So you want to plan a trip to Las Vegas. Great decision! Now, the question is what are the nicest and fanciest places in town?
So, you say that you want to stay in the nicest hotel in Las Vegas. Well there are a couple of options for you, as there isn’t “one best option”. A good place to start would be the Five Diamond Award winning resorts. On Las Vegas Boulevard (or the strip) there is the Bellagio, Venetian, MGM Skylofts, the Four Seasons, and of course the Wynn.
When it comes to gambling and if you like to gamble high stakes, all of these properties can accommodate the limits you like to play (except the Four Seasons, as it doesn’t offer gaming). However, most of the highest rollers tend to hang out in the Wynn, Bellagio, and Venetian.
The Bellagio is a very elaborate and nicely presented hotel that just screams class. It’s most remembered for the fountains directly in front of the hotel. It offers plenty of fine dining options, and is a sight to behold. During your trip, you should take a look at the Botanical Gardens. It is an elaborate inside garden that they change throughout the year.
The Venetian is an Italian themed hotel. It has gondolas that go inside the mall, and in front of the hotel. Guests can actually ride in them with singing gondoliers. The Venetian puts an emphasis on Italian themed art and decor. The ceilings are painted like the Sistine Chapel, and the tile work and wall decorations bring the whole look together for a great visual stimulation.
The MGM Skylofts are located at the top of the MGM Grand. The MGM Skylofts are wonderful rooms with lots of luxuries and amenities that don’t come with a normal room at the MGM Grand. The MGM Grand itself is a nice place with a wide variety of gaming, dining, and entertainment options. It isn’t as flashy as say the Wynn or Bellagio, but it is still a great place.
The latest design from one of the most well known casino resort/real-estate developers is the Wynn. Steve Wynn created the Wynn and its sister property Encore, and has outdone himself yet again. Wynn’s previous projects include the Mirage, Treasure Island, and the Bellagio before they were sold off.
The Wynn, which Steve claims as, “The only hotel I’ve ever signed my name to” really has has a lot to offer its guests. In the Wynn, you’ll find fine dining, the Esplanade Shoppes which feature some of the most famous brands in retail, to a golf course, and even a Ferrari/Maserati dealership! Around every turn you will find visually stimulating displays. The Wynn really puts emphasis on luxury and great service, and is a great place to stay in Las Vegas.
You will find all of these places stunning, and absolutely wonderful. Keep in mind if you are looking for $1 drafts or $5 blackjack you won’t find it in these places. Be prepared to shell out a few extra dollars, but at the same time, if you can afford it the service and amenities in these hotels are second to none. Sometimes you just have to spoil yourself.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
The Fanciest Hotels in Las Vegas
An All Inclusive Holiday is the Best
The nation is desperate as ever to go on holiday this year as we feel the squeeze from the credit crunch with many feeling they deserve a break from the gloomy economy. The credit crunch is forcing people to look for cheaper holidays and people are turning to all inclusive holidays or cheaper destinations as a solution.
An all inclusive holiday is what you would expect it is from the name, a one off fee is paid for the package holiday where everything is included in the price from the flights, hotel, food, drink and unlike full board the alcohol is included. This enables people to budget more appropriately as they do not have to spend anything if they do not want to.
This years summer has seen all inclusive holidays increase by 19% compared to last year along with an increase in full board holidays. It is no surprise to see that the number of self catering holidays dropped by 12%.
This is seen as a sensible option for families going on holiday who are keeping to a strict budget as they can almost guarantee how much they are going to spend. Some package deals even have their activities included in the price which will satisfy the family’s needs.
Families are also travelling to destination where they maybe wouldn’t have in the past few years such as Egypt or Turkey. These destinations are seen as a less expensive alternative for holiday goers with cheaper package deals available. Again, there is no surprise to see that the more expensive destinations such as Australia or the Caribbean have seen a drop in tourism this year.
Las Vegas Hotels History
Las Vegas is known for its world-class hotels, its world-class chefs and cuisines, and its A-list roster of Celebrities that come for work, and for play. It is a wonderland that is known and that always has been known as a playground for adults. Even in the mid 1990s when the tourist board of Las Vegas tried to create a more family friendly feel, Las Vegas was always the place that grownups went to go when they wanted to be bad, even for a moment.
But the city was not always so big and bright. The city started out as a simple oasis in the middle of a Nevada desert. The town was started in earnest by John C. Fremont. He found the oasis while on an expedition. He is credited for establishing the town as a place to vacation and as a place for gambling. The reputation of the city spread and even people from overseas made their way into Las Vegas. However, the traffic was subject to laws that put a stop to gambling for a time. This was a time in the early part of the 20th century when the temperance movement was strong. Gambling and alcohol, which by the way go hand in hand, was abolished. However, this law did not drive the gambling or the alcohol away. These laws simply drove the activities underground. Indeed, many a legendary gangster from Chicago, New York, and other cities found their way to Las Vegas to make their fortunes on black market gambling, and alcohol.
