Simplifying Las Vegas

Me? Wrong?

2012-02-11T10:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I've never had a problem admitting when I'm wrong. I'm not too proud to say I'm sorry when I've made a mistake and to ask for forgiveness. And believe me, I've had some doosies. Especially lately. I'm sure I'm not alone in this.

So let me say that I hope that I'm wrong about Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC). I've been railing on them for years. Mostly because I don't like their gaming rules and policies. But they had their IPO this past week, and the stock went for almost $18/share. I'm rooting for them. I hope they raise the cash they need to make their venture very profitable. If this and their other investments pay off, they will have a pretty good claim as the #1 chain on the Strip.

Now on the one hand, that scares me because it might shut out good competition and therefore make gaming worse. But on the other hand, if they do this right, other properties will have to up their games or change the game, which may mean favorable results for players and Vegas travelers in general. In any event, I do hope that in a year from now, I'm writing a post saying that the CEC gamble worked, and I was wrong. Won't be the first time. Probably won't be the last.

Viva,
Mike

Re"new" Your Next Trip to Vegas

2012-02-05T11:40:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
Sometimes you can get into a rut, even when it comes to your vacations. If you wind up staying at the same places, playing the same games, going to the same restaurants, it can get old. The good news is that even if you travel to Las Vegas frequently, you can enjoy new experiences every time you go.

For one thing, there are new venues opening in Vegas all the time, even while construction has stalled on many hotel/condo projects. The current hotels are constantly changing, too. They are always adding new clubs, updating their rooms and the casino floor, and renovating restaurants, shows... well, you get the idea.

Soon, for example, you will see the free Lion Habitat display at the MGM disappear. No, it's not a Criss Angel illusion, it's a way for the MGM to take out something that's been around for a long time and doesn't generate any money and replace it with retail space. Word on the street is it's going to be part of a giant nightclub... In any event, you can always find something new in Las Vegas. Sometimes you have to look harder for it, but usually you just have to keep your eyes open.

And speaking of new things and keeping your eyes open, check out the new photo on my website, an excellent shot of Caesars, Paris and Bellagio with the fountains at rest, taken by Doug Cook.
Viva,
Mike

Super Bowl Should be Super

2012-02-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
Hope you are ready to watch a great game today. The Pats are about -3 at most books in Vegas, although some lines have them at -2.5. Whether you are betting on the game, watching it, or just watching the commercials, I hope you enjoy the festivities of this great tradition. I enjoy my Super Bowls with a few Sam Adams and many heavily salted food snacks. Yum. Now I just hope that tomorrow morning I'm not too tired to go to work!
Viva,
Mike

Tony Hsieh's Vegas Experiment

2012-01-27T15:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I read this article about Tony Hseih and thought I'd share it with you. He's the guy who helped put the zap! in Zappos and sold it for a ton o' money and is now focused on projects in Las Vegas. He's looking to build up the downtown area, which is a nice idea. It could really use some attention.

I think it will be really cool, but I hope it doesn't turn into a generic, plastic cityscape. True, any renovations are better than no renovations. But I really like the way that Fremont East has developed, and I hope that Hseih and his heroes have the same types of ideas. You won't find a TGI Friday's down there, or even a Starbucks. Cool bars and mom-and-pop type places to hang out and have a good time.

The Strip has become pretty corporate - let's face it, there are plenty of upscale shops there that can compete with Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Downtown has always been a kind of "plain folks" atmosphere, and it will appeal to a larger audience if it stays that way.

Just my nickel slot opinion...
Viva,
Mike

Celebrate!

2012-01-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
It's always a good time to go to Vegas, but when you have something cool to celebrate, it's even better. Now first let's start off with a reality check (translation? not so great news here...). If you are going to Las Vegas for your birthday, for example, you're not going to get a lot of love from the casinos these days. Flash you driver's license and maybe they'll give you a free drink or a discount at a restaurant. But in terms of gambling comps, you won't get anything special. If you don't seem to be getting any free stuff, don't give up. The key to scoring discounts in Las Vegas, much like life, is persistence.

Don't keep knocking on the same door, though. Pit bosses and hotel managers get requests all the time, and the truth is they are either going to give you something or they won't budge. What I mean by persistence is keep trying to get stuff at other places. Chances are you'll be hopping from casino to casino, from club to club, from restaurant to restaurant in your celebratory mode, right? So when you hit a new place, show your ID and tell them your story. Make it good. They have heard "it's my birthday, can I get a free drink?" Try adding something unique and original and you'll have a better chance.

Even if you can't something for free, don't let it get you down. Just do what I do. Plan to have the most fantastic time you've ever had. Do the things that you want to do. Take advantage of the fact that it's your special day and milk it. Remember, Vegas is the escape that you deserve after working hard day after day. So when you're there, enjoy it to the fullest.

Viva,
Mike

Consumer Electronics Show Wraps at Convention Center

2012-01-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I'm a bit of a techie... not a really big nut - I save that insanity for my love of Vegas. But I do keep up with the latest trends. And there isn't a bigger show for tech fans than CES every year. One of my favorite items this year is Samsung's OLED TV. It's 55 inches and less than half an inch thick. Wow. If it gets any thinner, you'll have to put it on a couple of slices of bread and call it a sandwich.

I find some of the stats about the show as amazing as the actual products. Here are just a few:

1.86 Million Net Square Feet of Exhibit Space - the largest in its history
Product launches from more than 3,100 exhibitors
More than 20,000 product announcements

I hope this is a positive sign for the electronics industry and for Las Vegas. I mean, those folks at the show will probably spend some time away from the exhibit floor and on the casino floor. I know I would.

Viva,
Mike

Resolutions

2012-01-08T07:36:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
So it is about that time of year. I know, I know, you and I have both made promises and then not kept them. But this year, I'm looking for a fresh start. I mean it this time.

I'm not sharing my personal New Year's resolution, but I do have Vegas resolutions. Here they are:

Enjoy every minute in Las Vegas. Time goes by so fast, especially when you're having fun. I resolve to really savor every moment and let it sink into my soul.
Give Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC) a break. I rail on them pretty hard, mostly because their gambling rules are not favorable compared to other properties. Their hotels are pretty nice, though (well, most of them), and their entertainment is top notch. Two out of three ain't bad.
Take more pictures. Capturing the moment in Vegas is key to a good shot, and there is always something fun going on, so I want to do a better job of finding some fun stuff on film (well, digital film anyway).
Explore more new stuff. I like to try new things while I am in Las Vegas, but I don't do enough of it. There doesn't seem to be enough time, but sleep is for the timid.

Well, that's a short list, but I have a feeling I'm missing some. Maybe you can help me. What are some of your Vegas resolutions?
Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas Hot in 2011-2012

2012-01-02T17:03:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's, Vegas fans!
I hope you had a wonderful New Year's and are ready to face the best year ever! I know I am.

I am a lucky guy. SLV rocked in 2011, selling over 470 copies (over 50 in December!) So far, 2012 looks promising, too, with a handful of sales already. Thanks to you, SLV fans, for your continued support! I look forward to updating the travel guide and my site as Vegas continues to change and grow this year.

Think about booking your next trip to Sin City soon because discount prices will start to disappear. Look for room rates to rise - hotel chains can't afford to offer rock-bottom rates for long periods of time, so the prices will likely climb for a while. The good news is that you can still find an affordable vacation to Vegas in a number of ways, including package deals, discount codes that you can find on the Internet, and comps from your play. The important thing is to... Go to Vegas. It's that simple.
Viva,
Mike

Ready for New Year's, Vegas fans?

2011-12-27T07:49:00.000-08:00

Hi all,
With Christmas in the rear-view window and Santa taking a well-deserved break, it's time to start thinking about the New Year. What's in store for 2012? If you are a Vegas fanatic, you'll notice a lot of activity this year. The trend toward upscale and fancy-pants continues, especially on the Strip, with new nightclubs in the works for many MGM properties, new restaurants (of course) to whet your appetite, and the inevitable switcharoo for entertainment venues.

So far, we know that Barry Manilow is leaving Paris (... and Las Vegas until at least July). Jersey Boys will fill the vacancy at Paris, leaving a hole in Palazzo. Shel Adelson is also losing entertainment at Venetian: Blue Man Group is moving to Monte Carlo.

These are just a few of the changes that occur regularly in Las Vegas. It's hard to keep up with what's going on in Sin City, so stay tuned and I'll keep you posted on all the news. In the mean time, you are probably thinking about that next trip and how you will win enough money in 2012 to finally pay off the Christmas credit cards. Or, maybe you are planning a trip to brave the crowds and stay in Vegas for New Year's Eve (if so, I hope you like sharing your personal space with about a gazillion people... it will be a little cozy and difficult to get around, so be prepared!).

Whatever your plans, I wish you the best for 2012! If you are planning a trip to Vegas, post a reply here and let us know what you are most looking forward to, when you plan on visiting, and anything else you'd like to share with the rest of us Vegas nuts. The more the merrier.

Oh and by the way... for those of you who received Amazon.com gift cards or Barnes & Noble gift cards for the holidays, I hope you consider purchasing my book. It's only $4.99, so you will still have some left over to read all about that girl with the dragon tattoo or another book of your choice.

Viva,
Mike

Happy Holidays from Your Friends at Simplifying Las Vegas!

2011-12-23T18:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
Wow, it's hard to believe it is already Christmas. This year has flown by like my zippy Southwest flight from the East coast to Vegas. I don't really need anything this year, and I feel like spreading the joy, so here's my list:

For the Las Vegas Strip, Downtown and Outskirts: Increased visitation, increased revenue, and continued fun and excitement.
For seasoned gamblers: Big winnings - lots of jackpots, better blackjack on the Strip, continued fun and excitement.
For newbies: Beginner's luck, promises to return to Vegas, continued fun and excitement.
For casino execs: The realization that better gaming means bigger profits, a little retail space goes a long way, continued fun and excitement.
For all my faithful readers: Best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season, good times with family and friends from Newport Beach to Myrtle Beach to South Beach, continued fun and excitement the next time you visit Vegas.

... So Santa pulled the handle on a Wheel of Fortune slot,
he got a free spin and won a lot,
But he gave the money to the cocktail waitress to his right,
and said, "Merry Christmas to all! Can I get a Bud Light?"

Ho, ho, ho and viva,
Mike

The Most Wonderful Time of Year

2011-12-18T09:05:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I hope you all are ready for the holidays this year! The good news is that the holidays come whether we are ready or not. Have you done all of your shopping for your favorite fanatical Vegas friends and family? I have. Yes, I'm done! Well, just about... I still have a few things I need to pick up, but they are easy gifts. For some of my friends, I like to give a nice gift card, be it iTunes, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or a nice restaurant.

If you are concerned that gift cards are not as romantic or caring as another gift, they can be a great complement to something else. Also, they are eco-friendly. And finally, they can be a way for the people receiving them to pick out whatever they want. Remember when Aunt Clara gave you tube socks and (hopefully new) underwear last year? Wouldn't it have been cooler if she got you a gift card to amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com instead so that you could have purchased your own tube socks and (hopefully new) underwear? I think so.

If you want something a little more personal but are running out of time to get to the stores or to have something shipped for an astronomical price to arrive on time, think about this: you can purchase a book and send it as a gift electronically. I think the recipients will find any e-book a really fun and unique gift. Plus, you save on some of that fancy wrapping paper.

Both amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com have electronic book delivery that you can give as gifts. Even if your friends and family don't have electronic book readers, they can still read books on a smart phone, tablet or any computer by downloading the free apps for Kindle or Nook. If you have a Vegas nut on your list who has been extra good (or extra naughty if you are into that kind of thing... I am), then I hope you consider giving my book through the Amazon or Barnes and Noble programs as a gift. At $4.99, it's a steal.

I will be back soon to wish you Happy Holidays in another blog soon. For now, I wish you much luck in your mad dash to finish your shopping. In case you are wondering what to get me, I would like all-expenses paid stay at the Wynn in the penthouse suite. I don't think that's asking for too much.

Viva,
Mike

A Few of My Favorite Things

2011-12-10T08:30:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas Fans,
During the holidays, I am reminded of My Favorite Things - not so much the song from The Sound of Music, but more from jazz legend John Coltrane's sweet tenor sax in the album of the same name, released in 1961. My Favorite Things is one of my favorite things... hang with me, I'm going somewhere with this.

I always like to look back and reflect on the year and share some of my thoughts as well as look ahead to the coming year. For a lot of reasons, this has been a challenging year for me. It has made my trips to Las Vegas that much more meaningful. I feel so fortunate that I get to escape reality, which tends to smack me in the face from time to time, and visit the un-real world of the Strip, downtown, and outskirts of the most exciting city in the world.

Here is a short list of my favorite Vegas things from 2011, in no particular order:

Playing $5 blackjack and craps and enjoying a few rum and cokes, especially at the Stratosphere. It's all about the atmosphere, and the Strat has a lot of creative characters roaming the floor. Good times.
Hanging with my best friend and fellow degenerate gambler, Steve. We have been going to Vegas for over 20 years, and we typically enjoy the same goofy stuff and craziness of the wonderful world of Sin City.
Betting on my sports team and yelling at TVs as if they can hear me. It is amazing to me that the quarterback doesn't throw the ball to avoid the sack no matter how loudly I try to persuade him.
Walking the Strip at sunrise. I am one of those annoying morning people who likes to get up as dawn cracks and head to Starbucks or the Peppermill for a nice breakfast. There are two kinds of people you encounter at this hour: runners and crazy vagrants. It's a good mix.
Eating at Battista's Hole in the Wall. Yeah, I get arguments against this one from time to time. Foodies like to turn their noses up at this place. But for me, it's more about the tradition and atmosphere. I always enjoy the wine with my dinner, and I love when Gordie the accordion player stops by my table to play a tune. In a city where history is reduced to rubble with a flip of a switch, I'm hoping that this place doesn't change for a while.
Visiting Red Rock Canyon. Check out my pics on Flickr. It was a really beautiful day.
Enjoying Bellagio's Fine Art Gallery. The last one of its kind on the Strip. I'm no art expert, but I know what I like. They consistently show the best masterpieces by classic artists - from Picasso to Lichtenstein to everyone in between.
Finishing Simplifying Las Vegas 2012. Just in the St. Nick of time.

I could go on and on here, but you get the idea. Whether you like to people watch, eat good food, gamble, party or sit by the pool and catch some rays, Las Vegas is a great getaway. I look forward to my next trip. I'm already planning it.

When I count my good fortunes, and yes I do have a lot of them even when times are more difficult, I often include how grateful I am that I get to go to Vegas and enjoy some of my favorite things.

Please feel free to post some of your favorite Vegas things... you can post anonymously if your boss or spouse also follows this blog.
Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas 2012 is here!!

2011-12-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,
You may have noticed that I have not been blogging posting to my forums lately. Or on Facebook. Or Twitter.... well, you get the idea. I've been working really hard on SLV 2012. And as you may have guessed from the title of this post, it's finally done!

Please check out my website to see all the different ways you can purchase SLV 2012. The Nook version is in progress - Barnes and Noble is taking its sweet time finalizing my html code - but it should be done within a day or two and I will put the links on my site.

I may be biased, but I think this is a really great version of the guide, and I am really looking forward to building on it in 2012. I hope you enjoy it, too! Please feel free to post your thoughts here or on my forums. As always, thanks for your support!

Viva,
Mike

Happy Thanksgiving, Vegas Fans!

2011-11-24T13:35:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again. I know when you are in Vegas, you are thankful for winning a double-down at the blackjack table, hitting your point at craps, getting a royal in video poker, or hitting a jackpot on the slots. And I'm sure you are also thankful for friends and family and all of the good stuff in life.

I am too. And although this has been a challenging year for me in many ways, I'm still thankful. In addition to the stuff I mention above, I'm thankful that Simplifying Las Vegas has been successful this year, and I'm very appreciative of the people who have visited my site, sent me comments, joined me on Facebook and Twitter, and purchased my travel guide.

Finally, I am thankful that my Simplifying Las Vegas 2012 travel guide is almost done! I can't wait to publish it. It's got some new stuff in it, more tips, and cleaner formatting. Best of all, it will be easy to read on your tablet, smart phone, Kindle or Nook. It should be ready in about a week (maybe less if I skip the pumpkin pie tonight and get some more work done before the tryptophan kicks in).

Here's hoping you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Viva,
Mike

What's to become of the Trop?

2011-10-31T16:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I am concerned. I have high hopes for the Tropicana. There were promises made. There were grand plans. But it seems to be on a path of uncertainty. After several new beginnings, including Nikki Beach and the Mob Experience, the projects have stalled and there's trouble in Trop town.

