the National Organization of Women, Las Vegas City Hall and a powerful state senator and we survived it all. Public opinion was very supportive and we are still here. During the early to mid-’90s ‘Crazy Girls’ was the only show of its type and now there are nine copies of the show in Las Vegas.”

Norbert continued, “When the show began in 1987 we had a predominately male audience and bachelor parties and now it’s Middle America with half couples some women and some men in small groups. That’s how the mores of America are changing. The show has gained wide acceptance. Now the taboo is the (gentleman’s) clubs while the ‘Crazy Girls’ appeals to most adults.”

It all began at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. At 18 years, “Crazy Girls” is the longest running topless cabaret in the history of Las Vegas!

Gambling Talk: You Can Bet On it Blackjack Overview – with Victor H. Royer. is the second of a four part audio series. In this segment, Victor how people used to beat the game, the new rules and methods, which blackjack games/rules don’t rip you off, and how to play informed and maximize the ability to win! This week, click to learn all about Blackjack Overview.

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

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

More … News – Concerts – Events … Scroll Down!


More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Click To Read Latest News:


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

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

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

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

All contents copyright 2005 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

April 29, 2005 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 29, 2004

In This Issue: Newkirk’s Notes, Las Vegas Year In Review, Monorail Now Open, Top Notch Cheap and Free Entertainment, Caesars Forum Shops Expansion Photos, Trip Report Giveaway, more …
Book online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining.

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

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


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Free Photos, Wallpaper, and Streaming Videos
Free Online Games!

Newkirk’s Notes – comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:Hello from Las Vegas! This is our big year-end issue and we want to wish everyone a Happy New Year and the best for 2005. We’ve added tons of hot concerts and headliners, extra stories, and a look back at what a huge year Las Vegas had.


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

2004 Year In Review

The Las Vegas Review-Journal writers picked Las Vegas’ Top 10’s in a number of categories. We bring you the lists with links to the complete stories:

Norm: Vegas highlights, lowlights of ’04 – Note: Las Vegas Columnist and “Ace Insider” Norm Clarke is a fellow regular on Vegas Talk and his book Vegas Confidential: 1000 N@ked Truths is a must read for Vegas visitors. The only true insiders guide.

Top 10 Vegas Shows of 2004: Elton John reinterprets classic songs in artistic show at Caesars Palace

1. Elton John
2. O by Cirque du Soleil
3. Mamma Mia!
4. Mystere by Cirque du Soleil
5. Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme
6. Clint Holmes
7. The Second City
8. The Fashionistas
9. Mac King
10. Celine Dion

Top 10 Restaurants of 2004: Alize doesn’t rely on great view to win over diners

1. Alize
2. Bradley Ogden
3. Picasso
4. Le Cirque
5. Craftsteak
6. Bouchon
7. Pamplemousse
8. Quinta Belina
9. Enrico’s
10. Sterling Brunch

Business 2004 In Review: Merging and Converging – A pair of Strip megadeals lead the year in local business

1. MGM Mirage and Mandalay Resorts to merge
2. Harrah’s Entertainment buying Caesars Entertainment
3. Horseshoe closes, sold, reopened, sold again
4. Las Vegas home prices soar
5. Project CityCenter unveiled
6. Las Vegas heads to Macau
7. Neonopolis up for sale
8. Resurgence of downtown Las Vegas
9. Tourism rebounds
10. FBI obtains customer information

Monorail: Sanitized For Your Protection – Last week, we told you it the opening was close, and the Las Vegas Monorail opened back up on Christmas Eve. As a present to Las Vegas visitors, the ride was free the first five days, and carried record traffic. Of course, we were down risking life and limb (just kidding) Christmas Eve to take a ride, and everything was great. Related news stories:

Gambling Talk: Caribbean Draw and Super 9’s – with Victor H. Royer. Be informed about these two fun, new games/variations you’ll be seeing on your next visit! This week, click to learn all about Caribbean Draw and Super 9’s.

Top Notch Cheap and Free Entertainment – Here are our picks for great Las Vegas entertainment without breaking your budget:

  • David Van Such is a nationally known smooth jazz artist who makes Las Vegas his home. You can catch him and his band live at Sinbad Lounge in The Aladdin this coming week (Jan. 4-8) from 4:30 – 9:00 PM, one drink minimum. Take a listen: Dial-Up or Broadband audio and make sure to tell him that AccessVegas.com sent you!
  • Larry G. Jones keeps knocking them dead downtown at The Plaza. He’s a first-rate impressionist. Danny Gans without the $100 price tag. In fact, the show’s $7.95 ticket includes a drink! Watch Larry in action: Dial-Up or Broadband video. Even if you stay on The Strip, you have to get downtown for one night. Our suggestion? See Larry’s show (6:00 PM nightly except Friday) while everyone else is standing in line for restaurants. Then enjoy a meal and catch a couple of the spectacular light shows. Fremont Street Light Show video: Dial-Up or Broadband (also free)!

New Forum Shop Expansion – is beautiful. Stunning. Amazing. Located right on The Strip, this huge three-level wing features curved escalators, statues, marble, classically painted ceilings, and more. We’ve added stunning new photos to our Caesars Forum Shops Photo Gallery. Related news stories:

Las Vegas Trip Report Giveaway – We’ll start listing and voting on trip reports next issue (finally). Sorry for the delays. We should have waited until after New Year’s Eve to crank this up. All prizes will be awarded!

Listen To Us!VegasTalk Radio Show is the only Internet Radio Variety Show from Las Vegas, about Las Vegas! The weekly variety and entertainment show is archived online at the VegasTalk Radio website. If you are visiting soon, or you just love Las Vegas, listen to the archives available 24/7.

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

Rewind – What you may have missed last issue:

More … News – Concerts – Events … Scroll Down!


Click For Great Las Vegas Hotel Values


More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Click To Read Latest News:



Vegas Comments and Questions? Post to our message boards and get great advice from people who have been here and done it. And don’t forget our comprehensive Las Vegas Frequently Asked Questions area.For comments or questions regarding our content or this newsletter write us at allvegastv@aol.com.

