Vegasuncovered’s Weblog

Vegas Uncovered a guide to the Las Vegas Strip

2 Free Las Vegas Buffets per day MGM, Mirage, Mandalay Bay, Aria etc

The MGM Mirage Group yesterday, issued a host of complementary buffet deals, if you book two nights under this offer you receive 2 complimentary buffets per booking per day. You do not have to use these in the buffet of the hotel that you are staying at  you can in fact use it at any of Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur, MGM Grand, Aria, Vdara, Monte Carlo, Mirage and Circus Circus. Mirage and Mandalay Bay are my two favourite buffets on the Strip it is great that if you stay at a cheaper hotel you can still eat for free in a far more expensive hotel. These deals are available on most dates until Spetember 8th but must be booked before June 27th

All of these deals are booked directly with the hotel on the links below.  All of these offers are fully refundable up to48 hours before check in, if the rate drops after you book contact the hotel and they will adjust your rate, these deals are available for everyone over 21 and
not just selected players. It is a very good deal.

I have just noticed that this page is suddenly after a few years getting a few hits again sadly these deals are all over there are still good deals to be had the best place to find them is to go directly to the hotels themselves this gives you greater flexability and also more chance of obtaining an upgrade when you check in and if you dont book direct with the hotel it is more difficult to get comps applied against your room rates. The links below will take you directly to the hotels have a great trip.

 

MGM Grand    Excalibur    Mandalay Bay,    Luxor     Aria    Bellagio    The Mirage   New York New York,      MGM Signature

 

MGM Grand Las Vegas “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!” From $65 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 15 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp6/27/11)

Mirage “Complimentary Buffet Everyday!”* From $69 per night Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions).Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp 6/27/2011)

Monte Carlo “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!” From $56 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp6/27/11)

New York New York “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!”  From $55 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*see site foradditional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11(Expires 6/27/11)

Luxor “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!”* From $36 per night Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffe teveryday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions).Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp 6/27/11)

Excalibur “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!” From $32 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 13, – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp6/27/11)

Mandalay Bay “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!”  From $80 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp6/27/11)
ARIA “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!”* From $129 per night Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffeteveryday of your stay(*see site for additional details and restrictions).Promotion Runs: Jun 8 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp 6/27/11)

Vdara”Complimentary Buffet Every day!”* From $109 per night Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet every day of your stay(*See site for additional details and restrictions).Promotion Runs: Jun 13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp 6/27/11)

CircusCircus Las Vegas “Complimentary Buffet Every Day!”  From $27 per night *Book two nights and receive two complimentary meals at any MGM Resorts buffet everyday of your stay (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jun13 – Sep 8, 2011. Promo Code: ZBUFH11 (Exp 6/27/11)

 

June 14, 2011 Posted by | 20 dollar trick, ARIA, bellagio, buffet, buffets, Casinos, circus circus, Excalibur, flamingo, Free Upgrade, Holiday, hotel upgrades, Las Vegas, Luxor, Mandalay bay, MGM, MGM codes, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Mirage, Monte Carlo, resturaunts, Travel, Uncategorized, Vdara, Vegas, vegas buffets, vegas comps, vegas discounts, vegas events, vegas pools, Vegas Strip | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How much money do you need to take to Las Vegas ?

After being asked about how to get a free upgrade the question that I am asked the most is “How much money do I need to take to Las Vegas ?” This is a very difficult to answer as it is the same as someone saying “How much do I need to spend on grocery’s each week ?”

So I will do the best I can to try and show some examples of spends and costs and what I would spend. I am going to assume that your hotel (including resort fees) and flights are paid and that you do not have a rental car and that you will not be doing any shopping. Please bare in mind that I have have great trips in Vegas on $25 per day when I have been hard up and great trips when my budegt has been $1k per day its not the money that makes it better or worse.

