If Homeland Security Ran Vegas

Starting January 1, 2008 the newly created Nevada Gaming Individual Fiscal Responsibility Department( NGIFRD ) in conjunction with Homeland Security, will be inspecting and possibly retaining for further questioning, people flying to McCarron International Airport. People boarding any aircraft bound for Las Vegas will be checked against a list of known Perpetual Losers ( Perpetual Losers Watch List ). How one gets on the list of known Perpetual Losers is classified, since the state of Nevada will understandably not divulge its sources and methods. The formula for detecting a PL is also subject to daily changes as conditions warrant, and also how often the Vegas hotels give away free buffets. One can only conjecture that getting on the PL list has something to do with unpaid markers and one's discretionary income being a small percentage of the average daily cost of being a tourist in Vegas ( daily statistics carefully kept by the Nevada Visitor's Bureau ). As an additional precaution, an unknown number of new scanners are being installed in the boarding areas of key USA airports which fly to Vegas. These sophisticated electronic devices immediately detect how much cash you are carrying in your wallet and the current balances on your credit cards. Those who do not pass a certain unpublished threshold may be retained for further questioning. Due to the need to protect the innocent from destroying themselves, authorities are being given unprecedented powers without even the need for a warrant or probable cause. Some of the many routine questions authorities are authorized to ask suspected losers are "Does your wife know you are gambling with your kid's college fund?" and "Do you know when is it OK to double down?"

If a person is on the PL watch list and they attempt to board an airplane bound for Vegas, they will immediately be given credit for any pre-paid portion of their Vegas trip and be politely asked to board another plane for Orlando. Arrangements will be made to forward their luggage.

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Someone from Orlando Florida asked WHV for an explanation of above intended humorous reference to Orlando: the second most favorite domestic vacation destination does not have gambling ( at least as the major activity! ).

"This year's top 10 domestic destinations for vacationers, according to Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates, Minneapolis, Minn., are Las Vegas, Nov.; Orlando, Fla.; Honolulu, Hawaii; Kahului, Maui, Hawaii; New York City; Anchorage, Alaska; Miami, Fla.; Phoenix/Scottsdale, Ariz.; Ft. Myers, Fla.; and San Francisco, Calif."

Site Of The Day - Las Vegas Concert Schedule

UPDATE: One of the best sites I have found so far for Las Vegas concert schedules is Las Vegas Concerts. Unfortunately, it is not always available.


UPDATE: For a calendar of Vegas events by the week you can't beat Las Vegas Logue.

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The Site Of The Day is Las Vegas Concerts, Headliners & Special Appearances Schedule from the Las Vegas Leisure Guide. Here is a list of concerts in the Las Vegas area through mid December. Check their site for updates.

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• Sep 14-15 - Everclear - 7pm, $39.50 & $47.50, Green Valley Ranch, 866-264-1818



• Sep 14-16 - Tito Puente, Jr. - 7:30pm, $22, $33 & $55, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Sep 14-16 - The Temptations - 8pm, $38.50, $49.50 & $66, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Sep 15 - KJUL Listener Appreciation Concert featuring Petula Clark and Sammy Shore - 8pm, FREE, Cannery, 866-287-4643



• Sep 15 - Michael Lington - 7pm, $19.95, $24.95 & $29.95, Santa Fe Station


• Sep 20-23 - George Carlin - 8pm, $55, $66 & $88, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Sep 21 - Robert Cray - 8pm, $24.95, $34.95, $42.50 & $47.50, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577



• Sep 21-23 - Paul Revere & the Raiders - - 7:30pm, $22, $33 & $55, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Sep 22 - The Pointer Sisters - 8pm, $TBA, Cannery, 866-287-4643


• Sep 26-30 - Neil Sedaka - 8pm, $44, $60.50 & $82.50, Orleans, 702-636-7075



• Sep 28 - Christian Scott - 7pm, $19.95, $24.95 & $29.95, Santa Fe Station


• Sep 28-30 - The Bellamy Brothers - - 7:30pm, $22, $33 & $55, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Sep 29 - "Rocktoberfest" Space Oddity - David Brighton's Tribute to David Bowie with Journey Unauthorized - 6pm, $5, Cannery, 866-287-4643



• Sep 29 - Charley Pride - 8pm, $24.95, $34.95, $44.95 & $54.95, Texas Station, 702-547-5300


• Oct 4 - Psychic Marlene Lombardi - 7:30pm, $19.95, Sunset Station, 800-872-6823


• Oct 5-7 - Tower of Power - 7:30pm, $33, $44 & $55, Suncoast, 702-636-7075



• Oct 5-7 - Dennis Miller - 8pm, $44, $60.50 & $77, Must be 18+, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Oct 5-7 - Don Rickles - - 9pm, $55 plus tax & Fees, Golden Nugget, 702-386-8100


• Oct 6 - Ray Price - 7pm, $24.95, $39.95 & $49.95, Santa Fe Station



• Oct 10 - Foghat - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Oct 12-14 - Bowzer's Rock n' Roll Dance Party - 7:30pm, $33, $44 & $55, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Oct 12-14 - Etta James - 8pm, $44, $60.50 & $82.50, Orleans, 702-636-7075



