Think You Know Grand Opening at Resorts World, Las Vegas? Think Again

 

Good Morning Vegas Lovers ! The soft Grand Opening at Resorts World, Las Vegas was amazing experience.  Indeed was a showstopper, over-the-top grandeur luxury throughout.  

Mr and Mrs Ruby of “Travel Ruby” on YouTube we’re welcome guests for this flamboyant event on the Las Vegas Strip, kiddy corner to The Wynn and Encore, Las Vegas.

Starting out, Mr and Mrs Ruby arrived by Presidential Limousine to the front lobby of the Conrad Tower portion of Resorts World. The other entrance is the Hilton.  The lobby showcased elegance with that new hotel fresh smell.  Everywhere they went, you could tell Resorts World, Las Vegas sparred no expense.  I believe the photos say it all. 

Each restaurant was offering free drinks and appetizers to each guest, with champagne stations throughout. As a matter of fact, in the gigantic pool courtyard, Mrs Ruby had the opportunity to ring-the-bell for free champagne 🍾. 

On display are a brigade of luxury Rolls-Royce, such as the white ‘Phantom’ with pink interior and the sharp red ‘Cullinan’. Everything on display screamed luxury, at its best. 

Once again, elegance was on display with a selection of inviting, high end lounges, featuring signature cocktails for any drink connoisseur. 

Into the courtyard featured various pools, including members-only affinity pool cascading over the edge precariously the warning “ Do Not Sit on the Edge of the Pool” . Strange enough, Resorts World had another ‘members only’ escort area of the pool courtyard. Huh 🤔 

At any rate, the celebrities were sprinkled throughout the venue with stars, such as Paris Hilton dancing around as a DJ. Don’t worry, you could pick out the VIP’s with their brigade of body guards - lol.  Not only that, but there would be a crowd of people around them taking pictures and videos with their IPhones - lol. 

As well, Mr and Mrs Ruby bumped into well known Youtuber Bob Dingo. He too was live streaming - you can see it here : 

On the huge screens mirrored on each Resorts World Towers, you could see Paris Hilton and family, plus an intro with Kate Perry. 

The finale was without-a-doubt the in-house fireworks. Another grand display! 

Thank you Mrs Ruby and her husband for live streaming the Grand Opening Event of Resorts World, Las Vegas. Please take a minute to like and subscribe to their YouTube Channel— 

Checkout Mrs Ruby’s Review of Resorts World, Las Vegas in full detail - you don’t want to miss this ! 

Be sure to keep checking out her YouTube Channel, because there’s a lot more to come. They’re staying three days at Resorts World at three different rooms - so keep tuned for more fun! 

It’s always a fun experience in Vegas - it’s motto is “ Go Big or Go Home”. Each and every Vegas Resorts wants to undo the previous one - lol. 

I hope you enjoy the photos and my write up of the event — Of course, I will see YOU in Vegas ! 

Join us on Twitter and Facebook too ! 

#ResortsWorldLasVegas #GrandOpeningVegasStyle #Vegas #TravelRuby #MrsRuby  #ParisHilton #BobDingo #VegasReviews #VegasLovers 

Crossing Paths in Las Vegas - Now and Then

 

I had great fun listening to the new episode from “ On the Corner of Main Street” featuring Steve Hill CEO and President of the Las Vegas Visitors & Convention Authority. 

Listen for yourself.

It always amazes me when others path seem to cross with yours. In 1987, we were visiting Vegas for our second visit. In those days, when Canadians fly, it  took three different flights to reach Las Vegas. 

It was common for us to travel from Alberta/BC to Montana, changing flights, heading to the main hub (which was Salt Lake City, back then). Our final destination was Viva Las Vegas!  The overall trip took 8 hours. Today, it’s a nonstop flight from Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton to Vegas in just 2 1/2 hours. 

In 1988, we would stay at Maxim Hotel ( The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa today) or ( in 1989) Aladdin, Las Vegas ( replaced by Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas today).

We often explored, strolling along the Vegas Strip. Back then, it was common to see vacant desert properties. If only we had the money to purchase just one lot ! We would be rich today - lol. 

Walking along the desert Vegas Strip, The Mirage resort stood out, towering everything else. Its structure showcased a Polynesian-themed casino resort visioned by Steve Wynn. Indeed, his vision would forever change Vegas, as we see it today. I remember the construction workers building the artificial volcano, you see today. 

