TravelZork

Vegas News | Siegfried and Sheldon Pass Away, Virgin Is Still Delayed And The Cosmopolitan Is ...

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 19:57:04 GMT

Vegas News January 17, 2021

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Personal Las Vegas Thoughts

There aren’t too many news stories this week, so I’ll kick this off with a personal story (hint: Cosmopolitan Vegas). Last week I spent a night at Circa to check out the hotel rooms and Legacy Club. I really enjoyed the day and night at the property. I love spending time in shiny new casinos, so that was a pleasure.

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Cosmopolitan Vegas – Love Still True in 2021

One of the first shiny new casinos I ever visited was the Cosmopolitan. The property opened just after I moved to Las Vegas in 2010. It was love at first sight. Pound for pound, the Cosmopolitan is probably my favorite property on the Vegas Strip. (Video Room Tour Coming Soon on the TravelZork YouTube Channel.)

The bars and restaurants are fantastic and are the main reason I’ve visited the Cosmopolitan Vegas over the years. I enjoy being at the property. For whatever reason, there’s always a fun environment whenever I visit whether it’s for food, drink, gambling, or a combination.

If you don’t mind playing less than stellar video poker games, you won’t find a better experience than the Chandelier Bar. This bar easily has the best options for complimentary cocktails in Las Vegas. There are bartop games with better paytables but none come close to the boozing.

I stayed a couple of nights at the Cosmopolitan this week. Two complimentary nights in a terrace studio sounded like a great deal – even after taxes and fees.

Cosmo – What It Costs?

The room wasn’t free. The Cosmopolitan charges a $50/night resort fee. On top of that, I paid $35 per night to upgrade to a Bellagio fountain view and it was love at 1,000th sight. The same terrace studio room with Bellagio view normally goes for around $175 before fees.

It’s been years since I stayed at the Cosmopolitan. I loved almost every minute of the experience. Since this was a working holiday I spent a lot of time in the hotel room. If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram you probably saw a billion pictures and videos of the view above.

I’m normally not one for views but knowing I was smitten again. I spent way too much outside on the terrace just watching Vegas.

Covid-Cosmo

I’ve avoided the Cosmopolitan for the most part when visiting casinos for the past year. The younger crowd isn’t too concerned about coronavirus. That’s fine for them but I’d rather not mess around.

Guests were wearing masks for most of my visit except for the evenings. People get a few drinks in them and all hell breaks loose. Employees were another story. I never ventured to the casino and didn’t see people cleaning the property.

A few highlights outside of the view. Momofuku was better than ever. We shared plenty of dishes and didn’t run into a dud once. The restaurant is feeling the pain of limited capacity and rolling restaurant closures at the Cosmopolitan. That said, the staff was even better than the food.

Eggslut still makes the best bacon, egg, and cheese in Vegas. It’s pricey but absolutely fantastic. Eggslut, and pretty much any trip for food, was accompanied by a visit to District Donuts for coffee.

CoronaBonus: No lines anywhere!

Good Eats! — Cosmopolitan Vegas

Someone recommended I try Sancho’s Grilled Cheese from Lardo. The grilled cheese with burnt ends was so good I had it twice. This won’t be the last time I visit Lardo.

I played a variety of slot machines because gambling is something to do in a casino. The Cosmopolitan Vegas has a huge variety of new games and I played lots of them. After a quick win or loss, I’d head back to the room. Sadly, there were more quick losses than wins. Oh well. Dems da breaks.

I think the Cash Machine and all Top Dollar slots are dead to me but that’s a story for another time.

The Cosmopolitan is celebrating its 10 year anniversary throughout the year. You can read about it here. Stay up to date on promotions on the Decade of Mischief page.

The Cosmopolitan has been on sale for almost two years now. I hope whoever ends up buying it doesn’t mess with it too much. On to the real news!

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Las Vegas Quick Hits

There’s plenty of news in and around Las Vegas this week. Let’s hop right to it.