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

All contents copyright 2004 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

December 29, 2004 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us
Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – October 20, 2004

Featured Story:
Spotlight: The Show
plus Value Shows and Coupons

Also In This Issue: Newkirk’s Notes, Vegas Talk Internet Radio Tourist Show, Manhattan Experss Roller Coaster Deal, Gambling Talk , more …
Book online or over the phone! Call (toll free) 800-696-5721 to book all Las Vegas hotels, shows, tours, golf, and dining.Welcome to Access Vegas News and Reviews! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

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


AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Free Las Vegas Multimedia:

Free Las Vegas Multimedia:


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

If you were looking for our promised special issue this past Sunday, we apologize. We have been upgrading our newsletter software to handle the great demand … and it took a little longer than expected to get the bugs out.

Been a very rare week this week, with rain, clouds, and highs barely reaching 70 F. I am personally putting this lousy weather back on an Alaska Airlines flight tonight and sending it back to the Pacific Northwest where it belongs! (No hate mail, please. I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, an area that is spectacularly beautiful).

VegasTalk Radio - The only Internet Radio variety show about Las Vegas broadcast from Las Vegas Vegas Talk – is the new internet radio show just for the Las Vegas tourist! Each week, guests talk about what’s hot with celeb sightings, gambling tips, show reviews, dining information and more from some of the top Las Vegas experts. I mean the big names you’ve seen on those Travel Channel shows or read in our local papers.

We are pleased to be a sponsor, and our Vegas Minute is included in the show. We also produce the convention segment so you can know where the crowds may or may not be when you visit!

Vegas Talk airs live at 9:00 AM Pacific time on Friday, but each show is archived and can be listened to anytime. Enjoy this week’s show and the archives so you can come to Las Vegas informed!

The Manhattan Express Roller Coaster now offers the All-In-One Fun Package, available for $39.99. The package includes an all day unlimited roller coaster ride wristband; a souvenir T-shirt; a 5 x 7 souvenir picture; choice of hot dog, cheeseburger or slice of pizza; small fries and small drink at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs; an all day unlimited use wristband for the Coney Island Emporium for participating games; 500 points at the redemption center and a 20-inch clown doll.

The Manhattan Express is located at New York, New York Hotel Casino and is the worldÆs first coaster to feature a 180-degree heartline twist and dive maneuver, providing riders with heart-stopping action and thrills. The roller coaster is open daily from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Gambling Talk – You’ve heard about basic strategy and proper play. This is where a gambler follows the most scientific way to play a given game for the best expected outcome. But are there times you should break the rules? Read our gambling expert Victor H. Royer’s article A Little Math and Some Reality

Fashion Show Mall – Phase III opens Friday Oct. 21, 2004. All of that massive construction in front of Caesars Palace is finally about done! We’ll have a report soon.


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

More Las Vegas News – Concerts – Events

Click To Read Latest News:

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



Featured Story:
Spotlight: The Show
plus Value Shows and Coupons

á

We read our feedback, and many of you are saying “Hey Ted, it’s nice to hear about The Bellagio and Celine Dion, but not all of us fly in on a Lear jet. How about some of the value that Las Vegas has always been famous for?”

We went out and lined up some great deals for you, including a couple of coupons just for our readers. One of which is for a free show!

Larry G. Jones: $6.95 Includes One Drink (no coupon needed) – The Man of 1002 Voices is back at The Plaza Hotel Casino downtown nightly at 6:00 PM (dark Friday). Larry is awesome. His fast moving show will leave you laughing non-stop and his impressions are dead on. If Danny Gans is a bit our of your price range, treat yourself to the equally talented Larry G. Jones. Click for more info: Larry G. Jones: May Of 1002 Voices

Spotlight: $9.95 With Our Coupon – We just saw this show at Bourbon Street Hotel Casino and really enjoyed it. So I strong-armed producer Will Roya (who also produces the Michael John’s Comedy Magic Show below) and said “Cough it up for our readers … We want a great price.” (OK, I actually bought him dinner).

If you love all the high-energy specialty acts in the big production shows, spotlight is the show to see with the best up-and-coming talent in town. On any particular night you may see the world’s best magicians, jugglers, comics, impersonators, dancers, singers, contortionists, fire eaters, Elvis and surprise guest stars.

This is usually a $39.95 ticket, but click to get our Spotlight Coupon and you are in for $9.95. Can’t beat that. Well … maybe we can …

Michael Johns Comedy Hypnosis Show: Free With Our Coupon – This is the adults-only, late evening show at Bourbon Street. This is the same show that Johns has been performing around the country in comedy clubs to amazing rave reviews. Fast paced, comedy club style humor with cutting edge hypnosis techniques make this a fun event.

This is usually a $39.95 ticket, but click to get our Michael Johns Comedy Hypnosis Show Coupon and you are in for $0.00. That is right. Free. No bull. Nothing else to do. Print the coupon, enjoy the show free just for being one of our readers!

While we are in value mode, good time to remind you that Bourbon Street continues to have a great Steak and Lobster Special, served 24/7 for only $7.77. Thirsty? Buckets of Corona are only $10.00. Bourbon Street is one block from The Bellagio. See our Las Vegas Strip Map for location.



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

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

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

Attention Travel Agents: Tired of fighting the airlines and internet travel eroding your business? Let us help! What if you were guaranteed respectable commissions on not just hotels, but Las Vegas shows, tours, golf, dining and more? One stop commissions for you, and better info and choices for your clients.No starting costs, maintenance fees, or minimums. Oh, and we won’t steal your customers. Our “customer for life” policy guarantees you get paid even if they book direct, time after time. Email us now: allvegastv@aol.com Subject line Travel Agent, include your name and phone number. We’ll get the details right to you.
All contents copyright 2004 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.

October 20, 2004 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us

Proud Member:
Las Vegas Internet Chamber of Commerce

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – August 20, 2003

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

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

This Issue: Deals, News, Reader Questions Answered

Also In This Issue – August 20, 2003: Newkirk’s Notes, Cheap Rooms, News Of Interest To Tourists, More

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

Maverick Las Vegas Wins Travel Channel Awards! – Our friends at Maverick Helicopter Tours were selected by the Travel Channel as having not only one, but two of the Top Ten World’s Best Helicopter Thrills. They were the only company to nail two slots in the top 10.

Labor Day Rooms – It’s not to late to book a room and party three days here in Las Vegas! And if you can’t join us then, keep in mind that summer is just beginning here. Average high temperatures:

September: 94
October: 81
November: 66

Summer doesn’t have to end if you check out our discount room specials. Plus guys … psssst: Football season plus legal sports betting plus our fabulous sports books make fall the exciting time of year! (And ladies, what better excuse to do some shopping if he’s spending his travel “allowance” at the sports book).

