Britsih Airways to start direct London – Las Vegas service

It seems that Virgin Atlantic is soon to lose its exclusive direct route from the the UK to Las Vegas which it has been enjoying since BMI stopped its direct flights from Manchester in April and since MaxJet went under Xmas 2007.British Airways are about to annouce that they to will be flying daily from London to Las VegasI have to be honest my preferred route is LHR to LAS with United Airlines via either SFO or LAX but lets hope that this competition can do something to shrink the fares and offer us even better value, to match the best value Las Vegas hotel rooms that can be found here.

Officials for the carrier are scheduled to announce a new direct daily service between McCarran International Airport and London’s Heathrow Airport, the busiest international airport in the world. The service, scheduled to begin in October, has been in the works for years and the decision by British Airways to proceed despite the global recession is a major vote of confidence in the future of Las Vegas, which has been hit particularly hard by the economic downturn.

The plan is for daily service to begin Oct. 25, with a flight arriving in Las Vegas at 5:10 p.m. The return trip to London will depart at 7 p.m., Lampl said. The airline will use a Boeing 777 configured with 274 seats, 24 of which will be “world traveler plus,” 36 business-class with seats that recline fully to 180 degrees and 214 economy class. Lampl said the company identified 35 major cities, including Rome; Prague, Czech Republic; Stockholm, Sweden; and Paris, from which travelers could connect to Las Vegas with less than two hours waiting at Heathrow.

If British Airways flies the route at 72 percent load factor, the average load factor for the airline in the most recent reporting period, it would mean about 12,000 arrivals and departures at McCarran a month. The number could be higher if British Airways matches the 92 percent load factor Virgin Atlantic achieves on its route from a smaller airport with less connection potential. Great Britain is the No. 3 provider of foreign tourists to Las Vegas behind Canada and Mexico, according to the LVCVA.

Source http://www.lasvegassun.com

Heavily disounted Las Vegas hotel rooms

Shooting Safaris Las Vegas

Shooting is somthing that we can not really do in the UK at least not with live ammo, I love shooting and usually pop in to the Gun Store, Tom Koch emailed to tell me about his great looking range outside of Las Vegas. I have not been on this but the length of range and the fact that the groups are very small and that it is outside looks very exciting to me. The range of guns very different and creating a unique shooting experience. Anayway Tom has written a few works about this, listed below….

Shooting Safaris is your Las Vegas outdoor shooting destination. Why shoot outdoors?
It allows greater distances, more interesting targets, black powder ammo and better
photography. And s hooting shotguns at clay birds can be added to any shooting
program. Four different shooting programs are available. The Shooting Through
History program features 17 firearms from US History ranging from a flintlock rifle
to wild west guns to modern weapons including a sniper rifle and the 460 revolver. I
don’t rush people through to get to the next customers. I enjoy explaining how
things work and the best way to handle a firearm. The range is located between Las
Vegas and the Hoover Dam. Check out www.shootingsafaris.com or call Tom at
702-283-3812 for more information.

Day Trip from Las Vegas to the Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is only 35 miles South East of Las Vegas and half a day is plenty enough time for a trip. The actual tour of the Dam unless you are a real engineering geek you may well find as boring as hell, engineering freak or not the Dam is well worth a Dam Visit 😉

We left Vegas at about 8am and drove straight out on US93 heading for the Hacienda which is the closest Casino to the Dam, we always stop here either en-route to Dam, Laughlin or on the way back from the Grand Canyon. We had the buffet breakfast its good not great but cheep and filling and then as per usual fall for the trick that the hope you fall for and stick a few dollars in the slots and some of these still use coin so it’s a real old time treat. AS we came out of the Casino we saw a sign saying Helicopter rides from $29, we thought that this would be a nice treat and seemed a good price. When we investigated of course just like everything in Vegas its not really $29 for what you want, the $29 flight only went over Lake Mead to fly over the Hoover Dam was $59 each but we could have the helicopter exclusively, we decided that this was worthwhile so after being weighed and asked if we had any weapons a car took us up a steep hill to get aboard the Helicopter. We both sat in the back and up we went, it was a very unnerving feeling and we seemed to do some “blue thunder” manoeuvres between an electricity pylon and the mountain as we swooped past the new bridge that they are building and on towards the Dam. The view was great we flew over the Dam and then after a another couple of combat loop the loop type manoeuvres we were over lake Mead and on our way back, about 6 minutes after taking off we were safely back on the ground. For me this was one of the highlights of our trip I loved it and it was worth every penny, although I was not completely happy when in the chopper it was going through my mind whether to go on it again 😉

We drove on to the Dam which was only about 15 minutes including the security check and then parked in the car park at the Visitors centre which is just the Vegas side of the Dam. It is $7 to park here and well worth it sure there are a few lay bys on the Arizona side of the Dam but it is hit and miss if you can get a place and also it can become a fair walk to the Dam and gift shop etc. The gift shop is well stocked and reasonably priced but the café I thought was quite expensive and the food not so good, we were pleased we had filled up at the Hacienda.