Las Vegas Sands (The Venetian) founder and CEO, Sheldon Adelson, passed away from cancer this week. It might be crass to look ahead already but Barron’s is already reporting that the company will stay on course. That course could include selling The Venetian (and The Palazzo) and starting an online sports betting and casino business. You can read about the latter here.
Mark Davis, the owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, purchased the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces from MGM Resorts. Read more here.
Siegfried of Siegfried and Roy passed away this week. My only memory of the duo was being in Las Vegas on vacation when they were attacked by a tiger. Read more about Siegfried’s passing here.
Breaking news from October 2019. The Tropicana is available to be purchased. Breaking news from January 2020. The Tropicana is available to be purchased. Breaking news from January 2021…more of the same.
In related news, Penn National Gaming (PNG) hotels are now connected with Choice Hotels. The sale of Tropicana might actually be upon us as the property is not listed as a PNG/Choice Hotels property. M Resort is on that list. Read more here.
Thunder from Down Under is back! Read more here.
For some reason, I’ve been reading about Virgin being delayed. We told you the property was delaying the opening (again) last December. We showed you that the Virgin website was showing that the property appears to be targeting an opening date in April later that month. Sadly, the website header has been changed.
Speaking of old news, the newspaper is reporting that there will be an In and Out Burger near Allegiant Stadium. Eater had this info last year. I told you there weren’t too many stories this week.
Holy wow, the Golden Gate Casino celebrated 115 years in business this week. See more here.
The newspaper of record in Nevada is back with their first train article of 2021! Expect to see this continue every 2-3 weeks like it has for the past 15 years. Read about it here.
Encore will be a COVID-19 vaccination center starting Monday, Jan. 18. Read more here.
Looks like the World of Concrete Expo will return to Las Vegas in June. Read more here.

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Retrospective: Wynn Palace and Design DNA

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 04:00:58 GMT

Design DNA

Most hotel operators, especially those in the hospitality world, are known for touting the word revolutionary. Revolutionary new designs, services, offerings, and amenities are all the rage in the PR buzz word dictionary for hoteliers today. Is Wynn Palace Design revolutionary?

Wynn Palace Design

Not Revolution But More Subtle Evolution

But I’ve often maintained while that is nothing explicitly bad, a certain level of design starts to show not revolution but more subtle evolution. At least today, in casino hospitality, this word is confined to one name in my mind…Wynn.

In the first three parts of his live telling of experiencing the opening of Wynn Palace, baccarat_guy has shown us glimpses of many different things through the different areas of the hotel.

The casino, the rooms, the VIP (nee Tower Suites-Esque) check-in, and more. And though each of these pieces, one thing has become evident; this is not just another slight step of evolution like one saw from Wynn to Encore.

It’s important to understand that this article was originally published shortly after Wynn Palace’s opening in August 2016. This is a few years before the next Wynn property to be launched, Encore Boston Harbor.

New Species With All The DNA

Wynn Palace is a full-blown new species with all the DNA of Wynn’s hotels dating back to even, one would argue, the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City. (Referring to the original Golden Nugget on the southern end of the boardwalk in Atlantic City.)

My evidence is honest and self-evident to those of us who are Wynn design fans. In the pictures above of the corridor and the casino, there are already bits and pieces of many things. The circle in a rectangle motif of Bellagio is made over as a gold accent. The Garden Trellis pattern on the wall and the ceiling.

All things that have been seen before but never executed in such a muted color palette that still evokes pure luxury, arguably more so than the Todd Avery Lenahan villas at Encore. The result is warm, welcoming, and signature Wynn down to the specifically floral themed version of his signature red carpet and hand-blown chandeliers.

Wynn Palace Color Palette

But what is singularly the most evolved here at Wynn Palace is the color palette. His past hotels have had mostly muted rich color schemes with pops of color; that idea is shattered all over the floral themed resort. Take, for example, the Ferris Wheel, a creation in a rainbow of flowers and the room it is in. Here, the art is the color, and the architecture becomes a container for taking that color and amplifying it.

A Wynn Hallmark

Mirrored walls and the same diamond grid that’s a Wynn hallmark create a space that takes the colored creation at its center. It reflects it all around, culminating in a whimsical ceiling that almost makes it like being inside a small yet gorgeous carnival. If Wynn were to build a circus tent, this would be it.

