stupid questions from a Vegas virgin
LuckyBoy
So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s during
the day?
Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the odds
of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places? For a
fee? If so, how much?
How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do they
run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say, the
heart of the strip?
Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show? Best
rollercoasters/rides? Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay $100 for
a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm just
trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm going
to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting flights.
Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
Thanks,
LB
ChasProLTD
>Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
I've always had good luck with Priceline. Though it seems as though there are
endless fees now, whereas there used to be just a standard one.
On flights I got where I didn't like the times (usually later than I wanted) I
would just go standby for the flight I did want.
Chase
PS I'm a Vegas virgin, too and will be in Vegas Saturday!!!!!
Generic
"LuckyBoy" <LuckyBo...@newsguy.com> wrote in message
news:ca00v...@drn.newsguy.com...
> you've been warned!
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
during
> the day?
More like mid 90s or higher. www.weather.com
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera?
Everywhere has basic cable with about 15-25 channels. Pay-per-view costs
more. Those are lower-end Strip hotels and not close to the action.
>What are the odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places?
For a
> fee? If so, how much?
See recent thread on this topic. Probably yes for a nominal fee.
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do
they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
Never tried them. I always drive and strongly recommend a car to average
first-time tourists. The advantage is that you can go off Strip and set
your own schedule--without high taxi fees. You can visit Red Rock Canyons
and Hoover Dam any time. The city bus runs all hours too.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say,
the
> heart of the strip?
I always have a car.
>Best
> rollercoasters/rides?
The rollercoaster at New York New York. There are a few others in town too
(Sahara, Circus Circus and a sucky little one on top of the Stratosphere
tower). The Big Shot tower drop on top of the Strat is quite good.
>Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
CC yes. There are extensive arcades at Excalibur and NYNY too.
> Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
$100 for
> a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
The Italian station at the Aladdin buffet?
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm
just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
http://www.a2zlasvegas.com/
http://www.lasvegasadvisor.com/
If you plan on gambling:
http://wizardofodds.com/
1. Stay on the Strip between Treasure Island and Mandalay Bay. Consider
Bally's, Harrah's, Flamingo, TI or Luxor before Sahara or Riveria. Read the
reviews at Cheapovegas.
2. Rent a car.
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm
going
> to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting
flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
In my experience they rarely have the best deals. Try all the big names
(Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Orbitz.com, etc.) as well as the travel
section in your Sunday paper.
-John
BR Eagle
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
during
> the day?
HOT, but that's dry heat. 90s most likely during the day
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the
odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places?
For a
> fee? If so, how much?
Never stayed at either, but would bet yes on cable, no on fridge
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do
they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
CAT(bus 301) runs 24/7.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say,
the
> heart of the strip?
Never use cabs. Cheaper to rent a small car. Shuttles can be a nightmare.
> Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show?
I'll be AIA to say three words...Mac King Comedy Show
>Best rollercoasters/rides?
NYNY, Sahara and top of the Stratosphere....friend went to the top of the
Strat for the ride on last trip and was scared ****less. He loved it
Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
Yes, and NYNY.
> Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
The Best of Bottom's Up at the Flamingo. Showgirls of Magic at San Remo was
good too.
> Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
$100 for
> a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
? Olive Garden?
>
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm
just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
Join Las Vegas Advisor. POV is worth the annual fee. Rent a car, which will
allow you to get maximum us of POV... Use Valet Parking.
>
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm
going
> to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting
flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
You could lose two days using Priceline (come in late, leave early). We
never use it anymore. Fly Southwest. You can almost always find a good
fare.
> Thanks,
You are welcome.
> LB
>
Andrew in Alabama
EVERYTHING to your dumn ass???
>you've been warned!
At least you warned us.
>So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s during
>the day?
>Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the odds
>of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places? For a
>fee? If so, how much?
There will be cable, but the channel selections in Vegas hotels are
designed to bore you into the casino. Don't expect much except the
basics.
Most hotels will provide a fridge, if they have them, upon request.