The first expense that you will have is getting to your hotel from McCarran you have four options cab $15 – $30(depending on hotel and time of day), shuttle bus $12-$15 (return), public bus $2.50 or Limo approx $60. How to get from the airport to the Strip

When you get to the hotel if you have bags that you will check you should allow $5 per bag for a tip for the bellboy, at the same time it is worth putting a few dollars away for the maid they do a good job and often get forgotten we generally tip the maid $3 per day or $5 if we want extra shampoos etc to take home for Christmas presents 🙂 How much to Tip in Las Vegas

We generally take in a show every two or three nights when we are in Las Vegas we book one absolute cannot miss show before we leave home so this would not come out of our budget all the others we buy from the half price booths and we have paid as little as $15 for a magic show and about $125 for a Cirque show. I think that if you budget $75 for a show that as long as you are prepared to be flexible you should be able to find something that you like. If you want to book direct with the hotel when you are out there shows vary in price depending on show and seats and day of the week etc from about $40 to several hundred dollars.

Dining in Las Vegas is something where you can get buy on say $15 a day but you can also pay $10 for a coffee so what you spend is really up to you. We tend to either have a very small breakfast just coffee and a danish then coffee shop or deli lunch and proper meal in the evening or large or buffet breakfast a snack at lunchtime and then decent dinner. Excalibur and Luxor have 24 hour buffet deals for $24.99 and then $29.99 respectively and this is probably the cheapest way to stay full in Las Vegas though not the best. We generally allow $10 for coffee and danish, $15 for deli or coffee shop lunch and then the evening can be anything from a $20 buffet to a $200 fine dining meal at Eiffel. Food prices change between hotels we were surprised to find that staying at Wynn we spent a lot more money than say at MGM Grand as everything costs more.

Drinks are free when you are gambling (subject to tipping) but if not the prices vary greatly from one casino to another and how you get them ! Casino Royale has the cheapest beer with Michelob $1 all day every day at their bars generally though expect to pay $8 for a beer and $12 for a shot and mixer in a casino bar. Following the rules in the link below will ensure that you maximise your free drinks at the same time don’t piss off the cocktail waitresses.. FREE DRINKS IN LAS VEGAS

Like everything else in Vegas you and gamble as little or as much as you like there are slots from 1c and tables from $5 up slots at $1k per spin and tables with minimums of $5k per hand. Please  remember that most machines are multi lines and to get any return you need to play multiple lines and you should expect a minimum for 25c per spin on a 1c machine Unless you have a few good wins to start with as a rule of thumb you will spend at least twice what you think that you will on slots. $5 tables now are few and far between in the major resorts but Tropicana and believe it or not Bellagio have $5 BJ tables open 24/7 but generally speaking the more upmarket the hotel the less likely you are to find low limit tables. I have had days when I have stared with $40 and it has lasted me all day and I have even left with a profit and had other days where I have dropped $200 in 20 minutes. You can get comps on your play but never ever play for comps take them as nice bonus but don’t expect or try to play just to get a comp.

So roughly here is what I would allow as spending money for a 3 night trip Las Vegas

Taxi to and from airport $40
Tips for bellboy and maid $20 (plus $20 Upgrade trick)
Show with drink $80
Food* $250
Drinks (above free ones) $80
Gaming $300 – $1000
Misc $75

*Food
1 x Luxor 24 hour buffet deal $35
2 x coffee and danish breakfasts $20
1 x med quality dinner $100
1 x good buffet dinner $40
snacks and sodas $55

Please note this is a very rough idea and you really spend as little or as much as you like in Las Vegas,



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June 13, 2011 Posted by | 20 dollar trick, all day buffet pass, ARIA, bellagio, buffets, Casinos, circus circus, cocktail waitress, cocktails, entertainment, Excalibur, flamingo, free drinks, Free Upgrade, Holiday, hotel upgrades, Las Vegas, Luxor, MGM, MGM codes, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Mirage, tipping, Travel, vegas buffets, vegas comps, vegas discounts, vegas events, vegas pools, vegas shopping, vegas shows, vegas tips | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Las Vegas 24 Hour Buffet passes and Vegas Buffet Deals

Shrimp at Las Vegas Buffet

One of the things that I love about Las Vegas is the Buffets they are great OK you are best to avoid the real cheap ones as they are well real cheap !! For what is a small amount of money you get the choice of loads of different types of food and you can pick the bits you really like and avoid the stuff that you don’t which usually happens to be the healthy stuff. If you want to eat a tiny main and stacks of deserts you have it, if you want plate of starters as your main you’ve got it.  It works well when dining in a group and you all like different things each person can choose what they want without the usual arguments about the type of place you go to eat, you go to the buffet and each choose the type of food that you like.

