Photo Credit: Charles
Investors and High Rollers have been a crucial part of Las Vegas , ever since Californian hotel operator Thomas Hull built the first hotel and Casino El Rancho back in the middle of the Mojave Desert on a dusty stretch of road called Highway 91, the town of Las Vegas has never looked back.
Not long after El Rancho featured its first air-conditioned cowboy ranch themed hotel with its revolutionary neon billboard windmill looming over across the empty desert floor, mobster and hitman Bugsy Siegel came looking to invest with his partner Meyer Lansky’s drug money , after hearing about lucrative legalized gambling. Shortly after, Ben Siegel bought El Cortez for $600,000 and selling it for a profit, the legendary Flamingo was taken over and financed by New York Mafia Boss Charles “ Lucky” Luciano and Meyer Lansky joint adventure. It wasn’t long after that, the Mafia lead the way, moving Las Vegas forward, building the Sahara, the Sands, the New Frontier, the Riviera , Golden Nugget, the Desert Inn and Caesars Palace. In fact, they had their fingers-in-the-cookie-jar up until the late 1980’s.
Even though The Mafia mastered casino skimming and money laundering, they were also the first to encouraged a web of wealthy businessmen and politicians to Las Vegas with lucrative perks, such as free accommodations , complimentary wining and dining at the best Gourmet Restaurants, premium cocktails and the best seats at top shows, such as Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra and Frankie Valli, as long as they gambled big in their casino.
It was the beginning of “The Las Vegas High Rollers”.
After the mafia was forcibly removed from Las Vegas, corporate companies moved in , building mega Resorts, ( starting with Steve Wynn at the top of the helm) with The Mirage. Soon after came the Excalibur, the Luxor, Treasure Island, new location of MGM Grand, The Strat, Park MGM, New York, New York, Bellagio ( again by Steve Wynn) , Mandalay Bay, The Venetian, Paris, Planet Hollywood to The Wynn, were all built in from November 22 1989 – April 28 2005 ; and it hasn’t stopped since then.
Today Vegas is the top Entertainment Capital of the World !
With over 37 plus million visitors per year to Las Vegas as of 2023 ; that’s ample room to attract High Rollers across the world.
So, the question is : What makes a High Roller?
To answer that question you need to hear the inside secret life of a High Roller. Lucky for me, I can answer that very question. This week, I had the exclusive privileged to talk to Charles ( aka @ChampChaz02 ) himself , Vegas latest High Roller from the UK.
Photo Credit: Charles
Interview with Las Vegas High Roller
Here’s our conversation:
ME : Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you Charles. What would you say is the definition of a true Las Vegas High Roller ?
CHARLES : I believe a definition of a high roller is different to everyone. If you see someone gambling more than you can afford or imagine gambling, you would consider them a high roller in your own eyes. I would think it is probably a question for the casino rather than the player.
ME : It’s been said your Casino Host is there to ensure YOU the best experience possible. How do they know what they are allowed to give you as perks. Is there some sort of percentage mark in how much you gamble?
CHARLES : A host’s job is to make everything as seamless as possible for a high value player. From booking suites, transportation, dinner or show reservations to tickets to events. A good host will only need an initial email or call for the dates you want to stay, Flight number, where and when you want to eat and what show or sports events you want to attend. Once you let them know what you want to do on the trip that’s it consider it done I don’t need to worry about any organization it’s in good hands from the minute I step off the plane. A host can pretty much get you anything if it is available to the casino and you are gambling enough money historically. I have told people in the past “Closed mouths do not get fed” just ask. Boxing, UFC and F1 tickets Done! Reservations to fully booked restaurants? Done! Rooms for family or friends while you are in Vegas? Done! Always ask as a good host will do everything in their power to get it done,
ME : Is it true your Casino Host can make or break your experience? Have you ever had a bad Casino Host or experience?
CHARLES : I went through a couple bad hosts before I found the one I have now. The first host I had a gentleman approach me at a slot machine “Mr ****? My name is **** I just wanted to come introduce myself, give you my card and invite you over to the VIP check in area/Host office of Mandalay Bay when you get a minute so we can talk about the comps and bonuses I can do for you as a high value player”. I had a 15 minute conversation where he explained if I let him book my next trip I will get a top of the range suite, complimentary limo transportation to and from the airport and a substantial raise in free play and resort credit.
So I thought why not and contacted him before my next trip and he delivered on his promise but he called my suite daily asking me to visit the office when I had a minute. A day later or so and slightly annoyed with the calls I paid him a visit where he gave me this mafioso style talk about how I have a friend in Vegas now and any problems I have I should come to him. He then went on to say we should go to dinner and that if I looked after him then he would look after me and suggested a restaurant and time to which I declined. I didn’t travel half way around the world and work hard to wine and dine someone I don’t know so that was the last time I spoke to him.