Vegas Flood – You probably saw shots of Las Vegas washing away last week. The flood was severe, but only in the far Northwest of our valley. Far away from any areas the average tourist will ever visit (30+ minute drive from The Strip).

Unlike the tourism areas, the far Northwest is still growing , meaning lots of open land and uncompleted flood control. You can view photos: KLAS TV 2003 Flood Gallery


DSL for Low Monthly Cost


Las Vegas News: Of Interest To Tourists

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


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

Featured Story: Reader Questions Answered

Mira Hickey from Germany wrote:

Thank you very much for the newsletter. It’s a pleasure to view your great website from Germany! 🙂

We really appreciate our readers from around the world who take an interest in our crazy, unique American city. Because of the distance and cost, we know it is important to find as much information as possible. That is why we go further than other travel sites, offering huge online photo galleries and streaming videos. No matter where in the world, if you have internet, we bring you the neon!

Message Board Member “vegaswannab” wrote:

Hello, I am a new member and I must say that I am impressed with the hard work that went into making this site exciting and helpful. My husband and I are planning a second honeymoon possibly next year to celebrate our 2nd honeymoon he is 44 and I am 43.

We may be older but we love still to do young things such as dance and listen to oldies 70 & 80’s we are not that old. BUT we feel we may be uncomfortable at some of the clubs that we have seen posted on here as well as advertised, can u tell us if there is a place for older yet not fossils men and women can go and let their hair down as we say.

We are considering either MGM or NYNY or Mirage, which is my personal favorite. We will be there for 10 days and nine nights, and are also seeking a on strip small wedding chapel to renew our vows, can u at all anyone be of help to us.

OK members, all hands on deck! I gave her a few of my suggestions in our Travel Questions/Trip Suggestions forum. With all of our varied reader experiences, I’m sure we can find nine days of great suggestions for them as well as some wedding chapel suggestions. Post away!

June and David wrote:

Due to work schedules and great discounts on air travel and hotels during Christmas that make going to Las Vegas affordable, we come here each year during this time. It seems that most all of the shows we want to see are dark.

Last year we were disappointed when such shows as Skintight, Penn and Teller, Folies Bergere, and Scintas, just to name a few, were all dark. We realize there is lots to do in Vegas, and that performers are entitled to have vacations, but do shows ever vary their schedules and switch vacation days? Will any of these shows be available during this time of year, or are we condemned forever never to see many of these hot shows in Vegas?

Vacationing the 10 days before Christmas is a double-edge sword. It is the lowest demand time of the year, offering dirt cheap room rates and plenty of elbow room here in Las Vegas. The downside is that most shows close. Partly because of the lack of tourists in town, and partly because many of the tourists who do visit before Christmas are budget minded with no interest in spending on a show.

Let us suggest making a second visit on the summer (or alternating every year). August heat brings fairly low room rates, but the shows are in full swing! As always, use our Vegas Show Search and Headliner/Concerts Calendar to play check out what is playing during your trip here.

Message Board Member “sarae” wrote:

7 of us stayed at the Lady Luck last month and were pleased. We felt comfortable gambling, dining, and sleeping. The hotel is not fast paced. I liked being able to walk right out my hotel room to the pool. 5 of us stayed in the Garden rooms and the 2 honeymooners stayed in the tower room with a Jacuzzi. Their room was fancy, rate was reasonable, and had an awesome view. We would all definitely stay there again.

We have some active posts about downtown going on in our Downtown/Fremont St. Experience forums. Join in with questions or share your experiences.



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

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

Live From Las Vegas,

Ted Newkirk

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

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

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

All contents copyright 2003 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
August 20, 2003 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – March 27, 2002

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 80 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.

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

THIS ISSUE: Las Vegas Updates, I Love LaFong, Fielding West

LAS VEGAS DEALS – for April / May:

* Aladdin Resort & Casino – From $75.95 until 05/31/02
* Flamingo Las Vegas – From $49.95 until 06/30/02
* Imperial Palace – From $59.95 until 06/30/02

All of these and more available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-discounts.htm

$100 HOTEL COUPON! Our partners at Hotel Reservations Network are giving you a coupon for up to $100 back on any hotel stay in Las Vegas or any major city they reserve. Full details at http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm

LAS VEGAS: Tours, Entertainment, Hotels, Packages, Weddings, Gambling, Golf, Nightlife, Dining, and Weather — get it all at http://www.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


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

Hello from Las Vegas! Change is in the air. The weather has finally settled in to a beautiful springtime after a few weeks of hit-and-miss with some cold days. More importantly we’ve changed and updated things on http://www.accessvegas.com to give you quicker access to the more deals and more Las Vegas information.

NEW LOOK – If you have not stopped by http://www.accessvegas.com recently, now is a great time. We are excited about our new, cleaner look that lets you see deals and headliners at a glance and access all the Las Vegas information you need with just one click!

APRIL PROGRAM – Our April episode of All Vegas TV is available. Simply go to http://tv.accessvegas.com and click on the big TV screen for both current and past episodes. This month we tour Little Chapel of the Flowers, showing you a “behind the scenes” on getting married in Las Vegas. We have video highlights of the new “I Love LaFong” show, and finish with an interview with video poker expert Rob Singer. If you are frustrated with attempts to play video poker and win a little here and there only to have the machine suck it all back in, stay tuned through the show for this.

SHOW VIDEOS ONLINE – You come to Vegas and see advertisements for shows — “Best of This, Best of That” — and you’ve never heard of these people. Or the person in your office who visited last month says “You gotta see so-and-so.” What are they gonna do … tell you they wasted $75.00? Hell no … not any quicker than they will tell the truth about how much they lost!

We’ve got you covered. We have online streaming videos of almost 20 top shows at All Vegas TV and the viewing price is right: FREE! Simply click over to http://tv.accessvegas.com/videos/shows and preview the shows you want to see.

NEW MESSAGE BOARD – We had to replace our old message board. Unfortunately, we couldn’t save and transfer the posts so we are starting from scratch. Please feel free to post Las Vegas comments or questions to our new board at http://boards.accessvegas.com Here’s the way it works: Before you go on vacation (or if you are just curious) feel free to post questions and comments and then when you get back you can post your comments so that those visiting soon enjoy your knowledge of Las Vegas!