So, when Steve Hill, CEO and President of the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (said in your podcast) he came to Vegas with his new concrete business at age 28 years old, it’s astonishingly to learn he was the subcontractor, pouring concrete for The Mirage, in which, we were watching across the street. I realize it’s a far stretch to envision the thought each of our lives crossing paths, but I have to believe it’s a possibility.  Anything is possible in Vegas 😉🥳🥳🥳 My wife and I were amazed at The Mirage. We knew big things were going to happen in Las Vegas.  It was the first mega resort on the strip. 

At the time, Caesar Palace was thee place to stay, because of how far advanced they were. Back then, we had a steak sandwich for $20, which was a lot of money to us, but we just had to be part of Caesar Palace, even though we couldn’t afford to stay there. I mean, after all, we were just 21 year old kids back then. 

In the podcast, I was surprised to learn, it costs $60 million to run the Las Vegas Convention Centre. That’s indeed a lot of money. It’s also intriguing how Las Vegas Convention and Visitor Authority use the taxes to market Las Vegas and drive the destination home across the world. It obviously works, because I can attribute to the Canadian frenzy market. ; we are indeed passionate about Las Vegas. So much so, there’s a ton of groups or FB Pages (like ours) associated with having FUN in Las Vegas, be it downtown or on the strip. 

Another thing that star-struck me with awe, was the fact, the larger entertainers will book 20 years ahead to the actual event — double whoa ! 

In Conclusion: 

We are without-a-doubt energized when it comes to the FUN in Las Vegas.  It proves Steve Hill, CEO and President of the Las Vegas Visitors & Convention Authority has indeed done its job of promoting Las Vegas.

We are so passionate to being part of the excitement of Vegas, we 

love promoting Vegas, when we can. Sharing our experiences with others, means we are all Vegas Lovers . That’s how passionate we  love Vegas. 

We all want to be part of the excitement Vegas has to offer.  

I must say Johnathan, there are certainly perks being CEO 😉 

Seeing the Allegiant Stadium first is indeed a plus.  🥳🥳🥳 ;  I am so excited to see the Raiders will be playing at the Allegiant Stadium. I so love NFL ( psst : don’t tell my Canadian colleagues 😉 I love NFL over CFL ). 

Man-oh-man ! I was awe inspired when I heard that Las Vegas had three of the largest three convention centres in Las Vegas, with six million square feet of convention space, being the largest meeting space in United States — whoa ! Let’s us not forget 20,000 sq ft at the Plaza 😉 too .

On top of that, the Boring Company by developer, Elon Musk, was indeed a cutting edge idea that other cities wish they got onboard first. Of course Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority saw the potential first. 

Did you know Elon Musk’s mom lives in Saskatchewan, Canada ? 

The Tunnel and the LVCC Loop ( located at the Las Vegas Convention Center) is the first commercially operating Loop system. What’s a Loop ? Apparently, it’s “an all-electric, zero-emissions, underground public transportation system in which passengers are transported directly to their final destination with no stops along the way.”, according to the Boring Company. 

It’s indeed Incredible! Only ten minutes from McCareen International Airport to Downtown Las Vegas using the underground transportation #DTLV — whoa ! 

Vegas is always changing. In summary, good things are happening, with more tourists visiting every year. Now that the COVID epidemic is behind us, we look forward to enjoying Las Vegas once more.

——————————————————————————————

My question for us Vegas Lovers today, “ Have you crossed paths with someone in Vegas ?” 

It’s clear — Las Vegas is leading the way. I believe it’s ahead with everyone else following. That’s good for Vegas. Join us Vegas Lovers on our Facebook Page and our Twitter account 

Viva Las Vegas !

By Bari Demers — Canadian Las Vegas Stream — aka Vegas Lovers 

#PlazaHotelandCasino #OnlyVegas #LasVegas #VegasLovers

#Podcast #VegasPodcast #Vegas #VegasReviews #VivaLasVegas #DTLV #CanadiansinLasVegas 

Las Vegas Jackpots for April 2021

 

Photo Credit : The Emerald Island, Las Vegas 

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner Vegas Lovers !  — this April 2021 has been one of the biggest months in casino jackpots across Las Vegas 

Let’s count them — All in APRIL 2021 : 

1. $10.4 million at South Point, Las Vegas with the payout from Megabucks
2. $2.9 million at The Venetian, Las Vegas 
3. $2.1 million at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas ; payout with Monopoly Millionaire. 
4. Las Vegas local wins $238K jackpot at Palace Station playing Wheel of Fortune 
5. $11,938.33 at The Emerald Island, Las Vegas - a golden win for a golden guest! Judy won $11,938.33.  
6. $10,595.45 win at Fremont Casino 💎 💎 💎

But wait ! There’s more !