I think that we spent about 2 hours or so at the Dam this included walking over it and back taking a stack of photos and having a good look round the gift shop and taking a coffee. It’s a good day and the size is something that can not really be realised from photos or the television and I think that it’s worth the investment of ½ a “Vegas” day.

When we had finished at the Dam we carried on to Laughlin for the rest of the day and got back to Vegas about 10pm.

Best Las Vegas rates for Hatton -v- Pacquiao May 2nd MGM Grand

 

Many of the offers on some of my older posts are out of date so I have decided to replace all of them with in date offers listed below, all of these offers are available for everyone they are booked directly with the hotel’s giving you not only cast iron security but also the best possible rate as the middleman is cut out, unless stated on the booking page all are 100% changeable and refundable with no penalty and you only pay the first night as a deposit upfront. These are all the very best deals that can be found anywhere on the internet. All updated offers are also posted here and this is regually updated

Have fun – Simon

MGM Grand Summer Splash from $69
* $35 Dining credit
* 2 for 1 Grand Spa passes
* 2 complimentary MGM Grand poolside cocktails
* $25 Free slot play
Promotion Runs April 17, 2009 – October 10, 2009
Offer Expires October 10, 2009

 MGM Grand NFR Exclusive! from $70
Eat all day pass for 2 at MGM Grand Buffet
2 Free cocktails at any of the 4 main bars
Complimentary NFR program
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – December, 28 2010
Offer Expires December 28, 2010

MGM Grand Maximum Escape from $74
·$35 Activity Credit (per stay)
·2 Line passes to Studio 54 or Tabu
·25% off Spa Services
Promotion Runs April 11, 2009 – May

Mandalay bay All Inclusive Package from $99
The Everything under the Sun Package
Rates from $99 plus tax, per person, per night** (minimum double occupancy)
Unlimited drinks at the beach (domestic beer, wine and well)
Unlimited free dining
Promotion Runs June 16, 2009 – July 30, 2009
Offer Expires July 30, 2009

Mandalay Bay Summer Escape $99
Fly Back Free Certificate ($350 value)
$100 Cabana Credit**
$25 Sand Dollars (credit to be used at the beach)
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – September 10, 2009
Offer Expires September 10, 2009

Mirage Bonus Offer from $85
Enjoy a $50 Cravings Buffet Credit during your stay.
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – February 28, 2010
Offer Expires April 30, 2010

Mirage Website Offer from $77
Join us at The Mirage and enjoy discounted rates on our newly remodeled rooms.
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – April 30, 2010
Offer Expires April 30, 2010

Luxor COLLEGE SUMMER OFFER from $50
Start the fun early and enjoy this spring and summer at Luxor!
$50 OFF Cabana Rental*
VIP Passes to LAX and Cathouse*
Two Minimum night stay required*
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – September 3, 2009
Offer Expires September 3, 2009

Luxor Luxury Getaway from $65
One $30.00 Food Dining Credit for Tender Steak and Seafood Restaurant*
One $20.00 Spa Credit for Nurture Spa services*
One 2 for 1 admission to Nurture Spa at Luxor*
$10.00 in Free Slot Play for New Player Club Members.*
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – February 28, 2010
Offer Expires February 26, 2010

Luxor All Inclusive Package $210 including weekends !!!!
All You Can Eat, All Day, Every Day at MORE, the Buffet*
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Champagne Brunch included)
Two tickets to CRISS ANGEL Believe™
Two tickets to Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition*
Two tickets to Bodies…The Exhibition*
Two Nurture Spa Day Passes*
Two VIP admissions to LAX (Wednesday through Saturday evenings)*
Two VIP admissions to CatHouse (Club closed on Tuesday evenings)*
Room check-in at VIP Lounge
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – December 31, 2009
Offer Expires December 26, 2009

Luxor Expect the Unexpected from $50
One $25.00 Food and Beverage Credit – valid for Pyramid Café,
MORE the Buffet at Luxor or Tender Steak and Seafood (based on availability)*
One $10.00 Beverage Credit – valid for use in Aurora, Flight, Liquidity or the Playbar*
One $25.00 Nurture Spa Credit towards any spa treatment*
$10.00 in Free Slot Play (for first time Players Club members only)*
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – February 28, 2010
Offer Expires February 25, 2010