They can still turn it around. Even if the current theme isn't working yet, they don't have to bail and implode. But there is still a lot of work to do. They have to decide if the Miami/Havana theme is going to work, or if they need to play that down a bit. If they abandon it, what is the next step? How do they attract top talent and the clientele they need to pay the bills?

Part of the problem is that they are not part of a chain hotel, so they can't bank on help from another property. But they can make it. It will take a little luck, but at least they are in the right city.

Viva,
Mike

400 and Counting

2011-10-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

A quick note just to say thanks very much for your support! Simplifying Las Vegas 2011 has sold over 400 copies this year. I'm still working on SLV 2012... it is really coming along and I'm very excited about getting it published. I'm targeting a November 1 date, but it depends on how well the html conversion goes. That is always the time-consuming part! It has a good deal of new stuff in it and I hope you will enjoy it.

I will make it available for Kindle, Nook, and in PDF format. Of course, if you have a tablet or a smart phone, you can download the Kindle or Nook app for free and then view my book on your mobile device.

In the mean time, please visit my site and let me know if you have Vegas-related comments or questions. I gotta go... gotta get back to writing. But look for a new Vegas Halloween post soon.
Viva,
Mike

How Many Observation Wheels Does Las Vegas Need?

2011-10-11T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

A recent Las Vegas Advisor Question of the Day has me thinking... "How many observation wheels does Las Vegas need?" My answer is "none" but obviously there's something wrong with me. I am not a developer. There are currently two pending observation wheel projects under consideration on the Las Vegas Strip. The Skyvue wheel proposal is located next to Mandalay Bay. Ok - so this one does kind of make sense. You can see a long way down the Strip from here, and there is plenty of open space. If I had to vote for a wheel, I'd vote for this one.

The other is part of Caesars' misadventure into retail-dom with its infamous Linq project, due to be completed in 2013. I'd love to be a fly on the wall in this conversation: "We're going to take the most valuable gaming property in the U.S. and build (get ready) a giant retail space! I know what you're thinking - Las Vegas already has a ton of upscale shops, bars and restaurants. And some amusement rides. And lots of other entertainment outside of the casino. And although gaming is available in other states, there's really nothing like it anywhere but Las Vegas, but instead of improving our casinos or building new ones, we're going to add dining and retail space. And a ginormous wheel. Great idea, eh? Eh?"

No. Not a great idea. Their argument is that Las Vegas has tons of gaming and that it doesn't need another casino. Well, it doesn't need a lousy casino with unimaginative space, lousy odds, few games, and surly dealers. It needs more good gaming.

Right now, good gaming is limited to the very northern and southern ends of the Strip, downtown and the outskirts. The heart of the Strip is sadly missing that element. It is not uncommon, for example, to see a $10 blackjack table with a 6 deck shoe with a 6-5 payout at Harrah's. Horrible. Why would I go there when I can get a spot at a $5 blackjack table with 3-2 payout at the Strat, downtown, Circus Circus, or Excalibur? I wouldn't.

Visitation in Las Vegas continues to rise, but people are not spending as much as they would during a better economy. The powers that be have decided that people would rather shop, eat, drink, and ride around on a giant wheel.

Here's an idea: why not make gaming more attractive? Better video poker. Better slots. 3-2 blackjack in 6 deck shoes. Craps tables with 3x odds. Casinos are still going to make money, and in fact they might make more with a surge in people who are hungry for decent gaming. Come on, casino execs. This should be easy.

Las Vegas went away from its core during the whole "family theme" once in the 1990s. Up went the amusement parks (MGM Grand), water slides, themed resorts, mega pools, and games for kids. They soon realized that children under 21 cannot pull the handles on the one-armed bandits. So down went many amusement parks, water slides, etc., and the pools are now party zones for the (barely) over 21 crowd to draw them to... the casino! Las Vegas revamped itself back to Sin City (see Sirens of TI) and the only reason the pyramids and castles still stand is because they have (get ready) casinos! That's right, gambling.

Stay close to your core, my friends. While variety is good and necessary, there are already plenty of options for shows, bars, shopping and restaurants in Las Vegas to keep everyone busy. What makes Las Vegas unique is gaming - and the abundance of it. Make it great again and people will gladly spend their entertainment dollars right there in the belly of the cash cow.

Viva,
Mike

Same As It Ever Was

2011-10-05T20:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I'm feeling quite nostalgic lately. It kind of came to a head tonight when I heard about the passing of Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple and visionary, after a long bout with cancer. A lot of what I do is possible because of the iPad, iPhone and other Apple innovations, thanks in large part to Jobs. I am already missing his next big idea; I am already missing his vision for what is possible.

Apple will continue to invent, improve, and move forward with design. It is a great company, and they have a solid foundation. There are those that will say it will never be the same without Jobs. They may be right, but Apple will still be Apple.

It's kind of the same with Vegas. This may seem like a leap, but hang with me here. The new casinos are hip and cool, but many say that they miss old school Vegas. Classic Vegas. The Stardust, Desert Inn and the Sands. The Rat Pack, Elvis, and Folies Bergere. Cheap buffets and 25 cent roulette. You get the idea.

Vegas does not let history get in the way. It implodes it. But there are still hints of the old Vegas in plenty of places. Just this past weekend I stayed at the Riviera. They have been promoting all of these cool changes and upgrades.

Honestly, it didn't seem all that different to me. The room was nicer than the previous one I had, but the casino and restaurants seemed the same, and the sports book (now called Lucky's) is a little smaller and less comfy than the old one (Crazy Leroy's... which was also a better name).

Pictures of classic movie stars and moguls lined the hallway on the way to the elevators. The Riviera has not forgotten its past. Or imploded it. It is just attempting to upgrade it a little bit without making some kind of grand statement. Honestly, I'm ok with all of this. There's something comforting in staying in a place that is familiar. I think that's a good thing.

I still see signs of the old Vegas all over the Strip and downtown. It's mixed in with the new. You have to look, and you have to know what you are looking for, but it is there. It's there in the old Landmark sign that still lights up - on Paradise Road just past the Riv - although the Landmark was leveled years ago. It's there in the older dealers who love to tell stories about how it used to be. It's there in the Golden Gate and El Cortez downtown. It's there, trust me.

But here's the funny thing. It's even there in the newer casinos. It's there because as we continue to visit Las Vegas and have fun, we gather our memories and share our photos and tell our tall tales. I have plenty. And for me there are just as many in the Stardust and Aladdin as there are in Bellagio, Stratosphere, TI and Fremont Street. What I think I am nostalgic for is not so much a building, a game, a restaurant - although those are all things I miss - but more so a feeling I get when I think about them and the people with whom I shared all these great things. Sure, you can call me sentimental.

What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but it stays with you, your friends and family for a long, long time.

Viva Las Vegas,
Mike

Kindle Fire

2011-10-01T07:51:00.000-07:00

For those of you who enjoy Vegas on the go, there is a new electronic reader on the market. Amazon has introduced Fire (what is it with these folks and lighting things aflame?) to their line of Kindles. It is kind of like a Nook color and kind of like a tablet, too, with advanced web-browsing technology.

The market for all of these devices is getting pretty crowded, and it will be interesting to see if one comes out on top as the leader. I think the important thing is that whatever device you use, for whatever purpose (reading, browsing, gaming, etc.) that developers have to make their applications work well on multiple platforms.

That is why I am working so hard on SLV 2012. It will be available on all devices because I write it in HTML and I also have it available as a PDF. I can't wait to publish it!

Viva,
Mike

Vegas Strip Makes Most-Visited List

2011-09-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

Travel and Leisure ranks the Las Vegas Strip as the number four most-visited travel destination, with close to 30 million visitors annually. The top three destinations are Times Square, Central Park, and Union Station in our nation's capital. Some of the other top ten destinations below the Strip on the list include Magic Kingdom, Disneyland, and Grand Central Station.

Nice... reinforces my theme: Go to Vegas. It's that Simple.
Viva,
Mike

Coming Soon: Simplifying Las Vegas 2012

2011-09-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas Fans,

I'm hard at work these days, so if you don't see a ton of blog posts it's not because I'm avoiding you. It's because I'm hard at work updating my website/book. It's a lot of fun, but it's also very labor-intensive. I want to give you the most up-to-date information I can in an easy-to-read electronic format that you can surf on a number of electronic devices - Kindle, Nook, iPad, iPhone, laptop, desktop, Fisher Price My First Computer... well, you get the picture.

My target date is October 15th for the new 2012 version of the book. Now, I'm saying that, but it's a bit ambitious. There's a lot that has to happen between now and then. But if I don't put a date out there, I won't have something to shoot for, so I might as well.

In the mean time, if there's anything you would like to see in a 2012 Las Vegas travel guide, shoot me an email or post a comment here (btw... posting a comment is a lot easier now - you don't need to log in via Google or any other account.)

So... enough blogging for now. I gotta get back to work.
Viva,
Mike

True Tales of Craps and Blackjack

2011-09-08T04:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

A question on my forums yesterday made me start thinking about the funniest and weirdest things that I have seen at the tables over the years. Most of the time it's just a few folks joking around, having a good time, trying not to lose money. But here are some of the highlights of my gambling history, in no particular order:

First time playing craps - Caesars Palace, 1992. Back then, you could get a spot at a $2 craps table with no problem. Heck, back then Caesars had a ton of tables and the casino was always hopping. Anyway... I'm at a lively table with my faithful compadre Steve, and the shooters are really hot. Two gents at the opposite end of the table are experienced craps players and are making a lot of money.

The dice come to me. I roll a number and then crap out after a few rolls. Just enough so that players lose their pass line bets and come bets. Oops. The dice go to the next player, and the game gets hot again. Finally they come back to me. I roll a number and then... you guessed it, crap out after a few more rolls. One of the fellows at the other end of the table looks at me and says, "have you thought about not rolling the dice?" Sound advice. I didn't tell them that my middle name is Seven

Blackjack - Caesars palace, also 1992. Steve is at a table with a really, really intoxicated fellow (not me... not this time), who is complaining to Steve about the dealers, pit boss and so on. Finally, it comes time for him to cut the cards. The gent takes the yellow card and, instead of sliding it between the decks of cards like a normal, sober person, attempts to literally cut the cards by slicing at them. Doesn't work that way. Stay sober, my friend.

Blackjack - Stratosphere, 2009. Two very Australian dudes playing at a table with me and Steve, slowly getting tight. Good fellas, for the most part, although they were annoying the dealer and were one smart-ass comment away from getting into some trouble. A cigar girl came by, and one of the gents decides to buy one. He lights up just as the pit boss walks up to the table, just by chance, to check things out. Pit boss smiles for a few seconds, trying not to laugh. The Aussie is about to puff when the pit boss says, "You know you lit the wrong end, don't you?" Good stuff.

Blackjack - Stratosphere, 2009. Steve and I are at a fairly full table with a bunch of good folks. One guy in particular is nice enough but making really wacky bets. Of course, he's losing and blaming the cards. So his frustration builds and at one point he decides to double-down on a hard sixteen versus a dealer ten. Now, if you don't know anything about blackjack, all I can say is this is about the worst play you can make. His odds of winning the hand have to be in the gazillions. His odds of not busting with a hard sixteen are pretty slim as it is. So, what does he get for his card? Of course, a 5! He wins the hand. Sometimes, ignorance is bliss.

Blackjack and Craps, Bill's Gamblin' Hall, 2010. My 40th birthday Vegas all-out, good-time bash. Steve and I had just arrived in Vegas and had bet on some NCAA basketball games. We already had a drinking contest in the sports book (I lost... but just barely), and while we waited to eventually lose our bets on hoops, we decided to play some craps. Now at the tables I like to drink rum and cokes. You know, to look sophisticated while I root for my point ("Come on sixthhhh.... daddy needth a new pair of shoethhh!").

We had a full table and it was rocking. One shooter in particular had a pretty good run. The drunk dude to the left of me (not Steve... he was the drunk dude on my right) was really, really funny. Well, at the time we both thought we were going to headline at Caesars. So the point was nine, and we were alternating cheers for the shooter. He'd yell "sixty-three" and then I'd chant "fifty-four." Then the whole table got into it. It was like we were at a college football game. "Sixty-three..." "fifty-four..." "sixty-three..." "fifty-four!" The shooter eventually hit the nine and we picked up our winnings.

Then, Steve and I decided to head to the blackjack table. For some reason, we thought 6-5 single deck was a good idea. Not my favorite game, but the evil Caesars property didn't leave us much choice for blackjack. I recall very little, other than every time I went to double-down, the dealer chastised me for reaching over my chips to put my cards under them. Or something like that. I remember thinking that I was one of those guys I didn't like much at the table, a little sloppy and holding up progress. Oh well, it was my birfday after all, and how many times do you turn 40? By the end of the night, I had to call my wife to remind me which room we were in. The next day was brutal.

Well, those are some of my highlights. What are yours???

Viva,

Mike

Football Season - Prime Time for Vegas Sports Books

2011-08-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
Football season is right around the corner. Now that the pro football lockout dust has settled and the college football teams have gone through a few scandals, it's time to place some bets on the actual games.

Sports books come in all shapes and sizes. Generally, the nicer casinos have big books with a bunch of large screen TVs, fancy seating, digital boards with every conceivable game, and lots of food and drink available in a nearby deli. I love the comfy seating and the upscale atmosphere of the bigger books.

But don't rule out smaller books. Sometimes they have better odds, and they also have more colorful characters, who are fun to watch. Also, you'll usually find more promotions - like a huge payout on parlays - to try to draw you in.

Wherever you decide to go, expect big crowds on game day. Get there early to get a seat, and go with a friend who will hold it for you while you take a bathroom break from the beers you're drinking while watching the games (don't forget to tip the cocktail waitresses!).

Here are some of my favorite Vegas books and a few contests to get your football motor running:

Although the Las Vegas Hilton is going through some tough times financially, they still have the best book in Vegas. Tons of seats, lots of big screens, and even a small non-smoking section.
If you like upscale, try the Bellagio or Lagasse's Stadium at Palazzo.
Station Casinos, which include the Fiestas, Green Valley Ranch, and El Cortez, are promoting a $2 million giveaway contest.
The book at the Stratosphere is pretty small, but it's also colorful. During football season, they also open up one of their banquet rooms and have a big party with food, booze, and even a few blackjack tables that you can visit when your team is losing by 35 points. Good times.
Boyd properties - which include Main Street Station, Orleans, Gold Coast, Suncoast, Sam's Town, California and Fremont - have a Pick the Pros contest with over $500k in prizes.

Good luck and enjoy!
Viva,
Mike

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - Vegas Style

2011-08-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
It's time for another installment of everyone's favorite topics in Las Vegas.

The Good:
There's plenty of good stuff going on in Vegas, and it looks like some key numbers are starting to get better, too. According to the Las Vegas Advisor, visitation was up 7 percent in June, which makes 16 straight months of increased visitors. In addition, Strip revenues were up 32 percent in June. Good news for the casinos, especially the megas (Caesars Entertainment and Mirage Resorts International). Not so great news for the players losing that money, but overall this is a good sign for the city.

The Bad:
It looks like Elvis will be leaving the building at Aria. The Cirque show will be closing, according to the Las Vegas Advisor, after less-than-stellar reviews. It's unusual for a Cirque show to shut its doors when it has run less than 2 years. Are there just too many of them?

In other bad news from the LVA, the Hilton is defaulting on its debt. This off-Strip property has been trying to rebrand itself for a while, but it just has not had much luck. This is too bad, really. They have a great Sports Book, which includes a rare non-smoking room. Here's hoping they'll turn it around.

The Ugly:
I'm not big on reality shows, and if you need to know why, look no further than this last item from the LVA. A Los Angeles-based production company "is now looking for six housewives for a new reality show set in a Las Vegas trailer park. Would-be stars of the show are asked to submit a 5-minute video about themselves and their significant others by October 1." Sure sign of the Apocalypse. Can we please get back to more shows like the Travel Channel's "Best of Vegas" type series and get rid of these reality shows? Please?

Viva,
Mike

Is Downtown the New Strip?

2011-08-08T17:48:00.001-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
For a few years I've been saying... well, to anyone who will listen to me... downtown Las Vegas has great potential. The Strip continues to build big and bold - see CityCenter and Cosmo for recent examples - and while these properties are beautiful, they are upscale and expensive.

Don't get me wrong, I love the Strip. I spend a lot of time on the Strip. But for the average Joe and Jane, downtown is a very attractive alternative. Years ago, I would not have recommended staying or playing downtown. Not even to people I didn't like. It was a little run down, a little dangerous, a little crummy. But they have really turned it around.