CHIPPENDALES – has opened at The Rio for an indefinite run. It will be interesting to see if having a little equal opportunity for the ladies here is successful for the long term. Details at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=2&id=194

JAZZ FESTIVAL – 9’th Annual City of Lights Jazz Festival takes place Saturday, April 27, 2002 at Hills Park Amphitheater at Summerlin. Summerlin is located in the Northwest Las Vegas Valley. The line up includes invited artists: world renowned Jazz vocalist Randy Crawford; the hottest, multiple award winning horn in Jazz today, trumpeter Rick Braun; the stimulating Jazz keyboards of Brian Culbertson; plus crowd pleasing Urban Jazz Pianist/Vocalist Joe Mc Bride; award winning Smooth Jazz guitarist Joyce Cooling; and hot new saxman from Denmark Michael Lington, plus other artists to be announced. Tickets available at 1-800-969-VEGAS


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!


ITCHING TO GAMBLE – and Vegas is too far but you still want to visit a REAL gaming destination? We offer the same great discounts, guaranteed lower rates, and the $100 Rebate Spectacular for rooms in Atlantic City, Gulfport / Biloxi, and Reno as we do in Las Vegas!

* Reno:
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&Dest=RNO
* Atlantic City:
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=ACY
* Gulfport / Biloxi:
http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&TRK=H1-citylistMore&Dest=BIL

* $100 Rebate Spectacular good on above rooms:
http://www.accessvegas.com/100-rebate.htm

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SHOW REVIEWS:

We’ve got a double dose this issue. Although these shows share the same showroom, they are about as diverse as possible. That is the great thing about Las Vegas — something for everyone! If you are scratching your head going “Where is the Bourbon St. Hotel,” have no fear. It is on Flamingo Rd just behind the Flamingo and Barbary Coast. Look down Flamingo from The Strip and you’ll see — it is closer to The Strip than the Bally’s / MGM monorail.

I LOVE LAFONG – When I first heard that a world famous female comedian and ventriloquist was setting up shop here, I thought “Mmmm … must be one of the new free shows for kids at Circus Circus.” If that crossed your mind also, think again. Michelle La Fong has appeared on HBO, Comedy Central, A & E and is not only one of the top female comedians today but someone who has taken ventriloquism to a new level.

Michele’s show opens with a taped introduction from comedian Jackie Mason who minced no words regarding his love and appreciation of LaFong’s act. La Fong kicks off the show with fast paced impressions of Joan Rivers, Bette Midler, Andrea “Dice” Clay (ya … she does that … you’ve seen it when flipping through the channels and have stopped to laugh) as well as Dr. Ruth. It is during this time we get a taste of her quick, multifaceted comedy along the lines of Abbot and Costello’s “Who’s On First” (which she does with a unique twist on later in the show).

LaFong came to the attention of famed Ed Sullivan regular and ventriloquist Senior Wences just a couple years before his death. So impressed was he that he left his legacy with her in both performance secrets and some of his most prized characters and props. She recently brought his “Johnny” alive in a Mercedes commercial and brings him alive nightly as well.

It is LaFong’s “boyfriend” Paco who steals the show. Paco is her smooth talking puppet with the gold chains, the snappy outfit and chauvinistic patter. La Fong’s strength lies in her ability to make her puppets truly come alive with their own personality. So strong, that you actually feel like you are watching a two person show. If you are a guy, you’d want to go watch the game and have a beer with Paco. If you are a girl, he’s the kind of guy you’d be telling your girlfriend about later going “He was such an ass, but he was kind of funny and charming.”

This is a fun show to go for laughs, but you will walk away impressed and appreciative of these characters that truly came alive before your eyes to entertain you.

I Love LaFong plays at the Bourbon St. Hotel and Casino (on Flamingo Road across from Bally’s). For current times and ticket prices, please click http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=2&showid=276&cityid=1 and enter the dates of your visit to display prices and availability. We have online streaming video highlights of her show in this months April 2002 All Vegas TV episode at http://tv.accessvegas.com

FIELDING WEST: COMEDY, TRICKS, AND NAKED CHICKS – I like Fielding West. I like watching explosions and car wrecks in the movies as well as Las Vegas hotel demolitions live. They call it “controlled demolition” and Fielding West is a “controlled demolition” of a show in a good way. I also like comedy and West keeps the laughs coming with his twists on both traditional and original magic tricks.

West starts by making “Bob the Bird” appear and then proceeds to “torture” him, mystifying the audience while putting a mocking spin on standard animal magic routines. Later, Houdini’s metamorphous is given a similar a unique treatment. This is an illusion standard to most magic shows, where the assistant is wrapped and chained inside a box and then switches places with the magician in the blink of an eye. Except that West is a “failure,” only ending up swapping clothes with the beautiful assistant.

Speaking of … you read the title right. He’s added an adult twist to the show with assistants that spend a fair amount of time sans a top. The only person still yapping about Las Vegas as a family destination is Jay Leno to squeeze another dead joke. Vegas is back to “Boys (or Girls) Night Out” or “Romantic Couple Getaway” and that is who West is successfully aiming his show at. Having said that, this isn’t a strip club nor is the nudity presented in a way to make couples uncomfortable. The night I attended a significant portion of the audience was couple, with plenty of “Boys Night Out” groups as well.

West didn’t skimp when it came to selecting assistants. Natalie Lund was crowned Miss Minnesota in 1999 and competed in the 2000 Miss America Pageant. She has also performed in professional dance companies and appeared in two films with Mickey Rooney. Marcy Parker also dances in Melinda, First Lady of Magic at the Venetian, the Shadow Bar at Caesars Palace and most recently starred as a cheerleader for the XFL Las Vegas Outlaws.

West has written and devised acts for many of the bigger names you are familiar with, and this is a chance to see his off-the-wall comedy and magic at he source.

Fielding West: Comedy, Tricks and Naked Chicks plays at the Bourbon St. Hotel and Casino (on Flamingo Road across from Bally’s). For current times and ticket prices, please click http://www.showvegas.com/svpricing.cfm?amid=143&cscheme=2&showid=341&cityid=1 and enter the dates of your visit to display prices and availability. Sorry guys … no streaming video available on this one!