Luxor Buy 2, Get 1 Free from $55
Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night free on select dates in November, and December.
Promotion Runs November 22, 2009 – December 28, 2009
Offer Expires December 27, 2009

Luxor Golf Getaway from $50
On select dates enjoy the links and treat yourself to:
• Free Rental of Callaway Golf Clubs* ($50.00-$75.00 value)
• $25.00 off golf rack rate at the following golf courses:
Desert Pines and Royal Links*
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – February 28, 2010
Offer Expires February 28, 2010

Monte Carlo JUMPSTART JUNE from $50
Reserve a Deluxe room or a High Floor Deluxe room you will receive a $25 Food and Beverage Credit .
Reserve a Strip View Deluxe room you will receive a $50 Food and Beverage credit.
This offer is available for a limited time only, so book your reservations today.
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – July 2, 2009
Offer Expires June 30, 2009

Monte carlo VEGAS SUMMER ESCAPE from $55
2-for-1 Buffet at Monte Carlo
2-for-1 Il Fornaio Breakfast at NYNY
2-for-1 Drinks at BRAND Steakhouse inside Monte Carlo
2-for-1 ROK Vegas™ Nightclub Admission at NYNY
2-for-1 Roller Coaster passes at NYNY
2-for-1 Spa admission at Monte Carlo
2-for-1 Lance Burton tickets at Monte Carlo
35% off Zumanity™ tickets at NYNY
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – September 13, 2009
Offer Expires September 13, 200

NYNY Summer Escape from $55
Vegas Summer Escape. Two Hot Spots. One Cool Party.
2 for 1 Buffet at Monte Carlo
2 for 1 Breakfast at Il Fornaio at New York New York
2 for 1 Drinks at BRAND Steakhouse at Monte Carlo
2 for 1 ROK Admissions at New York New York
2 for 1 Roller Coaster at New York New York
35% off Zumanity tickets
2 for 1 Spa Admission at Monte Carlo
2 for 1 Lance Burton Tickets at Monte Carlo
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – September 13, 2009
Offer Expires September 13, 2009

NYNY $100 CITY PASS from $60 per night
Park Avenue Strip View Upgrade
2 Complimentary Welcome Cocktails
$25 Retail Credit
2 for 1 Complimentary Il Fornaio Breakfast
2 for 1 Complimentary Spa Admission
2 for 1 Complimentary Roller Coaster
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – August 31, 2009
Offer Expires December 29, 2009

NYNY COUPLES PACKAGE From $60
Las Vegas Evening Tour for 2 for only $61.95 ($120 value)
Park Avenue Strip View Upgrade
2 Complimentary Welcome Cocktails
$25 Retail Credit
2 for 1 Complimentary Il Fornaio Breakfast
2 for 1 Complimentary Spa Admission
2 for 1 Complimentary Roller Coaster
Food: Includes a light snack
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – December 29, 2009
Offer Expires December 29, 2009

NYNY SPA SUITE SPECIAL from $110
Upgrade from Skyline to a Spa Suite for only $50 additional per night.
Upgrade from Park Avenue to a Spa Suite for only $40 additional per night.
Upgrade from a Broadway to a Spa Suite for only $30 additional per night.
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – July 22, 2009
Offer Expires July 31, 2009

NYNY PLAYCATION from $60
Park Avenue Strip View Upgrade
2 Complimentary Welcome Cocktails
$25 Retail Credit
2-for-1 Il Fornaio Breakfast
2-for-1 Spa Admission
2-for-1 Roller Coaster
Complimentary ROK Admission
$10 FREEPLAY®
Discount offers from Town Square
2 $10 Game Card Vouchers to ESPNZone
Royal Links Golf Club Offers.
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – December 27, 2009
Offer Expires December 30, 2009

EXCalibur OUR BEST RATES! from $36
Book our best rates and you will receive:
TWO-FOR-ONE TICKETS TO THE TOURNAMENT OF KINGS DINNER SHOW.
20% OFF OF ANY SPA TREATMENT
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – December 28, 2009
Offer Expires December 28, 2009

Excalibur Stay and Play from $40
Offer includes:
$25 DINING CREDIT
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – March 31, 2010
Offer Expires March 31, 2010

Excalibur Bachelorette Party!from $81
$50 BEVERAGE CREDIT
2-For-1 TICKETS TO THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER (EXCLUDES VIP TICKETS)
VIP ADMISSION TO LAX NIGHTCLUB AT LUXOR
$50 IN PARTY PIT GAMING CHIPS FOR $40
10% DISCOUNT ON FULL-DAY CABANA RENTAL MON – FRI.
A FREE THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER POSTER
EXTRA PERSONS IN THE SAME ROOM STAY FOR FREE UP TO A MAXIMUM OF FOUR
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – March 31, 2010
Offer Expires March 31, 2010