In Vegas you kiss goodbye to your body clock when you get off the plane and buffet dining helps you with this as there are generally all types of foods at all open times buffets work better for me in Vegas than anywhere else I the World. The only problem that you have is that the decent buffets have long lines and you can wait up to an hour (more so at Wynn) to get a table.

My favourite buffet is Mandalay Bay this is because of the food and the setting it is just really nice, I like the Mirage and Bellagio buffets for the sheer quality of the food  and that the breakfast buffet at Excalibur whilst never the best is one of the best value. As a general rule the quality of the hotel will determine the quality of the buffet the worst I have eaten at is Palace Station followed closely Tropicana and I would not eat the Circus Circus or Imperial Palace buffets if budget allowed me to eat elsewhere.

Anyway Harrah’s Entertainment are offering a “buffet of buffets” pass for $44.99 this gives you 24 hour access to 7 buffets, Caesars Palace: Lago Buffet; Flamingo: Paradise Garden Buffet; Harrah’s Las Vegas: Flavors; Imperial Palace: Emperor’s Buffet; Paris: Le Village Buffet; Planet Hollywood: Spice Market Buffet; and, Rio: Carnival World Buffet. This is a brilliant deal if you think that the dinner buffet at Paris for instance is $27.99 and if you time it right you can get two dinners, a breakfast and a lunch which could cost up to $93 ! If you want a cheaper 24 hour pass look at Excalibur from $24.99 or Luxor from $29.99

“No craving stands a chance with a “Buffet of Buffets” all-access pass. It’s good all day at seven different buffets for only $44.99*. Fuel up for the morning with a made-to-order omlet, satisfy your afternoon appetite with some sushi and seafood, or just enjoy every meal throughout the day at a different spot. Simply walk up to any participating buffet and ask for the “Buffet of Buffets” pass. You’ll receive your credential which is good for 24 hours from the time of purchase. Then dig in!”

Luxor Buffet offer; all you can eat buffet passes from $29.99 for Adults and have the option of adding unlimited wine and beer for $10

MGM 2-4-1 –Buffet Deal; There is a deal at present at MGM where you can get 2 4 1 for a buffet when booking a room

Excalibur  have a 24 hour Buffet pass from $24.99

Circus Circus offer 2 free buffets with a stay of 2 nights or longer also includes $150 of dining, entertainment and retail vouchers

Youc an of course still try to get the best buffet in town for free read how to do it here !

 

 


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April 8, 2011 Posted by | all day buffet pass, ARIA, bellagio, buffets, Casinos, circus circus, Excalibur, flamingo, free drinks, Las Vegas, Luxor, Mandalay bay, MGM, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, resturaunts, Vegas, vegas buffets, vegas discounts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Vegas with kids over Presidents day

I was asked the question below and I thought that it may help somone else out.

Question: QUESTION: We have decided to stay in Circus Circus. We will fly in from rural Oregon for 4 days. The hotel is cheap, but the flight is expensive. The kids are 12 & 14. We found a plane & motel package for $1400. It gave us 2 free show tickets. In general, can we get discount tickets for the kids? How are the crowds in the amusement park and midway over this holiday. We are considering the $25 all day buffet. Do we have to plan our meal times around crowds? Is an indoor pool and option anywhere-should we even pack swimsuits? How safe is the hotel? Do we need to be with our kids inside the hotel’s attractions? They are good kids, but shy and not worldly or used to cities. How do we get from Circus Circus to see some of the free sights at other hotels? Can we walk?

 

ANSWER: Hi,

OK firstly when you get to Circus Circus please ask for an upgrade the cheapest rooms are the old motel rooms I think that they are called Manor Rooms it is worth paying the surcharge to stay in the towers if the $20 trick (shown bottom of post) is not successful. The manor rooms are away from the main casino and just not very nice.

The amusement park does get crowded just like any other theme park in peak times and whilst it is the biggest indoor theme park it is not as big as even a modest open air park. I have ridden out of season midweek and there were no lines for anything I would suggest that you get their as soon as it opens stay for a few hours and as it gets busy go off and explore something else.