And beyond that, there’s no fear of color. Bright orange, teal, red, gold, and many others all mesh across the property to create a fanciful colorful feeling of being inside an architectural jewel box that contains every rich color you can imagine, all worn perfectly in balance by someone who understands how understated and overstated, in the right combination, can blow one’s mind.

I cannot wait to see what else is in store as the exploration of Wynn Palace progresses, and I am assured that one thing will continue to ring true. Just when I’ve given up on leaps of change, Wynn and the D&D team has blown me away yet again.

Note: This article was originally published on 25 August 2016, shortly after Wynn Palace’s opening. This was before the opening of Encore Boston Harbor in June 2019. This article was updated in January 2021.

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Quotable Casino and Gambling Quotes

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 16:56:00 GMT

Gambling Quotes

The Inveterate Gambler is always interested in gambling words of wisdom. Below you will find some of my favorite gambling quotes. Some are classic, some profound; some are just random musing. They come from celebrates, titular characters, or just everyday players.

WINNING IN THE CASINO

“Money won is twice as sweet as money earned.”
–Paul Newman as Fast Eddie Felson, The Color of Money

POKER

“Look around the table. If you don’t see a sucker, get up, because you are the sucker.”
–Amarillo Slim, Poker Player

GREED

“Nobody has ever bet enough on the winning horse.”
–Unknown

THE GAMBLER’S FALLACY

“Another mistaken notion connected with the law of large numbers is the idea that an event is more or less likely to occur because it has or has not happened recently. The idea that the odds of an event with a fixed probability increase or decrease depending on recent occurrences of the event are called the gambler’s fallacy. For example, if Kerrich landed, say, 44 heads in the first 100 tosses, the coin would not develop a bias towards the tails in order to catch up! That’s what is at the root of such ideas as “her luck has run out” and “He is due.” That does not happen. For what it’s worth, a good streak doesn’t jinx you, and a bad one, unfortunately, does not mean better luck is in store.”
–Leonard Mlodinow, The Drunkard’s Walk: How Randomness Rules Our Lives

BASIC TRUTH OF CASINO GAMBLING

“Gambling is a fun way to spend money.”
–The Inveterate Gambler

Be sure to also check out: Five Entertaining Gambling Films That You Probably Haven’t Seen
SECRET CASINO GAMES – Another Layer of Gambling

LEAVING WHILE YOU ARE AHEAD

“I gamble with one foot pointing towards the door.”
–#1 Gambling Author Frank Scoblete

CRAPS

(As the craps shooter 7s out) “Arrrg…I was just going to take my bets down.”
–A player at every craps table, everywhere, everyday.

LOSING IN THE CASINO

“Sure you may win on some trips. You may win five, six or seven trips in a row. But eventually, you will get wiped out. Remember, a losing streak is far more deadly than a winning streak is benevolent. And that’s all you have to know about gambling in Vegas.”
–Mario Puzo author of The Godfather.

THE END RESULT OF PAI GOW POKER

“Does anyone ever really win at Pai Gow Poker?”
—Bethany Walsh, Senior Editor, Miles To Memories, at Gamblepalozza 2018.

CORPORATE LAS VEGAS

“In the old days, dealers knew your name, what you drank, what you played – today it’s like checking into an airport. And if you order room service, you’re lucky if you get it by Thursday.”
–Sam Rothstein in Casino

LUCK

“The only sure thing about luck is that it will change.”
–Bret Harte, author and poet.

BEING LUCKY

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
–Roman philosopher Seneca (Oft Quoted by internet gambling personality “Cousin Vito”)

FUN AT THE CRAPS TABLE

“One day, as the dice are pushed to me for a come-out roll. I want to pick up all five, toss them down the table and yell out, “Yahtzee!”
–Eric Rosenthal, Podcaster and recreational gambling personality, at ZorkFest 2018

ACCEPTING A LOSS

“He beat me… straight up. Pay him…. Pay that man his money.”
–John Malkovich as Teddy KGB in Rounders

THE ATTRACTION TO VICE

“Gambling is pretty much like liquor, you can make it illegal, but you can’t make it unpopular.”
–Unknown

GAMBLING MANIA

“Bet, Bet, B… B… B… B… B… Bet!
–Fred Flintstone, Rock quarry dinosaur operator, and problem gambler.