Red Rock Casino guests won $203,000 playing progressive poker

Then San Manuel Casino Resort is also calling out jackpot hits too!  Such as,” One lucky Classic Club Serrano Member hit a jackpot progressive for a win of $726,381.49 🤑🎉 She won on @ScientificGames The Hobbit from a $6 bet. Denom: .01c #AllThrill #Jackpot #TheHobbit “ 

Then there’s , “ ...grand payout of $86,934.74 on @aristocratslots Lucky Tiger.” 

Once again at the San Manuel Casino Resort. 

So why did I mention the San Manuel Casino Resort ? 

They just bought the Palms Casino, Las Vegas — Sold to San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

Read more : 

Sounds crazy, doesn’t it ? Is it me or is it, every April you hear of Jackpot Winnings ? Is it coincidence ? Incredibly, April 2021 has hit a record in the amount of wins in Las Vegas. 

Whatever the case, some happy Vegas Lovers are heading home as Las Vegas Winners ! 

In two days , the month of May 202@ will be here, and I foresee a frenzy of Vegas Lovers heading to Vegas— the question is - will we see YOU ? 

See YOU in Vegas — Vegas is open for business Vegas Lovers ! 

Cheers ! 

Vegas Reviews 

#Jackpot #casinojackpots #VegasLovers #Vegas #LasVegas #VegasReviews #VegasNews #VegasTourism #VegasBaby 

Let’s Meet Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel

 

Photo Credit : Johnathan Jossel 

Good Afternoon Vegas Lovers ! 

I had the opportunity to talk to Plaza CEO Jonathan Jossel and listen to their Podcast called : The Corner of Mainstreet 

The photos you see are directly from Johnathan, himself. You would think a CEO’s job is an easy one, but that truly isn’t the case at all. As a matter-of-fact, his job can be stressful due to the situations.  You can bet, closing down a Hotel due to the COVID pandemic and starting up is extremely challenging. 

But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me introduce you to C.E.O. of the Plaza Hotel and Casino, Johnathan Jossel. 

What’s interesting, is how he came out here in the first place. 

He officially moved from the UK to Vegas on July 2007, however that wasn’t the first visit. At age 20 years old, he came out in 2005. 

Johnathan was doing his thesis with the University of Birmingham, on the gambling industry in the UK. At the time they were thinking about the idea of what would happen if they brought Vegas-Style casinos to London. Would it be economically feasible? 

One day, through family friends he went to a gentleman’s house for lunch. He started talking about his thesis, and to his amazement, he learn this gentleman just purchased six hotels in downtown Las Vegas. Johnathan was thrown back, simply because you don’t normally meet someone like this everyday. This gentleman wondered if Johnathan would be interested in a work experience ? Johnathan was eager and eventually his new friend told him to go to Las Vegas and we’ll set you up with something. In 2005 he came out but in five weeks, he realized it wasn’t a place for a twenty year old. 

It wasn’t until 2007, did Johnathan realize the potential of downtown Las Vegas. After meeting new owners, this time he stayed -  and the rest is history— you can hear the whole story on their podcast HERE/PODCAST

Coming the youngest C.E.O. in 2014, Johnathan has had a lot of twists , such as the financial crisis in 2008. But his persistence made it work. Then came COVID — a whole new crisis. Listen to how he managed it  — here Jonathan talks about the 2011 shutdown in which the property underwent a major upgrade. 

And he tells tales about two floods that hit the Plaza. 

With that being said, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. The Plaza prevailed and is ready to welcome their guests back to downtown Las Vegas.  The Plaza is ready to re-open on Thursday, June 4th. Jonathan, Lisa and Gary share all the details about what to expect when you visit. Listen HERE

This is indeed exciting! It’s kind of like a new beginning or awakening— sort-of-speak. 

WE Vegas Lovers are ready —

Photo Credit : Johnathan Jossel 

Downtown Las Vegas has changed for the better with each hotel, including the Plaza, upgrading their rooms, the pool , casino, restaurants and rethinking how downtown Las Vegas should re-market to impress visitors and patrons ( that us Vegas Lovers) to enjoy the vibe of downtown Las Vegas.  In the past, tourists would head downtown to see Fremont Street and then head back to the strip. 

