I particularly like to stay at Bally's in Las Vegas. But, no matter where you stay, you might find you spend a bit more time there--- in that casino. If we are in Bally's, and I think we will stay there for awhile or that day, I like to put my hotel keycard, ID, some spending money, and my lipbalm and cell phone all in one neat place to tote around and hold onto...these little wristlets are great for just that purpose. One piece of advice is to make sure the handle is secure and sturdy, in case you walk to the casino next door, you don't want to make yourself an easy target for purse snatchers or pick-pockets. Always be careful. These usually fit in my hand and the band goes around my wrist. I use them when staying in the hotel and I feel comfortable and safe.
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Monday, January 19, 2015
Christmas Time Done Right In Vegas
The following pictures were taken in Las Vegas during December 2013. I believe most of them were from the Bellagio, however, some of them could have easily been taken in Caesars Palace or other luxury driven casino and resorts.
Friday, October 10, 2014
Taking Suggestions
Okay, its been almost a year since my last trip to Las Vegas. I can't wait to go back, but this darn thing called CANCER has taken a toll on my body and prohibited me from traveling for now.
However, I am already craving the Harrah's Oyster Bar in the worst way! Me and the B.D. haven't even made a reservation or thought about possible dates yet...I'm not yet in the clear with my leukemia to do so.
I am curious if any readers out there have been to Las Vegas recently and can share some stories or updates on what is new. This city that never sleeps is also in constant motion and change. Every trip to Vegas provides something new, exciting, and fun. Every trip also brings some disappointment to trying said new item. That's what is so great about the internet, right?
Please, share!! Let me know what's going on and what I must try on my next trip!!
However, I am already craving the Harrah's Oyster Bar in the worst way! Me and the B.D. haven't even made a reservation or thought about possible dates yet...I'm not yet in the clear with my leukemia to do so.
I am curious if any readers out there have been to Las Vegas recently and can share some stories or updates on what is new. This city that never sleeps is also in constant motion and change. Every trip to Vegas provides something new, exciting, and fun. Every trip also brings some disappointment to trying said new item. That's what is so great about the internet, right?
Please, share!! Let me know what's going on and what I must try on my next trip!!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Save Money: Eat Here: Burger Brasserie - Paris Las Vegas
I highly recommend using Groupon to score an amazing deal at the Burger Brasserie in Paris Las Vegas on your next trip. Its a ridiculously cheap yet amazing meal.
Bally's and Paris are connected by a simple indoor walkway, comprised of a few shops, including the Burger Brasserie. Its a bar/burger restaurant that we would walk past every day during each stay, but I had never had the opportunity to eat there. I usually don't crave burgers when I'm in Vegas (I crave seafood). However, I noticed a Groupon for Burger Brasserie one morning while checking emails, and after a morning of blackjack at a Bally's table, we decided to buy and use the Groupon right then and there.
Bally's and Paris are connected by a simple indoor walkway, comprised of a few shops, including the Burger Brasserie. Its a bar/burger restaurant that we would walk past every day during each stay, but I had never had the opportunity to eat there. I usually don't crave burgers when I'm in Vegas (I crave seafood). However, I noticed a Groupon for Burger Brasserie one morning while checking emails, and after a morning of blackjack at a Bally's table, we decided to buy and use the Groupon right then and there.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
I dare you...no, Triple Dog Dare you to FLY FREE to VEGAS!
Okay, maybe I'm being dramatic here. I have a goal to fly for free to Las Vegas this year. I think everyone can make this their own goal, too. How? Simple...using Southwest's Rapid Rewards system.
Here is my goal: Earn at least one way free this year for my trip in October or November. That gives me 10 months to earn a free one way flight.
How do I plan on doing this?
Here is my goal: Earn at least one way free this year for my trip in October or November. That gives me 10 months to earn a free one way flight.
How do I plan on doing this?
Monday, December 16, 2013
2014 preview--- fall trip completed!
We just came back from our trip to Las Vegas.
I have so much in store for my readers for 2014--- here is a sampling of what I experienced and will be sharing in the next few months:
I have so much in store for my readers for 2014--- here is a sampling of what I experienced and will be sharing in the next few months:
- The Wynn-- players club, Ferrari showroom/museum
- Bellagio- all decked out for Christmas!
