Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Residents Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Newkirk’s Notes - comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! A cloudy Las Vegas with scattered rain showers, that is. I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving weekend. Even if you live outside the U.S. or Canada and aren’t having a Thanksgiving celebration sometime during this month, take a little time to count your blessings. Life isn’t perfect, but if we dig down and look around, we can all find something to be thankful for.

Fortunately, our current weather isn’t miserable and the rain is infrequent enough that it shouldn’t be interrupting anyone’s vacation. Nice change of pace for we locals and what the heck… much warmer than most of the rest of the United States this weekend.

As I just looked out my window (literally as I type), I saw the Virgin Air 747 coming out of the clouds with a plane full of our European friends (probably some readers among them) getting ready to touch down. I’m continually thankful and appreciative of the time, cost and effort you exhibit to make the Las Vegas visit whether you are a few hours away by car or spending half a day on an airplane to visit from the other side of the world.

Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular continues the amazing run at Venetian Las Vegas.

A couple of months ago, Phantom passed 1,000 performances which included:

• “The Phantom,” has spent 1,000 hours in the make-up chair, equating to over 41 days
• The delicate ingenue “Christine Daae” has had a total of 11,000 costume changes to date
• Mr. Ubaldo Piangi has belted out 2,000 high Cs, the ultimate note for any tenor
• More than 3,802 hours have been spent maintaining the other star of the show, the one-ton, 15-foot tall, 16-foot wide chandelier
• The crew has executed 14,000 elaborate set changes, creating 13 separate locations on stage each night
• Nightly, “Christine Daae” shares two kisses with “The Phantom” and three with the charming “Raoul, Vicomte de Chagny,” amounting to 5,000 kisses since opening night

From the moment you enter the magnificent custom-built theatre you are immersed in the storied Paris Opera House and become part of The Phantom’s world. Featuring every beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber song from the original, spectacular sets, new effects, and a breathtaking chandelier experience, Phantom is an only-in-Vegas experience. Click for Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular Tickets

Historic Las Vegas Hotels and Showgirls - I found this great YouTube video with a montage of vintage Vegas stuff. Well worth a look especially if you have some extra time off this holiday weekend: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkxJVeJMCGM

Hilton Grand Vacations Photos - If you are like me, you’ve seen this place up (more or less) across from The Sahara but never given any thought to walking inside the place. After all, it really isn’t a casino or entertainment venue. When we sent Mark to shoot some current photos of The Sahara (see previous issue), I had him snap a few of the Hilton Grand Vacations. Nice place… click on any of the above photos for a quick virtual tour.

Screeching To A Halt - For the first time in 40 years, Clark County (Las Vegas area) has LOST residents. An estimated 10,000 people have left town this year. That in stark contrast to the usual 4000-5000 per month who move here each month. In addition, Nevada unemployment is at 7.6%, the highest in 23 years and headed for the 10% mark.

What does that mean to you, the visitor? Perhaps something good: Las Vegas got “hot” starting about 2002. Reality shows, non-stop coverage on travel networks and celeb-gossip programs. This brought way too many carpetbaggers to town. People who didn’t care about Las Vegas, the history, the live-and-let-live tradition which attracts visitors, and who only saw visitors basically as people with wallets to be drained. Unfortunately, Las Vegas’ reputation took a bit of a beating as customer service went downhill while prices went way up. This is starting to change!

Those of us who have been here many, many years and love our town and love helping and serving (and are grateful   for) our visitors will be here long after the present economy has flushed out those who never belonged here in the first place.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

Boulder Stn from $30, Fiesta H from $29, Green Valley from $90, Red Rock from $90, Santa Fe Stn from $50, Sunset Stn from $50, Texas Stn from $25, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

‘Tis the Season for Holiday Fun at Shark Reef Aquarium - This holiday season, Santa will be making his list and checking it twice at Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium. Children are invited to share last minute holiday wishes with “Santa in the Shipwreck” December 21-24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With each paid admission, children under the age of 12 also will receive a complimentary candy cane and photograph with jolly St. Nick to remember this unique holiday experience. Entry to Shark Reef Aquarium is $16.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages five through 12. Children four and younger receive complimentary access. Click to view Mandalay Bay Shark Reef Pictures

New Treasure Island (TI) Las Vegas Room Design

Rest Easy With the New Room Designs of TI and Circus Circus - This fall, Las Vegas visitors are invited to indulge in the new contemporary comforts of Treasure Island and Circus Circus. At Treasure Island, tempting new room designs pair plush luxuries with modern conveniences. Framed by soothing neutrals and draped in crisp white sheeting, each room’s dreamy focal point is the TI Elite Sensational Pillow-Top Bed. Specially designed to provide uniform shape, true back support and soothing comfort, the bed is so sensational, it’s available for purchase. To keep visitors plugged in, TI also made must-have technologies standard – from 26-inch LCD flat-screen televisions to MP3/iPod-compatible clock-radios. High-speed Internet access also is available.

At Circus Circus, guests are invited to be among the first to experience a modern new room decor that combines a calming neutral palette with fun pops of vibrant color. Located in the property’s West Tower, each standard accommodation features a pillow-top mattress, sleek marble-topped workstation and comfortable sitting area. Hi-tech amenities include 32-inch plasma televisions and wireless Internet access.

• Treasure Island (TI) Info and Discount Reservations

• Circus Circus Info and Discount Reservations

Fall Into Relaxation At The Spas Of MGM MIRAGE - From a revitalizing coffee pedicure to an aromatherapy massage designed to melt away the stress and strain caused by long summer days, these fall-inspired treatments leave spa-goers relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.

