Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Bell Limousine VIP Service


Bell Limousine VIP service is defiantly the way to go if you're looking for that private ride to and from your Resort hotel.  

Normally we use the typical shuttle transportation system, which is an OK means of transportation to and from your hotel. But, if you're looking for a little privacy, I highly suggest the #VIP SUV option.

Here's why :

Shorter wait time
Personal Driver Service
Privacy 
You don't have to go to everyone's else's resort before your finally dropped off. 
Personal service at your request 


There are several #VIP Transportation options you may choose from : 
Sedan Round Trip Option
Standard SUV Round Trip Option
The Highroller Package 
The Super Stretch Limo Option
The Stretch Navigator Option
AND The ROUND TRIP - *LIMO SHARE-A-RIDE Option ( $28 - $38 per person) 

Now here's the great TIP : 

Book in ADVANCE the LIMO SHARE A RIDE (Round Trip) Option.  A good month or two ahead is highly suggested.  We booked 2 months before our flight to Las Vegas. 

NOW - Chances are you won't be sharing your #VIP SUV with anyone except your better half.  The reason being, it's highly unlikely there are customers coming off the same flight as you, asking for the same ride. 

The round trip cost from McCarran International Airport to your Vegas Resort will only cost you $50-$60 at the most. 

PLUS - It's more often then NOT, it will just be YOU, your PARTNER and PERSONAL DRIVER ! 

ALSO - If you ask nicely, the driver will be happy to make a pit stop at a liquor store before you reach your resort. 



HERES WHAT YOU DO : 

Book with BELL LIMOUSINE one month before your flight. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to meet with driver. This means, it can take a good 30 minutes just to get off your flight and retrieve your luggage. 
Head out of the McCarran International Airport and look for the BELL BOOTH.  It will be a slight line-up but it goes fast ! 
At the Booth give the girl your reservation numbers. She will give you a couple of reservation cards to give to your driver. 
Meet over by the BELL Booth, where you meet another employee setting up rides for BELL Transportation.  Let them know you're #VIP. She'll quickly divert you over to your own personal Limo Driver. 
Let him know where your going and if you want to make a pit stop at Walgreens or liquor store. Now's the time to ask.  Most of the time they will accommodate your request.  If they do, leave a 20 percent tip on your final arrival spot. 


Our driver was Michael.  He was indeed pleasant and did accommodate our requests. 


NOW -  They say on-line (website) your connecting ride back (after your stay) will reply in an email.  We didn't see that happen and had to phone them to verify our ride back.  After our phone call, however, I immediately received an e-mail verifying exactly what I just said to the girl over the phone.  

IMPORTANT TIP :  Be sure to let them know WHERE you want to be picked up, as there are quite a few different locations to be picked up.  

Our PICK UP was at the #VIP Pickup along the side of Luxor, by the twin towers.  If you don't let them know, then you'll be confused of where they will be.  They also suggest, if you enjoyed the ride there with your driver, ask for his/her card.  This way you can let them know you would like the same driver (give name).  Let the driver also know, you plan on using him on the return trip home. 

We didn't do this, because we forgot about getting his card.  

So - come PICK UP time, we just assumed the next driver would pick us up at the same location we were dropped off.  Fortunately, we were right, and Jennifer was patiently waiting for us.  At first we weren't sure if she was the ride or not, because there are so many other drivers coming in and out.  Eventually we made eye-contact and both realized Jennifer was indeed our ride back to the McCarran International Airport. 

In hind sight, I guess I should have just walked over to the SUV and asked. Their licence plates also says BELL, which is another clue - lol. 


Both, Jennifer and Michael were great drivers and made our transfers from the airport to the hotel and return a seamless FUN process. 

I would highly recommend BELL LIMOUSINE to all my Vegas Lovers on Vegas Reviews.  It truly is a luxury ride for the same price you would spend on a taxi. So, it's well worth it! 

Join me and the rest of our Vegas Lovers on my Facebook Page Vegas Reviews and check me out on Twitter too @vegasreviewsvg 




#Limo #Limousine #BELL #VegasReviews #VegasLovers #Tips 


The Park, Las Vegas

 The Park Vegas

It wouldn't be complete if I didn't visit all the FUN places in Vegas.  This time I spent a lot of my day at The Park Las Vegas.  