>How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do they
>run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
They are limited. Taxis are easier, but are not cheap. I don't
recommend cars to first time visitors.
>Good, cheap magic shows?
I sound like a broken record, but you must see the Mac King Comedy
Magic Show, afternoons at Harrah's. You can see it for $7 per person
with a coupon available at the slot booth. Grease the maitre'd with
$5 or $10 and get seated at the tables near the front.
You can thank me later.
>Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
>the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
>Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
Excalibur.
>Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
See Mac King, above, or some of the many comedy clubs around town.
>Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay $100 for
>a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
Olive Garden.
Most hotels have an Italian place that will fit your needs.
>Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
>links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm just
>trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
>newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
Cheapovegas.com is the best out there.
Enjoy your trip, and for asking all these newbie questions (hey, at
least you didn't ask where the best buffet was) you owe us a lenghty
trip report.
Andrew <-- is it JUNE yet?
"Whatever happens in Unincorporated Clark County stays in
Unincorporated Clark County."
(Steve Harder-Kucera in alt.vacation.las-vegas)
LuckyBoy
>
>I've always had good luck with Priceline. Though it seems as though there are
>endless fees now, whereas there used to be just a standard one.
>
>On flights I got where I didn't like the times (usually later than I wanted) I
>would just go standby for the flight I did want.
>
>Chase
>
>PS I'm a Vegas virgin, too and will be in Vegas Saturday!!!!!
Thanks, Chase. About the new Priceline fees . . . does it add an extra $20-$30
to the total, or $50+?
I hope you have a blast, and I hope to read all about the trip here soon!
LB
LEC
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
during
> the day?
>
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the
odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places?
For a
> fee? If so, how much?
>
I like the Sahara (over the Riv) for a bargain hotel. Chief downside is
that it is a hike to the central strip, but it's not bad and there are
things to see and visit on the way. TV is pretty limited, it isn't a full
cable line-up, just the basics. Don't think the Sahara has fridges except
maybe their suites or on request. For a bit nicer room nearer the main
strip check Bally's, Monte Carlo, and Luxor (but that's getting further
south).
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do
they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
>
There are busses running all the time, but they can be crowded. The
much-heralded monrail should be running by then and might be a good way to
cover some ground. Plus, I think the Sahara is going to have a stop.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say,
the
> heart of the strip?
>
Cab, $10-12 bucks. Depends on traffic and route. I think shuttles are
about $6 each. If you don't rent a car and there are two or more of you, a
cab is a good deal.
> Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show? Best
> rollercoasters/rides? Are there any carnival-type places there . . .
water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
>
Rick Thomas at the Tropicana. Afternoon show, very good. You can often get
2/1 coupons by spinning a promotional slot machine out front of the Trop, or
by signing up for their slot club. Penn and Teller (if you like their
style) for a higher end show.
Sahara has a coaster, as does NYNY. Circus is the place for the games
(heavily populated by kids).
> Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
Not sure.
>
> Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
$100 for
> a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
Just about every hotel has an Italian restaurant. I don't really have a
recommendation except I didn't like the one at Ceasars.
>
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm
just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
Cheapo is a good site, and pretty much on the money. Also, check out
http://www.ratelasvegas.com/
you can get a lot of reviews of hotels, restaurants and shows there.
>
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm
going
> to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting
flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
No experience with Priceline. I always just book the air and hotel directly
with the providers. Start looking now and get a sense of a good airfare,
lock in when it looks good. You can book the hotel now (directly) and
change if rates get lower (they often do) or change to a different hotel if
you want.
>
> Thanks,
>
> LB
>
You're welcome
LC
Thomas Smith
"LuckyBoy" <LuckyBo...@newsguy.com> wrote in message
news:ca00v...@drn.newsguy.com...
> you've been warned!
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
during
> the day?
>
Expect mid 90s. Evenings will be in the 60s. See www.weather.com for more
information.
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the
odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places?
For a
> fee? If so, how much?