• Hot Cafe y Horchata Pedicure, MGM Grand Spa – Enliven your day with this energizing foot treatment. The stimulating 50-minute pedicure includes a hot coffee foot mask and a sweet milk foot soak. ($95, Monday-Thursday; $105, Friday-Sunday)
• Moroccan Jasmine Tea Manicure and Pedicure, Kim Vo Salon at The Mirage – This intoxicating 90-minute service begins with a gentle sugar scrub infused with exotic jasmine oil. Next, guests enjoy a calming manicure and pedicure before a nourishing jasmine- and green tea-infused creme leaves hands and feet silky smooth. ($155)
• Relaxation Massage, The Spa at New York-New York – During each indulgent 50- or 75-minute session, a citrus aromatherapy oil awakens the senses while a gentle scalp massage melts away tensions. The latter treatment also includes an exfoliating peppermint foot scrub and massage. As a special treat, guests are invited to enjoy a delicious orange and chocolate bar after their service. ($125, 50 minutes; $185, 75 minutes)

Gambling Talk: Introduction To Poker Tournaments - with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the tenth of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Introduction To Poker Tournaments (broadband)

Members Mania - We Love Our Readers!

This will be our first trip to Vegas. We will be staying at the MGM Grand. I was actually in Vegas many years ago when I was like 13 so I don’t count that. We will be in town for an expo but will have the late afternoons and evenings free. What would you say would be the things not to miss?

We are in our early 40’s and still like to be on the go not couch potato kind of people. What would you say is the best place to get a great Prime Rib dinner as my fiance is a prime rib lover. Any advice you could give would be helpful as we would like to make the most of our time in Vegas.

Thanks,

Colleen from New Jersey

Ted Responds:

With so much to do and see, I try to steer clear of suggesting “must see” things to those who have never visited or have not been here in years. Also… you’ll be back (trust me on that one) so don’t kill yourself trying to do everything. Especially when here for a convention. Some tips:

1. DO go read the back issues of our newsletter (archive links are listed by month on the right sidebar… scroll down the site when you click to it) You’ll be far better informed than most other visitors and thus be able to make the most of your time.

2. Primarily Prime Rib in the Orleans gets raves both for food and atmosphere. A quick two mile cab ride from your hotel, The Orleans is a nice, big, full-size casino with a mix of locals and tourists: Orleans Hotel Casino Las Vegas Photo Set

3. Voodoo Lounge on top of the Rio won’t scare off those over 30. Call ahead to verify but usually no cover until sometime in the evening. Moderate dress code enforced (don’t show up in a t-shirt and old tennis shoes). If possible, get there 45 minutes before sunset and watch The Strip light up in front of your eyes outdoors while you enjoy a cocktail.

Many of the photos in this set were taken there at sunset (the others were taken from Stratosphere): Las Vegas At Dusk Photo Set

Thanks!

Yankee

Ted Responds:

I absolutely agree that you’ll have a better chance of winning at a “local’s” casino. No guarantees… you can have a bad run of luck anywhere. But state revenue statistics seem to show that year in and year out, local’s casinos pay out the best.

We stopped posting a free shuttle list some time ago because that information is subject to constant change. If you print it out and then it isn’t accurate when you arrive, we get the blame!

Many off-strip hotels do have a free shuttle. Some (like South Point last time we checked) are only for guests going to and from the strip. Others are happy to take visitors from the strip to their casino and back.

My advice? Call the various hotels you wish to visit upon your arrival. Tell them you are staying on The Strip (or downtown if the case) and ask if they have a free shuttle there and back, from where, and what hours it runs.

Enjoy your visit and let us know how it went when you get back!

Jeanne from Lorain, OH

Ted Responds:

You can always check your local paper travel sections for package deals (sometimes a regular charter flight deal may be available that you wouldn’t find online). For example, Allegient Air has non-stops from Toledo (not too far from you) and usually has really reasonable pricing.

Also, keep in mind that airfares may be up, but hotel prices are down. If you have to spend more for air, make up the difference with your choice of hotel. Let’s face it, most of the time in Las Vegas you just need a place to put your luggage and get some shut-eye. Our friends at I4Vegas continue to really have some great deals: I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Hotel Reservations

As a long time recipient of your excellent newsletter I thought it was about time I made a small contribution. My wife and I have just returned to the UK after our latest visit to Las Vegas, (about our 12th trip in the last 10 years or so), once again we had a wonderful time.

Even though we are not big gamblers, we only play the low stake slots, we still enjoy the atmosphere and feel of the place. Our main vices are the restaurants and the shops so here are a few recommendations your readers might like to try.

• Carnevino Located in the Palazzo Hotel - This is one of the best in Las Vegas, food, service, atmosphere all top class, it’s a little pricey but well worth a visit.
• The Steakhouse at Circus Circus - Best steakhouse in Las Vegas. They also have a Champagne Brunch, (Sunday 9:30, 11:30 and 1:30), it’s the best in Las Vegas and only $35.95, don’t miss it.
• 9 Fine Irishmen at New York New York - Great Irish bar, Saturday night live Irish Band, Magners, Guinness and a bloody good sing song not to be missed.(The foods pretty good as well).
• Memphis Championship Barbecue. 2250 E.Warm Springs Road, Las Vegas, NV 8911 (702) 260-6909. www.memphis-bbq.com - The ribs are the best you will ever taste anywhere and also the service and food are great and the prices are as good as the food.
• Montana Meat Co. Durango, (9135 S. Durango Dr. Las Vegas, NV 89113. (702) 407-0362 www.montanameatco.com - Excellent food, great service and above all very reasonably priced.

If anyone fancies a little road trip away from the bright lights of the strip take a trip to see the Pioneer Saloon 30 miles south of Vegas at Goodsprings you may even see the ghost. That’s all, hope this is of use to someone keep up the good work and see you in Vegas come Superbowl Weekend.