There are not that many shows that will offer a discount for the kids Vegas is seen as an adult resort and whilst there is plenty for all the family the shows tend to think that if they discount a seat to a kid they have lost out if another adult had bought it. However you don’t have to pay a lot of money to see a show in Las Vegas. What we tend to do is look for one show that we cant miss and book that at full price before we go then we have a look at http://www.goldstar.com (you need to join but it is free to do so) and see if there is anything we fancy the look of there we saw a Hypnotist for about $4 once, we also go to the booths on the morning of the day we want to find a show and take what seems good value on that day they change every day. http://www.tix4tonight.com/ get the coupon and print off before you go.

Sorry you have not said when you are going so I cant tell you whether you can swim or not there are no public indoor pools on the Strip in fact that only one I have been to is at Tropicana and that is a sad affair and really not worth it.

I am not happy to say whether the hotel is safe or not as that puts a responsibility on me and what I consider safe and what you do may well differ it is worth noting that there is CCTV everywhere inside the casinos and a large number of security staff. I generally feel pretty safe anywhere on the Strip and in most areas of most casinos.

You will need to be with the Children anywhere near the casino floor you should be able to leave them on their own if you choose to whilst in the theme park and of course they can walk around the Strip on their own but to be honest you are probably better off at night walking with them.

You can easily walk from CC to the other casinos it is probably about 20 minutes from CC to Treasure Island (or TI as it is now known) and from there the rest of the Strip is easy or you can walk to the Sahara and get on the Monorail. Encore is probably about the same walk maybe slightly less. I would suggest that at night you get a cab to or from these places its not that it is unsafe but particularly the walk to Sahara but it can feel a little unsafe and you don’t want to feel like that whilst on vacation and cabs are very cheap in Las Vegas.

$25 per day is of course excellent value but yes you have got it in busy times expect a long wait the other problem that you have is that the food will be very similar from one day to the next and you may get bored with it but as I said it is great value and you know you will be full up and that you will get free soft drinks. There are still good cheap options to eat in Vegas we never ever leave town without going to the Peppermill (http://www.peppermilllasvegas.com/restaurant/index.html) which is a Vegas institution cheap, huge portions and open 24/7 this site shows the menu for there and other places Peppermill Las Vegas We also allays have at least one breakfast at IHOP and have been known to pop in to Dennys. If you decide to go downtown (Fremont Street Experience is something you children will love) eat down there far cheaper than the Strip buffet at Golden Nugget is excellent, you can get downtown on the bus for $2 each. Lets face it though whatever you do (even McDonalds) you are not going to be able to do that on $25 a day.

I hope this helps you

Simon

MGM Grand and Excalibur are also both very good choices to stay if you have kids.

$20 room upgrade https://vegasuncovered.wordpress.com/2008/10/16/20-upgrade-trick-an-update-las-vegas/
Ellis Island $6.99 Steak dinner https://vegasuncovered.wordpress.com/2008/05/27/top-tips-to-save-money-in-vegas-ellis-island-699-steak-special/

 

 

April 5, 2011 Posted by | all day buffet pass, buffets, Casinos, circus circus, entertainment, Excalibur, MGM, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Treasure Island, Uncategorized, vegas buffets, vegas comps, vegas discounts, vegas wedding | Leave a comment

Hatton knocked out in the 2nd round MGM Grand Las Vegas

Poor old Ricky Hatton I have to say against hope and in my heart fo hearts I did think that Pacquiao would win the fight but not in 2 rounds, I would have I been able to bet against Ricky I would have gone for points win to Pacquiao.  I am thinking how much has Hatton been affected by having a new trainer for the first time ever and maybe trying to learn new things and change the way that he has been fighting for the last 30 years this must have an affect.

I have a feeling that this will not be the last fight for Ricky I would in fact bet that he will have at least one more fight and that it will be in the UK, I would go as far to bet that he will fight Oscar DeLaHoya before he permenantly hangs up his gloves.

I did not feel that I could right a fair or objective report on this fight so I have used the report written by Andrew Walker at East side boxing.

