Sunday, June 12, 2011

A few casinos...with more to come

Hello all you faithful Las Vegas travelers out there. I've been so involved with research on how to better the site that I realized I have neglected each of you by not providing updates as I should. Well, fear not because the 2011 trip to Vegas is in the process of being booked. That's right. Flights are done, courtesy of Frontier Airlines, and we are scheduled to be in Vegas near the end of August.

I will be providing more information about where we will be staying as the time gets closer. However, I would like to say thank you to all of those who have made this such an exciting adventure thus far. I am truly grateful that so many of you appreciate what I have to say. I really hope we can make this be one of the top Las Vegas blogs on the net. One step at a time though, of course.

Either way, I did make updates to the casino page so please stop on by and have a look at a few descriptions of some great places to play while in Las Vegas. Don't forget to send me your questions.

Have fun!

7's

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

It's been awhile, but for good reason

I know. Everyone has been asking when I will get back to explaining the lot of things to do while in Las Vegas. Truth is, I have been very busy researching more about what Las Vegas has to offer than just the typical "tourist attractions." Yes, we can gamble, see shows, stay fun places, get massages, and more, but I just know this city has so much more to offer those who yearn for knowledge.

I have also been in the process of preparing some new exciting elements to go along with the blog. Keep reading and keep the comments coming. Let's see how far we can take this thing!

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Possibly in "The Hangover"

In tribute to my friends and I who have been to Las Vegas together, I find myself drawn constantly to Hollywood's soon-to-be classic bachelor movie, The Hangover. Why?

Well, first off, it takes place in the greatest city in the United States, Las Vegas. Secondly, apparently most of the filming was taking place during our 2009 trip. To boot, we were literally in and out of Caesar's Palace constantly. I guess lady luck was not on our side that week. Oh well, either way, if you want an over-exaggerated Las Vegas experience, go out and see this movie (if you haven't already, that is).

Even though it's a bit extreme, a glimpse of what Las Vegas has to offer can be determined; especially if partying is at the top of your list.

Be Smart! Play Hard! Have Fun!
7's 

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Las Vegas Weather via the Weather Channel

Wondering what the temperature is right now in Las Vegas? Maybe your vacation starts within the next 10 days?

Just take a glance to the right and get all the weather information needed to plan for your trip in Sin City courtesy of weather.com.

Enjoy!

7's

Saturday, April 30, 2011

To Check my bag or not check my bag. That IS the question

Most of the time I find myself questioning whether or not to buy more than economy ticket for the airline I will be taking to Las Vegas. Anymore, it seems like many airliners are creating tiers of boarding passes in order to "make flying easier."

Case in point, Frontier Airlines offers three tiers of boarding pass. If you buy the second or third tier, they "wave your bag fee" for up to two (2) luggage pieces that are checked at the ticket counter. Although tempting, let's do some math.

The price difference between economy and tier 2 is approximately $30. When I travel to Vegas [because I like to consider myself an experienced traveler], I will check one luggage that is within the airlines guidelines (weight limits, dimensions, etcetera]. Checking a bag costs $20...Need I say more.

Now, I am in no way condemning how airlines do business these days, but be smart when booking that airline ticket. If money can be saved and spent on your actual vacation [or saved in general], then I would highly recommend it. Don't leap at a deal on any airline just because the lights are flashing and whistles are going off in that "Deal of the Day E-blast." Be smart and you will be amazed at how flying will be less expensive.

Be Smart. Play Hard. Have Fun.

7's

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Something I enjoy doing in Las Vegas

So, the big trip is FINALLY here. Everyone is ready to hit the ground running in Las Vegas, Nevada. Palms are sweating. Laces are all tied. There's a problem...Nobody wants to gamble. What to do now?!

Sometimes, people who travel to Las Vegas assume that the ONLY thing to do in Vegas is gamble. I know, I have heard it from nearly a dozen people. In fact, as mentioned before, that's one reason why some people will not go to Sin City. Relax, everyone. Keep in mind that just because Las Vegas was founded on gambling doesn't mean that's the only thing to do there. Personally, I feel there's nothing better to do, some days, than just sit by the pool and sip a nice cocktail. Why not? It's vacation right; a getaway that has built up all this anticipation and adrenaline, but before we know it, it's over. Do everyone a favor. Take some time for YOU while in Las Vegas. Actually make a vacation out of it. I know for a fact that this year, I will definitely be hitting up a spa for a massage of at least a 60 minute duration.

