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
Showing posts with label electronic readers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label electronic readers. Show all posts
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
400 and Counting
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
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
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Kindle Fire
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
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
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Coming Soon: Simplifying Las Vegas 2012
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
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
Sunday, March 20, 2011
eBooks and Apps
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
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
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
You Pad, We Pad, All Vegas Fans Can iPad!
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
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
Saturday, January 29, 2011
E-Book Readers
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
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:
- http://ebook-reader-review.toptenreviews.com/
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_e-book_readers
- http://news.cnet.com/kindle-vs-nook-vs-ipad-which-e-book-reader-should-you-buy
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
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
A Few Words About My Book
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
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
Friday, December 31, 2010
2010 Vegas Year in Review
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:
Here's wishing you a happy, healthy, prosperous 2011!
Viva,
Mike
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!
Here's wishing you a happy, healthy, prosperous 2011!
Viva,
Mike
Monday, December 27, 2010
Relax and Enjoy
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
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
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Electronic Holiday Gifts
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
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Simplifying Las Vegas 2011 - A Travel Guide for Everyone
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
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:
- Kindle
- Nook
- Flipbook (Adobe Flash required)
- PDF with personalized itinerary
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
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween!
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
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
Monday, October 11, 2010
Simplifying Las Vegas Now Available on Nook
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
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
Sunday, October 10, 2010
New Las Vegas Travel Guide Electronic Book Venue
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
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
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Vegas Online
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
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
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
News n' Notes
Hi Vegas Fanatics,
A few quick notes. I can't stay long because I'm working hard on a new and improved website. So I guess that's the biggest news item I have this week! It's really coming along, and as long as I can figure out how to switch over my domain, it should be ready in about 2 weeks. I hope
I also wanted to mention that I have a new poll and have received a few votes. Be sure to check it out. Don't forget to leave a comment or email me if you want a chance to win a free t-shirt.
And, the Flickr group continues to grow. There are new pictures every day (over 4,000 of 'em), and there are 350 members!
Thanks for your continue support... I really enjoy writing about Vegas and building the site. Don't forget that you can purchase a copy of SLV either via PDF or download a copy to your Kindle.
Viva,
Mike
A few quick notes. I can't stay long because I'm working hard on a new and improved website. So I guess that's the biggest news item I have this week! It's really coming along, and as long as I can figure out how to switch over my domain, it should be ready in about 2 weeks. I hope
I also wanted to mention that I have a new poll and have received a few votes. Be sure to check it out. Don't forget to leave a comment or email me if you want a chance to win a free t-shirt.
And, the Flickr group continues to grow. There are new pictures every day (over 4,000 of 'em), and there are 350 members!
Thanks for your continue support... I really enjoy writing about Vegas and building the site. Don't forget that you can purchase a copy of SLV either via PDF or download a copy to your Kindle.
Viva,
Mike
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Who You Callin' a Planet Ho? and Other Random Topics...
Hi Vegas Fans,
A few notes from the Las Vegas Advisor:
Harrah's purchased Planet Hollywood, and the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) approved it. A personal request to the powers that be at Harrah's: please don't screw it up! I have an impending sense of boredom already and you haven't even turned it into a ho-hum property yet.
McCarran Airport may be applying for a liquor license to help increase revenue for its owner, the Clark County Commission. It would be the only airport in the US with a liquor store. My thoughts: Liquor? By the baggage claim? It would help when you have to wait for your bag, which is always the last one on that rotating carousel of lost souls. Actually, the liquor would be for "offsite" consumption only. Still, this is a great idea!
Other news:
Kindle is going berry. Blackberry, that is. Probably feeling pressure from the iPad, Kindle now has a free app for the Blackberry. This is a smart move for them, and good news for those of us who publish on Kindle (think of the increased distribution!).
I hope a lot of people take advantage of this free app - it's the perfect fit for travelers who need information at their fingertips. Let's say you're at the Strat playing $5 Blackjack and you want to know what time the next Bellagio fountain show starts. Simply look it up on Simplifying Las Vegas. Then, look up the phone number to Olive's and call them for a reservation for a yummy dinner after you watch the fountains. All on your Blackberry.