• Oct 13 - Oleta Adams - 7pm, $22.50, $32.50 & $37.50, Santa Fe Station


• Oct 18-21 - The Smothers Brothers - - 8pm, $27.50, $38.50 & $49.50, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Oct 19-21 - Susan Anton - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075



• Oct 19 - Eric Church - 7pm, $19.95, Santa Fe Station


• Oct 19 - George Jones - 8pm, $24.95, $34.95, $44.95 & $54.95, Texas Station, 702-547-5300


• Oct 20 - Bill Engvall - 9pm, $29.50, $39.50 & $49.50, Must be 21+, Green Valley Ranch, 866-264-1818



• Oct 26 - Diane Schuur - 8pm, $22.50, $32.50 & $37.50, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Oct 26-28 - Fred Travalena - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Oct 26-28 - Craig Ferguson - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075



• Nov 2-4 - Debbie Reynolds - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Nov 2-4 - Sinbad - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Nov 3 - Bonnie Tyler - 7pm, $22.50, $32.50 & $37.50, Santa Fe Station



• Nov 7-11 - Neil Sedaka - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Nov 9-11 - John Davidson - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Nov 10 - Hiroshima - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Nov 15-18 - 10th Anniversary Production of Lord of the Dance - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075



• Nov 15-18 - Donny Osmond - 8pm, $55, $71.50 & $93.50, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Nov 16 - Chris Botti - 7pm, $47.50 & $57.50, Green Valley Ranch, 866-264-1818


• Nov 16 - Marshall Tucker Band - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577



• Nov 17 - Tracy Lawrence - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Nov 17 - Peter White - 7pm, $24.95, $39.95 & $42.95, Santa Fe Station


• Nov 17-18 - Legendary Ladies of Rock n Roll featuring Leslie Gore & Shirley Alston Reeves - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075



• Nov 22-25 - George Carlin - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Nov 23-25 - Marie Osmond Magic of Christmas - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075


• Nov 30 - Yellowjackets - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Nov 30-Dec 2 - Jack Jones - 7:30pm, $TBA, Suncoast, 702-636-7075



• Dec 7 - Rodney Atkins - 8pm, $TBA, Boulder Station, 800-981-5577


• Dec 13-16 - Bill Engvall - 8pm, $TBA, Orleans, 702-636-7075


• Dec 14-15 - Phil Vassar - 7pm, $TBA, Green Valley Ranch, 866-264-1818

Top Ten Free Things To Do In Las Vegas

1. Freemont Street Experience
   
   Las Vegas is more than the just a gambling paradise. In the middle of downtown, there is historic “Freemont Street Experience”. It is a pedestrian walkway, covered by over 12 million lights! It is billed as the largest big screen on the planet. It displays live video feeds There are street performers, vendors and the light show plays every night.
   


2. Sirens Of TI
   
   A battle between a group of beautiful, tempting sirens and a band of renegade pirates. There are 4 family friendly shows nightly outside The Treasure Island Hotel. If you want to see this show I suggest you go early to get a good view, but be careful the closer you stand the wetter you get. It can be seen nightly at 7:00 p.m., 8:30 p.m., 10:00 p.m., and 11:30 p.m.
   


3. Fountain shows at Caesars
   
   No civilization put on a greater spectacle than ancient Rome, and now you have a chance to witness the glory for yourself at Caesars Palace's fountain shows. While there also check out the The Fall of Atlantis show, which features King Atlas in an Animatronic Battle filled with fire, lights, and water.
   


4. The Fountain Show At Bellagio
   
   Bellagio's world famous fountains dance to opera, classical and smooth music. The impressive size is sure to get your imagination going, as the water jets play their carefully choreographed movements. They usually operate every 15 minutes (sometimes delayed to weather conditions. There are plenty of different songs so feel free to stop back.
   
   
5. Lion Habitat at MGM Grand
   
   One look into the MGM Grand's lion habitat and you'll be hooked. The majestic cats command adoration whether they're chasing a large ball, licking their immense paws or just lyin' around. This attraction also allows you to take a picture with some lions. (for a fee)
   


6. Volcano at the Mirage
   
   Every hour after dusk, the Mirage volcano explodes forth for crowds of curious Strip onlookers. Every fifteen minutes from 7:00 p.m. to midnight, the earth shakes and flames shoot into the night sky spewing smoke and fire 100 feet above the waters below, transforming a tranquil waterfall into spectacular streams of molten lava.
   


7. Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo
   
   Visitors can take a closer look at the creatures that inspired the bright display of the hotel at there very own wildlife habitat. Surrounded by streams and waterfalls, the animal habitat is home to a flock of pink Chilean Flamingos, black and white swans, ducks, Koi fish, turtles and hundreds of birds fun for kids and "big kids" alike.
   


8. White Tiger Habitat at the Mirage
   
   Siegfried & Roy's famous white tigers are living in style at the Mirage. The realistic habitat offers visitors a peek at these majestic animals. The White Tiger Habitat at the Mirage is an open-air home to Royal White Tigers bred by the famous magicians Siegfried & Roy. The tigers are allowed to roam free within the environment built just for them, with a swimming pool and special walls that they blend in with.
   


9. Circus Circus Shows
   
   Almost twice an hour at the Circus Circus Hotel, there are free yet world class midway acts including jugglers and trapeze acts. A sure hit for any family vacation or relaxing tourist.
   