And I'm not just talking about the thriving Fremont East district, with it's boutique bars and restaurants. I'm talking about the actual hotels and casinos, too. There are plenty of examples, and I'd just like to highlight a few:

The Plaza
The Plaza is undergoing a renovation and will officially reopen September 1st. Now here's a place that was, honestly, pretty dank and dull the last time I visited it. Remember the casino that Clark Griswold and Cousin Eddie went to in Vegas Vacation? You know, games like "What Number Am I Thinking" and Rock Paper Scissors" and a buffet with choices of "blue" or "yellow."

But that was right before they closed, and I'm really looking forward to the reopening. New rooms, new restaurants a new theater - all look wonderful. The Plaza's website shows a new logo with the phrase "a modern classic." Perfect. This joint is at the heart of Las Vegas' humble beginnings, the railroad station that brought people to the city at the turn of the 20th century. So combining that with an updated hotel at a reasonable price is a very exciting idea to me. I wish them much success!

Gold Spike
Gold Spike also recently underwent major renovations. Word on the street was that the Spike might not survive. Surprise. It's a little out of the way, but still a great hotel and a great value.

Golden Gate
Here's something from the Golden Gate's website:

You can’t do this on the Strip: Party inside with Dancing Dealers and take a few easy steps outside onto Las Vegas’ most dynamic street. Look ten stories up at fantastic light shows on the world’s biggest video monster (yes, it’s gigantic). The Fremont Street Experience is four neon blocks of party action with 3 stages, dancing DJ’s, tribute bands, a zip-line overhead and bars everywhere. And it’s free. Really... Forget the Strip mega-hassle. Spend less time walking and more time dancing in the street!

All of these properties are targeting a young, hip audience. While the Strip is building extravagant hotels that mostly older, richer folks can afford, downtown just might be the place to go for the average Jane and average Joe.

Viva,
Mike

Of Hooters and Quickie Weddings

2011-08-03T17:13:00.000-07:00

Ok Vegas fans,
These two topics are not linked, so get your minds out of the gutter. I just happened to notice stories about both on the same day. Let's take a look at each one:

Hooters files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. I think we all saw this coming. Here's why. Hooters in many cities is an edgy, forbidden fruit type of deal. In Vegas, it's mild -at best. On my last trip to Vegas, my buddy and I visited it to see if they had good blackjack/craps rules. They did not. We thought that the Hooters brand might attempt to draw customers in with fun, sexy dealers, bikini bull riding, or something else of value. They did not. The whole joint kind of reeked of mediocrity and boredom. Not what you want in a Vegas casino.

Las Vegas wedding chapels see a huge decline in business. People just ain't gettin' hitched in Vegas like they used to. The destination wedding is a little extravagant. But I say it's worth it. Where else can you have Elvis perform at your ceremony? Or, if you're in a hurry, just stay in your car and pull up to the next window. Easier than fast food.

Viva,
Mike

Flamingo Website

2011-07-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

As you know, I tend to rail on Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC) for a few main reasons. First, their table games typically have horrible rules, especially for us average Joes. Second, they try to build consistency and brand recognition but in doing so have taken unique properties and turned them into blah. Finally, navigating (and even looking at) CEC websites is a painful experience.

For a major corporation who has a stake in all things Vegas, they sure don't make their sites very appealing. Remember your dad's old paisley ties that were wide enough to be bibs? Remember how you wanted to hurl when he kept wearing those well into this decade? That's how I typically respond to CEC websites.

However, I like to be a positive person. I like to give credit where credit is due. I like to avoid hurling. So here it goes.

The Flamingo website contains a cool video on the home page that makes me think maybe, just maybe CEC is starting to turn it around. Now, granted, it's a modest little video that only lasts about 30 seconds, so it's not like it's going to win a Webbie or anything. But it's good. Be sure to watch it (at 30 seconds, you can't go wrong), but here's a synopsis:

It begins with an old station wagon, complete with a radio (not a stereo with a CD player or Auxiliary jack for your MP3 player, just a radio that you tune to stations) and an old analog clock. It drives into the desert, and then you see the sparkle of a pool. The familiar Flamingo sign is out of focus, but you can see the classic Vegas neon lights, and you know we're getting closer. Then, some beautiful women. Of course. A woman puts on her lipstick, then there's scenes of them by the pool. The Flamingo sign comes into focus. Then, fellas in sunglasses are enjoying a drink. Everyone looks happy. Then the station wagon drives off into the sunset.

What's so great about this? Here's what I like about it:

It's perfect for the web. They pack a ton of good stuff in half a minute. Lots of good images, cool music, and few spoken words. Even with the sound down, this is a fun video to watch.

It blends the modern and the classic. It's in black-and-white, but yet you get a sense of modernism through the pool and the young folks enjoying drinks.

It has character. This is what I'm craving from CEC. Nowhere in the video does the narrator say "Flamingo" or "Caesars" but you know when he's talking about "a place" he means that the Flamingo has always been a Vegas staple. That's their niche - Ben Siegel and pink flamingos. 1946 and a cool pool. Showgirls and art deco. Now blend that with modern Las Vegas and you have something.

And that's the feeling I get from the video, in a nutshell. The guys driving the station wagon aren't just going to meet some gals. They are going to meet some gals in Vegas, and they're going to have fun at a classic stop on the Strip. Bingo.

Now, if they would only change their blackjack tables to pay 3:2 instead of 6:5 in the 6 deck shoes, I might just play there....
Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas Website... it's gettin' there!

2011-07-24T18:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
I've been chipping away at the website. You'll notice new stuff on the Home page, and the tables are slowly but surely coming along. Updating the tables takes a lot of time. I always learn so much by visiting the properties' websites and doing research on other Vegas sites. Sometimes I spend more time on a single property than I expect.

Take Encore, for example. That's a tough one. Encore is of course linked to Wynn, so when I go to the website to see what new restaurants, shows, etc. I can find, I wind up spending time trying to figure out what belongs to Wynn and what belongs to Encore. Essentially, these two properties are linked. But I like my website visitors to get a good sense of what the difference is between these properties, even if the differences are subtle. If you're searching Simplifying Las Vegas on you smart phone or tablet, you don't care if Encore and Wynn are sister properties... you want to know where XS is so you can dance your booty off until dawn. So when you search and see it's in Encore and not Wynn, you're saving yourself some time searching for it.

That's what I'm aiming to do with both my book and website. Make your life easier to find the stuff you want. That and give away fun stuff. Heck, I've given away a bunch of luggage tags since 2008, and I plan to keep giving them away. I want you to have a luggage tag on your bag, so please fill out my three-question trivia contest for your chance to win. I give one away every month. Same with the t-shirts. Don't miss out on your chance to win! No strings attached, no purchase necessary, no shoes no shirt no problem! This is Vegas, after all.

Please keep visiting the site and commenting on the blog, the forums (VegasTalk) and more. Always feel free to shoot me an e-mail with questions or comments. I love hearing from you, Vegas nuts!

Keep on the lookout for Simplifying Las Vegas 2012, coming soon...
Viva,
Mike

Casino Games and Las Vegas Odds

2011-07-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Do you like math? Me neither. I'm not fast enough to count cards at blackjack. But, I know enough to play the good games and stay away from the bad ones.

There are plenty of sites and books that will give you the odds for the various games you can play in Vegas. The odds will vary slightly depending on the casino's rules. However, the breakdown is pretty similar - video poker and blackjack are the best player advantage games, assuming you find the tables/machines with the best rules and play perfectly every hand. Baccarat and craps are also good games. Slots, big wheels, keno and double-zero roulette tend to have the worst odds in the casino.

A lot of people think that the games with the better odds are harder to win or harder to play. Not true - it just takes a little practice. Take craps - the table is big and the felt has a bunch of stuff on it. But if you want to make your life easier (and make the plays with the best odds), just stick to the basic bets: pass line (backed up with odds - the only true fair shake you'll get in the casino) and come bets (backed up with odds). After you try it a few times, or watch other players do it, you'll see how easy it is.

Also, give yourself a break and don't feel guilty if you use a little of your money for the games with not-so-great odds every once in a while. The last time I was in Vegas, I was losing pretty steadily at blackjack. One night I decided to just throw $20 into a Wheel of Fortune, and for some reason I won $40.

You never know... but, you'll win more (and keep your losses to a minimum) if you stick to the games with the best odds.

Viva,

Mike

Staying at Aria Could be "Scary-a"

2011-07-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

In case you didn't hear, MGM and CityCenter have had a rough week. Think you're job's tough? Try this:

1. Eve the Nightclub closed temporarily at Crystals due to financial troubles. This is Eva Longoria's joint, and I think she has a few spare dimes, so don't feel too bad.

2. The unfinished Harmon hotel was deemed unsafe. Ok, so they can build the Veer towers, that lean at unimaginable angles, with no problem. But the Harmon? I think they used silly putty instead of cement or something.

3. The coup de grace, the kicker, was the discovery of an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease at Aria.

I still like MGM and their properties. Much better than Harrah's. Chalk this one up to a bad week. If you have stock in MGM, hold on to it. Just know that it's going to lose a few points this week.

Viva,
Mike

Hey! What Happened to the Visit Las Vegas Web Site?

2011-07-06T18:39:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I'm a big fan of updating web sites - making improvements, adding new stuff, creating new content, and so on. But, you have to make sure the changes are in the right direction. The new Visit Las Vegas site is different, and there are some things I like about it, but I'm not sure it's better than their previous site. Hmm.... As I'm thinking about it, here's a pros and cons list:

Pros

Streamlined navigation - it is easier to find what you are looking for with the new drop-down lists

Cool images - nice, big pictures that promote fun

More content - because they have made their navigation simpler, you can find more information faster

Cons

Generic look - although the images are nifty, it looks a little like most other websites you've seen

Maps - they used to have the best Vegas maps on this site, but they've moved them to their sister site, lvca.com. The maps on Visit Las Vegas are more generic.

Missing persona - you used to be able to create your own persona on the site, complete with a Visit Las Vegas-generated nickname. Mine was something like "wild biscuit." But that has gone away, and now my biscuit is dry.

Itinerary builder - I'm not a big fan of they way they do this. You visit the site, picking out the things that you like, then add them to your itinerary. On my site, I give you a different approach, and of course it is also free. If you want a customized itinerary, you can get one when you purchase my book.

Well, overall the Visit Las Vegas site is not bad, just a little less fun and goofy than the previous one. I suggest visiting lvca.com for a fun, interactive Las Vegas web site where you can find lots of information and use the best online Vegas maps of any site I've seen.Viva,Mike

3 Cheers for the Riviera

2011-07-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The Las Vegas Advisor recently reported in a response to a Question of the Day that the Riv is making some improvements. I for one think this is great news and am looking forward to seeing them thrive and set a pattern for the rest of the North end of the Strip.

On my first trip to Las Vegas, almost 20 years ago, my friend Steve and I stayed at the Riv. Back then, we walked a lot - heck, we were 20 years younger. We had the Stardust, the Dunes, the Desert Inn, and the Sahara. We also had Vegas World, but we didn't visit it for some reason, and Circus Circus. The only ones left intact in that group are the Riv and Circus Circus. MGM owns Circus Circus, and it has a definite niche with Adventuredome and a huge RV park. The Riv is now independently owned (Barry Sternlicht) and I really like the direction he is taking with the Riv for three reasons:

Focus on better gaming. I really, really hope this concept takes off and other casinos take notice. The Riv is putting in more slots and table games. Good ones, too. For slots, they're putting in Wheel of Fortune. As far as slots go, it's a good, fun game with a bonus feature that players love. And how about this: single deck 3:2 blackjack. That's unheard of anywhere these days, much less the Vegas Strip! There are probably some other rules that will negate the 3:2 advantage (I'll guess doubling-down on only a 10 or 11, limited splitting, etc.), but still it's worth checking out. They are also including single-wheel roulette and 10x odds in craps. They may never get me outta the casino!

Renovations that make sense. Most Vegas visitors these days expect new restaurants, fancy clubs, high-end shopping and Broadway-style shows. But the Riv is not going to compete with Wynn, Venetian, Bellagio, Aria or Cosmo on these grounds. They are also not going to follow the path of the failed Sahara and try to win whales and high rollers. Instead, they're looking at making a fresh start with what they have - a modest theater, good restaurants, and a nice, big pool. They're not trying to be who they aren't, which leads me to...

Bringing back Classic Las Vegas. Don't get me wrong. I love the modern casinos and enjoy strolling through them, even if I can't afford everything in them. But this town is big enough for all types of casinos. The Riv is part of Vegas history - it opened in 1955 and has undergone a ton of changes. The current facade was completed in 1990 - the brainchild of architect Nikita Zukov. Like many of the older, independent casinos on the North end of the Strip, it has struggled to make its mark. But there's hope and possibilities, and I think the new owner and staff are taking it in the right direction.

I'll be staying at the Riv again in September. I can't wait. For the first time in my life, I've even upgraded the room because it was only a few sheckles more and I thought it would be nice to stay somewhere other than the very least expensive room in a hotel. I'm looking forward to visiting Crazy Leroy's Sports Book and winning several college football parlays. I'm looking forward to spending some time in the giant pool in the afternoon shade. I'm looking forward to having a few beers at Queen Victoria's British Pub. Most of all, I'm looking forward to embracing part of classic Las Vegas history again.

Viva,

Mike

Total Rewards Goes Beyond Casino Walls

2011-06-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas Fans,

Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC) has announced that its new program will offer Total Rewards points for customers who shop at selected retail venues. So, gambling is not the only game in town anymore when you want to earn points.

Pretty cool marketing campaign, methinks. I've been pretty hard on CEC at times, mostly because of their crummy gaming in comparison to their past and to the rest of Las Vegas. But, fair is fair. This is a great way that a major gaming corporation is figuring out that they need to do more to compete. They can't continue to just wait for people to walk through the casino door and offer them a buffet for every 3,000,000 points they earn on Wheel of Fortune slots.

So I hope it works out for them. I typically don't gamble at CEC properties. Will this promotion be big enough to draw me in and look at the expected value for a negative gaming experience? Probably not. But it's still a good idea.

Viva,

Mike

Electric Daisy Carnival

2011-06-25T05:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The 15th annual Electric Daisy Carnival kicked off last night at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. They expect 250,000 fans to cross through the gates. Now a guy like me is too old to attend this type of thing but not too old to talk about it. At least not yet.

For those of you unfamiliar, this event is a gigantic rave music festival extravaganza. There's more than just music. It's spectacle - light show, carnival rides, people dressed up in bizarre costumes, stilts, you name it. Quite a fantastic experience in both sight and sound.

As I won't be attending, I do have some questions about EDC:

With all that beer and food, are carnival rides really a good idea? I mean, how do you not get sick?
Suppose I wanted to shave to look my best Sunday morning after 3 days of sensory overload. Where can I plug in my razor?
What is the exact geographic coordinates of the event? My wife wanted to know so that she could be at the polar opposite end of the Earth. It's just not her thing.

All kidding aside, I hope the fans attend have a blast and above all are SAFE (ah... the old guy in me is rearing his ugly head...). Take some pictures of those people in rubber costumes with the white makeup and black lipstick and post them to the Simplifying Las Vegas Flickr site.

Viva,

Mike

The Blackjack Book

2011-06-15T18:27:00.000-07:00

"What does the book say?"

You'll hear this question just about any time you play blackjack in Las Vegas. Players sometimes ask other players or the dealer what to do in certain situations. The funny thing is, even when people hear the correct play, they don't always do it.

Here's an example. Let's say you have 14 vs a dealer 10 card showing. The correct play is to hit. Let's say you get an ace. Now you're stuck with a crummy 15. So you ask the dealer - what is the correct move? Hit or stay? The dealer says to hit again. Keep hitting until you reach at least 17. But you're looking at your cards. You just hit 14 and you think that if you push your luck and hit again, you will certainly bust. You tell yourself "the book isn't always right." And while it's true that the odds are that you will bust, the odds are greater that you will lose if you don't hit and try to reach 17.

The good news is you don't have to memorize the right play or ask others what the book says. You can purchase a little cheat sheet card in any gift shop. The card is the book, essentially, because it shows you what to do in every situation. What the card won't tell you is how to find the right table. You need to make sure you are playing at at table that pays 3-2 on blackjack, not 6-5. There are other important rules that will either be in your favor or in the casino's favor, but I won't go into them here.

The important thing to remember is to have fun and follow "the book," which is really just making the right play based on odds. It's not tricky. It's not a gimmick. It's just numbers. And don't worry if anyone else at the table isn't following the book. In the long run, their play won't hurt you. You just have to focus on the money that is in front of you - yours.

I have lots more blackjack information about the book in my book. I hope you enjoy it!