Think about it the next time you... Go to Vegas. It's that Simple.
Viva,
Mike
Saturday, January 30, 2010
iPad: A Perfect Tool for a Vegas Travel Guide
Hi Vegas fans,
Wednesday, Steve Jobs showed us a demonstration of his newest toy: the iPad. The iPad will include iBooks, Apple's version of electronic books. Currently, there are only a handful of publishers that will have books available on the iPad.
Here's a request from me directly to Apple. Please, allow self-publishers to create dynamic books in the same manner you invite developers to create apps. This only makes sense. The iPad has incredible maps and, of course, all the advantages that the world wide wonderful has to offer.
So, why limit iBooks to a two-dimensional, black-and-white copy on a page? Kindle already does this. And while I love Kindle (and by the way I'm keeping mine and I will continue to publish my book via Amazon), it does have a few drawbacks for a book like mine.
Any travel guide should be interactive and serve two purposes. First, it should help people shop for and prepare for a vacation. Second, it should show travelers what they can do once they arrive. So, a useful travel guide will be one that people read before they go on vacation and one that they will use when they get there as a reference. In both cases, a Kindle or an iPad are great gadgets for fulfilling these needs because of their portability. However, the iPad can really shine in this arena.
Think about it this way. Suppose you have never been to Las Vegas. You read Simplifying Las Vegas on your iPad, and you see the street-level view of the Bellagio fountains. Then you tap on a link that takes you to a YouTube video of them. You decide that this is really a cool place and you think you want to stay there, but you want a comparison with other hotels. You look at a Hotels table, and swipe your hand and across a "Price" column to see how the Bellagio stacks up against other hotels. When you're ready to book, you either tap on a link that takes you directly to their booking site, or you select another link that takes you to package deals where you can book your flight and rental car.
It's all right there, and it's interactive. That is what travel books will become, and the sooner iBooks and the iPad support us travel nuts who are ready to develop and write these books, the better. So, Mr. Jobs, I'm here and I'm ready. You can call me any time. Or just visit my website. 8)
Viva,
Mike
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Wonderful World of Electronic Books
Hi Vegas fans,
The New York Times captured all the buzz from this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES). As expeceted, ebook readers were very hot.
One of the reasons these little wonders are all the rage is because Apple is going to announce in a few weeks that they will throw their hats in the ring (it will either be just an ebook reader or a tablet, depending on which rumor mill you follow). Apple tends to dominate the market when they enter it (think iPod, iPhone), so this could certainly change the game.
Or at least the number of players.
Here's a pretty comprehensive summary of what's out there right now:
That's a lot of ebook readers. And they're expensive. So, if Apple's entry price is high, people may stick with their Kindles and Sonys. For now. I mean, who would spend $500 after laying down $250 or more for a reader? It's not like the iPod or iPhone coming out party, because people either didn't have those devices or had ones that they didn't spend a lot of money on (or didn't mind buying a new one).
Personally, I'm sticking with my Kindle for now. And not because my book is on Kindle. I am actively looking for other readers for my book (Nook, for one, but the kind folks at Barnes & Noble have not answered my emails yet). I just don't need a tablet or a new eBook reader. Kindle does a great job, and Amazon's bookstore has a ton of great books and makes it very easy to search, evaluate, and purchase a book.
Who knows what will happen once Apple makes its announcement. I feel confident that this will be a great time for consumers. I'm always happy when companies start competing this fiercely over products - let them sweat a little so the average Joe can have more choices.
And, no, traditional books are not dead. I think there will always be a market for them. However, I think there's also room for e-books. When I wrote my book, I knew that an electronic version was just a natural fit because I wanted to include a lot of links to other sections and Web sites. Plus the portable nature of the Kindle makes it easy to bring to Vegas with you. Throw in search capabilities and you have a match made in Heaven.
The players may change, but the ebook game is on. Let's hope the consumer wins.
Viva,
Mike
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