I couldn't concur with you more. I'm from San Diego and have enjoyed easy access to Vegas. To be fair, I really truly enjoyed Vegas when I was single and without kids. It was really fun to be comped after playing BJ for several hours. But Vegas has lost its charm and its focus of treating each player, regardless of status, like a PLAYER. Nowadays, one has to play $25 BJ hands for 10 hours straight before they'll comp you a breakfast. I once enjoyed Vegas but that was many years ago. I'll never go back. Everything is too damn expensive (yes, I know there are deals and Anthony Curtis does a great job getting that info out to people. I actually quoted himi in an article I had published about Vegas after 9/11) and your money isn't respected unless you have heaps of the green stuff. If i want to play, I just head to one of the local Indian establishments. I'm cared for better and the drive is not as long. My mother-in-law loves Vegas and I, for the life of me, cannot figure out why. She comlains that the Indian casinos don't throw dice but the most she's ever put down on a throw is a $5 cum...and that's for the entire three days she's there!

Posted By Todd on April 3, 2008, 3:18 AM

The "Old" Vegas had so much more appeal. Since they decided to turn it into "kiddie land" it has lost the "Vegas" appeal. "Sin and kids" . . . just don't sound right! The two do not and should not go hand-n-hand. With the slogan "what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas" should tell you something! I have never known a kid that did not blurt out those "secrets" in public, I mean they made Art Linkletter rich.

If they would make it a grown up play ground ONLY again I would return. Vegas was not designed to be seen by the light of day! Why else would they have all of the bright lights! How do they pay for all of the "glamor"? They TAKE your money.

Vegas is nothing but a "faux" city not to be seen by the light of day.

The "Good Days" are long gone!

Posted By Kele on April 3, 2008, 9:50 AM

I just had to smile when I saw you mention the Wynn. My brother just passed through Vegas last week and since it was spur of the moment and he was on his cycle, he called me at 9:00 pm (in the Midwest) to hop online and see if I could find him a decent hotel room on the strip for a good price as he really just wanted to sleep and leave in the morning.

I haven't been to Vegas in YEARS... but I knew from my best friend who used to drive there for a quick weekend trip (cheap) from Los Angeles, she would get a room for about $75, breakfasts were usually comped and it was a terrific quick getaway.

Uh... not anymore.

When I checked the Wynn the rooms were $600 to start. I just laughed.

I didn't book him there. But I had to smile when you mentioned the Wynn as well.

I caused a family ruckus a couple years ago by not wanting to bring my three children to Vegas for an impromptu wedding of a relative. Bringing my kids to an expensive "Sin City" was not on my list of priorities at the time. As far as I'm concerned I never need to step foot there... ever.

Posted By Meritt on April 3, 2008, 10:56 AM

I too went to Vegas and left underwhelmed. To be sure, there were some fun things—the faux Venice and Eiffel Tower. But overall, it seemed like a bad come-on in fancy dress.

Posted By Pete on April 3, 2008, 1:25 PM

Although my favorite vacations are the less-travelled, remote places like Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island, Bahamas, When I go to Vegas, I really enjoy it. I know its much more expensive than it used to be. But, I can still find a bargain if I'm willing to stay at the older or smaller hotels. Actually, Stratosphere sends us free room vouchers a couple times a year and we've only stayed there twice (and we are not mega-gamblers).

For me Vegas is a complete escape. I currently live in the midwest. And even though we have the Caesar's Indiana Casino eight miles down the Ohio River from our house, it doesn't have the same total emersion-type escape that Vegas offers. And where else can you get the variety and quality of shows that are available in Vegas (not only in the theaters, but on the streets--at any hour). We are going to Vegas in June and I can't wait!!!

Posted By Lynette Roth on April 3, 2008, 3:55 PM

i,too,used to come to vegas from l.a.we moved ,here to henderson,13 miles from the strip.we have local big casinos who cater to us,because they depend on our business.we sign up for award cards ,which ,build up quickly.i have won more money in our casinos,here,than when i came up on weekends.we like to gamble on saturdays,as.we work all week.we would never go to the strip.machines are ,too,tight.fiesta,sam,s town,treat us very well.the strip sucks

Posted By janet lowrie on April 3, 2008, 6:09 PM

Erik, I can definitely understand your sentiment about the place. I'm not a gambler nor do I condone the wastefulness of gambling. Plus every time I go there I have to mentally take a moment and decide not to be freaked by all the sin around me. And buffets? Well, I'm not a fan of those either.

With all that said, I do enjoy Vegas. Why? Because every time I go there, it's for something special. Last time, I went for a girlfriend's bachelorette party. I spent quality time with her and bonded with her friends that became my new friends. We soaked up the sun, told fun stories and made great memories of dancing and being "bachelorette-party silly."

So Vegas for me is more about the occasions in life (that call for a place where anything goes). As a solo traveler however, it's certainly not on my list of next stops.

Posted By Kimberly on April 4, 2008, 11:57 AM

Just back from my very first visit to Vegas, and at the Wynn to boot.

I was all ready to report on the things I liked about the place, but unfortunately, the real news is everything that's wrong. I guess you can't spend that much money without getting *some* things right, but so many of the simple, commonsense, think-about-your-guest touches are lacking.

I've already commented on my blog, WritingTravel.com, about my daughter's experience with foodborne illness there last weekend. Now it's time to get down to the nitty gritty about the rest of the annoyances.

One quick example: the much lauded flat-panel televisions are wall mounted. That's not surprising. What did surprise me is the lack of sound proofing between the television in the next room and the head of my bed. I was awakened to a loud Bollywood musical at 3am.

Such oversights might be part of the charming ambience of hotels in other realms, but I find them inexcusable at the rates we were paying.

Posted By Lanora Mueller on April 4, 2008, 8:33 PM

I just got back from staying at the Wynn last week and while I have no need to visit Vegas anytime soon, the Wynn is lovely, food is outstanding - unbelieveably frsh ingredients in everything and the flowers - incredible! Red Rocks Park is worth a trip if you need a break from the strip.

Posted By elizabeth on April 7, 2008, 12:14 PM

Ok, yes, I have to admit that Las Vegas is a tad bit expensive. I had the pleasure of going for the first time, with my mother, in March 2007 for a wedding @ the Mandalay Bay. My mother, who makes very good money, had to stop and ask for her total again when they said $11 for a caesar salad. Later she jokingly said to me,"can I have some of your $5 chips?" Our sit down dinner (which consisted of salads and seafood) came to $110. It would not have cost that much on Fisherman's Wharf and we are both Bay Area girls, born and raised. I just made my own fun, drank very little, and made my way to McDonald's a few times. So far as the excitement, I expected more, but yes would go back for my own agenda.

Posted By Sonja Lemons on April 7, 2008, 12:20 PM

I used to go to Vegas twice a year and get treated well and RFB comped as a $25-50 BJ player. They are no longer interested in the moderate action player as they only treat the "whales" well nowadays. Gone are the moderate priced rooms and bargain meals. In are ultra high priced rooms, expensive food and shows. The place has been taken over by the corporate "bean counters" and gone are the warm and caring casino hosts that used to take good care of their customers. I stayed at the Wynn 2 years ago, hated it as wells as today's Vegas and will NEVER go back!!

Posted By Fred on April 7, 2008, 12:25 PM

I attended a conference in Vegas last fall and was dreading the trip, because I didn't want to be part of what Vegas portrays. I ended up having a great time with some former collegues of mine [check out the Hofbrauhaus - very fun] and came to realize that the company you are in truely makes a difference. We had more fun laughing at the idiotic behavior from the sidelines.

I think Vegas is great to experience if you have the right perspective; it truely is a locale of gluttony at all levels, and it makes me appreciate who I am and what I value most...Think of it as a quick class in cultural anthropology, without the nose rings and odd traditions....oh wait, they have those!

Posted By Jennifer E on April 7, 2008, 12:27 PM

It isn't Las Vegas you dislike guys...it's the STRIP!
Get out of there and go to the local places like Sam's Town and Fiesta, you will enjoy yourself with the much friendlier atmosphere and less expensive meals.

Posted By ljohaines on April 7, 2008, 12:27 PM

Vegas has gone on to become a town that has no place for family. This is sad because the location and entertainment it could offer would be just fantastic for repeat family vacations.

How sad!

Posted By aaa on April 7, 2008, 12:28 PM

I couldn't agree with you more. I used to go to Vegas several times a year and actually enjoyed the fact that although the strip was an important part of the city, las vegas still had a small town feel to it. The people were friendly and engaging, the life off the strip was slow and gentile, and the food was actually good food served at reasonable prices. Since then, the corporate mongers have taken over and Vegas sold its soul to the highest bidder. It's now loud, fake, overdone, overblown, and the food is expensive and mediocre. I hate it, too.

Posted By Melanie Blagburn on April 7, 2008, 12:31 PM

I LOVE Las Vegas. Just got back a couple of weeks ago from a weekend with friends. We're all young professionals and work very hard. And we were all in desperate need of a fun vacation. Vegas is perfect for that. We stayed at Mandalay Bay, which is a beautiful hotel, has great rooms, and a fantastic pool. We went out to Pure, LAX, and Rain. I absolutely love Pure, it's a great nightclub. LAX was a little too big and crowded for me, but also a great time. Overall I spent the whole weekend lounging at the pool and partying with my best friends at some of the best nightclubs in the country. What else could I ask for?

Vegas will definitely be a yearly reunion for my friends and I.

Posted By Love Las Vegas on April 7, 2008, 12:36 PM

There is a lot to love, as well as a lot to dislike about Vegas. There is something for everyone. I live in Vegas, and have never been inside the Wynn. There are many great restaurants inside Caesars, MGM Grand, Belagio, etc. Entertainment is like nowhere else (but expensive). The suburbs are like suburbs everywhere, but we have nicer golf course developments than most places. I live there (actually in Henderson), and I love it.
As for the poster who referred to the kiddyland trend, that trend was reversed several years ago. (The Chippendales are on stage at the Excaliber, for example)

Posted By Don on April 7, 2008, 12:39 PM

I agree, but the trick is not to go the strip. We rent a condo for three months
early in the winter. About 4 years ago we got NV ID"S and signed up for the
paper. We literally get almost all meals free or at least 1 per dinner. Do get these great deals you need to go to local casinos. They are just as beautiful as
the strip and cater to people that live there. We get 1/2 for show tickets and
by getting the paper we can take advantage of all deals including downtown,
strip and etc. So my advice if just going for the weekend is to pick a Review Journal. A section called the Neon has everything you need to know plus throughout the paper where to go on the strip if that is where you are stuck!!!