As you know, we Vegas Lovers look at these qualities in our stay : 

1. Are the casinos fun and entertaining with better chances of winning? The odds are important to us all.
2. Entering the Guest Lobby, we want to be pampered, treated like V.I.P.’s - in other words, the hotel in question needs to leave an impression, so we come back, and we’re so impressed, we tell our friends and family. 
3. We expect our rooms to give us that “ WOW” factor, making us feeling comfortable and, of course, clean.
4. The restaurants should offer the best of the best food with reasonable prices. So much so, the foodie groups would be booking their next trip to the hotel in question . 
5. Most importantly too, is breakfast. It’s the start of the day and good service with a great breakfast points to a better day in Vegas. If we feel good, we tend to spend more. 
6. Most of us are hardworking throughout the year, so when we vacation in Las Vegas, we look forward to being pampered to the best the hotel’s ability. We’re not there to expect freebies ; we just want to feel important while we are there. 
7. It’s always nice when the staff makes you feel good and they make you think like you’re part of a FUN experience, be it a party in the lounge or out at the pool. Did you know the Plaza showcases fireworks 💥 ? The FUN experience goes a long way. Others tend to realize they’re missing out and makes plans to join in on the fun. 
8. Are the drinks cheap enough or while gambling, is the service staff coming by often, to serve you drinks, while you spend big in the casino. 
9. We Vegas Lovers always enjoy great entertainment and cool events. Fremont Street is sure to impress, but how about the hotel ?  Any event, large or small, where you leave with something in return, is always a win-win situation. 

The above are examples that make or break a hotel/ resort.  What examples can you add that make you feel special in the hotel/resort you choose ?

Now, since Johnathan Jossel became C.E.O. of the Plaza, he’s done a lot of improvements, such as upgrading rooms and the pool. His journey has been a hard one but he’s committed to making your stay one that you will always remember— in a good way ! 

I would like to thank Johnathan for taking the time to speak to me and to share with us the Plaza. 

Come on down to downtown Las Vegas and book your next stay at the Plaza - be sure to tell Johnathan, I sent you 😉🥳🥳🥳

https://www.plazahotelcasino.com/50-years-of-fun/

Don’t forget the 50 Years of Fun Hotel Package

Book your stay and receive:

• $50 Food and Beverage Credit*
• $50 Free Slot Play**
• $75 Bingo Match Play ***
• 50 years of Plaza Memorabilia
• Late Check-Out
• Early Check-In
• Free Parking

Have a great week Vegas Lovers ! I hope you enjoyed my article; as always, I will see YOU in Vegas ! 

Cheers ! 

Vegas Reviews 

The Dreadful Day You Have to Leave Vegas

Hey Vegas Lovers !

It’s Tuesday and already the middle of February 2020.  Today I’m thinking, dreaming and planning our next adventure in Las Vegas.  As a Vegas #writer I thought to write a couple of topics today, that I’m sure everyone of our Vegas Lovers group have experienced in one way or another.

Let’s get started :

Topic One :  The Day You Have to Leave Vegas 

Your last day in Vegas before heading home is indeed a sad day, in fact you may even say it sucks big time - lol. I truly hate our last day in Vegas, simply because you know it’s not long before you have to head to the McCareen International Airport,  checking in for another gruelling trip home.  In today’s world we must arrive two hours before your flight, hanging around...completely bored.  Most of us try our last try at the airports slot machines, just in case. As of matter of fact, you would be surprised how many visitors win at the McCareen Airport.  It may not be much, but sometimes a winner hits the mother-load.  It’s the last glimmer of hope before the inevitable reality of heading home.

There’s a wide range of tourists, from the hungover frat-boys/girls to the middle-aged crowd who forgot their drinking limits, paying for their misjudgment. Then there’s the ones who came to Vegas thinking they were heading home with buckets of money ; instead leaving penniless and quite upset with the knowledge the Vegas odds are always in the house’s favour.  Others are completely worn out due to the misbelieve they can go sleepless during their three day stay.

On top of these stereotypes, there’s the HighRoller, like my friend, who either boasts of their winnings or for some unknown ( well..we know) they’re not saying a word - lol. Experienced gamblers have their ups and downs, while Vegas weeds out the wanna-a-bees - I’m sure you’ve heard the Spice girl lyrics :

“Wannabe”
Spice Girls
Ha ha ha ha ha
Yo, I'll tell you what I want, what I really, really want
So tell me what you want, what you really, really want
I'll tell you what I want, what I really, really want
So tell me what you want, what you really, really want
I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha) I wanna, (ha)
I wanna really, really, really wanna zigazig ah.”

Yup ! That’s the one - lol.