I then went to book my next trip via the phone app to stay at the Mirage (still MGM at this point) to which I received a phone call from the host saying I wouldn’t be eligible for the free play and resort credit I had booked via the app because he was my host and I was registered to the Mandalay Bay and him. Not caring and not needing these comps I went ahead with my trip and paid a visit to the hosts office where the host I met assured me that wasn’t the case. She took me over to the VIP upgraded my suite to a penthouse suite and credited my account with the free play and resort credit I booked via the app with a little more on top and just like that I had a new host.
The relationship with this host for a couple years was great up until the point the MGM sale of The Mirage was rumoured. At this point we noticed our comps slightly decreased despite more play and the final bill being comped less and less. My host kept dropping into conversation that when “we” move to Hardrock things will be better and I got suspicious she was holding back comps to make Hardrock look more appealing. This was then confirmed when she invited us to go and see new the new Mad Apple show at New York New York with 15 other VIPs followed by a cocktail reception in Mirage’s top villa where we can talk our move to Hardrock and how much better it will be because MGM are getting tight with big players.
Luckily, I had met my current host at Yellowtail in Bellagio when we had dinner with a group of friends who she was with. She asked for my rewards number and called me the next day to say I was due so much more as a Noir member and to come be hosted with her since my host was staying on at Mirage to join Hardrock. It was exactly what I did and never looked back ; my current host is amazing. I also had a terrible host at Caesars but that is probably a story for another time —haha.
ME : Are you allowed to name a Good Host or Hosts you would recommend? And, are they on Twitter ( X) ?
CHARLES : I wouldn’t name my host or recommend her unless I knew the person and the level someone was playing at. She does not need a bunch of people calling her up and its a relationship I wouldn’t risk. Many people have reached out to me on X/Twitter where I would pass on host information she has recommended but never my own.
ME : Can you name and describe some of the Best Vegas Accommodations you have stayed at as a Perk offered by your Host ?
CHARLES : My favourite suite I have stayed in was the one-bedroom Lakeview Penthouse suite in the Bellagio. It was for a trip on my birthday I got picked up from Harry Reid international in a Rolls Royce Phantom and whisked straight to the suite where a big cake, some gifts and some magnums of Bollinger were waiting for us on arrival. I just felt appreciated and well looked after.
I also have to give a shout out to the penthouse suite at Crockfords it has all the modern gadgets and technology in the room including Japanese toilets & hand held massagers. It also has the most comfortable bed I ever slept in ; if those slots were not calling my name I can stay in that bed all day.
ME : What kind of Percentage do you tip the Host ? Or do you tip your Host ? Aren’t they already taking a percentage from your gambling?
CHARLES : I am not aware of any percentage a host makes from me and to be honest that because I have never asked. My host takes great care of me and if she is making money good for her. When I first tried to tip my host she said “no no we are not allowed to take anything it could be seen as bribery” . So I wouldn’t like to say anything here that can get anyone in any trouble but I can assure you she is as happy with the relationship as we are.
ME : I understand if you’re flying Private into Vegas , you’ll land at Atlantic Aviation or Signature Flight Support. Have you received free VIP PRIVATE Jet Service? Is that even offered coming from the UK ?
CHARLES : As for Flying private I own and run a business that requires me to be in the USA for about 6 months of the year , each year. I have flown private into Las Vegas from California or Seattle but that is at my own expense. You arrive at the private terminal at Harry Reid and are picked up plane side or just passed the lobby. I am not aware of any Jet service from the UK ; I believe it is just too far for that , but I can be wrong. Also, some Las Vegas casinos will refund your airfare if you fly commercial multiple times a year if you play at a certain level.
ME : On Twitter I noticed you showed us photos of the VIP Private Limousine Service. Do you have a favourite host driver you like to give a shoutout for ?
CHARLES: I actually don’t they have many drivers and every single one that has picked me up has been fantastic and I have never asked for a certain driver. But I will give a shout out to people that do take care of me on a regular basis. Hussain who works in the Bellagio VIP area is absolutely a gem of a man and a personal friend ; he was working room service on July 4th so we made sure to order some and ask for him especially so he could catch the fireworks with us from the suite.
Anne who works in the retail store which used to be by the Bellagio elevators , (but has since been closed down now ) she is at Park. Anne and my partner immediately clicked , and we are always greeted with a massive hug and keep in contact.
I also can’t forget to mention some bar staff, Richard at the Bellagio Center Bar, Juan in the High Limit Bar at Park MGM and Carlos at the Aria High Limit Bar. They have always looked after us with impeccable service and friendship. A shout out to the slot attendants at Bellagio also , they always remember us and come up to say hi.