Consider staying at a local casino next visit. They offer bus free service to
many other great casinos. Here are a few that I will mention.
Red Rock, Suncoast, South Pointe, Sam's Town Silverado.
Check it out!!!!

Posted By Peggy on April 7, 2008, 12:40 PM

I moved to Las Vegas 2 years ago for my husbands new job. I had never even wanted to visit here. So now we are here and I would say the big saving grace is the music scene. There are a lot of great local bands still undiscovered here. The national acts that tour here are also in abundance. I have has the chance to go to the MTV VMA's which was a lifelong dream. I also attended th Billboard Music Awards and always go to see my favorite local bands. That is the only thing I see that is good about Vegas. There may be some really awesome food, but the gambling, gluttiny and demoralized people that come here and live here make it a not so great place to live.

Posted By DESTINY on April 7, 2008, 12:42 PM

Just returned yesterday, 4/6/08 after spending my 55th birthday in Vegas. I've been going there for over 20 years and still love it! It's the excitement and friendliness of the visitors that keep bringing me back. Yes, cost has increased, but where hasn't it? Sign up for Player's Cards! We had 2 free nights at Riviera and only paid a total $75 for the other 2. We had 4 free dinners and got cash back! I love Vegas and can't wait to return. We even went on a free tour of Sheri's Brothel in Pahrump!! My husband had never been to Vegas until 2006. I took a Vegas Virgin and turned him into a Vegas ho! He loves it too.

Posted By Darla C. on April 7, 2008, 12:42 PM

Our family just returned from a 4 day, spring break trip to Vegas with another family. We stayed at the Bellagio and took in Cirque du Soleil. Sounds great, right? Overall impression; it's overcrowded, overpriced, and overhyped. Vegas, like many other places now, is a big shopping mall that's designed exclusively to generate a sale at every opportunity. Disney would be proud. Our favorite moments were going to Red Rock to hike (hint: the casino resort there was actually beautiful, much less expensive, and a cab ride to the strip), buying a much needed bottle of cold water from a street vendor for a buck (the best deal of the entire trip), and the excellent Bellagio buffet (other restaurants were generally very expensive and not very good). I hope Vegas feels the recession and adjusts their pricing to keep visitors coming.

Posted By Lisa on April 7, 2008, 12:44 PM

My brother was married in Vegas a few years ago. We packed up the kids and drove 9 hours to this event. I will never go back again. It's definetly not a place for kids. I was sickened by all the porn papers scattered all over the sidewalks. The cost of everything was outrageous. To many people and to noisy for me!

Posted By michelle muse on April 7, 2008, 12:44 PM

Hi Erik! Long time, no see (although my dad still tells me every time you appear on "his morning show").

I think the appeal of Vegas these days is similar to the appeal of Epcot: the veneer of exotic lands without the effort or risk of travel. While the croissants at Paris are excellent, and the 1/2 scale Eiffel Tower is quite a feat, you're not getting anywhere close to the experience of travelling to Paris, France. But if you get tired of faux Paris, you can wander a few doors down to faux New York, faux Egypt, faux Venice, etc.

So it makes perfect sense to me that you, and most of your readership, wouldn't really enjoy Vegas. What's the appeal of fake travel when you can have the real thing?

Me, I still like to go to Vegas for a couple of days once a year with my girlfriends. We drink, act silly, play penny slots, and take in a show (I'm currently enamored with Cirque du Soleil's "Love"). We pay too much for buffets, recover from too much fun and too little sleep with coffee and a croissant the size of your head, and leave on Sunday with the thought that we are done with Vegas... until next year.

Posted By Michelle Brown on April 7, 2008, 12:45 PM

I do not gamble or party or go to concerts and yet I love Vegas. I go for the spa's. A 60 minute trip on Southwest airlines, a couple of nights in Mandalay Bay and two entire days spent in the best spa around all for an extremely reasonable amount of money. My friend and I catch a cab at the airport and we exit the cab and go straight to the spa. We stow our suitcases in a locker, slip on bathing suits and robes and rest hard. The spa has lounge chairs around 4 large jacuzzi's and offers many treatments at competitive prices. There is complementary fruit, muffins, coffee, tea, water and mixed nuts. We usually have a treatment, and order lunch from room service. Around 7pm, we check into our room, large, two closets, with an amazing bathroom - double sinks and separate tub and shower- for only $109 - $149 on special, and then eat dinner in one of the many restaurants (our favorite is Border Grill) in the hotel. We finish the evening by visiting the Reading Room, a truly marvelous bookstore and then an hour or so of people watching at Starbucks. The next day we do the exact same thing. The following morning we head for home, relaxed and refreshed.

Posted By Robin on April 7, 2008, 12:46 PM

I always think of Vegas as Disneyland on acid. Which, if you are only there for two or three days, can be entertaining. It's so artificial - the Venetian with its fake sky and outdoor plaza, Paris, New York. I stay away from the gambling, but there are some shows that are nice, like the various Cirque du Soleil shows and the art galleries in the Venetian and the Bellagio. The architecture is fascinating - like the world's largest chocolate fountain in the Bellagio - quite beautiful. I'm always a bit horror-struck when I'm there, especially by the prevalence of moving sidewalks and smokers, but it's very different than anywhere else you can go. Of course, I love horror movies, so that might explain a lot.

Posted By Kim on April 7, 2008, 12:48 PM

This article was too much. I felt like an alien when in my recent trip to Vegas all I wanted to do is get on a plane and go back home. Vegas is definitely over rated!

Posted By ayleen on April 7, 2008, 12:58 PM

I too grew up on Vegas-I am from So Cal. Im probably getting old but I now find Vegas boring- yes I said boring, too expensive, and dirty. I have plenty of Indian gaming casinos closer to home now whenever I feel the need to lose some cash.

Posted By carlos on April 7, 2008, 12:59 PM

Well, I've been to Vegas twice, July 07 and Dec 07. Decided to go back there because it's a good place for a few days' getaway. Taking a break from the books and workloads of your jobs. Admit it, everyone knows it's overpriced. You must have realised it the moment you think about the casinos there. And it's best if you've got money to spend in casinos, admission fees and dining. I remember a $4 bottle of Ethos water. I'd never pay that kinda money for a bottle of water. But then I had the voucher from the video survey I did in one of the hotel. Wynn was elegant from outside, and rather good on the inside as well. Spamalot was fun and memorable. Wynn's room rates are too high to my liking. But their player's club is great as I redeemed a free buffet in a few hours of digital roulette betting with $1's. So we did some casino, hotel and buffet hopping. Just having a little bit of everything and a little getaway. As I said, it's the place for people to spend their money. If you're willing, you can have fun, fun and fun and fun . . . If you're on a budget for a college student like me, fun is still possible.

Posted By pujutengineered on April 7, 2008, 12:59 PM

We love Las Vegas! We don't gamble other than a $40 - $50 a the slots.

We do the shows, people watch and visit the better restaurants.

We've stayed at all the top hotels and find the Signature at MGM to be a real price performer with excellent service.

LV is what you make it.

Posted By Ed T. on April 7, 2008, 1:02 PM

I too, use to love Vegas! I could feel rich without being rich, the slots were loose enough to make my $20.00 go more than 3 minutes, the room rates were affordable, the hotels were well kept, (no dust bunnies under the slots, in the hallways, elevators, or atriums, etc...) rooms felt luxurious at budget prices, and the buffets were a bargain. Not so any longer, and for the price, and the losses at the machines, I can take my family somewhere on the beach and all of us can have fun. In fact, for the prices any more, Vegas is Not the Deal it was, nor is it conscious of our needs as it use to be. No more "Vegas treatment" as if you were valued guests, instead, you are an irritation, and Vegas has become an aberration.

Posted By Katy C on April 7, 2008, 1:02 PM

I too, use to love Vegas! I could feel rich without being rich, the slots were loose enough to make my $20.00 go more than 3 minutes, the room rates were affordable, the hotels were well kept, (no dust bunnies under the slots, in the hallways, elevators, or atriums, etc...) rooms felt luxurious at budget prices, and the buffets were a bargain. Not so any longer, and for the price, and the losses at the machines, I can take my family somewhere on the beach and all of us can have fun. In fact, for the prices any more, Vegas is Not the Deal it was, nor is it conscious of our needs as it use to be. No more "Vegas treatment" as if you were valued guests, instead, you are an irritation, and Vegas has become an aberration.

Posted By Katy C on April 7, 2008, 1:02 PM

I LOVE Vegas, and go 1-2x a year all the way from the east coast, where it is not a short flight, nor is it cheap to do. Yes, I am a gambler, but I've dragged many a non-gambler along over the years, and they're all fans now, too. There's something for everyone--scenery, nightlife, shopping, spas, shows, food and more food, people-watching, lounging by the pool, upscale pampering, mingling with dregs, if that's your thing, and everything in between. There's the Golden Nugget for the old school Vegas feel, Red Rocks for off-strip fun and the strip is akin to Disneyland for adults. Some hotels are a bit overpriced, but if you don't like the prices, nobody's forcing you to buy! You could walk around the strip all day for free, window shop, sample makeup/perfume in the shops, and buy nothing but a cup of coffee and McDonald's for lunch, as cheap as if you were home, but with much more to do and see, and more options than any home town, even LA or NY. Choose what suits your wallet and you get what you pay for. I've even been there in 125 degree record heat and STILL loved it. The only complaint I have is the offensive porn flyers being distributed by the (legal?) spanish-speaking hustlers on every street corner, and the pornographic litter they create all over the streets for those who do not wish to see it. I don't bring my kids with me to Vegas, but the streets are public and there are kid walking around; the city shouldn't be littered with that crap. I wish some city official would ban the hustlers/flyers and crack down on those suckers. Other than that, I'm sold, and all you nay-sayers? Stay home! More room for me! : )

Posted By Jessica on April 7, 2008, 1:03 PM

I'm not a person who has to search for the most budget vacation, I can afford to pay for a strip hotel and eat in some of the not-too-ridiculously expensive restaurants. I go there for the shows and wander around in the hotels during the day to observe the architectural details.