 Bliss Dance
Bliss Dance

The Park is a nice walkway featuring local plants, flowers and cacti of Nevada, along with man-made waterfalls and artistic sculptures throughout.  Largest sculpture represents Bliss Dance, a 40-foot-tall sculpture of a dancing woman. 
Originally the Bliss Dance was located on the San Francisco shoreline at Treasure Island.  Apparently it wasn't doing so well and was refurbished, becoming the prefect candidate for the desert centerpiece at The Park Vegas.


In the background of The Park Vegas is the TMoblie Arena, which in itself is impressive! 

As of Tuesday, June 14th 2016, it appears NHL has made an agreement for a hockey team in Las Vegas, playing at TMoblie.  The 2017-18 season is considered to be the earliest they would begin.

Construction is everywhere. 

Quietly you can see more construction is on its way, with new plans for Monte Carlo and another hotel with the all new Park MGM in partnership with @sydellgroup expected to be built by 2018.  


Also, the new theater is in the process of being built ( as you can see by my photo above).

As for foodies, the restaurants are a nice architectural addition, providing a quick bite to eat. Such as  Bruxie, where we indulged in some tasty selections for lunch, such as the Original Fried Chicken and Waffle Sandwich (a seasoned fried chicken breast, Chili Honey, Cider Slaw and fresh Waffle for $9.25 ) 



The Beerhaus is a great way to experience something like a Beer Garden, featuring a fine selection of microbrew type of Beers (including domestic beers, if you like).  We went just at the right time.  Happy Hour started at 2:00 pm offering half price on their selected beer, including four quick bite options at $4.00 each.  Our server ( a young polish girl) was on-the-ball, ready to explain the choices, serving our fave beer selection.  Like any indoor Beer Garden, we had to get up to retrieve our food in the far corner of the restaurant.  Various games are available throughout the restaurant, like ping pong, for example. 



Overall, the restaurants add to a quick retreat from the Las Vegas sun. 

The Park is located in-between New York, New York, Las Vegas and Monte Carlo.  It promises to be an entertainment spot from artists to local musicians, showcasing their talent. 


READ more : The Park Vegas  



I enjoyed the artistic approach of The Park, including the local plants and flowers.  The restaurants are indeed a treat to enjoy.   I noticed a good presence of security patrols throughout The Park, which is always a nice safety  addition. 

 

Next time you visit Las Vegas, make a point to see The Park for yourself and as always, I hope to see YOU in Vegas - Vegas Lovers and newcomers alike. 



#ThePark #MGM #LasVegas #foodies #beerhaven #freepark #free #thingstodoinlasvegasforfree #VegasReviews 



All photos credit : Bari Demers 








Thursday, February 25, 2016

Vegas and The Mustang

Photo Credit : Slid found in Portland OR. by VLV (Vintage Las Vegas)


Good Morning Everyone!  Today's photo is from Sahara, Las Vegas, September 1967, for Throwback Thursday. 

Notice the baby blue Ford Mustang in the parking lot!  

Interesting, the Ford Mustang has been around for 51 years now, since the legendary muscle car first came off the assembly line in 1964.  It means the Mustang is not only a great car, but it also has loyal customers, who consider themselves as strong followers (fans) for the past 50 years.

Now, that's impressive! 

The fame of Las Vegas runs on the same loyalty, counting its success on   advertising campaigns, luring its loyal customers back year after year. Some guests will come back, not only once a year, but twice to even four times a year.

That would be us - Vegas Lovers! 

Like Ford, Las Vegas relies on clever slogans to help its guest make a decision to come to Vegas for a vacation, instead of Hawaii or Disneyland.  It means a strong advertising campaign is essential to grab the interest of potential tourists, worldwide.

It's a jungle out there! 


ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS 
  
Let's turn back the clock to 1956.  

Who remembers Mr. Lee Lacocca and his catchy slogan that captured American customers by storm?  

The marketing slogan was simple back then, it said,"56 for 56".   
Basically, "56 for 56" meant, you would only pay $56 per month for three years, with a 20 % down payment on a spanking brand new Ford in 1956. 

Pretty cool - right? 

I mean, now-a-days, a monthly payment of only $56 would be nothing short of a dream.  

Marketing paid off in 1956, but unfortunately from 1958 - 60's Ford gambled on the success of the 'Edson' (a family car) believing it would become the All American car for the average hard working family. 