Tonight at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Manny Pacquiao Bukidnon, Philippines 49 (37) – 3 (2) – 2 totally outclassed and destroyed Ricky Hatton Manchester, England 45 (32) – 2 (2) – 0 inside two rounds in their Ring magazine and IBO world light welterweight title clash. Ricky Hatton looked noticeably nervous as he entered the ring which was in stark contrast to Manny Pacquiao who looked cool and calm, even smiling as he made his way to the ring. As the fight got underway Ricky Hatton was never in it from the opening bell and spent the whole two rounds being comprehensively beaten by the pound for pound number one Manny Pacquiao.

Hatton was down twice in the opening round and just hung on to survive to make round two. The second round brought more of the same with Hatton still lunging in and being out speeded, out manoeuvred and more crucially out gunned by the allegedly smaller Pacquiao. In the very last second of the second round Pacquiao caught Hatton with a peach of a left hook and knocked the Hitman out cold leaving those watching stunned. The fight was waved off by the referee Kenny Bayless and surely after such a one sided beating there is no way back for Hatton at this level if at all? Hatton eventually came round and left the ring on his own two feet but gave no interviews as he made his way back to his dressing room.

The future still looks bright for Manny Pacquiao inside the ring with a potential clash with returning former pound for pound champion Floyd Mayweather Jnr who announced his comeback fight today against Juan Manuel Marquez taking place on July 18th. Surely now the biggest fight in the world of boxing has to be Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather Jnr which as long as neither fighter loses beforehand, could take place towards the end of this year. As for Ricky Hatton surely retirement now beckons after a successful career that has earned him fame and fortune alongside a loyal following. Always a gentleman outside the ring and an entertainer in it, the time is right now for Ricky Hatton to hang up the gloves and concentrate on his promotional business.

No one likes to see a fighter of Ricky Hatton’s calibre destroyed as easily as he was tonight by Manny Pacquiao but I just don’t see a way back for Ricky Hatton inside the ring now after such a crushing defeat. Hopefully he will not let his pride get in the way of making a sensible decision. It would be sad to see the much loved Mancunian fighter have one last fight at a lower level in the hope of going out on a win. He has had a great career and was only ever beaten by the two greatest fighters of the modern era in Floyd Mayweather Jnr and Manny Pacquiao. Like Oscar De La Hoya has in the United States, Ricky Hatton could well transform himself into a successful promoter back in his native England.

May 3, 2009 Posted by | boxing, Casinos, entertainment, events, Hatton, Las Vegas, MGM, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Uncategorized, Vegas, vegas events | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Pacquia and Hatton’s in Verbal Spar pre MGM Grand Super fight

The more intriguing match may actually take place outside the ring at the MGM Grand on May 2.

While the two boxers taking part in the megafight at the Las Vegas casino have been about as cordial as possible in their dealings with the press, their trainers have exchanged verbal barbs on almost a daily basis.

A teleconference with international media members on Wednesday saw another battle in Freddie Roach and Floyd Mayweather Sr.’s escalating war of words — this time the two former boxers took it all the way back to their days in the ring.

“I most definitely was the better fighter than Freddie Roach,” said Mayweather Sr, who trains Ricky Hatton and posted a pro record of 29-6-1 with 19 knockouts.

“I got a (fight) poster with Freddie on my undercard.”

Not to be outdone, the normally more-reserved Roach, who posted a career mark of 39-13 with 15 Kos, fired right back at Mayweather.

“You got shot and it ruined your career,” joked Roach of Mayweather, who suffered a shotgun blast to his leg.

“I fought on TV more.”

Roach — Manny Pacquiao’s trainer, who last week sent Hatton a box with weight loss pills inside, poking fun at the Brit who is known to enjoy beers and fattening foods in between training camps — may have got the best blow in when he said Roger Mayweather, not Floyd is responsible for Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s tremendous success.

“Floyd made his son but Roger made him a boxer,” Roach said.

Wasting little time, Roach hit him with another flurry, saying he wanted Mayweather Sr. to present him with his third trainer-of-the-year award.

“I want you to present me the … award this year. This is as close as you’ll get to it,” Roach said. “You’re never going to win it. Ever.”

Mayweather fired back with his trademark “Freddie the Joke Coach Roach” line.