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

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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

CONVENTION CALENDAR:

Your best hotel deals are the weeks when convention traffic is light. If you are flexible, check our convention calendar at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas-conventions-hotels.htm before choosing the dates of your Las Vegas visit!

FEEDBACK:

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 We do certainly read them all. They help shape our content and we do personally answer specific Las Vegas related questions!




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
* Low Airfare: http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Travel Packages (Hotel/Air): http://www.accessvegas.com/a-travel-center.htm
* Toll Free 24 Hour Discount Room Hotline: 1-800-666-5268

MESSAGE BOARDS – Help others and share your Las Vegas opinions! Our boards are 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

ENJOY THE BEACH! – We know many of our friends in the Midwest and southeast are familiar with the beautiful sugar-white sands of Panama City Beach and Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you aren’t, you should be! These beaches are closer and less expensive than other parts of Florida and continue to be ranked among the best in the world. Get the same great discount rates we offer for Florida also! Learn more about this spectacular area and get your FREE beach scenes screensaver http://www.beautifuldestin.com

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

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

All contents copyright 2002 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
March 27, 2002 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – December 13, 2000

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 40 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

This weekly newsletter is free. This is not spam. If you receive this by mistake, unsubscribe information is at the bottom. Feel free to forward this to friends and associates in it’s 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

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This Issue: Free Las Vegas Stuff

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


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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



 

 


RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

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

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

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

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

CONCERTS AND SHOWS:

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

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

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

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

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

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

Thursday – 56/40 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 60/35 Partly Cloudy
Saturday – 68/38 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 69/36 Mostly Sunny
Monday – 67/35 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Free Las Vegas Stuff

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

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

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

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



 

 


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Calendar winner Cindy Tomasi from Italy wrote:

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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

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

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

FREE CONTESTS:

RULES: (unless otherwise noted or link to outside contest): You may enter every contest, but only one entry to each. The 20’th entry in each contest will be the winner. Send a blank email to the specified email address — we’ll get your mailing address from you only if you win. Also, please do not enter if you have won within the past month.

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

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

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

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

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

Please ask for permission before reproducing the content in any
form — we would just like to know who you are, that’s all. Thanks!

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
December 13, 2000 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – November 29, 2000

WELCOME to Access Vegas News and Reviews, now with subscribers in over 40 countries around the world! This is the official newsletter of http://www.accessvegas.com We talk about the Las Vegas attractions, dining, and shows that YOU really care about.

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 it 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: The Scintas

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


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


LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

FERRIS WHEEL – A group of designers and developers plans to erect what is being billing as the world tallest freestanding carnival ride at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip. Each luxury car will hold 16 people, and the ride once around will take about a half hour, making this a scenic ride as opposed to a thrill ride. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/001122/20/life-vegaswheel

NEW YEAR’S EVE – rooms are going fast and getting scarce. Unlike last year with early price gouging (a world-wide phenomenon) and millennium computer fears deflating demand, this year is ramping up to be the biggest ever with fireworks and a record number of hotel rooms bringing in a record number of people. As of publication time, you can still get rooms on the Strip as low as $149 (The Riviera) at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickcity?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC but don’t delay.

C.S.I – The new “set in Las Vegas” CBS Friday night crime show has turned out to be quite the hit! The creator and principal writer is a Las Vegas resident which leads to some amazing accuracy regarding Las Vegas in the dialogue. Full story on this hot, new show at http://www.pioneerplanet.com/seven-days/5/justgo/docs/035738.htm

COMDEX – blew through town a couple of weeks ago, brining one of the biggest conventions in the world to Las Vegas. If you attended, we hope you had a great time despite the tremendous crowds. Stories at http://www.cnn.com/2000/TECH/computing/11/15/comdex.hot.gadgets/index.html , http://www.al.com/news/huntsville/Nov2000/14-e35989.html , and http://www.pcworld.com/news/article.asp?aid=35143&pg=1

ALADDIN – The L.A. Times recently reviewed Las Vegas’ newest megaresort at http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/lat_aladdin001119.htm As noted in the article, weekday rates run as low as $69 and aren’t always posted on the hotel website. However (as noted in our last newsletter), Aladdin rates as low as $65 a night have been consistently available at http://www.accessvegas.com

HIGH TECH COMMUTE – Forget everything you may read about Las Vegas being a technological hot spot. Top level high tech jobs are so sparse here that many from this area commute to Silicon Valley, a 75 minute flight away. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-12-Sun-2000/news/14742460.html

MCCARRAN AIRPORT RATED #2 – A recent J.D. Power survey tied LAS with DIA as the second best large airport in the nation, based in part on the good signage and ease of getting in and out of the airport. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-14-Tue-2000/business/14817276.html

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

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

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


 


RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Commander’s Palace (Desert Passage) – http://www.latimes.com/travel/vegas/lat_palace001119.htm
* Napa (Rio) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Nov-03-Fri-2000/weekly/14719910.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

Billboard Music Awards – at the MGM Dec. 5’th. Performing are ‘N Sync, Faith Hill, Creed, Ricky Martin, Destiny’s Child, 3 Doors Down, and Mystikal. Presenters are Britney Spears, 98 Degrees, Lil’ Bow Wow, Baha Men, Joe, Eve, Mandy Moore, BB Mak, Pink, Toni Braxton, Matt Scannell of Vertical Horizon, Dido, Brian McKnight, Jessica Simpson, Son By Four, Carnie Wilson, and skateboard hero Tony Hawk. Additionally, Don Henley will present Randy Newman with the annual Century Award, Billboard’s highest award for creative achievement. Tickets available at (800) 929-1111 and MGM discount rooms are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/las-vegas.htm (MGM link).

SHOW REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

* Blue Man Group – http://www.herald.com/content/tue/living/travel/digdocs/095634.htm
* De La Guarda – http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/departments/11_02_00/stage.html

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

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

Wednesday – 69/45 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 64/38 Partly Cloudy
Friday – 68/37 Mostly Sunny
Saturday – 68/38 Partly Cloudy
Sunday – 68/37 Partly Cloudy

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FEATURE STORY: The Scintas

scintas-02.jpg (24236 bytes)What is a Scinta? That was the question when they hit town, and Las Vegas has been finding out in a pretty big way. Pronounced “Shin-tahs,” this family act came to the Las Vegas Hilton eight months ago from Buffalo, New York also making a name for themselves in Cleveland, Detroit, and Chicago along the way.