- New Slots
- Amenities at Bally's
- The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay revisited
- Groupon in Las Vegas
- On the Cheap - things to do and eats
- Blackjack Craps and Slots
- Shopping at Caesars Forum Shops
- Construction
- Weather issues while on Vacation
- Buffets
- Eiffel Tower Restaurant in Paris
- Mon Ami Gabi in Paris
- Nosh at Bally's
- keno-- its not for old people
- myVegas Rewards Experience
Sunday, November 3, 2013
Resort Fees at Caesar's and Total Rewards Properties #nofair @BallysVegas
Yes, its been a year since our last trip to Las Vegas. I have battled leukemia since February, and now that I'm in remission and undergoing maintenance therapy, we have decided its time for a celebratory trip to Las Vegas. I've mentioned on here before we always stay at Bally's. We ALWAYS stay at Bally's. In the seven (yes, 7) years we have been going to Vegas together, we have never, ever, EVER paid a resort fee. This time, we have been charged one.
It seems the Caesar's properties have started charging resort fees. What's a resort fee? I was curious, too. I called, and the polite customer service representative explained that Bally's resort fee is $18/night (even if you are comp'd or are offered "free" rooms) and includes internet access for one item in your room (I have no idea if this is Wi-Fi), entrance to the fitness center for 2, and local calls. I asked to remove this fee if we knew we didn't want any of those amenities, and she refused. Then, I decided to take this one step further and contact the Caesar's online customer service...and this is the context of the email I received from them:
I might not be Platinum, Diamond, or Seven Stars rated on my total rewards card, but I am a loyal (very loyal) customer. I personally think Bally's and Caesars are making a big mistake nickel and diming their customers in this way...especially when they proudly advertised "NO RESORT FEES" everywhere...online and in their hotels!
I do have lots of myVegas points on that fabulous facebook game that could get me a free night in NYNY, so I am hoping N wants to stay there and try out our other favorite place to gamble!
It seems the Caesar's properties have started charging resort fees. What's a resort fee? I was curious, too. I called, and the polite customer service representative explained that Bally's resort fee is $18/night (even if you are comp'd or are offered "free" rooms) and includes internet access for one item in your room (I have no idea if this is Wi-Fi), entrance to the fitness center for 2, and local calls. I asked to remove this fee if we knew we didn't want any of those amenities, and she refused. Then, I decided to take this one step further and contact the Caesar's online customer service...and this is the context of the email I received from them:
Dear Lisa,
Thank you for writing Bally's Las Vegas.
As of March 1st, 2013, all Caesars Entertainment properties in Las Vegas have implemented a mandatory Resort Fee that ranges from $15-$25 depending on which hotel you will be staying at. As stated, these fees are mandatory for all guests who book with exception of Platinum, Diamond and Seven Star TR members.
If there is anything else we can do to further assist you, please do not hesitate to contact us again.
Thank you,
I might not be Platinum, Diamond, or Seven Stars rated on my total rewards card, but I am a loyal (very loyal) customer. I personally think Bally's and Caesars are making a big mistake nickel and diming their customers in this way...especially when they proudly advertised "NO RESORT FEES" everywhere...online and in their hotels!
I do have lots of myVegas points on that fabulous facebook game that could get me a free night in NYNY, so I am hoping N wants to stay there and try out our other favorite place to gamble!
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
FINALLY ! Next Vacation Booked!
Yes, finally! I have achieved remission of my cancer--- so we can't wait to get to Vegas!
We have booked our trip in December, which means I will be busy posting about places I want to go, and then getting much more info for the blog on places we did go!!
In the meantime, I had to head to my local Total Rewards casino this week, just to make sure my points don't expire. I am happy to report a new version of the Monopoly games. I didn't get a bonus or win, but its called PRIME REAL ESTATE.
We have booked our trip in December, which means I will be busy posting about places I want to go, and then getting much more info for the blog on places we did go!!
In the meantime, I had to head to my local Total Rewards casino this week, just to make sure my points don't expire. I am happy to report a new version of the Monopoly games. I didn't get a bonus or win, but its called PRIME REAL ESTATE.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Top Gun Slot Machine Bonus #newslot #vegas
I saw this on YouTube this morning and can't wait to play it!