John & Sheila from Leeds, England

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

• Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com - We read them all!
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More Las Vegas News - Concerts - Events

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  Real Deal Tickets

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• Alternatives to at-home Thanksgiving dinners exist - and we’ve found some

• Nevada shortfall grows; jobless plight highlighted

• State votes 2-1 for Vegas bus service

• Vegas bids to cash in with plan for $50m Mob museum

• Future of Cashman Field in Las Vegas questionable

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• Unemployment to get worse before it gets better

• Nevada shortfall grows; jobless plight highlighted

• Tommy Bahama’s Paradise Cafe offers tasty twist to clothing line

• Sunny side down: LV boosters see dark clouds

• Gaming revenues tumble nationwide

• Analyst sees LV home prices near bottom

• Group celebrated transformation, reclaiming of resource area

• Public opinion sought on how to deal with budget shortfall within the school district

• LV Valley’s 81 a record high for November

• Town Square celebrates its one-year anniversary

• Increasing police presence - New area command opens at Las Vegas Convention Center

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• Strip should think small

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• Cabaret owner doesn’t seem fazed by new club manager’s connections

• MGM Mirage chief retiring

• Rebels no longer Runnin’ from past

• Anger over school budget cuts reaches fever pitch

• Plans to build city hall during economic hard times criticized

• Beer and pizza played part in saving life of local steakhouse pioneer

• Office vacancy rates soar in third quarter

• Vintage-feeling Plaza to aim for newer look

• Gambling at age 18 opposed

• Goodman only sounds like eager beaver in possible gubernatorial bid

• Interactive poker joins stand-up comedy act in pair of new shows

• Nevada gasoline prices plunge - Motorists ease back on roads for travel, leisure

• Nevada confronts more cuts - Panel projects new shortfall in tax revenue

• Casinos market to gays, lesbians - Group spends $64.5 billion yearly in U.S.

• Cirque, ballet artists to join forces

• Explore Black Canyon via paddle power

• Believe it or not, Criss Angel’s a hit

• Higher room tax gets boost - Clark County voters give it strong support

• Land prices tumble 73.9 percent from year ago

• Luxor’s T&T a cross between traditional and the nontraditional

• Dubai World seen as suitable partner

Coming Hot Holidays - The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

• Hanukkah Dec. 22 - Dec. 29
• Christmas December 25
• New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 - January 1
• Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
• Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
• Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
• Valentine’s Day February 14
• President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
• Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
• St. Patrick’s Day March 17
• Easter Sunday April 12
• Cinco de Mayo May 5
• Mother’s Day May 10
• Father’s Day June 21
• Canada Day, Canada July 1
• Independence Day July 4
• Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
• Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
• Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
• Jewish New Year September 19
• Halloween October 31
• Veteran’s Day November 11

Link To Us! - Have a home page, web page, or blog? Link to us, and give yourself and your friends a quick link to find us from your site. Simply link to http://www.accessvegas.com and name the link Access Vegas!

RSS Feed - We now have an RSS/XML feed! Most RSS programs let you visit AccessVegas.com and automatically pull the feed. For those who want to enter it manually, the feed is:
http://www.accessvegas.com/xml/whats-hot.xml

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All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

November 26, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

Serving Las Vegas Visitors and Locals Since 1999

Welcome to the Insider Vibe! This is the official newsletter of AccessVegas.Com. We talk about the Las Vegas activities you really care about.

AccessVegas.com Quick Info Menu:

Newkirk’s Notes - comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! As snow and unusually cold weather grip much of the United States, Las Vegas also sees falling temperatures over the Thanksgiving week: Falling from the mid-70’s to the mid-60’s (F).

Photo Courtesy Weather.com

Hey… I’ve been telling you for months to plan your fall getaway to come visit us and stretch out your summer just a little bit longer!

Blue Man Group Adds Shows - December is usually known as the time when many Las Vegas shows take a week or two of to retool and simply give the cast a vacation. None of that for the world famous Blue Man Group! They are actually adding shows this December, including afternoon shows during the Christmas and New Years season. Click for Blue Man Group Las Vegas Tickets

Celebrate Botanical Beauty at Bellagio - You can still visit the fall harvest display at the Bellagio Botanical Gardens through November 29. This year, it includes a towering 35-foot-tall cider mill powered by a gentle stream, giant carved pumpkins and a whimsical, animated apple tree that speaks to delighted passers-by. Click either of the above pictures for a look at previous displays.

Mamma Mia! Time Running Short - Just after New Years, Mamma Mia! will end the Mandalay Bay run of over five years. Seeing Mamma Mia! in Las Vegas is far different than seeing a local or touring production (or the movie). If you are headed here between now and January 4, 2008, you owe it to yourself to enjoy this show while you can. Click for Mamma Mia! Las Vegas Tickets

Room Tax Update - Despite a 10% drop in visitors this past September, many in Nevada are still pushing for a 3% increase in the room tax to help fund state budget shortfalls. They don’t seem to understand that you have only so much of a vacation budget to spend. When you visit here, you are already taxed a 7.5% sales tax on just about everything, plenty of “hidden” taxes (on things like booze and entertainment), and already pay room and other similar taxes. Not to mention an obnoxious car rental tax that goes to fund… (hold your breath on this one)… a new performing arts center you’ll probably never visit. I dunno… seems like they are trying to “kill the goose that laid the golden egg” here. We’ll keep fighting against it, and keep you posted.

Not So Fast, My Friend - (As ESPN Football analyst Lee Corso would say). We recently suggested Jillian’s downtown (Neonopolis on Fremont Street Experience) as a place to shoot some pool if you need to get away from the slots for a while. Jillian’s has just closed, evidently to make way for the late 2009 arrival of the Star Trek Experience (once housed at the Las Vegas Hilton). This in line with interview I gave to a Wired magazine writer a number of weeks ago. We’ll keep you posted.