10. Ethel M’s Chocolate Tour And Botanical Cactus Garden
    
    You have to Check out the Ethel M Chocolate Factory. A must see for chocolate lovers There is a self guided tour, that includes free samples, you can also purchase your favorite chocolates.
    

From the Netscape site.

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Being A Las Vegas Local Has Some Advantages - Station Casinos

I am a Las Vegas local, so of course I like the Station Casinos ( although I realize not all locals do ). I've heard tourists say they would not go to a casino because it is a "local place". If I were a tourist, I would go to the locals casinos precisely because they are frequented by locals. Just like the best restaurants just off the Interstate Highways are frequented by the most truckers, who should know where the best food is for the money. The three closest casinos to my home in Henderson are: The Green Valley Ranch (just down the street), The Sunset Station, and The Fiesta Henderson.

I can't say that my gaming experiences there have always been fortunate, but most often I seem to go back for reasons other than using my Boarding Pass to win the Super Jumbo Jackpot. When you eliminate having to chose a hotel for its accommodations, then all that's left are the three biggies: gaming, food, and entertainment. The last time I went to the Fiesta was to eat at their wonderful reasonably priced (especially with a two for one ticket) buffet. I recently went to Green Valley Ranch to see a movie and walk around The District, always a lot of fun.

Tomorrow night I'll be celebrating the midpoint between my wife's birthday ( July first ) and mine ( August sixth ) by having a nice meal at the Costa Del Sol Restaurant at the Sunset Station followed by the Johnny Rivers concert at the Boulder Station.

See, being a Las Vegas local does not always imply spending hours in front of a video poker machine!

The Newest Station Casino Is Furthest Away

I have yet to visit the Red Rock Hotel Casino, Resort and Spa, but have received offers for mid week room discounts for locals. I will have to check it out ASAP, I've heard only good things about this newest property.

With 30 million pieces of crystal comprising white, blue and deep orange chandeliers furnishing the hotel, Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa is located four miles from Red Rock Canyon in Las Vegas, Nev. Canyon Pointe Shopping Center is one-half mile away. The hotel is 12 miles from the Las Vegas Strip.

Hotel Features. Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa features nine restaurants, including Terra Rossa with Hell's Kitchen winner Heather West as Senior Chef. Terra Rossa serves authentic Italian foods including homemade pastas and thin pizzas from a wood-burning oven. Grand Café, open 24 hours, features burgers, pastries, breads, desserts, and all-day breakfasts. Sandbar, a shoes-optional seasonal poolside café, serves sandwiches, burgers and salads. The hotel contains a business center, 70,000 square feet of meeting space and wireless Internet access for a fee. The 70-acre hotel showcases a 30,000-square-foot, Asian-inspired spa with a full-service salon, fitness area, movement studio, boxing ring, and lap pool with three outdoor cabanas. A three-acre oasis contains gardens, a sandy beach, private cabanas and a pool. The 87,000-square-foot casino features 2,700 slot and video poker machines, 60 table games, a race and sports book, a 15-table poker room and a 600-seat bingo parlor. The hotel contains a 16-screen cinema complex.

Address : 11011 W Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89135, USA

"Free" Buffets At Station Casinos

From Las Vegas Blog

Video About Grand Canyon Skywalk Observation Platform

This is a reasonable drive and daytrip from Las Vegas to the Western rim of the Grand Canyon! ( Now scheduled for public enjoyment March 28, 2007. )

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Related links:


Arizona Republic Article



Excellant Grand Canyon News Blog Post - see Alley Kaye for all your Grand Canyon West travel needs!


Where To Stay?


An Old Blog Of Mine!

Las Vegas Pictures On Yahoo! Travel

Click the link below and use the slidehow option. 100 pictures (or more) of Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Pictures

Laughlin Nevada, The Gambling Mecca South Of Vegas

I promised a while back when talking about day trips from Vegas that I would expand on our gambling oasis to the south, Laughlin, Nevada. It looks like Beth over at The Daily Greensboring has beat me to it! There is much wisdom in humor. But seriously, it's not such a bad place, is it?


(Reposted with permission of the author.)

"I figured I'd write about something different today. Since Saddam is Dead, Bush is powerless, and the Boro is quiet, I thought it would make more sense to tell you about some other place. Today I'm going to tell you about Laughlin, Nevada. Why? Because I can.

If you ever watch the weather during the summer, likely at some point the weather person has turned to the camera and said the hottest place in the US today is Needles, California. Needles California is across the state-line in an area geographically where California, Nevada, & Arizona all meet. I used to live 10 miles from Needles in the Arizona city of Bullhead City.

Bullhead City is an old western town which is named after a huge rock that sits in the Colorado River. It's growth is due to the city of Laughlin, NV which sits directly across the river on the other side.

Most people aren't familiar that besides Las Vegas and Reno, this little town has been famous enough to appear as a joke in the Simpsons, and is comically referred to where stars of old go to perform.

Laughlin consists of about 10 different Vegas style casinos. With higher payouts, and low-cost buffets, the city attempts to draw crowds from the Vegas Mecca. In addition to the Rock-Star has-beens drawing retirees from all over the west coast, the nearby dam and lake provide water recreation for the hundreds of drunk rednecks on boats and water-skis.

