Travel Update on Las Vegas

As we have noted in previous blogs, constant change in Las Vegas is a given, so we could easily report 3 or 4 times a year on different things going on in that vibrant city and not repeat ourself.  I looked back on a previous report in May and was extolling the rehab of what is now known as The Cromwell, a new, up-scale renovated hotel.  

Today, let me introduce you to the different Sahara, known now as the SLS Las Vegas.  The old Sahara was established in 1952, and was the place to be seen back in the 50’s and 60’s.. .. then as newer properties came on the scene with bigger and better, that property went downhill, until a group bought it and closed it down in 2007.  They have now spent $415 million in renovating the 1,620 room property, brought in a new chef, pumped up the performance venues, so that now, it has become another place that people want to be seen.

The popular travel newspaper, Travel Weekly, has a “Best Bets” section regarding Las Vegas, so I’ll just name a few of their recommendations:   Best-Kept Secret on the Strip---Vdara Hotel & Spa; Best All-Around Performer—Frankie Moreno at the Stratosphere; Best Comeback Story--Palms Casino Resort;  Best Tribute Show—Legends in Concert at the Flamingo Las Vegas; Best New Restaurant—Crush at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino; Best Adult Pool—Bare Pool Lounge at the Mirage; Best Bang for the Buck—FAME at the Linq; Best Happy Hour Experience—Happy Half Hour on the High Roller at Caesars Entertainment Complex.

One of the more popular promotions is at the MGM Hotel and Casino where they  are offering two free tickets to some of the best shows in the city when you book an air and hotel package of 3 or more nights.  Reservations need to be made no later than Sept. 28 and be at least 21 years of age to qualify for the promotion.

As we have always suggested, if you are flexible, try to avoid the weekends for the best rates, both air and hotel. Also, Las Vegas is the premier convention city, so do your best to avoid the larger conventions scheduled.  You can check those busy dates by going to www.vegasmeansbusiness.com/planning-tools/convention-calendar.  Information there will let you know when there is a big convention coming to town which means limited space and higher prices.

My advice has been, rather than rent a car, use the shuttle from the airport to the hotel, then when you want to go anywhere, get a ticket for the hop on/off bus.  One day pass is $8 or better still is the 3 days for $20.  That ticket can take you all over the Strip as well as Downtown.

That’s Vegas. . for another few months!!!  Please allow the experienced travel counselors at The Travel Factory help you with these Vegas plans or any other travel concern.  We’ll for sure save you a lot of time, and most of the time, a lot of money. Contact us at 698-1421 or find us at 4150 Southwest Drive, Suite 120.