ME : While in United States do you mix business with pleasure? Have you wine and dined a client while in Vegas ?
CHARLES: I have had held business events in Vegas, Boston & Atlantic City casinos. A lot of my clients will attend massive expos in Las Vegas , like ShopTalk & Black Hat , and what better way to catch up with multiple people and sign some new deals , than dining in the best city in the world while they are all in one place. We recently had private events at Prohibition Bar Mandalay Bay and Carbone at the ARIA.
ME : What kind of meals or restaurants have you been Comped ?
CHARLES : I have not paid for a meal at a MGM property in over 5 years and have ate at them all! I just charge absolutely every meal and drink I have to my room, also Spa & Salon treatments, Laundry and whatever else you can imagine can be charged to the room. This will then be fully comped at the end of the stay (Based on play of course which is never a problem). The only thing that can’t be comped off the bill are tips charged to the room & retail.
ME : Do Hosts offer greeting gifts in your room? And if so, what have they surprised you with?
CHARLES : Yes! My recent trip to see the formula 1 race in Las Vegas had a limited-edition Bellagio F1 box with champagne & chocolates waiting for me. The gifts vary from gift boxes of Bulgari or Chanel products to champagne & snacks. Last Christmas we were gifted a couple of watches after arrival as a present which was great.
Photo Credit: Charles
ME : Would you like to share what you do or rather keep that private?
CHARLES: 8 years ago I was on a construction site and I took a chance on a business idea that is doing well. That is all I will say as because I post on social media which evidently leads to disagreement, I have been told by my host people, who have called the hotel, trying to obtain information about me in the past. I can only imagine it is for negative purposes so I would rather not.
ME : When in Vegas do you and your partner indulge in the Night Life at Premium Clubs ? For example, enjoy the experiences at Wynn Nightlife (XS, Intrigue, Encore Beach Club) ? Does your wife/partner enjoy the Spa at any of the Vegas Resorts? If so, is that part of a Perk offered by your host ?
CHARLES: As a MASSIVE fight fan, in the past I have attended nightclubs for the fighter afterparties. It really is not my scene ; its far to busy ; I spent most of the evening telling people to not sit in my booths and leave mine and my parties drinks alone. Its way to hectic for me — haha.
The Spa is more our scene coming from the UK we are usually in Vegas for a week or more , so you need to take a day or two in the middle of the trip to relax, detox and get fresh again for the last part of the trip. The spa and any salon treatments we just charge to the room to be comped at the end.
ME : In 2023 F1 ( Formula One Grand Prix ) made its comeback debut since its first appearance in Las Vegas 41 years ago. Do you agree it was a success? What made this event so special? And will you be back next year ?
CHARLES: For me it was a massive success! I have been to Silverstone and Singapore GP’s in the past and Las Vegas blew both of those away by miles. I was at the front of the stand right by the start/finish line and the whole place was like a festival! Complimentary food & drink from Wolfgang Puck, DJ’s and immersive experiences like VR. I know the tone and trend on social media is that the locals hated it and it was a massive failure but I think that is more wishful thinking and fitting in rather than common knowledge. Time will tell if it was a success, I can imagine people reporting it a failure are more concerned with being first than accurate. I will 100% be there next year unless something major stops me being there I can’t wait.
Photo Credit: Charles
ME : Of course, everyone likes to know if you’ve won big in Vegas ? If you care to keep this quiet I understand.
CHARLES: I am a slot player first and yes I have won big. My single biggest win/hit is just over 22k but I have had nights of multiple large wins where I have taken 60 to 80k up to the safe after a session. Sometimes you can’t miss and other times you can’t win a thing and losses of the same kind of value happen.
When I first visited Vegas after my business success I used to play High Limit Blackjack at The Mirage where I could win or lose 20/30k over the course of the weekend. Going up in value of a wager is addictive and once you have tasted success of big wins the smaller ones don’t taste the same.
ME : Sometimes I find Social Media toxic due to those individuals on X ( aka Twitter) who are jealous or just plain mean. How do you deal with these kind of people?
For example: For me personally, I have found individuals have block me for no reason other than they must be jealous or envy of what I do. I have had three separate careers in my life and found that, unless you’re a celebrity, they don’t value your life experiences.
Actually, there are two individuals who follow you but block me — such strangeness lol. I am a freelance writer, author and longtime Executive Chef (who is retired from that trade now). My company “ Canadian Northwest Publishing “ have published two books now ; Canadian Recipes of the Great White North “ and a science fiction horror thriller, “ Black Angels”.
Question : Do you find people are jealous and envy what you have and they don’t have ?
CHARLES: Firstly, congratulations on your success.