What fries me is having to pay in advance for part of the hotel stay. This is a dangerous precedent being set.

My husband and I talk about the word we have made up - "excludive" - a take on exclusive. We are talking about things being so expensive that many are excluded from being able to pay. This is the case of Vegas. Many are excluded from the ability to pay for the product. Yet, enough people are using the product to keep the high prices. Those are the laws of economics, supply and demand. We are living in a world where there are enough people willing and able to pay those excludive prices. Can't be helped.

Posted By Maria Tambon on April 7, 2008, 1:06 PM

My spouse hates it and I enjoy it. Do not get me wrong the megaresorts are not any fun. The rooms are so expensive there is nothing left to spend on FUN.
We still go, stay at the Flamingo or away from the strip and we no only go with a group. This way we can invent some of our own fun.

Posted By steve on April 7, 2008, 1:08 PM

Like most of you, I've been to Vegas a few times and think it gets more and more absurd each year. It's conspicuous consumption at its best, but still ... it's an amazing place to people watch and to "people laugh" (usually hysterically). There are plenty of deals, even in the high end hotels, and there are still a few nice places to eat without backrupting yourself for a mediocre burger. And as "Robin" mentioned, the spas are wonderful -- but high end in terms of pricing. I'll go back, I'm sure, and be astounded at the divine decadence once again!

Posted By Penny on April 7, 2008, 1:09 PM

If a place has taste...good or bad...I loveit. Las Vegas is a temple of the ultimate bad taste tacky. Who could not love it when compared with with the bland NO taste of most of the USA? I don't gamble at all, but still like to visit the hotels on the strip. Las Vegas is not expensive, unless compared to 50 years ago when a non-comped room at the Last Frontier was $5 and a buffet dinner at the Silver Slipper was 75 cents, with Sally Rand (way over the hill) with her fans as the entertainment. Bar Show beer was 75 cents. Main Room shows were a 2 drink minimum of $10. It was relaxing and fun when the gangsters ran the place.

Posted By Lawthomas on April 7, 2008, 1:09 PM

I enjoy Las Vegas and I am not a big spender. My major passion is being in a place where time does not matter and your only job is enjoying yourself. I enjoy the art galleries,wax museum, shows, the lounge acts, the shopping, the restaurants (both downtown, on the strip and where the real people live)and slot machines. When I gamble it is with the quarters I have saved up in anticipation of my trip. I avoid gambling with money I cannot afford to lose. Las Vegas is not a place for children and no adult should leave children to their own devices to gamble. I have no interest in nude shows, illicit sex, drinking to excess, or doing things that would bring shame if known. Yet, I thoroughly enjoy Las Vegas. Do you know that Las Vegas has architectural marvels, libraries with art exhibits, museums, churches, used book stores, and a mystery dinner theatre? We even had fun standing outside the chapels giving our best wishes and encouragement to couples going into be married. Fun is where you look for it.

Posted By Anne E. Anderson on April 7, 2008, 1:12 PM

Had the most FUN at the WYNN It has beautiful accomodations/service/restaurant/gambling. I could live there easily. LV is for FUN not analysis.

Posted By dee on April 7, 2008, 1:13 PM

I went in September with Mom, Aunt and Cousin. Four women, we stayed at the Wynn, and loved the rooms, the views, the pool area, the shopping area, and various restaurants. The high end restaurants were good, BUT NOT fabulous, for what they charge! The Cirque de Soliel style show, was predictable and certainly not worth the $200 a ticket charged for 2 strawberries and champagne!!! The ice cream restaurant was delicious, and the poolside restaurant was very nice. But Las Vegas will not see me agin, way too much cigarette smoke, and extremely overrated, even the shopping malls are a huge let down, and don't forget the mediocre service in the USA today!!!

Posted By Sharon Viggiano on April 7, 2008, 1:25 PM

Vegas is a great place if you stay away from the strip. Visit good "locals" casinos, like Suncoast, Orleans and Gold Coast. Look for "locals" places to eat. For Italian, "Nora's", for pizza, "Mark Rich's New York Pizza", for Bar B Q, "T C's Rib Crib".
Hike in Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire St. Park. Play golf at Angel Park.

Posted By William Wagner on April 7, 2008, 1:27 PM

My niece and her fiance live in Henderson. My husband and I are planning to visit them next fall (2009), and were planning to stay in Henderson. We're not gamblers, but I'd like to *see* the Strip at least once before I shuffle off this mortal coil, y'know? :) It sounds as though I'd better start saving up now, if everything's as expensive as you folks have said.

Posted By Debbie on April 7, 2008, 1:33 PM

stay off the strip, go downtown and to boulder strip. the casinos there treat you alot BETTER

Posted By Dick Goodman on April 7, 2008, 1:34 PM

I always thought of Vegas as the only place you could go to see "Ugly American Tourists" without actually leaving America. I used to go to Vegas every year for an industry trade show. After the show was over every night I'd find the cheapest restaurant I could for dinner, then go back to my room and shut the door until the next morning. I'd rather go to Tijuana.

Posted By Evan on April 7, 2008, 1:40 PM

Vegas is okay if you can control your gambling (I consider the money I loose as a donation to the city of "Lost Wages"). There really is a good mix of shopping and sightseeing in "sin city". Coupons, cheap buffets, and other "come ons" can really stretch the dollar. It really has more things to do than any similar sized American city.

Posted By Leroy on April 7, 2008, 1:42 PM

My husband & I are leaving this Wednesday & love Vegas. My husbands family retired military there from Cal. and I have been lucky to go since 1999. We got married at the "Little White Chapel" in '03 (great price too) including limo. We live in Fla, so every time I find cheap airline tickets...we are there. It's great since we have his parents, brothers, nephews & niece there so we go hang at their homes while their also. We love to gamble too! But staying at Sam's for the last several years we stay for free and away from the rat race of the strip. But always visit Freemont St. with the light show. I just can't see paying the high priced strip hotels at all. The hotels off the strip have great people working there and treat us great! Can't wait to leave this week.

Posted By Diane on April 7, 2008, 1:47 PM

First trip to Vegas, right after New Years. The smog was horrible. Were ever I travel ,I love taking pictures of doors. Egypt, Morocco, Scotland. Getting quite the collection. Walking down the strip, getting accosted by sex venders, giving out business card with pics of the girls, who for only $39.00, will come up to your room. Now do you think it will be the beautiful girl, or two large male workers, with billy clubs, lookiung for a little more than $39.00.
I did take a good handful of cards though...Doors of Cairo, Doors of Casablanca, Whores of Vegas.......well it sort of rhymes.
PS, Stayed at Luxor, for $69.00 a night, not too bad.

Posted By Kevin Morrell on April 7, 2008, 1:48 PM

I still go to Vegas every year and very much enjoy it. There's no need to stay on the Strip even though there are great places there like the gardens and pools in back of the Flamingo. And there are plenty of midweek deals to be had. Downtown has been completely rejuvenated and there's a much shorter walk between casinos. Viva Las Vegas!

Posted By Roy on April 7, 2008, 1:58 PM

LV- too noisy, too many people, too overpriced, BUT , the restaurant food is usually very good!.

Posted By Phil Mattison on April 7, 2008, 2:02 PM

I have to go to Vegas occasionally...I have family there. But my list of things I like to do is very small: Lunch on the terrace at Mon Ami Gabi @ Paris (they make great onion soup, don't care for their french fries), Watching the fountains @ Bellagio and taking in the Conservatory show of flowers, I also make a stop at the Gelateria in the Bellagio for a fix of gelato. We try to take in any of the Cirque du Soleil shows, "O" and "Ka" are the best. This past time we saw "ICE" the Moscow Ice Circus (a lesser show [at a lesser price]) but very entertaining.
The rest of Vegas is hype and plastic, not worth the time or money. If you don't mind shelling out some NYC type money on food, there are some great restaurants, but I'm visiting family.

Posted By Linda on April 7, 2008, 2:04 PM

You're right on about the Wynn being tacky. It's a matter of taste - Steve Wynn's taste. He's tacky. Check out the Bellagio which he also built - it's tacky too.

Vegas is terribly expensive nowadays, but we go once a year for two nights. Splurge a little - we're staying at the Venetian for $225/night, going to the Cirque de Soliel show "Love" for $135/person and having dinner at the Eiffel Tower restaurant which will set us back $200 with wine & tip.

The trip will cost us about $1000 for 3 days/2 nights. $500 per day may seem like a lot, but our last Caribbean cruise on the WindStar ran over $600 per day - and that was for 8 days.

Posted By Ray on April 7, 2008, 2:05 PM

I was just in Vegas 4 weeks ago with a few friends and we had the time of our lives. We are from the East coast and the flight can be a long and exhausting one, but when we touch down in Vegas, all that seems to go away and we are now in the FUN mode!! We go at least twice a year and enjoy our time there. Grant it, things have changed over the last 15 years that we have been going there...nothing stays the same forever! But I do wish for the old days sometimes, where you were treated like real customers, even if you did not have a pocket full of money and comps were plentiful. All in all, Vegas is what it is, but it sure keeps me coming back.

Posted By D.R. Sipe on April 7, 2008, 2:05 PM

I totally agree with your negative assessment of Vegas. I went there in the 1960s and loved the glamour and excitement of the place. Not any more. I went there last year and just hated it. Crowded, very expensine, and sleazy. I will not return.

Posted By David Lasky on April 7, 2008, 2:10 PM

i used to live in vegas, old vegas, with one acre properties and no condos in sight and i really enjoyed it.lovely parks.quiet. sunrise mountain in the distance. it is,however,not the place for any soul-enriching experiences.i don't gamble and i loved the availability of anything and everything 24/7.this truly is the city that never sleeps. i don't not miss it at all.all that desert landscaping and beige beige beige!!!! it's enough to drive a girl crazy!!!