Excalibur Bachelor Party! from $81
$50 BEVERAGE CREDIT
$10 OF TICKETS TO FANTASY AT LUXOR
VIP ADMISSION TO LAX NIGHTCLUB AT LUXOR
$50 IN PARTY PIT GAMING CHIPS FOR $40
10% DISCOUNT OF FULL-DAY CABANA RENTAL MON – FRI.
EXTRA GUESTS IN THE ROOM STAY FOR FREE UP TO A MAXIMUM OF FOUR**
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – March 31, 2010
Offer Expires March 31, 2010

Excalibur Family Package! from $54
2-FOR-1 tickets for Tournament of Kings dinner show
2-FOR-1 tickets to Adventuredome at Circus-Circus
2-FOR-1 tickets to our Magic Motion $-D movie ride
10 Free Play passes at the Fantasy Faire midway
20% Off on Bodies, the Exhibition at Luxor
20% off Titanic, the Exhibition at Luxor
Buy one, get the second admission for 50% to Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay
Additional guests in the same room stay free up to a maximum of four. **
Promotion Runs June 13, 2009 – March 31, 2010
Offer Expires March 31, 2010

MGM Signature Romance Package
Suites from $149.
half dozen chocolate covered strawberries
a bottle of champagne
omantic rose petal turn down service.
Promotion Runs February 21, 2009 – December 30, 2009
Offer Expires December 31, 2009

MGM Signature Spring Fling 2009
Suites from $129. Package
$50 credit at Walter’s Golf
$50 resort credit toward dining, entertainment, the spa or nightlife.
Promotion Runs June 16, 2009 – June 30, 2009
Offer Expires June 29, 2009

MGM Signature Stay 3 nights! from $129
Stay 3 nights at the Signature and receive $75 resort credit!
Promotion Runs February 21, 2009 – December 30, 2009
Offer Expires December 31, 2009

MGM Signature Stay 5 nights!
Stay 5 nights at the Signature and receive $150 resort credit!
Promotion Runs February 21, 2009 – December 30, 2009
Offer Expires December 31, 2009

MGM Signature Stay 7 nights!
Stay 7 nights at the Signature and receive $300 resort credit!
Promotion Runs February 21, 2009 – December 30, 2009
Offer Expires December 31, 2009

MGM Skylofts Exclusive
Daily Continental In Room Breakfast for 2
Daily complimentary gym access for 2
$100 Spa Credit per stay
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – September 30, 2009
Offer Expires September 30, 2009

Circus Circus  FAMILY FUN PACKAGE from $42
Book today and receive over $150 in savings
Adventuredome at Circus Circus buy 1 All Day Ride Pass get 1 free (up to 2 free passes) $49.90 value
Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay buy 1 get 1 50% off (up to 4 discount passes) $16.96 value
The Roller Coaster at New York New York buy 1 ride get 2nd ride free (up to 1 free ride) $28 value
Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at Mirage buy 1 get 1 free (up to 2 free passes) $30 value
Tournament of Kings at Excalibur buy 1 get 1 free (up to 2 free tickets)
Bodies at Luxor 20% off (up to 4 tickets) $24.80
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition at Luxor 20% off (up to 4 tickets) $$21.60
Book early, this offer is sure to sell out fast.
Quantities are limited.
Promotion Runs June 14, 2009 – September 10, 2009
Offer Expires September 9, 2009

Circus Circus BIGGER BIG TOP PROMO from $27
SKYRISE & CASINO TOWER SPECIAL
Receive up to 15% off our already discounted room rates.
This offer is valid in our Casino and Skyrise Tower buildings.
West Tower and weekend rates are slightly higher if available.
Promotion Runs June 15, 2009 – September 6, 2009
Offer Expires September 6, 2009

Getting Married in Vegas – Las Vegas Photographers

Las Vegas Wedding Photographers

Most of the packages in both the Las Vegas Wedding Chapels and the Las Vegas Resort Chapels will include a photographer and some prints, some will give you a CD of digital photographs and others the film. If you wish to have additional professional photographs taken you can either arrange this with the Chapel or you can hire a photographer. The prices vary greatly but the least that you should expect to pay is around $1000. Here is a list of photographers in the Las Vegas area, most if not all offer a wedding service. Please be aware that unless otherwise stated we have no experience of these photographers nor of the quality or professionalism of either them or of their services. If you want your friends and family to take the photographs then this book will teach you “how to photograph a wedding”. It is intended to be bought by people setting up as professional wedding photographers and will show you all the tricks to take great wedding photos, it even comes with a 100% money back guarantee if you are not totally satisfied.