Las Vegas Cocktail Waitress Blackjack Tournament - What do those ladies do when not serving you drinks? The Stratosphere Hotel and Casino organized what they are calling the first annual “Cocktail Server Blackjack Tournament” where 48 teams competed for trips to Hawaii and thousands of dollars in prizes. Click for complete Las Vegas Cocktail Waitress Blackjack Tournament photo set.

No New Las Vegas Strip Construction for 5-7 Years? - That is what many are saying. Are the right? Probably so… but it isn’t the end of the world.  Let’s face it… these guys haven’t really topped each other since Bellagio and Venetian. I mean… we’ve really seen it all. And… any of us who had a particular restaurant or bar in a “no longer there” hotel will have the comfort of knowing it will probably be there next trip.

However, don’t expect the end of new things to see and do when visiting. Hotels have always been remodeling and changing and adding new, fun diversions since the early days of Las Vegas. The only thing constant in Las Vegas is change!

Hawaiian Tropic Zone Monday Night Football Specials - Drink, dine and catch all the hard-hitting action of Monday Night Football each week on Hawaiian Tropic Zone’s 36-foot tall plasma screen wall. Hawaiian Tropic Zone offers Monday Night Football patrons irresistible drink specials including $25 all-you-can drink Coors and Coors Light. Fans can treat their taste buds to an array of food specials such as Sin City Bombers, mini corn dogs, tacos, HTZ Wings, pizza and the Hawaiian Tropic endZone Platter. Sexy Hawaiian Tropic Zone cheerleaders provide entertainment on the sidelines while a video slot machine displayed on the giant plasma screen wall determines new drink specials following every touchdown.

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

California from $39, Fremont from $39, Gold Coast from $38, Main Street from $39, Orleans from $42, Sam’s Town from $28, Sun Coast from $63, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

ESPN Brings Back New Year’s Eve Daredevils - New Year’s Eve in Times Square is too old school for ESPN. The sports network plans to ring in 2009 with a motorcycle jump and truck flip in Las Vegas. ESPN was pleasantly surprised by the success of a similar daredevil program on New Year’s Eve last year, even though one of its planned stunts fell through when Rhys Millen broke some vertebrae during a practice run. Millen will be back this year, trying again to do a complete back-flip of an off-road truck. Robbie “Maddo” Maddison will try to jump to the top of the 96-foot-high replica of the Arc de Triomphe in front of the Paris Las Vegas Hotel. Click to Read The Full Story … and Book Discount New Years Eve 2008 Las Vegas Rooms

Bellagio, Picasso And Le Cirque Receive 2009 AAA Five Diamond Award - Bellagio Continues to Shine as Only Hotel in Country Featuring Two Five Diamond Restaurants. For the eighth consecutive year, Bellagio received AAA’s prestigious Five Diamond Award as did Julian Serrano’s renowned restaurant, Picasso. Additionally, Le Cirque received the distinction for the sixth consecutive year, making Bellagio once again the only hotel in the United States to be home to two AAA Five Diamond restaurants. Click to Read The Full Story …

The Original Andre’s Says Farewell - On December 31, 2008 “New Years Eve,” Andre’s French Restaurant located at 401 S. 6th St. will serve its final dinner celebration. After 29 years of dining excellence, a long list of recognition, awards and accolades Chef Andre Rochat will turn his focus to his other two Las Vegas venues, the newly remodeled Andre’s Restaurant & Lounge at the Monte Carlo Resort and Alize at the top of The Palms. Click to Read The Full Story …

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Extends Popular Exhibition Through New Year - Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art has announced the extension of its “American Modernism: exhibition. The compelling collection now can be viewed through January 2, 2009. Organized by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), the exhibit features masterworks by Georgia O’Keeffe, Stuart Davis, Marsden Hartley, Arshile Gorky and others. The period known as American Modernism began at the turn of the 20th century and reached its pinnacle between World War I and World War II. During this time, celebrated artists such as O’Keeffe began experimenting with painting by offering a subjective take on traditional still life and landscape techniques.

There’s a New Ace in the Game at Binion’s Gambling Hall & Hotel as the Legendary Property Unveils a New Poker Room - Binion’s Gambling Hall & Hotel, iconic among poker players for its unmatched legacy in the game, today opens a brand-new poker room to build on its tradition and history as the place that made poker famous. Binion’s new poker room features 10 tables in a contemporary setting designed to make players feel right at home while experiencing excellent service and some of the best deals in the game including a max rake of $3 on all live games, $2 comps per hour of live poker play, tableside food service and special room rates. Click to Read The Full Story …

Venetian/Palazzo OK - As I predicted in a previous issue, the parent company of Venetian/Palazzo raised some cash and the company is no longer looking at a possible bankruptcy. Bottom Line: In tough times, the last thing a Las Vegas resort would do is shut down. Even if profits are low, keeping the lights on and making some cash is better than none!

Cool Drinks and Hot Cuisine - Two new venues debut on the Las Vegas Strip offering the coolest, and the hottest, experiences your next visit:

• Mandalay Place ushers in a cool new nightlife experience, literally. Named for its constant frosty temperature of minus 5 degrees Celsius (27 degrees Fahrenheit), Minus 5 is completely made of ice – from the walls and bar to the chairs and sculptures. After donning sheepskin-lined parkas, gloves and booties, guests are invited to sip exotic vodka cocktails from specially designed ice glasses crafted from pure New Zealand spring water. Admission to the ice lounge will be $30 per person and includes one cocktail.
• Luxor introduces T&T, a sexy, high-energy restaurant featuring the delectable cuisine of world-renowned restaurateur Chef Richard Sandoval. Short for Tacos & Tequilas, T&T features an edgy design centered on five icons of Mexican culture – the sombrero, the shot glass, the bullfight, skeletons and seductive women. T&T is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and also offers late-night dining until 3 a.m.