“I’m in your head,” Mayweather said, taunting Roach.

But Roach kept his cool, briefly, replying: “I’m not fighting you, Manny is fighting Ricky.”

“I want you Freddie,” Mayweather said.

“Come get me, you know where I am,” Roach replied.

Finally Golden Boy Promotions Richard Schaefer stepped in telling the trainers to save their fireworks for fight night.

When the trash talk did finally get back to the actual fighters, Roach said that even though Hatton is fighting at 140-pounds, a weight in which the IBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight champ has never lost at, that Pacquiao will be just as strong.

“Manny has KO’d four sparring partners out of seven. He’s looking good at this weight,” Roach said.

“Hatton will be heavier at fight time but that doesn’t make him stronger. I have the stronger fighter, I guarantee that.”

Mayweather countered that Hatton will push the action, forcing Pacquiao to fight while backing up.

“Ricky will definitely back him up. He can’t fight backing up, he’s no Muhammad Ali,” Mayweather said.

When the subject turned back to the fake gift Roach sent last week, Mayweather said, “You tried to be my friend.”

Roach replied, “I don’t want to be your friend.”

Mayweather blasted back, “You really won’t want to be my friend after May 2.”

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/23/trainers-again-trade-verbal-jabs/

For the best Hotel Rates in town click here

April 25, 2009 Posted by | boxing, Casinos, cotto, de la hoya, entertainment, events, Hatton, Las Vegas, Margarito, Mayweather, MGM, MGM codes, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, vegas discounts, vegas events, vegas shows, Vegas Strip, xxx | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

MGM Grand Las Vegas – My review


MGM Grand
3799 Las Vegas Blvd S
Las Vegas
NV 89109
+1 702 891 1111
MGM Grand Las Vegas

LocationYou have already hit the jackpot with this great location, sitting on the corner of the Strip with Tropicana Ave the busiest road intersection in the USA. There are foot bridges connecting the MGM with the Tropicana, New York New York and Excalibur. There is also a Las Vegas monorail station connecting MGM with the rest of the East side of the strip, this will be extended to the airport but that is a few years away.

Theme
Supposedly Hollywood glamour, other than the big lion at the entrance there is nothing that noticeably sets it aside from any other casino. The first time I went to Vegas they had an Emerald city/yellow brick road theme as you entered with the characters from the movie (minus Toto who had been stolen).With thunder and lightning and all, this was pretty cool but that has gone and been replaced with a smarter more serious image.

Rooms
MGM has two basic classes of rooms Grand Tower and West Wing, Grand tower can come with one or two beds and have loads of space, they have nice bathrooms and toiletries and all have a sofa and desk these are some of the largest standard rooms in Las Vegas, the West wing rooms are contempory and modern but smaller and darker and the bathroom is sort of integrated into the room, you have only a shower not a bather  and you can only get these with one bed. MGM has a number of suite options but there are only really three that I can afford, Bungalow, Celebrity Spa and Hollywood,. A bungalow suite is a big room with a large seating area, a Celebrity Spa Suite is a Bungalow suite with a large bathroom with a spa in it and a Hollywood Suite a two rooms suite with a large bathroom. All of these are nice suites and contrary to belief most are available on most floors so you are no more likely to get a good view because you are in a suite than a room, also be aware that your room will not be assigned until check in so you may not get the suite that you have booked.

Attractions
MGM used to have the best theme park on the Strip but sadly this has been removed and replaced with high roller accommodation. The loss of the theme park aside MGM still boasts some great attractions; the lion’s habitat where you can see lions and cubs paraded in a glass „habitat” and a state of the art amusement arcade which has all the latest video offerings as well as some stunning virtual reality games. MGM has screening rooms for upcoming TV shows you get free tickets and you watch shows yet to be aired and give you opinion this happens every day and is totally free of charge. I  think it also fair to include the rainforest cafe as an attraction as it is so much more than just somwhere to eat.

Pool
The MGM Grand pool complex  is fantastic, you guess that when as you enter you are offered a Map! There are 5 pools, various spa baths and an amazing Lazy River MGM opens at least one pool every day of the year.