Jerry Swanson 368 Via Sonador HENDERSON , NV 89012 Phone: (702) 564-5844 www.swansonphotographs.comom/	Britt Pierson Photography 2620 S Maryland Pkwy, #212 , Las Vegas , NV 89109 Phone: 702-731-0069 www.brittpierson.com
BLR Photography Phone: (702) 325-3686 www.blrphoto.com	Picture Me In Vegas Specialty Las Vegas Weddings Phone: (702) 438 – 9400 Fax: (702) 437-1761 www.picturemeinvegas.com
A Picture Perfect Photography 2380 E. Patrick Lane Las Vegas, NV 89119 Telephone: (702) 436-5710	Allen Photographers, Inc. 3223 Industrial Rd. Las Vegas , NV 89109 Telephone: (702) 735-2222
Altenburg Studio 3017 South Decatur Blvd. Las Vegas , NV 89102 Telephone: (702) 252-7557	Loving Impressions Photography Las Vegas , Nevada Phone: 702-251-4800
Glen Douglas Photographer 1717 S Decatur Blvd Las Vegas , Nevada Phone: 702-878-3919	Bill Miller Photography 5425 S Eastern Ave Las Vegas , Nevada Phone: 702-798-5785
Jani Mae Photographers 1800 S Eastern Ave Las Vegas , Nevada Phone: 702-641-1800	A Advanced Photo & Video 3355 Spring Mountain Rd., #66 Las Vegas, NV 89102 Telephone: (702)220-8002
Taylormade Productions Live-event Videography Phone: 702-860-6203	Advanced Photographics 1692 Golden Horizon Dr. Las Vegas , NV 89123 Telephone: (702) 431-9206 or 800-950-9206
Andrew Cattoir Photographs 1649 Nevada Highway Boulder City , NV 89005 Telephone: (702) 293-6040	Jodi Lynn Studios, Inc. 101 S. Rainbow Blvd. Las Vegas , NV 89128 Telephone:(702) 259-8000
Kilby’s Video Productions 4699 Industrial Rd. Las Vegas , NV 89103 Telephone:(702) 253-1699	Life Touch National 5900 Smoke Ranch Rd. Las Vegas , NV 89108 Telephone:(702) 646-8750
Memories Photography 953 E. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas , NV 89104 Telephone:(702) 737-7060	Marc Anthony Productions 886 E. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas , NV 89104 Telephone:(702) 866-0798
Morgan’s Photography 727 S. 9th St. Las Vegas , NV 89101 Telephone:(702) 598-3636	New Image Photography 946 E. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas , NV89104 Telephone:(702) 894-9881
Andrea Waller Photographs 600 Bianca Bay St. Las Vegas , NV 89144 Telephone: (702) 387-1990	American Theme Weddings 390 W. Sahara Ave. Las Vegas , NV 89102 Telephone: (702) 671-0116

Self drive day trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

We had many friends out in Vegas for our wedding in September 2007 a few of us decided that we wanted to go to the Grand Canyon and as money was short the best way to do this was by car. I hired a 7 seater people carrier from Dollar which cost me £36 on a pre book including a tank of fuel a sat nav, all taxes and insurances for both myself and my Dad.

We picked the car up at 7.30am from MGM Grand and loaded everyone in it, myself, my bride to be, my brother in law, my mate and my elderly parents by time we got going it was about 0830. We headed out on the 95 and soon to the 93 we got to the Hoover Dam we stopped very briefly for photos and then headed on. We stopped for a healthy brunch of burger and chips somewhere on the Historic Route 66 in a sort of hardware come general store come cafe the food was good but the toilets were a little scary in a sort of deliverance way but not unclean, it may have been called the Roadkill Cafe. Slowly we boarded our trusty steed and carried on to the canyon.

We arrived at the gate and parted with our $25 that allowed unlimited entry for the next 7 days (useful NOT) and drove to Mather Point for our first view of the amazing natural wonder. We got back to the car as it started to rain and then the clouds opened we had thunder lighting and rain drops the size of golf balls we drove round to Yavapai Point I was the only one stupid enough to get out of the car I go drenched but managed to see the lightning coming down on the canyon this must for most people be a once in a life time experience. The rain stopped as abruptly as it started and the others came out to join me and had the joy to witness a most amazing rainbow stretched over the canyon. We got back to the car and drove to the Grand Canyon Village we parked up and sadly could not get a disabled parking space so had to park some way back but had another great view over the canyon, whilst we were viewing the canyon some kind souls in our group went into the bar at Bright Angel lodge and commandeered some tables. We had a few drinks and relaxed before heading back to Vegas.