Take a Las Vegas Fantasy Home - Enjoy a Las Vegas fantasy year-round with the official 2009 cast calendar of Fantasy, the provocative adult revue at Luxor. Each month showcases a lovely lady in a sultry backstage scene. And, don’t forget to pick a date to see the sizzling new numbers recently added to Fantasy’s outstanding line-up.

The show now features new theme song “Fantasy” (written by Darren Sher and Cris Judd with vocals by Stephanie Jordan) and a fresh opening dance number. Looking for steamy pics of the opposite sex? The 2009 calendar for the hunky men of Thunder From Down Under at Excalibur also is available for purchase.

• Fantasy Las Vegas Info and Tickets

• Thunder From Down Under Las Vegas Info and Tickets

Gambling Talk: Seven Card Stud Poker - with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the ninth of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Seven Card Stud (broadband)

Members Mania - We Love Our Readers!

Note: This is a follow-up from an email we published in a previous issue.

We are back from VEGAS. We had a great time. VALLEY OF FIRE was awesome! We stayed at MGM GRAND and the pool there was cool. Ate at some Mexican place in ORLEANS hotel that was good. Ate at Bellagio buffet that was good. Saw the show KA and not my favorite at all. I hear O and Beatles are the one’s to see. I have seen Zumanity before and I did like that. I loved our hotel bar at MGM GRAND the one that starts with a C. I was disappointed since I didn’t find much LIVE Music at the lounges of the hotels. I know the BIG APPLE in NY NY is no longer there so bummer. I loved stuff like that with older crowds.

So for my 14th time there it was fun fun fun! Weather was perfect and I came home to 60 degrees and all rain so bummer. Also ate at Smith and Wollensky since they were part of Restaurant week and have dined with them here in CHICAGO. It was good but I think overpriced for what it truly is. Also went down to Slots of Fun and Riveria for the cheaper part of VEGAS and of course Casino Royale and O’Sheas too.

Alisha

We’ll be in LV for super bowl week-end and was wondering who has the best party available to an everyday Joe off the street. We’re staying at the Rio but since we’re driving we’ll have transportation to go about anywhere in the LV area. Haven’t been out there since 12/06 so I’m sure there have been a lot of changes.

Love the newsletter just to keep up a little bit on the changes taking place. Keep up the good work!

Ruthie Hatfield from Lawrence, Kansas

Ted Responds:

Superbowl party information isn’t released until mid-January. We’ll do our best to post information as it becomes available. Tip: When it gets closer, start following our Easy Vegas Deals blog. Leading up to Superbowl weekend, we’ll continue to include parties and events, including information released to late to make our regular newsletter.

We will be visiting Vegas for the 4th time this year but instead of our usual Sept visit we are staying over Christmas. There is very little info on what happens in Vegas at Christmas time, I’ve read it’s very quiet. That’s no problem to us but would love some advice on things to do & temps. We are a Mum & Daughter party ages 28 & 51 we love Vegas & will surly keep returning. Thanks for the weekly news letter read it every Sun evening. Keep up the good work!

Regards,

Julie & Elisa from West Yorkshire UK

Ted Responds:

Christmas used to be a very slow time of year here and the 10 days (or so) leading up to it are still pretty slow. Many shows take that time off, you’ll find lines for things much shorter (or non-existent). However, more and more it is common for far flung families to all meet in Las Vegas for Christmas, enjoy the season and all the decorations at various hotels (especially the Bellagio Gardens…. see our Bellagio Gardens At Christmas Photo Set from a previous year )

From there, things pick right back up again as many have the week (or part of the week) between Christmas and New Years and most shows come back full force. Bottom line, you’ll find plenty to do and enjoy your stay over Christmas.

Don’t expect fall weather (where this year, we stayed into the 70’s F well into November). December highs are around 57 F with late night lows just above freezing. Remember that our desert weather can easily be 10 degrees higher or lower than the average and winter winds can chill things. Dress for winter. If you get lucky and things are warmer than usual, you can always shed your jacket or sweater.

Love the newsletter and all the great information. I have been a subscriber for years and watched your changes and have gotten so much useful information for our frequent visits. Its so nice to be kept “in the know” on what is happening, or has happened or will be happening. I especially enjoy the Q & A column in your news letter from readers… it truly is the inside scoop and I admire your honesty.

Thanks, great job!

S. Pomplun from Eagan, MN

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

• Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com - We read them all!
• Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News - Concerts - Events

• “Fuego Raw Talent” Gets The Blog Rolling

  Fuego Raw Talent Tickets

• Special Performances Of Bette Midler The Showgirl Must Go On To Benefit Nevada Public Radio

  Bette Midler Tickets

• The Real Deal! Adds New After Hours Show. Preview Pricing Now Available.

  The Real Deal! Tickets

• ‘Criss Angel Believe’ opening - Director defends magician’s change

  Criss Angel “Believe” Tickets

• Folk-singing, joke-telling duo Smothers Brothers stays sharp after 50 years onstage

  Smothers Brothers Tickets

• Wallace hoping for ’super change’

  George Wallace Tickets

• The Las Vegas Philharmonic Presents Pops II – A Christmas Celebration!