KNOWING WHEN TO GO

“Quit while you’re ahead. All the best gamblers do.”
–Baltasar Gracian Y Morales, “The Art of Worldly Wisdom.”

EXISTENTIALISM

“What is life if not a gamble.”
–F.E. Higgins, author, in the Black Book of Secrets

FINANCIAL DECISIONS

“Part of it went on gambling, and part of it went on women. The rest I spent foolishly.”
–George Raft, Actor of the 1930’s and 1940’s

CREATING THE CASINO EXPERIENCE

Casino gambling is colorful and dramatic and theatrical.
–Steve Wynn, Casino Visionary

RECREATIONAL GAMBLING

“I want people to understand; gambling is not a bad thing if you do it within the framework of what it’s meant to be, which is fun and entertaining.”
–Michael Jordan, Basketball legend and casino enthusiast.

THE MIND OF THE RECREATIONAL GAMBLER

“I hope to break even today, I really need the money”
–Unknown Poker Player

Note: This article was updated in January 2021.
Image Credit: Unsplash

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Vegas News | Changes and more changes? Rio, Venetian, and nightclubs

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 12:03:00 GMT

Vegas News January 10, 2021

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Vegas – Changes and more changes?

This week seems to be a week of Vegas changes and more changes, potentially. We will have to wait and see how several rumors “play out.” There are just a few days remaining in Nevada’s statewide “pause.” This week Governor Steve Sisolak will announce if the same 25% capacity “pause” restrictions will continue.

Governor Sisolak could roll back capacity limits or announce more. Things don’t seem much better or worse than December, so I don’t think we’ll see any changes, but who knows. Expect to hear an update before the week is over.

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Public health experts are telling people who were outside of Bellagio and Flamingo on New Year’s Eve should assume they’ve been exposed to COVID-19.
Nearby, and unrelated to New Year’s Eve specifically, Rose.Rabbit.Lie at the Cosmopolitan is closing temporarily due to coronavirus restrictions.
It’s been forever since Las Vegas has hosted a major conference. The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is the biggest conference of the year in Las Vegas. It’s happening virtually this week instead of in person. That will crush 1st quarter earnings for hotels as 95% of the hotel rooms are usually booked for the conference. You can follow along on Twitter.
In better convention news, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show is on schedule for October 9–13, 2021. So far 540 exhibitors have signed on to participate in the conference.
Looking ahead, Thrillist has a list of openings planned for 2021. I usually compile a similar list but there are not too many exciting venues opening besides the Virgin and Resorts World. That said, the roundup is useful to keep tabs on Vegas, baby.
In semi-related news, UNLV students have come up with some inventions to help make people feel safe when visiting Las Vegas. I believe the children are our future.
The World Series Of Poker (WSOP) was a bit different this year since it was delayed due to coronavirus. This year the event took place mostly online. The winner was crowned in person at the Rio last week. You can read about it here.
On another related note, brothels in Nevada have been closed for almost 10 months. They’ll continue to remain closed. There’s no date on when brothels will be allowed to reopen.
Last but not least on the coronavirus related news, MGM Resorts is furloughing more employees. Meanwhile, M Resort is laying off about 150 people.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Las Vegas Quick Hits
Vegas Changes and more changes?

Thankfully, not everything happening in Las Vegas is related to coronavirus. I’m fresh off a fun day and night at Circa and ready for a couple of working vacation days at the Cosmopolitan soon. Let’s check out some more Vegas News. You’ll also probably notice a bunch of Vegas Changes and more changes.