We stopped to get some fuel and some candy bars and then headed back down the 93 night came upon us long before we were stopped at the Hoover Dam security and by this point the whole party was getting very hungry. We stopped at the Hacienda Casino just over the Dam on the Vegas side and saw the buffet was $7.49 when we went to pay it was half price $3.75 including soft drinks! What a bargain this was, there was a carvery section, pasta, Mexican, chicken, salads, and huge array of deserts, don’t get me wrong its not Bellagio but it was clean, fresh and tasty and I would most certainly head there again if in that part of the World. After eating we had a quick burn on the tables and slots and then headed back to Vegas we arrived back at about 11pm and after seeing my parents safely to their room us young uns hit the casinos.

It was a long day but a very good one on top of the car hire the divided costs for fuel and park entry were about $12 each the only thing I would say is that next time whatever car we took we would allow an extra space as it was a little cramped.

Getting Married in Vegas – Outside Wedding Venues

Other “Las Vegas” Wedding Venues

You can get married anywhere in Las Vegas ! You can hire a limo with the minister and the limo can stop outside the Bellagio fountains or the”Welcome to Las Vegas” sign the possibilities are endless. You can even get married in a helicopter whilst flying over the Las Vegas Strip. Outside of Las Vegas there are five famous beautiful natural areas where many people choose to get married, Lake Las Vegas , the Grand Canyon , Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire and Mount Charleston . Lake Las Vegas and Mount Charleston have hotels that offer anything from simple services to full wedding packages including receptions, at Lake Las Vegas you can even get married on a luxury yacht!

Lake Las Vegas Lake Las Vegas is 17 miles from the Strip but could be a world away. It’s a beautiful lake in the middle of the desert with a Tuscan styled village on its shores, golf greens to the waters edge and mountains in the background it is truly stunning. Lake Las Vegas plays host to a range of high class hotels, vacation homes,shops and restaurants and whilst it is beautiful there is a beautiful price tag attached. The Montelago Village offers wedding packages starting at $2700 for up to 20 guests these prices rise quickly and sharply. The other major resorts at Lake Las Vegas also offer wedding packages these are the super deluxe Ritz Carlton and Lowes Lake Las Vegas Resort

Red Rock Canyon 17 Miles west of the strip lies the beautiful Red Rock Canyon a beautiful National Park that looks like no other place I have ever seen on earth. Most of the chapels do packages to get married in Red Rock canyon generally starting at round around the $800 mark. You need a park permit needed to get married in Red Rock Canyon, this costs $180 and is usually included in the package costs but it would be wise to check. Its usually about 3 hours form when you leave your hotel to when you return if you go by limo and unless you hire a second limo you can generally only take 6 guests. Its worth remembering that the ceremony will be held outside in a beautiful setting but also remember that means no air con and no lights, its best to get married at sunrise or sunset. Remember that you will have been sitting for some time in the limo to get there which may mean you clothes get creased and your makeup and hair will have been done back at the hotel.

The Grand Canyon, anyone who has been to the Grand Canyon will not be able to explain well enough its beauty, awe and magic. It really is a place that you have to see to believe and when you do you will wonder if the other 6 of the 7 wonders of the World are as good as this. The majority of people who go to see The Grand Canyon go to the South Rim where there are a number of hotels and some of the best views across the canyon, this is a good four hour drive out of Vegas. If you are getting married in the Grand Canyon chances are that you will be flown out there in a helicopter the flight is wonderful but think about this when you are choosing what to wear as helicopters do not give you much room. Usually you will land in the canyon for your ceremony like Red Rock remember no air con and no toilets! You are also very limited in the number of guests that you can bring and you usually can’t hire a second helicopter to bring more people down. Most of the Chapels offer wedding ceremonies in the Grand Canyon and they tend start at around $2500.

Should I rent a Car in Vegas ? Tips on driving and renting cars in Las Vegas

Many people ask me whether it’s worth renting a car whilst in Las Vegas and I think that the answer depends on how long you are in Vegas and what you want to do on your trip. I mean if you are going for 2 nights and your plan is to drink and party until 8am then its pointless, if you are there for a week and want to see some sites then it probably is. Coming from the UK the shortest time I am ever going to stay in Vegas is 4 nights at least half a day of my trip will involve shopping. Being a person who does not want to spend one penny more than I have to on anything the majority of this will take place at the factory outlet stores which is some distance from the Strip and as I don’t like busses and are not so keen on cabs then car is the best option.