Posted By deby holmes-tillman on April 7, 2008, 2:11 PM

I took my new wife to LV in 1996. It was her first
visit. It was probably my 100th. She fell in love
with the place, the same as I had, the glittering lights, the feeling of excitement that maybe, just maybe you might get lucky. The excellent meals, some of them at very good prices and the faux architecture which we still enjoyed even though we
have seen the real Venice, Paris, etc. We live in
the Southeast and went about twice a year for 5 or
6 years. She enjoyed the slot tournaments The
Flamingo used to put on. I enjoyed playing BJ at the $5 and $10 dollar tables. Since Harrah's and the other bean counters arrived, its not fun anymore,the "just maybe" feeling is gone. Where once we left saying we had a great time, we leave feeling we've been ripped off. They can take their players cards and "shove them".

Posted By gary clayton on April 7, 2008, 2:12 PM

Well, both Vegas and Reno stink. If you've heard the expression, having a no-peeing section to your swimming pool is like having a no-smoking section to your restaurant, casino, etc. that's it. I was unable to access my hotel room without passing through a smog-filled casino. I went to Vegtas twice in 1992 for business, saw a very mediocre show at the Excalibre (the not-so-royal Lippizaners), and found an Italian restaurant on Convention Center drive that looked like it was the haunt of the you-know-who. Good food, good service and fair prices.

I hate the fluorescent lights, smoke and lack of windows. I might be able to enjoy something in that town, but it is impossible for me to get beyond those negatives.

I suspect that those of you who are disillusioned by the Las Vegas of today are merely growing up.

Posted By N Fisher on April 7, 2008, 2:13 PM

understanding that every one is intitled to their own taste, i feel sorry for those who think todays vegas is fun.it is as artifical , over priced and classless as you can make a place.they should give you a sign saying sucker to wear as you check in. not defending their morality but the mob ran it much,much better

Posted By j scherer on April 7, 2008, 2:30 PM

First, I'd like to admit something. I never, ever wanted to go to Las Vegas before, because I thought there was nothing but gambling and girlie shows available. So when I did go, it was at my sister's insistance that we do something together. My sister was 8 months pregnant at time, and thought it would be her last time travelling with us like single gals. We stayed at the Stratosphere which was very inexpensive for the three of us. We did rent a hot red, air-conditioned car with sunroof so we could make it around without my sister having to walk in the 100 degree weather outside in October.

Well, I love LV now. I love the shows we went to see (by the way, we saw Siegfried & Roy exactly 2 weeks before the tiger incident). I now have a beautiful photo of my 2 sisters and I sitting in a gondola right in front of the Venetian. The gentleman gondolalier thought my sister would like to hear a little Italian song about "mamas" for her ride. It was so beautifully sung, we almost cried. We treated ourselves to a wonderful 5-star dinner after one of the shows. We had a great time together, and definitely will go again together. Maybe this time, my beautiful, little niece will be with us to show her the sharks, white lions, etc.

That's my story of Las Vegas, and we didn't want it left there.

Posted By M. R. Cordova on April 7, 2008, 2:31 PM

We like Vegas, it's tackiness notwithstanding. We wait for Bally's/Paris/et al to send us their hot deal sheets for free or reduced rate rooms, then book direct flights from Anchorage and back (US Airways). It's fun, warmer than here, great for people watching and, if you're at least a bit adventurous, rent a car and drive around - Vegas is wa-a-ay more than the Strip and Fremont St. There's Summerlin, Red Rocks, Hoover Dam, etc. We don't do much gambling, but the eats are good, like the little sushi place hidden away in the basement of Bally's. And, we get to see shows like Mama Mia, and the various Cirques. After three or four days, we're ready to come home, but always look forward to coming back, 'cause it's relatively cheap fun, compared to other vacation spots like Hawaii.

Posted By Steve on April 7, 2008, 2:40 PM

Been to Vegas a few times, and had a great time each trip. I'm not a big gambler, but find it fun to play quarter slots. Don't spend over $20. a day(unless I happen to be winning, and I do sometimes). I'm not a food snob, stay off the strip at a "locals" hotel, eat lunch at Caesar's, esp. Cheesecake Factory. Mostly we go to Red Rock, Valley of Fire, Mt. Charleston, Lake Mead, and once to Grand Canyon. People watching is fun for me, too, and I love wandering through the strip hotels. Window shopping is fun, too. Took a gondola ride in Venetian, and yes, it is fake but still fun and reasonable. Planning another trip for December. Have to save up, though, I'm not wealthy! Best is to go with girlfriends. Husbands don't usually like to shop or do lunch.

Posted By Mary S on April 7, 2008, 2:40 PM

Been to Vegas a few times, and had a great time each trip. I'm not a big gambler, but find it fun to play quarter slots. Don't spend over $20. a day(unless I happen to be winning, and I do sometimes). I'm not a food snob, stay off the strip at a "locals" hotel, eat lunch at Caesar's, esp. Cheesecake Factory. Mostly we go to Red Rock, Valley of Fire, Mt. Charleston, Lake Mead, and once to Grand Canyon. People watching is fun for me, too, and I love wandering through the strip hotels. Window shopping is fun, too. Took a gondola ride in Venetian, and yes, it is fake but still fun and reasonable. Planning another trip for December. Have to save up, though, I'm not wealthy! Best is to go with girlfriends. Husbands don't usually like to shop or do lunch.

Posted By Mary S on April 7, 2008, 2:41 PM

Vegas is one of the best guilty pleasures out there. And for all of you who seem to think the $600/night Wynn rooms are the standard price, you're way wrong. go to the websites of the numerous other Strip hotels (New York New York, Monte Carlo, Luxor, Flamingo, Treasure Island) and ALL have specials for $69-$150/night. You just have to know when to go. I agree with another commenter-- get the "Players' Club" card for each casino. They'll send you great deals for discounted, even free rooms, and you don't have to gamble that much. I get an e-mail or two a week about discounted rooms.

Vegas is for grown-up kids, not children. Leave the little ones at home with Grandma and Grandpa. No one has ever said that Vegas is a place to bring kids. In fact, it's well-known it's the other way around.

Vegas is a wonderful escape, an entertainment mecca and is what you make it. Like someone else said, it's for fun, not analyzing. Vegas rules-- y'all have fun!

Posted By Julie on April 7, 2008, 2:44 PM

I've visited Vegas many times over the past forty years. I have seen nearly every show, seen all the museums and exhibits, visited and gambled all the casinos, and enjoyed the natural attractions of the surrounding area. Vegas is best for the following:
* business conventions, exhibitions, and shows that require lots of floor space, hotel rooms, and a variety of entertainment for visitors
* young, party people in their 20s and early 30s with money to burn at chic nightclubs
* high end gamblers (whales or big money) that love to be pampered
* girlfriend getaways with money for spa vacations
* guy getaways for sin and debauchery
* travelers whose preferred vacation is luxury-oriented, easily accessible, and reliable while not requiring sophistication or thought

Vegas is poor for the following:
* Authentic travel experiences with locals, historic sights, or significant cultural depth
* Learning or growth experiences
* Communing with nature or outdoor adventure

Since after the tenth or twelth Cirque, they really do all blend together, Vegas' entertainment, even if it is at half-price, begins to seem very bland to those who've visited many times. If you've never seen a Cirque du Soleil show, by all means, see one someday, preferably in your hometown. I do recommend Danny Gans and if you enjoy magic, either Lance Burton or Penn & Teller (avoid the God-awful David Copperfield who returns to town occasionally, as he did early in 2008). Both the Atomic Testing Museum and Liberace Museum are worth a visit and the neon sign outdoor exhibition in the downtown is nice for those who enjoy them. Red Rock is wonderful for those who want to break away from the casinos.

All in all, go to Vegas for business, to have fun with friends, or to gamble. Otherwise, go somewhere real, like Paris, Buenos Aires, or Beijing, for a more authentic travel experience.

Posted By Bob Burke on April 7, 2008, 2:47 PM

Vegas is just that, Vegas...when you try to compare it to anywhere else there is just no comparison. I've been going to Vegas off and on since the early '90s and have watched them change from sin to kids and families and back to sin again...thank god, the family thing was really disgusting. Vegas has no more sin, and is no more or less expensive than any big city, New York, LA, Paris, London. There are deals to be had in all too. Try the Second Street Grill off Fremont St. if you want a high quality meal for a reasonable price. Or stick to the In 'n Out Burger for the best in fast food. As for me, I play poker, and Vegas is the best place I have found for variation in games, player quality and ability to find a game at any hour of the day or night. Pure heaven for me.

So, choose to come to Vegas for what it has to offer you, not because some marketing firm of friend tells you it's the place to be. Or not, it's definitely not for everyone, but don't knock it for those who do like it.

Posted By DJB on April 7, 2008, 2:53 PM

Why do I enjoy Vegas! Let me count the ways:
1. Cheap, non-stop, flights from the Washington, DC area 2. Great hotels at affordable rates, unlike NYC (I recently stayed at Mandalay Bay for $89 per night wkday/$109 weekend - you have to know when to go and sign up for the players clubs to get offers). 3. The variety of entertainment can't be beat, there is something for every taste. I have flown to Vegas just to see some of my favorite performers and musicians like, Sting, Rolling Stones, Celine Dion, Bette Midler, Michael Franks, and Boney James. I have also seen every Cirque show and have heard some pretty good music in some of the lounges. 4. The Spas...ahhh - luxurious and affordable, this is where I spend most of my $$. 5. Dining options - Vegas can't be beat and I love being able to eat breakfast anytime of day I want to! 6. It's a total escape from the conservative, uptight, buttoned down, city I live in. 7. I feel safe - I'm a single female and 50% of my 27 visits have been solo. I've had great party fun with friends, coworkers, family and I've had relaxing, self-indulgent escapes on my solo trips. 8. Every time I go there is something new to see, somewhere new and fabulous to stay and eat...variety is what makes it great.
You have to take Vegas for what it is...an escape. and I too have noticed they are going back to the "sin city" theme.
I have traveled lots of places...Vegas is where I know I'm going to have a great time.

Posted By Elaine on April 7, 2008, 2:54 PM

to me Vegas looks like a city designed by a miniature golf course architect. That said, I've really tried to get into it, but I can find better restaurants, better shows, and better rooms elsewhere without the noise, crowds and other oddities.

