Aria Resort & Casino - "Heaven on Earth"

Aria Resort View from 16th Floor

Aria Resort & Casino Review 2014 

































The best words to explain the luxurious Aria Resort & Casino in the heart of Las Vegas City Centre would be,"Heaven on Earth".

My first experience being dropped off in front of the majestic hotel is the attention to detail, showcasing an architectural glass foyer with a waterfall cascading down its sleek dark granite walls, giving you this immediate calming effect. Professional employees are ready to assist, making your stay comfortable.


Months before going to Las Vegas, we always check out all our options,making sure our stay is the most enjoyable possible. Aria Resort and Casino wasn't any different.  We asked for a couple of "Special Requests" which I noticed they offered on their website.

This was their reply:

Dear Mr. Demers,

Thank you for your most recent email. We are delighted to confirm your reservation for an arrival __________ for 5 evenings and to inform you that our Supervisor has approved the 2 options you are requesting, the Express Check-in option and the Late Check-out option...

Should you choose to secure any gourmet dinner reservations at Jean Georges Steakhouse or Javiers to name a few or maybe a show reservation such as Zarkana, Love or “O” prior to your arrival please feel free to contact our Concierge at concierge@arialasvegas.com and they will be happy to assist you. We look very forward to welcoming you as guests
of ARIA Resort and Casino and trust you will enjoy your stay.

Kindest regards,

SarahRose Gilsdorf
Wholesale Coordinator

T 702.590.9728
F 702.590.9723
sgilsdorf@aria.com

Without any hesitation, we were pleased with their response and already felt welcomed, months before our arrival.

We counted down the days to our first visit to ARIA Resort. Exciting!

Aria Resort and Casino, Las Vegas

Checking In 

Upon arriving at the Express Check-in we were cheerfully greeted by a young man in his twenties.  Skillfully he quickly attended to our requests.  Needless to say, check-in was seamless.

I must of looked hesitate, because he looked concerned and pleasantly said," Was there anything else we can assist you with Sir?"

I said,"No, not now, thank you."

But actually I was sort of concerned with our room being on the 16th floor, but I opted to check out the room before I said anything. I always feel uncomfortable if I have to barter for another room, if the room isn't what I hope for.


Even though the long walk from the elevators was concerning, the room was exactly what I expected. Entering our room, the remote control entrance automatically summoned the sheers to open, revealing the beautiful tropical courtyard below featuring an array of inviting pools.

Courtyard Pool at Aria Resort and Casino, Las Vegas

To our surprise, the courtyard pool view from our room was gratefully granted.

King-size Bed Room Suite at Aria Resort Las Vegas

Further investigation, we quickly noticed our requested deluxe King-size bed. Each room comes with the added features of the touch screen control Pad or accessing the Flat screen TV featuring remote sheer curtains, wake-up control, room service, music options, lighting and temperature control along with watching TV.



















The washroom facilities were also acceptable to our standards with its glass cased rain-shower and deep bathtub displaying all the towels anyone would ever need.

At first we had to hunt down where the security safe was, thinking it would be in the closet, like most hotels we have visited in Vegas. It was funny to notice inside the left closet to the immediate entrance, there was a small signage stating the location of the safe. It so happen to be inside the side-draw of our bed. Interesting spot for a safe, but it worked and that's all that really mattered. 

I'm figuring most guests were either calling about where the safe was or opening the same closet doors before us, for them to have signage directing us to the right place.   Or maybe they just thought of this ahead.   Whatever the case, the signage was a good call.

The Pool Courtyard scene at Sunrise at Aria Resort and Casino, Las Vegas

The room on the 16th floor was like "Home Away from Home" featuring all the comforts one would expect in a AAA Five Diamond Resort.

My only suggestion, if you have trouble walking (health concerns) or need to be close to an elevator, I would suggest the 25 floor and above.

Heading out to explore the vast ARIA Resort, we were greeted by the maid staff with a courtesy smile, along with allowing us "First" access along the hallways. A very nice "extra" chester incorporated by management, I'm thinking.

The Second Floor of Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas - the "Promenade"

My first couple of hours after check-in I decided to treat myself to a couple of beer at the "Lobby Bar" , while my wife decided to do some gambling. I was quickly greeted by a friendly bartender who suggested Aria's flagship "Cabaletta" draft beer, a homemade brew which turned out to be an excellent choice.

The Cabaletta beer cost $9.00 per glass.

During our stay at Aria, "The Buffet" was deemed to be our best choice offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Buffet is located on the second floor called the "Promenade".