No one bought it.

Meaning, the customer wasn't impressed with the Edson, making sales fail miserably.  The company lost $350 million dollars, so it had no choice but to scrap the Edson.  It quickly revamped its advertising campaigns, looking for another successful car.  All seemed lost until the rise of the Mustang from 1964 to 1968. 

You could say the Mustang was a galloping success, all the way to the bank. 

It was common to spot a mustang almost anywhere.  Just like that baby blue mustang you see in the photo, sitting in the parking lot at the Sahara, Las Vegas in 1967.

The Mustang was everyone's dream car.  

Then, in 1968, the iconic feature film, Bullitt, where rockstar Steve McQueen drove a brand new 1968 Mustang 390 GT during the heroic car chase through the suicide streets of San Francisco.  It quickly made the Mustang a legend! 

It was the year to get hold of a '68 Mustang GT fastback!  

Meanwhile, back in Vegas...


THE LEADING VEGAS ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN 

Back in Vegas, corporate resorts treated their loyal guests to free meals, rooms and entertainment on a regular basis.  Gambling was the staple of their success. 

But, even though gambling still plays a big part in Vegas, tourism has changed drastically over the years.  Never before would you see the whole family in Vegas.  

It was always considered an adult playground, of sorts.

Even the famous marketing slogan, "What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas" was geared towards adults.  

This slogan was created by advertising executive Mark E. Brown during his time as President and Partner for R&R Partners ad agency.  A very successful ad campaign for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.  

It was so successful, Las Vegas achieved a record-breaking 37.4 million visitors in 2004.

But, once again, things change rapidly in Vegas.  Advertising campaigns have changed, this time, through the use of social media. Obviously, advertising a leading campaign, with a catchy slogan, is a win win situation for everyone evolved, to say the least. 

I noticed Las Vegas resorts are playing around with different hashtags, seeing which one will capture the hearts of vacationers. 

Luring one to Las Vegas is truly a jungle out there.  

People are strapped for cash in our struggling economy and are searching for the best deal, to stretch their dollar as far as possible.

The best possible package including flight and hotel are on top of the list.  But, at the same time, they want to be treated special. VIP Class would certainly be a welcomed feature.

Just imagine if YOU can act like a Vegas Rockstar for a night or weekend, for a very reasonable price. 


Now, let's imagine you were responsible for the new marketing slogan for that Las Vegas Package.  

What catchy Las Vegas slogan would you pick ? 


I was thinking and came up with this possible example package, my pretend advertising campaign, of sorts : 

Are YOU tried of hearing about all those VIP's getting First Class Service? Don't you think YOU deserve to be treated the same?  
Well - Now YOU can!  
YOU have the opportunity to become an VIP Vegas Rock Star for 48 hrs with 4 of your friends.

FEATURING the VIP "Vegas RockStar 2424" OR "Vegas RockStar 24/24" 

For only $2424 you'll be treated to the luxury of a lifetime, all inclusive for the next 2 Days. That's right !  For just $2424 you will receive this awesome package: 

Luxury Limousine to your participating Vegas Resort, return.
Full use of the top Penthouse (choose one of these participating Vegas Resorts __________________) 
2 days of  Room Service ( Breakfasts for 4 guests)
1 Fine Dining meal for 4 guests
Private table at the all exclusive _______ Night Club for 4 guests.
The Spa for 4 guests.
Private Cabana poolside for 4 guests
On the hour, social guest photos on the participating Vegas Resort Facebook Page, Twitter and Instagram.
$40 each of FREE PLAY 
Take a test drive of the Limited Edition 50th year Mustang at the Las Vegas  __________ race track. 

Note - All taxes and gratuities are not included. 
This package is worth an incredible $5000 !  Get it today while space is still available !  Call _______________ your personal concierge now!  Limited time offer.


IN CONCLUSION 

What do you think ?  Would it fly ?  Could this be the next successful advertising campaign ?  Possibly a 24 hour Package Plan for 4 or even 2 guests.  The ideas are endless! 

In Vegas, to be that cool rich VIP person, you would have to be someone like Don Johnson, the rockstar of gamblers.  
https://artistwriterblog.wordpress.com/2014/08/29/who-is-don-johnson/

But maybe, just maybe, with the all new Vegas slogan, the VIP "Vegas RockStar 24/24" you could be the next RockStar VIP Guest. 