It is truly a family affair. Frank Scinta is the ringleader, handling much of the vocals as well as live keyboards and guitar. (Except for a couple of numbers which they note, all music is performed live on stage.) Older brother Joe Scinta plays bass and provides the comic relief with his “almost” naughty jokes and hilarious impersonations of his own. “Little sister” Christine Scinta carries the role of a true female lead singer with a gifted voice. “Honorary Scinta” Peter O’Donnell fills out the group as the boisterous drummer, quick with an interesting quip.

This show was one part comedy, one part musical experience, and all parts talent. The three men (Christine appears later) took the stage in the intimate 375 seat Hilton Nightclub to a nice round of applause, and immediately went on a comedy tirade aimed at two separate men in the front row who gave them a less-than-rowsing welcome. It was all in good fun, and after a second entrance, the audience needed no prodding: they already had us rolling in the aisles.

Next came a series of celebrity musical impressions, including Julio Inglesias / Willie Nelson, Frank Sinatra, and Dean Martin / Jerry Lewis. In both bits where they performed as a duo (and throughout much of the show), Joe played foil to “straight man” brother Frank, making up for his passable vocal impressions with a liberal dose of comedic ham in his rolls as Willie Nelson and Jerry Lewis. Frank Scinta is a very capable impressionist, both knocking down the feel of Dean Martin and Julio, and he really shined doing Sinatra’s “My Kind of Town.”

Christine came out and joined them for a medley from Phantom of the Opera, which featured a fantastic duet with brother Frank. The entire group is blessed with great stage presence and charisma, and in addition Frank and Christine both have topnotch voices. In a town where some shows rely (to a degree) on taped vocals for some of the performers, and distracting flash and dash, it was nice to see an honest performance.

Other impressions included Tom Jones, George Burns, Led Zeppelin, Kermit the Frog, Neil Diamond, Mick Jagger and more. I’ve been told that they show changes night to night, and the loose flow of the show had a nice feel to it. One minute one of the impressions would have you in a thoughtful moment and the next, another impression would have you laughing uncontrollably.

This is a fun show by an act that can really entertain, and people of all ages (21 plus) were having a good time. The Scintas play at 8:00 PM Tue. – Thur. and Sunday. Weekend shows are at 9:00 PM. Tickets for Scintas are $28 each and can be purchased in person at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by phone at (702) 732-5755 or (800) 222-5361

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

Teresa from Somerset, England wrote:

>I have just got back from Las Vegas and just thought I would email you
>to say, how great the people are over there, I am disabled and were
>ever I went I was treated as a VIP guest, I have never been to such a
>friendly place.á I even went on the bus with my disabled scooter.
>
>We stayed at the Imperial palace, very nice and helpful, we went to
>see the Legend concert which you have just done a review on, yes it is
>very good, well worth a visit, I must say the best place we liked was
>Paris, although all the Casinos are out of this world.
>
>We had one problem we could not eat the size of the meals, how do they
>eat so much?, we had what they call snacks for our main meals.
>
>The walk ways over to the road are a great idea, as so much traffic, I
>hired a disabled scooter to get around so the lifts across were great
>for me.á If you ever get anybody that is disabled asking about a
>holiday in Las Vegas, tell them to go for it, best place I have been,
>well done to all the people in Nevada.
>
>The only thing I would say is, there was a lot of people we spoke to
>that was complaining about the people you have out on the streets
>giving away dirty books, all over the road they were being left, shame
>as it was so clean everywhere, how come they are aloud to do that in
>the main street,??????
>
>Keep up the good work, love hearing what is going on.

Glad to hear you had such a great time! While there have been attempts by the city and county to stop the distribution of the “Escort Service” magazines, because they generally are not as graphic as a nude magazine, their distribution falls under the United States right to free speech.

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


 


ONLINE POLL – What is your favorite day trip from Las Vegas? Let’s hear your opinions at http://www.accessvegas.com — results will be published in two weeks!

Results from last weeks poll “How do you usually get from the airport to your hotel?”

* I drive to Las Vegas 17%
* I take a shuttle 19%
* I take a cab 40%
* I rent a car 22%
* I hire a private limo 0%

TOP 10 – These are the top ten countries we have readers in. If your country isn’t listed and you have fellow countrymen who are interested in Las Vegas, encourage them to sign up!

1. United States
2. United Kingdom
3. Canada
4. Australia
5. Germany
6. Belgium
7. Netherlands
8. Japan
9. New Zealand
10. Italy

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.

VEGAS VIDEOS – Our new sponsor VegasGifts.Com has is giving us a couple of Vegas videos to give away. If you skipped buying one at the gift shop, or want to share a little of Vegas with your friends, here is your chance. We’ll take the 20’th and 40’th entries at (contest closed). If you need a taste of Vegas to get you through to your next visit, head on over to http://www.vegasgifts.com/partner.asp?REFERER=1356

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

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
November 29, 2000 ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – September 27, 2000

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

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

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

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

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

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This Issue: Splash

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


 


Hello from Portland, OR. Long time readers know that I enjoy escaping the neon and visiting my family a few times a year. I spent the weekend with them on the beautiful Oregon Coast. It is as scenic as you may have heard, and if you want to “steal” a few great beach shots or just enjoy the beach views, head on over to http://www.cannon-beach.net

LAS VEGAS NEWS – of interest to tourists:

IMPLOSION TIME! – That longtime eyesore The El Rancho (north end of the Strip) is getting imploded at 2:30 AM on Oct. 3. This appears to be the last implosion for a long time, so it might be worth the extra Vegas trip. Like you need an excuse to come see us anyway!