Decorative Architectural Foyer beside "The Buffet" at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

For breakfast we had the usual options of bacon,ham,sausages, scrambled eggs and hash-browns. To our delightful surprise, they offered freshly made eggs Benedict and omelettes of your choice. Each buffet always displayed fresh seafood, such as crab, eat and peel shrimp, baked salmon, clams and mussels.

The desserts we're all "dream-like" with your taste-buds captivating every bite. Being a "chocoholic", my desiring fix was granted.


Lunch and Dinner offered Prime Rib, roasted chicken, Bavarian assorted sausages with accompanied condiments.  Each displayed a Mexican, Asian, Tandoori, or an Italian flare along with New York style Pizza to suit any worldly guest.

Seafood at "The Buffet" Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

The pricing of the buffets:

Breakfast: [Monday - Friday] $19.95 per person (7:00am - 11:00am)

Lunch: [Monday - Friday] $23.99 per person (11:00am - 3:30pm)

Brunch: [Saturday and Sunday] $29.99 per person (7:00am - 3:30pm)

Dinner : [Monday - Thursday] $34.99 per person (3:30pm - 10:00pm)

Gourmet Dinner : [Friday - Sunday] $39.99 per person (3:30pm -
10:00pm)


One day we had the breakfast, other days the lunch or dinner buffets, including the brunch on Saturday and the Gourmet Dinner on Friday.  Each time we weren't disappointed by the fine food selections at "The Buffet".


Throughout our stay at Aria Resort and Casino, we had a few "comp" credits by using our "MyVegas Rewards" which I highly recommend.  Most of our buffets didn't cost us a dime due to using our rewards.

The Convention Centre at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas - Second Floor

Exploring Aria Resort and Casino was certainly a must on our list, locating the grand Convention Centre with easy access to a Business Office, the decorative Zarkana Cirque du Soleil Theatre, the fitness centre and Spa, including my favourite, the pool courtyard.

All the above are also located on the "Promenade", second floor of the Aria hotel.

The Oasis Pool Courtyard at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas - "Heaven on Earth"

The vast courtyard with each pool nestled in between a tropical garden landscape could be described like walking through your very own Eden.

In short, it's paradise!

Beautiful pools throughout the Courtyard at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

The service was impeccable starting with friendly greetings by security whom we soon became friends, during our many visits to the pool. From the bartenders, the bikini bar maids to the front staff offering you towels, they were all professional and courtesy.

Jean Phillips Patisserie Restaurant - Halloween Display - The Witch  

Each day coming out from the guest elevators we either past by or went into Jean Philippe Patisserie restaurant. This time of the year you can see Halloween displays, like the well crafted witch.




























One night we decided to enjoy a pizza at Five50 Pizza Bar, ordering out a full "Gotham" (pepperoni, sausage, salami, mozzarella and Grana Padano) pizza pie. We ordered the $28 pizza to go because we wanted to relax in our room.

The pizza was simply delicious!

The ARIA is a upscale lavish Resort with an array of fine dining opportunities to choose from.


This particular visit we didn't have a chance to try out Jean Georges Steakhouse or Javiers, but we noticed passing by each restaurant, they were certainly filled on a daily basis. My suggestion would be to make reservations ahead to avoid any disappointment.

Being in Vegas, you always want to get most of your stay, so late evenings were just another typical day.

This particular evening, I tried out "In Room Dining" and wasn't disappointed by the great service from the time I phoned to when the meal was brought up to our room. It was just a "Classic Burger" but it was one of the best burgers I had in a long time. 

Excellent service!

Zarkana at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

On our last Friday evening in Vegas we made plans to see Zarkana by Cirque du Soleil. Once again, we weren't disappointed by the experienced performers keeping us entertained throughout.

If you haven't seen Cirque du Soleil, it's a must on your list!

Zarkana Entrance at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

Depending on your budget Vegas has a hotel to suit your lifestyle and taste. ARIA luxury comes with a discerning price tag but you are sure to leave well pampered, excellent gourmet choices along with high standards of commitment by the ARIA team.

"Heaven on Earth" at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

Our overall stay at ARIA Resort was a relaxing and rewarding trip. I highly recommend Aria Resort and Casino for your next stay in Vegas, experiencing "Heaven on Earth".

By Bari Demers

Check out more reviews and blogs

Casino Level Map of Aria Resort & Casino

Second Floor - Promenade Level at Aria Resort & Casino

Bari is a Canadian freelance writer/screenwriter who is also considered a Vegas Lover showcasing Vegas Reviews.   If he experiences a great time or adventure in Vegas, expect to hear about all the fun he and his wife had. 