When gambling and alcohol became legal again, tourists were able to partake in these activities in a safe and a legal way. In 1941, the El Rancho was built. It attracted people all over the country, as well as tourist from all over the world. Then the construction of other hotels came such as the Flamingo Grand Hotels and the Sahara Hotel. These hotels were the stomping grounds of celebrities, and other entertainers of that time.
It should be noted that during this period, the hotels stopped charging its patrons for its performances. Indeed, part of the draw then and now is the world-class entertainment that can be found in Las Vegas. This is very important to note, because not everyone wants to gamble or drink. So the shows that did and that now attract tourists make the shows very much worth the trip.
With regards to the restaurants that can be found in Las Vegas hotels, there was a time that lasted for a long period when the city had a reputation for its dirt cheap restaurants. More to the point, tourists were told to eat at the hotel buffets. A person could eat until their heart was content and they could get high-end items like steak for the price of a song. While these buffets are still in operation, Las Vegas has become a Mecca of 4 and 5 star restaurants and the chefs that run these restaurants. Many celebrity chefs have restaurant branches in various Las Vegas hotels. The hotels have proven to be a valuable place for the new and aspiring celebrity chef to break in, and to cater to the patron of fine taste and means. This type of chef might have a hard time breaking into another city or market. However, the hotels have been very welcoming to these chefs, and indeed, many new careers have been made in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Hotels – Where to Stay
Las Vegas is a great place to visit, with its ‘Disney-like’ attractions, bright lights and non-stop entertainment, it’s certainly a place you won’t forget in a hurry! Choosing from a variety of Las Vegas hotels to stay on is probably one of the most important decisions when you decide to visit Vegas. Generally people decide to stay in one of two locations, either on the strip or downtown. There are pro’s and con’s to both…
Staying on the Strip
If it’s the bright lights of Vegas which has infatuated you with the place then nothing is going to beat stopping in Las Vegas hotels on the strip, however be prepared to pay the price for it. On the strip you will find the world famous hotels which Vegas is renowned for, such as the Bellagio. Many people perceive Vegas through the way we see it on TV, mega resorts, 5 star hotels, all night casinos and a playground for the rich and famous. Stopping on the strip you really do get the buzz and feeling of all of this going on around you and really being in the thick of it. A hotel on the strip is certainly not for the faint hearted, so lets move on to the alternative choice….
Downtown
If you’re looking for a great holiday with fantastic value for money in Vegas, then nothing beats stopping in downtown Las Vegas Hotels. It’s a place for people who are only going to bet minimums at the casino and not bath in Cristal! Prices of hotels differ significantly if you choose to stay downtown, on average you can pay more than 50% less for a decent 4 start hotel downtown than you would if you stopped on the main strip. Also, getting to the strip shouldn’t be a problem either, with taxi’s and bus services operating throughout the night.
Downtown also benefits from the The Fremont Street Experience, this is basically a 4-block-long overhead LCD video display which nightly offers a sound and light show hourly beginning at 8 p.m. It also offers free quality live musical entertainment. On a typical night during the week of August 19-25, 2007, there were simultaneous performances at 2-block intervals of an excellent live rock band, a saxophonist who rivaled Kenny G, a concert pianist, and a daredevil motorcyclist show which featured 3 cyclists inside a 14′ sphere. All for free, folks. At night, Downtown’s Fremont Street Experience is like a huge block party. There is dancing in the streets – literally.
So where ever you stay in Las Vegas you can be sure to have a great time and a holiday to remember!
Free Las Vegas Activities
The scenic beauty of Nevada, inspires many to plan Las Vegas Vacations. This destination has exciting activities and attractions. Those traveling with family, will especially appreciate the free attractions available here. Each is unique and interesting.
They showcase the ambiance of the city, and provides memorable experiences for tourists. Many of these attractions are situated inside some of the great hotels in Las Vegas. Although luxury hotels in this particular city, tend to have onsite casinos, they offer much more to visitors.
An example of this is the Lion Habitat at MGM Grand. This is an attraction that draws people each day. Here visitors are able to see the stunning lions that reside here. Viewing them in their habitat is an amazing treat.
The Bellagio is one of the most popular hotel casino sites in the world. It has been featured on the big screen, as well as, the small one. This hotel offers guests a number of exciting amenities. It also has two fantastic free attractions for visitors to enjoy.
The Fountains at Bellagio are amazing. Since this attraction is free it doesn’t affect your vacation budget. It will definitely help you create a fantastic memory of your trip to Las Vegas. The fountains are best viewed during their nightly light and music show.
The Bellagio also offers visitors another beautiful attraction. The Conservatory at Bellagio is a wonderful place to unwind. Here you will find elegant plants and elaborate floral arrangements. All of these are located in one central atrium in the hotel.
Attractions visited on Las Vegas Vacations, serve to enhance your overall trip. They help tourists get a true sense of this destination. The sights and sounds of this city are very intriguing. Chocolate lovers will find one free attraction of particular interest.
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is a great place to visit. Families will especially enjoy seeing the delicious candies made here. The most important part of visiting this factory, is being able to sample the luscious chocolate offerings found here.