Unfortunately, if you’re arrogant or too sure of yourself playing poker, Vegas will throw you a learning curve, wishing you listened to your buddies.  ‘Professional Poker Players’ eagerly wait to pounce on the unsuspecting, like sharks in a murky ocean wave.

Then there’s us, the more experienced Vegas Lovers who played Vegas within their limits,  but are just plain sad our vaca ( vacation ) is finished this time around.

For me, I’m already planning for my next trip back to Vegas, jotting down the restaurants I won’t come back to and those I loved, including pubs, the awesome entertainment and tours Im sure to try again. However, it’s always a heavy-hearted day leaving Vegas. Only one time, I was ready for home.  We had such a great deal, we stayed for seven days. After seven days, we ran out of money and became tired of the eating-out routine.  All our winnings were completed. So, our eighth day felt just about right.

We find, any day shorter then four days, it’s too short of a stay in Vegas Wonderland.  As far as the amount of times in Vegas, I believe we have averaged hundreds of times in Vegas since 1980’s. I’m sure it would be more if we weren’t so far away.  Each time we go to Vegas it has averaged $3500 -$4500 per vaca. I know it’s doesn’t sound like much to our rich  friends, who spend on the average of $25,000 during their stay. Just consider us Vaca-Poor-Folk - lol.

I know a few American friends who spend just one night in Vegas - Go Figure ?!

That’s not enough time to do anything in Vegas. On that note, Vegas can become overwhelming to the newcomers, not realizing how busy Vegas really is. There’s no way you can experience everything in one holiday event. Nope. Vegas takes “little-bite morsels” of FUN times, along with seeing the north or south side of the Vegas Strip, not to mention the off-the-Strip experience.

That’s Vegas !

INTERMISSION TIME - get something to eat, have a coffee and we’ll see you back for Topic Two.

Topic Two - Difference in Vegas Lover Groups 

My next topic surrounds the difference in Vegas Lovers . There are the nice  YOUTUBERS and the YOUTUBERS who are just looking for your money, feeding you their tested experience in Vegas.

I enjoy the nice VEGAS YOUTUBERS :

This group of Vegas Lovers are the free-style friendly ones who don’t care of your age or group. They are on top of their YouTube feed, making sure they respond to your enquires or likes and are deeply appreciative of those that follow them.

Then there’s the Not-so-Nice YOUTUBERS :

This group of YOUTUBERS don’t care if you mention them and only respond to their posts if they want to, or you’re in their age group. They are out for your money, because they’re too lazy to find a real job. These type feed off you for hand-outs, expecting if you want your questions or posts answered, you must join their “Patron” gifting program. It’s only then they’ll even recognize their fans. Personally they are annoying and pretty much arrogant.

So, to recap. IF you are a YOUTUBER there’s Youtube etiquette that you should follow, no matter how many followers you get. Of course, it’s overwhelming when you hit 150,000 followers. However, each and every follower requires your individual attention.  That’s your job as a YOUTUBER.

Today, I like to introduce to my Vegas Followers a nice YOUTUBER - please meet Michelle and Dave of : We Work to Visit Vegas

The two are fun, free-style hosts of Las Vegas who showcase their daily vaca days in a Vegas. The ups and downs, the minute-to-minute ( with intermission editing) of their daily experiences in Las Vegas. I enjoy the fact, they’re down-to-earth couple who are indeed Vegas Lovers, like ourselves. They have even organized 2 Vegas Summits ( a Vegas Summit is where WE [Vegas Lovers] meet for drinks socially at a specific safe spot in Vegas, opened to the rest of the public ). Their last meeting was at the  beerhaus las vegas in-between New York, New York, Las Vegas and The Park, MGM.  Just a FUN get together for everyone to share their fun times in Vegas.

See their YouTube site here - as of January 2020 

Here’s them talking about planning for their next Vegas Summit III  in around Sept 13, 2020 (Sunday)  :


IF you’re interested, we too are planning to go to this event. Perfect time to meet the writers of Vegas, the Vegas Lovers and the hosts of the Vegas Lovers Youtuber Group.

If you can, join us - it’s sure to be a FUN evening.

I’ll keep you posted, simply be the times may or may not change.  It may work for you, it may not.

Don’t forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to “We Work To Visit Vegas” - they are remarkable genuine friendly folks - hosts Dave and Michelle:


In Conclusion: 

As most of our Vegas Lovers know, I’m a writer and screenwriter and not so much a YouTube developer.  I rather write of my experiences and it’s my belief some of you may actually read about it. It’s a fast-pace life out there, so it’s always good to bury yourself in a good book sometimes.