ME : Thank you so much 😊
CHARLES: I think social media is mostly about people’s opinions , and disagreement comes with the package. I don’t think people are jealous of my lifestyle but I do believe they get jealous of the attention my trips bring. We have a saying here in the UK “Those that do, DO and those that don’t TEACH” It is the self titled experts of any topic place or locations that are the most toxic on social media and nine times out of ten they are the people that do none of the things they have declared to be an expert at.
ME : Is there anything else you would like to share with your viewers about becoming or having the lifestyle of a High Roller ?
CHARLES: The lifestyle is great and I do post all my wins and trips around the world @champchaz02 on X so follow me there ; I am just a guy in my 30’s living life and having fun , with it don’t take it to personally. I have experienced Las Vegas from the low end to the high end and Vegas is what you make of it , regardless of budget, but having a heavy pocket does help —haha. Thanks for having me I will be back in Vegas at the end of January.
ME : Thank you once again Charles for allowing me to interview you; so appreciated it ! I personally find your lifestyle quite interesting and satisfying. Am I envious? No. I just pretend what life would be like as a High Roller where money was never an issue. Experiencing Vegas as a High Roller would be amazing 🤩 with all those perks . It would be cool to follow your steps in one day of luxury. Mind you , don’t expect me dressing the part, due to the fact I can’t afford it lol.
It was indeed a pleasure to talk to you Charles.
Canyon Ranch Spa at The Venetian Las Vegas
In Conclusion:
Did you know accommodations offered to High Rollers aren’t even available to Hollywood Celebrities unless they too spent that kind of coin in Las Vegas? During the World Series of Poker it’s likely you’ll see Hollywood actors, Ben Affleck , Matt Damon and Spider-Man’s Tobey Maguire . Even though they spend a moderate amount of cash at the tables, it’s not even close to what a High Roller will spend in four days.
Who knew there were different levels of celebrities in Las Vegas ?
Only the High Rollers will receive a luxury Chairman Suite at Palazzo featuring 6,367-sq ft, its own private bar and pool, spa and sauna equipped with your very own Butler.
At Caesars Palace, High Rollers will ask for the 9,420-square-foot, three-bedroom Marcus Aurelius Villa full of grand amenities your friends will surely envy. As said on Caesars Palace website, it features “Over-the-top luxuries include an exotic fish tank, double-sided fireplace, grand piano, billiard room, media room with theater-style seating and massage chairs. Live the luxe life with your own private terrace, complete with spa tub and fire pit.” And yes ! The experienced trained Butler is included, providing service beyond your wildest dreams. Your Butler will make sure you’ll experience the best luxury even adventurous Tom Cruise would gasp ; at a cost of $45,000 per night ! So you see, if a High Roller receives this room as a perk, you can only imagine what they spent at the tables or slot machines.
There’s also secret High Limit Rooms only High Rollers are allowed to visit.
Another great perk High Rollers will receive is a helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon featuring a gourmet lunch and Champagne . Of course, a private SUV Limo will be waiting for them from their favourite Vegas Resort. The options of pure Vegas luxury literally has no end, as long as it’s legal. Can you imagine asking your host for a “Private Shopper” while you gamble, collecting your winnings ? If money wasn’t an obstacle, what kind of luxury is in your dreams ?
My kind of accommodation I’m partial to would be the 10,000-square-foot Marc Antony Villa at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas. Maybe in my next life …
Freelance writer and author and chef Bari Marcus Anthony
ABOUT ME : Strong, competitive and self-driven freelance writer passionate about life and work. My work concentrates on shorts to scifi. I’m interested in bringing my published book Black Angels to the next step; a movie created from my book. You can find me on WordPress and James Montana Scripts, showcasing hundreds of short stories adaptable for screenplays.
See video book release .
Thank you for considering me as your connection. Please check out my experiences:
Diversity of careers with collage certificates, diplomas and awards.
After graduating from VSS in 1975, I enrolled in a two year Applied Arts Program at Okanagan Collage in Kelowna, B.C. Went on to Cariboo College ( now known as Thompson Rivers University) in Kamloops, B.C., after two years became a Drafting Tech. Worked with Engineering Firms throughout Alberta and B.C. ( UMA Engineering ) by contract. Each product would range from architectural design, structural, municipal and residential urban projects , to working with the Calgary Olympics.
My Screenplays : BLACK ANGELS ,AGENT SKY,GAIA ,MISSING UP NORTH, THE JOURNEY, SOUL SAVIOR
Interests : Flying,Hiking, Gourmet Cooking, Italy, Vegas ( Of course lol ) Hawaii and Cancun
Come join me on wordpress :
Website Name : James Montana Scripts
Chef website: https://chefbari.com
Website Name: Canadian Northwest Publishing
Cooking INSTAGRAM or Science fiction INSTAGRAM
Vegas Blogs :
