Las Vegas Trip Report 24.04.08 - 06.05.08
I have been typing up my blog on the laptop. If Day 1 is anything to go by, it will be of epic proportions with us being away for 12 nights so I have decided to post it here every couple of days
I have tried to include prices and info that may be useful for first time visitors as it is easy to forget that not everyone is a Vegas Veteran. Hope it's not too boring, but this is as much for my benefit as I will be able to look back and reminisce seeing as this is our only trip to Vegas this year.
For the 3 days before leaving I was up from 5.15am Monday, 4.00am Tuesday and 5.40am Wednesday. I'm always like this a couple of days before going to Vegas and must be more excited than I realise.
Thurs, 24.04.08: Up at 3am after going to bed at 1am. I've only had 17 hours sleep over the last 4 nights so hopefully I'll sleep for most of the 10.5 hour flight.
Left home at 4.00am for the 45 mins drive to Aberdeen Airpark where the car was booked in at £4.00/day. More expensive that most other airports where there is more competition, but a lot cheaper than parking at the airport. I had booked online with FHR via Quidco and the Airpark didn't have a record of the booking, but it wasn't a problem when they saw the printed confirmation. 5 mins later we were on the shuttle bus for the 5 mins journey to Dyce Airport.
We were flying to Manchester with bmi and there was a girl directing us to the Self-Service Kiosk. She scanned our passports and pressed all the buttons so it wasn't really self-service. Seat numbers popped up on screen for MAN-LAS and she commented that we must have pre-booked them, which we had, and carried on pressing buttons. I noticed that the seat numbers were 31F&G (2 in the middle) when I had booked 27H&K (2 at the side). Too late, she tried to go back, but was a few screens further on and the boarding cards had printed. Had to go to the Check In desk to drop our bags and managed to get the seats changed there to 25A&C.
I stayed land side so I could have a cig and hubby went through security. We are both Silver Diamond Club members which gives us free access to the Servisair Lounge at Aberdeen and Diamond Club lounge at Manchester. Through security in 5 mins and the departure lounge was quite busy. Met hubby in the lounge and had orange juice, coffee and pretzels. There were also beer, wine and spirits, but only pre-packed cake and biscuits to eat. Our flight was called and off we went. Left on time at 6.55am, arrived early at T3, but we had to wait for a parking slot.
Found the Diamond Club Lounge and the girl there entered our passport and boarding card details in the computer to save us having to do it at the Gate with us transferring. She also entered our API (Advance Passenger Information) even though I'd done it online when I booked the flights back in November. The lounge was quite busy and there were cornflakes and croissants available, otherwise the choice was the same as Aberdeen. I was looking forward to going online with the free wifi. However there were 2 connections available and I couldn't connect with either of them. No-one else was using their laptop and that was probably why. Very disappointed, but I started my blog instead.
Our flight was called about 9.10am and we were escorted to Gate 44. Had to answer extra security questions as we had transferred then we boarded in good time for the 9.50am departure. Then the captain announced that, due to Air Traffic Control, we wouldn't be leaving till 10.30am. Found that hubby's seat was broken. It kept reclining and wouldn't stay upright. We really didn't want to move as we would have been much further back, probably in the middle and at the back of the immigration queue. The FA said we would have to move as it was a safety issue. However less than 5 mins later 2 engineers boarded the plane and fixed it. Phew!
It had been my intention to stay awake till after the meal was served and then hopefully sleep most of the way to Vegas. However I was so tired I slept as soon as the safety briefing was over. The meal was served about 2 hours into the flight - salad, choice of sausage and mash, chicken curry and rice or butternut squash risotto. The sausage and mash were finished by the time they came to us even though we were only 6 rows from the front of the economy cabin. There was a very nice chocolate dessert, a chunky Kit Kat, water, cheese and biscuits. There was a proper glass for the wine rather than a plastic one, but everything else was plastic. Slept again for a couple of hours and didn't bother with the IFE which was via seatback TV's. There seemed to be a good choice of films, but they weren't on demand.
Flight landed at 12.45pm, deplaned and walked to Immigration. We had cleared Immigration and Customs and had our luggage by 1.15pm. No queue for the taxi and we were on our way to the Imperial Palace for 3 nights. Politely asked the driver not to take the tunnel and he said, "Which tunnel? Doh. However to make up for not taking the tunnel, he took us the long way. We ended up at the back of the Venetian and instead of taking us in the back way to the IP, he went onto Flamingo again and came in the front. Hubby was getting annoyed, but I wasn't bothered. I knew the fare should be $15-16 and I was going to give him $20 inc tip regardless so the longer he took, the less his tip was going to be.
There was quite a queue at check in, but it moved quickly. We had requested a deluxe king smoking with a pool view, but it was down as a request for a pool side room so we were allocated room 215 on the 2nd floor with access to the pool from the patio doors. However the room wasn't ready and we were told that check in was between 4 & 6. As it was now 2.15 we envisaged a long wait. They did say to check back in an hour. Played the slots for ½ an hour, checked and the room was ready. That was a bonus after the long journey.