What Laughlin lacks in erupting Volcanoes or White tigers that eat their trainers, it makes up with, in it's 3.99 all-you-can eat buffets that include every possible food you can imagine. Laughlin also has shows and entertainment ranging the impersonators of Elvis to the washed up Olivia Newton John. But the money you'll save in Laughlin at room rates often starting under $20.00 will allow for daily expeditions into the Arizona Mohave Desert.

Just a few miles from Laughlin's casino drive is the town of Oatman, Arizona. I've written about Oatman before. It's been virtually untouched since the 1800's and includes gun fights, and shopping "old-west" style.
If that's not your thing, you can take a ride on a full size steam train around the Ramada Express, there, you'll read old Burma-shave signs, and get a tour of the old-west including the casino's very own Tombstone cemetery.

Day-trips in Gold-mining, Off-Roading, or visiting famous desert Hollywood filming locations are all reasonably affordable, although you might just want to play the slots in the air-conditioned casinos.

Now the bad part about Laughlin. Smoke. The place is filled with the stuff. Horny old men. It's filled with these to. Guy's on ventilators and oxygen tanks roaming around the casinos smoking, and drinking stumble upon anything with boobs, and suddenly the vulgarities start. Worst yet is no one under the age of 50 actually goes to Laughlin. Lastly it's hot. Real hot. If you've never felt 125 degree weather, then there is no possible way I could ever explain to you what it feels like. Take a cooler, and make sure you rent a White car. It makes a heck of alot of difference.

Lastly, fill up with gas before you get to laughlin. Even though discounted room rates can often be 10.00 and meals are buy-1-get-1-free, everything outside of the Casinos is mucho expensiveo. Laughlin has one gas station on the strip, often charging twice what normal gas prices are.

At night, a drive out into the desert, or up to the dam, is a romantic get-away on the cheap. Laughlin is a poor persons town. Out of staters often fly in to the Laughlin airport which is capable of handling large wide-body aircrafts the same Vega's Mccarran Airport, but without all the hustle and bustle. Drive up to Vegas, and return to Laughlin by night. It's a discount Vegas without the costs."

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Laughlin Visitor Guide And Message Board - for the local scoop on Laughlin!

Club Passports Available To Las Vegas Travelers

I don't get out much as I used to ( I'm domesticated like an old, fat house cat ), but I was wondering if anybody who likes clubbing in Vegas has taken advantage of these Nightclub Passports as offered by CM Travel Online . Looks intriguing and may be worth the price to avoid those line waits?

"The Vegas Passport is the best way to access all the hottest Vegas nightclubs with no cover charge and no wait in line! Lines in Vegas nightclubs can be as long as 2-3 hours at the best clubs! This is the perfect solution!"

The passport offers the following goodies and restrictions:

Inclusions:

• VIP Line / Cover Included to over 18 clubs


• Drink and Dining Specials


• Promotions and Specials


• Vegas Passport Music CD

Additional Info:

• This tour must be booked at least 24 hours in advance of your travel date


• Confirmation for this product will be received at time of booking


• Passes are valid for the entire calendar year in which they are issued


• Each pass can be used at each club just once. Multiple entries on the same night are available, dependant on the club



• Passes are 100% transferable, so you can give your passes to friends for their next trip to Las Vegas


• Each pass is good for one entry for one person

Discounts and Special Offers:

• Hard Rock Cafe - 15% off food purchase & free shot glass


• Planet Hollywood Caesars Palace - VIP seating / Priority



• Planet Hollywood Caesars Palace - Comp Appetizer


• Caramel at Bellagio Hotel - 2 for 1 Cocktails


• Mist at Treasure Island - 2 for 1 Cocktails


• Beachers Rockhouse - 1 free Draft Beer


• Marrakech - Free Bottle of Wine



• Suite 160 - 20% off Adidas originals


• Rainbow Bar & Grill - 4480 Paradise Rd (Valid Daily) 2 for 1 Entrees


• Hard Rock Cafe - Free Premium Well Drink


• Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co- Palms 20% off first hour



• Jillian's Game Center - $50.00 free game play i e bowling etc


• The Coffee Bean - 2 for 1 Coffee Drink, any size!


• Kahunaville - Treasure Island 2 for 1 Margaritas or Pina Coladas


• The Attic - 25% off Vintage Clothing

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Niteclub Information

Beacher's Rock House

- Daily from 4:00pm

Beacher's Rockhouse bar infuses the spirit of the popular celebrity-drawing nightlife circus "Beacher's Madhouse" into a nightly party at the Imperial Palace hotel-casino. Taking over a spot formerly occupied by Tequila Joe's, Beacher's Rockhouse is touted as having "the atmosphere of a circus and the energy of a nightclub." The bar features some of the staples for which Beacher's productions have become known: hot women, sideshow freaks and of course, little people.

Body English

- Friday to Sunday from 10:30pm

Body English is reminiscent of an English Rock Star's living room. Lavish leathers, rich dark woods and Baccarat crystal chandeliers set an elegant tone. The 7500 square feet nightclub has two self-contained bars on two different levels, an 1800 square foot dance floor and 41 VIP booths.