>
Most hotels have around 25 channels of cable TV. Most of your major
channels are represented such as ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CNN, ESPN, CNBC, etc.
There will be a selection of pay-per-view movies, including adult movies, at
rediculious prices. One annoying thing about hotel TVs, expecially high-end
hotels, is that whenever you turn on the TV, you're automatically taken to
the Pay-Per-View preview channel regardless of what channel you had it on
when you turned the TV off. I'm not sure about a mini-fridge, but you could
call your hotel and ask.
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do
they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
>
The most frequent service is provided by Citizens Area Transit (CAT), the
local mass transit agency. There are two routes operating on the strip, the
301 and the 302. Both routes operate from the Downtown Transportation
Center to the South Strip Transportation Terminal south of McCarran Airport
(and the strip) along Las Vegas Blvd.. The 301 bus runs 24/7 and runs every
15 minutes between 1:00 am and 5:30 am, and every 10 minutes all other
times. The 302 bus runs every 20 minutes between 10:40 am and noon, and
every 15 minutes between noon and midnight. However, this route only stops
at the Downtown Transportation Center, Fremont Street, Charleston Blvd.,
Stratosphere Tower, Circus Circus Hotel, Mirage Hotel, Bellagio Hotel,
Excalibur Hotel, and the South Strip Transportation Terminal southbound, and
the South Strip Transportation Center, Tropicana Hotel, Flamingo Hilton,
Sands Ave., Riviera Hotel, Stratosphere Tower, Charleston Blvd., Fremont
St., and the Downtown Transportation Center northbound. The fare for these
routes is $2.00 per trip, but a $5.00 all day pass can be purchaded on board
the bus. The pass will give you unlimited rides for one day. For more
information on these routes, see
http://www.rtcsouthernnevada.com/cat/routes/301/index.htm and
http://www.rtcsouthernnevada.com/cat/routes/302/index.htm.
There is also a monorail under construction. It is scheduled to open later
this summer, but no date has been set. The last I've heard is they are just
about finished working out some software bugs in the system that will
control the trains. It will have stops at Sahara, Las Vegas Hilton, Las
Vegas Convention Center, Harrah's/Imperial Palace, Flamingo/Caesers Palace,
Bally's/Paris, and MGM Grand. The fare is planned at $3.00 per trip with
multi-ride and weekly passes availabe. For more information, see
www.lvmonorail.com.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say,
the
> heart of the strip?
>
For information on shuttle service from the airport, see www.bell-trans.com.
Expect a cab to cost $15 to $20 one-way from the airport to a north strip
hotel. Do not take a taxi to another destination on the strip. Traffic on
the strip is horrible, and you'll be charged for sitting in traffic. Use
the bus information above for strip destinations. If you plan on doing any
travel off the strip, consider renting a car.
> Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show? Best
> rollercoasters/rides? Are there any carnival-type places there . . .
water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
>
New York-New York has a large carnival midway. The best roller coaster is
at New York-New York, although the ones at Sahara and Circus Circus are both
supposed to be good. While there is a roller coaster at the top of the
Stratosphere Tower, there is a better thrill ride there called the Big Shot.
The best way to describe this ride is to think of those "test of strength"
games at carnivals where you would hit a lever with a hammer and send a ball
up a post to ring a bell. Now, imagine what it is like to be the ball, and
that is the Big Shot. Oh, by the way, did I mention this ride starts 1,000
feet up in the air?
If you're a Trekkie (Trekker), check out the Star Trek Expierence at the Las
Vegas Hilton. You're beamed aboard the USS Enterprise (VERY neat, by the
way) and chased back to the Hilton by renegade Klingons in a shuttlecraft
(motion simulator ride). [NOTE: If that sentence didn't make any sense to
you, than feel free to pass.] There are supposed to be good motion
simulator rides at Caesers Palace and Luxor, too.
As for good comedy/magic shows, I've heard good things about Penn and Teller
in the Rio hotel. It is supposed to be a combonation comedy and magic show.
> Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
>
> Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
$100 for
> a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
>
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm
just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
>
You may want to go to your local Barnes and Noble and get a copy of "The
Unofficial Guide to Las Vegas - 2004 Edition" by Bob Sehlinger (Wiley
Publishing Co., $17.99 MSRP) or "Frommer's Las Vegas - 2004 Edition" by Mary
Herczog (Wiley Publishing Co., $16.99 MSRP). Also, see if you can track
down a good map of Las Vegas. The best one, at least from a tourist
perspective, is "Streetwise Las Vegas". Look for the one that was revised
in 2003 or later.
One note, you may see reviews for Siegfried and Roy. Unfortunately, one of
the white tigers they use in their magic act turned on Roy on October 3,
2003 and seriously injured him. He is still in the hospital undergoing
rehab. The magic show has been closed indefinately, and most likely
permanately from what I understand.
Other good links are www.vegasfreedom.com for the Las Vegas Convention and
Visitors Bureau for a listing of current shows. I've seen good information
at www.vegas.com and www.lasvegas.com, and check out www.lvrj.com for the
Las Vegas Review-Journal, the main newspaper in Las Vegas.
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm
going
> to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting
flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
>
Check out www.biddingfortravel.com for information on what to bid, and what
that will get you. While I haven't used www.priceline.com for Las Vegas,
I've used them for hotels in other cities and been pleased with what I got.
> Thanks,
>
> LB
>
Hope this helps.
Tom Smith
ChasProLTD
>
>Thanks, Chase. About the new Priceline fees . . . does it add an extra
>$20-$30
>to the total, or $50+?
I think around $40...I tried Priceline for this trip...couldn't find my price,
but they did come back with a couple of good deals (5 Star luxury for
$124...normally, I would have jumped all over that, as I do to my trips to NY,
but being in Vegas for the first time, I decided to choose my hotels.) Also, SW
had airfare for $158 round trip from New Orleans...Priceline wouldn't beat it
at the time and I wasn't willing to gamble and wait til the last minute.
FYI: I travel to NY a couple of times a year and always use Priceline to book
$100 round trip air and $100 a night hotel near Times Square.
Chase
Albert Giesbrecht
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
during
>
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? No, and all
they show is I Love Lucy.
What are the odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places?
2:1
Shawn Hearn
LuckyBoy <LuckyBo...@newsguy.com> wrote:
> you've been warned!
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s
> during the day?
Google is your friend. Go to http://www.google.com and search for "Las Vegas
weather" and you will have your answer.
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the
> odds of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places? For
> a fee? If so, how much?
Check the web sites for those hotels. Other than for pay per view
movies, I have never heard of a hotel anywhere that didn't offer cable
tv or satelite for free. In Las Vegas casinos, the channels seem to be
very limited because they want you to be gambling, not inside your room
watching television. By the way, who goes to Vegas to watch TV anyway?
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do
> they run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
The only shuttle I know of that serves the entire Strip runs until around
1:00am daily and costs something like $1.65 per ride. There's also the
city bus system that runs all night with service up and down the Strip.
If you do a web search for "las vegas shuttles" I am sure you can find
detailed information.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say,
> the heart of the strip?
A cab would cost around $15 with a tip, but that's total, even if the
cab is full. If you're traveling alone and you are not in a great hurry,
a shuttle is the cheapest option to travel between the hotels and the
airport. I belive the shuttles charge somethink like $5 each way, so if
you are three or more people, a taxi is going to be more cost-effective
and much faster since the taxi ride will be direct.
> Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show? Best
> rollercoasters/rides? Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water
> in the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
Its a matter of personal taste. Lanse Burton at the Monte Carlo has a
wonderful magic show, but tickets sell out quickly. Check the Monte
Carlo's web site for ticket availability and pricing and book quickly
because Burton tickets typically sell out quickly for each night's show.
> Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
Depends on your sense of humor. Mac King is funny to me, so is the Improv
at Harrah's. Check http://www.cheapovegas.com for information on shows,
hotels, and most any other tourist aspect of Las Vegas.
> Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay $100
> for a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
There are tons of good Italian restaurants in your price range. There are
also extremely few restaurants in Las Vegas that require formal attire.
Olive's might fit your bill. Its very good. Olives is in the Belagio. You
don't have to dress formal there, but don't come in looking like you are
ready to go to the beach either.
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links. The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com. I'm just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
Read through the cheapovegas site; it has tons of usueful information
there.
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm
> going to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
If you have so many specific requirements for a flight, then you may
regret using priceline. If you don't want to fly with at least one stop
or depart early in the morning, check individual airlines' web sites for
those that fly out of the airport you'll be using, then check the major
travel booking web sites such as travelocity, orbitz, expedia, and so on.
You didn't say where you are leaving from so it is not possible to give
specific airline recommendations.
SundialMan
to the airport when I leave town. Cab ride from mid-Strip would be $10 plus
tip.
DocTCW
>hotels, is that whenever you turn on the TV, you're automatically taken to
>the Pay-Per-View preview channel
True, Thomas, but then for many this is an improvement over the time not long
ago when Hotel/Casinos failed to give you an option to rent a movie in your
room. They would much prefer that you be downstairs.
Tom
salmoneous
> the day?
Hot. Averge high in the mid 90's. Check out this guys page:
http://lasvegasregion.com/lvtemps.html
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places? For a
> fee? If so, how much?
Call the hotel and ask. In general, most hotels give give you about
10-20 channels, local's + CNN + Weather Channel + a few cable
entertainment channels.
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
I find it a PITA. My time in Vegas is precious and can't be wasted
dealing with shuttles. Rent a car unless you are going to be drinking.
If you are going to be drinking, just take cabs.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say, the
> heart of the strip?
Cab. Should be about $12. Be sure to tell the cab driver "no tunnel"
when giving your destination if you want the best price.
> Good, cheap magic shows?
Rick Thomas. Also, if you are going during the week, there is
sometimes a *great* free magic show at one of the lounges in the Monte
Carlo. Check their website for details.
> Any "must-see" high-end magic show?
The shows are pretty pricy, and not really all that amazing compared
to what you see on TV.
> Best
> rollercoasters/rides?
In town, the best the the Big Shot on top of the Stratosphere. The
best in the region is in Primm, about a 30-40 minute drive. Well worth
it if you are a coaster fan.
> Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
CC is the only place I know that still has it. A few other casinos
did, but have pulled out the "kiddy" stuff nightclubs and whatnot.
> Which show(s) should I catch for the best laughs?
Get a list of who's playing at the Comedy Clubs from the free
magainzes. If you've heard of anyone, go see them.
> Even if you've got only one suggestion, please post it. That includes any
> links.
Must link for a newbie is www.cheapovegas.com
> The only site I've got bookmarked now is cheapovegas.com.
Er, nevermind
> I'm just
> trying to make my first trip to Vegas as enjoyable as possible. Also, any
> newbie tips in general would be greatly appreciated as well.
A) Don't try to do everything! There's never enough time. Besides,
after your first trip, you'll be aching to come back. You can do the
rest of the stuff on your list then.
B) If you go when it's hot, take all the warnings seriously. Stay out
of the sun, drink lots of water, etc. No sense wasting your time
feeling miserable.
> Also, I'm looking at booking my trip through Priceline.com . . . but I'm going
> to pick my flight. I'm not leaving at 6AM, and having 2 connecting flights.
> Anybody have any experience booking through Priceline.com, good or bad?
Heard lots of bad things about priceline for flights, generally good
stuff for using them for hotels. For everything you ever wanted to
know abuot priceline and hotels, check out www.biddingfortravel.com
> Thanks,
>
> LB
PS - If you get any decent advice here, you owe us a trip report when
you get back :)
Jill in NH
There is much, much more to Las Vegas and vicinity than just casinos. We
ALWAYS rent a car in order to do all the sight-seeing available. There is
some specatacular scenery to be seen, and really great htings to do. Rent a
car and get a good map and you will be able to make much more out of your
trip than "just" gambling, shows and restaurants. ;-) JMO.