Remember, Las Vegas is the Disneyland for adults. Take some time for yourself when visiting. Who knows what you will learn. It may be the only vacation where you can actually "get away for a while."

Be Smart! Play Hard! and Have Fun!

7s

Monday, April 25, 2011

Hospitality: Use it, but don't abuse it

When strolling around the strip in Las Vegas, I could not help but notice two types of people. Those who are afraid to ask questions, and those who aren't. This is obviously something that this writer has easily picked up on when vacationing in Sin City.

Keep in mind that whether you like to ask for help or not, resort employees in Las Vegas will more than likely bend over backwards to help guests with inquiries or requests. Why, you ask? They enjoy your business. They figure if they serve you the best experience of your life, you will keep coming back for more. It's true. I have never once had what I would call a "bad experience" in Las Vegas. Everyone I've had the pleasure of meeting has gone out of their way to ensure that my vacation is one of the best ever. Hence, one of the reasons why I love going back so often and with different people. This is a continuous cycle. Try it. I guarantee that Las Vegas employees will more often than not go above and beyond your expectations.

Even though being served on hand and foot may be great. Keep in mind that these places need to generate revenue as well. Don't always expect a comp here and a comp there. In fact, the last thing anyone would want to do is have everything comped all the time. Why? Think about it. You have a friend who constantly wants free stuff from you, but what do they do in return? If they bring you more clients, then sure, "hook them up," as I like to say. On the other hand, if it's just themselves, why continue doing it?

I'm not saying don't work for all the comps you can acquire, but do just that. Work, network, etcetera. Trust me, nobody likes to "work" while on vacation, but these are the perks that will keep you coming back again and again. Try it. You may surprise yourself.

Be Smart. Play Hard. Have Fun!

7s

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

One must research to save

Okay, so this post doesn't apply to just Las Vegas, but I find this question daunting every time it's asked:

"I just don't think we can afford to travel this year. You're so lucky that you find all these travel deals. I can't find any of them."

I've said it before, the old saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day," seems to leave people's minds more often than not when tasks seem difficult. The truth is a pocketbook friendly vacation takes time and planning. I never hurry up and book a trip to Vegas prior to doing my homework on travel arrangements. Honestly, I will probably research flights for months on end until I feel the best deal presents itself. Like we've mentioned before, a vacation cannot be a last minute thing if you want to budget. Do research and I promise, the deals will present themselves on how to get to your destination in a more budget friendly style.

I'll see you in Las Vegas!

7's

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Want to publish a Las Vegas story?

Sometimes, I feel rather selfish sitting here and sharing only my adventures in Las Vegas with everyone. I have always been a firm believer of the power in numbers, and I know that everyone combined will know more about what Las Vegas has to offer tourists than just my experiences alone. This is why I've decided to open this portion of the blog up to all the readers out there.

What I am asking is this: If anyone has a great tip, pointer, or story that they are willing to share, please let me know. Whether it is a single blog entry or a great addition to one of the blog's pages. I would love to show more, but I am only one individual.

Please, feel free to leave stories, tips, or comments as comments in the blog, and I will do my best to get them published. For quicker consideration, please email the piece to my personal email address: 7sneolway@gmail.com. Keep making Las Vegas great!

7s

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Pools & Amenitites are no more!

For those of you who may have noticed, the original plan was to provide a page featuring pools & amenities that Las Vegas hotels offer. However, after much deliberation and discussions with first-time visitors, I have decided to wrap this information into the hotels page. Shows & Entertainment will now be in its place. Watch out. Las Vegas shows are fun, fast, and probably some of the best entertainment in the world. I will try to keep reviews to only those that I have seen. If there are any other reviews, please feel free to contact me and upon review, it will be added to the page. Have fun!


7s

Monday, April 11, 2011

Money Saving Tip: Slot Machines

It seems like a rush, right? Drop in 75 cents, pull the lever, and hope that the jackpot siren will go off. In all honesty, I recall seeing more people playing slots in Las Vegas casinos than anything else. Personally, I cannot sit in front of a slot machine for hours on end. At the same time, it could mostly be due to the game involving no player skill. Having the fate of the pull determined by a computer chip in a machine doesn't sit well with me; especially if I plan on investing hundreds of dollars in Las Vegas gambling.