I hope you enjoyed my article today and as always, See YOU in Vegas! 



#ThrowbackThursday #GottaVegas #VegasLovers 



Tuesday, November 10, 2015

The Dunes Hotel - A Thursday Throwback



                                 Photo Credit : Bari Demers - The Dunes Hotel - 1986 

Happy Thursday Vegas Lovers!  Here's an awesome throwback - The Dunes Hotel.

Who remembers the Dunes Hotel ?   I didn't know it at the time, (when I took this picture) but it has a remarkable colourful historical past. 

The Dunes Hotel opened its doors on May 23, 1955 financed by Al Gottesman and the questionable Mafia controlled Teamsters Union, through the use of its Teamsters Pension Fund. 

Can you imagine Al Gottesman purchased the original property from a rancher for only $58,000?  

Like Vegas today, a grand opening was indeed the start of the Dunes. 
A huge fanfare opening, (referred to as the "Magic Carpet Review"), featuring Hollywood star Vera-Ellen, along with 60 decorated dancers, set the stage for future celebrations in Las Vegas.  

As the biggest resort of its time, famous celebrities performed and stayed at the Dune Hotel. Celebrities like Rita Hayworth and Dick Haymes, Dean Martin, Jayne Mansfield, Liberace, George Burns and of course, Frank Sinatra.   

The marketing slogan was "The Miracle in the Desert" featured a 35 ft tall fibreglass Arabic King known as a sultan, 18 hole golf course, 90 ft rooftop pool with an elite health spa.

Apparently, the business side of the Dunes was shady, due to the Chicago Mafia evolvement, famous for skimming.  But, back then, that was pretty much Vegas. Throughout its existence, the Dunes Hotel had serious financial problems, with even The Sands lending a hand.  Famous lawyer, Morris A. Shenker bought interest stake, but it was soon learned, he too had connections with labor leader Jimmy Hoffa and the Teamster funding in the late 1960's. 


Eventually Howard Hugh's made an offer to buy The Dune Hotel, but after his other investments, he bowed out. 


    Photo Credit :  Bari Demers 1986 

In 1983, it was purchased by Stuart and Clifford Perlman, founders of Caesars World, for $185 million. By November 17, 1992 the Dunes Hotel sold for the last time by Steve Wynn for only $75 million.  A bargain for Mr. Steve Wynn and quite a drop from the previous buy of  $185 million in 1983. 

Within a year, the Mirage Resorts, Inc, closed its doors and demolition of the 32 year old hotel began on October 27, 1993.  Another grand ceremony with fireworks and even cannon blasts from HMS Britannia of Treasure Island (T.I. Resort and Casino).  Unfortunately the colourful neon sign was destroyed. In hind·sight, it would have been nice if they kept that piece of history.  

In its place is the now gracious Bellagio, Las Vegas.

As a typical tourist I took this photo in 1986, never realizing at the time, it's colourful history.  At the time we stayed at The Maxim Hotel, Las Vegas.  If you notice by my photo below, you can see the prices for New York Steak and Prime Rib.  


                         Photo Credit: Bari Demers  - The Maxim Hotel and Casino 1986 


A low price of only $4.95 ! 

A chicken dish went for $3.95 and after 2:00 am, Steak and Eggs for a awesome price of only $2.99. Talk about great prices back then.  Not at all like today, where a buffet or single dinner will cost you between $15.99 - $41.99. 

All I can say to that, " Those were the days!" 

Today, in place of the Maxim Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas, is the Westin Las Vegas Hotel, Casino & Spa.

Share your great memories, your recent photos or fun times in Las Vegas with us too.  After all, we are all tourists, just like you! 

Be sure to join us Vegas Lovers on Facebook ( http://www.facebook.com/Vegasplayfun)  and on Twiiter @vegasreviewsvg 


See YOU in Vegas ! 


REFERENCE: 


#ThrowbackThursday  #Vegas #VegasReviews #Seeyouinvegas 

  

Why I enjoy MyVegas App



My Las Vegas article this week is all about, 'Why I enjoy MyVegas App'.  

So - What's so impressive about MyVegas ? 

MyVegas is an app by Play Studios, that allows you to collect loyalty points for FREE rewards.  I like to refer the loyalty points as 'Gold Coins'.  The more gold coins you collect, the hundreds of REAL REWARDS to choose from.   

