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Going to Vegas

theorangeman

Well-Known Member
Joined
Sep 5, 2005
Messages
2,965
While I still need to tie up a couple loose ends, it appears that I'm heading to Vegas during the first few days of March Madness. I'm sure it's going to be packed but still a lot of fun. The last time I was in Vegas was nearly eight years ago so I'm sure a lot has changed, including smoking laws, hence the reasoning for the email. It looks like I'll be staying at Bally's. A few questions come to mind for those who know Vegas fairly well:

1. They still permit smoking cigars in casinos, correct? I remember a while back some discussion about this but I don't recall what happened. That would really be unfortunate if I couldn't bring some of my favorites with me as I belly up to the casino table or watch games in the sports book.

2. Since when I will be in Vegas will likely be a busy time, I would imagine that finding $5 blackjack tables will be very challenging. Anyone know of some casinos that offer such tables regardless of how busy of a week it is? While a $10 table wouldn't break me, I like the $5 ones because usually if I don't get too tanked, I can make a little bit of money while sitting at the table into the wee hours of the night.

3. From one cigar enthusiast to many others - any place I ought to frequent while I'm there?

4. Not really a Vegas question, but more of an airline one... do airlines have a problem if you carry on multiple containers of liquid substances so long as they remain under the maximum amount? I understand the container can't be over a certain number of ounces (possibly three), but I was wondering about multiple bottles within their size limits. The reason I'm asking is that I was thinking of bringing a handful of mini-bottles with me on my carry on luggage.

5. Any other suggestions for when I'm in Vegas?

I'm really looking forward to the trip. Hell, I'll probably need a couple days off from work when I return home just to recuperate! :laugh:
 
For #2 most of the only casinos that have $5 blackjack are in downtown and there are a limited amount of tables. If you play blackjack on the strip expect to pay $10 at most places and $15 at the higher end places.

#3 I'd suggest Casa Fuente in Caesars if you like overpriced fuente stuff. When I was there I got the Casa Fuente sampler for $150.
 
For #2 most of the only casinos that have $5 blackjack are in downtown and there are a limited amount of tables. If you play blackjack on the strip expect to pay $10 at most places and $15 at the higher end places.

#3 I'd suggest Casa Fuente in Caesars if you like overpriced fuente stuff. When I was there I got the Casa Fuente sampler for $150.

I wish I only spent $150.00 :(. Definately go check it out. I just returned from there and it was great. You can smoke cigars on the casino floor. At least at Caesers and the Bellagio.

Jim
 
1. They still permit smoking cigars in casinos, correct? I remember a while back some discussion about this but I don't recall what happened. That would really be unfortunate if I couldn't bring some of my favorites with me as I belly up to the casino table or watch games in the sports book.

Smoking is still allowed in casinos. You will have no problem there.


2. Since when I will be in Vegas will likely be a busy time, I would imagine that finding $5 blackjack tables will be very challenging. Anyone know of some casinos that offer such tables regardless of how busy of a week it is? While a $10 table wouldn't break me, I like the $5 ones because usually if I don't get too tanked, I can make a little bit of money while sitting at the table into the wee hours of the night.

$5 tables at the major resorts are almost non-existant even at off-peak times. When they do have them, its usually 1 table with an automatic shuffler. $10 tables on the other hand are plentiful. I know Casino Royale across from the Mirage always has $5 tables


3. From one cigar enthusiast to many others - any place I ought to frequent while I'm there?

I like the Fuente Lounge in Cesars, but other than that, I prefer smoking in the casino or at the pool.

4. Not really a Vegas question, but more of an airline one... do airlines have a problem if you carry on multiple containers of liquid substances so long as they remain under the maximum amount? I understand the container can't be over a certain number of ounces (possibly three), but I was wondering about multiple bottles within their size limits. The reason I'm asking is that I was thinking of bringing a handful of mini-bottles with me on my carry on luggage.

You are limited to 3 oz per container and all containers must fit within a 1 qt ziplock bag. Don't plan on brining on any alcohol because they will toss it.

5. Any other suggestions for when I'm in Vegas?

Normally the time you are going is extremely busy, but this year it really will be a lot less crazy. I continue to get "free" offers for March Madness, which in recent years was impossible. The group I go with during March Madness is staying at the Orleans for $70/night. Last year, the same rooms were going for $175-$200/night. Vegas is desperate right now.

