As visitation and revenue continue to rise in Las Vegas, I expect hotel prices, food, entertainment, etc. to go up as well. However, that doesn't mean that you should avoid a trip, regardless of your budget. Here are my top 5 ways why you can still enjoy a sensational Sin City vacation.
- Shop early for your trip. Whether you are searching for hotel + flight + more, or if you just need a place to rest your head at night, the sooner you book the better. I typically plan my trips 6 - 12 months ahead of time and get some great deals. And a window seat on the plane.
- Clip those coupons. Vegas is one of those cities where you can find discounts at every turn. Some of your coupon clipping will be virtual because the deals are online. But don't forget to check out the magazines and coupon books in your room, too. They often have a few hidden gems in them. Finally, check out the Las Vegas Advisor and consider a membership. For an online subscription, it's only $37, and you get a Palms 50% discount comp that can pretty much cover the cost of the membership, so it's worth it.
- Check out Tix 4 Tonight. You can get 1/2 off shows and restaurants. I know what you're thinking... crummy shows and diner dives, right? Nope! Good stuff, like Cirque du Soleil and Spago. You have to check out the daily list, so plan to get to one of their many Strip/downtown locations early.
- Avoid cabs, if you can. I'm a big proponent of renting a car in Las Vegas. It's inexpensive, gives me plenty of freedom, and I don't have to wait in line with 20,000 other people waiting for a cab outside of a crowded casino.
- Relax. This is the hardest one for me. I like to go, go, go when I'm in Vegas. The problem is that I get tired (especially as I get older - gasp!) and then I tend to make bad decisions. For example, I'll spend more money at the tables when I'm tired. I know people who will just buy something when they are tired because they don't want to check out bargains at other stores. You have to pace yourself, and don't forget that the pool, people watching, and the free shows at the hotels (like the Bellagio fountains, bird sanctuary at Flamingo, and the Mirage volcano) are excellent ways to stop and smell the roses.
Viva,
Mike