• Christian Audigier The Store Opens At TI

• Mi Casa Grill Cantina At Silverton Casino Lodge Awarded The Illuminating Engineering Society’s 2008 “Award of Merit”

• Optica Opens At MGM Grand

• Mr. Lucky’s Offers a Mouthwatering Thanksgiving Menu to Please Any Palate

• TBS Celebrates The Year’s Best Comedy Movies With Funniest Movies Of The Year: 2008

• Nobhill Tavern (Formerly Nobhill) Debuts At MGM Grand - Restaurant Offers Modern American Tavern Fare In Casual Yet Sophisticated Setting

• Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group Celebrates Thanksgiving With Festive Fare And Specialty Menus

• SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand and Joel Robuchon Earn Prestigious 2009 AAA Five Diamond Award

• Las Vegas: Mo’ Green

• Las Vegas: In the money

• Las Vegas-area bus fares to increase in January

• Penthouse seeking to buy Las Vegas Strip casino

• CityCenter Confidential - Secret Life Of The Nation’s Largest Construction Project

• Home foreclosures, economic downturn fuel apartment demand

• Las Vegas Sands Corp. Says It’s Ready For Future

• New Parking Options To Ease Headaches At McCarran

• Las Vegas Ranks as Unhealthy City

• Miss America Plans January Crowning in Las Vegas

• Room tax hike wins support - Washoe, Clark county voters back measure

• It’s going to get worse before it gets better

• Company behind Lady Luck wants tax reimbursement

• Travel group predicts fewer trips

• Vegas Reflections - Recalling Sin City’s Mafia days

• Elvis’ girlfriend in 1956 still mystery

• Closing time coming a lot earlier these days

• All in for McCain - Executives protect interests with hefty contributions to candidate

• Performers have much to ponder about careers after shows close

• Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer turning 87

• ‘Lefty’ Rosenthal was an FBI snitch

• Celine Dion wants to give birth again

• Giant roadrunner, fox and Gila monster draw attention to Springs Preserve

• Adelson gains $1.2 billion as gaming soars on Street

• MGM cuts reassure investors

• Average tourist already priced off Strip

• Jacko turns down Wynn Encore gig

• Fallout after the fall: revisiting an implosion

• Nevada’s economy dead last - Decline since January ‘07 worst in nation

• Measure indicates upturn not near - Southern Nevada index still falling

• Echelon won’t restart in 2009 but isn’t for sale

• Orleans Casino Buffet Specials November 2008

• Jerry’s Nugget Casino Continues To Offer More Value This Holiday Season 2008

• Silverton Casino Gaming Promotions November 2008

• Polar Express™ 4-D Experience Arrives At The Excalibur Casino November 14 2008

• The Seinfeld Campus Tour Bus Rolls Into The Comedy Festival 2008

• Latin Star Jose Jose To be Honored By The Las Vegas Walk Of Stars

• South Point Casino Concert Lineup For November And December 2008

• Orleans Casino Offers Seniors Buffet Specials

• Come Out For Trivia Thursdays At PT’s Pub Thursday

• Win Your Share Of $40,000 In Free Slot Play At Palace Station Casino In November 2008

Coming Hot Holidays - The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

• Hanukkah Dec. 22 - Dec. 29
• Christmas December 25
• New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 - January 1
• Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
• Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
• Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
• Valentine’s Day February 14
• President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
• Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
• St. Patrick’s Day March 17
• Easter Sunday April 12
• Cinco de Mayo May 5
• Mother’s Day May 10
• Father’s Day June 21
• Canada Day, Canada July 1
• Independence Day July 4
• Civic Holiday, Canada August 1-3 (3 day weekend)
• Labor Day, U.S September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
• Labour Day, Canada September 5-7 (3 day weekend)
• Jewish New Year September 19
• Halloween October 31
• Veteran’s Day November 11

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All contents copyright 2008 Ted Newkirk. All Rights Reserved.
Hotel Rates Published Accurate At Time Of Publication

November 19, 2008 ISSN: 1529-2770 About Us Privacy Policy

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Newkirk’s Notes - comments on Las Vegas from AccessVegas.Com publisher Ted Newkirk:

Hello From Las Vegas! Wow… we are getting some lucky (and nice) fall weather with highs still in the 70’s F and cool (but not cold) nights. If you are starting to regret not planning that fall visit, we’ll do our best as we are a “virtual vacation” in every newsletter!

Plaza Doing Major Upgrades? - Downtown’s Plaza Hotel and Casino is 30 years old and despite the economic downturn, owners are looking a possible major upgrades to the 1000+ rooms in the property. If you are one of the very few who have ever staggered up to the third floor of the property, you’ve seen the huge convention area they have that sits virtually unused all year long.

If they can secure financing for the $10,000,000 in room upgrades, they hope to compete with other mid-level properties for conventions that want to be at a nice hotel, but don’t need the size of bigger convention venues.

Sahara Hotel Casino Photos - We’ve loaded some new interior shots to our Sahara Las Vegas Hotel Casino photo gallery. If you are feeling the economic pinch and want to save a few bucks on your next stay, The Sahara really isn’t a bad choice. Lots of lower limit gaming and slots, a casino that was upgraded not that many years ago and is in good shape, and a monorail stop right at the hotel can have you almost anywhere on The Strip within about 15 minutes. Check out Sahara Hotel Casino Discount Reservations

Is The Las Vegas Club Scene Over? - Not quite, and as long as there is a Las Vegas, there will be plenty of nightlife catering to every segment of society. However, clubs simply aren’t paying sums in the tens of thousands of dollars to second-tier (to put it politely) celebrities just to show up for the night like they used to. We also understand that “bottle service” (paying hundreds of dollars for a bottle of liquor in able to secure a nightclub table) isn’t quite as popular as it used to be.

We have readers of all ages and our feedback (even among those in their 20’s) has been “Las Vegas needs to bring back more live music in the lounges” instead of questions about clubs. Maybe Las Vegas gaming win is down in part because the tried-and-true formula of letting people gamble, drink, watch some great free music (then repeat this pattern all evening long) has faded away at many casinos.

September Visitor Numbers Down - If you were here during September (lucky you as the hot days were winding down), you may have noticed more elbow room than usual. Visitor numbers were down 10% from September 2007. No surprise there. Many of you plan your visits weeks (or months) in advance and this summer brought very high advance airfare.

The good news? Those of you who felt “priced out of Las Vegas” are seeing the return of some very affordable prices. I did an airfare and hotel search for January 11-14 and found the following:

$250 airfare from American’s heartland (I used Indianapolis, IN as a reference… some cities are even cheaper) and plenty of $40 a night hotel rooms both on The Strip and downtown through our hotel partners I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations. $660 total for two people, four days in Las Vegas, air and hotel. Yes, times are tight. But if you are of the mindset that a Vegas vacation is going to set you back thousands, time to go back and do the math!