Posted By Arlene on April 7, 2008, 2:57 PM

I loved Vegas so much I MOVED here. When you are a local, you get the majority of entertainment, drinks and food free. It's a rare week that I don't see or do something I would not have done as a tourist. Vegas is NOT for everyone--but it is for me. I agree with talk of the off strip casino's--but I still walk the strip at least 3 times a month. Good exercise and people watching at it's finest. Our favorite thing is to set the alarm at 2 am and go out and watch the people leave clubs or go to Drais at Bill's. It is a site to see, but again, not for everyone. Expand your horizons and try Ellis Island for the karoke and the steak deal, Santa Fe Station for the free jazz on Wednesdays and Silverton for the mermaids. Every vacation is what YOU make it--just like everything else.

Posted By Carrie on April 7, 2008, 2:58 PM

Well, I have to say I love it and hate it. The people watching, the resorts, the loss of time, the way time just blends from one day to the next with no regard for your final destination. I've been to Vegas twice over the past two years and have had a decent time. The first time I was out there with a friend of mine that is considered by most to be a "whale" so he drug me along for the ride and I got free meals and free drinks not to mention that my resort was paid for by my work. So my trip was quite inexpensive in that regard - BUT after adding up receipts, for 4 nights and 5 days my unexpensible costs totalled over $1500 not including gambling of an additional $200. Now, I see people comparing your costs in Vegas to cruises and such. I took a full 7-day cruise to three ports of call in a balcony suite (which we did in October - one month before we traveled to Vegas for a convention), gambled and enjoyed having more fun for the same price and all food was included.

We did an all-inclusive to Mexico, had a blast and met interesting people for 7-days and it still only cost us $2500 and it included ALL I could drink.

So for 4 nights, the first which fell during the down time of Tuesday and Wednesday so many of the clubs and shows were not even available. I spent most of my money on Thursday and Friday night. You can't get into some of the nice clubs and sit down without a $300-$400 bottle charge. Attended 'KA' and 'O' at $165 a pop. I gambled $100 on nickel slots in hopes I could milk a couple drinks - not so, $100 only lasted me 30 minutes and it took me that long to locate a waitress. Nothing like a $100 beverage! LOL... anyway, all-in-all there were things I loved and things I hated about Vegas - We loved the Claim Jumper in Henderson - wonderful food. We spent a lot of time driving around in Henderson - really nice area. The strip is cool to see if you've never seen it, but you can take a much better 7-day vacation for the same amount you'd spend in Vegas over 4 days.

Total 5-day costs staying at the Mandalay Bay Resort with a discount rate flattened out for us conventioners at $200/night my total out of pocket expenses were $2350 plus incidentals like $11 internet service per day. GEEZ... Nickel and dimed to death... :)

Posted By Chris from Big D on April 7, 2008, 3:03 PM

Las Vegas used to be a great place to live when I was a kid, it was small and glamorous, it took all of fifteen minutes to cross. Most of the people who lived there were ranchers and Mormons. Everyone else had come to run the NEW hotels on the strip. I lived there for forty years. It was always a cheap place to stay and eat for people passing through. A great place for famous entertainers and professional gamblers and those who wanted to try their luck. The people from California came to Vegas, we went to California, that's just how it was. I've never understood what draws people to Vegas. It was always a place of Vices for people with...Vices. There are more drunk drivers per capita than any other city in the United States. There are hidden sub-cultures of drugs and every type of sex, both natural and un-natural that your mind can think of...and then some. Children grow up there knowing things that children should never know; and they think it's "normal", they think this "world" is normal. It's not. There are more con people in Vegas than you can even imagine; rings of college girls who get you to your room and take your wallet and run, so the local police can laugh at you when you are really that Stupid to take someone you don't know to your room! You name it the CON is Yours. The city itself WILL take your money, the Dealers are wondering why you just don't give them your wallet and access to your bank account and go home where you belong. It's a city of sick obsessed people, people thinking they will get "lucky"...you want to get lucky? Go home and play with your kids, you'll be luckier for it.
The Men who attend conventions make it a priority to find a couple of Hookers the first night in and if they are lucky they Don't take an STD home to their wives. Whatever your Vice, you will find it easily here. SIX thousand people a month turn their drivers licenses in to the DMV to live here...a steady influx for the last ten years. There are hardly any Natives left and those of us who still remember what it used to be like are wondering what happened to our City. And then we remember that Greed and Vice rule the day and continue to feed the depraved needs of the people who still come. I've come to hate my "home town" and if my family didn't live there, I would never return....it reminds me of...Hell in disguise. What I know and what I've seen there, what I have seen that place to do to people; and the list of the Dead is enough to make my skin crawl. Vegas is for the Living Dead looking for what they will never find, spend enough time there...and you will see, OR Become One Them.
Don't waste your time...Life is for Living. And if you go anyway....get out as fast as you can.
PS...have a Hepatitus shot, any Doctor will tell you that Hepatitus is a real danger when you eat Hotel food, especially Buffets.
Have a good day.

Posted By Suzanne on April 7, 2008, 3:04 PM

My wife and I just got back from Las Vegas after spending 5 days (4 nights) celebrating our 38th wedding anniversary. This time, we spent only 1 night in town and the other 3 nights @ Bryson Canyon, Utah. Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are only a few hours drive away and offer a welcome contrast to urban living. We have seen shows at the Wynn, but prefer to stay at the Best Western or someplace cheap. We spend our money on shows and site seeing rather than give it to the casino's.

Posted By B. Musick on April 7, 2008, 3:08 PM

I have never understood the fascination with Vegas.
I have never been and have absolutely no desire to go. I would rather see the architecure and history of the real Europe rather than a feaux, glamorized, tastless version.

Posted By Ron W. on April 7, 2008, 3:09 PM

I moved to Vegas in 1943 left in 1951 5th grade thru hi-school. it was fabulous to grow up in, you had somewhere to go day and night. After a date at the movies we'd go out to the Last Frontier and for a 50 cent cup of coffiee watch a great floor show. I live with wonderful memories, but now its too hard to go from one place to the other, toooo crowded and too expensive. the best deal in town is the Bellagio Fountains. but there is more red rocks, lake mead,the dam even the brunch at Paris. I learned to never gamble i watched those casinos grow!!! no i could live the rest of my life and not go back, yet i do get a desire to feel the desert in my soul and pretend its the same.

Posted By BEVERLY LAFONTAINE on April 7, 2008, 3:09 PM

My husband and I stayed at the MGM Grand in 2003. The customer service there was horrible. We were awakened in the middle of the night by a loud ruckus in a room a few doors down that went on seemingly for hours even after phone calls. When we went to the front desk to complain the clerk's exact words were a huffy "What do you want US to do about it?!" No comp, no change of room, not even an apology. The next day we decided we wanted to take a side trip the following day, one widely advertised around the hotel, but none of the places we called had any openings. When we went to the concierge she literally laughed at us: "You want to go TOMORROW?!" I'll never set foot in that place again, and after being bombarded by all the (legal?) Hispanics snapping and thrusting porn cards in our faces AND the uber-friendly timeshare sellers I'll probably never go to LV again either. I didn't even like the "Fremont Street Experience"; with the street pedestrianized and the light structure overhead it left me feeling like I was in a shopping mall. Wasn't worth the trip!

Posted By Mary on April 7, 2008, 3:16 PM

I am overwhelmed at the amount of people ready to complain a red streak about vegas, then proceed to explain how many times they go a year and where they stay. I got back from my trip yesterday and everytime I go, I find 5 more things I want to do on my next trip out. On my next agenda I am going to do the helicopter tour around the strip and red rock, and the "Bodies" exhibit at the Tropicana is certainly worth the time.

Posted By Jessica on April 7, 2008, 3:17 PM

I know you are looking for more comments on those who love Las Vegas, but it seems there are those that loath it more than like it and I am one of loathers. I was unfortunate enough to have lived there for two years and I got to know it far too well. I experienced not just the "Strip" but all of the "local areas" as well. "Sin City" is exactly what the name implies. It is still run by gangsters and people who enjoy living immoral, selfish, decadent lives. I like to have fun, but not at the expense of others and that is what Vegas truly stands for. My husband worked for Steve Wynn and he is one the biggest offenders. He abused and overworked his employees only to line his greedy pockets. Al Pacino portrayed him perfectly in Oceans 13! So, when those of you go to have fun in the land of sin, just remember whose pockets you are really lining!

Posted By Amanda on April 7, 2008, 3:17 PM

Well, I have always felt this way about Vegas. I actually find it boring. The last time we were there we stood around trying to figure out something to do, and I was with friends for whom money is not an object... I think if you don't drink to excess, or gamble, per se, or aren't into shopping, or illicit sex in all it's forms then there's not a lot to do. The Cirque shows are good, and some of the others, but what do you do all during the day -- if you aren't sleeping off a hangover or don't want to spend the entire day in the spa ??

Posted By KB on April 7, 2008, 3:19 PM

You asked what you're missing - it's simple: You're missing the 60's, 70's and even the early 80's ... after that, almost as the song says - 'They tore down paradise ... but in this case they didn't even bother putting up a parking lot! The first time I couldn't cross the strip on foot because of all the barricades, I knew they had killed Vegas more than even Howard Hughes did! Too badm SOOOO sad.

Posted By Hank Hollman on April 7, 2008, 3:20 PM

there is no glamour to vegas. in fact, the tacky chic one expects to see is also gone. vegas has been turned into one huge cheesy town with no charm and even less character. I am single and have no children but the thought of bringing a family to vegas makes me sick. casinos used to have respect for their players - adults enjoying their vices were treated well - and now these casinos are marketing to children as if they were disneyworld. with all the beautiful and exciting places in the world why go to vegas?

Posted By anthony on April 7, 2008, 3:27 PM

I'm disappointed that you do not like Las Vegas, especially since I'm flying out there in 2 weeks! Coming from the east coast (Fair Lawn, NJ), going to Las Vegas has always had more appealing to me than Atlantic City because there is just so much more offered. It has gotten more expensive there, but I enjoy going to the different restaurants and don't mind paying for a good meal. I haven't been to Wynn, though I may stop to see it so I can have my own opinion on the matter. The weather is more appealing to me as well, where I can use the pool during the day, then eat, drink, and be merry at night (not get married, though!!)!