Speaking of the Cosmopolitan, the casino racked up $40k in donations from its giving module last year. That’s a lot of loose change donated to good causes. Read more here.
Just over a year ago, I visited Able Baker Brewery in the Art’s District in downtown Las Vegas. This was one of the first taprooms in the area and there were more in the works. SerVehZah Craft Beer Bottle Shop & Taproom just opened in the same area. The Art’s District continues to become a real destination for beer drinkers.
Rumors about the future of Las Vegas Sands (The Venetian/The Palazzo) have been floating around ever since owner Sheldon Adelson first found out he has cancer. Last week we shared a rumor that he may have had a visit with James Packer to discuss a deal. This week we learned that Adelson is taking medical leave to deal with his cancer.
Vital Vegas is sharing a rumor that Hard Rock International could be teaming with Blackstone Real Estate Investments to buy The V and The P. I guessed that Blackstone would partner again with MGM Resorts if they were interested in the property. The rumor is that the price to buy the property will be about $6 billion. Hard Rock would pay $4 billion while Blackstone will chip in $2 billion.
If you were spending $4 billion on a Las Vegas casino would you buy The Cosmopolitan yourself or partner with someone to buy The Venetian and Palazzo? Another option is that the company could spend much less on a Caesars property and spend money to reinvent it to their specifications.
There are some vague plans for the future of the RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino here. I didn’t realize Cosmopolitan CEO Bill McBeath was a consultant on gaming. He did a great job reinventing the Cosmopolitan. For example, I recall reading that the video poker bar in the sportsbook generates more money alone than the 150+ slot machines that once occupied the space. I’m curious to see what he advises for the RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. Oh yeah, no implosion or baseball stadium is planned.
There have been rumors about Las Vegas getting an NBA team since T-Mobile Arena opened. Those rumors are heating up again as the league looks for new revenue to offset losses related to coronavirus. Read more here.
The Vegas Golden Knights start their season this week. The team will play home games at T-Mobile Arena once again. Unfortunately, fans won’t be allowed to buy tickets to games yet.
IGT received approval for cashless gaming in Nevada. No casinos are on board yet but I think we’ll see this roll out with Station Casinos first. They use IGT’s loyalty and cardless connect system so this would fit right in. The company was also approved for a bitcoin patent. Read more here.
Last year, I heard a rumor that Tao would buy Hakkasan. I didn’t explore it because it’s not something I have much personal interest in. This week one of Hakkasan’s top executives left the company. It’s probably not a coincidence that Vital Vegas shares a rumor that Tao might buy Hakkasan. Nothing is done yet but it looks like this rumor has legs.

IGT and the Plaza Hotel & Casino Celebrate Life-Changing Jackpots with Las Vegas’ Exclusive Wheel of Fortune® Slots Zone

Plaza now has a Wheel Of Fortune Slot Zone in the middle of the casino. This sounds like an amazing destination if you want to be surrounded by 40 games yelling WHEEL-OF-FORTUNE at the same time. Read more here.
Hubert Keller is leaving his restaurants at Mandalay Bay. MGM is taking over operations for Fleur and looking for a new Burger Bar partner. Read more here.
The majestic resort was announced way back in early 2019. It appears as though construction will begin this year. You can find new details here and you can learn about the 1960’s design here.

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Hotel Review | Circa Resort Single King – Las Vegas

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 01:18:18 GMT

Hotel Review Circa Vegas – Circa hotel tower from Stadium Swim

The hotel at Circa Resort & Casino opened on December 28. We couldn’t wait to check it out (and Legacy Club Circa) but decided to give the staff a week to work out the kinks before spending the night. We are excited to share our hotel review and thoughts about Circa Vegas.

Waiting for a few days was a good call as the staff was on top of everything from the moment we checked into room 3324 at Circa.

Going back to the first press release announcing Circa, the property has been billed as something different:

“It will mix the glamour of vintage Vegas with modern luxuries and cutting-edge technology, honoring the golden age of the city. “

You’ll find “modern luxuries” throughout the casino and resort at Circa. The hotel rooms certainly offer technology found in very few Las Vegas casino hotels.

While there are certain magnificent features this isn’t the same kind of luxury you expect with a Wynn property, for example.