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY – New Years Eve may make the news, but Super Bowl Sunday lights up this town like no other weekend. 200,000-plus crazed football fans flood the gambling mecca here to place every kind of bet available (and there are some strange ones) even if their favorite team never made the playoffs. Full story at http://www.dallasnews.com/travel/lasvegas/57749_superbowl.html and you can still grab reasonable rooms ($45 downtown, $55 Strip) for Super Bowl Sunday Las Vegas at http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&us_city=LAS

COMDEX – Speaking of getting a room before you have to offer your first-born in exchange, you can still get rooms downtown for as low as $40 a night (El Cortez) or $100 on the Strip (Sahara) but you better beat the rest of the crowd to http://www.hoteldiscounts.com/cgi-bin/pickinput?SID=IVC&LKF=IVC&us_city=LAS

RESTAURANT REVIEWS – Recent reviews appearing in the media:

Bice (Aladdin Desert Passage) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-13-Wed-2000/living/14331297.html
Desert Passage (various – Aladdin) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-20-Wed-2000/living/14372508.html
Top of the World (Stratosphere) – http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-20-Wed-2000/living/14372339.html
WB 16 (Venetian) – http://lasvegas.citysearch.com/E/V/LASNV/0004/19/83/cs1.html

THE MONORAIL – is coming! $650 million in bonds has been approved, The Venetian has dropped their objections, and it will run from the MGM to The Sahara, helping take people, cars, and buses off of The Strip. Full story at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Aug-30-Wed-2000/news/14271967.html and you can let us know if you are looking forward to it or just plain don’t care by giving us your opinion on a Las Vegas monorail in our current poll at http://www.accessvegas.com

MGM THEME PARK – Our promised review of it this summer never materialized because it is becoming a shell of its former self as the MGM uses the property for other purposes. There is now sincere talk of shutting down the park for good because of the value of the land it sits on. Full story at http://news.excite.com/news/r/000907/15/leisure-mgmgrand

VEGAS RADIO / TV ONLINE – A recent post to http://www.egroups.com/group/Vegas asked about online media availability. You can watch local news online: the KTNV 13 feed is at http://tvnews.broadcastamerica.com/stations/index.phtml?sr=41 (scroll down to KTNV Las Vegas, NV) and KLAS 8 feed is at http://www.klastv.com (scroll down for the LIVE Webcast link). Nine radio stations from the area stream online. Links to these stations are available at http://www.accessvegas.com/tvradio.htm

XFL – The Las Vegas Outlaws of the upstart winter/spring football league now have a website at http://www.lasvegasoutlaws.com

RAT RACE – I flew out of McCarran Wednesday afternoon on my way up here to the Pacific Northwest and had to detour to get to the Delta counter. Why? Because the feature film Rat Race starring Whoopi Goldberg and Cuba Gooding Jr. was shooting at the adjacent ticket counter. Full story on the shoot at http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Sep-25-Mon-2000/living/14451701.html

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

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

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

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Quick Concert and Show Notes:

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

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

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

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

Wednesday – 92/66 Partly Cloudy
Thursday – 95/58 Mostly Sunny
Friday – 95/59 Fair
Saturday – 94/59 Mostly Sunny
Sunday – 93/57 Mostly Sunny

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FEATURE STORY: Splash

Splash has been occupying the somewhat intimate showroom of the Riviera since 1985, revamping itself every few years to keep with the times. The only problem is that the era it is trying to keep with is 1980-something. Unlike the full-on traditional Las Vegas shows like Jubilee and Folies Bergere, Splash is more of what you would expect in a traveling or Indian casino show making itself out to be a “Vegas Style” show.

It all started in true Vegas fashion, with singers and dancers and topless showgirls in feather headdresses making decent use of the limited state space. We were then introduced to “world champion” skaters Irina Grigorian and Kikhail Panin. In the past, Splash was centered on a huge aquatic tank (hence, the name Splash), but now these fine skaters are much the centerpiece, performing on a very sized ice rink in the middle of the stage. Photo link: http://www.lvrj.com/lvrj_home/2000/Jan-07-Fri-2000/photos/lifestyle.jpg

They do the best they can under the circumstances, and put on a number of strong performances throughout the show. The couple performs many of the acrobatic and strength ice stunts you see on televised skating including impressive acrobatic stunts. In one of their later acts, they engage in some eye-opening firestick tossing and juggling, and Irina performs a hula-hoop act that has to been seen to be believed.

If it’s Vegas, you have to have a couple of comedians, and Splash gives us Los Latin Cowboys. They came out pounding on huge drums, and then proceeded to show their skill with bolo balls, which lead to picking on male member of the audience (there with his wife) with gay-tinged jokes about “balls.” Fortunately, once they quit the jokes, they put on quite a display of bolo and tap.

The middle of the show lagged with 4 scenes featuring impersonators: Madonna, Michael Jackson, Cher, and John Travolta. Each featured the impersonator “singing” or dancing to a real video of the actual song shown on big video screens at either side of the stage. While the actual entertainer was surrounded by dancers and a simple set, I found myself spending more time watching the screens, and you can do that at home.

Splash featured other specialty and novelty acts, such as a talented contortionist and a tap-dance duo consisting of one live human and a laser computer-generated showman. Each specialty segment was interesting, but often went on long past where the novelty had worn off. Each performer was talented in their own right, but that didn’t bring the show together in any cohesive way.

The night was concluded with the Thunderdome, a “Globe of Death” featuring four motorcyclist who ride at the same time, spinning around the inside of an eighteen foot steel ball. Pretty impressive, and certainly one of the highlights. It was also one of the few acts where the host wasn’t imploring the audience to step up the applause.

I probably took twice as many notes at Splash as I usually do. Was it that good of a show? No, I was that bored. This could be a solid, riveting show, with the 95 minutes comfortably trimmed to a fast-paced hour-plus (and the price dropped $10) by dropping the lame impersonator scenes. They don’t do justice to the impersonators, and if we are looking for that style of entertainment, we can go see Legends in Concert (Imperial Palace) or American Superstars (Stratosphere).

If you are going to spend real money to see a real 90 minute Las Vegas show, go see Jubilee at Ballys or Folies Bergere at The Tropicana. I’d give Folies a very slight edge, but both are worth your time. My reviews of each are at:

Folies Bergere – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-03-29.htm
Jubilee – https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/00-07-26.htm

The exception? If the wife has been bugging you to go to one of those touring “Olympic Skaters On Ice” shows (over your dead body), but is reluctant to go to a somewhat risque Las Vegas show, this is a good compromise. She gets her romantic figure skating and you get your traditional topless Vegas showgirls.

Splash plays every night at 7:30 and 10:30 PM at The Riviera. Tickets are $46.75 and $57.75 including tax. More info and advance ticket purchase is available at http://www.vegasguide.com/detail_shows.cfm?ID=34&amid=143&cscheme=5

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:

I goofed. I left the “Letters to the Editor” file at home. So … look for them next week!

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

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.