I don't know where you live, but for many of us, LV is not just warm but
HOT!!! And dry! Bring a hat, Chapstick, sunscreen and be sure to drink
plenty of water-not booze-when you're going to be outside for any length of
time.
Good luck and have a great time...
jill
Annie
Yes, but not that many channels. Forget exactly which ones tho ...
>The Riviera?
Yes, but not that many channels. Forget exactly which ones tho ... :)
>Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
>$100 for a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
I like the one right by the Liberace Museum, Carluccio's (sp?). My dad
turned us on to that one years ago.
As for Battista's, people either love it or hate it. I'm kind of in the
middle of neutral to liking it, but it's not a must-do.
I was pleasantly surprised at the Pasta P{something} (Palace? Pirate?)
over at Palace Station. I expected it to be mediocre, but it was really
good, at least I thought so.
I've also heard good things about one at the Orleans, but never seem to
get over there.
Jill in NH
"Annie" <an...@Maps.On.ivgate.omahug.org> wrote in message
news:annie.10...@ivgate.omahug.org...
>
> >Best relatively low-end italian food? I don't want to dress up, or pay
> >$100 for a meal. I'm talking like $20-$30 per person, without drinks.
>
> I like the one right by the Liberace Museum, Carluccio's (sp?). My dad
> turned us on to that one years ago.
>
> As for Battista's, people either love it or hate it. I'm kind of in the
> middle of neutral to liking it, but it's not a must-do.
>
> I was pleasantly surprised at the Pasta P{something} (Palace? Pirate?)
> over at Palace Station. I expected it to be mediocre, but it was really
> good, at least I thought so.
>
> I've also heard good things about one at the Orleans, but never seem to
> get over there.
We ate at Sazio's at The Orleans last Sept. I would not recommend it,
although there was a thread on this a while back and some have enjoyed it.
The pasta in my entree was watery (something I absolutely hate!!), the
shrimp were so over-cooked they were like rubber. The veal in my husband's
dish was inedible. As I remember, the club soda was fine...
jill
David Bowers
>
> So what's the weather like middle/late September? At least the mid-80s during
> the day?
>
we are talking the desert here where it has been known to get into
three digits in May.
> Is there cable tv in the rooms at the Sahara? The Riviera? What are the odds
> of getting a little fridge in a standard room at either of these places? For a
> fee? If so, how much?
Cable TV? You mean there was a TV in my room. . :) Seriously two
trips, and I haven't even turned on a TV in a vegas hotel room. Most
hotels will offer a tiny dorm-room sized fridge for an additional fee.
Hotels that offer honor bars don't often have enough room in the
fridge for personal items after they stock it full of drinks.
> How easy is it to get around via shuttles? How often to they run, and do they
> run all night? I'm talking like from one end of the strip to the other.
>
Depends. Some casinos offer courtesy shuttles to each other. I can't
comment on those. For all around general purpose transportation, you
have the Strip Troller ($1.75/ride), runs about every 15-20 minutes.
Be aware the trolleys are not large and can often fill up, they also
are subject to traffic conditions, and they often also drop you off at
the casino's drop-off area which is convenient if that's where you are
going, but eats more time if thats not where you are going. Several
stops are designed to be for multiple casinos.
Next option is city bus (the CAT) Route 301 (Local) and 302 (Express),
$2.00/ride, runs every 5 minutes or so during the day, and every 15
minutes during the late night. These are also often busy, they stay
mainly on Las Vegas Blvd. but are subject to traffic conditions. The
301 especially has a lot more stops than the trolley and can usually
get you closer to where you want to go. It's a city bus, with
atmosphere just like a city bus in any other town. On both the
trolley and bus the drivers are usually tourist friendly and call out
points of itnerest for each stop. Another nod for using the bus is
that the 301 goes to Freemont St. (a must see), whereas the Trolley
does not.