Viva,

Mike

World Series of Poker

2011-06-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The 2011 WSOP events are in full swing at the Rio, although the main event doesn't start until July 7. Until then, it's a lot of smaller tournaments - there are 58 in all! - that keep poker-addicted fans busy. Everything from Omaha Hi-Lo to H.O.R.S.E. Yep, if you like poker, there are plenty of ways to get your game on.

The event has grown and changed so much in the 40+ years of its existence. In its first years, the WSOP was basically a couple of fold-up tables and a few dudes with names like Amarillo Slim and Puggy Pearson. The event was hosted by Benny Binion at his Horseshoe downtown. Like any good idea, the event grew and grew. Now, the WSOP is broadcast on ESPN and has over 70,000 entrants. Poker players still get nicknames, too, like The Poker Brat, The Mouth, and Unabomber.

Most of the top pros get their $10,000 entry fee paid for by sponsors. Although this year has been every interesting since three main poker sites (FullTilt, PokerStars and AbsolutePoker) that sponsor players were shut down on April 15 by the FBI on charges of fraud and laundering. Phil Ivey, one of the best poker players in the world, refused to play because he claims his sponsor, FullTilt, won't pay players their money due. FullTilt denies any wrong-doing and fired back that Ivey's intentions are self-serving. Ahh yes... I come for the poker but I stay for the drama.

Although I don't really play poker, I'm happy that it continues to thrive. Anything that keeps Vegas on its feet is a good thing. One of these days I'll sit down and really start learning about the game. I'm told the best way to learn is to play for free online at a site that has not been seized by the FBI. Well, I already sit in front of a computer a lot these days, so more of that right now that does not sound very appealing to me. But I'll get into it one of these days. To me, poker is lot like paintball or marriage. It's much more fun to play than to be a spectator, and you're probably going to get your butt kicked the first few times.

Viva,

Mike

Updates to Simplifying Las Vegas Home Page

2011-06-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

For me, the first step to updating the website always starts with the Home page. The other day I was looking at the cool photos on the SLV Flickr group. I saw one that I really liked from Christine Holm, so I asked her if I could use it. She was more than happy to have it on the site, so now it's the feature photo. Be sure to check out Christine's other work on her Etsy store or her Facebook page.

I will be making some other modifications to the site soon. Revising the site is a lot of research but a ton of fun, and it always is a springboard to update my travel guide. I hope you enjoy the changes!
Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas Flickr Group - New Milestone

2011-05-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The Simpifying Las Vegas Flickr group now has over 7,000 pictures and more than 525 members. For a city that boasts "what happens here stays here," that's a lot of photo evidence!

Viva,
Mike

Um.... Does Anyone Remember Gambling?

2011-05-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The latest news in Las Vegas points to an interesting trend on the Strip - more shopping and entertainment. Compass Investments broke ground this week on the new Skyvue Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel similar to the London Eye, which will be flanked by shopping and restaurants.

There is also a new shopping center that will be - gasp - next to Planet Hollywood, home to the Miracle Mile shops. Think about what's close to Plant Hollywood - you've got CityCenter with the upscale Crystal shops, and not far from that you've got the Forum Shops. Take a short walk south from Planet Ho, and you arrive at Showcase Mall, complete with M&M's World and the World of Coca-Cola, among other unique retail opportunities.

Too much? I think so. Don't get me wrong, I think a lot of variety of entertainment and dining options help attract visitors to Sin City. But this reminds me of another particularly odd time in Las Vegas' history. In the 1990's many casinos built entertainment options to present the city as a family-friendly destination. Remember the amusement park at MGM Grand? The pirate show at TI? It wasn't a bad idea - after all, why not try to increase visitation by enticing parents to bring the kids?

But it didn't really fly. Mom and dad want to escape, and they don't want Disneyland for kids, they want Disneyland for adults. So the MGM tore down the amusement park. The pirate show was revamped into The Sirens of TI, complete with scantily-clad ladies and shirtless pirates. Now the casinos have "party pits" where very sexy ladies dance while you drop your hard-earned money at 6-5 blackjack.

Downtown, you'll find a similar trend. There are often several concerts going on at the same time on Fremont Street. And you can get your photo taken with showgirls and bunnies. Um, not that I would know.

But the point is this. Entertainment is great in Las Vegas, but you can get top-notch shows and restaurants in many cities. What separates Las Vegas from them is the casinos. I wish they would focus more on them. Really focus on them. I think the art of planning the casino floor has been lost.

So I'm sending out an open call to casino moguls and the execs who run the floors. Rethink your gaming plan. Please. Here are some ideas, for starters:

Dedicate your space to lots of good table games and plenty-o'slots and video poker machines. Make that the focus of what you do again.
Send out good gaming promos to your players to draw them in, and not just the usual invitations to slot tourneys. Think about coupons for other games, poker gatherings, and other creative investments in the people who love to spend a few dollars in the casino.
Make sure your casino floor is comfortable so that guests will want to stay there a while. Freshen the carpets and felts on the tables, and keep those drinks coming. Too many cocktail waitresses take their time between rounds. Even when I pre-tip them.
Forget the unbuilt condos behind your properties. Let them rust. Remember that when push came to shove, they didn't work, but people still walk into your casinos.

I've got lots of other ideas. You'll find me at the 3-2 blackjack table with a rum and coke in my hand. I hope.

Viva,

Mike

"Bridesmaids" Didn't Leave Me with a Hangover

2011-05-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Before you think this blog post is a movie review, I want you to just hang with me here for a minute. Ok - so I went to see Bridesmaids with my wife. She picked this one. I picked the last movie - Everything Must Go starring Will Ferrell.

Rotten Tomatoes gave Bridesmaids an 89% fresh rating, and it has been billed as "the next Hangover." It had its moments, and a few raunchy scenes, but for me it really didn't live up to the expectations. And it's not because it wasn't set in Vegas or because my wife picked it. We tend to like the same movies, and I really trust her judgement.

But we tend to disagree on one aspect of movies: ratings. She follows Rotten Tomatoes pretty closely, and that's why she picked this movie. I do not follow the tomatometer. Here's why. They gave Secretariat only a 64% fresh rating. Worse, they gave Sense and Sensibility with Hugh Grant a 98% fresh rating. I liked Secretariat and thought it was a heart-warming but not over-the-top movie and gave me more than what I expected from a Disney flick - much better than a 64% rating. On the other hand, I'd rather stick my head in a vat of boiling grease and bob for day-old onion rings rather than see Sense and Sensibility. I have two very simple but strict rules about movies:

1. A movie shall not have Hugh Grant in it.
2. A move shall not be adopted by anything written by Jane Austin.

Those are my requirements. I don't need a fresh or rotten meter to tell me how great or how lousy a movie is. I just need to see a few coming attractions and read what the movie is about in order to determine whether or not I want to see it. Most of the time, I'm not disappointed. I'm sure you have your requirements, too, and I bet they have nothing to do with critics.

Ask yourself this question: how many times have you been to a movie that the critics loved but you hated? How about the opposite: how many times have you been to a movie that the critics didn't treat kindly but you liked?

But I digress. What does all of this have to do with Vegas? After all, I promised this was not going to be about movies. Well, here you go: don't trust ratings. You'll read lots of critics who review Vegas shows, restaurants, and so on. They all have opinions. Some of them will like stuff you hate, and others will hate stuff you like. You need to know what your Hugh Grants and Secretariats are. Then make up your mind.

Think about it this way - if the critics aren't always right, and you blow $35 or more on a movie (you're taking a date and buying popcorn), you're gonna be mildly tiffed that you spent hard-earned dollars on someone else's opinions. How are you gonna feel if you do the same thing on a much more expensive vacation to Las Vegas?

That's why my travel guide offers you something different. It has categories of information and provides you with a lot of context for what you need to decide about how you can have an awesome time in Vegas. And I've got a lot of work to do to update it for 2012. But that's for another blog post...

Viva,
Mike

Vegas Numbers

2011-05-11T17:57:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Today I have a bunch of numbers to talk about, beginning with a report from the Las Vegas Advisor:

5.6 percent: the increase in total Las Vegas visitors in March 2011 compared to March 2010
19.2 percent: room rate increase
4 months: that's how long revenues on the Strip were on the decline, until March
3 years: March saw the highest take from blackjack since 2008

That last one doesn't surprise me. I helped increase the blackjack intake in April for Strip properties. But despite my outcome, I'm happy that things are starting to look up again for Las Vegas. It's about time! I hope the good news continues.

Here are some other numbers, brought to you by the good folks at Simplifying Las Vegas (that's me):

516/6885: The number of members and pictures, respectively, associated with the Simplifying Las Vegas Flickr group.
152: Simplifying Las Vegas Facebook friends
33: Number of luggage tags I've given away since 2008

Thanks for all your support, Vegas fans! Please continue to visit this blog and my site and let me know if you have comments or questions. And, of course, continue to... Go to Vegas. It's that Simple.

Viva,

Mike

Viva Las Vegas

2011-04-21T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Here's a snapshot of our recent trip to the Strip. Steve and I had a blast, regardless of the fact that we lost some cash. Notice that the picture only shows us from the waist up. That's because we lost our pants. Ha! Just kidding.

I really had a great time. It's nice to escape from reality, if only for a little while. Part of the fun for me is that Steve and I go way back. Friends that gamble together stay together.

We checked out the Cosmo for the first time on this trip. Steve played some blackjack (and lost). It played it safe by just taking pictures. What a really fun place to hang out. It's really upscale, but unlike a lot of modern casinos, it's not difficult to navigate. I think the reason is that they built it "up" instead of creating a sprawling, 100 mile casino floor to roam until your feet ache.

We also saw a Dodgers game, and I cashed one of my only successful sports tickets. I had the Dodgers winning and also a second bet on the run line (Dodgers - 1 1/2 runs). They held on to win 7-5, which made the drive back to Vegas much nicer.

I'll be looking at another five day adventure within a few months, but until then I have a lot of work to do. I'm going to be making updates to the book and the site soon. I've just updated the Gambling tab on the website with a thought I had when Steve and I were losing money at the tables. It's a light, fun read, so take a look and let me know what you think.

Until then, remember... Go to Vegas. It's that simple.

Viva,
Mike

Flying Through the Air with the Greatest of Ease

2011-04-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

For those of you who fly to Sin City, you'll appreciate this article about America's Meanest Airlines. I have flown just about all of those major airlines, and I can tell you it's an accurate report. I now fly Southwest, new to my area, and I'm very pleased. It's a great airline with a spectacular business model.

I was surprised they issued paper tickets, and I am assuming this is because they are new to my city. However, even that was not a huge deal. I did have a problem retrieving my confirmation number (which only appeared on paperwork they sent me, but not on the ticket) versus my reservation number. When I wanted to check in 24 hours before my flight, I did not have all of my paperwork. My efforts to find my confirmation number online proved difficult, and I had to call to get it. Other than that, Southwest made my flight easy and enjoyable. Here are some highlights of my recent Southwest and airport adventures:

Southwest is fun. Flight attendants are funny and one even sang on my flight, making it an enjoyable experience for passengers.
For those of you not familiar with Southwest, boarding is different. You don't have an assigned seat, you just have a spot in an area. Then passengers board the plane and sit where they want. You'd think mass chaos would ensue, but it doesn't.
Southwest planes seem to have a little more room to me than others. And they serve normal size snacks, not those tiny pretzels that other airlines throw at you.
I love the charging stations available at most Southwest gates now. I charged my iPad and got online with free WiFi at the airports.
Two "first time EVER" situations for me: 1. The first leg of my flight arrived right next to the gate to my connection. No running through the airport, dragging a bag, getting on a train to another terminal. Nice. 2. I had a non-stop flight home where I just stayed on the plane. With Southwest, this was nice because I could move up and sit in one of the best seats on the plane. Little things like this make me happy.
Coming home, I went through one of McCarran's body scanners. When the TSA agent said, "remove ALL items from your pockets" that was no problem. But when he said, "remove your belts," I had to hold up my pants. This made it difficult when I was in the chamber and the agent said, put your hands up above your head and bend your elbows. I was afraid that everyone in McCarran airport was about to get a free showing of my boxers (plaid), but fortunately my pants stayed up. Barely.

Overall, traveling gets easier for me every year as I learned how to deal with airlines and airports. For me, the first step is picking my flights. I know when to fly into Vegas how busy the airport will be, how long the check-in line at the rental car and hotel will be, and so on. I'm ready for it. I also have learned that less is more in my suitcase, patience is a key, and most importantly, arrive early to the airport.

When leaving Vegas, I always leave my hotel 2 hours before my flight is scheduled to depart. If I get through security quickly and to my gate an hour early, so be it. I'll sift through my pictures and try to remember what happened on my trip. And then plan the next one.

Hope your next flight is safe and easy. And remember, for the love of all that is good and holy, ensure your seat back and folding tray are in their full upright positions.

Viva,

Mike

Vegas Photos

2011-04-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Check out the latest photos from my trip on Flickr or on my Facebook page.

Enjoy and comment!

Viva,

Mike

Final Four Madness

2011-03-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Whether your brackets are busted or you are hanging on by a thread, it's always fun to watch the men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments and pull for your teams. This year, I had two brackets for the men's tournament.

In my office bracket, I picked some big upsets (VCU beating G'town and Richmond beating Morehead St to reach the round of 16) but my brackets started to fall apart after that. My final four in that bracket are Kentucky, Connecticut, Kansas and Kansas St. I have Kansas beating UConn in the final. I'm in 3rd place there, and I don't think I have a chance to win it (haven't seen the other contestants' final four teams yet.

In my other bracket, run by my brother-in-law, I have the same final four, but in this one I have Kentucky beating Kansas in the final. This past weekend, a very specific scenario would ensure me a win regardless of what happens in the final four: Butler had to beat Florida, UConn had to win over Arizona, VCU had to topple Kansas, and Kentucky needed to secure the W over UNC. So you could imagine my surprise and utter jubilation when all four of those things happened. It was like my own magical mini-tournament.

College basketball - gotta love it. You never know what's gonna happen. I'll be in Vegas for the final four, and no matter who I bet on, it'll be quite a great experience watching the games knowing that I've already secured a win in one of my two pools!

Viva,

Mike

You Know You're a Vegas Nut When...

2011-03-21T19:25:00.001-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

This falls under the category of "certified Vegas nut." If I see Vegas-related stuff on TV, I watch it.

Now before you picture me on the couch, drinking a Colt 45 in my boxers with my hand in the pork rind bag, I want to clarify that I don't watch a lot of TV. But upon my return from the gym tonight (see... no booze or snack foods) I have found myself watching "Pawn Stars" on the History Channel. Last night it was "Undercover Boss" on CBS, which was about MGM Grand President and CEO Scott Sibella. Very touching show - I like Sibella.

I guess writing a Vegas travel guide also falls into the category of fanatic. What about you? I'd love to hear about what makes you a Vegas nut...

Viva,

Mike

eBooks and Apps

2011-03-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

I love apps. I've been playing with my iPad and discovering all kinds of fun stuff, especially Vegas-related. Apps are fun, cool and interactive. Perfect for small, mobile devices for people on the go.

Of course, I love eBooks, too, but they're different. eBooks contain more content and fewer features. The content might consist of words, pictures or maps, but the interaction doesn't work the same way as an app.

Obviously, there's a difference between reading/searching a book and surfing an app. There's a purpose for each. If I want to see photos of the Bellagio fountains and locate them on the Strip, then an app is great. Maybe I can read a review of them and see what time the shows run, too. So the app provides a snapshot of Vegas while you're there and gives you snippets of information. Which is great.

On the other hand, a good travel guide gives you a different experience. It connects the dots with a story. Now I don't mean a literal story, but rather one that arms you with information that you can use when you plan your trip and also use as content you can search while you are there.

Here's an example. Suppose I'm planning my trip to Vegas and I've decided that I'm going to see the volcano at Mirage because I haven't seen it in a while. I'm also a blackjack player, so I want to know what to expect at the tables. I know I'll only be in Vegas 3 days, so I want to explore as much mid-Strip as I can without having to take a taxi or spend a lot of time wearing out my shoes trying to find an Italian restaurant or a Cirque du Soleil show. By the way, my wife's coming with me, and she's going to want to shop, too.

That's my story, and whether I'm planning these things a month before I'm in Vegas or when I arrive at McCarran airport, it's the story that a good travel guide can help me tell, and it can do it comprehensively, in one format.

Maybe there's room for both apps and eBooks in this crazy new world. With free Kindle and Nook apps for the iPhone and iPad, you can have your travel guide at your fingertips. So while you're searching for "volcano" within your Vegas travel guide on your iPhone to see what time it erupts, you can also see that there's a free tram to take you to TI so you can see Mystere. You'll also see on a good map that there's a pedestrian bridge to take you over to the Venetian so you can spend some non-gambling money at the Grand Canal Shoppes. Oh, and if you want to spend some money gambling, your travel guide will remind you to find a 3-2 blackjack table and stay away from those 6-5 tables.