Posted By Brian Metzler on April 7, 2008, 3:31 PM

I am a mother of two and I still love Las Vegas! I am not a huge gambler but being from the north east, I love the temperature, the Mirage pool, the Beatles LOVE, the shopping, the dining, the shows. There is something for everyone. Maybe it is because you grew up in a different, better Vegas....One I know nothing about because I started going about four years ago and it is one of my favorite places to relax, unwind, and be an adult ( the kids stay with grandma!).

Posted By Britt on April 7, 2008, 3:31 PM

Why don't you try the Harrah's properties. Every customer is important to Harrah's, even the smaller player. Comps are easy to attain.

One thing is for sure. You go to Vegas for the entertainment...Celine Dion, last year...Bette Midler this year. I also went to the Nascar race this year. I am going to opening of Cher next month. These shows and events have been comped. I disagree about the food too. There is great food everywhere. Try Bally's Steak for the Sunday Brunch...by far the best brunch in America...or maybe try Mon Ami Gabi at Paris for some outstanding steaks with a French flair.

Las Vegas is hardly boring, with things changing and improving every week. And with proper planning and control, I don't think you can get a better value for your entertainment/vacation dollar anywhere in America.

Dave

Posted By David on April 7, 2008, 3:38 PM

Vegas is great I go twice a year. Love the shows (going in May will see Cher one night and barry manilow the next) Flying to the Grand Canyon another day. Sure its expensive, but cheaper than Europe where thanks to our goverment US currency is equal to a 3 world countrie.
Love to play Blackjack. The Flamingo sends me free room cupons several times a year. If I use FF miles or get a cheap airfare its great.
My home state of Georgia does not have any casinos and to damn many Republicans in office to have fun.

Posted By Richard G Rhodes on April 7, 2008, 3:41 PM

When we go to Vegas these days, we avoid the Strip and instead head to Lake Las Vegas. It's heavenly there, a world apart. It's calm, serene, and relaxing. Strolling the Mediterranean-style village, eating a gelato, taking a gondola cruise on the lake, golfing, spa-ing . . . beautiful.

After visiting Lake Las Vegas, I don't think I'll ever go back to the Strip again!

Posted By gadgetlady on April 7, 2008, 3:59 PM

I just spent one day in Vegas, then went 90 miles south to Laughlin and stayed at the Riverside Resort. Laughlin still has that old Las Vegas feel and pricing. Vegas has gotten out of hand, the food is now expensive as well as the room rates.
If you loved old Vegas, give Laughlin a try. You'll be glad you did. If you don't like it, its only 90 miles back to Veges. Have fun either way

Posted By BRIAN RUSS on April 7, 2008, 4:02 PM

I cannot agree more. As noted above, the Hofbrau haus was the shining light in an otherwise over-priced, under delivered, input overlaoded trip. I'd rather see the Eiffel tower for five minutes than have unlimited trips to Lost Wages.
I like authentic things, not cheap, showy imitations.
Just me and to each his/her own....

Posted By ACRijk on April 7, 2008, 4:05 PM

I love Vegas!!! There, I said it!
I mean no disrespect, but I have a hard time understanding how you can decide you hate Vegas from restaurant ads for one lousy, overpriced hotel. And the rest of the bloggers have reasons other than that, but they should not be going to Vegas if they do not gamble or have kids. Let's be realistic here, it's a place for gamblers, and gamblers are over 18.
The shows are fantastic, there is greeeat shopping, you CAN find fabulous food, you just have to know where to go, and yes, everything is expensive but it is Vegas, you go there to spend money (or win it if you're lucky). If you want a cheap vacation with lights, go to Reno.
I don't know, maybe its different because I'm only thirty and never experienced the pre-strip Vegas, but I for one LOVE it and can't wait to go back! Get dressed up everyday, walk around with a drink if you want, go play some games, tan at the pool or go to a pool party with live bands, choose from an array of snazzy night clubs, and then dress down a day on Fremont if you wish. You name it you got it, all in one town.
Coming from someone that lives in D.C. with th daily humdrum of business and gray buildings, the lights, music and action of Vegas is a great escape.

Posted By Rosie on April 7, 2008, 4:06 PM

Buffets!!!

There are horrible "HomeTown Buffet" types like Circus Circus, and meat-lover favorites like the Rio, but there are others that I absolutely love, and crave when I'm not there:

The Paris for dinner, yum yum yum, the Bellagio for breakfast, also have enjoyed the Mirage. If you go slightly early for dinner, or go on a weeknight, there isn't even that much of a wait.

Posted By Elena-Beth Kaye on April 7, 2008, 4:09 PM

Sadly I must confess, "Vegas isn't what it used to be.... Everything is fixed nothing is left to chance, Can't even slip the waiter a Twenty and get a better table, for that matter a Fifty doesn't work anymore

Posted By Vic Korner on April 7, 2008, 4:09 PM

Here's why I love Las Vegas:

You can stay at a luxury hotel with fabulous pools and entertainment for very little money.

Last month we stayed at the Luxor in a suite for about $130 a night, which included goodies like dining discounts and 2-for-1 spa passes.

We rented a cabana at the pool for $100 per day, where we hung out in the shade on comfortable lounge chairs. Included in the price were too-many-to-drink sodas in the refrigerator, a big bowl of fresh fruit, a TV and private sitting area. We had a "cabana boy" to call whenever we wanted anything (like a reasonable priced lunch from the sandwich shop inside the casino).

Rather than loosing our shirt gambling, we spent most of our evenings walking around the strip's free entertainment spots. We watched them feet the lions at MGM Grand, saw the sexy pirate show at Treasure Island, viewed the musical fountains at Bellagio, listened to the singing gondola guys at the Venetian, and laughed at the high-priced clothes at the Ceasar Palace shops. When our kids were younger we'd take them to the Secret Garden at Mirage, the Shark exhibit at Mandalay Bay and King Tut's Tomb at Luxor.

We also like the food variety. The small town we live in does not have fancy restaurants, so we enjoy the reasonal priced choices in Las Vegas.
The outdoor restaurant at the Paris is wonderful, and so is the Italian place at New York New York. They may not be gourmet enough for snobs, but they're fun and tasty.

Posted By Mara on April 7, 2008, 4:13 PM

We try to go twice a year, Nov/Dec-ish and April-ish. Las Vegas is great, it is like Disney Land only most things are free. It is almost as much fun as wandering around Manhattan only you can do it there in the NY NY casino.

We get lots of exercise, we walk at least 5 miles every day while we are there. You get lots of exercise just walking from the hotel parking garages to the Strip and walking around the shopping at Cesar's, Venetian, Fashion Place, etc.

We stay at an extended stay place, 1 mile from Las Vegas Blvd, breakfast is free. Dinner is at Terrible's Buffet, we use the 2-for-1 discount.

The downtown Freemont St scene is great, free light show and $1 deep fried Twinkies.

I can't wait to see the new Palazzo when we are there this month.

Posted By Rick on April 7, 2008, 4:23 PM

We have traveled to Vegas from the midwest 1-2 times each year since 1987. Although not as exciting as the first few years, we still enjoy our getaway for 2-3 days. We no longer spend much time on the strip except for a special show we may want to see. We do our homework before we leave--checking out the internet, organizing our coupons, and always renting a car so that we can travel all over the city. So far, our meals have been very reasonable because we plan ahead. As far as gambling, we play the full-pay video poker, and $5 Blackjack. Occasionally, one of us will come home ahead. We are still enjoying our Vegas trips and staying within our budget. I agree, Vegas is for adults only.

Posted By Diane on April 7, 2008, 4:31 PM

I have gone through stages of loving and hating Vegas for the past 40 years. At 20 I honeymooned there, at 40 I judged the hell out of the place for being shallow, and now at 60, I am back loving it again.
I think if you hate it, you are just resisting your own feeling and doing a "should" about what you feel. I say forget it and feel how you want to feel. Don't try to push through your resistence. It is futile!
I have felt the same positive/negative feelings about Italy, France and Great Britain. I think it is normal as we evolve, shift and change.
I do the same thing with food and beverages, haven't you?
Vicky

Posted By vicky on April 7, 2008, 4:45 PM

I find putting money into slot machines in the knowledge that I will lose it about as exciting as watching paint dry. And I find casinos, with their clattering noise, lack of windows, enclosed feeling and general tawdriness, to be oppressive and stressful. But I still like Vegas.
You can stay in the Golden Gate at the end of Fremont quite cheaply. This is the oldest hotel in Vegas, the rooms are small and old-fashioned - but the housekeeping is excellent and the food downstairs is both good and cheap.
The Golden Gate has a car park where you can leave your car for free - and it is this key to enjoying Vegas: to get out of it.
Travel to the northwest and you can find coolness as you climb into the pine forests of the Mt Charleston wilderness, which covers a huge area. At one point you can gaze into the distance at the site where the first atom bombs were tested - but the main point of being there is the peace and the scent of pine.
Just outside Vegas, to the west, is Spring Mountain Ranch state park, with great views of the mountains, trails to follow and a tortoise sanctuary. The area round Vegas is teeming with wildlife.
South of Henderson you can stop at the big dam at Boulder and take a tour into the thing - you see some of the turbines and get an idea of the size and the vast potential power of the water. Though they don't tell you about the vicious exploitation of the people who came to work on the project in the 1930s - and how the bosses paid thugs to try to stop the workers forming a union to defend themselves. Many men died making the Hoover Dam.
Near the dam you can visit the town of Boulder which was built to house some of the workers. Nowadays it's a twee place and you see a lot of handicrafts and antiques on sale.
Vegas has a superb library service, with free internet and wifi for visitors, among other excellent services.
Unfortunately this is about the only proper cultural resource the city has, though I did once watch a performance of Hamlet put on at the Community College. Afterwards I wished I hadn't, as the actors stormed rapidly through their lines without feeling, making it impossible to enjoy the poetry of the words.
Type "concert" into the internet list of Vegas's cultural events and rather than the Berliner Philharmonic you will find something like "Fred Jones". He will turn out to be a country and western singer - and there may be a barbeque in the local park where he's performing, so it could be a decent night out after all.
If you can go to Vegas outside high summer - when the local people retreat inside from the heat, rather like people do from the cold during a northern winter - Vegas has a lot to offer. You need to do a little research in the local papers and on the internet.
The only place you won't find anything worth doing is on its awful strip, in its big casinos, and among all the seedy tawdry glitter that the people who run the town use so successfully to part the gullible from their cash!