Families visiting Las Vegas, who have children will be looking for fun attractions. The Aquarium at Silverton Hotel is a nice way to spend the day. Viewing the marine animals that live here will appeal to children of all ages.
Another free attraction to consider is the CBS Television Research Center. Network fans will enjoy exploring this facility. Understand the inner workings of CBS can provide an interesting experience for vacationers.
Although Las Vegas is known for having some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, there many affordable lodging choices here. Every budget can be accommodated when you visit here. The Fairfield Inn hotel chain offers lodgings that are budget-friendly. These are not only reasonably prices, but provide a great level of quality.
Two locations to find a Fairfield Inn are 5775 Dean Martin Drive, and 3850 Paradise Road. These hotels have spacious rooms, that this chain has come to be associated with. The Paradise Road hotel is only moments away from the Vegas Strip, and is close proximity to many interesting activities found in the city.
A vacation to Las Vegas will provide you with adventure and excitement. It doesn’t matter which lodgings you choose, or the activities you participate in. This location is full of wonder and beauty. The more you see of this city, the more you will want to see.
Three Exotic All Inclusive Honeymoon Packages
All inclusive honeymoon packages offer a great value for newlywed couples and provide time saving convenience, but many people think that these resorts are only located in the Caribbean. While this was true in the past, increasingly all inclusive resort chains are building all inclusive resorts around the world. Here are three suggestions for incredible all inclusive honeymoons in exotic locations.
1. Club Med Bali in Indonesia- Located in the shadow of the Batur volcano just feet from the beach, this Indonesian resort recently underwent a fifteen million dollar renovation. The more contemporary and stylish feel is a boon to honeymooners who travel to Bali from around the world. Although it was named one of the best family resorts in the world in 2009, this resort has plenty for couples to enjoy whether out on the beach, taking a cooking class, or exploring the sights of Indonesia with Club Med’s excursion program. Airfare to Bali is hassle free as Club Med can arrange your flight from New York City.
2. Club Hotel Riu Funana or Garopa in Cape Verde- Riu is a resort brand which caters to travelers from across the globe, such it has locations all over the world. The Riu Funana and Garopa in Cape Verde tends to attract a lot of European and African tourists, but also provides a unique honeymoon for American couples. Cape Verde is located off the coast of Africa and has a strong Portuguese flavor. Riu Funana and Garopa are twin resorts located on the Island of Sol, a dessert like oasis in the Atlantic. Both provide excellent value and plenty of romance.
3. Breezes in Panama- Breezes became famous through its Caribbean locations, but Breezes first location on the Pacific offers a welcome respite from the typical island fare In recent years, Panama has become one of the world’s most popular eco-tourism destinations. Nearly one-third of Panamas land is devoted to national parks, wildlife preserves, and other protected lands. On resort, there’s an endless array of activities and sports to keep honeymooners busy.
If your dream honeymoon includes a stay at an all inclusive resort, you don’t need to be limited to a Caribbean destination. No matter where your honeymoon takes place, there is an all inclusive resort that can fit your needs.
All Inclusive India Tour Packages
India is a land of rich and diverse culture, enigmatic traditions and dynamic lifestyle. The India tour packages offers you a visit around such a land, which although was ruled by the Britishers for over more than a century, did not lose its identity. As you travel from one place to another, you will only be opening a new door to heaven. You can choose from the various tourist destinations that India travel packages have got to offer. These places include Manali, Shimla, Goa, Nainital, Munnar, Kanyakumari, Corbett, Ooty, Kodaikanal and more such exotic places.
The India tour packages offer you the chance to visit Corbett, where the Corbett National Park is located. The zoo is rich in different species of birds, animals, plants and wildflowers. Through the India travel packages, you will be accommodated in Garden Cottage. Moreover, you will be provided with regular breakfast as well as dinner. You can also avail of the spa treatment that the resort specially arranges for its customers. You will also be treated with an Ayurvedis body massage that will relax your body muscles and will help you rejuvenate the new self within you. You will also be treated with Indonesian bath too, which will be an ultimate experience for you.
The India tour packages also offer a trip to Cochin, the second largest city of the state of Kerala. The city has the Arabian Sea on its west and the Western Ghats on its east, thus rendering it with ultimate picturesque beauty. The India vacation packages take you to a city which, once upon a time, had ties and relations with the Arabs, the Dutch, the British, the Chinese and the Portuguese. The ancient and historical monuments and temples clearly reflect the lifestyle and thinking of the Portuguese.
The India vacation packages take you to the holy and sacred land of Rishikesh. On reaching this place, you will be offered accommodation in a deluxe room. You will also be served two meals. i.e. breakfast and lunch or breakfast and dinner. You will also be provided with 2 bottles of mineral water daily all through your vacation in the place. The India travel packages ensures that you are accommodated in such a hotel that offers you easy means to reach and have the darshan of the Holy Ganga and get rid of all your sins. You will also be greeted with a welcome dream on your arrival to the hotel.