Circa might be a notch below the most luxurious resorts in Las Vegas but it’s also a couple of steps above the average property. It’s important to understand this and manage expectations appropriately.

We’ve got video!
Our video review will go live on YouTube on Sunday,
the 10th of January.
If you want to see a preview, join the TravelZork Facebook Group.

You’ll Find In This Article

Getting Started – Hotel Review Circa Vegas
Legacy Club – Circa Las Vegas
Circa Food – No Room Service Yet
Slow Wifi and Lack Of Outlets disappoint
Overall Thoughts – Hotel Review Circa Vegas
- FAQ – Circa Las Vegas Hotel and Circa Las Vegas Legacy Club

Getting Started –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Booked a Single King

Shortly after Christmas, I booked a Single King hotel room at Circa. After taxes and a resort fee, the cost was $190.91. I assumed parking was part of the $29.95 resort fee like most casinos but it isn’t.

Total Cost – $215

The total cost of the standard single King room at Circa was $215 after paying $25 to park for the day. This was obnoxious but it’s only money.

Checking In – Circa Las Vegas

Checking into Circa was quick and contactless as I ran the credit card through the machine on the counter. I asked for a Strip or Stadium Swim view but was told that’s $40 more.

That wasn’t a big deal since I planned on spending my time in the room working or having a meal.

There are also self-check-in kiosks on the first and second floor for those who prefer less human contact. That’s usually more my speed but I wanted to have the full in-person experience.

Circa Resort has staff members at the elevators 24 hours a day. The property has the same great and fast elevator system as The D. The staff will usually enter the floor and let you know which elevator will pick you up.

This is neat but also a great security feature for guests.

Finally In The Room

While the hotel tower at Circa appears large, it’s not nearly as big as most of the massive hotels on the Vegas Strip. The walk to the room was quick and painless.

The first thing I noticed walking into the room was a little shelf cut out in the closet across from the bathroom. A neat little place to leave a drink when you hurry back to the room to use the facilities.

While the Standard King room is rather large (this room type is between 403 to 752 square feet), there isn’t a dresser. The closet serves as the only place to keep your clothes.

I’d rather have the extra bench area in that space but I know some prefer putting clothes in drawers when on vacation.

Right To The Bathroom

The early pictures I saw of the bathroom looked great so I was actually looking forward to checking it out. The bathroom is really is beautiful. It has a marble dual sink vanity. In between the sinks, there’s a cutout for a chair and a low mirror. This seems ideal for someone who needs to do makeup.

The knobs and handles in the bathroom are brushed bronze and compliment the wallpaper above. This design feels modern and classic. This seems like a design I’d see on a home-flipping show.

The bathroom has a huge shower with a bench. The water flow from the adjustable rain shower head is so strong that you can easily wash off the filth from the Fremont Street Experience. Shower pressure is hit and miss in casinos and this gets an enthusiastic thumbs up.

Like many, I typically don’t like toiletry dispensers in a shower. I still don’t like it but they did the job. The scents of everything reminded me of shower gel and shampoo from other properties.

There’s no tub in the bathroom. While the toilet is somewhat hidden, it doesn’t have a privacy door. This is a large, pretty, and functional bathroom.

The Living Area –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Since I had a King room with only one bed, the sleeping area also doubles as a living area. The couch is rather large with an awkward ottoman that brushes right up to the end table. It was comfortable but the ottoman just gets in the way since you have to climb over it to sit.

Some of the King Rooms at Circa have a neat Murphy Bed in the wall.

As I mentioned earlier there isn’t a dresser in the room at Circa. Instead, there’s a bench below the humongous 55” TV. Both are great uses of space. The bench is great for sitting or getting dressed. Sadly, I wasn’t in the room long enough to watch TV.

There’s no phone in the room. There’s a tablet that allows guests to check the weather, read the news, and communicate with different staff members.

Guests can also schedule wake-up calls and contact the concierge from the tablet. I used my phone to text the concierge a few times during my visit. They quickly answered questions about the mini-refrigerator, parking fees, and made a reservation at 8 East (phenomenal).

Communicating with the staff by texting from a tablet or phone was a great service you expect from a casino hotel operated by Derek Stevens.