If you are lucky the Monorail may be open by September. Projected
fare is $3.00 a ride, serves the Strip only, its big selling point
will be it is immune to traffic conditions on the Blvd.
If you have 3 or 4 people Taxis begin to make sense. A taxi from
North Strip to Freemont St. is approx $10 one way. (Given an honest
driver, that is the lowest I have paid, I have gotten taken for
$15-$20 rides for the same thing))
Feet are free and sometimes just as quick given the traffic
conditions, be awarethat the pancake flat terrain and clear visibility
often plays tricks on you making things look a lot closer than they
actually appear. All in All I think the Strip is about 4 miles long.
> To and from the airport: cab or shuttle? How much would a cab be to, say, the
> heart of the strip?
Shuttle is about $4-$5 to any Strip hotel (one way, they will cut you
a slight deal for a round trip booking, if you book RT be sure to be
clear on the protocol for arranging your return ride, of you book one
way, your hotel guest service desk should be able to make the
arangements with 24 hr. notice of your departure time. Leave 3 hours
before your flight, the Vegas airport highly recommends you get there
2 hours in advance, and you want some cushion for traffic and a late
arriving shuttle)
A cab from the Riviera to the Airport ran us $15. (plus tip) We had
three in the car so it broke even with the shuttle and was a lot more
convenenient.
Be aware that you often can't hail cabs from the street. Cabs report
to the doormen of the various casinos, which will have taxi lines. Is
is customary to tip the doormen $1 for hailing you a taxi.
>
> Good, cheap magic shows? Any "must-see" high-end magic show? Best
> rollercoasters/rides? Are there any carnival-type places there . . . water in
> the clowns mouth, put the ring around the coke bottles, etc. I'm assuming
> Circus, Circus has stuff like that. Any other places?
>
Rides -
Stratosphere Tower: High Roller Coaster (the coaster on top of the
tower, it circles the tower), Big Shot (Air powered laucnh and drop
ride on top of the tower, X-Scream a weird ride that makes it look
like it is going to take you with it off the edge of the tower deck) -
Best deal is the $25.95 package for tower access and unlimited rides.
They have so many combo packs for rides and tower I can't begin to
cover it all.
Speed the Ride at the Sahara - $10 for one go, $20 for all day access.
Adventuredome at Circus Circus - full amusement park mostly aimed at
kids, has a looping coaster (Canyon Blaster) and amusement park style
rides. $21.95 for all day access. ($6 per ride on the coaster if
purchased ala carte)
Manhattan Express at New York New York - $12 per ride - 200'+ tall
looping coaster.
Star Trek Experience at Las Vegas Hilton - $30 - Its a must stop for
any Trekkie.
Email me if you want more detail on the rides aspect.
Circus Circus has carnival games in both the Adventuredome and the
second floor of the casino (Midway), Excalibur has carnival games in
the basement "Fantasy Faire" of the casino.
-
Oh and bring lots of $1 bills, the town lives on tips.
Nicholson
"David Bowers" wrote in message >
> Next option is city bus (the CAT) Route 301 (Local) and 302 (Express),
> $2.00/ride, runs every 5 minutes or so during the day, and every 15
> minutes during the late night. These are also often busy, they stay
> mainly on Las Vegas Blvd. but are subject to traffic conditions. The
> 301 especially has a lot more stops than the trolley and can usually
> get you closer to where you want to go. It's a city bus, with
> atmosphere just like a city bus in any other town. On both the
> trolley and bus the drivers are usually tourist friendly and call out
> points of itnerest for each stop. Another nod for using the bus is
> that the 301 goes to Freemont St. (a must see), whereas the Trolley
> does not.
Let me add to David's advice (incase someone else has not yet) that you
can buy an all day pass on the City bus (CAT) for 5.00. It is good for
24 hours. And remember that they don't give change, so don't plan on
handing over a 20 unless you want to donate!
have a great time!!
Cheryl
LuckyBoy
been very helpful.
LB