Only a short distance from Las Vegas are some amazing natural beauties which are only accessible by either car or organised tour, not only is going by car cheaper but it allows you to create your own itinerary and move at your own pace. A car is useful for going to visit downtown, or if you are staying at Luxor say and you fancy going to Wynn then again car is the best option. I always hire a car its not expensive and I know that even if its sitting in the car park that I can go where I want when I want, I like having that freedom. I generally book from www.dollar.co.uk this I have found to be the cheapest rate that includes all the necessary insurances for UK drivers, it’s worth looking at Expedia as they compare Hertz, Alamo. Budget and National this good for Americans and other nationals alike.

Driving in Vegas
Driving in Vegas is not easy for the US but it’s a positive breeze compared to London in rush hour. The Strip has between 3 and 5 lanes each way and you need to pay attention to the signs as it’s pretty easy to be in the wrong lane to the annoyance of other drivers. You also need to look out for pedestrians just stepping into the road and other drivers just pulling out, there is so much to see and to draw attention off of the road and this causes many accidents.

Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) is usually busy, at weekends it can be near gridlock to avoid this instead of driving down the Strip use Industrial Road which runs parallel West behind NYNY, Monte Carlo, Bellagio Mirage etc or Koval or Paradise that run parallel to the West behind MGM Grand, Ballys, Flamingo etc this will save you mountains of time.

Top driving and car rental tips for Las Vegas

1. We get a cab from the airport to the Hotel when we arrive and collect the car from a hotel desk the next morning and drop it back the night before we leave and get a cab back to the airport. The costs are slightly cheaper but more importantly its quicker to walk to the desk in the hotel to collect and drop the car back than mess around on the courtesy bus at airport and the lines are always longer are the airport

2. Unless you take a rate that includes a tank of gas always return it full otherwise the rental agency will charge you way above normal rate for gas.

3. Pre-book your car in Vegas, not only is this cheaper but they often run out of cars.

4. All of the casinos one the Las Vegas Strip offer free garage and valet parking, unless it’s a Friday or Saturday night use the Valet you need to tip them when they return your car $2-$5 is fair.

5. If you are travelling from outside the US pre book a rate that includes all of the insurances and taxes this will save you a lot of money. Generally US citizens personal auto insurance will cover them fully comp on a rental.

6. Unless specifically stated at a junction, if its clear you can turn right on a red light

7. Nevada is pretty relaxed but don’t drink and drive you will go to jail.

8. Pay attention, its easy not to as there is so much to see but there enough pedestrians not paying attention all ready so if drivers don’t as well there will be more injuries

Biggest Discount rates, MGM Grand, Mirage, Monte Carlo, Signature, Luxor,Las Vegas

Latest Offers click here

Beneath are the current best deals available for these stunning MGM Mirage las vegas hotels, all are direct with the hotels this cuts out the middleman enabling the hotels to give you the best rate, as its direct with the hotel unless stated on the booking page yuo can cancel with no penalty up to 48 hours prior to check in. I hope this can help sonmone get the best deal.

MGM Grand Summer Splash! Rates from $69/night, and it comes with;
Two Free Inner Tube Rentals
$35 activity credit toward dining or entertainment
15% off spa services
Runs: June 11, 2008 – September 30, 2008

Expires: September 1 2008

Mirage Fathers day Offer
Make the Mirage your perfect Father’s Day gift. Room rates starting at $79 per night Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. Starting at $119 per night Friday and Saturday

MGM Signature Summer Splash
* $25 Entertainment Credit
* 20% off spa treatment
* Continental breakfast for two at Delights
* Kids(10 and under) eat a free poolside meal with adult meal purchase (The Signature Poolside Grill)
* 20% off at The Signature Poolside Grill
June 5, 2008 – August 31, 2008 EXPIRES June 12th

Mirage “Tower Suite Offer” Rates from $168/nt. Join us at The Mirage and enjoy 30% off, on our luxurious accommodations on select dates . Apr 29 – Sep 10, 2008. Promo Code: RRTWR08 (Exp 9/12/08)

Luxor Luxury Getaway
These online rates reflect a $10 discount per night,
• One $30.00 Dining Credit good at Fusia our Asian inspired restaurant*
• One $20.00 Spa Credit for Nurture Spa services*
• One 2 for 1 admission to Nurture The Spa at Luxor*
• $10.00 in Free Slot Play for New Player Club Members.*
Runs June 5, 2008 – February 28, 2009 – Expires February 27, 2009

Monte Carlo SPECIAL OFFER
Receive Exclusive Low Rates!
Offer is non-refundable and may not be cancelled.
Two Night Minimum Stay.
Runs June 5, 2008 – July 31, 2008 Expires July 31, 2008