We didn't need to use the elevators to get to the room and it was one floor up a flight of stairs from the casino. Got to the room and the keys didn't work. Fortunately a bellman was going by so we asked him for assistance. He struggled to open the door with his master key and said it was probably that the battery in the lock was low. Called the front desk and they said they'd send maintenance who came within about 10 mins. The lock was fixed quickly.
The room was a bit smaller than previous rooms and the bathroom was very small, but it was clean and it would do us as we aren't picky. A king bed, 2 bedside tables, 3 drawers with TV above, small table and 2 chairs. In the bathroom there were Gilchrist & Soames soap, shower gel and shampoo. There is wifi available at $9.99 for 24 hours.
Quickly unpacked, got changed, made a cup of tea and then hit the Strip. Went up to Harrah's to see if they were handing out coupons for Harrah's buffet, but the coupons were for the Flamingo buffet which we're not that keen on. Walked down to Planet Hollywood and had a hot sandwich and tea from Earl of Sandwich. One sandwich and 2 teas - $10.40 inc tax. Played the slots for a while then walked down to Tix4Tonight to see what they had on. We had planned to see Carrot Top on Sunday, but found out he is on vacation. You can book same day tickets for shows, but the tickets for dinners and buffets are good for 7 days. Walked back to Bill's and watched Big Elvis. Only heard one song as the guy who was introducing him yapped for ages. Big Elvis (Pete Vallee) has lost 500lbs in weight and is intending losing another 150lbs. He's still big, but used to be massive. Went to Flamingo and gambled there. When I say we gambled, it means we played the slots. There was someone handing out coupons for Harrah's buffet outside Flamingo so we got a couple. Felt exhausted, but wanted to keep going till a decent time to get over the jetlag.
Didn't feel at all excited to be back in Vegas and actually didn't feel 100%. I think it was just lack of sleep, jetlag and dehydration as I drank very little on the plane.
Gambled at the IP then went to the Teahouse. Hubby has the Steer and Beer offer which was an 8oz prime rib and beer for $15.95. It came with soup or salad and was really good. I just had coffee and a bit of his prime rib as I wasn't really hungry. Finally gave in and went to the room at 8.30pm. Updated my blog and went to bed at 9.30pm (5.30am UK time) after being up 26.5 hours. Woke at 1.30, tried to sleep again, but only managed till 2.15 when I got up and went on the internet for 3 hours. Back to bed and slept till 7.
Fri, 25.04.08: Woke at 7, went to Denny's for breakfast, hubby had the Grand Slam, and I just had one of his pancakes, chocolate milk and coffee. Bill was $16. Got chatting with a very nice couple from Oklahoma.
Went to check out the new Palazzo hotel which only opened at the end of January. With the Venetian, it's the biggest hotel resort in the world with 7000 rooms and 50 restaurants, bars and cafes. Very nice indeed. Gambled there for a while and cocktail service was non-existent. Moved to machines in another and it was excellent. A glass of Pinot Grigio, which would cost $10 in a restaurant, for the price of a $1 tip. Had a couple then switched to coffee. Must have gambled for quite a while on $20 as we had 3 drinks. Picked up our tickets for the Jersey Boys a week on Sunday from the Box Office.
Went to Tix4Tonight at the Fashion Show Mall and got half price tickets for Legends in Concert at the IP. Had a coupon for $2 off the service charge and the tickets were $28.95 each and that includes a drink. Also booked dinner at Bally's Steakhouse with them. For a $3 fee you get 50% off entrees. They also had Flavors buffet at Harrah's for $16.99 for dinner Mon-Fri and you could get breakfast, lunch or dinner at Le Village buffet at Paris for $9.99/$12.99/$19.99 Mon-Thurs. There are few other restaurants including the 40/40 Club at the Palazzo. You can buy the dinner tickets up to 7 days ahead.
Went to Macy's and got the 11% discount card for out-of-state visitors. You normally need photo ID, but they didn't ask for it this time or in November. Hubby got a Calvin Klein shirt for $20 which would have cost £45+ at home. I hate shopping, but I'm sometimes OK about it away from home. Wasn't in the mood today so that's all we bought.
Went back to the Palazzo and checked out Carnevino and Cut restaurants for my birthday. Filet Mignon was $39 at one and $50 at the other with the other entrees a lot more expensive. Saw the wine list at Carnevino and it had bottles at $1500! Think they may be too upscale for us so will probably go to Mon Ami Gabi as usual.
Got chatting with an English couple while we were looking at the menus. They were staying at Circus Circus and had only arrived at 3am after a 27 hour journey. It was their first visit and they hadn't done any research so we passed on some tips. They were amazed that drinks were free while gambling.