MyVegas has two apps, 'MyVegas Blackjack' and 'MyVegas Slots'. 

Originally MGM properties teamed up with Play Studios, founded by CEO President Andrew Pascal (who use to work for Wynn Resorts) and Chief Operating Officer Paul Mathews.  Since then, Andrew's team and partners has grown substantially to an oasis of rewards. MGM is still a big partner, showcasing all their properties, but it doesn't stop there.

The partners are growing at a steady rate, sure to be of great value to us Vegas Lovers.

Sure, there are other Vegas apps, but I have yet to see one so well organized as MyVegas.  Play Studios has done an excellent job attracting tourists to Vegas by collecting some awesome rewards.


The Partners : 

All the MGM Properties (Mirage, Aria Resort, Vdara, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio Las Vegas, New York, New York, Las Vegas, MGM Resort, Excalibur, Luxor and Monte Carlo, Las Vegas). 

Including, Station Casinos, such as : Red Rock Resort, Green Valley Ranch Resort and Palace Station.

Circus Circus, Las Vegas Wolf Gang Pucks Restaurants, Las Vegas Mono-rail, Cirque du Soleil, Royal Caribbean International, Golden Strike (MGM) and so many more.  

I'm loving to see that Maverick Helicopters has just partnered up to. The partners list is growing and growing with awesome rewards, you can all get for FREE. 


Example of Rewards: 

Resort Buffets for Two or Buffets for One with breakfast, lunch or dinner.

An assortment of entertainment from Cirque du Soleil to Chris Angel, Believe, including the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas and the list goes on.

Free room options from 1- 3 nights

A fine selection of restaurants offering meals from appetizers to main courses.

Maverick Helicopters tours through MyVegas Blackjack. 

As a matter of fact MyVegas Blackjack, also showcases a bunch of new partners, such as :  Allegiant Airlines, The House of Blues, The Smith Center and Hexx Kitchen and Bar, Las Vegas.  

Seriously, the list goes on! 

It's a no-brainer to play for free and collect your rewards before you leave for Las Vegas.  

The only limitation in collecting your rewards? 

Each person is only allowed to use 3 rewards during their stay in Vegas.  So, my wife and I collect three each, giving a grand total of 6 rewards.  We use a good portion for buffets and entertainment, plus my wife likes to use one as a casino credit.  So, it's important you play separately and each person register at the Vegas Resort you plan to stay at.  

Once you book your flight and room to Vegas, that's the time to get your REWARDS.  Once you're settled in your Vegas Resort, head down to the MLife Players Club.  

Here you get confirmation of your rewards. 

Now, depending who you talk to, I have found that you can verify all the rewards at once, during your stay at the Vegas Resort. The reason I'm saying this, is because our first visit to MyLife Players Club counter at Aria Resort and Casino, the girl told us we were only able to cash one at a time.  The next day, the girl serving us, said that was NOT the case at all.  The second server was nice, professional and not at all like the first server. 

So, you see, like anything, it depends on the service you get. 

Seriously, all we want is to enjoy our stay and keep far away from the politics and any bad service.  In general, we DO receive excellent service from the countless professional staff, bartenders, maids, restaurant servers, chefs, front desk servers, outside greeters to chauffeurs.  


Talking about service

Actually, on my first day to Aria Resort and Casino, Las Vegas, I had a fine chat with the friendly bartender at the Lobby Bar, while I waited for my wife to spend her time at the penny slots.  It wasn't busy, (a nice summer day) and I was curious to try their in-stock signature beer, Cabaletta – ARIA’s own craft beer.    ( Check out the Taste of Aria too.)

The beer was delicious! 

The bartender served ( sorry, I forgot his name ) the Cabaletta in a tall frosty glass, prefect for the summer day.  The pilsner beer was refreshing and light.  

It wasn't long before I just had to have two! 

What made my experience more pleasing was the courtesy bartender, wondering how I enjoyed my drink and the small talk about where I'm from, including his experiences in Vegas.  He spent that extra time to make my stay enjoyable.  He didn't have to.  Most bartenders serve and go off doing something else.  Usually, bartenders I meet, quickly get your drink and they're gone.  Some have even snapped at me.  So, you see, I was impressed by his professionalism.  I felt comfortable and at home, talking about my beloved Seattle Seahawks or whatever.  It didn't matter the topic, he seemed interested.  