Posted By Ian Chandler on April 7, 2008, 4:52 PM

Whatever appeal Las Vegas as a city may have lost it remains in a wonderful location - in a series of day trips you can visit Hoover Dam, Death Valley, drive from desert floor to snow-capped mountains in 30 minutes, visit the Mojave Dessert, Zion National Park, perhaps see the Thunderbirds training over Nellis or even make a long day trip to the Grand Canyon.

Hard to beat!

Posted By Peter on April 7, 2008, 5:01 PM

I couldn't believe I got this in my in box today!! I was driving back from work today thinking of all the reasons I LOVE LAS VEGAS!!!
My first trip was about 10 years ago and the last time I was there was about 4 weeks ago-it won't be my last trip for sure!! I didn't have children 10 years ago, I do know and I still love that town-always changing-you could eat at a different (excellent)restaurant every night of the year and not hit them all. The weather is great most months out of the year. The shopping, the hotels, the gambling-it's just a "sexy" town. The shows are some of the best in the world. Something for almost everyone. (I would have said "everyone" till I read some of the posts). I could go there with all adults and have more than plenty to do or I could go with my 6 yr old and have plenty of other things to do. I will say however that I do think the days of "cheap hotels and buffets" are numbered , but there are some left-just not as many as in previous times. You could go to that town and do all the $5.00 tables, nickel slots and $6.00 buffets and "free shows" and not know what you were missing at places like the Wynn and Bellagio-although they are definatly worth checking out for the scenery. I went to Fairmont St for the first time a month ago-I couldn't believe how much fun I had and it was a cheaper night then hanging out on the strip...completely different crowd...we even got a lesson on "Craps" at the Golden Nugget". On the flip side, we hung on the strip the previous night, ate at TAO-a phenominal rest., spent ooldes of money and didn't know what we were missing in old Vegas-Seriously, there is SOMETHING for everyone in this city, I would be MORE than willing to give some helpful pointers. I have been many places all over the world and Vegas is in a league all her own;)

Posted By Steph on April 7, 2008, 5:16 PM

Next to Bucharest, Las Vegas is the worst place in the world.

Posted By AzIrish on April 7, 2008, 5:24 PM

I first discovered Vegas in '93 and almost relocated there; unfortunatly it seems, judging by news reports emminating from there, that there is rising violent crime (gangsters) stemming from the imposition of a "snctuaty city". The casinos USED to be a place where one could have $85K on their person and be perfectly safe...Mr. Wynn, are you listening...?

Posted By David on April 7, 2008, 5:43 PM

for someone visiting vegas for the first time,i think they would enjoy it. it's expensive, but most popular vacations spots are too.
there are deals to be had if you look for them on your computer, etc.
i'm a so. califorhian who's been going there for over 40 yrs. it's changed a lot during that time.
it was much better before the corporations owned them. now, they have to make money from every operation, such as food, rooms, etc.
for a long time, they catered to families and there were many things to do for children.
now the hotels admit that they did away from the family thing and are going after primarily affluent and high rollers.
the l.a. times writes about vegas every week and talks about the nite clubs that charge $350 for a bottle of vodka, $100 + dinners on the strip, etc.
i go to vegas twice a year and stay off the strip.
for instance, i'm going to sam's town for derby week and get a discounted rate of $75 per nite. they have a great Italian restaurant which is never crowded and a very busy steak house which is just so, so. we never miss going to Lawry's,probab ly the best prime rib restaurant in the country, where the price is moderate. for somebody that has been to vegas many times, the strip has outpriced me, its crowded and i wouldn't go there anymore.

Posted By ray block on April 7, 2008, 5:48 PM

I got married in Las Vegas 18 years ago, the same weekend that the Mirage opened, which was the initial transition of old Vegas to new Vegas. My husband and I visited Vegas frequently, staying at most of the new hotels as they opened. I remember old Vegas quite well, the cheap (99 cent) shrimp cocktails, the $1.99 steak and egg breakfasts (served all day)... Now the best gourmet chefs in the world are there, selling $40.00 entrees (ala carte) and the hotels are a little more Disney-esque and less dated.

I have discovered that there are a lot of places in and around Las Vegas that still capture that old Vegas feel. It will never again be that glamorous place that the rat-pack performed at during the 60's, but it transcended past the broken down resort town of the 70's and 80's. And now it seems to be starting another transition - away from the family fun city of the 90's and early 00's and back to the adult playground that it was the original Las Vegas.

I will be going to Vegas in the next couple of months. It may be one of my last trips (my husband and I are moving out of the country) It is unfortunate that there are no longer many bargains to be had, but there is no place that beats the "City that never sleeps" for it's diversity of attractions.

I will never forget, walking my husband to his car (he was attending a convention/class) and stopping -for just a minute- in the casino on the way back to my room. It was 5:00am and the place was deserted, except for some custodial staff. I played the quarters, won a nice jackpot ($200.00 was quite exciting back then) and realized that in the quiet of the casino, jumping around and yelling in victory did not seem appropriate. Those were the days when the slot machines paid out loudly, and the quarters clanging into the tray and a distant vacuum were the only sounds in the entire casino. I don't know if the casino's are ever that quiet anymore.

Posted By Jackie Butts on April 7, 2008, 6:07 PM

I too hate Vegas, mainly because it's a monument to waste and excess. It sucks up all the water and power from the surrounding areas to create a fake paradise for the easily amused. When I'm there (not by choice - usually for a convention or a friend's wedding) I feel dirty, sort of like when I walk into a Wal-Mart.

Posted By darkstar on April 7, 2008, 6:33 PM

I don’t just visit Las Vegas, I live here. I love it here; I've been here for 10 years. Now the strip I avoid with a passion, I hate the strip. The traffic the tourist, they drive me insane, and if you’ve seen one new hotel you’ve seen them all.
For me I like going up into Henderson to see some local bands play at the Red Rooster or if I’m in a mood for punk I will go to The Double Down, located off of Tropicana and Swenson. If I feel like doing the outdoors type of thing I can drive out to Red Rock Canyon and go for a hike. I can also go to Lake Mead or the Grand Canyon. If I want to spend the day with my dog I can take him out to Sunset Park or too many other places.
As a child my dad loved to drive us out here from Southern California and torture us with the idea of nothing to do. Mind you this was back in the ‘80’s so coming out here then as a child wasn’t great, but it has gotten somewhat better for kids. Expensive, but now they have something to do. Children can go to the Adventure Dome at Circus Circus or ride the roller coasters at New York, New York and Sahara’s. When I was a kid we sat in a hotel room and watched the news.
I have lots of fun out here in Vegas and I don’t gamble. There are so many things to do here now, thanks to the tourists, that I can go out with friends and not realize that I do live in such a popular tourist destination. This is my home and I love it here, all we locals ask is that you don’t say “What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas.” It’s annoying to hear people say it all day long, over and over again. All I can say is give it up, it’s not cool and fresh, it hasn’t been in over two years.

Posted By Renee on April 7, 2008, 7:05 PM

Dear Erik:

My husband and I have visited Vegas many times in the last 8 years and are always ready to go back! I'd like to explain the allure that Vegas holds for us.

First and foremost, we DECIDE to have a good time - wherever we go. And we do! Even in circumstances that would try most Americans' souls. Because travel, to us, is a privilege that we've earned, and because seeing the best and the beauty in any situation means your glass is always (at least) half full.

And so it is with Vegas. It's a fairy tale of fun, a place where the worries of work are far behind, the watch can be placed in the drawer, the diet forgotten, the "musts" and "shoulds" tabled for awhile.

It is astounding that we have received at minimum civil and sometimes lavish treatment by folks in casinos, hotels, restaurants, clubs, venues, and retail establishments. Our nights have been reasonable, given the season, and the food has ranged from interesting to tasty to delish. Our winnings, likewise, have ranged from zip-zero-zilch to several hundred dollars in 5 minutes on a slot machine. We've seen extraordinary shows that never circuit to the midwest, and made purchases from shops not found at home.

We gamble up and down the strip - and off. We've stayed at Rio, TI, Harrah's, Aladdin/Planet Hollywood, Paris, MGM, Luxor, NYNY - and off the strip at extended-stay type hotels - and always had pleasant dreams. We've eaten pizza and shared a banana split in the "pretend" NY streets; tasted exotic foods at buffets - and still managed to waddle out; spent a buck on a hot dog and, because of the company and people watching, enjoyed it equally to an expensive steak dinner.

We've had tears in our eyes reading the messages hung around the Statue of Liberty after 9/11. We've been awed by Ka and laughed out loud at the Smothers Brothers (among many other fine acts). We've held hands and strolled the strip, the downtown, and off the strip where the locals go. Each trip, we've spent an hour at the fountains with Frank Sinatra, no words needed. And never have we felt unsafe.

Vegas has also served as a "turn-around" spot in our southwest travels to Bryce, Zion, the Grand Canyon (both sides), Sedona, and the Four Corners.

And it goes without saying that it's an interesting environment to witness economy in action... and gives hope for those who would think we are all drowning in debt, foreclosures, poor health, and joblessness...

(We also make it a point to ignore the unsightliness of the stripper ads, and write the mayor each time we return home. Sigh.)

Is Vegas like London? The Scottish highlands? Vienna or Salzburg? Thailand? Of course not. It's not Denali, the Rockies, the Adirondacks, or the Smokies, either -- some of our other loves. It can't compare to nature's grandeur. Nor should it be. But it can rank with other man-made excitement, if you want it to.

My advice: Travel differently next time. Check out the little places where tourists don't frequent. Or decide to spend as little money as possible, seeking out the values and deals. Or decide to gamble one hour in each casino on the west side, then move on to the next, then the next. Perhaps eat only off the strip. Or see if you can stay in one hotel, dining, gambling, seeing a show, yes - even napping, without leaving for one day. Or take an excursion to Red Rock or Grapevine for some hiking and burrow-spotting.