I know it’s old school, but it’s good to put down your electronics to keep your sanity. Don’t forget to read my posts on my Vegas Websites too. Let me know if there’s anything you like me to write about in Vegas.

I hope your week is going well ! Congratulations! If you read my whole blog post.

As always -  I will see YOU in Vegas and don’t forget to “Put-on-your-Vegas-Face”

Cheers 🍻

Vegas Reviews ( Aka Vegas Lovers Group )

#VegasBlog #FebBlog #Blog #Vblog #writer #VegasLoversGroup #VegasReviews #VegasFun #Youtubers #VegasYoutubers #SadDayLeavingVegas #Joinus #OfficialFaceBookVegasLoversGroup #VegasTopics #VegasPhotos #writerslife #screenwriter

The Park Las Vegas - info for Vegas Lovers

#AutumnEquinox  September 23 2019 

Happy First Day of Fall Vegas Lovers ! 

Vegas Reviews - The Park, Las Vegas

My photo today is a close-up of the many cacti at The Park,Las Vegas , as said by MGM International, “ Explore The Park, an immersive outdoor dining and entertainment district...” And I say,” ..with beautiful floral, cool waterfall and just a wonderful place to enjoy the architectural creativity along with a desert garden backdrop.  It’s a great place to relax, enjoy the various food and drink options by the adjoining restaurants and take a breather from the hustle and bustle...” 

The Park outdoor and entertainment district was officially opened on April 4 2016.  As stated by Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, said, "Today's consumer wants to sample, to experience, to discover – it's no longer about visiting one resort and staying there. With this in mind, we've created a neighbourhood environment that invites our guests to explore many of our resorts on the Strip's west side, collecting experiences along the way, with The Park serving as a central gathering space for people to relax, dine and be entertained."  

Main Features of The Park 

THE BLISS : Without a doubt it’s hard not to notice “The Bliss” a 40-foot-tall sculpture designed by artist Marco Cochrane.  In the evening it lights up with a blissful array of colours. 

T-MOBILE ARENA:  Home of the Vegas Golden Knights hockey team of Las Vegas, plus featured events with performers and even a backstage tour.  It’s debut was on April 6, 2016.  The quick fact page showcases an architectural wonder. See more...

RESTAURANTS: 

The restaurants and pubs are pretty amazing, featuring :

1. Beerhaus 
2. Bruxie 
3. California Pizza Kitchen 
4. Sake Rok
5. Shake Shack 
6. Hello Kitty Cafe
7. Eataly

PARK THEATRE :  

A 5200 seat entertainment centre featuring artists, such as Lady Gaga, Cher and Aerosmith. 

Top-of-the-line theatre featuring: 

• 140 feet wide stage; one of the widest stages in the world

• 240 feet wide projection surface with projection mapping technology

• Nine HD and 4K Projectors

• 7 Bars and Terraces with views of the Las Vegas Strip and The Park

• 3 Levels: Orchestra, High Orchestra, and Balcony

• Premium Seating available with bottle service

It is without-a-doubt an architectural achievement by the MARNELL COMPANIES, team of architects, consultants, designers, engineers and sub-contractors, who have a long line of achievements since 1974. Their portfolio is stunning, with projects such as : 

• Eataly LV is an upscale Italian food market finished in November 2018
• The Park MGM Resort and Casino, formally Monte Carlo ( finished in December 2018)
• The Park Theatre which had a time frame of December 2016
• The M Resort in Henderson, NV, which is the far south point, if you were to continue down the southern Vegas Strip. Completed in March 2009, it features a  “92,000 sq. ft. of casino area, 390 rooms, nine restaurants, five bars, a 23,000 sq. ft. full service salon and spa, 60,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, and a stunning 100,000 square foot entertainment piazza and pool area.” , according to Marnell Companies website. 
• It also designed The Aria Resort & Casino Convention Center Expansion

There are so many projects, it’s amazing. Check out their website for more...

OF COURSE...

THE PARK, LAS VEGAS 

Previously Monte Carlo and Casino, Las Vegas, MGM International transformed the older Resort into a brand new refreshing Resort called The Park, Las Vegas. This amazing expansion showcases, the Park Theatre and a new NoMad roof-top pool, total rebuild of the Park MGM Pool, “...expanded meeting rooms and remodel of the casino floor, restaurants, bars, lobby and public spaces.  The exterior of the guestroom tower was also remodeled with new exterior elements and signage. “ pointed out by Marnell Companies. In fact, the old Monte Carlo is totally rebranded ! Another stunning architectural feat for sure. 