They have both been going to Vegas since 1989, staying at most of the hotels of Vegas, such as The Mirage, The Bellagio, Caesars Palace, The Venetian, Excalibur, T.I. ( Treasure Island), Planet Hollywood, Aria Resort & Casino and Maxum along with tours outside of Vegas.  

Come join Bari with his "Just for Fun" Vegas Reviews Facebook Page, after all, its just for fun!

He has worked on several screenplays, such as Agent Sky, Black Angels and Missing. Presently looking into doing his own short film or collaborating with film makers for his screenplays.

James Montana Scripts

Gold Lounge at Aria Resort & Casino, Las Vegas

About Vegas Reviews:

Vegas Reviews is not associated with any Vegas Hotels or paid by it's own personal reviews of hotels in Vegas.
We're just simply a fun host Facebook page featuring only about the fun in Vegas.
When we find a wonderful stay in Vegas, I like to write about the fun we had at the Vegas Hotel.

 I don't give reviews very often, so when treated wonderful - I write about it.

Also - Vegas Reviews is not a company. Just a fun social Facebook Page having fun in Vegas. It would be nice to be paid for reviews, but this is just not the case here. So - if you enjoy all the fun in Vegas and would like to join our fun social page - please come on by : Vegas Reviews

Please share the fun and tell your friends about Vegas Reviews - Let's see how many friends of Vegas - are there?

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes with Adam Pass

Photo Credit : Adam Pass Photography

The past week on Vegas Reviews I have been writing about tours outside of Vegas for the adventurous hiker or sight-seer. It's also the right fit for all the amazing photographers, such as it was for Adam Pass.

As you already know from my last article on Death Valley National Park, a couple of friends, Romeo and Mark were scouting Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Racetrack Playa exploring the incredible Mojave desert landscape with a group of team members.

Photo Credit: Adam Pass Photography

During my search process I happily discovered Adam Pass, a professional photographer from Montgomery, New York, who was also part of the Adobe Photoshop team. The hardy adventurers braved the cold desert nights along with the scorching afternoon heat hitting higher digits, as Adam puts it," We survived the 115 degree heat, even though at times the camera didn't..."

Photo Credit: Adam Pass

Not being deterred from the Mojave desert's harsh environment, Adam's early start allowed him to capture stunning serene landscapes, featuring the rolling Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes peaking through the morning sunrise. 

Team leader Russell Preston Brown (Sr. Creative Director of Adobe) led the Adobe Photoshop excursion, gathering valuable data and breathtaking photos using cameras and assists by DJI drones into the late night. 

Photo Credit : Adam Pass

Adam's spectacular night shot of freezing Romeo instantly into a Jedi master and suddenly transporting him to an eerie alien planet, was indeed awe inspiring. The Mojave Desert was alive with human activity, sparkling into the starry night sky.

It's hard to believe the hustle and bustle of Vegas is only a mere two hour drive from a desert famously known to all film producers and screenwriters,like myself.


If you love the outdoors and looking for something different in tours while in Vegas, experiencing the Mesquite Flat Dunes in Death Valley National Park should definitely be on your bucket list. 

Photo Credit: Visual-Aerials 

PHOTOGRAPHY & VEGAS REVIEWS

Photography is a big part of Vegas Reviews, even though I'm very much considered an amateur, but having the opportunity to meet fun interesting professional photographers, like Adam Pass and my DJI drone friends, Romeo and Mark with Visual-Aerials, it's sure to highlight some of the best photography within Vegas Reviews.


And it's without question, Adams experience in photography exceeds from the "norm" with an exceptional eye for beauty, awe inspiring landscapes along with capturing those 
precious moments.

Photo Credit : Adam Pass

Being able to reach out with social platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, gives writers, photographers and artist the opportunity to connect with each other. Not to mention the immense value of showcasing their expertise. 

This is the difference between Vegas Reviews from the rest, it's more in-depth articles about Vegas and its surrounding Nevada landscape, reaching throughout the State of Arizona and even the tips of California. Vegas Reviews brings you closer to the experiences of the Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon to the inspiring Death Valley featuring photographers, artists and writers.

Aria Landscape - Photo Credit: Bari Demers 

And to continue making Vegas Reviews apart from the rest, our overall reviews of Vegas hotels and entertainment has a style of its own, simply because our motto is about, "Lets have fun in Vegas". 