In any event, make sure that you tell your own story (even if you make it up) the next time you... Go to Vegas. It's that simple.

Viva,
Mike

MGM Grand featured on Undercover Boss

2011-03-20T07:15:00.001-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Tune in to Undercover Boss on CBS tonight to see the president and COO of the MGM Grand discover how the operation works.

Viva,
Mike

Baccarat and Blackjack

2011-03-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I read an article in the Las Vegas Sun recently which reports that baccarat and penny slots are overtaking blackjack as the number one game on the Strip. Baccarat is a high-end game, and penny slots are obviously cheap entertainment. The article quotes Anthony Curtis, publisher of the Las Vegas Advisor, who points out that blackjack is a game for the mid-market gambler.

With the economy the way it is, this kind of makes sense. Affluent people who can afford to go to Vegas these days are going to spend some coin on a game like baccarat. But gamblers who may have played $1 slots before are probably downgrading to the penny machines. But what about the average Joe and Jane, who play blackjack as their game of choice? Would they just not play as much because the economy is bad? Maybe. Maybe not.

There is one other factor that I think is missing in this equation. Caesars Entertainment, formerly Harrah's, now owns a majority of the casinos on the Strip. Their blackjack rules are terrible (6-5 payout on natural blackjacks, dealer hits on soft 17, etc.), even on multi-deck games. I no longer play at any of these casinos, which is a shame. I remember when Bill's Gamblin' Hall (formerly Barbary Coast.... which was a better name that did not require apostrophies or ampersands) was a great place to play $5 blackjack. So was Caesars, Aladdin (now Planet Hollywood), the Rio... and the list goes on. As Caesars Entertainment acquired more properties mid-Strip, I found myself on the very northern and southern ends of the Strip.

The funny thing is that it doesn't have to be this way. Casinos can have their cake and eat it, too. They can make the rules slightly better for players, which will drive more people to the tables. They still have an advantage, even with good rules.

Casinos may be worried about card counters. I get this. Make single-deck games 6-5; that's the price you pay if you are going to try to count. Install a constant shuffle machine for multi-deck games and use other measures to ward off card counters. But you are losing an opportunity with the large percentage of us who are not card counters.

The Strip needs blackjack as a staple because it needs the mid-market. If it's going to attract gamblers, it must provide a few decent games with fair rules. The good news is that there are still some places to play $5 and $10 blackjack with good rules, including: Stratosphere, MGM properties, Riviera, downtown, and several of the outskirts casinos (such as Station properties, Orleans, Las Vegas Hilton, etc.).

I encourage you to seek blackjack tables with good rules and to tell anyone who will listen to you to do the same. If you get surveys or have questions about your experience at a casino, comment on the blackjack rules, especially if they are bad. I'm starting a blackjack revolution. Will you join me?

Viva!
Mike

Sahara to Close

2011-03-12T03:51:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It's a sad day for low-rollers. The storied Sahara Hotel and Casino on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip is closing May 16th. Until then, it's business as usual, according to the casino.

The casino opened in 1952 and is famous for the Rat Pack days with Sinatra and company. Elvis hung out there in the 60s. In recent years, they built a roller coaster and added NASCAR attractions in an attempt to modernize the property.

The casino is extremely smokey, even by Vegas standards, and attracted grinds with $1 blackjack and other low-minimum games. The floor is dark and cramped. I know I'm not painting an attractive picture of it, but I always liked it. It's hard to capture the charm of this casino, but I always felt comfortable there. It's more like a downtown casino than a Strip joint, and maybe that's why it's had a hard time financially.

The Strip is a tough gig, especially these days when competition is fierce for every tourist dollar. The high-end joints, like Wynn, Palazzo, Bellagio, and Cosmo, are lowering prices to attract more people. Where does that leave the Sahara, the Riv, and the Strat? When they can't attract customers based on price, they lose their edge.

So it begs the question... is there still room on the Strip for the older casinos? Can they compete against the big, new venues with powerful marketing machines? I hope so. One of my favorite aspects of Las Vegas is the variety you get on every street. Whether it's a pyramid, pirates or the tallest tower west of the Mississippi, I'm looking to have fun and be entertained. Well, that and 3-2 blackjack.

Viva Sahara, I will miss you.
Mike

Amazon Author Page

2011-03-08T17:19:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I now have an author page Amazon.com. I hope you enjoy the page and post comments frequently!

Viva,
Mike

You Pad, We Pad, All Vegas Fans Can iPad!

2011-03-08T17:03:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

In case you haven't guessed, I recently purchased an iPad. I'd been looking for an excuse to buy one, and this year's income tax refund sealed the deal. It's quite a fun tablet, and it's so easy to use. It's light and surprisingly fast. It has fun games for free and stores a ton of iTunes music and photos. Great stuff.

One main reason I bought an iPad is to use when I travel to Vegas. I don't like lugging around a laptop through the airport and up to the hotel. And my Kindle just doesn't quite cut it when I need to do a lot of surfing online. Plus I can download the Kindle and Nook apps for the iPad, which allow me to read my books on one device.

With the iPad, I can get online quickly. If I don't want to pay for a hotel's wireless connection, I can go to a nearby Starbucks or other hot spot to get service. I'm not online a lot in Vegas, so it's not like I'd be dependent on the connection, but it's nice to have.

I will also find it useful on the plane. Between blackjack games, music and movies, I'll be able to pass the time faster and have a lot more fun. I can also read my travel guide and get really excited about my trip. While I have time to read on the plane, I'll also probably come up with some good ideas to modify it.

Some folks just need a smart phone. Others take a Kindle or a Nook to read on vacation. And some travelers will bring their laptops with them to Vegas. For me, the iPad is a win-win!

Viva,
Mike

New Photo on Simplifying Las Vegas Home Page

2011-02-27T05:18:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas gurus,

I hope you enjoy the new photo on the home page of Simplifying Las Vegas. It was submitted by John Babis and is a really beautiful shot of the Strip taken from Mandalay Bay. If you have taken a snapshot of the Strip, a digital depiction of downtown, or an outstanding outskirts photo, feel free to submit them to me to put on my home page.

Or, if you don't want your picture donning my home page, feel free to submit it to my Flickr group, which has over 475 members and over 6,300 photos! In any event, I hope you share them. I love seeing great pictures of Vegas!

Viva,
Mike

Of Robberies and Working Girls

2011-02-27T04:01:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It's been a high profile week for Las Vegas. The two main stories were very eye-catching:

1. Harry Reid suggests that the time has come for legal prostitution to go in Nevada. He has little support in his efforts, especially from other legislators who mention that Nevada has bigger fish to fry, such as the economy and education. The Las Vegas Review Journal reported the response from working girls and others interested in the topic. Their main argument is that illegal prostitution in places like Las Vegas is dangerous, and street girls have a high disease rate.

Statistics confirm these statements. Remember, when you are in Las Vegas (Clark County), prostitution is illegal and "what happens here stays here" could mean that you get: 1) arrested 2) your money stolen and/or 3) HIV. Better to play it safe in Vegas by either forgoing sex and just visiting a strip club or going across the county border to a legal brothel - there are some famous ones about 60 miles from Las Vegas in Pahrump.

2. Two men were arrested in association with the Rio robbery, according to the Las Vegas Sun, but the armed robber is still at large. The story goes something like this: Steven Gao (gunman not yet apprehended) owes Edward Land $15k, Land drives Gao to the Rio, Gao steals chips from a Pai Gow table, Gao takes off in Hiroyuki Yamaguchi's cab, who also knew Gao was going to rob the joint. Police have recovered about $17k in chips from Land's home. Land and Yamaguchi have been placed under arrest.

These types of plots almost never work. You have to be an evil genius to plan a casino heist, and even then you'll probably get caught. I mean, look at Ocean's 11. If you recall, they had a great idea, it took 11 of them, and they still needed a lot of luck to pull it off. If you haven't seen Ocean's 12, then I'm going to spoil some plot for you. They got caught. Terry Benedict (played by Andy Garcia) finds the 11 robbers and makes them pay.

Ok I know what you're thinking... what about Ocean's 13? True, that one worked, but I don't buy it. Look, Willy Bank (Al Pacino) knew who robbed him because Ocean (George Clooney) confronted him at the end of the movie. Robbery is like kidnapping: the only way it works is if you don't know who the perpetrators are.

My take? Whether it's a fun fictional movie or the scary, seedy real world, crime doesn't pay. I'm sticking to $5 blackjack and craps to try to win my fortune.

Viva,
Mike

Rio Robbery

2011-02-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The Rio was robbed in a similar fashion to December's Bellagio robbery. Except that this robber only took $32k in chips. So, if some dude in a ski mask asks you to cash in a few large chips at the Rio or any other Harrah's property, do yourself a favor and decline.

Here's hoping your weekend is fun and robbery-free.

Viva,

Mike

Win February's Free Gift - There's Still Time!

2011-02-22T18:47:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

You have a few more days to throw your hat in the ring to win a cool prize from Simplifying Las Vegas. All you have to do is try your hand at an easy trivia game (you can find all of the answers on the website). You don't have to buy anything or even download anything to play. It's all free, all for fun. And I only collect your e-mail address so that I can contact you when you win. It's that easy! This is, after all, Simplifying Las Vegas, and you know my motto...

Go to Vegas. It's that simple.™

Viva,
Mike

Legalized Online Gambling?

2011-02-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Since 2006, online gaming has been illegal. Now that the economy is in a downturn, the government is looking for more ways to make some money, and the online gambling bug is biting. There are, of course, plenty of opponents to this idea. They fear corruption, crime and addiction. All good points.

However, if the government is prepared for these problems, it has a better chance of controlling it. If they eventually decide to legalize gambling, they must set aside money for problems and be sure to have experts help handle them. If the government does nothing, then illegal gaming will continue with all of its inherent problems, and the fed will lose out on some serious revenue potential. There is always a trade off with gaming.

If online gaming does become legal, what does this mean for Vegas? Will visitation go down as people forgo keno for keyboards? Probably not. My guess is that people will continue to visit Vegas for the experience, which you can't get on a computer monitor. They may supplement their trips with online gaming, but for travelers, there's nothing like going to Vegas.

Viva,
Mike

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T04:46:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas lovers,

Don't forget today is Valentine's Day. Give that special someone in your life an extra hug. Even if it's your dog or cat. Hopefully it's a little less fuzzy than that.

Here's another idea. Book a romantic getaway to Vegas for the two of you. Yes, just the two of you. You deserve it. And Vegas is a great place for lovebirds. Try Paris - go to the top of the Eiffel Tower and look out over the city. You can see the Bellagio fountain show from there, too, which is another romantic site.

Go see a show together. Any of the Cirque shows are great for couples - from the daring and sexy Zuamanity at NY NY to the visually stunning Ka at MGM Grand to the Beatles Love at Mirage.

Rekindle your zest for each other. Vegas has a lot of options in this category, from the mild (like the Sirens at TI) to the medium (Peepshow at Planet Hollywood) to the wild (let's just say if you can dream it, Vegas can make it happen... for the right price).

Whatever you do today, I hope you enjoy love, whether you are with someone special or just doing something nice for yourself.

Viva,
Mike

Steve Darci and the Las Vegas Hilton

2011-02-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported on Friday that Steve Darci, the magician who had a show at the Las Vegas Hilton, passed away Friday after a battle with colon cancer. His website, and the Las Vegas Hilton's website, do not mention anything about his death.

I send my sympathy to his family and fans. I respect and admire his optimism to the end and wish that he could have won his fight against the disease.

I don't know what the protocol is for things like this, and I don't know how long you have to wait to respond, but I wish the Hilton would release a statement or put something in their news ticker or somewhere on their site out of respect for Steve Darci. I know this is a tricky and difficult issue for the Hilton, especially considering that the hotel is in a competitive entertainment industry. They are supposed to only report happy news and promote fun and excitement, not death. Take into consideration that the unwritten rule that "no one dies in a casino." Death is never an easy topic for a hotel/casino.

However, I remember when Roy Horn was attacked by a white tiger during his famous show with Sigfried in October 2003. The giant marque at the Mirage displayed well-wishes and prayers for the entertainer for 6 months after the incident.

The Hilton is undergoing changes. For a while now, they have been trying to update their style from a mature Barry Manilow to a hip new upscale joint, catering more to a younger crowd. I wish them well - I've stayed there in the past and may visit them again soon. It's a good place for gambling and hanging out.

They could take a moment, however, to pause and reflect on the life of one of the performers that worked hard to entertain its guests.

Viva,
Mike

The Myth of "Touristy"

2011-02-08T17:15:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I read a very good article in the New York Times today about a travel writer's first visit to Las Vegas. Matt Gross describes the path most travel writers try to take when they visit new cities: the "locals" route. This is a decidedly different method than the majority of people take: the "tourist" route.

Living in Charleston for many years has taught me the difference. When you live in a city that people visit frequently, there is some sort of "code" that we all have to follow. Residents shall not go to places that the tourists go, and tourists search out all the things that the locals do. I'm not really sure why. For one thing, I can tell you that many a Charlestonian enjoys when family visits so that they can go to the downtown historic section of the city and "play tourist" in their own town.

My point is this: the touristy parts of a city and the locals only corners are all part of the puzzle. In Las Vegas, the Strip and Fremont Street are fun and fantastic. So are Four Kegs and the Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas and M Resort. There's no shame in liking the "touristy" parts of town, whether you are a tourist or a life-long resident.

I think Gross puts it quite nicely when he describes his transition from the outskirts to Las Vegas Boulevard:

The 'real' Las Vegas I’d been exploring was a diversion from another, just as real version: the Sin City of the Strip, the crowds, the resorts, the gambling.

Absolutely.

Viva,

Mike

The Big Game!

2011-02-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas (and especially football) fans,

A few Super Bowl XLV happy thoughts for you all before kickoff:

May your beer glasses be full
May the commercials make you laugh, but not enough to spew beer out of your nose
May your favorite team win
May the point spread be in your favor, or the under/over be just right
May you have fun with your friends, family, and anyone else you can get to help you yell at the stupid quarterback who can't seem to make up his mind when to throw the dang ball and... (well, you know what I mean)
Lastly, may you enjoy the game safely, and please use a designated driver or call a cab if you enjoy it too much.

From the Las Vegas Advisor, the final line on the game "has the Packers favored by 2.5 in most places, though 3s can be found. The total is available from 44.5 to 45.5." I'm sticking with my original prediction: Steelers by a touchdown.

Viva,
Mike

It Takes All Kinds

2011-02-05T06:51:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I learned recently that the Digiscrap-apalooza conference will be in Vegas at the Riviera the same time that Steve and I will be there. In case you don't know (and I didn't), this is for scrap book fanatics. Not exactly something we would get excited about, but it got me thinking.

There's this Big Game this weekend (Super Bowl XLV), and although Vegas will be packed with football fans this weekend, it's not everyone's cup o' joe. It takes all kinds.

People go to Vegas for all different kinds of reasons, but it seems clear to me that it's a great gathering place, whether you are watching a sporting event, having a reunion, getting married... I could go on. Bottom line: when people think of "fun" and more specifically "over-the-top fun," Vegas often comes to mind. Viva Digiscrap-apalooza.

So whether you are watching the game in Vegas this weekend or at home or at a bar or at a friend's house, or whether you are knitting or baby-sitting or doing a crossword puzzle, whether you have never been to Vegas or whether you are going for you 100th time, remember my motto: Go to Vegas. It's that simple.

Enjoy your weekend.

Viva,

Mike

Classic Las Vegas

2011-02-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas aficionados,

Steve and I will be staying at the Riviera on our next trip. We've stayed there a few times, including on our very first trip back circa 1992. What a blast - we were just kids then, really. We really didn't know what to expect, but we had fun playing $2 blackjack and craps, even at the high-end places like Caesars and the Mirage. Back then, Caesars was a great place to gamble. Lots of tables, bonuses for things like 6-7-8 blackjack (not a side bet, a bonus!). Those days are gone.

My favorite venue was the Stardust. Even back then, it was kind of old and starting to show its age. But the blackjack tables were a blast, and the dealers were friendly. Above is a picture of me with one - her name was Penny and she was really funny. Great dealer.

Las Vegas still has some awesome, professional dealers, even if the bonus deals are long gone. That's one of the reasons I still enjoy visiting Las Vegas. The dealers really make the experience worthwhile. Well, the dealers and the cocktail waitresses.