Music: Hip-Hop, House and Rock

Coyote Ugly

- Daily from 6:00pm

This southern style bar and dance saloon features hot female bartenders who have elevated pouring drinks to an art form. If energy and excitement in its rawest form excites you then this is one place that you should not miss.

Music: Mix of Rock and Hip-Hop from Jukebox. No DJ.

Foundation Room

- Monday, 11:00pm to 5:00am

This establishment may act as a concert hall or restaurants at other times, but on weekend nights, House of Blues turns into the ultimate late night dancing experience with go-go dancers, two large bars and a huge dance floor.

Music: Disco, 70s, 80s and 90s.

Ghostbar

- Daily from 8:00pm


The ride lasts only seconds, but seems like an eternity, the suspense builds and the doors open. What you see is a breathtaking view of the Las Vegas Strip from 55 floors above, a site unfathomable to Ghostbar virgins. As the view draws you in, the music of the live DJ fills the background. From the “ghostdeck”, yet another view takes your breath away, one from a see-thru acrylic floor looking directly at the Skin Pool Lounge below. The room, simple, yet eclectic, allows the beautiful patrons to be the focal point.

Music: Mix of Old School, R&B, Rock, Funk

House of Blues

- Friday and Saturday from 11:00pm

This establishment may act as a concert hall or restaurants at other times, but on weekend nights, House of Blues turns into the ultimate late night dancing experience with go-go dancers, two large bars and a huge dance floor.

Music: Disco, 70s, 80s and 90s.

Ivan Kane's Forty Deuce

- Thursday to Monday from 10:00pm. Wednesday from 2:00am


This back-alley burlesque house has tantalized the Hollywood A-List into a new appreciation for the striptease. With intimate seating and a smoky vibe, Forty Deuce opens to an appreciative audience in Las Vegas. Burlesque shows begin at 11:30 p.m. and continue every 90 minutes throughout the night.

Music: Dance

Krave

- Nightclub: Friday to Saturday 11:00pm to 6:00am

Krave, located in the Dessert Passage shops at the Aladdin, is the only alternative club on the Strip. It has quickly become a late-night hotspot for both gay locals and tourists. It really has three parts - ultra lounge, theatre and dance club. Krave truly offers something for everyone. From the critically acclaimed erotic male revue the Fashionistas, based the popular adult film, to the Funny Business Comedy club, which performs nightly, Krave will keep you coming back for more. It's no wonder it's the most popular, gay club in Vegas.

Music: House, Disco, Electroklash, 80's and Dance

Late Night Empire Ballroom

- Friday to Sunday from 10:00pm

The club entrance delivers guests into a room decorated in rich reds and browns with over stuffed couches. A massive crystal chandler soars above the main room. There are eight private cabanas on the balcony level, along with an exclusive candlelit VIP lounge and a deck with views of the Strip. The Empire Ballroom offers exciting Las Vegas Strip nightlife without having to go inside a casino. A dimly lit entrance leads to a room decorated in rich reads and browns with overstuffed couches and soft candlelight. A massive crystal chandelier soars above the main room, which also features a stage.


Music: Varies

Light

- Thursday to Sunday from 10:30pm

Dance. Party. See and be seen at one of Las Vegas' hottest nightclubs-Light. Energize in this exhilarating, yet elegant hot spot direct from New York City. Light brings an exciting new style of nightlife to Las Vegas with its plush, rich décor and European bottle service. Relax and take in the scene from private table seating surrounding the dance floor, providing you with premier viewing and easy access to the non-stop action. State-of-the-art lighting and sound will set the mood for an electrifying evening.

Music: Mix of Hip-Hop and Techno

Mix

Located atop THE Hotel at Mandalay Bay, Mix offers some of the best views of the Vegas Strip from its floor-to-ceiling windows. The club is decorated in wall-to-wall black leather with red lighting.

Music: Hip-Hop, Dance, Rock

PURE

- Friday to Tuesday from 10:00pm


PURE Nightclub at Caesars Palace sets new standards for Las Vegas nightlife with progressive DJs, awesome views and sexy style. Owned in part by Celine Dion, Shaquille O'Neal, Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, PURE is three venues in one. Strikingly hip, the 36,000 square-foot club features the sensual VIP Red Room, set above a brilliant dance floor and secluded from the main space. Complete with its own bar, glittering chandeliers and dramatically upholstered walls, the Red Room is a perfect setting for those seeking privacy and luxury. From there, you can ascend a twisting staircase or ride the glass elevator to The Terrace - the largest outdoor, year-round nightlife venue in Las Vegas with cascading waterfalls, walls of fire and breathtaking views of the surrounding neon. Starting in March, the famous Pussycat Dolls will bring their world-renowned art of seduction to PURE with the Pussycat Dolls Lounge. Guests will be teased throughout the night by Dolls popping out of champagne glasses, dropping from the ceiling on swings and singing and dancing.

Music: House, Hip-Hop, and Lounge

RAIN

- Thursday from 11:00pm, Friday and Saturday from 10:00pm

Fantasy meets reality at Rain Nightclub, a 28,000 square foot playground created for adults only. Fourteen-foot fireballs light up an elevated dance floor as glistening bodies dance to a beat that is so contagious, the dancing water fountains struggle to keep up. Skyboxes, cabanas and water booths provide a more intimate affair for 8 - 15 guests. Reservations are required and should be made in advance.