Wandered back to the IP and got some beers for the room at the gift shop. I think it was $13.50 for 6. Back to the room and I went on the internet for a couple of hours while hubby was at the pool. I'm not a sun worshipper so staying in suited me fine. Tried to have a nap around 4pm, but couldn't sleep. Got ready to go to the show at night.
Gambled for a while and did quite well on a Goldfish machine. Legends was pretty good as usual. Saw Jay Leno, Barry White, Madonna, the Temptations and of course Elvis. The British girl who won The One and Only reality tribute show in the UK as Dusty Springfield starts in the show on 16 May. Was glad when the show was over though as I was struggling to stay awake sitting in the dark.
Gambled for a bit then went to the Teahouse. Hubby had the Steer and Beer again and I had an omelette. With 2 coffees the bill was $34. Gambled on a few different machines then went to the room around 10.30.
Ooops! Got there and hubby couldn't find his room key. My one was in my other bag so we were stuck. Knew we'd need photo ID to get another key and that was in the room too. Went to the front desk and they accepted hubby's work pass with his photo and gave us new keys. My ankles are really swollen and I don't usually suffer with that so don't have any water tablets with me. Will get from CVS tomorrow if they're no better. Updated my blog and went to bed about 1. Woke again at 2.30 and got up for ½ an hour. Ankles really sore.
Went to check out the new Palazzo hotel which only opened at the end of January. With the Venetian, it's the biggest hotel resort in the world with 7000 rooms and 50 restaurants, bars and cafes. Very nice indeed. Gambled there for a while and cocktail service was non-existent. Moved to machines in another and it was excellent. A glass of Pinot Grigio, which would cost $10 in a restaurant, for the price of a $1 tip. Had a couple then switched to coffee. Must have gambled for quite a while on $20 as we had 3 drinks. Picked up our tickets for the Jersey Boys a week on Sunday from the Box Office.
Went to Tix4Tonight at the Fashion Show Mall and got half price tickets for Legends in Concert at the IP. Had a coupon for $2 off the service charge and the tickets were $28.95 each and that includes a drink. Also booked dinner at Bally's Steakhouse with them. For a $3 fee you get 50% off entrees. They also had Flavors buffet at Harrah's for $16.99 for dinner Mon-Fri and you could get breakfast, lunch or dinner at Le Village buffet at Paris for $9.99/$12.99/$19.99 Mon-Thurs. There are few other restaurants including the 40/40 Club at the Palazzo. You can buy the dinner tickets up to 7 days ahead.
Went to Macy's and got the 11% discount card for out-of-state visitors. You normally need photo ID, but they didn't ask for it this time or in November. Hubby got a Calvin Klein shirt for $20 which would have cost £45+ at home. I hate shopping, but I'm sometimes OK about it away from home. Wasn't in the mood today so that's all we bought.
Went back to the Palazzo and checked out Carnevino and Cut restaurants for my birthday. Filet Mignon was $39 at one and $50 at the other with the other entrees a lot more expensive. Saw the wine list at Carnevino and it had bottles at $1500! Think they may be too upscale for us so will probably go to Mon Ami Gabi as usual.
Got chatting with an English couple while we were looking at the menus. They were staying at Circus Circus and had only arrived at 3am after a 27 hour journey. It was their first visit and they hadn't done any research so we passed on some tips. They were amazed that drinks were free while gambling.
Wandered back to the IP and got some beers for the room at the gift shop. I think it was $13.50 for 6. Back to the room and I went on the internet for a couple of hours while hubby was at the pool. I'm not a sun worshipper so staying in suited me fine. Tried to have a nap around 4pm, but couldn't sleep. Got ready to go to the show at night.
Gambled for a while and did quite well on a Goldfish machine. Legends was pretty good as usual. Saw Jay Leno, Barry White, Madonna, the Temptations and of course Elvis. The British girl who won The One and Only reality tribute show in the UK as Dusty Springfield starts in the show on 16 May. Was glad when the show was over though as I was struggling to stay awake sitting in the dark.
Gambled for a bit then went to the Teahouse. Hubby had the Steer and Beer again and I had an omelette. With 2 coffees the bill was $34. Gambled on a few different machines then went to the room around 10.30.
Ooops! Got there and hubby couldn't find his room key. My one was in my other bag so we were stuck. Knew we'd need photo ID to get another key and that was in the room too. Went to the front desk and they accepted hubby's work pass with his photo and gave us new keys. My ankles are really swollen and I don't usually suffer with that so don't have any water tablets with me. Will get from CVS tomorrow if they're no better. Updated my blog and went to bed about 1. Woke again at 2.30 and got up for ½ an hour. Ankles really sore.
an on the spot reporter- what a great idea for HT It was nice of Van to pay for your holiday
Luci I like it but...............
We haven't actually taken many photos as we've photographed everything possible on previous trips.
Mind you a few photo's of the inside of the Palazzo wouldn't go amiss.
Im just about to book the IP for friends who have decided to join us in November and we still have some comps left so can get them the deluxe room or deluxe love tub room for free.