Shows and Entertainment There are currently two shows at The MGM Cirque de Soleil’s KA and Crazy Horse Paris (over 18 only). The Hollywood theatre is used to host headliners it was Tom Jones on our last visit David Copperfield is there as I type. The MGM Grand Garden Arena is one of the biggest venues in Vegas and is used for concerts and boxing.   MGM has a good selection of good bars added to Studio 54 nightclub and the Tabu ultra lounge if you wanted to you need not go anywhere else for your entertainment. MGM is also home to MGM GRand Arena this is one of the premier venues in Las Vegas it plays host to the biggest boxing events in the US such as Ricky Hatton, De La Hoya and Mayweather and holds concerts such as Maddonna, Billy Joel and Britney. MGM I feel also has the best selection of non Ultra lounges and the best bars on the Strip its great for relaxing drinks in a non club enviroment.

Dining
MGM  is great for dining , the Grand Buffet (B$13.99, $15.49 D$25.99 and Champagne Brunch $20.48 or $18.99 without the champagne) this is a good buffet its not a contender for the best buffet crown but its good and good value, be warned that the queues can be long and the “champagne” on the brunch is not that hot but for $2.50 unlimited who can complain ! There is a good food court for quick eating including, Nathan’s Hotdogs, a pizza place  and Haagen Daz’s. The 24hr coffee shop is big and can take a while for food to be served and sometimes is not as hot as it should be. The rainforest café is a good bet for younger diners with animated robot animals and thunder storms. MGM has 8 offerings in the fine dining class Nob Hill, Pearl, Joel Robuchan, L’Atelier, Craftsteak, Fiamma, Sea Blue and Fiamma. There are 4 casual restaurants the very good Wolfgand Puck café, The grand Wok, Emeril’s and The Grand Wok. The MGM also has the obligatory 24 hour Starbucks.

Gaming
171,500 sq ft WOW its big its very big contains nearly 4000 slot machines over 100 tables and 17 roulette wheels table minimums start at the usual Strip rate of $10 but these can be few and far between in busy periods. Some of this gaming space has been give to a Sports book and poker room. There are several huge sections of penny and nickel machines but they tend to be away from the main sections of the casino and you feel like you are hidden from main view. The most annoying thing about this casino floor is that it is so big you get lost you must at all times follow the signs hanging form the roof and even then its still easy to get lost and disorientated. The size of the casino does work in its favour as well though even in busy times if you wander around for long enough you can usually find a quieter area.

Drinks service As a nickel player I would say that the drink service sucks. They just don’t want to give you anything, when I moved on to quarter machines it was better but only marginally. I think that this is in part to do with the size of the casino because even once you have managed to place your order you can wait another 30 minutes for the drink to arrive. This is not the place to come to if you want to get loaded, Note this seemed to have improved last visit.

Overall
A huge lively resort with everything under one roof, nice big rooms in a great location and great rates can be found when they run offers.

Good points
The location is great, the pool is great the dining options probably the best on the Strip. Unlike many other resorts they seem to have got the timing right for the check in you don’t seem to have to wait too long and the beds are the most comftable in Las Vegas if not the world.

Bad points
It gets crowded really crowded even walking through the Casino at peak times is a mission. Like every other resort they assign rooms at check in, this can mean that you do not get what you think that you have booked, your suite, bed or smoking option may not be available and you may be assigned something else.

Top Tip Check in at the airport whilst waiting for your luggage this saves time when you get to the resort. Do not take up on the offer of an “upgrade” to a West Wing room they are smaller and miles away from anywhere stick with the Grand Tower.

February 8, 2009 Posted by | bellagio, boxing, buffets, Casinos, Cirque, cirque de soleil, de la hoya, entertainment, events, Excalibur, free drinks, Free Upgrade, Hatton, Holiday, Las Vegas, Luxor, Mayweather, MGM, MGM codes, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, shows, slots, Travel, Uncategorized, Vegas, vegas discounts, vegas events, vegas pools, Vegas Strip | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