Its the Top Gun Slot Machine. The bonus game (as seen in the video below) looks like it could make you dizzy if you are drinking, but nonetheless it is exciting and feels like a video game more than anything else. I got excited just watching this! Has anyone else played this game? How did you do, what did you think of it?
Its the Top Gun Slot Machine. The bonus game (as seen in the video below) looks like it could make you dizzy if you are drinking, but nonetheless it is exciting and feels like a video game more than anything else. I got excited just watching this! Has anyone else played this game? How did you do, what did you think of it?
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Eat Here: Harrah's Oyster Bar #goodeats #lasvegas @HarrahsVegas
I haven't done a restaurant review in awhile. Last night, my boyfriend and I were remembering how great Harrah's Oyster Bar is, and how we can't wait to go back there when my cancer is in remission.
I need to say this now...even if you don't like oysters but love seafood, you MUST MUST MUST go to the Oyster Bar.
This is our first stop in Vegas, no joke. The plane lands, we get in a taxi, go to the hotel, check in, drop off our luggage and head out to Harrah's! We don't wait for a taxi, we walk right out of Bally's and head towards Harrahs, like second nature. Its not a long walk, but its a crowded walkway with lots of people. I don't care. Besides, we get to walk past The Flamingo and now the new Quad and hit those spots on the way back home (yes, in Vegas, Bally's is referred to our home).
The Oyster Bar is an open concept casual restaurant. No walls, just a bar with food and oysters in the center instead of liquor. They do have tables, but why not sit at the bar and watch them prepare your food in front of your eyes? The Oyster Bar is open for lunch, and that's when our plane arrives, at lunchtime. I can't tell you how many times we have ate at the Oyster Bar for lunch, and we always have the same gentleman take care of us. The service is wonderful. If you want something a bit spicier or less spicy, they can adjust your entrée easily, because they make it right there. Your server is also your chef. Sitting at the bar, you get the additional opportunity to talk with other guests and the servers. Servers are locals, so its great to know if anything is going on while you are in Las Vegas. They can also give great advice on places to eat or shows to see.
Now, onto the food. Super Fresh, the oysters always look amazing. Oysters are on display, beautiful shaved ice everywhere, and shucked right in front of you. No matter how you like them, they can accommodate. My boyfriend always gets raw oysters, and they usually have different varieties and sizes to choose from, served properly with all the accoutrements. They also have oysters Rockefeller, shooters, grilled and fried oysters. But, there are plenty of other items available, too.
I always start with a bowl of their New England style clam chowder. Its amazing. Super smooth and creamy, potatoes are the perfect size, and has a good deal of clams in it. If you are not shy about getting messy, I would suggest the Beer Boiled Peel and Eat Shrimp. They are perfectly cooked, and I have had them both plain and blackened. The shrimp are my favorite, they are served in a plastic baggie, steaming and full of juices. You do have to peel each shrimp, and the blackened ones are full of spices and it gets everywhere, but its well worth it. I go through a lot of wet naps when I eat the shrimp. Crab cakes are wonderful. I do like more of a crust on my crab cake personally, but I guess its hard to get a crust when its almost all crab and no filler, as with these crab cakes. They also offer a cold seafood platter appetizer for two. This is a monstrosity of an appetizer and might easily be enough for two people for lunch, honestly. It has lobster, mussels, shrimp, oysters, and crab legs atop of a bed of ice chips served with lemon and sauce. This is an item you see them serve a couple at the bar and say, "We should have ordered that!" I can't wait to try the jambalaya on our next trip.
I think the prices are fair for the quality and taste of the food. The portions are, for me, perfect size. I'm full when we leave, but not tired, and that's key in Vegas. We usually order a few items and share for lunch. If you are a Total Rewards member, you get a discount pricing on your entrees. The Harrah's Oyster Bar does post the menu (with prices) on the Harrah's website (link below). For me, I think its a great start to a vacation. It might be one of the more costly lunches for us, but its now a tradition we hit the Oyster Bar first thing.