And that's the key. Making your guest feel at home.


Anyway, off topic a little.  The MyVegas App by Play Studios is sure a winner, and next time your in Vegas, enjoy these awesome free rewards.  

Of course, we all hope to see you in the casino, yelling," Winner!  Winner! Chicken Dinner! " The next time you win big in Vegas, let us know at Vegas Reviews. 



Thursday, October 8, 2015

The Elegance of the Bellagio, Las Vegas


                                  Photo Credit : Bari Demers - The Fountains of Bellagio

Driving up to the Bellagio, Las Vegas, it would be hard not to recognize the
Fountains of Bellagio.  I like to refer it to as the "Lake of Romance" for the countless couples mesmerized by the fountains spell.

It's also a FUN show for the whole family starting on schedule, as said by Bellagio website : 

Monday - Friday
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
show every 15 minutes

Saturdays, Sundays* and Holidays
12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
show every 15 minutes

*On Sundays Fountain show times begin at 11 a.m. and run every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the Fountains Brunch at Jasmine.

                         Photo Credit : Bari Demers - The Fountains of Bellagio 

Our Experience : 

Coming through the main entrance lobby, your eyes are immediately glued to the chandelier boasting a colorful boutique arrangement seemly dancing across the 18 foot ceiling.  It's a step into elegance, showcasing it's artistic glass sculpture called "Fiori di Como" sculptured by Dale Chihuly.


             Photo Credit : Bari Demers - The Fiori di Como at The Bellagio, Las Vegas

Your arrival is greeted by, what I like to call a  "Guest Services Specialist", who really do care about your stay.  I felt like I was getting that special VIP treatment.  The seamless check-in host gave us a FREE upgrade to a deluxe room on the 27th floor overlooking the glorious Fountains of Bellagio.  

Seriously. 

I really did feel like a "Hollywood Star" stepping into our room.  You know you made the right choice when everything you see takes your breathe away from the adore of luxury.
The next morning, we woke up well-rested in our lavish King-size bed made for any Queen or King.  

Breakfast was next on our list, so we decided  to try out Café Bellagio.  I love how you get to stroll through the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens in order to get to Café Bellagio; such a beautiful setting.  Watching the humming effect of what you could be referred to as a "fine-running-machine", the hostess to your server gave that immediate attention.  In little time at all, the long line of guests were looked after in minutes, seated with a fresh coffee to start your day.   

And the food - AWESOME! 

Great tasting portions ready to suite any hungry guest. And trust me - I love my food!  If it's good I'm impressed, but when the whole experience is simply wonderful, I'm ecstatic ! 

Seriously.

Service now-a-days is the hardest thing to find.  It's indeed a pleasure when your whole body relaxes from the fine-tuned friendly service.  And thank you so much for the hard working Chefs giving us the most delicious meals.

Thank you!  Thank you! 

Are you looking for the most relaxing vacation ever?  I highly recommend the Bellagio, Las Vegas.  It may be more pricey than other hotels on the strip, but the luxury is well well worth it! 


About Bari : 

I'm a screenwriter and freelance writer.  My wife and I have been going to Vegas since the 1980's and share my experiences with "Vegas Lovers" on my conservative Facebook Page : Vegas Reviews - where we share the FUN in Vegas.  Really, I'm just a tourist, like you!  Come join our growing group of Vegas Lovers.  YOU don't have to be an expert, anyone who wants to go to Vegas for the first time, can join us in the FUN throughout Vegas.  

Newbies to Vegas ? 

No problem.  Check out all our tips and suggestions to make your stay in Vegas affordable, enjoyable and not over-whelming. 


             
                                    Photo Credit : Bari Demers - The Vegas Strip 




Thursday, August 13, 2015

Vegas Dreams and Having Fun on a Budget

Vegas View with Highroller - Photo Credit: Tianndra Demers



How to make a million dollars in Vegas ? 

That's what I call the Vegas Dream.

I'm thinking the only way that will happen, is either, win a poker tournament or max out winnings with a slot machine.  It happens - for real. 

Hold on ! 

I hear there's another way to bring in hard-cold-cash.  

It's called market advertising on your website. I know, I know...the possibility of that ever happening is like winning the Power Ball Lottery, itself.

But wait... 