Not Everyone Likes The New Games - An op-ed piece to our local paper regarding all the automation and lack of interaction on many of the newer casino games made some great points. Sounds like it may have even been written by one of our readers:

During a stopover in Reno 25 years ago, my wife and I discovered Nevada-style gambling — and absolutely loved it. Just as suddenly, on a summer trip to Las Vegas and Laughlin, we admitted the thrill is gone. Since when did the gaming industry rob Nevada of its uniqueness, conspiring to remake its casinos into video arcades?

Most recently, the Excalibur in Las Vegas brags about replacing its live poker room with electronic poker tables. Again, what happened to the state that believed in character — the state that made gambling real? In the old days, even when the games were “electronic,” at least the money they paid was real. Certainly, if the sound and feel of money were not important, why does every ticket machine go “clink! clink!” Click to read full story Interaction, winning give way to gadgets, losing

Enjoy This Issue!

Ted Newkirk
CEO/Managing Editor

Associate Editor: Amy Rayner-Cooley
News Researcher/Editor: Mark Jacobs

Las Vegas Is On Sale!
Get Great Rates At All Hotels:

Boulder Station from $25, Fiesta H from $29, Green Valley from $85, Red Rock from $90, Santa Fe Station from $50, Sunset Station from $40, Texas Station from $28, More Savings At All Vegas Hotels!

Larry The Cable Guy Returns To The Orleans Arena On December 13 - Popular for coining the catchphrases “Git-R-Done” and “Lord, I Apologize,” Larry the Cable Guy, returns to the Orleans Arena on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at 9 p.m. (Tickets) Known to some as Daniel Whitney, Larry the Cable Guy has showcased his talent, comedy act and characters on stage, television and in film. Larry’s one-liner filled act earned him appearances on “Evening at The Improv,” “Comic Strip Live” and the nationally syndicated “Bob and Tom Show.” His success with radio continued when he became a regular on “Jeff Foxworthy’s Country Countdown.” Click to Read The Full Story …

Ring In 2009 With Kid Rock At The Pearl Concert Theater 12/31/08 - The infamous rocker with the bad ass attitude is bringing the party this New Year’s Eve with a spectacle of a show inside The Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms on Wednesday, December 31, 2008, at 10:30 p.m. (Tickets) Grammy award-nominated Kid Rock released several successful albums including Devil Without A Cause in ‘98 which includes smash hits, “Bawitdaba,” “Cowboy” and “Only God Knows Why” in addition to becoming Diamond Award certified by RIAA with more than 10 million copies sold. Click to Read The Full Story …

Spice Up Thanksgiving With A Little “Mojo” From Sushisamba Strip - Why slave away in the kitchen this Thanksgiving when you can feast on an artful blend of tasty holiday concoctions at Sushisamba Strip? Join SUSHISAMBA strip on Thursday, Nov. 27, for this gracious holiday festivity. Dinner serving begins at 5 p.m. through 2 a.m. For starters, experience the “Mojo” Marinated Turkey ($28) with cornbread-linguica stuffing, organic fall vegetables and roasted pan gravy to warm the cockles of friends and family. Click to Read The Full Story …

Producer Dick Feeney Receives His Star On The Las Vegas Walk Of The Stars Becoming The 31st Recipient - Las Vegas Producer Dick Feeney was acknowledged for his creativity and talents Oct. 17 by becoming the 31st recipient of Las Vegas Walk of Stars. The Las Vegas Walk of Stars, located from Russell Road. to Sahara Avenue., honors those who have contributed outstanding service to their community in several different categories: show business, literary, pioneers; and civic, humanitarians, sports and military in association with the rules set by Clark County. Feeney’s star, located in front of the New York New York Hotel & Casino, name was added among Wayne Newton, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jr., Rich Little, Siegfried and Roy, John Stuart, Trini Lopez, Frank Marino, Tony Sacca, Liberace and Elvis. Please refer to www.lasvegaswalkofstars.com for more information. Click to Read The Full Story …

Gambling Talk: Limit and Pot Limit Omaha High Low Split - with Victor H. Royer. Join our own “Vegas Vic” in the seventh of a series of poker instruction brought to you via streaming video! This week: Limit and Pot Limit Omaha High Low Split (broadband)

Members Mania - We Love Our Readers!

Hello!! Is there a local bar or hotel downtown just to go and tilt back a couple and shoot some pleasure billiards? (Not looking for competitive-type, that’s for sure).

Shelley

Ted Responds:

Jillian’s in Neonopolis has a room dedicated to pool tables called the 9 Ball Billiard Lounge. First come, first served. Before 4 PM, $6.00 per person per hour (Monday-Friday Billiards are complimentary with your meal). After 4 PM, $5.00 per person per hour. Odds are you’ll find other visitors just in to have fun like you are!

We, four 22/23 year old guys, are trying to determine whether to come to Vegas over Thanksgiving (Thurs, Friday, Saturday night) 2008, or over Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday night) 2009. Basically, we are looking for the best time to party (clubs/hotels/etc) for the best value. Flight prices seem cheaper over MLK weekend, but hotel rooms look more expensive. Can you give us some advice on when to experience Vegas? Thanks for your help.

Lance

Ted Responds:

There really aren’t any bad weekends for many of the clubs. Thanksgiving extended weekend draws more international visitors. To a lessor scale, some families use Thanksgiving weekend as a time to gather in Las Vegas, but once Thursday is over, extended families spend the rest of the weekend doing typical Vegas stuff.

Thanksgiving offers tons of football betting (college and pro) all four days. It will offer slightly warmer weather than MLK weekend (although not pool weather). Also, MLK weekend does fall in that “dead zone” between New Years Eve and Superbowl Sunday.