When in a casino, I always encourage first timers to check out everything being offered. Many times, however, the flashing lights and sound effects put out by these money-hungry computers are impossible to resist. Take a page from my book: if slots are a new endeavor, start small and work your way up. Penny slots are a great way to spend a few bucks if gambling is completely new and nobody will be immediately overwhelmed. Don't be intimidated into thinking that high credit slots only have good payouts. I've personally hit a few small jackpots on penny slots and it is well worth the ten dollar investments. Just remember to set spending limits if your on the verge of becoming a slot machine junkie. Have fun, and remember to be responsible. I'll see you...in Las Vegas.

7s

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Contemplating What to do in 2011.

It seems like the more I try to plan my annual trips to Las Vegas, the more I get caught up in everything I want to do this time around. It does get overwhelming, but I enjoy it. That's what vacationing is all about: being excited about a trip. Even though a vacation with an itinerary does not seem like "getting away," it is refreshing to not worry about the daily hassles of home and work.

When planning a trip to Las Vegas, keep in mind that it is impossible to do EVERYTHING. I can't stress this enough, and I probably sound like a broken record reiterating it over and over. Do research and find a few things that are appealing which will fulfill some time while on the trip. Many times, however, one may forget to make time for one's self. Leisure days are just as much fun as being a tourist. Just remember: it is all about having fun.

Don't forget to email me your questions! Stay smart and have fun.

7s

Friday, April 8, 2011

This was great...

Hey all,

This was so great, I had to post it. Last night, A follower from Twitter posts:

"@ Don't you wonder why what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas?"

Of course, I responded, "Always" because I always do wonder how that saying came about. I'm sure it has some ties with the old Sin City reputation with which Las Vegas was tied, but yet, the saying is still alive and stronger than ever. Just look at this year's MTV Spring Break; takes place at none other than Las Vegas. What a great day for Vegas and MTV together. I had the privilege of heading to Vegas for my final Spring Break in 2009. (You all know who you are!) It was probably one of the best visits I've ever had. Sure we partied, but we still laugh about that week today. I guess it's just one of those sayings that will live on forever: What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!

7s

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Fan Questions Answered

Hey All,

First off, sorry for not writing in a few days as I have been battling quite a head cold over the last several days. I am hoping that it will be something that is on its way out. As most can see, I don't have an FAQ page created just yet and most pages are still being worked on (don't worry, I'll post when they are updated). However, I wanted to address a question I received in person earlier today:

"...my family and friends keep telling me to check out Las Vegas but I'm not really into gambling or partying very much. I just don't see a reason to go. What do you think?"

This really didn't surprise me as I have heard this question/these comments numerous times. The truth is that Las Vegas is not what it used to be. In fact, I would go as far to say that Vegas has more to do outside of gambling and drinking/partying than anything else.

I always enjoy going to Vegas with different people because I know there are thousands of things to do out there. For starters, check the entertainment calendar. There are hundreds of Las Vegas shows that run daily which may be right someone's alley. I've had the opportunity to see Phantom of the Opera (x2), Blue Man Group (x2), O, and Celine Dion. Don't forget to see who's touring through Vegas while being there. One of my greatest experiences was being 18 and not permitted in most casinos with my family. Sure, I was upset, but I was able to score tickets to Paul McCartney's Back in the U.S. tour at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, a sold out show of a living legend. I will remember that for the rest of my life and it happened in Vegas! Don't forget about the free nightly shows as well, such as the fountains at Bellagio or the Sirens of T.I.

There's also plenty of places to experience fine dining. Thomas Keller's Bouchon and Emril's Del Monico Steakhouse are two places I would never want to bypass. If luxurious dining isn't your bag, there are also places like Carnegie Deli in the Mirage or Planet Hollywood in Caesar's Palace.

The bottom line is don't let the old Vegas history stop a trip. At least experience what Las Vegas has to offer. It's like anything else, one should experience it before passing judgement. I'm not saying everyone will be a Vegas traveling guru like myself, but the experience will definitely last a lifetime. Thanks for the question!