Which one Luci is ok.
John
Although we've never staying in one, if you can get a deluxe Luv Tub room then I think I would take that. You can see photos of them on the IP website. We've had a glance inside one and there is a huge tub in the bedroom. Apparently it takes about 30 mins to fill.
As long as your friends are not expecting 5* luxury for a 3* price then the IP is fine. It's obviously not a patch on the more upscale hotels in Vegas, but we like to stay here at the weekends for the price and location. The casino is always busy and the slots seem looser here.
I have photos of the normal deluxe room in the Photo Gallery.
luci
Luci - did you book Jersey boys before you went to LV? Thanks
We booked the cheapest seats at $70.70 inc $8 service charge and they are in the centre of the balcony. The show has had a soft opening and the official opening is Saturday, 3 May I think. We are going on the 4th.
If anyone is going soon and looking to book for Ka, http://www.travelzoo.com have $165 tickets for $82. I toyed with going to see it, but saw Mystere and decided that Cirque is not my thing.
luci
Thanks - who did you book it through ?
Re Jersey Boys- You will be singing those songs for days afterwards..... it looks like a good show from the Promos I have seen...
I booked direct with the Palazzo via their entertainment link.
Sat, 26.04.08: Woke at 6, ankles not so sore, but still swollen. Had a cup of tea. The dual voltage travel kettle is one of the best things we ever bought. Still not hungry enough to justify a buffet so went to La Salsa Cantina in the Miracle Mile for their $3.95 breakfast. It didn't open until 9am at the weekend so gambled at the PH till then. Slots were tight until we moved to a Goldfish machine and drinks service was non-existent. Back to La Salsa, got 2 eggs, choice of bacon, sausage or ham, potatoes and tortillas. With 2 coffees and 1 juice it was $16.
Went to CVS and got some water tablets to try and reduce the swelling. We noticed a big difference in the City Center Project construction as all of the buildings seem to be up now, but it still has a long way to go. The development is massive, between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo.
Went to New York New York, gambled a while, but the slots were tight there too. Got a coffee and a tea and hubby said the coffee was disgusting and he couldn't drink it. Got offered a drink while playing.
Cross the bridge to the MGM. Saw the lions and they were really active for a change, playing with a ball. Found the front lobby and sussed out whether it was viable to take the monorail when we change hotels tomorrow, but decided against it. Took the monorail back to the IP. One trip is $5, a 2 trip ticket is $9, an all day pass is also $9 and you can get a 6 trip ticket at the moment for $20.
Back to the IP at 11.30, hubby went to the pool and I updated my blog and went on the internet. A burger and fries poolside was $15. Toyed with going to see Fab Four Mania at the Sahara, the Beatles tribute, but decided against it. We've seen it 3 times when it was at the V Theatre. Had a nap and felt more tired when I woke than I had before sleeping.
Gambled at the IP and the casino was jumping same as last night. Couldn't hit a thing on Mermaid's Gold, moved to a Hot Hot Penny machine and we both did well. Drinks service was excellent and we were offered 3 times before our drinks were finished. Went to Flavors buffet at Harrah's for dinner.$18.99 each with a $5 coupon. Service wasn't very good, but the food was fine. The Clam Chowder was delicious then we had prime rib and lamb followed by carrot cake. The casino was really busy there too.
Back to the IP and gambled a while before going to bed at 11 as I was shattered. Woke at 12.30, but managed to get back to sleep.
Went to CVS and got some water tablets to try and reduce the swelling. We noticed a big difference in the City Center Project construction as all of the buildings seem to be up now, but it still has a long way to go. The development is massive, between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo.
Went to New York New York, gambled a while, but the slots were tight there too. Got a coffee and a tea and hubby said the coffee was disgusting and he couldn't drink it. Got offered a drink while playing.
Cross the bridge to the MGM. Saw the lions and they were really active for a change, playing with a ball. Found the front lobby and sussed out whether it was viable to take the monorail when we change hotels tomorrow, but decided against it. Took the monorail back to the IP. One trip is $5, a 2 trip ticket is $9, an all day pass is also $9 and you can get a 6 trip ticket at the moment for $20.
Back to the IP at 11.30, hubby went to the pool and I updated my blog and went on the internet. A burger and fries poolside was $15. Toyed with going to see Fab Four Mania at the Sahara, the Beatles tribute, but decided against it. We've seen it 3 times when it was at the V Theatre. Had a nap and felt more tired when I woke than I had before sleeping.
Gambled at the IP and the casino was jumping same as last night. Couldn't hit a thing on Mermaid's Gold, moved to a Hot Hot Penny machine and we both did well. Drinks service was excellent and we were offered 3 times before our drinks were finished. Went to Flavors buffet at Harrah's for dinner.$18.99 each with a $5 coupon. Service wasn't very good, but the food was fine. The Clam Chowder was delicious then we had prime rib and lamb followed by carrot cake. The casino was really busy there too.