According to a young lad from Ireland, he has lucked out in generating a million in revenue from his travel website called OneStep4ward, in just three years of blogging.

I was amazed, to say the least, so, of course I had to ask him, " How did you do it?" 

He told me the same generic answer his website already says," @vegasreviewsvg quality content mate - never stop producing it, eventually it'll take off :)"

Well, that's good advise, right ?  Sounds promising.  But, how do you make a million?  

Luxor Las Vegas - Photo Credit: Tianndra Demers 


With any blog you have to have keen interest in the subject, experience it, be honest, and forward useful information to your million of viewers.

Wait...did you say a million viewers?  

Ok, so my little blog, Vegas Reviews has maybe 10,000 unique viewers per month and, I have never received any funds from Ad Clicks. 

So, would you say, my Vegas Reviews Blog gives quality content ? 

I believe it does.  

Let's see: Vegas has always been my dream vacation spot, "Home-away-from-home" for the past 35 years.  I have lost count throughout the years, but I average 2-3 times a year vacationing in Vegas. 

Experience - check. 

How about quality content? 

I think so.  

Let's see : I share honest quality information from a tourists point-of-view (POV).  As a real tourist, I share with you my mishaps, mistakes, the real cost of traveling to Vegas, the good resorts to check in to, great eateries for foodies (like myself) best entertainment, fun rides, events, things to avoid, gambling hazards and awesome tours. 

Did I miss anything? 

I'm your average joe, but call me Bari, who's considered a Vegas Lover. 

So, have I covered everything? 

MGM Grand, Las Vegas  Photo Credit: Tianndra Demers


Oh wait.  


Everyone that has gone to Vegas figures they are an expert of some sort or another.  But not everyone has quality information or are completely truthful.  In fact, they are trying to sell you something.  Sure, Vegas can be broken down to five different EXPERT categories, such as: 


  1. Dining or Foodie 
  2. Entertainment 
  3. Accommodations
  4. Clubs (honestly, I'm not good in this area - the Club scene. I still can't understand how someone is willing to pay VIP Bottle service, when it starts at $1500 a pop - yikes!)  I hear it's great for bachelors or bachelorettes parties. 
  5. And Tour experts - there's a lot of them! 

White Castle - Las Vegas Strip  Photo Credit: Tianndra Demers


My Vegas Blog is everything the average tourist wants to hear. 

We all want to enjoy our holidays without going home broke. I concentrate on the cost and FUN throughout Vegas as a tourist, with a budget, like yourself.  

Like you, I count my pennies and keep close to a strict budget.  Those little extras can add up, like the Resort Fees and add-on taxes.  Trust me when I say, your room only costing $35, is just the beginning.  Your total of the day is more likely to be $80 - $200 per night, not including flight, meals, car rental, taxi or buses, tours and entertainment. 

Vegas Strip Photo Credit : Tianndra Demers


But wait! 

The more you SPEND at the casino, the more comps (complimentary bonuses) you receive. Well, actually you spent more at the casino to get that comp, so really, you have spent a lot more than expected.  

Of course, you do have the option of playing MYVEGAS games, and with so many loyalty points you get FREE rooms, buffets, dinners, shows and gambling credits.  This option is free to play, and as long as you don't buy coins, it's a sweet bonus to your stay in Vegas.  So, yes, you can get 6 FREE COMPS per couple, per stay.

As far as winning millions or marketing opportunities with your blog, it's like cashing in on a lottery.  

Will it happen?  

No, but it sure would be nice.  I'll let you know when that happens.  Imagine blogging, what you love to do and making a living doing so. 

Nice - right ? 




Ok.  So I'll stop dreaming and continue on giving my viewers the best knowledge of having FUN in Vegas on a budget.  Clicking on my google ads and buying something will help, but in reality, it's a far stretch to the truth.  Donations is another way to help out in my efforts, and I truly appreciate your kindness, if you do so. 

Generally speaking though, I wouldn't be spending all my time and effort, if I didn't enjoy it. 

Seriously, I really LOVE VEGAS! 

In the end, that's what counts, and I hope you can come along for the journey with my journals, blogs and photos of FUN IN VEGAS.

See You in Vegas! 

By Bari Demers - screenwriter, Vegas Lover and blogger 

Flamingo Las Vegas - Photo Credit : Tianndra Demers