I'm a big gambler so I spend the majority of my day at the sportsbook, blackjack table or craps pit. When I need to get away from the tables, I just take a stroll down the strip and take everything in. The strip never gets old even though I try and go once or twice a year. Other than that, I suggest getting a great steak while there. My personal favorite is the Country Club at Wynn Las Vegas since they char-broil their steaks. In all honesy, I haven't had a bad steak in Vegas.

Enjoy the trip. You will have a blast.


I'm really looking forward to the trip. Hell, I'll probably need a couple days off from work when I return home just to recuperate!
 
To tell you the truth, I would not think it will be packed. Vegas is having some hardships right now.

1. I believe you still can. When I was there Bellagio was fine with it. But I don't believe the Poker room allowed it.
2. Not sure. You may have some luck off strip.
3. Casa Fuente in Caesars Forum Shops & Davidoff in MGM Grand or Venetian
4. Technically only if it all fits in a 1 quart zip lock bag
5. Depending on your preferences. Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, plenty of tourist attractions.
 
Nick,
A friend of mine was just there and to his surprise the Monte Carlo had $5 tables going. This was (2) weeks ago and during a convention. So you may get lucky on your part of the strip.

There is a place called "Slots of Fun" down on the other end of the strip( next to Circus Circus) that has $1 tables. They also have $1 Heineken and Corona's. It's not your typical layout as it has open doors/open air.

As far as sightseeing...man you have alot of free choices. Mirage Volcano.TI show , Bellagio fountains....and just people watching is a trip.


Have fun bud...and good luck
 
I am headed there this weekend, I will check back and let you know if crowds are going to be lighter than normal. (My friends who work in the casinos out there are noting a marked decrease in visitors).

:cool:
 
4. If you want to bring booze just wrap it well and put it in your check-on luggage.
It might not make it but it probably will.

5. If you have a car check out Red Rocks or Lake of Fire (if you like hiking and the outdoors).

Make an appointment to see the Neon Museum Bone Yard.
I've always wanted to do this but usually forget to until the last moment.
They have funky hours so make that appt now!

For more information log on to www.neonmuseum.org or call the office at 702-387-NEON (6366.) Office hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11 am to 5 pm.

-Rob
 
There are $5 crap tables at Imperial Palace, Tropicana and at that Irish Bar/casino across the street on the corner from Ballys....in case you can't find your $5 or $10 blackjack
 
Yeah, "O'Shea's" usually has some deals on at times. Also, Bills Gambling Hall and Saloon (next to the Flamingo) also usually has 2 or 3 $5 tables. That's where we always stay as we found we usually ended up there so may as well stay there too. Harrah's is good for $5 also.

Mike
 
The biggest suggestion I can give you at this time is to take my information on my profile, book me a ticket, and take me with you! :laugh:

In all seriousness I haven't been to Vegas in quite some time so I unfortunately cannot help you out much with any REAL suggestions. Have fun! :thumbs:
 
Yeah, "O'Shea's" usually has some deals on at times. Also, Bills Gambling Hall and Saloon (next to the Flamingo) also usually has 2 or 3 $5 tables.

Be careful playing at Bill's. If I remember correctly, all BJ tables there pay 6:5 on blackjack instead of the standard 3:2. This is horrible for the players!!! Also, stay away from single deck games as the majority of them also pay 6:5 on blackjack. Your best low limit games out there have the following rules:
  • 6 deck shoes
  • split any 2 cards
  • re-split aces
  • Stand on Soft 17 (Hit on soft 17 has however become the low limit standard in the last few years, but Stand soft 17 is better if you can find it)
  • Blackjack pays 3:2
  • Double on Any 2 Cards

Best of luck to you out there.
 
1. They still permit smoking cigars in casinos, correct? I remember a while back some discussion about this but I don't recall what happened. That would really be unfortunate if I couldn't bring some of my favorites with me as I belly up to the casino table or watch games in the sports book.

Still can smoke in the casinos. If you are at Bally's, check out Napoleans in the Paris. They are connected to Ballys.