The good news is that if you come across one that you don't like, you can just switch tables. Who needs Grumpy the Dealer? I've added some more ideas on blackjack tables and dealers on the Gaming tab, and I'd love to hear your thoughts, too. So please feel free to post some comments about good and bad experiences at the tables in Las Vegas.

Viva,

Mike

January's Luggage Tag

2011-01-31T05:00:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

A bunch of you have entered the trivia contest to win this month's luggage tag, but remember that if you have not done so yet, there's still time! As long as you fill out your entry at some point today, you could win this cool, attractive, durable luggage tag.

Starting tomorrow, I will have a new trivia contest. And don't forget you could win a t-shirt by answering my reader poll and sending me your name and e-mail. I don't use your e-mail address for anything other than contacting you if you win, so don't worry about spam.

Until next time... go to Vegas. It's that simple.
Viva,
Mike

E-Book Readers

2011-01-29T02:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

E-books are continuing to gain popularity, which is great news for those of us who travel. Last year, I predicted that Apple's iPad would basically eliminate amazon.com's Kindle and prevent the launch of barnesandnoble.com's Nook. How wrong I was! The iPad is a great tablet, but it looks like anyone who wants to primarily read books is buying either a 3rd generation Kindle or a Nook.

The good news for travelers is that any of these devices is better than stuffing a bunch of paperbacks or hard cover books into your luggage or carry-on bag when you are flying. And when you are in Vegas, e-readers are light, easy to read and make it so much easier to find the information you want. Or, if you like to sit by the pool and relax with a book, it's great to have a device like the Kindle, which is easy to read even in direct sunlight.

There are a lot of these devices on the market now, but all reviews I've read note that the Kindle and Nook are the best when comparing features head to head. Here are a few sites I've visited when looking at e-book readers:

Many reviews point out that the iPad and the Kindle different, so comparing them is kind of and apples and oranges argument. I agree. It depends on what you want in a device, and how much you're willing to pay for it.

However, I will make one final note about these readers. Both amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com have free downloads for apps that you can use for your mobile phone, iPad or computer. So, if you're looking for one device to "do it all" and you don't mind spending a little more (base price $500), the iPad may be the way to go because you can get Kindle and Nook books on it.

Whatever your electronic fix, make your life easier the next time you are traveling and consider an electronic book if you are looking for a Vegas guide. The book you choose should provide easy navigation, quick links and a lot of information because, after all, e-books all weigh the same.

Viva,
Mike

Super Bowl XLV

2011-01-25T18:29:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The early line on the Super Bowl game has the Packers favored by 3 points. It will probably go down in the next week, and some experts expect the line to close around Packers by 1.5 points. If I was a gambling man, I'd take the Steelers. In fact, I think Pittsburgh will win by a touchdown. Wait, I am a gambling man!

Although I'm a long-suffering Vikings fan, I hold no grudges against the Pack. In fact, the last time I was in Vegas, I placed a wager on the Packers (I think they were favored by a few points) versus the Bears at Chicago. But the result? Not good. The Cheeseheads had the game won several times over but were called for penalties that opened the door just wide enough for the Bears to pull it out with a last second field goal.

My buddy Steve and I watched the game at Blondie's in Planet Hollywood. Regardless of our frustration (we both bet on Green Bay), we had a good time. Blondie's is a fun place to watch a game, and numerous waitresses in cheerleader outfits were kind enough to allow me to take their pictures with Steve. All good, goofy fun. And, after all, he's a single guy.

Speaking of cheerleaders, I have read some rather disappointing news about the Big Game. Because neither the Packers or Steelers have cheerleading squads, we won't see skirts (or short-shorts) at the Super Bowl, which will be a first in the game's history. And hopefully a last.

Viva,

Mike

Positively Vegas

2011-01-20T17:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

January is the time when we think positive, when we are optimistic. Think about how many more people you see at the gym. Or maybe you're one of the people who just joined the gym. Anyway, it's got me thinking about a positive attitude. Does it have a place in Las Vegas? I mean, after all, the odds are always against you, its nickname is Sin City, and there are a lot of things that can go wrong out there if you are not careful. Or even if you are careful.

But I say, yes, you can be a positive person and have a good time in Las Vegas. Here are my 3 top tips for keeping things on the + side:

1. Be balanced. If you spend all of your time at the tables or on the slots, chances are you may lose some money. Don't keep playing blackjack until all of your money is gone. Take a break. Go see a show. People watch. Grab a bit to eat. Do all the other fun things Vegas has to offer. You'll have a better time, and your pictures will be a lot more interesting.

2. Go with the flow. I'm a planner. I like to know what I'm going to do pretty much all the time. I even plan (and over-plan) my trips to Vegas. But guess what happens every time I go? Yup, my plans change. And I'm never upset about it. Sometimes, you're just doing something with friends or family and you decide to be spontaneous. It can change things for the better.

3. Think about what works best for you. When you get to Vegas, it's easy to be pulled in to what other people want you to do or what everyone says is cool. Things like "you gotta play roulette" or "the strip club downtown is awesome... you gotta check it out." No, you don't have to do anything just because it's Las Vegas. It's your vacation, and it's your money. If you want to hang out by the pool and read a book, fine. If you don't want to gamble, it's ok. Remind yourself that you are the one in control and that you know what you like to do better than anyone.

Me? I like to escape. That's why I go to Vegas, that's what's in it for me. When I'm there, I'm positive. Positive that I'll have a good time.

Viva,

Mike

A Few Words About My Book

2011-01-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I feel like I am a very fortunate guy. I get to visit Las Vegas often and see the changes that take place so quickly there. Years ago when I discovered a need in the market for a fun, easy-to-follow guide that's unbiased (no sponsors), I wrote one. It's not perfect, but it's a result of a lot of research and this basic principle: you know what you like better than I do, so I'm giving you the tools to make it simple to search for and find what you are looking for quickly.

So I was a little disappointed today when I read a negative review of my book on amazon.com. A reader mentioned that my book has no Table of Contents, so it's impossible to navigate. However, my book does have a Table of Contents. In fact, I wrote the html code by hand to ensure that the table links specifically to the correct heading in the book. It can be difficult to find the Table of Contents on a Kindle, so I can understand the confusion. On my Kindle, I select the Menu button, then Go To. A little box opens at the bottom of the screen. Then I select the Table of Contents button. Voila!

I wrote my book specifically for Kindle, and with each new version I take great pride and care to ensure that it is easy to get from Point A to Point B. Many publishers (especially those that publish travel guides) simply copy their text from a Word document or PDF into an html file and publish it to Kindle. I code my book, line by line, including shortcuts to the next section and hyperlinks to find information easily. It's important to me to get it right and to make it fun and easy for you to read.

If you've purchased my book, THANK YOU! I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. I would love to hear your comments and suggestions so that I can continue to improve it. If you liked it and would like to comment on it, please log in to your amazon.com account or to barnesandnoble.com and share your thoughts.

Thanks for your continued support.
Viva,
Mike

This Year's Gonna Be a Great Year

2011-01-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

You all know that song by the Black Eye Peas - "I Gotta Feeling" - with the line "tonight's gonna be a good night." Well, I gotta feeling that this year's gonna be a great one for those of us who love to travel to Las Vegas!

What's my evidence, you might ask? Well, call it my gut instinct. Yeah, I don't blame you for not trusting that, either. Don't just take my word for it:

Visitation is up and continues to rise by a small percentage every month
Cosmopolitan is up and running, and reportedly fabulous
Bargains for the thrifty Vegas traveler are plentiful

Las Vegas is still the tops in gaming, shows, dining, and over-the-top fun. I'm planning my next trip for early April and can't wait to get back there. I'll be going with my friend Steve, and despite taking a good punch in the gut last September, we're ready to hit the tables again.

I'll have a lot more about my trip soon. For now, I'm focusing on updating the website by fine-tuning some of the tables, testing your knowledge with trivia, adding a new reader poll and more.

I've gotta feeling 2011 is gonna be a great, great year!
Viva,
Mike

Consumer Electronics Show

2011-01-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It's time to get your geek on. The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is in Las Vegas again, and it's a huge show (over 125,000 attendees!) at the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Venetian. Follow the show and its many, many products, vendors and exhibitors on their website: http://www.cesweb.org/default.asp.

I love gadgets, and I'd love to see the show someday. However, I am not crazy about huge crows, and I love discounts and cheap travels to Las Vegas more, so it'll probably be a while before I attend. Still, I bet it's lotsa fun.

Viva,
Mike

Neon Boneyard

2011-01-03T16:44:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas Fans,

What's one person's trash is another person's treasure. A friend of mine (thanks Kimberly!) sent me this USA Today article about the Neon Boneyard - the site where neon signs are on display after they have served their purpose at a property and are removed or replaced. As much as Vegas is about forgetting its past and moving forward, here's a place where visitors can see a slice of Sin City history.

Here's more information about the Boneyard and Neon Museum:

http://www.neonmuseum.org/

Viva,

Mike

2010 Vegas Year in Review

2010-12-31T15:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's, Vegas fans!

As I look back on 2010, I have a lot of good Vegas memories and some scars to remind me that Sin City is one tough town. Here are some of my favorite highlights from this past year, in no particular order:

CityCenter: This is one groovy, high-end property with art sculptures, swanky bars & restaurants, Viva Elvis Cirque show, and a dark casino. Good times.
Birthday Blowout Bash: I turned a milestone age this year, and I celebrated with family and friends in Las Vegas. The first night of my trip, I had a few cocktails at Bill's Gamblin' Hall and then... well, the rest is somewhat fuzzy. I do recall having to call my wife to help me find my way back to the room. Good times.
Cosmopolitan: The new property, not the drink. I have not been there yet (if you have, let us know what you think!), but it looks nice and I plan to go there on my next trip.
Increased visitation: While gambling revenue has not rebounded quite yet, there are more and more people visiting Las Vegas these days. Slow but steady increases are good news after a few years of negative numbers.
Harrah's becomes Caesars Entertainment: Meh. Let's see what happens.
Might as well Jump at the Stratosphere: A new attraction at the Strat temps visitors to jump off the building. I think they strap a bungee cord or parachute to you or something.
Gillies at TI offers mechanical bull: You can ride it, or you can watch cowgirls wearing little more than their boots on it. Ah, I love legitimate theater.
Simplifying Las Vegas new website, 2011 electronic book versions available on Kindle, Nook and as a Flipbook: Gotta plug SLV. It's been a great year, thanks to you all!

I'm looking forward to 2011. My New Year's resolution is to continue providing great content, fun, and news to readers.

Here's wishing you a happy, healthy, prosperous 2011!
Viva,
Mike

Relax and Enjoy

2010-12-27T13:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, Vegas fans!

I hope you are enjoying a nice, relaxing break from reality over this holiday season. I am traveling (though for once not to Vegas) and visiting with family. As much as I love what I do, it's nice to get away from it all. There's really nothing like taking your mind off.... wait, what was I saying? See, I'm really relaxed!

When you are out there spending your holiday gift cards, don't forget to go green. If you have spending money at Barnes and Noble, consider a Nook. If you have some cash to burn at Amazon, think about a Kindle. These are great ways of reading lots of stuff and not carrying around a ton of weight. eBook sales have increased significantly this year, which is great news for us self-publishers.

Regardless of how you are spending your gift cards and spending your holidays, enjoy them! And don't forget how nice it feels to be doing something different, something out of the ordinary. The same is true for your trips to Vegas. I'm planning one for April now, after nixing the idea of planning one for February. I need a break, and Vegas is the great escape. I can hang on till April. I think. Remember to enjoy yourself and that you deserve a vacation. And where better to spend it than Las Vegas?

Thanks for your support. Enjoy your week,
Mike

Electronic Holiday Gifts

2010-12-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I've been in this spot before, and I'm wondering how many of you have, too. It's December 23rd (or 24th), and I haven't finished shopping. There's that one person on the list that I can't seem to figure out what to buy. I don't mean "the perfect gift" either. I mean a nice gift that won't break my bank but will be a thoughtful present.

It's got to be one that's easy to buy - after all I don't want to be stuck in traffic or wandering the cold streets all night. I've got eggnog to drink! And when it's this late in the year, you can't really shop online unless you want to pay a zillion dollars in shipping. Ouch.

How about this? Try an electronic gift. I always like to give (and receive) iTunes or e-books. They're environmentally friendly, they're easy to buy on the spot with no shipping costs, and the recipient will always be able to use them. If you're in the market for an e-book, and the person you are buying for is a Vegas nut like you, please consider my book. If you purchase any flavor (Kindle, Nook, PDF or Flipbook) of my book by December 31, I will send you a luggage tag for free as a token of my appreciation. All you have to do is e-mail me with the date you purchased the book and they type of book you bought. It's a win-win, so give it some thought.

Wishing you and your family a very happy holiday season!

Viva,

Mike

Wish List

2010-12-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas aficionados,

As the holidays approach, it's time again for me to present my Wish List. My list contains things for Las Vegas because, after all, I'm pretty fortunate and I don't need a thing. Well, maybe a Vegas-themed Snuggie, but little else.

Las Vegas needs a few things, and I mean besides increased visitation, higher gaming revenue, a brighter job market and improvements in the housing market. Those are all obvious, and when the economy picks up, most of those things will turn around. So here's my Wish List for Las Vegas in no particular order:

1. Rain. Sure is dry in the desert. Vegas needs some steady rain, not the flash flood type of downpour. The outlook is not good, but we can ask, can't we?

2. Prosperity for Cosmopolitan. Last year, I asked Santa for CityCenter to open with great fanfare and to thrive for years to come. They are struggling a bit, but I think in the long run they will be profitable and travelers will see how much fun this place is and how fantastic an idea CityCenter is. Cosmo, it's your turn as the newest kid on the block. Knock 'em dead.

3. A continued trend of fun, entertainment, amazing food, escape, great pools, and general wackiness. Las Vegas has always provided that for travelers, and as long as that's the case, I'll continue to go back. I think for Las Vegas, it comes naturally. Here's to you, Sin City!

Here are some other personal Wish List items (again, in no particular order):
1. Removal of the BCS. No one needs this stupid football system when a playoff would work nicely. Wouldn't make my football tickets pay off any differently, but it would make for a more interesting season.

2. Better gaming rules on the Strip. With Caesars Entertainment (formerly Harrah's) and the Mirage owning a majority of properties, the average Joe doesn't have many choices. We need more table games, better rules, and a good number of low-minimum options. Please (see? I asked nicely!).

3. Finally, for you - my family, friends, and readers - I wish the happiest of holidays. May your Wish Lists all be fulfilled. May you spend time with the ones you love. May you enjoy every minute of it. Thank you for your continued support. Thanks for making Simplifying part of your lives. It's a blast for me, and I hope it is for you, too.

Viva,
Mike

'Tis the Season

2010-12-05T17:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It'll be here before you know it. That's right, bowl season is upon us. Oh and the holidays, of course. But college football is another good reason to celebrate, especially if you're a gambler. I love watching college sports even more than pro sports these days, with the exception of baseball (lose the aluminum bats, fellas).

College football is such a treat, and it comes and goes way too quickly. Of course, some of that has to do with the stupid BCS. Someone please tackle these morons who are running this catastrophe. It's a sad day when a few suits pocket money from sponsors instead of giving fans what they really want: a small playoff system. That's all we ask, really!

In any event, I'm sure I'll watch a bunch of bowls. It's way too early for lines on most games yet, but here are some early Mike predictions:

My beloved Virginia Tech Hokies beat Stanford with a late field goal
Maryland over East Carolina by 10
Kansas State over Syracuse by 14 at Yankee Stadium
Kentucky upset Pittsburgh by 2 points
Nevada tears apart Boston College by 21
Auburn beats Oregon in the National Championship by 4 points

You heard it here first. If you make some money off of any of these bets, you can thank me by purchasing my book. If you lose a lot of money, this site is for entertainment purposes only.

Here's one bet you can't lose. In February, Lingerie Bowl VIII is coming to Las Vegas. Unbenownst to my wife and my buddy Steve, I am seriously considering attending this event on Feb 6th. Steve, if you are reading this, see if you can clear your schedule for this very important sporting event.

Stay tuned...
Viva,
Mike

Harrah's now Caesars Entertainment Corporation

2010-11-28T08:43:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Harrah's canceled its IPO and has officially changed its name to Caesars Entertainment Corp. You can read the details of the transaction in the LA Times and Las Vegas Sun articles.

By any other name, it's still the same megacorp with Gary Loveman at the helm. As you may have read in my previous posts and in my forums, I'm not a huge fan of entertainment and gambling at Harrah's (oops, I mean Ceasars Entertainment Corp or CEC). The rules are not good for players, and the experience tends to be very generic.