7s

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Keeping A Budget in mind Part II

I know that yesterday I wrote about keeping a budget in mind while in Las Vegas. I know it will make me sound like a broken record, but I can't stress this topic enough. Rather leaving most Vegas travelers on their own, here are a few pointers that I like to live by when visiting my favorite city in the country:
  • Keep taxi rides to a minimum. Most of them will average about $20 or so (That's one way with tip, usually for me). I try to limit my taxi rides to four a visit: One to and from the airport and downtown. That's it. Also, if taxi is your mode of transportation from the airport to a resort on the strip, keep off the interstate. Like many other experienced Vegas travelers, this could be the difference between a $10 ride and a $20+ ride. Just tell the driver "...take me to [hotel on the strip], but please take Paradise Rd." Now, there is not guarantee that it will save money (traffic, etc), but it's definitely more likely to be cheaper than the interstate.
  • Be mindful of beverage purchases. Most bars/nightclubs can be very expensive. A few years ago, I spent nearly $15 on a beer at a nightclub. $15 a beer?! Yep. Remember, drinks are free if your gambling, unless you tip your waitress (which I always recommend doing.) Throw a few bucks on a table or in a slot and play until a drink arrives, then cash out. Simple. Some bars on the strip or state liquor stores will have $1 domestics or $1.50 beers. Bottom line: Don't spend more than you need to...unless you can afford to splurge on crystal at a nightclub =)
  • Finally, always consider signing up for all the resorts' rewards programs. These are a great way to earn comps at your favorite Las Vegas resorts. I've linked a few of them below, and they are a great way to earn free drinks, show tickets, meals, and even nights at the resort. I encourage everyone to partake in what these fine establishments have to offer their guests.
Remember, be smart, play responsible, and have fun!

7s

Friday, April 1, 2011

Keeping a Budget in mind Part I

A topic that may be sore for some; how to budget vacation money when on a visit to Las Vegas. Remember, visiting Sin City is similar to grocery shopping while hungry: everything looks delicious, but affording it is not possible. Keep this same mentality when passing that favorite casino, outlet store, and/or restaurant.

One thing I like to do is make my dinner and show reservations before I even get to the airport. This way, I don't get myself into trouble while in Vegas. The plan doesn't have to be followed verbatim, but be mindful of what can be spent. Staying within a budget will allow you to return keep returning and enjoying all that Las Vegas has to offer.

7s

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Page Update: Travel

Hey everyone,

The travel page has been updated with some tips on traveling to and from Las Vegas. Be sure to check it out. More updates will be coming soon!

7s

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Ohio weather making me want to travel

Although there isn't much I do not like, the accelerated changes associated with Ohio weather has to rank at the top of my list. Sun this morning...Rain by lunch...and now, snow during dinner; all of this makes my mind wander back to my favorite vacation spot: Las Vegas.

I can vividly recall that nearly every trip I've taken to Sin City has resulted in a great experience with more than acceptable weather. Nearly every trip I've taken out west has given me mostly sunny skies and temperatures ranging from the mid 70s up to the low 90s. The worst day was in the upper 60s/low 70s with some wind guests near 20mph. I'll take that over snow any day. If you haven't noticed, I am an avid fan of summer-like weather.

Don't get me wrong. I don't mind living in a climate that gets to experience all four seasons, but sometimes, one has to know when enough is enough. I'm greatly looking forward to this year's trip out west and all the great weather that will be coming with it.

7s

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Welcome!

Welcome to my page!

Well, like the title says above, I decided to start this blog in hopes of helping Las Vegas travelers get the most from their Las Vegas experience. I've had the opportunity to visit Vegas several times since 2005 (prior to my turning 21). During each visit, my goal was to have new experiences that I would cherish for the rest of my life. So far, I have not disappointed.

Let's just say that since turning 21, each trip I have taken to Las Vegas was with first-time travelers. It is because of these individuals, and other first time travelers that I will not accompany on their maiden journey, that this blog is even being created.

We're going to be discussing LOTS of different elements of the city including hotels, flight tips, pools, nightlife, casinos, dining, shows, and a whole lot more. Honestly, there is so much to do there, it's hard to even describe what Vegas is all about. That's why I always say that someone has to "see it to believe it."

So, if you are an aspiring Las Vegas traveler, then follow this blog and keep up with what I will be posting. Comments and emails are strongly encouraged as well; especially by readers who are as in love with this city as I am. Bottom line, this blog is for everyone who has, will, or want to experience everything Las Vegas has to offer.

7s

About Me

My photo
Although a very passionate entrepreneur in the fields of marketing and music, I also hold a daily full-time job as an analyst. I've had the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas several times since turning 18. Sure, I've been there often, and there are no signs of stopping. Remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.