 


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

Results from last weeks poll “Do the recent tragedies involving Las Vegas tourists (casino shooting and tour bus accident) make you more wary of coming to Las Vegas?”

Yes, I feel Las Vegas is getting unsafe. 17%
Maybe, It makes me think twice. 23%
No, I won’t give it a second thought. 59%

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.

VIVA LAS VEGAS – Collectors items! These tickets to the Viva Las Vegas show at the legendary Sands Casino. Enter by emailing us, in order, what five Las Vegas hotels have the most rooms. Winners will be chosen at random from correct entries. E-mail answers to vivacontest@in-vegas.com Contest ends Sept. 30, 2000

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

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

All contents copyright MM Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
September 27, 2000
ISSN: 1529-2770

Access Vegas Insider Vibe – May 27, 1999

AccessVegas.com Insider Vibe

Free Las Vegas Newsletter

Archived Edition:
News, reviews, and advertising offers are current at time of publication.
Updated Las Vegas Information: Click Here

May 27, 1999

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. Feel free to forward this to friends, but only in it’s entirety.

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This Issue: Robbie Knievel’s Grand Canyon Death Jump
Part II of our Venetian Grand Opening Review

Curious about a buffet, event, or other Las Vegas attraction that look fun but you just haven’t gone out of your way to try yet? Let us review it for you first! Suggestions are always welcome at: accessvegas@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


As many of you may have seen on American TV last, week, “Kaptain” Robbie Knievel successfully set a world record in a “live for television” jump at the Grand Canyon, only to crash once he came off of the end of the landing ramp, breaking a leg and 2 ribs. While no bets were taken, the jump was on many sports book big screens around town.

The craziest thing about this whole event was the fact that just after the landing ramp sat ungraded desert terrain. While the agreement with the local Indian tribe (BLM and National Park Service wanted no part of this) specified upsetting as little of the area as possible, a couple hundred dollars more worth of plywood covering the natural desert would have saved him quite a bit of pain.

Having had to pleasure to see his Las Vegas “Building to Building Death Jump” from one Jockey Club tower to another earlier this year, and then to be present at the after-party at the Hard Rock hotel for Robbie and crew, I can tell you that he and is group are some of the nicest, most down to earth people out there. Of course, when every show could be your last, one is probably more conscious to leave people smiling! The newspaper story (with photos) is available at:

LINK EXPIRED

The motorcycle and leather gear from that jump are now on permanent display that the Tropicana Hotel’s Casino Legends Hall of Fame.

All the best in recovery and continued jumps, Robbie.

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Feature Story: The Venetian (continued from last week)

The casino seems small for a property of that size, but it might just be an illusion. This isn’t a casino you are going to get lost in. You don’t feel like you are a rat trapped in a maze. It is not a locals casino, with an emphasis on dollar slots and $5 table minimums on the weekdays. (VP players — 9/6 dollar jacks or better available).

Unlike Mandalay Bay, there is not an overabundance of bars, with only an ornate circular bar toward the center and another one at the sports book. A third is located in La Scena (the lounge area), which showcases top, professional lounge acts from 6:00 PM until 2:00 AM in an upscale upscale atmosphere. Drink prices are in line with other major hotels, running from $2.75 for a domestic bottle to $5.50 and $6.50 for top shelf call drinks. (There may be an entertainment tax surcharge in the lounge — a very common thing here in Las Vegas).

The sportsbook is adequate, but certainly wasn’t built to cater to much more than the hotel guests.

Dining options include an nice food court and a “coffee shop”. The food court has a McDonalds, Subway, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, and Baskin Robins … almost. It has generic, slightly upscale version of each with prices running about $2-3 higher than the average above chains. The atmosphere is top notch, with seating facilities more resembling a decent restaurant than a food court. Not a bad place to enjoy a $5 hamburger.

The “coffee shop” is actually a yuppie dining establishment named Grand Lux Cafe, featuring “unique casual global cuisine”. And they aren’t kidding. I’ve seen novels shorter than this menu. Crabcakes to Korean tacos, pastas, chicken, lamb, cajun shrimp, fresh fish provenca, martinis, and significant wine list and much, much more.

The Union — not a lot to say. No picketing, and informal conversation with employees ranging from security to dealers found them quick to volunteer how happy they are with the wages, benefits (that don’t cost them a dime), and the fact that they don’t pay union dues. So, far this has absolutely NOT turned into a “Frontier” type situation.

I’d be remiss without mentioning the cocktail waitresses. (WARNING: Don’t shoot the messenger — I’m just reporting it like it is). Unlike other casinos who were burdened with promoting to their new properties based on seniority, Mr. Adelson took advantage of the fact he was hiring fresh for every position. This includes the cocktail waitresses. On an average swing shift, there is not a waitress who couldn’t walk right out and get a print modeling job. Rumor has it that he “raided” the most attractive ladies from every casino in town. The unique uniforms flatter the ladies in every way, and The Venetian seems to make no apologies for using the waitresses as an integral part of the whole visual feel of the property. They one-upped the Rio.

As mentioned in part one of this article (available at
https://las-vegas-news-reviews.com/access-vegas-insider-vibe-may-20-1999/ ), there is indication that Steve Wynn may feel concerned about being upstaged. Mirage Resorts was slated to begin construction on their next mega-resort on the site of the Holiday Inn Boardwalk around 2002. Just this last week, they announced plans to start moving on the project in a much shorter time frame. The official reason is that Las Vegas is absorbing all of the new hotel rooms better than expected, but that’s a stretch considering that the Aladdin and Paris both have yet to come online and The Venetian is just now running at full occupancy.

Bottom line in my opinion? Mr. Wynn’s company has the land and the cash flow and he will not rest until he has the most elegant property in town again. If you want to bet on him, Mirage Resorts stock is publicly traded.

We have a full pictorial section on the Venetian at Las Vegas Venetian Hotel Casino Photos

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Best prices for hotels and rental cars in LAS VEGAS and NATIONWIDE are available at http://www.accessvegas.com Our sister site offers secure online booking and INSTANT confirmation. Don’t spend hours on the phone. Book today the easy way and save!

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Your input is welcome. Don’t agree with something we said? Write us a “letter to the editor” at allvegastv@aol.com Guest article submissions are also welcome with full credit to you, your website, etc. 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 pull out our own wallet and give you the honest scoop.

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All contents copyright 1999 Ted Newkirk
May 27, 1999

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