Music: Mix of Mainstream, Hip Hop, Old School, R&B, Dance, Rock and House
(No Deep House or Techno)

Studio 54

- Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00pm


Studio 54 is a 22,000-square-foot nightclub with four dance floors and bars, an exclusive area on the second level for invited guests, and several semi-private lounges capable of accommodating up to 400 people. Live dancers, wall walkers, bungee jumpers and acrobats perform astonishing spectacles to the crowd’s delight.

Music: Retro, House, Progressive, and Top 40

TABU

- Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00pm

A seductive glance. A subtle nod. A silent invitation. These are but a few of the sights to be seen as you venture into the world of Tabú - an alluring nightspot dedicated to the notion that anything can happen...and probably will. Here, interactive projections mesmerize with sensual images. Internationally renowned DJs create a cosmopolitan vibe. Stunning model/hostesses tempt with nouveau classic cocktails. Chilled champagne and world-class vodkas beckon from the Alcove. Come, immerse yourself in a sea of sensual sophistication where naughty has never been so nice.

Music: Classic lounge tunes and European-influenced vocal house blends.

Tangerine

- Tuesday to Saturday from 6:00pm

The speakeasy style of 1920s burlesque sweetens this Las Vegas nightspot. Tangerine features an indoor lounge and outdoor deck, plus a DJ spinning rock and dance with live musical interludes by a saxophone, percussion and stand-up bass trio highlighting burlesque performances. With its deck overlooking Sirens’ Cove, Tangerine offers premium views of the steamy Sirens of TI performances and the Las Vegas Strip. Tangerine is all about daiquiris and steel drums during the daytime and then becomes a sexy, dynamic nightclub and lounge at night. Burlesque Performances are at 10:45PM, 11:45PM, 12:45AM and 1:45AM, Tuesday through Saturday. Note: Each performance is approximately 15 minutes long.


Music: Mix of Hip-Hop, House, and Old School Rock

Tryst

- Thursday to Saturday, 10:00pm to 4:00am

Wynn Las Vegas’ newest creation Tryst has taken the Vegas nightlife scene to the next level. We like to call it nightlife with a passion. World renown nightlife aficionado Victor Drai, of Drai’s After Hours Nightclub tops brings the experience in design and structure while resident DJ Justin Hoffman adds to the sensuality, sound and style with his renown musical creations. Speaking of design, Tryst’s sleek waterfall, ultimate dance floor, and VIP tables with first class bottle service are redefining the entire Vegas nightclub scene. Now you know why it attracts the “A” list crowd each and every night. It is truly a work of art.

Music: Hip-hop, top 40, house

VooDoo Risin’

- Daily from 5:00pm

Alive with mystical sights, sounds, and flavors, the VooDoo Lounge will cast you under its spell! Situated high above Las Vegas on the 50th (Cafe) and 51st (Lounge) floors of the Rio's Masquerade Tower, the VooDoo provides a breathtaking view of the city like no other! After dinner, walk upstairs to the 51st floor and enjoy one of the VooDoo Lounge's award-winning cocktails. Flair bartenders concoct specialty drinks like the award-winning "Witch Doctor," a mix of four Rums and tropical fruit juices. Surround yourself in ambiance and take in the extraordinary views of the Las Vegas Strip from their comfortable inside seating or outside on the terrace.

Music: Live Music

Link

Cheap Las Vegas Hotels - What You Really Need To Know

Cheap Las Vegas Hotels - What You-Really-Need-To-Know Guide.
Tavis J. Cooper

Warning! For all those heading to Vegas for the weekend, you can hit straight for the casinos for excitement, or maybe embark on a hot-spot for some much-needed R and R. Indeed, Vegas is surely fun for anyone. It only takes a car with a full tank of gas and an adventurous mindset. Al right, maybe that may sound a little too corny, but for the most part its true. Undoubtedly, the incomparable city of Las Vegas can provide the best of us with a weekend of memorable entertainment and good old-fashioned fun. However the main key is finding the right places to hit ahead of time, and more notably, booking that ideal lodging. Nowadays you can find Las Vegas hotels cheap. For those who dont already know, it's definitely time you hop online.

To find deals on Las Vegas hotels cheap, your best bet would be the internet. Surely, you will find a place to stay that suits your liking. The best thing about Vegas is the options galore. No matter where you want it, right on the strip or perhaps a little out of the way, you will for sure be able to locate Las Vegas hotels cheap in cyberspace. Have you checked out http://Hotels.com yet or simply surfed the net for the best deals on lodging?

I check out these kinds of deals regularly. In fact when my family and I take trips, I like to constantly make sure that I get the best deal out there. For God's sake, this is the age of technology! We should all strive for the best. Hey, dont get me wrong; I want a great, clean place to stay that offers all the amenities, but I don't want to get shafted. I'm sure you would feel the same way.

Of all, the major factor in acquiring Las Vegas hotels cheap and other great lodgings is being early. If you're on top of things, you should definitely be able to locate some fabulous deals and packages. For me, I basically get online and do a search for hotels in the destination area. This is a great way where you can then compare every website's offers. In addition you can avoid getting duped. Whats more when you book ahead of time, you can also beat the rush and save some bucks.