The whole transformation is more of a community entertainment centre, full of activities to do for your next vacation in Las Vegas. 

I hope you enjoyed my latest Vegas article and always, I will see YOU in Vegas ! 

Vegas Reviews - an informal group of Vegas Lovers who undoubtedly love to vacation in Las Vegas several times of the year.  Come join in on the fun on our FB Page and check us out on Twitter too. 

Have a wonderful Fall - Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas is just around the corner.

Cheers Bari ! 

DID YOU KNOW - Vegas Interesting Facts

Good Afternoon Vegas Lovers !  My new article today is “Did You Know - Las Vegas has some pretty incredible facts. Let’s see if you know of any below.

DID YOU KNOW : 

In 1820’s the Conquering Spaniards so happened to cross Las Vegas, on their way through to California.  Back then it was a lush green oasis flourishing around a snow-fed river and off-shoots of natural streams. The Spaniards decided to name this area, “ Las Vegas”. In Spanish it translate into “The Meadows”.  With an increase of population throughout the valley, the water fed streams soon dried up, as well as a serious drought. It wasn’t long before Las Vegas turned into the desert we know today. 

Of course, we all know, if it wasn’t for Hoover Dam, Vegas could of stayed a desert. But luckily, the engineered marvel created a man-made lake called “Lake Mead”.  It’s this reason water is now available in Las Vegas ; but for how long ? 

DID YOU KNOW : 

The Fountains of Bellagio covers eight acres of a water pool of entertainment. Everyday, the Fountains are kept up by a special group of engineers, who all have their diving certification ; because maintenance of the Fountains requires them to go underwater.  

DID YOU KNOW : 

The Bellagio, Las Vegas was originally built by Steve Wynn, costing an amazing $1.6 billion.  Opening of the Bellagio was on October 15, 1998, with a grand ceremony cost of $88 million. Whoa! Now that’s an expensive party for the invited VIP guests. Funny ? I don’t remember an invitation Mr Steve Wynn ? 

The Bellagio was then sold to MGM Resorts International in 2000 

DID YOU KNOW : 

Luxor, Las Vegas boasts having the “Brightest Beam of Light” on earth,  from the top of its pyramid? The towering light streaming into space can be seen by ISS ( the International Space Station). It also attracts thousands of bats who feed off of flying insects, attracted to the light. You might say it’s a “Full Bat Buffet” delight.  I wonder if Batman makes an appearance? ( kidding) 

DID YOU KNOW : 

The Nellis Dunes, just north of Las Vegas, was tested for the highest levels of arsenic, ever recorded on earth - go figure ! 

DID YOU KNOW : 

On the westside of McCareen International airport, passengers board a secret Boeing 737’s with the only markings of a red band across from cockpit to tail. These 737’s are owned by the US Department of Defence, however a private military contractor ( ACON) operates them. These planes don’t offer tickets to the public, only to a classified group of workers, supposing heading to AREA 51 - a mysterious military compound ( aka : I’m not saying it’s Aliens 👽, but it’s Aliens 👽) 

Anyone working for the US Department of Defence aren’t allowed to talk about their work or where these planes take them. It’s all hush, hush., but it’s doesn’t take a genius to figure out where they’re going  and what kind of work they do.  The Terminal of departure is only known as “Gold Coast”.  Every morning, at exactly 8:00 am, the group of secret workers head out to an undisclosed destination. 

DID YOU KNOW : 

When you think of City of Las Vegas, we Vegas Lovers always think of the Vegas Strip. Interesting, the Vegas Strip isn’t in Las Vegas at all. In fact, it’s location is in uncorroborated Nevada town, known as “Paradise”.  Las Vegas is divided into four separate counties: 

City of Las Vegas

North Las Vegas

Paradise

Henderson

However, to make it even more confusing, the uncorroborated Nevada town,“Paradise” all have Las Vegas mailing addresses. Any outsider would assume, Paradise is Las Vegas, simply because of the mailing address ; but they would be wrong. 

DID YOU KNOW :  

The Stratosphere, Las Vegas originally dreamed and partially owned by Bob Stupak, had a rough beginnings, even before it was built. From fires to financial hardships, poor Bob Stupak couldn’t get a decent break.  Thankfully his poker player friend, Lyle Berman, agreed to help out Bob, by purchasing a 43 percent stake in the hotel enterprise. 