This is a place where you can go in jeans, sit with your loved one or friends, order a few different items and have a great time. Good people watching, because you are in the casino. There are tables and slots 15 feet from you. Sitting at the bar you meet and talk to so many people, it just feels like the perfect beginning to a great vacation. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
I need to say this now...even if you don't like oysters but love seafood, you MUST MUST MUST go to the Oyster Bar.
This is our first stop in Vegas, no joke. The plane lands, we get in a taxi, go to the hotel, check in, drop off our luggage and head out to Harrah's! We don't wait for a taxi, we walk right out of Bally's and head towards Harrahs, like second nature. Its not a long walk, but its a crowded walkway with lots of people. I don't care. Besides, we get to walk past The Flamingo and now the new Quad and hit those spots on the way back home (yes, in Vegas, Bally's is referred to our home).
The Oyster Bar is an open concept casual restaurant. No walls, just a bar with food and oysters in the center instead of liquor. They do have tables, but why not sit at the bar and watch them prepare your food in front of your eyes? The Oyster Bar is open for lunch, and that's when our plane arrives, at lunchtime. I can't tell you how many times we have ate at the Oyster Bar for lunch, and we always have the same gentleman take care of us. The service is wonderful. If you want something a bit spicier or less spicy, they can adjust your entrée easily, because they make it right there. Your server is also your chef. Sitting at the bar, you get the additional opportunity to talk with other guests and the servers. Servers are locals, so its great to know if anything is going on while you are in Las Vegas. They can also give great advice on places to eat or shows to see.
Now, onto the food. Super Fresh, the oysters always look amazing. Oysters are on display, beautiful shaved ice everywhere, and shucked right in front of you. No matter how you like them, they can accommodate. My boyfriend always gets raw oysters, and they usually have different varieties and sizes to choose from, served properly with all the accoutrements. They also have oysters Rockefeller, shooters, grilled and fried oysters. But, there are plenty of other items available, too.
I always start with a bowl of their New England style clam chowder. Its amazing. Super smooth and creamy, potatoes are the perfect size, and has a good deal of clams in it. If you are not shy about getting messy, I would suggest the Beer Boiled Peel and Eat Shrimp. They are perfectly cooked, and I have had them both plain and blackened. The shrimp are my favorite, they are served in a plastic baggie, steaming and full of juices. You do have to peel each shrimp, and the blackened ones are full of spices and it gets everywhere, but its well worth it. I go through a lot of wet naps when I eat the shrimp. Crab cakes are wonderful. I do like more of a crust on my crab cake personally, but I guess its hard to get a crust when its almost all crab and no filler, as with these crab cakes. They also offer a cold seafood platter appetizer for two. This is a monstrosity of an appetizer and might easily be enough for two people for lunch, honestly. It has lobster, mussels, shrimp, oysters, and crab legs atop of a bed of ice chips served with lemon and sauce. This is an item you see them serve a couple at the bar and say, "We should have ordered that!" I can't wait to try the jambalaya on our next trip.
I think the prices are fair for the quality and taste of the food. The portions are, for me, perfect size. I'm full when we leave, but not tired, and that's key in Vegas. We usually order a few items and share for lunch. If you are a Total Rewards member, you get a discount pricing on your entrees. The Harrah's Oyster Bar does post the menu (with prices) on the Harrah's website (link below). For me, I think its a great start to a vacation. It might be one of the more costly lunches for us, but its now a tradition we hit the Oyster Bar first thing.
This is a place where you can go in jeans, sit with your loved one or friends, order a few different items and have a great time. Good people watching, because you are in the casino. There are tables and slots 15 feet from you. Sitting at the bar you meet and talk to so many people, it just feels like the perfect beginning to a great vacation. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Girly Must: The Perfect Purse in Vegas #traveling #VegasStyle
Grab n Go Wristlets
are the perfect purse when vacationing in Las Vegas. I prefer a wristlet, mainly because it hangs on your wrist, its always in front of you and within eyesight. It holds just enough of what you need: money, lip balm, phone, hotel keycard, hand sanitizer.
Not forgetting this is the Average Girl's Guide to Vegas, I try to pack a regular sized purse for when I need it, but use the wristlet if I'm staying in our casino/resort. I can easily play slots or blackjack with my wristlet attached, and its easy access to get out tip money for the drink bunnies.