At present, are you searching to find Las Vegas hotels cheap, and at the same time struggling to save some cash? Well then it's time to hop into cyberspace and let your fingers do the walking. Get rid of those cheesy brochures that only provide half the information. You will find Las Vegas hotels cheap if you browse the web. The best part is that it only takes a few key words, a quality search engine like Google, and a few minutes of your time.

About the Author:
Tavis J. Cooper provides readers with up-to-date commentaries, articles, and reviews for travel, recreation as well as other related information.

Submitted at: Content-Articles.com - The Premier WebSite Content and Article Directory

Gambling Oases On The Road To Las Vegas

For those of you who choose to drive to Las Vegas, if you study your road map, you will easily note that there are only a few highways that lead into and out of the city - a fact not missed by either the Nevada Highway Patrol in setting up road checks, or Homeland Security in planning escape routes (God forbid we ever need to activate that plan!).

There are clusters of casinos on these inbound roads that function much differently than the traditional truck stops. They are designed to take your money before you ever get to Vegas! To be much kinder, some of them can also be considered tourist destinations in their own right, providing many amenities and accommodations that Vegas offers, often at an attractive discount.

1)Driving in from the South ( from Los Angeles )on I-15, there are two gambling oases between the California state line and Las Vegas. I actually like Primm and Jean (I thick they are sisters!); they are as good an excuse as any to drive out of Vegas, and they have some nice, reasonable restaurants:

Prim, Nevada - Stateline

Jean, Nevada

2) Driving in from the North ( from Salt Lake City ) on I-15, there is one gambling oasis, Mesquite, about 90 miles from Las Vegas, that has a very effective marketing strategy to attract people fron Las Vegas to their weekend getaways. The Casablanca Resort is a top notch hotel, has a beautiful golf and spa package, and a nice pool and even features headliner shows!

Mesquite, Nevada

3) Coming in from the South on the 95 Highway (Arizona) I would suggest you keep driving through! An exception: there is a good but tiny casino restaurant in Searchlight, Nevada, the birthplace of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, so if you are hungry, stop in and say "hi."

Video about Searchlight, for those who must know!



4) Coming in from West on the back roads of California through Death Valley, about 60 miles from Vegas, you are encouraged to visit the town of Pahrump, Nevada. Once again, there is a variety of restaurant and accommodation options, and the locals are pretty darn friendly! ( Yes, there are brothels there, but that's not the kind of "friendly" I was talking about!) Small town Pahrump is called the New Old West, and the influx of new people moving there is giving them the same growth pains as Vegas, albeit on a much smaller scale.

Pahrump, Nevada

Lucky Seven Vegas Trip Report - Hotel Casino Rating Sites

I could never write a Vegas trip report that would have the same impact as somebody who spends the last few months daydreaming and planning a Vegas vacation, and then flies several hours to get here. Before becoming a "local", I had felt that severe anxiousness and those moments of excitement and longing, looking out of the airplane window at the tiny wonderland of lights below in childlike anticipation. Yes, finally, the plane has touched down in Vegas! You are going to have the best time of your life. You are going to win big at (fill in the blank - Megabucks, a monster hand, a reverse 50K royal flush, a streak at a lucky table, first place at a poker tournament ... ) and make enough to (fill in the blank - pay for the trip, retire , be the next Steve Wynn ... ). You are going to see every show on the strip and eat at every gormet restaurant. You are probably going to feel differently on that flight back home, but that won't stop you from coming back again and again. "Fanatical", but in a good way.

But - I'm always here on the ground. My trip reports would bore anybody to death. Something like: My wife and I got in the car. We drove less than ten miles. We ate at a great 2 for 1 buffet. We played some nickel slots. Well, you get the idea, we are boring!! Forgive me, Father, for I am a "local".

As always I've assembled a list of sites that have at least as part of their nature the uncanny ability to keep you educated, informed, and excited about your next trip to Las Vegas. I've eliminated some of the sites that are too raunchy for this family friendly blog. As always, this list is not in any particular ranking order, and I may have probably missed some gems, so feel free to add your favorites via comments below the post.

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1) Las Vegas Trip Reports & LV Talk Discussion Boards - Hundreds of Las Vegas trip reports. Read the Las Vegas trip reports or add you own. For the Vegas fanatic.


2) Destination 360 - This site is very new so cut it some slack, join the forum, and add your own fantastic reports!


3) Wings For Wheels ( Vegas Category ) - Not primarily a travel reporting blog, but Dave & Kim give excellent accounts of their trips to Las Vegas. ( Dave runs a great podcast, too. )


4) Two Way Hard Three Blog & Podcsat - Excellent trip reporting and casino news! and Rate Vegas - Las Vegas Hotel, Casino and Restaurant Reviews


5) Vegas Tripping - features "honest Las Vegas casino and hotel reviews"


6) Valley 702 Las Vegas Locals ForumSome trip reports can be found in this excellent forum.


7) Vegas Hipster - Las Vegas Hotels, Restaurants, Entertainment, Nightclubs and Travel Guide

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(Most) Honorable mentions:

8) AOL
Travel Mesage Board - Not much here, but might be worth checking back


9) Cheapo Vegas

"Complete, funny and honest reviews of all the hotels and casinos. CheapoVegas and Casino Boy pull no punches so you'll know what to expect before, and once you get to Sin City."