The hotels in the chain (Bally's, Paris, Caesars, Harrah's) are pretty nice. The rooms I've stayed in are clean, comfortable, and a good value. Well, with one exception: the Imperial Palace, or as my wife calls it, the "IP freely" (because of the smell), which is a below par for a mid-Strip hotel. Now as the old saying goes, "how much time do you spend in your room in Vegas?" Not much, but people do typically associate their vacation with their hotel or hotel chain. Vegas Today and Tomorrow has a good map of Who Owns What.

For example, if you're staying at the Flamingo, you are probably going to spend time there and in surrounding properties for convenience, and they are all owned by CEC. Most of your other options on the Strip include MGM properties, Wynn, or Sands (i.e. Shel Adelson... think Venetian and Palazzo). MGM has a huge grip on the South Strip (Excalibur, NY NY, MGM Grand, etc.) and is a better proposition than CEC, but I'd like to see more $5 tables at their properties. A lot more.

The funny thing is that it doesn't have to be like this. I prefer to play at the Stratosphere. Now, it's not the most glamorous place in the world, so if I'm going with my wife and want a nicer hotel, we may book somewhere else. However, I can gamble at the Strat all day - either at the blackjack tables, the sports book or the craps tables. If I want to venture out to other places to eat, see stuff, or take a break, I just hop in the car.

On our last trip, my buddy Steve and I drove out to M Resort. Nice place, good rules for gaming. A little bit out there, but nothing ventured, nothing gained. I don't mind cruising to to other places - like downtown, the Riv, the Trop, Excal - for a change, but it would be nice to have even more opportunities on the Strip to spend my entertainment dollars.

I would guess that I'm typically the exception rather than the rule; I would bet that most people play where they stay. But remember the Golden Rule; you have the gold in your pockets, and you decide where to spend it (which should be the places with the best rules). It's time we start telling these megaresorts the real deal. We're educated. We know that CEC owns a majority of the mid-Strip properties and MGM has a lock on the South Strip. We're not going to be held hostage by limited options. Give us better gaming, good deals, and a unique experience. Otherwise, we'll go somewhere else.

Vegas fans, I urge you to think about these things the next time you book your trip to Las Vegas. Regardless of where you stay, please don't play somewhere that has bad gaming rules. Don't eat in a restaurant just because it's in your hotel. Don't go see a show that's not really your style just because it's within walking distance. My biggest Vegas tip? Rent a car. It will open up your world to other venues and will remind you that Las Vegas is more than MGM and Caesars.

Viva!
Mike

Thankful

2010-11-27T06:01:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I hope you are all recovering from too much food and family. If you are a gambler, may all your bets on college football cash.

I am relaxing at home this weekend and have been reflecting on this past year, the book, the website, and Las Vegas. It's been a fantastic year, and I have been very fortunate to have such great support. First, I'm thankful for friends and family. Second, I'm thankful for the Las Vegas Advisor, and particularly Deke Castleman, who has been very kind to me, offering great advice and support. If you are going to Las Vegas next year, I urge you to check out their website and become a member.

Finally, I'm thankful for you, my readers and followers. You've been so supportive and kind, and I want you to know how much I appreciate it. I so enjoy sharing my thoughts and experience about Las Vegas with everyone, and I hope it makes a difference in your travels. I also hope that you all will share your ideas and experience with me, too. I love all things Vegas, so keep the comments coming, even over the holidays!

As you are sipping a bowl of turkey soup (again) and watching the big game on the tube, remember how good it feels to take a break from work and other responsibilities, even for a short time. Notice how much it means to your soul, and then think about how fun it would be to get away from it all in Las Vegas. You deserve it, so start thinking about planning a trip now!

Happy Thanksgiving.

Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas 2011 - A Travel Guide for Everyone

2010-11-21T08:02:00.001-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

You may have noticed since my last post that it's been a while since my last post. Have I been lazy? Sick? Tired? Sick and tired? Well, yeah, but those are not the reasons I haven't posted a blog entry in a while. I've been busy.

I've been feverishly updating my travel guide, Simplifying Las Vegas, for 2011. It is now available in several different formats:

I may be biased here, but I think this travel guide gets better every year. Although it's not easy to provide this book in so many different formats, it's worth it. Variety is the spice of life, and this close to Thanksgiving, we all like a little spice.

You can see a taste of SLV's spice on the home page of my website. I've included a small sample of the new flipbook so you can see what you'll be getting if you purchase it. I hope you enjoy it. It is a labor of love. As always, feedback, questions and discussions about all things Vegas (including my site and book) are welcome.

Thanks and enjoy!
Viva,
Mike

2011 Simplifying Las Vegas

2010-11-07T06:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I'm putting the finishing touches on the new version of my travel guide, Simplifying Las Vegas 2011. I'll have it available as a PDF flip-book, a Nook book and a Kindle book. It will have new information, updated tables, and tons of tips to help you save your gambling dollars and keep out of long lines and traffic.

If you are going to Las Vegas next year, my guide will really help you plan and enjoy your trip. Stay tuned!

Viva,
Mike

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T05:23:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,
For kids, today is probably one of the most fun holidays of the year. It goes kind of like this... Christmas, birthday, Halloween.

It can be a fun holiday for adults, too, although some don't like to admit it. I mean, we're not supposed to get dressed up in costumes and dance around like goofballs, right? Wrong! Las Vegas has the right idea about Halloween:

Step 1: Devise a clever get up, disguise yourself with a mask, or become someone you've always wanted to be (a washing machine, "The Situation," Elvis, a sexy nurse, etc.).

Step 2: Gather with friends or go to a club

Step 3: Partake in a few adult beverages.

Step 4: Repeat Step 3. Several times.

Vegas and Halloween go hand in hand. Much like Vegas, Halloween allows you to step outside of your everyday life.

But regardless of where you are today, consider donning a fun costume and going out to a party. You don't have to do something elaborate. One year I went as static cling (pinned socks and underwear to my clothes).

And speaking of fun... Simplifying Las Vegas 2011 is almost complete. I have a little more work to do, and then you can buy it as a flip book on my website, as a Kindle book, or as a Nook book. I'm very excited about the new versions!

Viva,
Mike

Las Vegas Memories and Regrets

2010-10-17T04:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I've been thinking lately a lot about how Las Vegas has changed over the past 20 years. I'm glad I've seen so much during that time, but I've also missed a lot, too, thinking that "I'll get around to it next time"; sometimes next time doesn't happen because it's gone.

Things I'm glad I saw before they closed (in no particular order):

Elvis-a-rama: cool Elvis museum, complete with a purple Cadillac and a few jumpsuits. Closed in 2006.
Folies Bergere: great show at the Trop. Showgirls, feathers, energetic routine... couldn't ask for more - classic Vegas show. Closed in 2009.
Desert Inn: easily the classiest casino ever to grace the Strip. I stepped foot in it a few times before it closed, although I never stayed or played there, so it's not like I got a chance to sink my teeth into it. Closed in 2000.
Stardust: my favorite casino for gambling. It just had an old-school atmosphere and good, inexpensive blackjack ($2!) with great rules. The dealers were friendly and it was really easy to get around the floor. Great restaurants, too. Closed in 2007
Liberace Museum: had so much stuff it was housed in two buildings. I'm not a fan of his music, but boy the museum was fun and full of information. It's closing today, and I'll miss it.
Free picture with Elvis in front of Imperial Palace: my wife and I had ours taken about seven years ago. It was a great snapshot right in the heart of the Strip. Then we walked down to the casino cage to get the picture. They stopped doing this a few years ago, right around the time Harrah's purchased the casino.
The old pirate show at Treasure Island: before it was Sirens at TI, there was a cool battle between pirates and the British navy. The pirates won, of course (only in Vegas to the bad guys come out on top to the cheers of the crowd), and it was a great show for adults and kids. As Vegas returned to a more Sin City atmosphere, the Brits went away, and the pirates took their boat. The half-naked women took the pirates' old boat, and the pirates had to beg for mercy from the Sirens. It's not the same.

Things I wish I had seen before they closed:

Siegfried and Roy: I'm not much into magic, but I hear this show was outstanding, especially in its earliest days. Closed in 2003 after one of the white tigers attacked Roy.
Free picture with $1 million at Binion's: used to be a cool mil display that used $10,000 bills (very rare). Now, you have to pay to have your picture with the dough (or sign up for free slot play or some other catch), and they use hundreds, twenties, and singles. Not the same.
Vegas World: from all descriptions, this would have been my kind of place. A weird space theme, good gambling, and general goofiness invented by Bob Stupak before he built the Strat. I didn't need to miss it, either, because I was there while it was still open. Dang. Closed in 1995.
Free Aspirin and Tender Sympathy sign: a really cool sign and a subject of the Las Vegas Advisor's Question of the Day, which I answered in November 2008. I never saw the sign "live," which was moved to the Neon Museum's Boneyard circa 1996.
Bikini Bull Riding at the Frontier: I tried, but the bull was broken. Then they closed the Frontier for good. So, I've gotta hit Gilley's at TI because they have one, too.

I'm noticing that my regrets list is shorter than my happy list. I guess that's a good thing.
What do your lists look like???
Viva,
Mike

Simplifying Las Vegas Now Available on Nook

2010-10-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I'm happy to announce that Simplifying Las Vegas is now available as an e-book on Barnes and Nobles Nook e-reader! It took me a little while to figure out the formatting, but I think it will be a really good fit for my book. The Nook allows for html tables, so you can see all of the information in its original format, much like you see it on the website.

I hope you enjoy SLV as a e-book, either via Kindle, Nook or as a PDF on my website. Thanks for your continued support!

Viva,
Mike

New Las Vegas Travel Guide Electronic Book Venue

2010-10-10T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Good news - Barnes and Nobles is now allowing us self-publishers to upload electronic books via its Pubit venue. It's a lot like Amazon's program for Kindle. I am currently working on getting Simplifying Las Vegas in the right format. It's a bit challenging because my Word document has a ton of tables, hyperlinks, and other elements that make it difficult to translate into an electronic book. So, I've gotta work on the html code to make it work. It's a time-consuming process, but well worth it. You'll hear from me (probably see me jump up and down) when I finish it.

In the mean time, I'm also working on a PDF flip book for the 2011 version of Simplifying Las Vegas. This is an easier conversion. However there's a ton of research that goes into each year's edition, so I have a little more work to do before I publish it.

This is an exciting time for authors, especially for travel writers who can publish and then update it on the fly when information changes. That's typically the case in Las Vegas, so I feel very, very lucky that I'm writing during a time when this technology is available to anyone.

I want to take a moment to say thank you for your continued support! I was a little concerned that interest dropped in September, but October is looking strong, and when I looked at my Kindle report yesterday I noticed that SLV has another fan in the UK!

If you ever have comments, suggestions or questions about SLV, Las Vegas, or publishing e-books, please let me know. I'm always happy to discuss these topics.

Viva,
Mike

Brief Reflections on Recent Trip to the Strip

2010-10-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It's been a few days since my last trip to Vegas. So I've had some time to reflect, replenish, and remind my boss how great I am so that I can get a raise to make up for the money I lost. Ha. It's ok... it was a good trip anyway. I got to spend some time with my friend, Steve, who had a rougher trip than me. Undoubtedly, we will return again, hopefully victorious. Or at least break-evenous.

Some observations from my recent trip:
* The Stratosphere, though cruel to me and Steve, is still my favorite place for $5 blackjack in Vegas.
* Sports betting is fun but can be so heartbreaking when your bet loses by 1/2 point.
* It's good to have dumb luck sometimes. I bet a 3-game parlay (my beloved Virgina Tech Hokies, Kansas State, and NC State Wolfpack). I misunderstood Steve, and we wound up betting all three teams to win outright instead of betting the spread. Oops. It wound up working out, and we won more than if we had played the spread!
* M Resort is kind of outta the way, it's big, and it's fancy. Good $5 blackjack and craps, though there's not much excitement there.
* Plenty of "party pits" or gaming pits with scantily clad young ladies. While you're looking at the girls, look out for bad rules at the table games near these, too.
* There's still lots of fun things to do when you need a break. I loved the Bellagio conservatory (free) and the Fine Arts Gallery ($15 admission). What a great way to spend some time on a vacation!

See my pictures on my Facebook page or on my Flickr account.

Can't wait to go back!
Viva,
Mike

Vegas Online

2010-09-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The Stratosphere has refreshed its website. I think it looks pretty cool, and it's pretty easy to navigate. Some of the sub-navigation takes a little getting used to - I'm not a huge fan of having to move my mouse around a bunch to get to a specific link. But, overall it's a great site, and the new styles are quite good.

Speaking of new sites... I have just updated the majority of the tables and info on Simplifying Las Vegas. It's not easy keeping up with every new restaurant, show, etc. as well as making sure that the links work for the existing ones. But it's a labor of love!

Soon, I'll be publishing SLV 2011 as an online flipbook and as a Kindle book. Be on the lookout for more news about that soon.

Until then, remember my philosophy... Go to Vegas. It's that simple.
Viva,
Mike

Top 10 Reasons to Go to Vegas

2010-09-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

It's been a while since I've done a post like this, and I thought it would be fun, especially as my next trip to the Strip looms.

Here are my top 10 reasons to visit Sin City:
10. Free parking. That's right, I said parking. As in "free parking" in garages on the Strip and outskirts, and inexpensive (sometimes comped) parking in garages downtown. You can even get free valet service, but I usually skip this because I can park where I want when I want without waiting for someone to retrieve my car, and I don't have to tip anyone if I park myself.

9. Free shows. The fountains at Bellagio are probably the best and certainly the most famous, but there are tons of other things you can see for free when you take a break from the slots and tables. Like the volcano at the Mirage, or the lions at MGM Grand, or the Fremont Street Experience. All good stuff that doesn't cost you a dime.

8. Top notch entertainment. Cirque du Soleil - need I say more? Great shows, like Ka and The Beatles Love are worth seeing more than once. Add comedy, the best and hippest bands, magic and other types of acts, and you can see whey Vegas is a popular destination for shows.

7. Cool pools and pool parties. I'm a little past the age curve for pool parties, and I worry that they are getting too crowded for the pool management teams to handle, but they are also plenty fun in moderation. As for me, I enjoy a good swim in the morning after an evening of gambling and rum-based drinks in a smoky casino. MGM's pool complex is pretty outstanding, and the last time I was at the Flamingo, the water was refreshing if not downright cold. Good times. I've never been to the Mandalay Bay pool complex, but surfboards and sandy beaches sound pretty cool to me.

6. Clubs. Yeah, I'm a little old for these, too. But there's nothing better than getting dressed up and hitting the dance floor (or at least the bar next to the dance floor).

5. Restaurants. You can find everything from a nice, clean, inexpensive diner to a five-diamond exclusive experience. If you like to eat, Vegas is a great destination.

4.Rum and Coke. My favorite cocktail at the tables. Some say "don't ask for well drinks at the tables because they water them down too much." Don't care. Just keep bringing them. After a while, the cocktail waitress just knows the deal. She'll look at me and say "Rum and Coke?" Yup. Rum and Coke.

3. Craps. Sometimes, I just throw my money on the table and say "thanks, that was fun" and walk away. However, if I can hit at least one point (or, more likely, if someone else at the table can hit a point), life is much more exciting. A full craps table in Vegas is one of the best times you can have with your clothes on.

2. Blackjack. My other favorite game, and a staple when I'm in Vegas. Sometimes it seems like you haven't won a hand in hours, and then all of a sudden you get on a winning streak. If you can hang at a crowded blackjack table for a while, you can really have a good time.

1. Escape. Life is serious. We spend a lot of time working, taking care of responsibilities, cutting the grass, helping neighbors and family, driving the kids to soccer practice, and so on. Life is short. Vegas is fun. When I'm there, I don't worry about anything, and I can really cut loose and have a good time. I'm prepared so that when I go, I don't have to guess how much money I can lose or how much I can spend. It's all taken care of ahead of time so that when I'm there, it's just fun.

I hope you have a chance to go to Vegas soon. Escape for a little while so that when you come back, you are refreshed and can handle everything else in your life a little easier.

These are my top 10. What are yours?

Viva,
Mike

Liberace Museum to Close

2010-09-11T09:52:00.000-07:00

According to the Las Vegas Advisor, the Liberace Museum will close in October after being in business for 31 years. This is really a shame. It is a wonderful exhibit, and if you get a chance, please go see it.

You don't have to be a Liberace fan to enjoy it. There is a lot of memorabilia, cool cars, pianos and plenty of jumpsuits. It's kitch to the 10th degree, and it's a nice break from the over-stimulation on the Strip. The people who work there are very knowledgeable and friendly. I will miss it.