Back to the IP and gambled a while before going to bed at 11 as I was shattered. Woke at 12.30, but managed to get back to sleep.
Sun, 26 April 2008: Woke for good at 4.30, both had a cup of tea. On the internet for a couple of hours. Called for a late check out and couldn't get through to the front desk for 15 mins. Went down and gambled for a couple of hours. Cocktails service excellent again and I had 4 coffees in just over an hour.
Went to the Teahouse for breakfast. Hubby had the Steer and Beer again, I had grilled chicken and pasta, both very good. With coffees the bill was $38. Back to the room, packed, hubby went to the pool. We had a late check out till 12. We were going to check out via the TV, but that stopped at 11 so we checked out at the desk and there was no queue.
Got a taxi to the MGM, $10 inc tip. Check in was busy, but we were seen within 5 mins. Handed over the passport, credit card and $20 and ask if there were any complimentary upgrades. The clerk said there weren't, but we could upgrade to a Bungalow Suite for $40/night which I declined. He later offered us a room in the West Wing, but I had read that these rooms were smaller than the Grand Tower so I declined that too.
I had booked a package I had seen on Fat Wallet, stay 3 nights pay for 2 and it included 2 free drinks at the West Wing Bar and a $25 credit towards food and drink at a restaurant. You charge these items to your room and it is taken off the bill. The room was only $69/night so only $207 for the 4 nights. The clerk kept the $20 even though he didn't give us an upgrade. We were pleased though that the room was ready at 12.30.
We were allocated Room 330 on the 6th floor. A really nice big room with a king size bed, with 4 big pillows, a bolster and a duvet. There was a sofa, 2 chairs, a marble coffee table and a marble desk. There was a 28" TV in the armoire and below it there were 3 small drawers, 3 shelves and the safe. There was a double built-in wardrobe which housed the iron and ironing board. The bathroom was a good size with a wall between the toilet and the sink. The bath was slightly sunken and didn't look very deep with shower over. There was a large window and we could see the Tropicana, Mandalay Bay, THE Hotel, Luxor, Excalibur, New York New York and the Manhattan Express rollercoaster. There is wired or wireless internet access in the room at $13.99 for 24 hours which is charged to the room.
Quickly unpacked and went to suss out the pool area. It was massive and there were thousands of people at the various pools. It was beautifully landscaped and a great place to do some sunbathing if that's your thing. There were plenty of bars serving frozen drinks and beers at around $10 and $7.
Gambled for a while on Goldfish and did really well. Drinks service was good although the cocktail waitress took a while to come back which I expected with the size of the place. The casino was very busy.
I was really tired with being up from 4.30am so went for a nap for a couple of hours. Really struggled to wake and again felt worse than I had before I slept. The bed was extremely comfortable and the pillows soft, but thick.
Went to look for something to eat. Looked at the Studio Cafe, but thought it was very expensive for a coffee shop. Checked out the West Wing Bar where cocktails were $12. Went out the door next to the bar and went to the Food Court upstairs from the Grand Canyon Experience. Both had a Panda Express meal of 2 entrees and a side dish. With 2 orange juices it was $20 and it was just enough food for my small appetite.
Back to the MGM and gambled on a 3 Witches machine which I've never seen before. Did well again and got a bonus round of 10 free spins. While it was spinning I got another 2 bonus rounds so 30 free spins in all with a total win of 2775 credits. I still wasn't feeling too good after the nap so went to bed around 9.30. Woke a couple of times then got up at 2.30 and went on the internet for a couple of hours. This jetlag is killing me. Back to bed at 4.45am.
Went to the Teahouse for breakfast. Hubby had the Steer and Beer again, I had grilled chicken and pasta, both very good. With coffees the bill was $38. Back to the room, packed, hubby went to the pool. We had a late check out till 12. We were going to check out via the TV, but that stopped at 11 so we checked out at the desk and there was no queue.
Got a taxi to the MGM, $10 inc tip. Check in was busy, but we were seen within 5 mins. Handed over the passport, credit card and $20 and ask if there were any complimentary upgrades. The clerk said there weren't, but we could upgrade to a Bungalow Suite for $40/night which I declined. He later offered us a room in the West Wing, but I had read that these rooms were smaller than the Grand Tower so I declined that too.
I had booked a package I had seen on Fat Wallet, stay 3 nights pay for 2 and it included 2 free drinks at the West Wing Bar and a $25 credit towards food and drink at a restaurant. You charge these items to your room and it is taken off the bill. The room was only $69/night so only $207 for the 4 nights. The clerk kept the $20 even though he didn't give us an upgrade. We were pleased though that the room was ready at 12.30.