When picking a wristlet out, make sure the handle is secure and sturdy. As with any tourist locale, there is an opportunity for bag grabbers and cons. You want to make sure someone can't just grab your purse and break the handle off. Also, a zipper is a must. Some wristlets have a flap and just a button. One single button won't cut it. Make sure its zippered under the flap, if you like the look. This way, you don't have to worry about anything falling out as you are walking from machine to machine or table to table. I also never, EVER put all my spending cash in my wristlet when I use it. I don't do this with any purse I use. My sister went to Las Vegas and used her fanny pack. It was zippered, but she still had her ID and wallet stolen. Someone just sat next to her at a machine and started playing. She didn't even realize they unzipped her fanny and took her wallet! It was a bear trying to get her back home, going through security with no ID.
are the perfect purse when vacationing in Las Vegas. I prefer a wristlet, mainly because it hangs on your wrist, its always in front of you and within eyesight. It holds just enough of what you need: money, lip balm, phone, hotel keycard, hand sanitizer. Not forgetting this is the Average Girl's Guide to Vegas, I try to pack a regular sized purse for when I need it, but use the wristlet if I'm staying in our casino/resort. I can easily play slots or blackjack with my wristlet attached, and its easy access to get out tip money for the drink bunnies.
When picking a wristlet out, make sure the handle is secure and sturdy. As with any tourist locale, there is an opportunity for bag grabbers and cons. You want to make sure someone can't just grab your purse and break the handle off. Also, a zipper is a must. Some wristlets have a flap and just a button. One single button won't cut it. Make sure its zippered under the flap, if you like the look. This way, you don't have to worry about anything falling out as you are walking from machine to machine or table to table. I also never, EVER put all my spending cash in my wristlet when I use it. I don't do this with any purse I use. My sister went to Las Vegas and used her fanny pack. It was zippered, but she still had her ID and wallet stolen. Someone just sat next to her at a machine and started playing. She didn't even realize they unzipped her fanny and took her wallet! It was a bear trying to get her back home, going through security with no ID.
Whatever you decide to use, just try to make sure it's hard for someone to take from you, open when your not looking, and hard to forget. With all the walking and cabbing from place to place, if you lose your bag, it's hard to backtrack to find it. It will be gone.
I love love LOVE my wristlets! I hope you find them cute and utilitarian too!
Flamingos at the Flamingo!
My brother is staying at the Flamingo with his next trip to Vegas, I can't wait to hear how he likes the rooms. The location is amazing...its in the center of the strip, close to everything!
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Go Behind The Rhinestones - Jubilee 30th Anniversary Dancer Interview wi...
This is a show in Vegas at Bally's that I can't wait to see on our next trip to Vegas. We always see the showgirls after the show, taking pictures with guests. If you stay at Ballys Las Vegas, you will notice the posters for Jubilee! everywhere.
This is classic Vegas-- don't miss it.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
myVegas Rewards, an alternative to the Candy Crush Saga!
I am a fan of any rewards system in Las Vegas. If you are planning a trip and want to stay at Aria, NYNY, or Bellagio (or any of their sister properties), I would suggest you start playing myVegas on Facebook. This game is reward based in real life! As you accrue points in the game (slots or blackjack), you can redeem those points for real life rewards from these properties! Some of the rewards include buffets, show tickets or 2for1 tickets, and free rooms.
I am saving for either tickets to LOVE (it was amazing the first time I saw it!), a free room at NYNY, or the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (again, already did it, would love to walk it again).
I am saving for either tickets to LOVE (it was amazing the first time I saw it!), a free room at NYNY, or the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (again, already did it, would love to walk it again).
Friday, August 2, 2013
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas- never experienced by me!
I have never read it, but when I saw this book on a recent episode of Pawn Stars, my interest was peaked!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Frommer's Las Vegas 2013-- Get this Guide!
Available on Amazon.com, Frommer's guide books have been a staple for years and years. Yes, I know we are in the digital age, but this is one to get and look at before you go...don't be reading from your ipad or android phone while walking the strip...you will miss the sights, people watching, and may even then become a victim of a pick-pocket if you aren't paying attention. This guide has information on tons of free attractions, the best places to eat, and things to do outside of the strip and Old Downtown Vegas (if you feel adventurous!).
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