Just as I miss Elvis-o-Ramma. I know that in Vegas the only constant is change, but usually it's a casino that gets imploded so that a newer one can take its place. When museums and galleries close due to lack of interest or financial troubles, it's a little harder to swallow.

I've always said Las Vegas is so much more than gambling. I like to support the shows, attractions, and other fun stuff that goes on outside the casino. There's plenty to do. I hope that's always the case, and I'll keep supporting these other ventures as long as I go to Vegas. I can't wait to see Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form in a few weeks.

And I'm not a person who constantly says "this isn't the Vegas I remember anymore" or "Vegas ain't what it used to be" - after all, that's the point. Keep it fresh, keep it fun, keep it exciting. But there's always room for familiarity, and I hope that there are more events and places that stay open and continue to change rather than close. I hope.

Viva,
Mike

Happy Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

I hope you are enjoying your Labor Day weekend thus far. If you're in Las Vegas - have a blast! I typically don't visit Sin City on holidays to avoid crowds. But visitation numbers are down, so it isn't as crowded as some years.

I encourage everyone to take a break during this 3-day weekend, if you can. And what better way to get away from reality than to visit Vegas? Rates are really reasonable right now, so think about getting away to the most exciting city on the planet. I can think of anything more fun than my trips to Vegas. My countdown is 20 days - just under 3 weeks and I'll be soaking up some blackjack, craps, and rum & cokes. Good times.

Until then, I'll be updating the site and coming up with new ideas for the book. I hope you enjoy all that Simplifying Las Vegas has to offer!

Viva,
Mike

Of Pools and Pool Parties

2010-08-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

As the summer winds down, Las Vegas visitors are trying to get in as much pool time as possible. There have been a few problems at pools lately. Recently, the MGM Grand pool closed because of a faulty injection pump, there was a fatality earlier this month when a man died at the Hard Rock of a head injury at a pool party, and a kid almost died at the Rio's pool a few weeks ago. Please be safe and aware of your surroundings if you're partying at pools.

I'm all for having a few drinks by the pool or in the cabana, but there's a difference between partying in a nice, dry, air-conditioned club and a wet, hot, slippery poolside. Just be aware of your surroundings, and remember that there may be kids around, too.

I remember a few years ago when I visited MGM Grand's pool complex. It's really something to behold, and if you've never been there, I highly recommend it when it reopens. The lazy river is a lot of fun, whether you're 7 or 75. And there are so many pools that even during crowded times, you can find a place to swim, or at least stick your toesies in the water.

I've never been to Mandalay Bay's beach, but from what I've heard and seen, I don't think there's a better pool in Vegas. Waves, sand, and lotsa water. Talk about fun! One of these days I'm gonna splurge and stay there just for the pool experience.

Some of these pools were built when Vegas was trending more towards a family friendly era. That passed quickly when execs realized that kids can't gamble. But, many of the cool pools remained in tact.

And I'm glad. It's just another fun reason to explore the wonder that is Las Vegas. So, for the rest of the summer, be cool and have a good time by the pool!
Viva,
Mike

There's still time...

2010-08-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

...to win a free Las Vegas Luggage tag. In one week, I'll pick a winner. All you have to do is play trivia for fun. And of course for free. Good luck!

Viva,

Mike

Digital Flipbooks & Vegas: A Great Match

2010-08-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas gurus,

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitor's Authority, which brings us the best interactive Las Vegas maps, has a really cool digital flipbook on their site. Their online information includes some pretty nifty features, including search capabilities, easy zooming, and links both to other places within the book and to external sites.

Of course, the LVCVA is not the only game in town. There are plenty of properties that are offering more information in flipbook fashion, like Caesars' Empire and The Hard Rock's HRH magazines.

These digital publications are often funded by the ads within them and usually include links directly to the advertisers' sites. These are really cool, slick publications that showcase the colorful layouts of large magazines without the actual paper. Environmentally friendly, easy to access, simple to use. Great idea.

So great, in fact, I'm looking into turning SLV for 2011 into a digital flipbook. Look for it this fall in addition to my Kindle version. The flipbook will be a great way to read my travel guide -- either on your computer, your iPad, or if you prefer, as an easy-to-print from PDF version. And don't worry, because it's digital, you won't have to wait for it on back order.

Viva,
Mike

Countdown!

2010-08-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

36 days. Seems like an eternity till my next Vegas vacation. I'm ready now! Pretty much all I have to do is pack. And that takes about 5 minutes. Maybe 7 if I remember socks.

That's the thing about my trips to Vegas. I just leave my life behind and escape. Don't get me wrong, I've got a pretty good life. But I have the need to get away every so often. Some people like the mountains for a vacation. Some like the beach. I like a city where I can play blackjack at 2 am and eat flapjacks at 10 pm. I like a place where I can forget what time it is for 3 or 4 days. Sleep? Occasionally. Eat, drink, and be... fat and drunk. Good times.

The way I see it, I can relax any ol' weekend. I can sleep in on a Saturday morning. I can go to bed early on a Saturday night. I can read on the back porch when I come home from work. When can I over-tip cocktail waitresses for my free drinks? When can I throw dice with a table full of screaming gamblers, all rooting for me to roll anything but a 7? Where else can I see someone walking the wrong way down Bally's escalator at 3 am? Vegas, baby.

Sometimes, ya just gotta shake the dust off and let yer hair down.

Viva,

Mike

Ho Hum Harrah's

2010-08-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Well, they've done it again. Harrah's took a perfectly good website, Planet Hollywood, and made it boring. Planet Hollywood's site used to be quite dynamic, colorful, energetic, and fun. Now, it looks a lot like Harrah's other sites. Here's the formula:

Links to other Harrah's properties at the top
Navigation to the left
Some (mostly static) content in the middle
Links to other Harrah's properties at the bottom

I really wish that they would leave well enough alone, even when they purchase a new property. Variety is the spice of life, so why make all the sites look alike? Especially if the look is not so great.

By contrast, take MGM's websites. Each one is marketed to a specific audience. Mandalay Bay is a little upscale, MGM Grand is young and hip, Excalibur is fun and inexpensive. Harrah's could learn a lot by taking a page out of MGM's website book.

I love driving around in Las Vegas and seeing various themes, playing in different casinos and enjoying a unique atmosphere. Their websites should be this way, too.

Viva,
Mike

Comopolitan Marquee - Getting Lit Up

2010-08-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

The Cosmo unveiled its giant marquee today. Check out pictures of the new sign on Cosmo's Flickr page.

The property is set to open December 15th of this year, and it resides next to Bellagio and practically on top of Jockey Club. This joint looks to be pretty exclusive, with gaming cabanas, three pools, a spa, and of course a club.

I'm looking forward to visiting this casino. I love when a new Vegas venue opens, even if it is out of my price range. It's fun to walk through and check out the digs. Sometimes I'll even sit down and play some blackjack, as long as it isn't too expensive.

I remember when the Wynn first opened, I sat down and played $10 blackjack in cut off jean shorts and a t-shirt. Yeah, I was a little younger then. I wondered if the pit boss or floor manager would say something to me, but my money is just as green as everyone else's, so they didn't say a thing. Of course, it helped that I was losing.

There are plenty of good places to play blackjack, so I don't find it necessary anymore to try out new places if the minimums are above what I want. Still, I'm sure I'll visit Cosmo, check it out, take some pictures, and maybe even get lit up at one of their bars. After all, that is quite an enticing sign!

Viva,
Mike

Q & A with John Wilson

2010-07-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

My friend and fellow blogger John Wilson just returned from Las Vegas with his wife and five month old baby. John’s been to Vegas before, and like me he’s quite the Vegas nut, but this was a little different because it was his first trip with his baby. I sat down with him and asked him about his vacation.

SLV: So, John, you just returned from Vegas with your family. Your posts on whereisjohnwilson.com about traveling to Vegas are really fun and informative. What was the biggest difference for you with a five month old versus traveling without a baby?

JW: About $1,000 not put into a slot machine. In all seriousness, going to Las Vegas with my wife and our new baby was a great deal of fun. It’s a completely different experience, however, than many of your readers may be used to. I spent almost zero time gaming and tons more time resting, sightseeing and taking pictures.

Some highlights of our trip include going to Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon and some sights from TV shows such as The Ultimate Fighter, the World Series of Poker and Pawn Stars.

I think it’s a great place to vacation if you go in knowing it will be different.

SLV: It must have been time-consuming getting from point A to point B. I know you rented a car. What do you think about renting a car in Vegas vs. public transportation?

JW: Renting a car is a great idea unless you’re only staying for a weekend of debauchery. Any more than casino hopping on the South end of the strip would best be served with an automobile. If you add up all the inconvenience of the monorail and the high costs of cabs and include the missed opportunities to visit the locations above, it’s well worth the time and money to get a car.

I have some tips over at the site for getting the best use of your car and some hints for getting around.

SLV: I know you usually stay close to the Strip. But for this trip, you stretched your Vegas legs and went further out than usual. What was that like, and what was your favorite non-Strip excursion?

JW: We stayed at the Hilton Grand Vacations just behind the Sahara. It was a great alternative with the baby. The hotel had its own swimming pool, outdoor bar, grocery store with cold sandwiches and it was only 30 yards from the Hilton Las Vegas. Though we had a car, the monorail station at the Hilton would have been incredibly handy.

The problem with the North end of the strip, as commented in your most recent post, is its relative “deadness” compared to its brethren to the South. My take on the issue with this end of the Strip is the distance between hotels. It’s a long walk with not much to look at between. Even though it takes forever to walk from the Bellagio, past Caesars to the Mirage, there are ton of people, things and shenanigans to keep you interested. North of Encore, it’s pretty sleepy til you get to the Sahara.

I think you nailed it about the Sahara’s secret to longevity. I consider myself a pretty decent poker player. I get pot and implied odds, I play tight aggressive, etc – and I always play at the Sahara. There are some very nice poker rooms all over the Strip – but the 2/4 Limit HE at Sahara is always full of very nice tourists acting as calling-station ATMs. The strong drinks, $1 blackjack and $3 roulette keep the place full.

SLV: It was pretty danged hot when you were in Vegas. What were some of the ways you beat the heat?

JW: Because of our son, we took LOTS of naps. One piece of advice for folks taking their family traveling from the East Coast is to never bother getting off of Eastern Standard Time. We did more before 9am (and before it was 300 degrees) than most people do all day. All of the casinos are open, no one is getting in your way (or grabbing your baby’s cheeks) and there are virtually no lines.

The weather while we were there stayed around 104 most of the time, with 0% humidity. Living in South Carolina, I thought 104 with no humidity was a cool day. We walked around for hours and never worked up a sweat. We always had tons of extra water to keep us all cool throughout the day.

Thanks John... I'm sure you're already looking forward to your next trip to Vegas.
Viva,
Mike

Las Vegas Hilton - What's Next?

2010-07-25T08:03:00.001-07:00

There are some changes to the lineup of shows at the Las Vegas Hilton. Namely, Voices and Sin City Bad Girls are out. This is not a huge surprise. The Hilton has been shopping for an identity for a while. Barry Manilow left to go to Paris earlier this year. So they have been trying to usher in new shows and capture a younger, hipper crowd from the Strip. This might prove difficult.

The Hilton is just far enough off the Strip that it's going to take some nifty advertising to get the usual Strip crowd over there. Think of it this way: if I'm staying at TI or Caesars, and I have all of these great clubs, restaurants, casinos, and shows within walking distance, why would I want to go to the Hilton? If I'm booking a trip to Vegas, why would I stay there?

They basically have two options to try to draw people away from mid-Strip: price or unique atmosphere. Because Las Vegas is suffering from a down economy, the Hilton probably won't attract people based on price. Places like the Flamingo or the Imperial Palace will be able to match them and maybe beat them. As far as a unique experience, that's also a tough sell when the Strip continually ups the ante with more fun and excitement than you can shake a stick at.

So the Hilton seems to be in the same limbo as many North Strip hotels. The Riviera filed for bankruptcy earlier this month. The Stardust is gone. The Frontier is gone.

Now there are exceptions. The Sahara is holding on, but they have a few things going for them. One, they are on the Monorail path. Two, they have good gambling promotions (dollar blackjack, affordable poker, etc.). Circus Circus is part of MGM, and they have the whole circus thing going on, so they are different.

But what's to become of these properties? I don't know. If I had to venture a guess, I'd say that some will be purchased, possibly razed, and re-opened as new, hip casinos to look like their mid-Strip counterparts. Here's the thing that baffles me. It doesn't have to be this way. These properties north of Sahara Avenue could be a haven for the average Joe and Jane traveler to Vegas. Here's how I think it could work for them:

Use the Sahara as a model and offer inexpensive gaming with good rules. You'll beat Harrah's properties every time.
Don't try to beat mid-Strip properties at their own game. You're not about clubs, fancy-pants restaurants, and giant suites. You're about affordable rooms, good gaming, fun, and Las Vegas class. Bring back some old Vegas because people still want to see that. Nostalgia is a powerful drug, even for people who didn't experience it the first time around.
Join forces. This worked for downtown when they built the Fremont Street Experience. It could work for you, too. Put your heads together and offer something that nobody else has.

The first two times I visited Las Vegas, I stayed at the Riviera and the Hilton, respectively. I had so much fun that I continued to return to Las Vegas. Going on 18 years now, as a matter of fact. I stay at different places these days, depending on deals, who I'm going with, and so on. I would love to see these properties return to their former glory. Or even a new glory.

As dealers say to me when they push the chips to me, good luck!

Viva,

Mike

Downtown Las Vegas - Hip, a trip, or a blip?

2010-07-18T13:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

Trends come and go. One thing is constant in Vegas - change. Twenty years ago, it was the Mirage and the themed resorts. Mom and dad brought the kids, and casinos built theme parks. Then casino execs figured out that Junior couldn't gamble. Down went the theme parks, and up went the upscale joints. Wynn, Palazzo, Encore. Then, condos. That was the wave of the future. But, the economic downturn hit, and everyone stopped building.

In the mean time, there's downtown Las Vegas. A quirky "what do we do with this" kind of place. It's not on the same level as the Strip in terms of upscale adventures, but it's also not down in the dumps. There are some great properties here, including the Golden Nugget, but visitors just don't seem to know what to do with it.

Here's what I've been saying for years... downtown just needs a fresh coat of paint, a few promotions, and a little love. It's like Charlie Brown's Christmas tree - give it a little attention, and it will grow.

Especially now. Look at all of the stalled projects on the Strip. There's no better time to show visitors that 1) this is a great place to gamble/stay/play and 2) it won't cost you an arm and a leg... like some places.

I've pointed this out before with support from other publications. Here's a snippet from Vegas Today and Tomorrow, a good barometer for Vegas projects:

"Even though there's an economic slowdown, the downtown area is becoming a sustainable, modern, urban city. Transportation projects, public facilities, high-rise condo and loft residences are being built among new markets, galleries, shops, clubs and bistros. Yes, Downtown Vegas is becoming hip and livable."

Yep. Downtown has a lot of potential. Best wishes and keep up the good work. Let's see what happens next.

Viva,
Mike

Preparation and Pacing in Vegas

2010-07-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas fans,

When I go to Vegas, I always pack light, but one of the things I take with me is a ziploc bag with a few vitamins, some ibuprofen and antacids. I'm going to add theraflu and zicam to that list. Why? Well, it seems that when I get to Vegas, I tend to hit the town pretty hard. I like to hit the tables right away, which means I start having a few drinks right away. Then I get hungry and eat too much.

My everyday system is not used to this, so it tends to break down a bit. That's why I hit the vitamins, ibuprofen and antacids. But, I press on the next day, doing the same thing over again (I am a bit hard-headed). By the time I've been in Vegas for a few days, I sometimes catch a cold. Or as my friend Meg says, a touch of "the Irish flu." That's why I'll be packing theraflu and zicam from now on. It's no fun being in Vegas with a sore throat and head cold. Medication usually masks the symptoms, but that's all I really care about. I need some masking for a while to fend off the illness until I get home. Then when I get home, I can call in sick for a day or two to really rest.

As much as I tell myself that next time I will pace myself in Vegas, the truth is I'm so excited when I get there that it's hard to do. So, at the very least I can prepare and take care of myself if I happen to take in too much of the good life in Vegas all at once.

Viva,
Mike

Here Begins Something New

2010-07-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Vegas Fans,

Starting today, you'll see a new feature on the Simplifying Las Vegas website. It's called the Vegas Reflection. The VR will be a news item, a quote, an image, something from a reader, or another cool tidbit.

I hope you enjoy it! If you have something you'd like to include in the VR, please email me.

Viva,
Mike