We were allocated Room 330 on the 6th floor. A really nice big room with a king size bed, with 4 big pillows, a bolster and a duvet. There was a sofa, 2 chairs, a marble coffee table and a marble desk. There was a 28" TV in the armoire and below it there were 3 small drawers, 3 shelves and the safe. There was a double built-in wardrobe which housed the iron and ironing board. The bathroom was a good size with a wall between the toilet and the sink. The bath was slightly sunken and didn't look very deep with shower over. There was a large window and we could see the Tropicana, Mandalay Bay, THE Hotel, Luxor, Excalibur, New York New York and the Manhattan Express rollercoaster. There is wired or wireless internet access in the room at $13.99 for 24 hours which is charged to the room.
Quickly unpacked and went to suss out the pool area. It was massive and there were thousands of people at the various pools. It was beautifully landscaped and a great place to do some sunbathing if that's your thing. There were plenty of bars serving frozen drinks and beers at around $10 and $7.
Gambled for a while on Goldfish and did really well. Drinks service was good although the cocktail waitress took a while to come back which I expected with the size of the place. The casino was very busy.
I was really tired with being up from 4.30am so went for a nap for a couple of hours. Really struggled to wake and again felt worse than I had before I slept. The bed was extremely comfortable and the pillows soft, but thick.
Went to look for something to eat. Looked at the Studio Cafe, but thought it was very expensive for a coffee shop. Checked out the West Wing Bar where cocktails were $12. Went out the door next to the bar and went to the Food Court upstairs from the Grand Canyon Experience. Both had a Panda Express meal of 2 entrees and a side dish. With 2 orange juices it was $20 and it was just enough food for my small appetite.
Back to the MGM and gambled on a 3 Witches machine which I've never seen before. Did well again and got a bonus round of 10 free spins. While it was spinning I got another 2 bonus rounds so 30 free spins in all with a total win of 2775 credits. I still wasn't feeling too good after the nap so went to bed around 9.30. Woke a couple of times then got up at 2.30 and went on the internet for a couple of hours. This jetlag is killing me. Back to bed at 4.45am.
Coooooeeeeeee Luci where are you.
I'm here John. Didn't get on here much yesterday as we were out and about.
My favourite machine is the Double Diamond with cheese and if you go to Caesars and walk over the the gold members desk near to the lifts to the forun tower there is bank of them there
I've been playing mostly Goldfish as I seem to get a lot of bonus round and do quite well on them. Have also played Wheel of Fortune, Memaid's Gold, Quick Hits, Life of Luxury Progressive, Jackpot Party Progressive and Hot Hot Penny.
Mon, 27 April 2008: Woke at 6, but managed to get back to sleep till 7.30. Got ready, went to Excalibur and took the monorail to Mandalay Bay. Went to the Bayside Buffet for breakfast, $15.99 each. Not the biggest buffet I've been to, but there was still a very good choice and the quality was excellent. Biggest doesn't mean best. Had smoked salmon and trout with trimmings, fresh strawberries and blueberries, corned beef hash and I really liked that the Hollandaise Sauce for the Eggs Benedict was separate and fresh. Hubby also had steak and prime rib. The chocolate milk and orange juice were both very good. I really enjoyed this buffet.
We couldn't find our way out of the hotel for love nor money. Asked a croupier and she directed us to the monorail so we took it back to the Excalibur. Got the Deuce from there to the LV Outlet Centre south of the strip, $2 one way or $5 for a 24 hour pass. It now goes direct to the Outlets instead of changing at the SSTT. Got there about 11am and it took about 20mins from the Excalibur. I hate shopping, but can put up with it away from home.
It didn't look like we were going to buy much, but we eventually got a few things. Picked up a VIP discount card at the Information Desk. Best bargain was 2 pairs of Calvin Klein jeans for $55 with 20% off the first pair with the discount card. With tax they worked out about £13.50/pair. I got a pair of Skechers Mary Jane's at $50, hubby got Timberland shoes for $50 and a Quiksilver polo shirt for $20, got 2 pairs of Tommy Hilfiger infant's shoes for baby presents at $20 each and a Quiksilver T-shirt for a gift for $13.
We were very lucky when we left as there was a huge crowd waiting for the Deuce and 3 arrived just as we got to the stop. Changed at the SSTT and got back to the MGM about 3.20. Got a dozen Coors Light at the Grand Canyon Experience for $18.99 and headed back to the room.
Decided to go to Caesars and we were lucky with the Deuce again as there was one filling up as we got to the stop outside the Grand Canyon Experience. Went to the IP first and gambled for a while. Went to the liquor store at Carnival Court and bought a bottle of Johnny Walker's whisky for Bob, our casino host at the IP. Went back to the IP and found him in the High Limits area. Had a nice chat and he said the IP is to remain open for at least the next 4 years. They have almost finished remodelling the rooms with only the 3rd floor to be done.
Went to Caesars and gambled for a while on Jackpot Party Progressive and did OK. Went to Cafe Lago for dinner. The soup was good as was the turkey and pork, but the prime rib was tough. Desserts were very good. $24.99 each. We were disappointed as it has always been good. Gambled a while longer then took the Deuce back to the MGM. Managed without a nap today as I decided it made me feel so lousy it wasn't worth having one and managed to stay up till 11.30.