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

February 1, 2009 Posted by | bellagio, boxing, buffets, Casinos, circus circus, entertainment, events, Excalibur, Free Upgrade, gaming, grand canyon, Hatton, Holiday, hotel upgrades, Las Vegas, Luxor, Mandalay bay, Margarito, Mayweather, MGM, MGM codes, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Mirage, Monte Carlo, news, sport, tipping, Travel, Treasure Island, Uncategorized, Vegas, vegas comps, vegas discounts, vegas events, vegas pools, vegas shopping, vegas shows, vegas spa, Vegas Strip, vegas suites, vegas tips | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Hatton -v- Pacquiao Super fight May 2nd MGM Grand Las Vegas

BEST HOTEL RATES FOR HATTON FIGHT WEEKEND HERE

Ricky Hatton will face Manny Pacquiao at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on May 2nd. The bout will be for Hatton’s Ring Magazine and IBO world junior welterweight titles and tickets will be available from Friday.

The Mancunian’s last fight was at the MGM as he secured a convincing victory over Paulie Malignaggi in November, while Pacquiao memorably beat Oscar de la Hoya at the venue with a fine performance in December.

After weeks of protracted negotiations surrounding the Filipino fighter’s financial demands, Hatton is delighted the contest will definitely go ahead.

“I’m really excited to get back in the ring in Vegas after beating Malignaggi in November,” said the ‘Hitman’.

“I am confident that I am the fighter to take down the pound-for-pound champion and I believe I will be victorious on May 2.”

Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36KOs), who, like Hatton, is 30 years old, will be hoping to build on his impressive win over de la Hoya.

“I always like new challenges which is the reason I am anxious to fight Ricky Hatton,” said Pacquiao.

“My trainer Freddie Roach will put together a new game plan which will be much different than the one we used against Oscar (de la Hoya).

“There are concerns because Hatton is a very strong puncher so I must deal with that in the ring.

“I promise I will be completely prepared and will do my best for all of my fans in The Philippines.”

De la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions who will be promoting the fight with Top Rank, thinks a fantastic bout is ahead.

MGM Grand

“When Manny Pacquiao goes into the ring he fights for his country, the Philippines, and tens of thousands of Filipinos worldwide.

“He is a tremendous athlete and unlike any other champion we have ever promoted. When Manny walks to the ring he carries the weight of his country on his shoulders and he fights with all of his heart, every second of every round.

“We are very excited that this fight has been made, as it is the fight fans wanted and the one I look forward to seeing myself.

“This fight has all the makings of a ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate and I think Hatton will de-throne Pacquiao and become boxing’s pound-for-pound king.”

Hatton, who has only lost once in 46 fights, beat American Paulie Malignaggi in November and had made no secret of his interest in meeting the winner of Pacquiao-De la Hoya.

With the Pacquiao fight in danger of collapse, Hatton’s camp had also been chasing De la Hoya himself or a re-match with Floyd Mayweather Jr – the only man to defeat Hatton.

But a fight with Pacquiao, who has lost three of his 48 fights with two draws, is now on and promises to be one of the fights of the year.

http://www.irishtimes.com

Best price hotels in Las Vegas

Ticket news to follow


January 31, 2009 Posted by | boxing, Casinos, circus circus, cotto, de la hoya, entertainment, events, Hatton, Holiday, Las Vegas, Luxor, Mandalay bay, Margarito, Mayweather, MGM, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Travel, Uncategorized, undefeated, Vegas, vegas discounts, vegas events | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquaio half price tickets, MGM Grand Las Vegas

Goldstar have alimited amount of half price tickets for the fight on Staurday 6th december at the MGM Grand Arena get them whilst you can. Click here for more details

Boxing: Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquaio
MGM Grand Garden Arena- Ballroom (South Las Vegas, NV)
Saturday, Dec. 6 @ 3:30pm (main event at 6:00pm)

Full Price: $500.00 – $1500.00    Our Price: $250.00 – $750.00

Two legends of boxing collide at the MGM Grand, as Oscar De La Hoya takes on Manny Pacquiao in one of history’s most anticipated fights. De La Hoya, Los Angeles’ famous “Golden Boy” and six-division world champion, takes on Filipino star Pacquiao, currently Ring magazine’s no. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.

December 3, 2008 Posted by | boxing, Casinos, cotto, de la hoya, entertainment, events, Hatton, Holiday, Las Vegas, Mayweather, MGM, MGM Grand, MGM GRand Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Travel, Vegas, vegas discounts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment