Scaredy cats need not apply.... Fright Dome in Las Vegas is ranked in the Top 5 of Haunted Houses in America.

The popular annual fright fest, Fright Dome at Circus Circus Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, opens this Saturday, October 1 with a first-ever grand opening event — the premiere  Black Carpet!  The hotel promises the arrival of celebs, local headliners and more to opening night of one of the scariest haunted attractions in the nation.  Carpet arrivals start at 6pm and doors open at 7pm.

Created by Jason Egan, Fright Dome at Circus Circus has been horrifying visitors to Las Vegas since 2003.  Ticket prices this year are hovering right around $40 for General Admission.  For an extra $15,guests can buy a VIP Pass and the ability to skip to the front of the line at attractions within the Dome.

More info can be found at the event’s website:  Fright Dome at Circus Circus Las Vegas.

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Beginning March 15, Dion will be performing a brand-new Colosseum show featuring her most-beloved hits set to the music of a 30+ member orchestra.  The show’s co-producer promises a technically-innovative sound and screen experience courtesy of celebrated Grammys director Ken Ehrlich.  Although we’ve seen numerous reports of sell-outs, we found tickets available for even the debut performance through our affiliate at TicketNetwork –  Las Vegas Tickets.

The month of March also sees some famed performers hit the stage at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.  March 5 brings Eric Clapton to town for a single Saturday night show.  Clapton, whose hit song “Layla” and accompanying album celebrates its 40th anniversary in March (yeah, makes me feel old, too) had a recent stop in Tokyo and you can read about the show on this special Eric Clapton website — WheresEric.com. Tickets (starting at $59) info:  Eric Clapton Tickets 2011-03-05 Las Vegas, NV, MGM Grand Garden Arena.

March 19 is the date for the latest Las Vegas concert featuring Bon Jovi.  This one-night show is their only Las Vegas stop during 2011 in a tour dubbed simply Bon Jovi Live in support of their newest “Greatest Hits” recording.  Last year’s Circle Tour was named the highest grossing concert tour of 2010 according to Billboard’s annual Top 25 concert tours. Get Bon Jovi Tickets for MGM Grand Las Vegas at TicketsNow.

The Monster Ball World Tour featuring Lady GaGa takes the Las Vegas stage on March 25.  Tickets at MGM Grand’s Garden Arena to see the “Born This Way” singer are scarce and pricey but we found some starting at $200 on TicketsNow.  Lady Gaga Tickets.

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Home to Barry Manilow, Paris LV is hoping new nightclub Chateau attracts its own set of fans.

March in Las Vegas means much more than basketball this year.  Coming in like a lion, March pretty much stays that way all month long with performances from some top names in music plus the much-anticipated opening of the new nightclub at Paris Las Vegas and the return of Celine Dion to Caesars Palace.

Let’s start with the opening of Chateau Nightclub & Gardens at Paris.  Making its debut on March 4, Caesar’s hopes this newest entry into the hot Las Vegas club scene will impress guests with its phenomenal Strip-side location and outdoor dance floor and cabanas.  (We’re going to miss the gorgeous fountain they removed to make way for this club but, hey, we understand — commerce is commerce.)

Two stories of club action and six bars dotting a 40,000-square-foot venue will merge such seemingly disparate features as lushly-classic French gardens and architecture with DJ’s spinning “an eclectic blend of house, dance, hip-hop and mainstream music. “

The Grand Opening on March 5 features an appearance by Drake while on March 25, Flo Rida checks in to see if this club can handle him – or not.  And what club in Vegas worth its designer-vodka drinks and scantily-clad servers doesn’t have an upcoming visit from at least one or more of the Jersey Shore crowd?  The Chateau doesn’t disappoint with scheduled appearances by “The Situation” plus a Sammi Sweetheart birthday bash.

Links for more info:  Chateau Nightclub LV newsletter or check out this official Caesar’s  Chateau Las Vegas website. You can also follow them on twitter here: @chateaulv

Tomorrow – March’s must-see concerts in Las Vegas.  In the meantime, enjoy this Flo Rida video –

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These limited-time offers for room discounts and special credits come directly from MGM Resorts and pop up fairly frequently but always on different properties.  The current ones happen to be for ARIA Resort and the Vdara, the non-gaming hotel across the traffic-circle, weird entryway, courtyard from ARIA.  (If you caught “The Bachelor” on ABC last night, you would have seen Brad Womack under the ARIA portico awaiting his posse of bachelorettes. What? No gaggle of desperate gorgeous women to accompany you? No problem, you can still stay there.)

We have to admit it.  We are strangely attracted to ARIA and, no, it has nothing to do with Brad.  We actually enjoy playing slots there (IGT’s Secrets of the Forest is a fave) and Julian Serrano has become our routine stop for yummy tapas — try the warm spinach salad with garlic and pine nuts — and white sangria.

Here are the latest deals we have as an affiliate of MGM Resorts:  (Affiliate means we get a couple of bucks if you book through our site.  Thanks.)

ARIA “$50 DAILY ARIA Resort Credit” The Center of Excitement has Shifted! *Be our guest on select dates now through June 30, 2011 and enjoy a daily $50 ARIA Resort Credit (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Promotion Runs: Jan 28 – Jun 30, 2011. Promo Code: AR7D50 (Exp 2/2/11)

Vdara – Room Rates From $119/nt.

And here’s a video look at “Secrets of the Forest” slot machine from IGT.

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Dogs are welcome at eight Caesars properties where bad beat jackpots are paid in kibble and Nylabones.

You know the look.  The one you get as soon as you pull out the good suitcase and start packing it with all your Vegas finery.  The guilt-inducing look that says “So I’m off to the kennel while you go have all the fun.” (Personally, we get the “We’re stuck here with Aunt Marge (who still hasn’t figured out that we like our dinner microwaved for 28 seconds not 30) while you go dine at Guy Savoy” – death stare.)

Well, fret no more:  Caesars Entertainment now welcomes your canine friends at eight of their Las Vegas properties.  The new PetStay program debuted in October at Caesars Palace, the Rio and Imperial Palace and now includes Paris, Bally’s, Planet Hollywood, Harrah’s and the Flamingo.  The program seems to be doing quite well as we saw a number of dogs out and about during our last visit to Caesars Palace.  And, yes, we mean the four-legged variety.  Sort of.

In addition to the $25 (Imperial Palace) to $40 (Caesars Palace) upcharge per night, there are some rules and restrictions:

* Dogs staying at any of the participating hotels must weigh 50 pounds or less and be present at the time of check- in.

* Up to 2 dogs per room are allowed.

* Dogs are permitted to walk through designated common areas while on a leash and accompanied by the owner.  (Damn, we figured we’d stick a leash on them and let ‘em run wild through the sports book while we hit the spa.)

* Can only play blackjack if they know not to split 10′s.

Okay, so we made up that last one.  Sort of.

For more info on pet-friendly hotels in Las Vegas, visit the Caesars website for all the PetStay policies.

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8.  The newest slot game to hit the casino floor is the “community game” based on American Idol and you can play it at any of the MGM Resorts properties.  MGM has a 30-day exclusive on this new IGT game and going by what we saw of it at the gaming expo in November it is going to be a blast to play.  Look for it at Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, NYNY, Luxor, Mirage, Bellagio and ARIA.  (We snagged a photo of it from the gaming expo’s trade show floor.)  Just think, this may be your last chance to see Simon snark his way through the competition – other than in reruns.

The coolest game to hit the casino floors this year -- American Idol -- can be found exclusively at MGM properties this weekend.

9.  We dig the new Munch Bar at Caesars Palace.  It’s located within ear-splitting distance of the Pussycat Dolls blackjack tables but the food is fast, fun and a good nosh when we feel like eating lunch at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m.  Try the Philly Cheesesteak sliders, the sweet potato fries with a wicked garlic dip, the grilled cheese bites with tomato dipping sauce or one of the monstrous burgers.

10.  PBR Rock Bar – the cowboy-themed BBQ spot that opened at Planet Hollywood is another good spot for lunch or dinner.  Two people can easily share the plate-sized pulled pork sammich with the mini-vat of creamy potato salad.  The place heats up at night when the mechanical bull starts bucking drunks patrons onto the floor.  And you definitely don’t want to miss this: Friday, January 7, 10 p.m. — “Party with some of adult entertainment’s finest and get a chance to compete in the mechanical bull riding competition. The most impressive bull rider will win a $500 cash prize. Revelers can get down and dirty with 2-for $8 beers and two-for-one Hoedown-Throwdowns, PBR Rock Bar’s specialty cocktail.”  Honest, they’re calling it the Hoe-Down Pornstar Bull Riding Contest.  (Kinda’ makes that American Idol slot game look a little less exciting, huh?)

11.  Check out the Strip’s first high-end Greek restaurant — ESTIATORIO MILOS — at the new Cosmopolitan.  An NYC/Montreal  import, the restaurant features fresh fish and other menu items done up in creative Mediterranean style.  We can’t wait to try the fried zucchini and eggplant appetizer.  (We heart zucchini done this way.)

12.  While Las Vegas is expecting some chilly weather this weekend, it will be downright freezing if you stop by the Monte Carlo and the newest Minus5 Ice Lounge.  Enjoy Vodka cocktails in this lounge made entirely of Canadian ice.  (Why Canadian ice?  Imported is always better.  We think….)

Here’s that guarantee we talked about:  Not having an enormously exciting time in Vegas?  We’ll be at PBR at Planet Hollywood, sitting at the bar enjoying a giant guitar-sized frozen fruity-thing, at 11 p.m. Saturday night and will ride the bull if our promise to provide you with fun things to do in Vegas has not been met.  No, really, just look for us.

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LAVO at the Palazzo will ring in the New Year with hostess Holly Madison on hand to party with Las Vegas revelers.

“Maybe it’s much too early in the game
Aah, but I thought I’d ask you just the same
What are you doing New Year’s,
New Year’s eve?” *

Las Vegas for New Year’s Eve? That’ll work. So “who” will be lighting up the desert and ringing in 2011 with the masses? Here’s a list of “hosts” (we’re still not quite sure what that means…) plus performers booked into various Strip venues this year.

New Year’s Eve 2011 Events, Las Vegas

Reality star/entrepreneur/serial dater and “smart” sister, Kim Kardashian, will be hosting the party at TAO Las Vegas at the Venetian.  (Unfortunately for us girls, her liaison with Halle Berry ex, Gabriel Aubry, is over so no extra eye-candy for the $$$ you may be shelling out.)

Holly Madison, Las Vegas’ version of the girl-next-door (if you happen to live next door to a huge casino resort such as Planet Hollywood,) will be mingling with revelers at LAVO, the Palazzo’s celeb-heavy club. (We thought it odd that she wasn’t snapped up for a gig at one of the Harrah’s Caesar’s properties.)

Mario Lopez (we’re assuming sans baby and Screech) will be making an appearance at Eve nightclub inside the Crystals at CityCenter. Eve – owned by Eva Longoria (we’ll drop the “Parker”) – has a ton of packages available including the $10,000 “Celebrity VIP” blitz with admission for you and 14 of your BFF’s plus “Unlimited Premium Liquor, 4 bottles at a time, and 2 Bottles of Dom Perignon Magnum.”

Sean “Diddy” Combs will be hosting the blow-out at LAX at the Luxor. Other hip-hop and rap stars in town and hosting and/or performing for the night’s festivities include Ludacris at Vanity at the Hard Rock Hotel — packages start at $150 with open bar – plus NELLY at Haze in the new ARIA Resort and Casino or how about B.o.B. at the Mirage’s JET nightclub.

The most talked about “by-invitation-only” event is the Jay Z/Coldplay concert at the brand-new Cosmopolitan casino resort. Reportedly, the Empire State star is getting a cool mil for his performance. For this event, high-rollers only need apply. If your casino play is grand enough to impress the Cosmo’s powers-that-be, here’s a run-down on the event — Coldplay & Jay-Z LIVE Concert, Cosmopolitan Las Vegas NEW YEARS EVE 2011 — plus an email addy you can use to try for tickets. (We’re assuming your 2009 tax return complete with W-2G’s is the key to getting your golden ticket.)

Check out all the info on lots of New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas events at our favorite BestOfVegas.com site where tickets, line passes and more are available for purchase.

*  “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” Music and lyrics — Frank Henry Loesser

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The Cosmopolitan resort, the newest component of CityCenter Las Vegas, opens December 15.

Some news you probably already know – The Cosmopolitan opens tomorrow in Las Vegas. We say “probably” because we assume you’ve either seen the TV commercials (they started in 2005 or maybe it just seems that way) or read the press releases or followed any number of the Yellow Brick blog posts/tweets leading to the opening of the newest Emerald CityCenter component.

We’ll be checking out the new digs come January and here’s what we’ll be looking for:

The Casino at The Cosmopolitan — Although you wouldn’t know it from the ads, they do have one.  Already we know that Blackjack at The Cosmo is nothing to write home about so we’ll be interested in seeing the pay tables for video poker along with which slot games made the cut.  Wanna’ really be avant-garde, Cosmo?  Be one of the few on the Strip to give your guests a fair gamble.

The Cosmopolitan Restaurants –  The biggest coup for the new property no doubt comes from bringing acclaimed Spanish chef José Andrés (protege of famed El Bulli chef Ferran “The Father of Foam” Adrià) to Las Vegas.  Andres will be at the helm of Jaleo, China Poblano and The Henry.  We’ve eaten at Jaleo in Washington, D.C. so we’re most interested in trying out China Poblano which promises diners a spot where “Noodles and tacos come together in a festive, stylish setting designed by SEED.”  Hmm.

Other top toques brought in to run the high-end hash houses of the Cosmo include both Scott Conant (Italian,) and David Myers (who looks like Kerry Simon’s moody younger brother.)  The spot we’re really psyched about is Estiatorio Milos by restaurateur Costas Spiliadis, the Strip’s first 5X$ Greek restaurant.

The Guest Rooms at The Cosmopolitan — Honestly, the balconies over-looking the Strip — with doors-that-open-so-you-can-sit-out-on-them-balconies — are what most piqued our interest.  Because we like to gamble and eat and enjoy the random cocktail — a lot — we don’t spend all that much time in the room.  We are hoping, though, that one of those cute little Westie terriers got lost during the filming of the Cosmopolitan’s TV commercials and we find him/her under the bed.  A hotel that would offer a room complete with cute puppy or kitten — or maybe a duck for the tub? — would be our idea of a really great hotel concept.

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Rooms at ARIA Casino Resort at the heart of CityCenter Las Vegas are on sale during MGM Resorts' holiday promotion.

This year, “Black Friday” shopping can include snagging a great deal on a winter getaway to Las Vegas when you book with one of MGM Resort’s special holiday sales.

One of the properties participating is the new ARIA Casino at CityCenter, home to two of our newest fave restaurants:  tapas bar Julian Serrano and Sage Restaurant.  Serrano’s eponymous spot features a wide selection of  luscious “small plates” such as salmon with truffle bechamel and portabello mushrooms, a deconstructed Mediterranean Stew with shrimp and sole and a warm salad of spinach, garlic, pine nuts and raisins that is unforgettable and guaranteed to keep vampires away for at least a week.  (Yes, there is that much garlic and it is divine.)  Also, don’t miss the white wine sangria with notes of pineapple and pear.

Book the holiday sale rates through 12/1/10  for travel dates through February 28, 2011.  Use the links and promo codes below to check out all the dates and details:

ARIA “10 Day Holiday Sale” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: AR10DAY (Exp 12/1/10)

Mirage ” Winter Sale” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: MIRBLK10W (Exp 12/1/10)

Luxor “Holiday Special” Promotion Runs: Nov 22, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: L1122 (Exp 12/1/10)

Another special deal from MGM hotels comes just in time for the Wrangle National Finals Rodeo happening December 2 – 11 at the Thomas & Mack Center on the UNLV campus.  Stay at MGM Grand and get not only a great room rate but also lots of 2-for-1 deals and freebies.

MGM Grand Las Vegas “NFR at MGM Grand” Rates from $69/nt. * Your NFR Maximum Vegas package is at the MGM Grand – Your package includes: 2 for 1 buffet, Two (2) complimentary admissions to Studio 54 or Tabu Ultra Lounge, Two (2) Complimentary cocktails at the 4 main bars (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Nov 24 – Dec 18, 2010. Promo Code: MKT410 (Exp 12/11/10)

Here’s one more great deal — this one from the Monte Carlo Las Vegas which offers easy access to NYNY and to CityCenter.  Monte Carlo is also home to the new Minus5 Ice Lounge, a cool (pun intended) spot for a late night cocktail.

Check out all the nice goodies that come along with this terrific room rate offered in the Vegas Partyscape package: Monte Carlo “Vegas Partyscape” Rates from $39.20/nt (2nt Min). *Two Neighbors – One Vegas Playground – Book now and enjoy all of these inclusions – NYNY: Free $10 Game Card at The Sporting House, 2-for-1 Breakfast at Il Fornaio, 2-for-1 Admission to The Roller Coaster, 2-for-1 Admission to ROK Vegas Nightclub,One Free Dessert at Nine Fine Irishmen (refer to NYNY Coupon Book for details)- Monte Carlo: Free Margarita with entrée at Diablo’s, 2 for 1 Buffet, Free shot with entry at Minus5 Ice Lounge, Buy 2 get 1 free Cupcakes at the Cupcakery, 2-for-1 “Mouth Watering Burger” at The Pub (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Oct 28, 2010 – Feb 28, 2011. Promo Code: XPRTYWB (Exp 2/28/11)

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This regal bronze statue greets guests at the entrance to the sleek new ARIA resort in Las Vegas. Room rates are 20% off this week.

Snap up some big discounts on Vegas hotel rooms during the 7-Day Sale from MGM Resorts happening this week. These special discounted rates — available at a number of their Las Vegas resorts — are yours when you use our featured promotion codes.

Looking for luxury? Choose the 20% off rate at ARIA and pay just $127.20 per night on select days to stay at the Strip’s newest high-end resort and the focal point of the new CityCenter development. Sleek, sophisticated rooms feature the most advanced guestroom technology in the world with touch screen controls for lighting, temperature adjustment and more.

The resort offers players a 150,000 square-foot casino featuring some of the latest slot machines on the market. Guests will also enjoy the three pools, 16 restaurants, 10 bars and lounges (including Haze nightclub) plus an 1,800-seat theater housing Viva ELVIS™, a tribute to the life and musical legacy of Elvis Presley from Cirque du Soleil®.  (Check out Cirque du Soleil’s newest show Viva ELVIS!)  Adjacent to the resort is the stunning Crystals retail development with its selection of exclusive stores and restaurants including Beso, the popular dining spot backed by Eva Longoria-Parker.

Other properties on sale this week include:

• Mandalay Bay
• Luxor
• Excalibur
• MGM Grand
• Mirage

This is a limited-time offer but reservations can be made for dates through January 31. Use the links and promotion codes below to take advantage of these special savings today.

ARIA ARIA “7 Day Sale.” Rates from $127.20/nt * ARIA would like to invite you to take advantage of an exclusive offer – Receive 20% off our Room and Suite rates, on select dates(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: AR7DAY (Exp 10/3/10)

MIRAGE Mirage “7 Day Sale” Rates from $64/nt. * Book Now and enjoy 20% off our lowest rates(*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jul 31, 2011. Promo Code: MIR7DAYW (Exp 10/4/10)

MANDALAY BAY Mandalay Bay “7 Day Sale” Rates from $71.99/nt. * Book your stay within the next 7 DAYS and enjoy up to 20% OFF(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: PA7DAY (Exp 10/3/10)

MGM GRAND MGM Grand Las Vegas “7 Day Sale!” * Maximum Vegas is at MGM Grand – You have seven days to make a one minute decision: Book your room with rates starting from $55/nt(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: 7DY1MN (Exp 10/3/10)

LUXOR Luxor “7 Day Special” *Rates starting at $38/nt (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: L7D927 (Exp 10/3/10)

EXCALIBUR Excalibur “7 DAY SALE” *Rates starting at $28/nt (*see site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 27, 2010 – Jan 31, 2011. Promo Code: X7D927 (Exp 10/3/10)

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Stay, dine and see a show at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas for less. This plush resort is offering great deals right now.

Mandalay Bay is one of our favorite Strip hotels in Las Vegas and everything from the rooms to the restaurants to tickets for the award-winning show, The Lion King, are on sale now!

From that first whiff of the pineapple coconut-scented lobby, we know we have arrived at Mandalay Bay, a lush Caribbean-themed resort on the Las Vegas Strip.  There are so many things to enjoy while staying here that there’s really no reason to venture out if a laid-back, relaxing trip is the goal.

Mandalay Bay “More for Less” Rates from $89.99/nt. *Includes: $25 Food and Beverage Credit, $100 Cabana Credit, 25% Off Spa Treatments, Complimentary Access to House of Blues Foundation Room, 50% off mid-week entry into Moorea Beach (Monday-Thursday,) 2-for-1 Original Margaritas at Hussong’s Mexican Cantina, and 2-for-1 Breakfast at House of Blues (Monday – Thursday) – (*See site for additional details and restrictions.) Good for travel select dates March 8 – Sept. 9, 2010. Promo Code: PHSPR10 (Exp 9/9/10).

Pool — Home to one of the best pool complexes in Las Vegas, the Mandalay Bay Beach Club is one of the big attractions drawing visitors from all over the world.  Located on 11 acres, Mandalay Bay Beach offers a wave pool, lazy river, three swimming pools, jogging track and 2,700 tons of real sand.  There’s even a beachside casino located just steps from the pool.

Restaurants — Sushi to steaks, burgers to pasta, Mandalay Bay has a fabulous array of restaurants and we have the promo code to get $25 worth of dining for just $2 right now.  Here are the hotel restaurants participating in this money-saving program:  (Click the name of the restaurant for more info and to purchase the certificates!)

Aureole – Home of the famous flying “wine angels,” this beautiful spot features a fabulous seasonal menu from Chef Charlie Palmer.  Be sure to leave room for dessert from the decadent sweets menu.

Mix In Las Vegas – Perched atop THE Hotel at the resort, MIX is one of the most beautiful dining spots in all of Vegas. Inside hangs the largest chandelier in the world with 15,000 hand-blown Murano glass balls plus a menu originally composed by French Master Chef Alain Ducasse and a balcony that offers the best sunset view of THE Strip.

Shanghai Lilly – We’ve heard good things about the eclectic Cantonese cuisine featuring some spicy Szechwan dishes plus the relaxing dining room looks perfect for kicking back and sharing a meal.

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood — If you love creamy clam chowder, garlicky steamed mussels and the freshest fish prepared in a variety of mouth-watering ways, then RM Seafood is for you. The casual downstairs bar and grill is our favorite place to order up a couple of ice cold beers and enjoy bowls of clams and mussels swimming in fragrant broth served with lots of crunchy cheese-topped country bread perfect for sopping up all that great liquid.

Raffles Cafe — Mandalay Bay’s 24-hour restaurant offers diners breakfast, lunch or dinner in a relaxed yet beautiful atmosphere.  From waffles to prime rib, this cafe has it all.

NEW to Restaurant.com — Mizuya Sushi and Sake and The Cafe plus The Noodle Shop all at Mandalay Bay!

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas.

Save on The Lion King – The Tony award-winning Broadway favorite, The Lion King, has been wowing audiences in Las Vegas with its soaring musical score, fantastic costumes and make-up and magical storyline since opening at Mandalay Bay.  Visit BestOfVegas.com and receive a Complimentary Upgrade to VIP seating (Your Price: $126.00, Regular Price: $177.25) or a Category 3 Upgrade to Category 2 (Your Price: $93.00, Regular Price: $133.25).

Room deal: For Best Rates at Mandalay Bay, Book Online!
Restaurant discounts: Click here for Restaurant.com Gift Certificates
Show tickets and more!: BestOfVegas.com

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Caesars Palace will turn their huge Roman Plaza into an ice palace for the Fourth of July.

If you’re heading to “Camp Las Vegas” (don’t you just love this year’s ad campaign!) for the Fourth of July you’ll find lots of special events planned to entertain you this weekend.  From celebrity-hosted pool parties to fireworks shows, Las Vegas will be flashier and more fun than ever.  Here are just some of the special events going on plus some links to get more info to turn your Las Vegas Fourth of July into a weekend to remember.

Caesars Palace will be the site of a “fire and ice” celebration as the hotel giant transforms its Roman Plaza into an ice palace then lights up the Strip with a fireworks show at 9 p.m. on July 4th.  The huge plaza area just in front of the hotel (behind Serendipity 3) will be transformed into a winter playground for the holiday weekend!  This cold zone will feature snowboarding and skiing on a four-story snow jump plus plenty of other 4th of July activities.

Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino will also host a 9 p.m. fireworks display originating from the hotel’s famed “Mandalay Bay Beach Club.”  A $25 cover charge on July 4th includes admission to the stunning pool area, the fireworks show plus music by Mystic Roots.

Station Casinos celebrates the Fourth of July with five of their casino properties offering free fireworks displays.   Fireworks displays — nine-minute shows at each location — will begin at 8:45 p.m. at Green Valley Ranch, Aliante Station, Red Rock Resort, Fiesta Rancho and Texas Station.

Check out these links for all the Fourth of July 2010 events coming to Las Vegas this weekend:

• “Best of Vegas“ has all the info on the Caesars Palace celebration plus tickets for shows, concerts and more.

• Vegas.com — Find all the special events and fireworks happening in Las Vegas at this comprehensive site.

• The Las Vegas NBC TV affiliate lists lots of July 4th events on this website page:  Fun Events for the Fourth of July!

Happy Fourth of July and stay cool my friends.

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Click the ad to go to ARIA's sale page.

It’s here…the ARIA Las Vegas room deal.  In an exclusive 72-hour sale,  MGM is offering rooms at the newest hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip for 20% off the usual rates. These luxury Strip rooms and suites can be booked for trips from June 21, 2010 – September 30, 2010.

ARIA Resort & Casino is the centerpiece of the newly-opened CityCenter development.  This 67-acre parcel of prime Strip real estate — site of the largest privately financed construction project in United States history — is now home to a “city within a city,” an urban landscape of shining skyscrapers, public art displays, an elevated train, residential condos, luxury shopping at the Crystals and even a “pocket park.”  (Our full article and photos of CityCenter here.)

Check it out because the sale ends on June 23, 2010.

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Grab some great Las Vegas room deals at Strip icon MGM Grand and family-fav Circus Circus LV during this limited-time sale.

Here are more great offers in the on-going summer sales promotion program from Strip giant, MGM Resorts International, the new name for MGM Mirage. These “best rates on Las Vegas hotel rooms” are available to book just until midnight on June 19 so you’ll want to take advantage of these offers quickly.

MGM GRAND Discounts — In this latest offer, guests can book at rates as low as just $55 and get an upgrade to a Bungalow Suite for just $5 more per night! According to MGM, the Bungalow King Suite is a “comfortable 675 square foot petite suite with an over-sized bedroom connected to an extended living area, features a conversational area with a plush couch, chair and coffee table. Bungalow suites are available with one king bed and include a separate tub and shower with a double sink vanity. All rooms feature wireless high-speed internet access.”

MGM Grand Las Vegas link: “72-Hour Sale!” Rates from $55/nt. *Book your limited time exclusive offer now and receive: * Discounted rates starting from $55, $5 upgrade to a Bungalow Suite (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 16, 2010 – Mar 31, 2011. Promo Code: MKT431 (Exp 6/19/10).

Circus Circus Las Vegas — Another Las Vegas Strip casino property featured this week is Circus Circus LV where guests can get an additional 30% off on already-reduced room prices. One of the Strip’s first “theme” resorts, CCLV beckons families with features such as the AdventurDome, America’s larget indoor theme park and a “2010 Best of Vegas” winner for Best Arcade and Best Family Attraction.  A quick check showed mid-week room rates as low as $21 – $23 per night with the promo code!

Circus Circus Las Vegas link: “3-Day Sale” Rates from $22.70/nt. Limited time only! *Stay with us now through May 31, 2011 and receive up to an additional 30% discount off our already reduced online rates(*see site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 16, 2010 – May 31, 2011. Promo Code: XJUN33D (Exp 6/19/10).

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Free video poker classes plus a low $42 room deal make South Point Casino in Las Vegas a great summer stay value.

South Point Casino in Las Vegas will be hosting a series of free video poker classes this summer featuring pro player, author and columnist Bob Dancer. The 10-week session begins June 15 with classes held every Tuesday at the casino’s Showroom. Classes start at 1 p.m. with a beginner’s class from 1 to 2:30 p.m. followed by an intermediate class from 3 to 4 p.m. The schedule changes during the final four weeks of the session when there will be one class beginning at 1 p.m.  The schedule along with topics and more information can be found on www.bobdancer.com.

Video poker is one of the most popular casino games and learning proper video poker strategy can have a huge impact on your bottom line.  Different games require different “holds” and knowing which cards to keep when playing a specific game version can spell whether you come out ahead or you let the casino keep your cash.  Luck  will always play a part but having a clear understanding of the game will give you a better outcome on your video poker play.

During this summer’s class run, Dancer will teach two games for the very first time and those are the popular 8-5 Bonus Poker Quick Quads and the 15-9-4-4-3 Deuces Wild version of Ultimate X Poker. Both versions — along with many other favorite video poker games — are from leading manufacturer, Action Gaming.  (If you haven’t played these games, check out the company’s videopoker.com site where you can play video poker for free.)

Stay and Play details:  Hotels.com is offering rooms at South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa for as low as $42 per night PLUS receive a FREE VIP coupon savings booklet containing hundreds of dollars in discounts at spots on and off the Strip including the popular Forum Shops at Caesars Palace.

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ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter Las Vegas glows in the late day sun.

Updated promo code available!  Click here to get the latest details on “Aria rooms on Sale.”

The newest addition to the Las Vegas Strip, ARIA Resort &Casino, is the latest property to be featured in this summer’s hotel room promotion from MGM Mirage: the “72-Hour Sale” event.  ARIA is the focal point of the casino giant’s massive CityCenter project located on the Strip between the Bellagio and Monte Carlo hotels.  (A monorail runs among the three properties making it easy for guests to move around in the summer heat.)

Featuring the requisite host of fine dining celeb chef outposts including such digs as Jean Georges Steakhouse from the award-winning Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Sage from Vegas newcomer (and James Beard winner) Shawn McClain plus a stylish ultra-pool, Liquid, luxury spa and the hip-shaking, toe-tapping Viva ELVIS™ by Cirque du Soleil®, ARIA offers guests a plethora of activities.  There’s also a 150,000 square-foot casino to keep visitors entertained.  A high-end poker room named after pro player Phil Ivey recently opened in the casino.

Reservations start at $103 per night (not including taxes or resort fees) for select dates from now through September 10, 2010. That’s a 20% savings off published rates. The room sale is for a limited time only so book before June 9, 2010. Click the link below and use the promotion code ARLO20.

ARIA “72 Hour Sale” Rates from $103.20/nt. *Receive 20% off our Room and Suite rates, on select dates (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 7 – Sep 30, 2010. Promo Code: ARLO20 (Exp 6/9/10).

Check out this description of Cirque du Soleil’s newest show Viva ELVIS!

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The Mirage Las Vegas is a great Strip destination.

Las Vegas hotel specials for summer are starting to pop!  Check out this limited-time offer (and we do mean limited!) from MGM property and Strip icon The Mirage.  One of the first luxury properties on the Las Vegas Strip, the Mirage Las Vegas offers guests a number of reasons to both stay and play at the home of the famous fiery volcano show.

Mirage Restaurants

With such favorites as BLT Burger at the Mirage and its justly-famous juicy burgers and decidedly adult milk shakes (try the “Campfire Marshmallows” shake) to the coolly chic interior of the hotel’s Cravings buffet, the Mirage offers a wide-array of dining choices.  Dessert lovers won’t want to miss the New York-style cheesecake at the Vegas outpost of Carnegie Deli.

Bare Pool

What would a Strip hotel be without its own “ultra-pool?”  Bare is the European-style pool at The Mirage and features an expansive pool plus two “dipping” pools, one of which features a see-through wall.

Shows/Entertainment at The Mirage

Take a trip back to the groovy days of the Beatles with the Cirque du Soleil® production of LOVE, the highly-touted musical production that has both critics and show-goers dancing in the aisles.

Jet nightclub at The Mirage is open Thursdays – Saturdays and features celebrity-attended events as well as all-night dancing and partying to the beat of Vegas’ best DJ’s.

Mirage Hotel discount promotion code:

Mirage “72 Hour Sale” Rates from $63/nt. *Book NOW and receive 20% off our lowest rates (*See site for additional details and restrictions). May 26, 2010 – Apr 30, 2011. Promo Code: MIRAGELTO2 (Exp 5/28/10).

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Barry Manilow's new CD, "The Greatest Love Songs of All Time," hit the streets today.

Promising “something new” and a production “definitely not to be missed,” Barry Manilow will begin a new two-year stint at Paris Las Vegas on March 5. The mega-hit singer will perform 78 shows each year in the 1500-seat Paris Theater at the Harrah’s-owned property and tickets for the new Manilow show – including tickets for opening night! – are available online and at the Paris box office.

Manilow has been out and about quite a bit lately with appearances on one of Conan O’Brien’s last “Tonight Show” episodes, an interview on “Access Hollywood” as well as hosting his very own QVC special on January 19 to hawk his newest song collection, The Greatest Love Songs of All Time.  This newest CD dropped today and is already #10 on the Amazon sales list.

The new show at Paris comes on the heels of his long-time run at the Las Vegas Hilton which began in February 2005 and claimed gross ticket sales of more than $70 million over the years. The new show is under the direction of Jeffrey Hornaday (Flashdance, A Chorus Line, High School Musical), and Manilow promises an all-new production for his legion of “Fanilows.”

Check out Ticket Network for Barry Manilow Tickets Las Vegas.

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CityCenter's towering Vdara Hotel shines brightly in the Vegas sun.

Like a Broadway debut from the city it’s trying to emulate, CityCenter on the Las Vegas Strip is opening…softly. Beginning last week with the December 1st grand opening party at the 1,495-suite Vdara Hotel, project CityCenter continues to open piece by glittering piece with the Crystals retail and dining complex and the new Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas now open as well. All three properties are, however, a prelude to the main act: the 61-floor MGM MIRAGE Aria Resort & Casino featuring over 4,000 rooms, a new Cirque du Soleil show – Viva Elvis – plus eateries from such well-known chefs as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Julian Serrano. Aria will open December 16th.

CityCenter is not just another high-end gaming property opening in Las Vegas. This 67-acre parcel of prime Strip real estate — site of the biggest privately financed construction project in United States history — is now home to a “city within a city,” an urban landscape of shining skyscrapers, public art displays, an elevated train, residential condos and even a “pocket park.”

We visited last week and got a first glimpse of the Vdara Hotel and the Crystals shopping area. Both are striking examples of the city-chic contemporary architecture guiding the entire project. All sharp angles and shimmering surfaces, the thin December sunlight bounced from one building to the next creating an urban canyon of sorts.  And, honestly, having lived in D.C. as well as having spent considerable time in NYC, we have to say that we really did feel like we were in a major metropolitan neighborhood.

We entered CityCenter via the new pedestrian walkway running from the Bellagio into the Vdara Hotel. It is a striking contrast to go from the lush Italianate surroundings of the Bellagio and into the stark yet stunning halls of the ultra-modern Vdara. (Be sure to check out the bar at Silk Road restaurant before continuing on into the hotel’s reception area.)

Bar Vdara is a cozy spot for a cocktail (albeit an expensive cocktail )and affords a great view of the interior courtyard of CityCenter which features a Nancy Rubins sculpture in a starburst design composed of castoff canoes. (Read more about the artist and see a similar sculpture here.)

The Crystals retail and dining area can be accessed from the Strip via a new pedestrian bridge and walkway (across from Planet Hollywood) or by tram (the “elevated train” mentioned earlier) from the neighboring Bellagio. (The tram continues on to the Monte Carlo conveniently linking all three MGM MIRAGE properties: Bellagio, CityCenter and the Monte Carlo.)

At Crystals, we found a lot of construction still underway with only about 40% of the retail area occupied by stores. This is high-end (think nosebleed-level) shopping. From the three-story flagship Louis Vuitton boutique ( a Strip-side LED light show will take place every night from dusk to dawn) to Roberto Cavalli, Mikimoto pearls, Hermes and Prada, this is destination shopping at its finest. BESO, a fine-dining spot from actress Eva Longoria Parker with celeb chef Todd English in charge of the kitchen, is open on the first floor. The spot also features, Eve, a swank nightclub.  Additional restaurants from English, Wolfgang Puck and other top toques will be opening in the future.

Here are some pics from our recent trip PLUS the latest promotion codes and links for getting the best room rates at both Aria and Vdara.  Also, check out the CityCenter website for more information on the project.

The multi-level Crystals shopping and dining area at CityCenter Las Vegas.

Opening December 16, the new Aria Resort & Casino is the crown jewel of CityCenter Las Vegas.

Veer Towers form a background for the new Crystals shopping area at CityCenter Las Vegas.

Bar Vdara at CityCenter is highly-recommended for people-watching.

There's a sculptural feel to the burnished metal portico marking the entrance into the Vdara Hotel.

The CityCenter tram runs past the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas and Veer Towers.

Vdara “Winter Special” Rates from $139/nt (2nt Min). *Stay Two Nights at Vdara Hotel & Spa at a Special Introductory Rate from $139 and Receive a $50 Resort Credit (*See site for additional detail and restrictions). Dec 1, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: VRLVCVA (Exp 4/1/10)

ARIA “Winter Special” Rates from $159/nt (2nt Min). *Enjoy this incredible offer at ARIA, MGM MIRAGE’s newest resort-casino at CityCenter – Stay Two Nights at a Special Rate from $159 per night and Receive a $75 Resort Credit (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Dec 17, 2009 – Apr 1, 2010. Promo Code: AR159G75 (Exp 4/1/10)

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Vegas is wooing out-of-town shoppers with free tickets to shows like Blue Man Group at The Venetian.

Here’s how to roll three of my favorite things — Las Vegas, shopping and free — all into one sentence:  Do your holiday shopping in Las Vegas this year and get free show tickets.  No kidding.  Non-Nevada residents who shop from 11/29 through 12/13/2009 and spend $500 or more at participating retail shopping areas such as the brand-new Crystals at CityCenter, the Forum Shops at Caesars, the Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood, the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian and even the stores at the Las Vegas Premium Outlet mall can qualify for two complimentary tickets to shows like Phantom at the Venetian, Peepshow at PH, Donny & Marie Osmond and more.  Find all the details at VisitLasVegas.com.

Speaking of CityCenter, the sure-to-be-spectacular new Aria and Vdara resorts are both taking reservations and you can get special rates when you use the promo codes plus these links:

Aria: ARIA “Winter Special” Rates from $159/nt (2nt Min). *Enjoy this incredible offer at ARIA, MGM MIRAGE’s newest resort-casino at CityCenter – Stay Two Nights at a Special Rate from $159 per night and Receive a $75 Resort Credit (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Dec 17, 2009 – Apr 1, 2010. Promo Code: AR159G75 (Exp 4/1/10).

Vdara: Vdara “Winter Special” Rates from $139/nt (2nt Min). *Stay Two Nights at Vdara Hotel & Spa at a Special Introductory Rate from $139 and Receive a $50 Resort Credit (*See site for additional detail and restrictions). Dec 1, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: VRLVCVA (Exp 4/1/10).

Also, take advantage of more great rates this winter by booking a room at MGM Grand with this cool offer –

MGM Grand Las Vegas “Holiday Spree” — Rates from $75 per night. *Promo includes: $35 Dining credit, $25 Spa services credit, and 15% off retail purchases. (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Nov 4, 2009 – Mar 31, 2010. Promo Code: MKT320 (Exp 1/31/10).

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Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas will host special performances by Garth Brooks beginning in December.

Country superstar Garth Brooks is ending his retirement in a deal with Steve Wynn where the singer will perform a  limited number of engagements at the Encore Theatre in Las Vegas.  The all-acoustic performances begin with a single weekend in December and will continue on select dates throughout the term of the 5-year arrangement.

The price for tickets (said to be a point of discussion between Wynn and Brooks) is a very “reasonable-for-Vegas” $125 plus a $5 service charge and a $13 tax to equal a total of $143 and go on sale this Saturday, October 24 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific (9:00 a.m. MT, 10:00 a.m. CT and 11:00 a.m. ET). Tickets are available by calling 702.770.1000 and online at the Wynn Las Vegas box office.

The following weekend dates have been released with all performances happening at the Encore Theatre at Wynn Las Vegas Resort:

December 2009:  11 – 13

January 2010:  1 – 3 and 22 – 24

February 2010:  12 – 14 and 26 – 28

Performance times are:  Fridays – 8:00pm; Saturdays – 8:00pm & 10:30pm; and Sundays – 8:00pm.

More information about ticketing can be found on the official Garth Brooks website plus there’s lots more info on the deal in a good article on CMT News online:  “NASHVILLE SKYLINE: Garth Brooks Goes Back to Work.”

You can check out room rates here for  Encore at Wynn Las Vegas and for Wynn Las Vegas where we found rates ranging from $235 on up with a $75 resort credit.  There are lots of options nearby including TI – Treasure Island Hotel and Casino ($101 – $139,) or The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino and The Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino at the Venetian for $219 per night each plus slot credit of $50 and dining credits as well.

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Harrah's will host the "Great Gift Wrap Up" from November 12 - 16, 2009. Another event happens at Caesars Palace in December.

If you’ve been playing Las Vegas this year and using your all-important players club cards, you’ve probably been racking up “gift points” at lots of casinos up and down the Strip.  Now is the time to make plans to cash in those annual points by attending the big “gift-o-rama” events held each year by the various participating casino companies.  Make your room reservations now since you must be there in person to cash in your points and these special shopping days bring in lots of visitors to Vegas.

Here are the dates and venues for this year’s big gift giveaways in Las Vegas:

Harrah’s Entertainment will be hosting their fourth annual “Great Gift Wrap Up” on November 12th – 16th, 2009 at Harrah’s Las Vegas and again from December 3rd – 7th, 2009 at Caesars Palace.  Go to GreatGiftWrapUp.com for details plus a look at this year’s merchandise catalog. You can even get your point total.

MGM Mirage’s popular “Holiday Gift Shoppe Event” will be taking place at participating Las Vegas properties from November 28 – December 13, 2009.  Check out this special event at the company’s PlayersClub.com site and click on the “Holiday Gift Shoppe” logo for gift ideas and a special count-down clock.

Grazie Club members can cash in the points they’ve earned by playing at both the Venetian and Palazzo resorts during the “Grazie Gifts” Holiday Shopping Extravaganza in November.  From November 20 – 29, 2009, players here can choose from such high-end names as Tag Heuer, Ralph Lauren, Coach and more in exchange for their points.  Get the details on this event at Venetian.com and click on the “Grazie” tab then select “Grazie Gifts” as your destination.

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New York New York in Las Vegas celebrates Halloween with great room deals and the "Zombie Precinct" attraction.

There’s still plenty of time to book a trip to Las Vegas for Halloween weekend and with rates this good — weekend rates, at that! — we can’t find any reason not to go.  I have been going to Vegas for Halloween for years and I truly cannot remember when I last saw rates this low! Book these hot deals on Strip hotel rooms and you’ll still have plenty of cash left over for a really good costume and lots of Halloween candy, too.

Last-minute deals on Las Vegas hotel rooms include this smokin’ offer from MGM Grand: The “Halloween Treats” room offer includes a $35 beverage credit good at hotel hotspots like Studio 54 and one of our favorite spots for an intimate drink, the elegant Rouge Lounge, PLUS 2-for-1 buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner at their Grand Buffet. Check out these amazing rates:  $67 for Thursday, 10/29; $110 on Friday, 10/30; just $118 on Saturday 10/31 and $84 for Sunday, 11/1.  Use this  link — MGM Grand — and Promotion Code “MKT329″ to get this great deal.

Across the street, check out New York New York “ZOMBIE PRECINCT” Oct 8 – 31, 2009 and the hotel’s big Halloween weekend promotion that includes: Park Avenue Strip View Room Weekend, 2 Haunted Bridge Admissions, 2 Rok Vegas Nightclub Admissions, and 2 Roller Coaster Passes (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Oct 9 – 31, 2009. Use Promo Code: ZOMBIEWE (Exp 10/29/09) and get it all starting at just $199 per night, 2 night minimum.

Other really great deals include the Flamingo Las Vegas ranging from $41 on Thursday to $109 on Saturday night; downtown favorite the Golden Nugget from $58 to just $99 for the weekend nights; and mid-Strip Harrah’s property, Paris Las Vegas, for rates from $56 to the $136 tab for the Saturday night stay. These and other best deals on Las Vegas hotel rooms are available online at i4Vegas.com at: Great Vegas Hotels from $20!

*All rates quoted are pre-tax and do not include any hotel fees or add-ons.  Check each deal for any fine print or other restrictions.

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In-house aging is one key to the juicy tender steaks at STRIPSTEAK LV.

I recently had lunch with a friend of mine (a professional food writer and guest reviewer here) who made the most spot-on comment I’ve ever heard when it comes to Chef Michael Mina’s food: “The man is a wizard with potatoes!” So, you’re thinking if this is a review on STRIPSTEAK LV, why do I care what the chef does with potatoes? It’s the meat that matters not the sides. Well, in this case, while the steaks are more than worthy, it is definitely the spuds that make for a memorable meal. And, did we mention that said spuds are free? No kidding, these crisp crunchy beauties come courtesy of the chef… au gratis… n/c.

First, the restaurant itself: Located at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas, the space is sleek and edgy with enough hard surfaces to make sound somewhat of an issue if you were hoping for an intimate dinner for two.* But keep in mind, the sound bouncing from walls to ceiling comes from people having fun! This is a great spot for celebrations like bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthday bashes and other group events or for couples looking to dine in a high-energy atmosphere. (We had a terrific time chatting away with the couple at the table next to us who also happened to be from Phoenix. Yeah, it’s that kind of place.)

This trio of spectacular fries is presented au gratis with dinner at the winning STRIPSTEAK LV.

The fries: Okay, back to those marvelous complimentary potatoes. After ordering drinks (wine for P.B., a draft for me) and dinner, the server brought out this very cool serving stand filled with three tubs of perfectly cooked-in-duck-fat fries – herb-flecked, paprika-dusted and saffron garlic – along with three dipping sauces: housemade ketchup, perky BBQ sauce and our hands-down favorite, a luxurious truffle cream sauce I would’ve eaten with a spoon! The serving is so large we couldn’t finish it but, oh, how we tried.

Dinner: For an appetizer, we chose to share the Maine lobster fritters, a dish we unfortunately wouldn’t order again. The batter was too heavy for the delicate seafood flavor to come through and the bacon mentioned in the menu description seemed to be AWOL from our dish. In hindsight, we would have merrily munched on the fries with our drinks and ordered a salad to share with the yummy warm potato focaccia (served in a cast iron skillet) before the main course. For our steaks, we chose the American Kobe beef – the Rib Eye ($64) for P.B. and the Rib Cap ($65) for me. (STRIPSTEAK also offers Japanese A5 Wagyu beef at Market Price.) Chef Mina’s steaks are heralded for their cooking method which entails a long slow-poach in clarified butter and then a quick turn on a high heat (think 1,000 degrees!) grill. The process renders a steak that is meltingly tender inside with a beautifully crusty exterior. As we expected, our steaks were superb. As a side, we shared a de-lish mountain of creamed spinach topped with crumbled bacon bits. (Note to self: next time we eat here, we walk back to our room at the Bellagio.)

Well-marbled and perfectly cooked, the rib cap American Kobe steak is a terrific menu choice.

Dessert: Overkill for sure but the “Beignets with Macallan 18-Year Butterscotch Pudding” were just way too tempting to resist and we’re so glad we didn’t. Plump, fluffy pillows of warm donut dipped in scotch-flavored caramel pudding…uh, what’s not to like? (Do be aware that the liquor really comes through in this decidedly “adult-flavored” dessert.)

Service and other highlights:

Excellent, attentive service even on a busy Saturday night during prime time dining hours of 8 – 10 pm.

Another freebie courtesy of STRIPSTEAK — A bag of gourmet dark-chocolate-drizzled caramel corn made in-house sends you out the door.

I have to say that I knew we were in for a great meal when Las Vegas local, UNLV professor and famed foodie, Patti Shock, highly recommended the place to me via Twitter. (If you are interested in food and Las Vegas you should follow her.  @PattiShock)

The best: We used a $25 certificate purchased for $2 at Restaurant.com (use coupon code “FOUR” and the link below) to pay for part of the meal.  At the restautant, be sure to present it early on so they have time to validate the certificate before the check comes.

STRIPSTEAK definitely merits a top spot on our list of “Best Las Vegas Steakhouses.”

(*Looking for a romantic spot to dine? Try Fleur De Lys or Mix In Las Vegas, both located at Mandalay Bay and both participate in the Restaurant.com certificate program.)

Save 80% off on every $25 Gift Certificate order. Use code “FOUR” and pay just $2 through 10/12/09 only at Restaurant.com.

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Starting October 7 and continuing through December 13, tabloid TV host (and, I kid you not, former Cincinnati mayor and Ohio congressional candidate,) Jerry Springer, will emcee the new variety show. Headlining the show is former chicken catcher now million dollar show winner, singer Kevin Springer, who will star in the new production along with other favorite acts from the show. (We thought the best acts from this year’s show were Recycled Percussion and the weirdly-named Acrodunk.  And, really, are we the only ones who thought opera singer, Barbara Padilla, had a great back story but as an opera singer isn’t exactly what we consider a “Vegas act?”)

Springer will host the 10-week run of America’s Got Talent Live!, with shows running every Wednesday through Sunday at Planet Hollywood’s 1300-seat CHI Showroom. Tickets range from $64 – $104 but we have seen mailers from PHo touting 2-for-1 ticket deals with certain room packages.  Or check out this deal from i4Vegas — Planet Hollywood from $69 per night!

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A stunning view of Paris Las Vegas as seen from our 25th floor room at the Bellagio.

“Where to stay in Las Vegas” — Hotel Review — The Bellagio:

After our recent three-night stay at the Bellagio, we’re happy to report that the resort remains one of the best hotels in Las Vegas. From the perfect center-Strip location to the recently-remodeled rooms; the posh selection of shops and restaurants and the sophisticated casino; the Bellagio is a worthwhile splurge for Las Vegas visitors.

We’d recently heard rumors that the Bellagio – open since 1998 — was showing its age but if so, we certainly didn’t see it in the maintenance of the hotel or the room we were given. Our room was luscious and restful: sage green, soft golds and creamy ivory tones in the bedding and upholstery were set off by the dark woods used for the furniture and bath vanity. Adding immensely to our enjoyment of the resort was the magnificent view of the Strip and the Bellagio fountains which we had from our 25th floor front-and-center perch. The biggest complaint we had about the room was the small outdated TV but since we don’t spend much time on vacation watching the tube, it wasn’t a huge issue for us.

Bellagio restaurants

We love the restaurant selection at the Bellagio: Olives by Todd English (read our review of Olives here); Palio for a quick breakfast; the decadent Jean-Philippe Maury patisserie; the Bellagio’s own buffet plus the sunny Café Bellagio overlooking the pool and the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are a few of our favorites when in town.

The pool complex is perfect for a sunny summer day and offers lots of shady spots courtesy of the many trees and well-placed umbrellas.  Pool aficionados may want to reserve one of the large cabanas ringing the main pool.

A “Best Bet” on the Strip

With its great location, plush surroundings plus all the amenities of a AAA Five Diamond Award Las Vegas hotel we can confidently recommend the Bellagio to our readers looking for a posh Vegas getaway. Take a Virtual Tour of Bellagio here.

The new CityCenter construction provides a back-drop to the Bellagio's pool complex.

A comfy king-sized bed plus soft colors make for a restful stay at the luxurious Bellagio Las Vegas.

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Take in a show this fall then head to the new Pink's at Planet Hollywood for one of their legendary dogs.

We’re starting a new feature this week — Friday Finds – featuring news about Las Vegas that we find interesting plus lots of great deals on Las Vegas hotel discounts, travel packages, shows, concerts, restaurants and more.  Take a look at what we’ve seen and heard this week:

We’re really digging some of the shows planned for this fall at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s “The Joint.”  Tickets are on sale now for Van Morrison (September 25,) Creed in concert on September 27, actor/comedian Dane Cook on both October 9th and 10th at 8:30pm plus one of our all-time favorites, Bob Dylan, on Sunday, October 18th at 8 pm.

At Mandalay Bay, Britney Spears is back with her “Circus” tour; this time featuring special guests Jordin Sparks and Kristinia DeBarge.  Special room + ticket deals are available at these properties:

Luxor “Britney Spears” Concert and Room Package. *Package Price of $154.00 plus tax and resort fee on Sunday September 27th includes: One night stay in a Tower Deluxe Room and Two tickets to Britney Spears in concert at the Mandalay Bay Event Center on Sunday, September 27 at 8pm (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 24 – 30, 2009. Promo Code: PBRIT (Exp 9/24/09)

Mandalay Bay “Britney Spears” Rates from $194/nt. *The Final Act of the Circus Tour Starring Britney Spears at Mandalay Bay Sunday, September 27 –Book Mandalay Bay and receive 2 tickets to see Britney Spears Live in Concert on Sunday, September 27 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Sep 22 – 30, 2009. Promo Code: PBRITH (Exp 10/1/09).

Also at the Mandalay Bay Events Center this fall, look for Grammy® -winning superstar Justin Timberlake who’s bringing his “Justin Timberlake and Friends, a Special Evening Benefiting Shriners Hospitals for Children” event to the stage at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Saturday, October 17, 2009 at 8 PM.  Ticket prices for this charity concert range from $100 – $250. Check out tickets here: Justin Timberlake Las Vegas

On the restaurant front, don’t forget that Pink’s in now open at Planet Hollywood. The hot dog haven (which has been in business since 1939)  has a loyal following — and a sometimes hour-long wait — at its original location in the city of Hollywood.

This week’s restaurant.com deal: Take 50% off w/every $25 Gift Certificate order! Use code MENU and pay $5 thru 9/8/09 at Restaurant.com. And just a hint, when you do use these certificates toward your meal, be sure to give it to the server early on so they have time to validate the certificate number before you get your final bill.

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Stratta will be one of the restaurants at Wynn Las Vegas honoring Julia Child at Restaurant Week Las Vegas 2009. (Photo/content copyright RoyallyFlushed.com 2009)

Masters in their own right, top chefs at Wynn Las Vegas and sister property, Encore, will be paying tribute to culinary icon Julia Child throughout next week’s Las Vegas Restaurant Week. Chefs like Alessandro Stratta, chief toque at Wynn’s two-star Michelin rated French restaurant ALEX and the more casual rustic Italian restaurant, STRATTA, will be offering special and specially-priced menus based on dishes associated with Julia Child and her impact on American cuisine.

Chef Stratta, who met and cooked for Child during his run at Renoir at Mirage Las Vegas, will be preparing his rendition of lobster Newberg at ALEX while at STRATTA, he’ll be offering a special version of coq au vin, the classic dish of chicken, mushroom, onions, bacon and herbs cooked in red wine and served with egg noodles. Diners will be paying at most $50.09 to dine at these and other top Las Vegas dining spots during the national charitable event. A portion of the proceeds from Restaurant Week Las Vegas will benefit Three Square Food Bank, a partner organization of Feeding America, which is working to end hunger in Southern Nevada.

Also at Wynn Las Vegas, award-winning chef Paul Bartolotta of Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare will draw on his experience of cooking for Child more than six times when he prepares moules a la mariniere along with gnocchi alla pariginia grainati al formaggi—sumptuous pasta pillows filled with cheese.

At The Country Club – A New American Steakhouse, diners can indulge in a number of Child-inspired creations including one of my personal favorites, coquilles St. Jacques a la Parisienne, a dish that features plump scallops and earthy mushrooms in a decadent white wine sauce. Chef of The Country Club, Carlos Guia, also has experience cooking for Child and in the August issue of Wynn Resort’s newsletter said this — “Her visit to Lutèce was both unexpected and truly special. Before leaving, she took the time to come into the kitchen, thank us personally and tell us how much she enjoyed her meal,” says Chef Guía.

Chef Mark LoRusso, the man in charge at the Encore-located Botero will be channeling Julia Child with his preparation of sole a la Normandie, a particularly scrumptious dish featuring the delicate fish alongside mussels and shrimp in a wine-infused sauce. Having tasted what LoRusso can do with Dover sole, this is no doubt a dish not to be missed.  Check out our review of Botero.

Other Wynn Resorts dining establishments participating in Restaurant Week include Sinatra, Society Café and Switch at Encore and Daniel Boulud Brasserie, Okada and SW Steakhouse at Wynn Las Vegas.

A complete list of participating Restaurant Week establishments may be found by visiting www.threesquare.org.

80% off w/every $25 Gift Cert. order. Use code TASTE. Pay $2 thru 8/31/09 at Restaurant.com.

If you are not reading this post in a feed reader or at http://www.RoyallyFlushed.com then the site you are reading is illegally publishing copyrighted material. Contact me at c.c.royal@royallyflushed.com PLEASE. All text and photographs in this post are the original creations & property of the author unless otherwise noted. © 2008-2009 RoyallyFlushed.com

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"MGM Grand restaurant SeaBlue will be just one of the top dining spots participating in next week's Las Vegas Restaurant Week." Photo/content copyright 2009 RoyallyFlushed.com

Restaurant Week Las Vegas starts just one week from now and brings with it your chance to try some of the city’s best – and we mean absolute BEST – restaurants for a fixed price of $20.09, $30.09 or a high (we think “low”) of $50.09. Running from August 31 through Sept. 6, more than 50 of the city’s top dining establishments will participate in the annual event which benefits Three Square Food Bank, a partner organization of Feeding America. Working to end hunger in Southern Nevada, a portion of all Restaurant Week sales will benefit Three Square.

When we say best, we aren’t kidding. Take a look at just some of the top restaurants (link to a list of all participating restaurants at the end of the post) that will be firing up the stoves for this national charitable event:

Wynn/Encore: Alex, Botero, Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare, Daniel Boulud Brasserie

MGM Grand: Cat House, Diego, Pearl Chinese Restaurant, SeaBlue

Caesars Palace: Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, Bradley Ogden

Palazzo/Venetian: Pinot Brasserie, Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro

Mandalay Bay: miX, Fleur de Lys (a favorite of ours,) RM Seafood, Aureole

Bellagio: Prime Steakhouse, Café Bellagio

In addition to the special pricing on select meals, many of the city’s best resorts are also offering Restaurant Week diners exclusive entertainment, spa and overnight packages.

For instance, MGM Grand is offering deluxe accommodations and a tasting menu for two starting at just $159 at any one of their signature restaurants including L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Nobhill Tavern, SeaBlue, Italian favorite FiAMMA, Diego, Pearl, Shibuya and the highly-rated Tom Colicchio restaurant, Craftsteak.

At Bellagio, the “Unforgettable Night” package is just $178 per person and includes a ticket to “O™” by Cirque du Soleil®, a prix fixe dinner menu at FIX or Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge (terrific sushi!), a complimentary drink at Caramel Bar & Lounge as well as complimentary entrance to the high-energy nightclub, The Bank.

At Mandalay Bay, Aureole, Fleur de Lys, miX, Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood and StripSteak will all offer specially priced three and four-course tasting menus to pair nicely with the resort’s overnight packages. Both Mandalay Bay and THEhotel will offer special room rates for Restaurant Week visitors that include a dining credit to the House of Blues Restaurant plus other resort goodies.

There are no “tickets” but reservations should be made in advance if you want to secure your seat at the table for what will most definitely be a busy week at participating restaurants.

A complete list of participating Restaurant Week establishments may be found by visiting www.threesquare.org.

Tomorrow, see what the chefs at Wynn and Encore have planned for Restaurant Week Las Vegas.

MGM Grand Las Vegas “Maximum Escape” Rates from $69.99/nt. *Plus, $35 Activity Credit (per stay), 2 Line passes to Studio 54 or Tabu, and 25% off Spa Services (*See site for additional details and restrictions). Jun 23, 2009 – May 31, 2010. Promo Code: MKT205 (Exp 12/30/09)

Bellagio Hotel Promotions

Special Online Promotions at Mandalay Bay Las Vegas

If you are not reading this post in a feed reader or at http://www.RoyallyFlushed.com then the site you are reading is illegally publishing copyrighted material. Contact me at c.c.royal@royallyflushed.com PLEASE. All text and photographs in this post are the original creations & property of the author unless otherwise noted. © 2008-2009 RoyallyFlushed.com

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The Crystals in Las Vegas will open its doors to shoppers on December 3. (Photo/content property of www.RoyallyFlushed.com)

So much has happened since our January report on the happenings at MGM Mirage’s CityCenter Las Vegas that what we’ve decided to do is post our newest CityCenter photos and then give some highlights of the project along with a list of websites/articles you can go to for more info.

Aria Resort & Casino

Scheduled to open December 16, Aria is taking room reservations now at their new website. Click around the ARIA Home Page and you’ll find photos of the rooms, a section on some of the chefs and restaurants planned plus info on the new “Elvis” show at Aria which, to quote the website, comes from the “creative geniuses at Cirque du Soleil® (who) have created a new show exclusively for ARIA. The production pays tribute to Elvis’ music and life, fusing dance and acrobatics, live music and iconic tracks, nostalgia and modernity, high technology and raw emotion. In short, the show will be in Elvis’ image: powerful, sexy, whimsical and truly unique.”

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Las Vegas

This 47-story non-gaming hotel features 227 residences plus 392 Adam D. Tihany-designed rooms and suites with contemporary decor and “subtle oriental touches.”  The 23rd-floor Sky Lobby is just one of the luxurious design elements guests will encounter when staying at the new hotel.  Check out the Mandarin Oriental Hotel website for artist’s renderings of the rooms, the soaring lobby and an exclusive online brochure.  Opening date is currently scheduled for December 4th and the hotel will begin taking reservations on August 17th.

A new bridge constructed over the Strip will give pedestrians easy access to the massive CityCenter Las Vegas project. (Photo/content property of RoyallyFlushed.com)

The Crystals Retail Complex

More than 500,000 square-feet of retail and dining space will open December 3rd in this stunning shopping complex fronting the Las Vegas Strip.  High-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, TIFFANY & CO., jeweler H. Stern, apparel store Marni and luxury men’s retailer/designer Ermenegildo Zegna will be among the exceptional brands dotting the corridors of the contemporary space.  A French brasserie from CelebuChef extraordinaire Wolfgang Puck will join Katana, a sushi/Robatayaki concept (and L.A. favorite) from the same restaurant group that currently operates Las Vegas restaurants Sushi Roku and BOA Steakhouse.  Read more here about the Crystals.

Vdara Condo-Hotel

The newest rumor has it that Vdara’s lackluster sales may push the project into a holding pattern while developers try to sell more of the Veers Towers and Mandarin Oriental residences.  The newest info can be found in an August 15th article by Brian Wargo for the “In Business” section of the Las Vegas Sun.

The Harmon Hotel & Spa

This part of the massive CityCenter project was put on hold early this year and is not slated to open until late-2010.  The original plans called for a condo component to the building but that has been scrapped in favor of an all-hotel-room project.  The Light Group is still scheduled to operate the hotel once it opens.  Read the latest on Light Group here.

Cosmopolitan (for now!)

What can we say about this project?  Not a part of CityCenter but neighboring it and The Bellagio, this project has gone bankrupt and is currently owned by Deutsche Bank AG who has hired and fired architects in an attempt to make the project more commercially-appealing.  (Not sure to whom.)  The broken lines of the glass-fronted lobby are certainly interesting — not attractive but interesting.  The Cosmo now has a new leader, former Caesars Palace exec, John Unwin, and there’s rumor that the Hilton group may be coming on-board to manage the hotel.  The project is slated to open in September of 2010 but stay tuned for more info.  Read more about the Cosmo’s troubles at the LV Business Press website and an article by Tony Illia.

For a fascinating look at Las Vegas today including an interview with the Sands Corp.’s Sheldon Adelson plus a report on the town’s real estate woes, check out TIME magazine writer/videojournalist Joel Stein’s article “Less Vegas: The Casino Town Bets on a Comeback.”

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Stay at the famous Golden Nugget in Downtown Las Vegas and enjoy the Fremont Street Experience's end of summer bash all weekend long. (www.RoyallyFlushed.com)

In case you needed an excuse to head to Vegas next month, here it is!  Just in time for that last big summer fling in Las Vegas, the Hotels.com Labor Day Sale is here.  Celebrate this last 3-day weekend of the  “Summer of 2009″ by taking advantage of big savings on lots of great  Las Vegas hotels plus check out all the cool stuff happening around town that weekend.

Our hotel picks:

Our number one choice for Labor Day weekend in Las Vegas is the downtown fav, the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino at just $104 per night average.  Spend the days lounging by the pool (considered to be one of Vegas’ finest) and the evenings at the Fremont Street Experience “End of Summer, What a Bummer Bash” featuring the last of a summer-long concert series the weekend of Friday, September 4 through Monday, September 7. Highlighting the weekend will be concerts by Canned Heat on Saturday, Sept. 5, and Three Dog Night on Sunday, Sept. 6.

Looking for a center-Strip location and a reason to party all weekend long? Think Harrah’s Hotel and Casino Las Vegas. No, this isn’t a “top luxury” hotel but the price is right ($142 per night avg.) for a busy holiday weekend plus the outdoor Carnivale Bar, the dueling pianos saloon and the great location all give it extra points in our book.  (And the adjacent Ghirardelli’s ice cream shop doesn’t hurt, either….)

Cool pools, hot nightclubs and a brand-new show debuting from singer Matt Goss will be the highlights at Las Vegas hot-spot  The Palms Casino Resort.  With nine dining venues plus a casual food court, a 14-screen movie theater, busy gaming floor and two of Las Vegas’ hottest nightclubs — Rain and Ghostbar — The Palms will keep guests occupied all weekend long.  Room rates:  $151 per night avg.

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For a fun evening out, check out "Peepshow" at Planet Hollywood. (Photo property of royallyflushed.com)

So we’re back and still getting over our “eight-days-in-Vegas” hangover while working on putting together all the info we need to give you about what’s going on right now in Las Vegas. We ate at some terrific and not-so-terrific places, stayed at three different resorts, found and used a number of great Las Vegas deals, played lots of video poker, took tons of photos and spent a lot time just checking out the crowds (or lack thereof) on and off the Strip. (Hey, it’s a tough job but someone has to do it….)

Usually, we start with a round-up of where we stayed but this time we’re going to start with our review of the Planet Hollywood burlesque revue, “Peepshow,” starring Broadway-alumni Shoshana Bean, former Playboy Playmate Holly Madison and – we’re going to throw this name in because he deserves it – vocalist Josh Strickland from American Idol, Season 2.

First, what this show is not : It’s not Holly Madison dances “Swan Lake;” it’s not going to be nominated for a Tony; and it’s not got some deep dramatic storyline going on.

What this show is: A lot of music-and-dancing-girls fun! Terrific vocals from Shoshana Bean and Josh Strickland are the high points of the show. (Although, based on the reaction from the big groups of guys in the theater that Saturday night – bachelor parties? – I think most men will say the boobs and butts are points more worthy of notice!) Bean is particularly entertaining with her gravelly-voiced musical narration of a story based on Bo Peep’s (Madison) transformation from goody-goody to “shows-her-boobs-in-the-finale” kind of gal. And Strickland provides a little eye-candy for the ladies along with his powerful vocals.

“Peepshow” is fast-paced with one production number after another featuring dance numbers loosely based on Mother Goose rhymes. Our favorite dancer was “Ms. Pete,” a gorgeous gal pole-dancing inside of a pumpkin (did I really just write that?) in a take-off on the old “Peter, Peter, Pumpkin-Eater” rhyme. (You can make up your own jokes with that one.)

The show offers the ladies dressed in almost every stock-in-trade fantasy outfit imaginable. You got your sexy cheerleaders; your school girls complete with plaid pleats and knee-socks; the mistress of leather and chains and lots more. And, for the pet-lovers among you – there is even a weird dancing dog. (Ummm, yeah, make up your own jokes once more.)

So, can Holly Madison dance? Well, let’s say she has a really pretty face and I hear she is a real sweetheart in person. You can make up your own mind after seeing one of her performances on “Dancing with the Stars” on a YouTube video at the bottom of this post.

Again, it’s not “Jersey Boys” or “The Lion King,” (but those shows don’t have the bare boobs and butts you could bounce quarters off of like “Peepshow,” now do they?) but it can add to a fun evening out in Las Vegas.

More info: We had 2-for-1 tickets that came with our stay at Planet Hollywood but you can also get tickets the day of the show at our favorite discount ticket outlet, TIX 4 Tonight.

Planet Hollywood has some great Las Vegas room deals going right now. And, since the closing of their big nightclubs, Prive and The Living Room, expect to see the deals continue.   Planet Hollywood from $69 per night!

Take alongs: Whenever we have plans to see a show, I take these compact binoculars with me just in case I want a better view.

Holly Madison on “Dancing with the Stars”

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The ethereal Mix at Mandalay Bay offers diners luxurious surroundings, superb food and a fabulous view of The Strip and all at a discount this summer.

If you’re like us, planning the perfect trip to Las Vegas starts with finding the best Vegas hotel room at the lowest rate. Once we’ve secured where we’re staying, we go right on to figuring out the next most important trip detail — where we’re going to eat while we’re in town! We love great food and we love great deals so when we can combine the two it’s like hitting the Vegas dining deal equivalent of a Wheel of Fortune jackpot.

That’s exactly how we feel about the gift certificates available through Restaurant.com. We’ve written about these before and frankly, we really don’t know why everybody isn’t using them not only in Las Vegas but in any vacation spot around the country not to mention for restaurants in their own hometowns. (We and our friends use them here in Phoenix all the time.)

So, we’re writing about them again because in looking over the list of restaurants to choose from for our late-July trip, we were so excited to see a bunch of terrific Mandalay Bay restaurants added to the selection. Here’s a recap on the deal: for just $10, you buy $25 restaurant gift certificates from restaurant.com good at top spots all over Vegas. But, wait (yes, we do know we sound like an infomercial!) use this restaurant discount code SEVENTY and get those same $25 certificates for just $3 now through July 13.

Now, check out the great slate of Mandalay Bay restaurants that are participating in the program –

Fleur De Lys – Renowned chef Hubert Keller’s contemporary French restaurant. We’ve been fans of Keller since he hit the dining scene in San Francisco and we watched as he recently competed on the Bravo TV show “Top Chef Masters.” (He was the winner of that round so we look forward to seeing him in the series finale later this summer.)

Aureole – Home of the famous flying “wine angels” this beautiful spot features a fabulous seasonal menu from Chef Charlie Palmer, by far one of the most influential chefs working in America today. Oh, and did we mention the “to-die-for” dessert list or that on our last visit we stopped in the bar to have a drink and sat two seats down from Bonnie Raitt and Jackson Browne? Uh, yeah.

Mix In Las Vegas – Perched atop THE Hotel at the resort, MIX is one of the most beautiful dining spots in all of Vegas. Inside hangs the largest chandelier in the world with 15,000 hand-blown Murano glass balls, a menu originally composed by French Master Chef Alain Ducasse and a balcony that offers the best sunset view of THE Strip. Really.

Strip Steak – As much as we love BOA at Caesars Palace, we’re going to give Michael Mina’s Strip Steak a whirl this trip and check out why it was awarded “Best Steak in America 2008″ by Esquire magazine.

Shanghai Lilly – We haven’t been there yet but we’ve heard good things about the eclectic Cantonese cuisine featuring some spicy Szechwan dishes plus they have a $29 all-you-can-eat Shabu Shabu menu.

Along with these new additions to the restaurant.com list, don’t forget old favs like Rick Moonen’s RM Seafood, also at Mandalay Bay, Hawaiian Tropic Zone (Inside Miracle Mile Shops @ Planet Hollywood) and well-known locals hang-out, Hash House A Go Go.

Follow the link below and again, use code SEVENTY to get in on the $3 deal. And, like everything else, be sure to read the details on each restaurant’s offer before you purchase.

Save 70% off of $25 Gift Certificates when you use code SEVENTY.Pay $3 thru 7/13/09 only at Restaurant.com.

Casino Destinations: Book early & save! Air + 4 nights from $205! Expires 7/25/09

Top Travel Deals at Expedia.com

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There’s also a section on the site that we particularly like which pictures all the “slot hosts” and gives their individual email addresses so you can get personalized attention to your questions or comments.  Also, be sure to check out the page that gives you “Slot Floor Updates” including details on all the newest additions to the gaming floor.  We’re really looking forward to playing the new video poker variations from IGT/Action Gaming, “Ultimate X Poker™” and “Good Times Pay Poker™,” when we visit The Bellagio later this month.

Here’s another item of interest from the Bellagio Slots website and we’re quoting them directly:  “Compared to official data published by the Nevada Gaming Control Board, during the first two months of 2009 Bellagio’s average payback on its slot machines was over 2.75% better than the rest of the Las Vegas Strip! In fact, Bellagio’s payback percentage has been consistently higher than the Strip average since 2005.”  So we just added another reason to love the Bellagio casino!

Looking for a great rate at The Bellagio?  Check out The Bellagio at hotels.com for the summer’s best deals on The Strip.

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Sunset Station is one of the casino resorts taking part in this year's huge "Station's 4th of July Blast" fireworks show. (Click the pic to check on rooms.)

Station Casinos will be hosting the biggest fireworks show in Las Vegas this 4th of July 2009 when each of the Company’s nine properties participate in a huge simultaneous pyrotechnics show to celebrate the holiday.  Called the “Station’s 4th of July Blast,” the monster production will go off at 9:30 pm on Saturday with shows at Red Rock Resort, Green Valley Ranch, Palace Station, Boulder Station, Fiesta Henderson, the new Aliante Station, Santa Fe and Sunset Stations plus the shared location of neighboring properties Texas Station and Fiesta Rancho.

The show will be coordinated and produced by the Grucci Family, a company famous for providing magnificent displays at presidential inaugurations as well as legendary Fourth of July shows from coast-to-coast. During the show, several radio station including KSNE Sunny 106.5 FM, KWNR New Country 95.5 FM and KOMP The Rock Station 92.3 FM will provide a musical accompaniment choreographed to highlight the nine-minute fireworks show.

Want the “best seat in the house” for watching the show?  Here’s a list from Station Casinos of recommended public viewing areas that  each property has carved out  for their guests:

* Aliante Station – Hotel valet/parking lot area

* Boulder Station – Parking garage rooftop

* Fiesta Henderson – Parking garage rooftop

* Fiesta Rancho – Parking garage rooftop

* Green Valley Ranch – Backyard pool area

* Palace Station – Parking garage rooftop (south parking garage connected to casino entrance)

* Red Rock Resort – Pool area and amphitheatre

* Santa Fe Station – Parking garage rooftop (north parking garage) and the race and sports book patio

* Sunset Station – Amphitheater

* Texas Station – Parking Lot C off Rancho entrance

In addition to the free fireworks show, all Station Casinos will be celebrating the holiday weekend with food and drink specials, live entertainment and more.  Be sure to check with each casino for more info on the big Fourth of July bash.

Holiday Hint: Make it a “playcation” and book a night or two at one of the hotels.  Rooms are still available at several resorts including: Sunset Station Hotel And Casino,  Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa and Fiesta Rancho Station Casino Hotel.

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Fourth of July fireworks explode in the sky between The Bellagio and Caesars Palace during 2008's display.

There’s still plenty of time and great hotel deals available if you want to spend this Fourth of July in Las Vegas.  P.B. and I usually spend three or four days at one of the resorts on The Strip hanging out at the hotel pool; sampling any new restaurants and ice cream joints (thinking Serendipity 3 at Caesars Palace this year;) and just relaxing over the lazy holiday.

This year we’re going to head for Fremont Street for at least one evening and check out the downtown’s “American Pie 4th of July” celebration which starts Friday, July 3 and goes through Sunday, July 5. The popular Fremont Street Experience has been running a “Summer of ‘69″ event featuring the Viva Vision show, “Don McLean’s American Pie,” so we’ll see that plus enjoy one of the weekend concerts. Headliners this year include Janis Joplin’s original band, “Big Brother & The Holding Company,” on Friday with “The Grass Roots” playing on Saturday. The evening of the 4th also promises a brilliant virtual fireworks show on the Viva Vision canopy.  Get more info here – Fremont Street 4th Celebration.

The Brooklyn Bridge at New York New York Hotel & Casino will be the scene of another week-end long event – the Fourth of July “Beer Bash on the Bridge.” Tickets for this party include unlimited beer from 20 brewers plus a changing schedule of daily entertainment featuring groups like “Boogie Nights,” ” The Spazmatics,” and “Phoenix.” Check out the details at the NYNY Hotel & Casino website, promotion section.

We found some really good hotel deals through Expedia’s big summer hotel sale with great rates at Treasure Island, Luxor, NYNY and The Flamingo plus a great offer at the downtown California Hotel.  Be sure to make your reservations by June 30th and don’t miss the special offer available for using your MasterCard® plus all the special coupon books and other cool freebies when you book through Expedia.

Expedia Hotel Sale! 5000+ Deals worldwide, hotels from $24! – Expires 6/30/09

We’ll be posting more events in Las Vegas as the holiday weekend gets nearer.

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The Palazzo Resort at Venetian

In addition to sophisticated pampering, guests of this newest “ultra-pool” can indulge in culinary creations from celebu-Chef Wolfgang Puck whose Azure pool menu includes his signature pizza (this one with smoked salmon and black caviar,) a Maine lobster salad featuring heirloom tomatoes and avocado or consider this — crisp calamari with grilled zucchini and oven-roasted tomatoes.  And, of course, wines and champagnes are available by the glass or even by the magnum!

The pool scene will really heat up when Azure presents Absolut® Vodka Saturdays — a daytime event featuring fashion shows from Palazzo Shoppes favorites like Tory Burch and Barneys New York; signature spa services from the resort’s own Canyon Ranch SpaClub®; live DJ’s and other entertainment plus inventive cocktails like the “Spiked Bellini” from the Absolut® drink menu.

Azure will be open from 11 AM – 6 PM, Friday through Sunday, for guests 21 and over with reservations for cabanas, daybeds and lounges available by calling 702-607-1218.

The resort is offering an “online” only Palazzo suite deal with rates as low $129 per night which includes a list of great extras including restaurant and spa discounts plus a $50 per stay slot credit using promotion code EPNJUNX for reservations made by June 15, 2009.

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Summer deals await at The Venetian Las Vegas.

Time is running out to book this Las Vegas suites and dining deal from The Venetian.  Starting at just $109 per night weekdays, The Venetian, one of the top Las Vegas hotels, is offering guests a luxury suite plus:

• 25% off bill at Postrio, Wolfgang Puck’s trendy Grand Canal Shoppes eatery.
• $50 off any spa service 80 minutes or longer at Canyon Ranch SpaClub®.
• $30 off your dining bill at Woo (with $60 minimum purchase) located at sister property, The Palazzo.
• Complimentary upgrade to Blue Zone tickets with purchase of Red Zone tickets to The Venetian’s popular Blue Man Group stage show.
• $50 in Slot Credits per stay.

Be sure to use Venetian promotion code “EVBMAY” when booking your Las Vegas room.  Hotel reservations at The Venetian must be made by May 31 to take advantage of this special offer.

To book your luxury Las Vegas room, click here:  Venetian Summer Room Promotion

Other great Las Vegas promotions can be found here: Best Las Vegas Hotel Deals!

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Players Club members have been accruing Gift Shoppe points since January 1. Gift Shoppe points are completely free and club members accrue them automatically – no extra sign-ups required.  Plus, these points are in addition to other slot club points and benefits.

Players can redeem Gift Points at the fabulous year-end Players Club Holiday Gift Shoppe 2009 which will take place during the two week event happening November 28 – December 13 where you can get watches, jewelry, electronics, home & sporting goods, Gift Cards, FREEPLAY^® and more!

Check for details at MGM Mirage’s website at playersclub.com or at the players club desk at each casino location.    Click Here for the Best Las Vegas Hotel Deals!

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Get great room deals this summer in Las Vegas.

Looking for low rates and great hotel deals for your Las Vegas vacation?  Here is a booking site plus several  hotels in Las Vegas offering not only smoking hotel room rates but also lots of vacation package add-ons like free room upgrades, food coupons, show discounts and more.  These are — by far — some of the best deals in Las Vegas.

The Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is offering i4vegas.com customers a FREE UPGRADE TO A RESORT ROOM for stays through 6/26/9. (Stays during May 18-19 & 22-24 are excluded.)  This is a $50.00 per night value! Just book a Hollywood Hip room, and you will be upgraded at no charge when you check-in.  Now thru Sept 30, guests also receive a $25 Buffet Credit (liquor excluded), and these coupons:

• $40 in Free Play – present coupon at the A-List Players Club Booth
• Miracle Mile Shops – Shop-Dine-Save Coupon Book – Up to $2,000 total savings throughout the mall
• Planet Dailies – 10% Off your Food & Beverage Lunch purchase up to 4 people
• Planet Hollywood spa by MANDARA – one complimentary admission with purchase of one
• The Playing Field – 2 for 1 Well Drinks

Planet Hollywood is home to one of the Strip’s hottest new shows, the burlesque-style revue, “Peepshow,” as well as several popular restaurants like P.F. Chang’s China Bistro and Trader Vic’s.  With it center-of-the-Strip location, Planet “Ho” is a terrific spot for a summer stay especially with rates starting at just $89 per night.

To reserve this offer, click here: Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino

The venerable Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino on Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas is another cool hotel offering a hot summer deal!  The Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino is giving customers of i4vegas.com a THIRTY PERCENT (30%) DISCOUNT on rates between now and August 31, 2009 good over most dates.  Don’t miss this opportunity to stay at a beautiful AAA Four-Diamond hotel at rates like just $53 per night midweek!  Through 8/31/9, i4vegas customers will also receive the Golden Value Book valued at $250.

* One complimentary breakfast or lunch buffet with purchase of one
* One complimentary ticket to “Simply Ballroom” with purchase of one
* One complimentary cocktail or beer at Claude’s Bar or the International Beer Bar
* Spa – $10 Off any salon service totaling at least $50
* $10 in FREE Slot Play when you join the 24 Karat Club
* $25 in FREE Slot Play when you are a qualified member of the 24 Karat Club by earning 1,500 points
* $10 Match Play Voucher on any table game except poker
* Receive $60 in chips for a $50 buy-in in the Poker Room (non-smoking)
* Receive 10% Off a retail purchase at Essentials or Style & Trend
* $5 Off any entree at any Landry’s restaurant location (except at Golden Nugget)
* 15% off a Budget car rental (Budget is located in the hotel lobby)

The Golden Nugget is perfect for those who love hanging out at one of the City’s best “ultra-pools.” Enter “The Tank,” the hotel’s $30 million, one-of-a-kind pool complete with an aquarium and three-story waterslide!  Check out a neat video of the pool here on YouTube.

To reserve this offer, click here: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino

Bally’s, Flamingo, Harrah’s, Imperial Palace, Paris and Rio have joined together in putting together a spectacular Coupon book valued at $700.  Plus, one of the coupons is good for a VIP Special Offer Booklet featuring valuable offers from participating shops & restaurants in The Forum shops at Caesars Palace.

Rates are just as enticing with Bally’s at  just $44 midweek, Rio Suites Hotel & Casino as low as $64 or how about Harrah’s at just $53 per night.  (If you visit Harrah’s be sure to check out Penazzi’s Oyster Bar for some great seafood and ice cold beer!)

Stay at one of the six hotel/casinos & receive Free Offers & Discounts on Shows, Food, Golf, Shopping and Attractions from all six (6) properties!  Some Highlights of the Coupon Book:

• Bally’s:  2-for-1 ticket to Jubilee!
• Flamingo:  2-for-1 tix to Vinnie Favorito & Nathan Burton, $5 off Buffet & gift w/ $15 purchase at  Margaritaville
• Harrah’s:  2-for-1 tix to Legends in Concert, Mac King & Improv, $5 off Buffet
• Imperial Palace:  2 FREE tickets to the Auto Collection and $5 off Buffet
• Paris:  2 FREE Eiffel Tower Experience admissions and $5 off Buffet
• Rio:  2-for-1 tix to Chippendales & Penn & Teller, 2 FREE admissions to VooDoo Lounge & 2 FREE drinks, 2 FREE ride tickets for  Masquerade Show in the Sky
• Discounts on Grand Canyon and Vegas Strip Tours

To check out this and other great offers, click here: Great Vegas Hotels From $29

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Head for Planet Hollywood to catch the new "Peepshow" starring Mel B of Spice Girls fame.

With all the outrageous Las Vegas hotel deals (Last minute Vegas values at Expedia.com!) available this spring and summer now is a great time to plan on using some of the cash you’ll save on the room by booking a seat at one of the new shows in town.

At Planet Hollywood, the new “Peepshow” starring Mel B — aka “Scary Spice” from the pop group The Spice Girls — along with soap actress Kelly Monaco from ABC’s “General Hospital” is garnering good reviews since it opened earlier this month.  Part burlesque, part fantasy, the show features lots of lingerie-sporting dancing girls, exuberant singing numbers and a loose storyline.  Hotel packages are available that combine show tickets with room discounts, free slot play and more.  Ticket prices alone begin at $65 and go up to $175 each for VIP table seating.  Check out Planet Hollywood’s website here.

Coming to the Las Vegas Strip in May is the popular Broadway hit “The Lion King” which will open at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.  The Tony® Award-winning Broadway sensation that Newsweek calls “a landmark event in entertainment” will begin regular performances on May 18th.  (Previews begin May 5 and run on select dates through the May 17th opening night.)  Ticket prices range from $53 to $168.50.  Visit Mandalay Bay’s site for more info.

Also, when you visit Mandalay Bay, check out the Beachside Casino, a brand new three-story venue with dining, gaming and more overlooking the resort’s world-famous pool area.  The second floor features Blackjack, roulette and craps where casual beach attire is preferred and encouraged and even the dealers are dressed for a fun-filled day at the beach.

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Avenged Sevenfold ended their nearly two-year tour with a performance at the new Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. (Photo courtesy of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.)

There’s lots of hot new stuff happening at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas this spring!  With the grand opening of the new mega-music venue “The Joint” (including performances by The Killers, Avenged Sevenfold and Paul McCartney); the grand opening of Carey Hart’s Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co.; and the season opening of Rehab — complete with a Snoop Dogg set — the property was buzzing with capacity crowds and celebrity cameos throughout the past (4/17 – 4/19) weekend. Here’s a recap of the events and celebs that came to party at the HRH:

The Killers at the Opening of The Joint:

The Vegas hometown band, The Killers, officially opened the new Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas to a sold out show of 4,000 fans. Owen Wilson and Stephen Dorff caught the performance from a studio suite and were ushered backstage post-show to meet the band.  Also spotted were motocross star Carey Hart plus favorite Las Vegas residents, Andre Agassi and wife Steffi Graff (who were also seen dining pre-show at Rare 120, the new restaurant at the Hard Rock.)

Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co.:

Carey Hart opened the doors to his famed Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co. with friends Benji Madden and members of the band Avenged Sevenfold on hand to support. TV host Sal Masekela was first to go under the needle as he got a tattoo on camera for his show, the Daily 10.  Later that evening Hart, Madden and company set up shop in the Joint to watch fan favorites Avenged Sevenfold play the last show of their nearly two-year-long tour to another capacity crowd.

Famed Sunday Pool Party Rehab Debuts:

A 30-minute set from best-selling rapper Snoop Dogg kicked off the 6^th season of Rehab, the world-famous Sunday pool party at the Hard Rock.  Both locals and visitors alike came out to celebrate the beginning of pool season with over 3,000 people in attendance.  Celebrity partiers included New Orleans Saints Reggie Bush and Sedrick Ellis.

“Macca” Wows Crowd at Sunday Concert:

Paul opened with “Drive My Car” and played for more than two hours to a sold-out house, before getting back onstage for a double encore. Singing lots of old Beatles favs, cuts from his Wings days plus newer songs, the “cutest Beatle” was in fine voice for a now 66-year-old rocker. Celeb McCartney fans included: Donald Trump; Andre Agassi with wife, Steffi Graff; David Spade; Donny Osmond; and NASCAR driver Robbie Gordon.

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One of the best hotel deals in Las Vegas this Spring -- The Bellagio for just $129 per night.

Looking for the best Las Vegas hotel deals just got a whole lot easier!  Introducing our exclusive new “Best Days, Best Rates in Las Vegas” calendar which shows you the top days for saving money on your hotel room when planning your Las Vegas getaway.  We’ve done the research on which big conventions will be in town so by avoiding those dates, you can book your Las Vegas hotel room for a lot less.  Also, if you can plan your trip for early or mid-week, you can save even more on your Vegas trip.  And because we know that a weekday trip isn’t always possible, we’ve also called out the best weekends to save money each month.

For instance, check out this amazing room deal at the luxurious Bellagio.  When you plan your three-night stay starting Monday, May 25, you’ll pay just $132 per night on average.  That’s 5-Star luxury at an almost unbelievable bargain price.  Or how about mid-Strip favorite, Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, for just $89 per night during that same time frame?  And, if you’re looking to save your money for the tables, we found Flamingo Las Vegas — with its gorgeous pool area perfect for a day in May — at an average $52 per night plus a bonus of $30 in resort credits.

Plus, new this Spring, if you book through Expedia or Hotels.com, you’ll receive their new “Premier Shopping Passport” with printable Las Vegas coupons good at retail stores and restaurants up and down the Strip.   Here’s the description of this special coupon package:  “The Las Vegas Convention and Vistors Authority and Las Vegas Premier Shopping Places – Fashion Show Mall, The Grand Canal Shoppes and The Shoppes at The Palazzo — would like to offer you a Premier Shopping Passport filled with thousands of dollars in shopping and dining savings. Offers are from over 175 retailers with additional special offers and services reserved exclusively for our valued Expedia and Hotels.com customers. Examples of great offers:  Saks Fifth Avenue Las Vegas- 15% off; COLE HAAN – 20% off; or Wolfgang Puck’s Postrio restaurant — 25% off just to name a few. (Some restrictions apply.)

Here’s our exclusive new “Best Days, Best Rates” calendar for Las Vegas:

April:  27, 28, 29, 30

May:  10, 11, 12, 13, 25, 26, 27, 28 — Best weekend in May:  7, 8, 9,

June:  14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24 — Best weekend in June:  18, 19, 20

Happy planning!  We’ll publish our best summer rates calendar in early May.

Last minute Vegas values at Expedia.com!

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In addition to great room offers, free shows and merchandise giveaways, I’m also noticing quite a few more tournaments and promotional events for both slot and table game players.  Even the offers recognizing my April birthday have better incentives such as the $25 in bonus birthday play from — thank you, very much — Casino Arizona in Scottsdale.  (A side note:  Casino Arizona’s April giveaway is an umbrella.  These are the same people who gave away mittens and a scarf earlier this year.  Hmmm, someone needs to tell them it rains here just about as often as it gets cold enough for mittens and a scarf….)

Also interesting, a number of the offers are coming to me from the casinos via my email box.  Sending offers through email makes so much sense.  Got rooms to fill in a hurry?  Put together a quick email and send it to thousands of club members within a matter of minutes!

So, what does this all have to do with you?

1. Always, always sign up for a players club card even when you don’t plan on playing a lot.  A casino can’t send you offers if they don’t know who you are and where to find you.
2. Do not throw away the mailers unopened.  Who knows what goodies await inside?
3. Sign up for email notifications from the casinos.  You’ll get some great last-minute offers.
4. If you live somewhere it rains a lot, I’ve got an umbrella you can have….

Hotels.com Spring Sale- Last Week to Save up to 30% at Hotels.com! – Expires by 4/13/09

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Take a trip to the Las Vegas Strip for less with Expedia's spring/summer airfare sale.

Quick! Don’t let time run out on these discount airfares to Las Vegas!  Expedia is offering great deals on flights to top cities across the country – including Las Vegas – through the peak travel season.  With tickets starting at just $98 round trip, now is the time to plan that spring or summer trip to Las Vegas or anywhere in the nation while prices are this low.

We checked on trips in April and May and here are some sample roundtrip fares:

Salt Lake – LV   $98         Chicago – LV     $199

Baltimore – LV   $178      New Orleans – LV   $178

Pittsburgh – LV   $189     Seattle – LV   $159

These fares are valid all the way through August 12, but you must book by April 6.  A 14-day advance purchase is required.  Hurry and book your flights while these prices last.  For even more savings, look at booking your hotel at the same time. Last-Minute Hotel Deals at Expedia.com

To see the full list of fares and to book you flights with Expedia go to: Summer on sale! Fly roundtrip from $98+ Expires – 4/6/09

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Dine for less at Enoteca San Marco at The Venetian and check out Chef Mario Batali's signature orange Crocs.

We’re always thrilled to bring you news of great deals on Las Vegas hotel rooms and now we have an amazing offer on some of the best restaurants in Las Vegas.

We’ve sung the praises of Restaurant.com in our “Las Vegas Values” article for “Casino Player” magazine (March 2009) and right here on RoyallyFlushed so we were excited to see this fantastic deal from the money-saving website.  From now through March 31 — you can purchase $25 dining coupons for just $3! Yes, you read that right…three bucks buys you twenty-five dollars in dining at restaurants all around Las Vegas.

And here’s what we really like about the program:  you buy certificates only for those restaurants you plan on visiting.  No more buying a whole “book” of coupons only to use one or two.  At Restaurant.com, you choose only those places you like or you’d like to try while on vacation.  (And if you live in Las Vegas, it’s a great way to try some new spots for a lot less dough or save some bucks at your favorite places, too.)

Here are some of our recommended restaurants in Las Vegas:

One of the best restaurants in Las Vegas, a consistent “locals favorite,” the award-winning and nationally-recognized Rosemary’s.  Chefs Michael and Wendy Jordan will wow you with their contemporary cuisine and wonderful atmosphere. Rosemary’s Restaurant

Three Strip favorites:

• RM Seafood (Located @ Mandalay Bay Shops) (Definitely have the clam chowder!)
• Border Grill at Mandalay Bay
• ENOTECA San Marco (Located Inside the Venetian Hotel & Casino) (Read our review here.)

Other favorites include Little Buddha at The Palms, Hennessey’s Las Vegas on Fremont Street downtown and Al’s Garage at The District near Green Valley Ranch.

Oh, and two other favorites of ours:

• McCormick & Schmick’s (Their planked salmon is especially good and they’re located just minutes off the Strip.)

• Hash House A Go Go — Popular with locals and visitors alike, this off-Strip joint rocks for breakfast or anytime at all!

Also, keep in mind that restaurant.com offers dining certificates for restaurants all around the country so be sure to check and see if your fav neighborhood place isn’t also on their extensive list of participating restaurants.  (We use them here in Phoenix and Scottsdale all the time!)

Here’s the link and code to get your great dining deals now: Save 70% Off with every order of $25 Gift Certificates. Use code SAVE and pay $3 thru 3/31/09.

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Some of the chefs appearing at the Vegas Uncork'd event include: Guy Savoy, top right; Bobby Flay, top center; and Francois Payard, bottom left; all from Caesars Palace.

Calling all foodies!  Tickets for the culinary festival, Vegas Uncork’d, are selling out quickly.  The annual event — held over Mother’s Day weekend this year — is being billed as “A Bon Appétit Epicurean Experience” with the popular cooking magazine a co-sponsor of the four-day bash.

With the Las Vegas dining event happening May 7-10, this would make a perfect Mother’s Day getaway weekend for the special lady in anyone’s life.  Moms who love gourmet dining, amazing desserts, superb wines and rubbing elbows with the top chefs who make it all happen will really enjoy this year’s agenda.  Mother’s Day hotel deals in Las Vegas are still available.  Check out the deals at Bally’s, The Venetian, Paris and more here >>>> Last minute Vegas values at Expedia.com!

Kicking things off in style is the Masters’ Series Dinner at Caesars Palace where guests can
mingle with celebrated chefs such as Guy Savoy and François Payard, among others. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in a “Sweet Decadence” culinary workshop at the Bellagio during which Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Philippe Maury and Bon Appétit Editor-and-Chief Barbara Fairchild create a lineup of delectable chocolate desserts.  (And, yes, I will definitely be at this event!)

Another sure way to impress mom is with tickets to “A Tale of Five Chefs” at the Bellagio with
Julian Serrano, Todd English, Michael Mina, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Jean-Philippe Maury. Night owls and card players can hold’em or fold’em with chefs and vintners at the Midnight Poker tournament at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

For a memorable Saturday afternoon, guests can attend the Wynn Star Chef Luncheon Series and meet chefs Alex Stratta, Paul Bartolotta, Daniel Boulud, David Walzog and Richard Chen. The perfect ending to a weekend with mom is at one of the Wynn’s two simultaneous Mother’s Day brunches at Tableau with chef Mark LoRusso and The Country Club with Chef Rene Lenger.

Find all the information on events and tickets here at the Vegas Uncork’d website.

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The M Resort’s iMagine Rewards club members may use their points for dining, cash back, complimentary rooms and suites AND free play. Members can also redeem points at M Resort’s on-site gas station, car wash and pharmacy. ($1 played = 1 point. 333 points = $1 and the resort offers 1,900 slot machines and 64 table games.)

In regards to the overwhelming success of the new resort, Chairman and CEO of the M, Anthony Marnell III, earlier this month said,  “The response has been exciting.  We knew we had a great product to offer our guests and the last few days have confirmed it.”

The new $1 billion resort opened with a bang earlier this month in a grand celebration featuring fireworks, celebrities and a “Who’s Who” of Las Vegas faces.  Located on South Las Vegas Boulevard and St. Rose Parkway, the M features 390 guest rooms and suites, nine dining venues, a state-of-the-art spa, meeting and convention areas and more than 92,000 square feet of gaming space.  The resort’s highlight is a lavish pool and outdoor entertainment plaza with commanding views of the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding mountains.

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We discovered the cozy little "Very Venice" bar at The Venetian to be a prime spot for some relaxed people-watching.

As soon as we get the news on the latest room offers from The Venetian Las Vegas, we pass the details on to you ASAP.  Here’s the 411 on March’s room discount package as well as some info on a great spot to have a cocktail:

From $129 per night on selected days your suite offer includes:

• Luxury Suite at The Venetian
• 2-for-1 drinks at TAO from 5 pm – 7 pm
• Complimentary line pass and admission to TAO Nightclub
• $10 off at restaurant David Burke with $50 minimum purchase
• $10 off at restaurant AquaKnox with $50 minimum purchase
• $40 off tickets for Front Orchestra or Golden Circle seats to Phantom – The Las Vegas Spectacular
• $25 in Slot Credits per stay

This exclusive offer must be booked by March 16th using offer code:  EVNMAR.

Also, on our last trip to Las Vegas, we found this terrific little bar at The Venetian that’s not only perfect for a quick drink but also a worthy addition to our list of favorite people-watching spots on The Strip.  Check out the “Very Venice” bar — located in the walkway to St. Mark’s Square — on your next trip to the resort.

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Book a stay at Caesars Palace in Vegas for just $90 a night this spring.

We’re back….  After a driving trip across the country’s mid-section (and, sadly, no time for stopping at the numerous casinos along the way) we came home to a mailbox full of outstanding Las Vegas deals.

Las Vegas really does represent one of– if not the — best travel values available in the country right now.  Take a look at these rates for the best in Spring getaways:
Enjoy Caesars Palace from $90 a night or
Las Vegas on Sale: Trump Hotel from $89 a night.
and, remarkably,
The luxury of the 5-Star Wynn Las Vegas from just $129 a night!

You can also get great values on things to do while you’re in town by booking your shows and more online at Expedia.  Pick up tickets for less to shows like the highly-recommended KA at MGM Grand (plan on dinner at Nob Hill Tavern before or after) or the fast and funny “V – The Variety Show” at Planet Hollywood.  (While at Planet “Ho,” have a drink at the casino’s Heart Bar or play a couple of hands of blackjack with their “Pleasure Pit” dealers.)

You can also book trips to visit nearby Hoover Dam or explore the breath-taking scenery of the Red Rock Canyon area while on a Pink Jeep Tour. For all the coolest activities at terrific prices check out: Best of Vegas at Expedia.com

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