Circus Circus Las Vegas “Be Adventurous 2008” JUNE RATES fr $42nt (2 night minimum). Plus, $10 Resort Credit (apply towards food, beverage, retail, or room charges), 2 for 1 Dinner Buffet, 2 for 1 entree at Mexitalia Xpress, Free pitcher of Margaritas at the Garden Grill, $4 off The Adventuredome Theme Park and Free Fun Book ($100 Value). Feb 5 – Jun 30, 2008. Promo Code: BE07 (Exp 6/30/08)

Excalibur “30-DAY ADVANCE OFFER” SUMMER RATES FROM $61/nt. *Book early & receive $10 off our already low internet rates. (*Displayed rates already include discount. Offer is non-refundable & may not be canceled or changed. Total stay is charged at time of booking. Mar 13 – Nov 15, 2008. Promo Code:EBOOK (Expires 11/30/08)

Bellagio Summer 2008 Suite Offer
We invite you to experience Summer at Bellagio with this exclusive offer at our AAA Five Diamond resort casino. Suite rates starting from $299 per night.
Runs June 8, – September 18, Expires October 2, 2008

Monte Carlo SPLASH PROMOTION
Discover a Monte Carlo like you’ve never seen and enjoy:
$20 Dining Credit
$20 Spa Credit
Complimentary Golf Club Rental – some restrictions apply
2 Complimentary Spa Admissions
$10 slot FREE PLAY
Food Court Coupons
Runs:June 5 – September 12 Expires: September 12, 2008

Day Trips from Las Vegas, including the Grand Canyon and Death Valley

Leaving the excitement of the MGM Grand, Excalibur, Bellagio and Mirage etc is not always easy but sometimes it’s good to take a break from the Strip for a day or even just a few hours to get out and about and see some natural beauty. There are many places that are worth vesting easily within a day’s reach of Vegas and I have listed a few below. This is not meant to be an in depth guide the links to the parks will give you far more information than I could but hopefully this post may help you plan. Have a great trip – Simon

RED ROCK CANYON: Its about 20 miles west of Las Vegas out Charleston Blvd (you can pick up that street at the north end of the Strip) It’s a scenic drive-through park. Go early, not in the heat of the day; there’s no shade. The canyon did not have as much as we were hoping and apart from one main Red rock feature there was very little to make us want to go back. However one of my friends lives near by and says that if you leave the car in the car park and hike within an hour its spectacular, there us a an admission charge of $10, we did not pay as it was free on Christmas Day when we visited.

HOOVER DAM: Drive about 30 miles southeast of Vegas and go to Hoover Dam; the National Park Service offers tours there (@ $15.), though you can just park in the car park and walk over the Dam. Just before you get to the Dam there is a Casino called the Hacienda this offers great value food and is just the place for breakfast if you have left Vegas early, you can also take helicopter rides here over the Dam and Lake Mead. Go on past Hoover Dam to Boulder City and then to Lake Meade for a swim and/or to visit the new casino there. Also, there are tour companies that will take you on a cruise of the river below Hoover Dam.

VALLEY OF FIRE STATE PARK: Drive about 35 miles north of Vegas on I-15 and go to Valley of Fire State Park, another scenic park area. This is my favorite NP within easy reach of Vegas it’s really nice and well worth the trip. When you are here you may see a wedding as many couples get married here but only in the morning as it gets very hot in the day. The landscape is like nothing else you will see on earth and you easily be mistaken for thinking that you are on another planet. The $6 entrance fee represents amazing value.

ZION NATION PARK: It’s a long drive to Zion (about 2-3 hours), but you can drive North on I-15 to Zion National Park and back in one day. It is worth the trip and the $25 per car admission, this like most other National Parks is valid for 7 days.

DEATH VALLEY: If you like to visit National Parks, drive about an hour and a half south of Vegas on I-15 and take RT-127 to Death Valley National Park (total drive may be a good 3 hrs each way). Death Valley is has the lowest point in the United States which is also the hottest place on the planet. It’s the place where in the summer you can fry eggs on the rocks, you will see mirages and is home to some of the most deadly creatures on the planet. You need to take lots of water with you something like 2 gallons each incase you break down and you need to check that your car rental company will allow you to drive there.

GRAND CANYON: The drive to the Grand Canyon is 5 long hard hours on mostly two lane roads with trucks and campers (only a short way on I-40). You can drive there and back in one day if you leave early morning, like 6:00-7:00 AM. That will put you there about noon and you will have 4 or 5 hrs before starting back and getting back to Vegas about 11:00PM. Its worth considering staying overnight at the Grand Canyon not only to break the journey but also to allow you to see the Canyon at the two best times of the day sunset and sunrise this is a lifetime experience and is worth the investment in both time and money. If you are going to stay over try and stay in the park it will cost less than you think. The park has a $25 entrance fee per car.

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