10) Vegas For Visitors - The one-stop resource for all your Las Vegas vacation planning needs.

Site of The Day - Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon Blog

In my previous blog entry Top 10 Las Vegas Day Trips I failed to mention going to the Grand Canyon. This is because I don't have any recent experiences visiting the Grand Canyon, although I had traveled to the Grand Canyon and North Rim a long time ago, before I moved to Las Vegas. As far as day trips from Las Vegas, I recall that the two possibilities are driving to the Western rim ( is that Skywalk completed yet? - not until next year, but definiely worth the wait!) and helicopter tours, but that is where my knowlege ends.

I will have to defer to a real expert in the Grand Canyon. I found a great blog that deals exclusively with the Grand Canyon written by a travel expert and professional. Please visit this Grand Canyon News Blog, and especially note the "Las Vegas" categories. ( Tell Alley that Mike sent you! )

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Related: Grand Canyon Tour

Top 10 Las Vegas Day Trips

Had your fill of the Strip? Looking for a way to clear your head before the tables clear your wallet? The area around Vegas has more to offer than just the green felt jungle - actually it is more like a desert. (By the way, "The Green Felt Jungle" is also the title of a great classic book by Ed Reid.)

The following is a list of places within driving distance of the Strip and downtown that are interesting to visit and will present another view of the Las Vegas area. They are all close enough to have you back in your hotel room the same day, with the possible exception of Laughlin - you may want to plan on booking a room on the Colorado River there. To visit these places, I would get an early start -- first check out the links below and do some more web surfing to get the details before you embark on your great adventure!

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1. Hoover (Boulder) Dam

2. Red Rock Canyon

3. Bonnie Springs Old Nevada

4. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

5. Mount Charleston

6. Valley Of Fire State Park

7. Hot Springs Close To Las Vegas

8. Laughlin, Nevada

9. Extraterrestial Highway - OK, maybe I'm just joking by including this, it's not really a trip as much as a state of mind!! Please don't travel all the way to Rachel, Nevada and get mad at me!!

10. Ghost Towns Near Las Vegas

Related link - thread about haunted Goldfield in Valley 702 - Las Vegas Locals Forum

Top Las Vegas Strip Attractions

These are for the whole family and some are free!

Alladin



• Museum of the American Cocktail



Bally's



• Jubilee! All Access Backstage Walking Tour



Bellagio



• Fountains


• Gallery of Fine Art


• Conservatory


• The Tuscany Kitchen



Caesars Palace



• Forum Shops



Circus Circus



• Adventure Dome
  


• World's Largest Permanent Circus



Excalibur



• Merlin's Magic Motion Machines



Flamingo



• Wildlife Habitat



Imperial Palace



• The Auto Collections



Las Vegas Hilton



• Star Trek: The Experience



Luxor



• IMAX Theatre,"In Search of the Obelisk","King Tut's Tomb", Motion Rides, Pirates 4D and more!



Mandalay Bay



• Shark Reef



MGM Grande

• Lion Habitat



Mirage



• Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat


• Volcano



New York - New York



• The Roller Coaster at New York-New York



Paris



• Eiffel Tower



Rio



• Masquerade Village Sky Show



Sahara



• Speed - The Ride



Stratosphere



• Stratosphere Tower Thrill Rides



Treasure Island



• Sirens of TI



Tropicana



• Bodies...The Exhibition


• 
  Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit



Venetian



• Guggenheim Hermitage Museum



Wynn Las Vegas



• Uncle Steve Says Click Here!

The Need For Speed In Las Vegas

The Need For Speed In Las Vegas

I am too old to enjoy the amusement park rides that seem to be everywhere these days. In my youth, growing up in Southeastern Pennsylvania in the fifties there was Hershey and Dorney parks, which had wooden roller coasters so tame compared to the monster rides today. At this stage of my life, my cardiologist definitely would advise against my starting a roller coaster program as part of my daily exercise routine. But for you younger and more resilient people there are so many opportunities in the Vegas area to test your stomach's ability to keep its contents ... well, you know, in your stomach.

Coming up I-15 from California what young dude with a passion for extreme speed can resist stopping at Primm, Nevada to get a good dose (topping at 95 mph) at the Buffalo Bill's Desperado Roller Coaster with its 225-foot first drop and steep decline. I've watched and listened to this coaster in action and I don't believe anybody can avoid some screaming on that first big drop.

If you survived this challenge, then further thrills await you upon arrival at the strip in Las Vegas. The list includes (in no particular order) The Roller Coaster Ride at New York-New York, The Adventure Dome at Circus - Circus, Speed-The Ride at The Sahara, and whatever wonderful rides they have on the top of the Stratosphere (Stratosphere Tower Thrill Rides) that I'll never even see because of my intense fear of heights. If I've missed a favorite thrill ride of yours ( driving your car on I-215 excluded ) I apologize.

Here is a list I have found from the experts at Las Vegas Smart, who seem to know best - Las Vegas Roller Coasters.

I like to do Vegas mostly at ground level when at all possible, and anything over walking speed can put an undue strain on my heart. I sometimes get an up and down feeling at the crap table, but that's a different story.


MercurialMike