If you are looking for crowds, football betting, and visitor variety, I’d look at Thanksgiving. If looking for a slower time when lines might not be so long, and club prices (admission, bottles) not so stiff, lean toward MLK.

We come to Vegas every year and this year we are staying for one month. As far as gambling goes we are not in the ‘upper’ bracket but still contribute to the area’s economy. As well as having some fun we have made very good friends and look foreword to ‘partying’ with them.

Over the years Vegas has changed dramatically, not always for the better. As you have mentioned ‘bean counters’ have a place in business BUT they should be monitored and tempered by experienced persons who understand the psychology of gambling, not just the ‘bottom line’. Remember, Vegas is not built on winners, but a good winner is good for the promotions.

On our first visit, Sam’s Town was still ‘in the desert’. If Vegas did not exist, no one would have the twisted imagination to invent it. We love America, with all its faults, we have found the people to be genuine, with all their foibles, and only serious old age or being destitute will stop us visiting. Perhaps this year we will win, or, break even.

Best wishes,

Wolf and Jean from Coventry, England

Ted Responds:

Couldn’t agree with you more. The guys running the casinos used to be gamblers themselves and understood the psychology of it. These new guys may be financial wizards (or maybe not judging by how gaming companies are doing), but they should be on Wall Street, not making the decisions on how to best get people to enjoy gaming.

Thanks again for this marvelous newsletter - we couldn’t make it to Vegas this year - but as I am turning 40 next year our USA-trip -including Vegas- has been arranged now. We are looking forward to come over in February ‘09.

Greetings from Germany

Ollie and Diana

Ted Responds:

Great to hear from you and happy that you are still reading and keeping up on Las Vegas. I passed 40 just over three years ago… you’ll have great fun celebrating it here!

Love the newsletter and all the great information. I have been a subscriber for years and watched your changes and have gotten so much useful information for our frequent visits. Its so nice to be kept “in the know” on what is happening, or has happened or will be happening. I especially enjoy the Q & A column in your news letter from readers… it truly is the inside scoop and I admire your honesty.

Thanks, great job!

S. Pomplun from Eagan, MN

We love to hear from you, and value your feedback! Here’s how to participate:

• Drop us an email at allvegastv@aol.com - We read them all!
• Call our recorded comment line at 702-507-0055. We listen to every call.

More Las Vegas News - Concerts - Events

• Lisa Lampanelli To Perform At The Pearl Concert Theater On January 17

  Lisa Lampanelli Tickets

• Backstreet Boys Announce A Fall Tour With A Stop In Las Vegas At The Pearl November 22

  Backstreet Boys Tickets

• Contrary to rumors, Cher is doing just fine

  Cher Tickets

• Glitz Of Early Vegas Returns To Glamorous New View 215

• The Carmel Room Inside Rampart Casino Presents Jose Cuervo Tequila Food Pairing Dinner

• Bertolini’s Authentic Trattoria Desserts Are The ‘Icing On The Cake’ After Every Meal

• Morton’s The Steakhouse In Las Vegas Opens For Lunch On Six Select Days In December

• Terrible’s Primm Valley Casino Resorts Presents Rey Misterio Sr. And Jr. In The Star Of The Desert Arena

• Fastball To Perform At The Canyon Club Las Vegas

• As Las Vegas slumps, Wynn doubles down

• ‘What happens’ doesn’t apply to Vegas buffets

• Builder in busted boomtown looks for way to cope

• Downtown art museum is in works

• Magura makes you feel like you’re in Eastern Europe, as opposed to east Las Vegas

• Nightclub files discrimination suit against Caesars Palace

• McCarran predicts quick tourism turnaround

• Another Construction Delay For The Echelon Project

• Thousands Upside Down with Mortgages

• Despite Tough Times, One Business Roaring Ahead

• Once-hot homes are losers in Las Vegas

• Parking lot near famous Las Vegas sign to increase safety, access

• A Turkish bath, Vegas-style

• Magura makes you feel like you’re in Eastern Europe, as opposed to east Las Vegas

• Las Vegas To See More Foreclosures

• Miss USA pageant returning to Vegas

• Another great recommendation - a spicy Thai joint called Ping Pong

• Office market deflated by downturn

• Trump Las Vegas investors pursue class action lawsuit

• Fountainebleau Resort Expected To Open On Time

• Las Vegas under $100

• In Troubled Times, Sin City’s Star Chefs Redefine Fune

• Valley land values plunge 74 percent in third quarter

• A gamble worthy of Las Vegas and good for World Series of Poker

• Binion’s harkens back to roots with new poker room

• Construction at McCarran causes flight delays

• Chapels Seek Marriage License Age Restriction

• Unemployment Hitting Nearly Every Sector

• E! TV Star Ben Lyons Celebrates His Birthday At The Hard Rock Hotel

Coming Hot Holidays - The following dates are huge times to be in Las Vegas, and rooms are in high demand. Booking in advance is the best way to save. Visit our friends at I4Vegas Discount Las Vegas Reservations and spend one of the following hot dates having fun in Las Vegas:

• Thanksgiving Day November 27-30 (4 day weekend)
• Hanukkah Dec. 22 - Dec. 29
• Christmas December 25
• New Year’s Eve-Day December 31 - January 1
• Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, U.S (Observed) January 19-21 (3 day weekend)
• Chinese/Lunar New Year January 26
• Lincoln’s Birthday, U.S February 12
• Valentine’s Day February 14
• President’s Day, U.S (Observed) February 14-16 (3 day weekend)
• Washington’s Birthday, U.S February 22
• St. Patrick’s Day March 17
• Easter Sunday April 12
• Cinco de Mayo May 5
• Mother’s Day May 10
• Father’s Day June 21
• Canada Day,