In short, we only mention the good side of our experiences with each hotel, entertainment or tour adventure. If ever our experience turns out to be terrible, we just never talk about it. 

And trust me there's has been a few.

Photo Credit: Adam Pass

I would like to personal thank Adam Pass for his permission in showcasing his wonderful works of art in photography. Take a moment to check out his website, Adam's Photography. 

It's also a humbling experience to be able to interact with my friends, Romeo and Mark of Visual-Aerials. I truly appreciate their permission too.

If you're interested in showcasing your photos on Vegas Reviews, just message me. 

If your photo or art piece is about Las Vegas, Nevada, Arizona, along with tours and entertainment photos, my blog community of Vegas Lovers are very interested to see and hear about your fun experiences on Vegas Reviews! 


And of course, feel free to pass along to your friends. The more Vegas Lovers, the better!

By Bari Demers

Bari is a Canadian freelance writer/screenwriter who is also considered a Vegas Lover showcasing Vegas Reviews - If he experiences a great time or adventure, expect to hear about the fun he and his wife had,"Going to Vegas since 1989..."

He has worked on several screenplays, such as Agent Sky, Black Angels and Missing. Presently looking into doing his own short film or collaborating with film makers for his screenplays. 

http://jrobbmontana.com 

Touring Death Valley

Photo Credit: Death Valley courtesy of Romeo Durscher 

While in Vegas, even though you can keep yourself busy in Sin City, it's fun to adventure outside Vegas, like a couple of my friends did. 

Most tourist head out to the Grand Canyon or maybe the Hoover Dam, but few think about the 140 mile long Death Valley. 

Death Valley 

Approximately 120 miles from Vegas, Death Valley National Park takes a couple hours each way, so it's best to plan for the whole day. Vegas adventure companies offers tours into Death Valley for around $200 per person by coach or even in a pink jeep.

Photo Credit: Visuals-Aerials

In Death Valley National Park, this past week, Romeo and Mark were scouting Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Racetrack Playa with their team mates exploring the incredible Mojave desert landscape. 

What they brought back is picturesque and from a scientific point of view, extremely interesting. For example, how amazing are those "racing" rocks sliding across the valleys dry lake. With some rocks weighing in at 700 lbs, it's hard to believe nature is dragging these babies across the lakebed.

Photo Credit : Romeo Durscher 

But, believe it or not, the mighty force of nature, (Sorry, no Aliens here) is pushing them along at a very slow descent. Scientists believe the lighter rocks have been moved by wind and if the temperature is just right, they will glide across on very thin sheets of ice. But this is only part of the equation and to fully understand their theory, check it out here.

Photo Credit: Adam Pass Photography 

The overall terrain is indeed diverse, with Badwater Basin 282 feet below sea level. In this photo taken by Adam Pass of Romeo Durscher holding a saber,(trick photography) it's customary practice to take a shot standing in the lowest part of the Mojave desert. As you can see Adam Pass is very creative.

If you're adventurous, it only make sense to pay Death Valley National Park a visit on your next trip into Vegas. And the next best thing, if you can't be in Vegas, follow my fun based Vegas Reviews with interesting articles, blogs and photos. 

In Conclusion

I would like to thank Adam Pass, Romeo and Mark for their permission to display the above spectacular photos.

Romeo and Mark, a couple of cool guys, who are themselves highly trained professionals - Romeo works with NASA while Mark is a Lawyer and partner with Fat Monster Films. They run a website called Visual Aerials, using DJI Drones producing amazing footage throughout the world.  Adam is a trained photographer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography.

Indeed, all their work is inspirational!

They were all part of a Drone Workshop at the Adobe Photoshop World in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Russell (Doc) Brown led the team of experts with hosts, such as Jeff Foster, Colin Guin, Romeo Durscher,Mark Johnson, Adam Pass, Stephen Wheatcraft, Chase Jarvis and Peter Sashe, who all made the two day show a flying success.


By Bari Demers   

About Bari: a freelance writer/screenwriter along with his fun Facebook Page : Vegas Reviews - all about fun, if its not fun, I don't write about it. 

Photo Credit: Bari Demers

#SeeyouinVegas !

How to become Vegas Lovers

The Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

Vegas Lovers are those people who love everything Vegas has to offer.  It's all about having fun, trying out the abundance of restaurants, great entertainment or enjoying the facilities of your favorite hotel. A little bit of gambling doesn't hurt either.  And let's not forget, the weekend party goers hitting the Vegas clubs in full force, making the most of little time they have.

Problem : So, how do you become a Vegas Lover?

Well, first and foremost you must love going to Vegas.