We couldn't find our way out of the hotel for love nor money. Asked a croupier and she directed us to the monorail so we took it back to the Excalibur. Got the Deuce from there to the LV Outlet Centre south of the strip, $2 one way or $5 for a 24 hour pass. It now goes direct to the Outlets instead of changing at the SSTT. Got there about 11am and it took about 20mins from the Excalibur. I hate shopping, but can put up with it away from home.
It didn't look like we were going to buy much, but we eventually got a few things. Picked up a VIP discount card at the Information Desk. Best bargain was 2 pairs of Calvin Klein jeans for $55 with 20% off the first pair with the discount card. With tax they worked out about £13.50/pair. I got a pair of Skechers Mary Jane's at $50, hubby got Timberland shoes for $50 and a Quiksilver polo shirt for $20, got 2 pairs of Tommy Hilfiger infant's shoes for baby presents at $20 each and a Quiksilver T-shirt for a gift for $13.
We were very lucky when we left as there was a huge crowd waiting for the Deuce and 3 arrived just as we got to the stop. Changed at the SSTT and got back to the MGM about 3.20. Got a dozen Coors Light at the Grand Canyon Experience for $18.99 and headed back to the room.
Decided to go to Caesars and we were lucky with the Deuce again as there was one filling up as we got to the stop outside the Grand Canyon Experience. Went to the IP first and gambled for a while. Went to the liquor store at Carnival Court and bought a bottle of Johnny Walker's whisky for Bob, our casino host at the IP. Went back to the IP and found him in the High Limits area. Had a nice chat and he said the IP is to remain open for at least the next 4 years. They have almost finished remodelling the rooms with only the 3rd floor to be done.
Went to Caesars and gambled for a while on Jackpot Party Progressive and did OK. Went to Cafe Lago for dinner. The soup was good as was the turkey and pork, but the prime rib was tough. Desserts were very good. $24.99 each. We were disappointed as it has always been good. Gambled a while longer then took the Deuce back to the MGM. Managed without a nap today as I decided it made me feel so lousy it wasn't worth having one and managed to stay up till 11.30.
Tues, 29 April 2008: Managed to sleep until 5.30 without waking so getting better or so I thought. However I'd been up over an hour and it was still 5.45 so I'd been up since 4.30! I will just be getting into Vegas time when it's time to go home then will have to contend with the dreaded jetlag again then. Back to bed.
Woke at 7.30. Checked my account on the TV and noticed I've been charged twice for internet access yesterday. Had a problem with the plug in the sink, reported it to the maid and maintenance fixed it while we were out.
Took the Deuce to Planet Hollywood, gambled for a while then had breakfast at the Spice Market buffet, $14.99 each. Good selection and they are the only buffet I've found who do fruit smoothies. The salmon and prime rib were good, but I was too stuffed to have a freshly made crepe. Service wasn't good in our area. The waitress took ages to offer us drinks and never came back to offer us more coffee. She seemed more interested in grabbing the tips off the tables than with clearing them. This was one of the rare occasions when we didn't leave a tip.
Gambled at PH for a while, didn't do well on the first Goldfish machine, but did on the one next to it. Went to Paris and gambled there until Mon Ami Gabi opened at 11.30. Did well on a Quick Hits machine and so did the lady sitting next to me. She was playing max bet at $3 a spin and was putting in $100 a time which is too rich for my blood.
Booked MAG for my birthday next week for 7pm with the idea that it will be nearer 8 till a patio table is available. However it is forecast to be windy on Monday so we may opt to sit inside after all. Walked down to Tix4Tonight at the Hawaiian Marketplace, but the queue was massive so we carried on to the one beside the Giant Coke bottle. There was still a big queue there, but I was directed straight to the front with my VIP line pass, which also gave us $2 off each. Opted for the VIP tickets to Defending the Caveman at the Golden Nugget tonight at $35 each which includes a free T-shirt. Handed over my Nationwide Gold credit card and it was declined! I have used it on 6 previous trips to Vegas, where I have spent a lot more on it than I have this time and have never had a problem before. Luckily I had cash on me as the rest of the cards were in the safe.
Back to the MGM. For the record, as someone was asking on a forum, the Champion's League Semi Final was being shown at both the Paris Sports Book and the one at MGM, no need to go to the Crown & Anchor. It was even being shown on the TV in the room.
Called the Nationwide re the credit card being declined and was on for over 30 mins before it was answered, at £1.10/min from my mobile. By this time I was raging. They said it may have been a problem with the merchant rather than the card itself as there was no problem with the account. They suggested trying to use it again. I will be trying to get a refund for the cost of the calls from them, but don't hold out much hope.
Called Front Desk about being charged twice for internet access and it took ages to answer. They said it would be taken off at check out, but I asked if they could take it off now as I want to do Express Check Out.
Left at 5.30 and we were lucky again that there was a Deuce bus at the stop when we got there. The strip was heaving with traffic and we got to downtown 50 mins later. Picked up our show tickets then went to Binion's Steakhouse to book a table for after the show. Gambled in Binion's and turned $20 into $82 on a Goldfish machine. Cocktail service was excellent and we had 2 huge glasses of wine within ½ an hour.
Crossed the street to the Golden Nugget and picked up our free T-shirts before the show. We had seats in the 3rd row, but any seat would be OK as it's a small theatre. What I saw was funny, but ¾ a bottle of wine on an empty stomach took its toll and I slept through most of it although hubby enjoyed it. The show finished at 9.15.
Went to Binion's Steakhouse and we were seated right away by the window which had a great view. The restaurant was really dark with the only lights being candles on the tables. I had the Petite Filet Mignon, hubby had the 16oz rib eye and we both had baked potato with sour cream and bacon. The steaks were really good, tender and full of flavour. I was too tired to have dessert so with one beer and coffees the bill was $70 which I thought was excellent as I expected it to be more.
The queue for the Deuce was massive with about 100 people waiting, but it moved quickly. The trip back to the MGM took about 40 mins. Up to the room and straight to bed.
Woke at 7.30. Checked my account on the TV and noticed I've been charged twice for internet access yesterday. Had a problem with the plug in the sink, reported it to the maid and maintenance fixed it while we were out.
Took the Deuce to Planet Hollywood, gambled for a while then had breakfast at the Spice Market buffet, $14.99 each. Good selection and they are the only buffet I've found who do fruit smoothies. The salmon and prime rib were good, but I was too stuffed to have a freshly made crepe. Service wasn't good in our area. The waitress took ages to offer us drinks and never came back to offer us more coffee. She seemed more interested in grabbing the tips off the tables than with clearing them. This was one of the rare occasions when we didn't leave a tip.
Gambled at PH for a while, didn't do well on the first Goldfish machine, but did on the one next to it. Went to Paris and gambled there until Mon Ami Gabi opened at 11.30. Did well on a Quick Hits machine and so did the lady sitting next to me. She was playing max bet at $3 a spin and was putting in $100 a time which is too rich for my blood.
Booked MAG for my birthday next week for 7pm with the idea that it will be nearer 8 till a patio table is available. However it is forecast to be windy on Monday so we may opt to sit inside after all. Walked down to Tix4Tonight at the Hawaiian Marketplace, but the queue was massive so we carried on to the one beside the Giant Coke bottle. There was still a big queue there, but I was directed straight to the front with my VIP line pass, which also gave us $2 off each. Opted for the VIP tickets to Defending the Caveman at the Golden Nugget tonight at $35 each which includes a free T-shirt. Handed over my Nationwide Gold credit card and it was declined! I have used it on 6 previous trips to Vegas, where I have spent a lot more on it than I have this time and have never had a problem before. Luckily I had cash on me as the rest of the cards were in the safe.
Back to the MGM. For the record, as someone was asking on a forum, the Champion's League Semi Final was being shown at both the Paris Sports Book and the one at MGM, no need to go to the Crown & Anchor. It was even being shown on the TV in the room.
Called the Nationwide re the credit card being declined and was on for over 30 mins before it was answered, at £1.10/min from my mobile. By this time I was raging. They said it may have been a problem with the merchant rather than the card itself as there was no problem with the account. They suggested trying to use it again. I will be trying to get a refund for the cost of the calls from them, but don't hold out much hope.
Called Front Desk about being charged twice for internet access and it took ages to answer. They said it would be taken off at check out, but I asked if they could take it off now as I want to do Express Check Out.
Left at 5.30 and we were lucky again that there was a Deuce bus at the stop when we got there. The strip was heaving with traffic and we got to downtown 50 mins later. Picked up our show tickets then went to Binion's Steakhouse to book a table for after the show. Gambled in Binion's and turned $20 into $82 on a Goldfish machine. Cocktail service was excellent and we had 2 huge glasses of wine within ½ an hour.
Crossed the street to the Golden Nugget and picked up our free T-shirts before the show. We had seats in the 3rd row, but any seat would be OK as it's a small theatre. What I saw was funny, but ¾ a bottle of wine on an empty stomach took its toll and I slept through most of it although hubby enjoyed it. The show finished at 9.15.
Went to Binion's Steakhouse and we were seated right away by the window which had a great view. The restaurant was really dark with the only lights being candles on the tables. I had the Petite Filet Mignon, hubby had the 16oz rib eye and we both had baked potato with sour cream and bacon. The steaks were really good, tender and full of flavour. I was too tired to have dessert so with one beer and coffees the bill was $70 which I thought was excellent as I expected it to be more.
The queue for the Deuce was massive with about 100 people waiting, but it moved quickly. The trip back to the MGM took about 40 mins. Up to the room and straight to bed.
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