The architects of “The Stratosphere, Las Vegas” (opened in 1996) designed its tower to reach 1800 ft. Unfortunately, due to flight restrictions, it was decided on 1149 ft.( 350 m), finally agreed by city council.  Ground breaking commenced on Nov. 5 1991. 

One year after the grand opening ( VIP Guests only on April 29, 1996) the owners claimed for bankruptcy in January 1997. 

New York billionaire investor, Carl Icahn ( known for his aggressive “hostile takeovers” ) bought The Stratosphere, Las Vegas for a fraction of its cost, ( original cost was $550 million). It’s rumoured Carl bought it for around $350 million, but only Carl and his lawyer’s know for sure. Just one year before the financial crisis of 2008, he decided to sell all his interests in the casino business, which including the Stratosphere, Arizona Charlie's Boulder, Arizona Charlie's Decatur, and Aquarius Casino Resort to Golden Sachs for $1.3 billion 

Originally architectural design slated for two high towers ; due to increasing financial costs the concept for two towers the same height was scrubbed. However the second tower base was topped off and completed for $65 million, which ( according to Las Vegas Sun) “...included 1,002 guest rooms, a 67,000 square-foot swimming pool and recreation area, private cabanas and a coffee shop.” 

Once again in June 2017, The Stratosphere, Las Vegas was purchased by 

Golden Entertainment for $850 million. As of February 1 2019 The Stratosphere, Las Vegas has officially changed its name to “The STRAT Hotel, Casino and SkyPod”. 

DID YOU KNOW : 

The Fountainebleau was originally developed for a $2.8 billion 3,815 room resort ? Breaking ground in 2007, the developers didn’t expect the “Great Economy Crash” in 2008.  Unfortunately they went bankrupt in 2009, and guess who bought the unfinished resort ? Yup ! You guessed it - Carl Icahn . He bought it for a mere $150 million in 2010 ; after eight years of sitting on the property, he finally sold it in August 2018 to Witkoff and Miami real estate firm New Valley for $600 million.  The property is renamed “The Drew” after Witkoff’s son, who unfortunately died from  OxyContin overdose in 2011.  It’s said to feature 4000 rooms on 60 floors with 500,000 square feet of convention space.  It’s scheduled to be opened in late 2020 - read more...

Wouldn’t it be cool if Witkoff received a license from Paramount Pictures to feature the top floor as a “Star Trek Enterprise Ship with a hallow-deck showcasing the most updated lounge and restaurant in Las Vegas ?  Can you just imagine the possibilities?  Then, without-a-doubt, the LVST ( Las Vegas Star Trek Convention) could be held at “The Drew” showcasing celebrities twice a year, instead of the conventional one year at the Rio, Las Vegas.

Maybe Mr Witkoff could make a deal with Paramount Pictures to have all Star Trek events at “The Drew” , including new TV Series and upcoming  movies.  Hopefully Mr Witkoff will read my article and invite me spin the idea to him in Las Vegas. If everyone agrees and the idea is built, just maybe he would be so kind to invite me to the Grand Opening.  Of course I would showcase it on my Facebook Page : Vegas Reviews with all my Vegas Lovers across the world.  

Wouldn’t that be SO amazing ?!  Please send a message me Mr Witkoff - lets make your new hotel resort super amazing. 

DID YOU KNOW : 

In 1951, the US Department of Defence tested Atomic Bombs in the “Nevada Test Site” , just 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas. The local businessmen of Las Vegas saw these tests as tourist attractions, letting tourists know of the next test, with roofside observations, showcasing the ominous “ Mushroom Cloud” of the Atomic explosion 💥 in the desert.  It’s been said, movie directors filmed in this area and, it’s also claimed actor John Wayne and 220 crew were exposed to radiation during several film shoots, during that era-in-time, leading to cancer.  According to “The Straight Dope” it happened - Read more...

During this time in history, Las Vegas received its nickname “ Atomic City”.   Of course, to easy your mind, the US Department of Defence no longer tests atomic bombs in Nevada. 

Today ( due to a huge presence of solar panels, Las Vegas new nickname is “ Solar City”. 

DID YOU KNOW : 

My wife and I are known as Vegas Lovers, going to Vegas since the 1980’s I had three different careers in my lifetime? One you know of ; under the name, “James Montana Scripts”. Another ( during my twenties) I was an architectural drafting tech. Today I concentrate on screenplays, articles and science-fiction short stories.  My play time is Las Vegas, of course! 

I hope you enjoyed my latest article “ DID YOU KNOW - Interesting facts of Las Vegas” .  Please join me on my Facebook Page “Vegas Reviews”