Solution: Take Vegas in baby-steps. 

In other words, don't try to see Vegas all in one visit. You are sure to burn out fast! Keep coming back every year and if you have the money and ambition, make it three times a year. Otherwise Vegas can become overwhelming, trying to see everything in a one time vacation. 

Problem :  Don't think you're coming to Vegas to make money. The reality 
of gambling is all together something else.

Solution :  If you classify yourself as NOT a professional gambler, like me, 
then take these pointers into consideration. Become a "Healthy Safe 
Gambler".

The thought of winning a jackpot of $2.4 million or even a few thousand can make Vegas a tantalizing dream come true. But the reality of actually winning is just that, a dream. 

Try to think of it this way and you will never leave disappointed. 

Plan Ahead : 

Before going to Vegas, give yourself a certain amount of spending money (cash) that you know ahead of time will be used for playing blackjack, roulette or the slots. Break it down on a daily basis how much of this cash you can spend during your overall stay in Vegas. Make this your "Gambling Budget" and stick to it!

 For example:

Let's say you allow for $350 per day during your 4 days. Once that amount of money is gone, it's time to do something else. Head to the pool, go see the free sights throughout the Vegas Strip or treat yourself to a cheap lunch. 

Not only does this give you time to enjoy other activities of Vegas, it also lets you reflect, take a step back or think how much you have spent in just one day. Even spread your gambling allowance for the day into thirds. And never convince yourself, you'll just use the next days funds to get back on track. Gambling is a tricky web and before you know it, you have spent all your "gambling allowance" in just one day. And worst yet, you're heading for a cash advance on your credit card. Never every do this! Restrict your gambling is the key. 

Problem :  Now, If by luck, you do win some money back ? (Well, not really 
a problem)

Solution :  Think of this money as BONUS MONEY.

What do I do with bonus money? 

Instead of placing it back into the casino, I make a point of treating ourselves to an expensive show or the best fine dining Vegas has to offer. 
Or, if you're frugal enough, tuck it away until you reach home to place back into the bank. Myself, I place my winnings back into the hotel I'm staying at, to make my stay even more enjoyable. 

For the ladies, how about treating yourself to the spa? 

Problem :  How much is too much ?

Solution :  Enjoying Vegas is pretty much like enjoying yourself like any other vacation. With other vacations, you take the time to plan ahead and budget for your stay.  Same with Vegas

Never "break the bank" just to take a quick vacation. Save for it, instead of running up your credit card. Coming back to a ton of bills will only make your vacation seem like a bust and worse yet, you're paying for that vacation years to come, wondering where you went wrong? 

Paris Hotel, Las Vegas

The great thing about Vegas? 

It can be affordable! In Vegas, you can spend only a couple of days and it will feel like a great mini- vacation. You don't have to spend a week in Vegas. That's the beauty about Vegas. Take as many mini-vacations you can afford! 

Problem :  Vegas is overwhelming, what should I do? 

Solution :  The first time or even second and third,  visiting Vegas, you may have the tendency to enjoy everything at once.  It's only natural to think this way, but try your best to absorb Vegas a little at a time.

For Example: 
Your staying at the Luxor Hotel & Casino on the south-side of the strip.  But, now you want to go to a buffet or see an attraction at the Wynn, Las Vegas.  Sure, you can take the deuce bus system or hop on a cab, but then you'll find yourself spending most of your time traveling. Not to mention, riding the deuce bus is like being stuff in a sardine can.

The best way to make your stay more enjoyable?

Stay and do things related to the south side of the Vegas Strip.  On the North end?  Do things related to the North side. Its that simply and less confusing.

Staying on the South side?

You can see as much as you want and go as far as the Bellagio, Las Vegas, just using  the FREE Aria Express.  There are plenty of shops, including  plenty of other hotels to see, such as  Excalibur and MGM Grand, not to mention you're a stones throw away from Mandalay Bay adjoining the new addition of the Delano, Las Vegas.

Problem :  How do I keep up with all what's going on in Vegas ?

Solution :  Keep in touch by joining their "Players Card Club", keep sociable by joining your favorite Vegas Hotel on Facebook and of course join my Vegas Lovers Personal Blog Facebook Page : Vegas Reviews.

In Conclusion :  

Enjoy Vegas as a Vegas Lover is a way to ensure a rich fun based vacation without any regrets.  Ok - so who wants to go to Vegas?  

I do, I do!

By Bari Demers
Personal blogger and freelance writer. Check out my screenplay
http://jrobbmontana.com