2. Since when I will be in Vegas will likely be a busy time, I would imagine that finding $5 blackjack tables will be very challenging. Anyone know of some casinos that offer such tables regardless of how busy of a week it is? While a $10 table wouldn't break me, I like the $5 ones because usually if I don't get too tanked, I can make a little bit of money while sitting at the table into the wee hours of the night.

Like others have said, downtown for lower limits. I also like that at places like the cal, mainstreet, fremont they have single and double deck instead of a shoe.


3. From one cigar enthusiast to many others - any place I ought to frequent while I'm there?

Casa Fuente of course. If you like coffee, they serve french press pots at your table. However, if you want some awesome prices check out the Paiute Indian smoke shop. They are about 1/2 a mile past the main street casino going out of town. They dont have lots of the super premium stuff like opus but they do have vsg, padron, etc. They have the best prices in town! Their VSG is usually below MSRP. I usually go there and load up on some smokes while in vegas.


5. Any other suggestions for when I'm in Vegas?

Last time I was there, I really enjoyed the Jersey Boys show at the Palazzo.
 
If you like sushi and Kobe beef the best resturaunt in THE WORLD, is Social House at Treasure Island. The hotel sucks, but the Social House is the best sushi resturaunt around. And yes it is even better than Nobu.

DE
 
I didn't know about Social House. I'll have to try that. Last time we hit Sushi Roku right above Casa Fuente, it was phenomenal and the happy hour specials were an insanely good deal.

As far as smoking areas go, you are only allowed to smoke in gaming areas. In public areas such as hallways between the casino and hotel, or to the pool, etc., smoking is not allowed. The only exception I know of is in front of Casa Fuente.
 
1. They still permit smoking cigars in casinos, correct? I remember a while back some discussion about this but I don't recall what happened. That would really be unfortunate if I couldn't bring some of my favorites with me as I belly up to the casino table or watch games in the sports book.

Still can smoke in the casinos. If you are at Bally's, check out Napoleans in the Paris. They are connected to Ballys.

2. Since when I will be in Vegas will likely be a busy time, I would imagine that finding $5 blackjack tables will be very challenging. Anyone know of some casinos that offer such tables regardless of how busy of a week it is? While a $10 table wouldn't break me, I like the $5 ones because usually if I don't get too tanked, I can make a little bit of money while sitting at the table into the wee hours of the night.

Like others have said, downtown for lower limits. I also like that at places like the cal, mainstreet, fremont they have single and double deck instead of a shoe.

3. From one cigar enthusiast to many others - any place I ought to frequent while I'm there?

Casa Fuente of course. If you like coffee, they serve french press pots at your table. However, if you want some awesome prices check out the Paiute Indian smoke shop. They are about 1/2 a mile past the main street casino going out of town. They dont have lots of the super premium stuff like opus but they do have vsg, padron, etc. They have the best prices in town! Their VSG is usually below MSRP. I usually go there and load up on some smokes while in vegas.

5. Any other suggestions for when I'm in Vegas?

1. Yes

2. Try the smaller casinos like O'Sheas. All of the casinos are hurting right now, so you may find more available.

3. Paiute Smoke Shop on Main St. is a short taxi ride from the strip, just across the freeway from downtown. $4.75 for a Short Story, which is a lot less than at Casa. :thumbs:

4. Booze is cheap enough to buy here. Don't hassle with carrying it on. ;)

5. The SeaHorse lounge in Caesar's is right across from the Pussycat Dolls' tables. Have a cigar and one of the fruity drinks that Rod likes to get there. Great scenery, worth the price of admission. :thumbs:

Also, it is imperative that you let the Vegas crew know when you will be here. We're always up for a meet and greet smoke. Don't always connect, but, we try.
 
Looks like your questions have been answered but I will say that the view from Casa Fuente is always a treat! ;)

If you are looking for less expensive table games, try any of the Station Casinos or the Orleans which are off the strip. South of Vegas is the Silverton casino which is attached to a huge Outdoor store. Nice casino, indoor shooting and archery range and a good place to kill time.

I'll be in Vegas July 19-26 and a few assorted weekends here and there over the coming months.

Have fun!


Danny
 
Nice enjoy your trip. I recently went on a cruise and the only place we could smoke inside was in the casino and bar. It was a nice experience as it was my first time in a casino and on a cruise.
 
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