There is always something within the fairy tale that surprises us, engages us, and makes us believe in people - and a little magic - each visit. So yes, Erik, you CAN like Vegas. But the secret is to just be you; enjoy it YOUR way. (And that may not be The Wynn.) The best thing is, though, you don't have to be stuck on Vegas. We'll do it for you!

The days may be long but the years are short. Enjoy!

Posted By Julie on April 7, 2008, 7:21 PM

Love Vegas....I think the farther a person live from it, the better they like it. It is fantasyland for adults. I don't like the "family" stuff, it does seem out of place, but I treat it like a grown up Disneyland. I expect to spend money without getting money back. I enjoy getting a bang for my buck, whether it's a show, a buffet, a table game, M&M world, or one of the really, really fine restaurants or fun night clubs. Also, there is alot of free entertainment and people watching can be extraordinarily fun. I like to go about once a year just to see how long I can go without sleep, how much I can eat, how far I can walk the strip, how many M&M's I can buy to take home for everybody else, cuz if I win, that's where my money goes. That's about as sinful as I get.

Posted By Deb on April 7, 2008, 7:33 PM

I'm "betting" most of the staunchist defenders are those American Princes & Princesses who haven't had to worry about where their next buck was coming from since Daddy got them their used Porsche in college!

Posted By IndyMo on April 7, 2008, 7:47 PM

vegas rules:
one may only go to vegas for:
a) a concert
or
b) a football game
and one must stay for no more than 2 days or one will either:
a) turn into a trashy (and no longer fun) pirate or wench at treasure island
or
b) implode.

Posted By janiece on April 7, 2008, 8:26 PM

In DEFENSE of Vegas

Friends

I can totally understand your displeasure with Las Vegas, but you might try understanding that each destination meets different needs for different people. In the "olden days" my husband and I went occasionally to Las Vegas in connection with business. Since we don't enjoy gambling and don't drink it was only mildly fun - 2 nights at most.

Now I live full time in a 17th century colonial city in the Highlands of Mexico and we LOVE to go to Vegas for 5 nights every 2 years. For us, it is a delightful taste of inauthenticity and "make believe" for adults. I live where everything is always "real" including unpleasant "real" things like burro poop in front of my door. Vegas gives us a great change of pace. I like the shopping (both off-price and at the Fashion Mall), love many of the Restaurants and adore the shows. The shopping and the shows are things I never get enough of here at home.( We have authentic shows like Opera, Flamingo and Classical- but sometimes it is fun to see Roseanne Barr, the fake Platters and Ka) Shopping here is a nightmare. My feet are too big and prices are very high with lots of import duties on clothes, electronics - everthing.

For us this is a trip comparable to a short European week so we think the prices are cheap. Vegas is one of only about 3 USA cities that is different enough from the others that it merits a trip. Most USA cities are so much alike that I can no longer tell from the freeway whether I am in Houston, Atlanta or Chicago.

We still like San Francisco, New York, Downtown Chicago etc.- and the costs there will make Vegas look cheap. Of course we spend lots of time in "ordinary" USA cities like Tulsa because of relatives and that's where the real bargains are. Fabulous guest suite for $0.00 -but you will have a four year old in your face at five in the morning as compared to electronic black-out curtains that let you sleep until noon as we have at the Bellagio.

So the "awfulness" of Vegas gives it an identity. Costwise my room at the Bellagio for $179 weekdays and $250 weekends is a good deal compared with European capitals and Major USA urban areas

For people who want an authentic Colonial experience that is active in both the slow food and slow life movements - then San Miguel de Allende might be your place. But as a "real" place it has lots and lots of flaws and lots and lots of incredibly wonderful things. Like the flying men shown on this page. They are incredibly beautiful as they spin away from the pole with the sunset outlining their lithe bodies and giving everything a golden fiery glow.

Thanks for the chance to talk
Carol

Posted By Carol Latta on April 7, 2008, 8:30 PM

We had been to Vegas pre Paris, NY NY, et al. We loved it then. However we did a business trip for me last fall, and we couldnt wait to get on the plane home. I had to walk each day from Ballys to The Venetian, about a mile. THEN had to go what seemed to be another mile from the entrance to the conference room downstairs in the Venetian. Not that I minded the walk, but the little "jog" in the sidewalk in front of harrahs forces you thru thier little tacky Key West tshirt/margeritaville crap; or you are faced with walking in the street at your own peril. Food was way too expensive except at most of the buffets. At least they had food worth the price (seafood, sushi etc).
My husband made the rounds of the casinos while I worked. Nothing was paying even enough to keep you interested. But what appalled him was kids in the casinos - Ceasars being the worst! There were kids playing UNDER a working craps table, while their parents were somewhere on the slots. Vegas lost its luster when they made it for Family - ITS NOT, KEEP YOUR KIDS HOME!!! Errant adults, kids ,strollers - a nightmare!
The tram stops seemed miles away, cost too much once you got there, and went nowhere of importance.
Maybe its better off strip, but my money goes to reno next time if they get a nonstop someday. Or stays local on the Ohio riverboats.

Posted By Janet on April 7, 2008, 8:38 PM

We had the BEST time in Las Vegas! We've been traveling to Europe for the last 20 years and are fed up with a $13 hamburger and the lousiest coffee a "spoiled American" ever drank. Vegas was everything we needed. We stayed at the Paris and enjoyed a reasonable rate found on the web which included a few perks like free passes to their club and the Eiffel Tower. We were give some free play money to start which was nice. We enjoyed their fabulous french pastries every morning and walked them off while strolling the strip throughout the day. We found the Sands which had a very pleasant $6.99 buffet which we enjoyed thoroughly and took the $5/24 hour bus back to the hotel. We stood in line at the "2-fer" ticket house and got tickets to shows that were very funny and entertaining. We did have a high-dollar buffet one night at the Wynn, $45pp, with Sushi and exotic meats, which we knew would have cost hundreds had we eaten that oversees. The best part about Las Vegas is that everyone speaks english and the US dollar is worth just that!

Posted By aj on April 7, 2008, 8:52 PM

I just returned from Vegas yesterday after a 2-night stay at the Wynn. I thought it was wonderful. The rooms were gorgeous, the restaurants and shopping were maginificent and the pool was heavenly. I visited other hotels/casinos and was overwhelmed with the thousands of people everywhere. In some, you couldn't move around without running into someone, they were loud, and some seemed dirty. The Wynn had a good crowd, was clean and the staff were extraordinarily friendly. I can't wait to go back and I will stay at the Wynn every time. Oh, and the spa was to die for!

Posted By Kelli on April 7, 2008, 8:58 PM

I like Vegas for these:
Dining ( any cuisine), shows, shopping.
Thats IT.
I dont gamble.
I do like the worlds businesses in Vegas & some U never see in So CA alone.
I do feel Casinoes should outsource Food Services esp the Wynn for the cash U pay.

Only Vegas has:
Exotic car rentals
Great for bachelor parties
Trips to Grand Canyon, UT area alone.
Modern airport.
A-Z cuisines.
Best shopping ever.
Good looking women.
Good suburbs ( Henderson NV)
Try Green Valley Casino & Hanks for the best martinis ever.
The Las Vegas Yellow Pages is the Biggest for any US City alone A-Z for Vegas.

Posted By stephen russell on April 7, 2008, 9:04 PM

My husband and I do not gamble. We have nothing against it, but it's not for us. We never even thought of going to Las Vegas until our nephew decided to get married there. The atmosphere and the people watching are world class! You can find awesome food. And the shows! Wow. I had front row tickets to Jerry Seinfeld during Comedy Week in 11-07. I saw Rich Little (for those who remember him) live, and he was funnier than ever. I do not stay on the strip, it's like an ant hill on steroids. We always stay at the Golden Nugget and take taxis when we need to go to the strip. We love Fremont Street and all it has to offer.

Posted By Jerri E Sumrall on April 7, 2008, 9:57 PM

We just returned from Vegas - our daughter moved out there at Christmas.
I have never been to Vegas and now that I spent 5 days at Treasure Island, I have no desire to go back! The Strip is too crowded, hard to walk around and prices are sky high for everything. We did enjoy driving out to Red Rock Canyon and Lake Mead. Treasure Island was a bust, and the noise was overwhelming.
People, please keep your children at home!!! I was embarrassed for the young children who were witnessing the pure decadence on the street. It is fine when you are an adult, but the strip is NO PLACE FOR CHILDREN. I could not enjoy dinner,drinks or even walking on the strip for the strollers, baby packs, and toddlers running everywhere.

Posted By pat on April 7, 2008, 10:35 PM

What I find of most of my friends who really like Vegas is that they've never really been any other place. Once you've traveled a bit and have seen all the wonderful things that the world has to offer then Vegas just can't compete.

Posted By J on April 7, 2008, 10:59 PM

Wow! I thought the question was what do you love about Vegas....not what do you hate?!! My husband and I try to go at least once a year. It's our weekend of "adult" time without the kids. In fact.. it is our opportunity to rekindle that dating spark from years gone by. Of course it's expensive...what city isn't? (Have you tried booking a "reasonable" rate in Seattle or Mid-town Manhattan?) Vegas is what you make it. It can be an extremely relaxing AND enjoyable get away if you research ways to do what is important to you.

Posted By lisa on April 7, 2008, 11:39 PM

I, like many others on this post, used to frequent Vegas 2-3 times a year & I've always been a big fan of LV. I recently visited LV & I was so disappointed. In spite of all the building, it's gone downhill. Many of my reasons for saying that are the same as those who have left messages on this site. Sam's Town & Whiskey Pete's are better but I also had a bad experience at Sam's Town on this visit. I've stayed at the Excalibur many times & always liked the way I was treated but, this time, it was so bad I probably won't go there again. Every time we left our room to eat, gamble, see a show, etc., we were accosted by people trying to sell us shows, excursions, etc. They would grab our arms & not let go, follow us & give their spiels & we could hardly get away unless we were rude & nasty. It really starts your day off wrong (or night). Also, I have to say the shows, food, gambling were not worth the money. I don't mind spending a little money but, I want something for my money and, I didn't get it in Las Vegas. Next time, I'll t