Speaking of “modern luxuries and cutting-edge technology”, there are two lighting control panels in the hotel room. Next to the door, a guest can turn the lights in the room on and off.

Next to the bed is a more specific lighting control panel that allows guests various lighting options. I used the “bright” setting for work and the “happy hour” setting for a chill time watching TV.

The night light setting was great. Instead of keeping a light or two on full blast to find the bathroom at night, I was able to keep some dimmer lights on. It worked perfectly for a mid-slumber visit to the potty.

The lighting options will be great for most people. However, I was trying to work one evening and could have used another light on the workspace. This could be an issue for business travelers.

Sleeping Area –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

There’s plenty of room in and around the king-size bed. In addition to the couch in the living area, there’s a little chair in the corner.

The mattress was pretty firm but also very comfortable. The pillows were an odd kind of fluffy but comfortable.

I had about three good hours of sleep. I think would have really enjoyed the mattress if I didn’t have sleeping problems. Having said that, I did have a nice nap after eating an early breakfast.

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Legacy Club – Circa Las Vegas

The LEGACY CLUB opened along with the hotel so I missed it when attending the casino opening in October.

The space is absolutely beautiful inside and out. There are great views and the staff is as good as you expect.

LEGACY CLUB – Inspired by Las Vegas’ founding fathers, Legacy Club Rooftop Cocktails will overlook the city on Circa’s 60^th floor, delivering an elegant rooftop club lounge with a panoramic view of the Downtown skyline.

The bar inside the Legacy Club reminds me of The Franklin at Delano. Just a nice relaxing bar with high-quality spirits. I had a sazerac and tried a 1-ounce pour of a Japanese whiskey. The small pours are a great way to explore booze for less than full price.

This is a relatively small bar for the large space. I point this out because the bartenders only make drinks for people sitting at the bar. There’s a service bar in the back that makes drinks for the rest of the lounge. This will probably be overlooked by many but it’s a great feature that allows the bartenders to spend more time with guests.

There’s ample seating inside the Legacy Club. This part of the lounge reminded me of the SkyBar at Waldorf Astoria. It’s beautiful and comfortable. The space is worthy of the dress code that’s enforced before guests are allowed entry to the elevator.

The rooftop deck outside is fantastic with views looking out to all of the Las Vegas valley similar to Voodoo Lounge at Rio. I checked it out during the day and night and was impressed. The atmosphere is relaxing and you can see almost every corner of Las Vegas.

Circa Food – No Room Service Yet

There’s no room service at Circa right now. That could change in the future. For the time being, you can grab food in the casino and bring it to the room.

I decided to have lunch/happy hour and dinner inside 8 East. Both meals were as great as I expected and I cannot recommend this restaurant enough.

Happy Hour dishes were $8 each. The pork belly bao was phenomenal. The brisket fried rice at dinner was as great as expected. The dumplings and chicken skewers were good but not amazing.

After giving up on sleep I was starving and picked up a massive breakfast from Saginaw’s Deli. Lori’s Across The Board has three eggs, bacon, potatoes, pancakes, and toast for $18. It’s way too much food but what I had was excellent for a 24 hour a day restaurant.

Saginaw’s didn’t have iced coffee so I made a trip to Jack Pots for some cold brew while my food was being prepared. I prefer their blend of beans for hot coffee but this did the trick.

Slow Wifi and Lack Of Outlets disappoint

It took me nearly 20 hours to send three videos at this speed

I’m someone who is always connected to some kind of device connected to the internet whether I’m working or not. When the wifi was working, it was slower than I’ve seen outside of a coffee shop or restaurant. Guests can pay $5 to upgrade the wifi speed.

Another disappointment in the Circa hotel room was the lack of accessible outlets throughout the room. The work area has an outlet for USBs and traditional plugs. I could not find an outlet next to the bed or couch.

I reached out to Circa and they are installing bed-side outlets that will feature USB and traditional plugin options. I’m surprised this wasn’t part of the initial build out but at least that’s being remedied.

Overall Thoughts –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

I had a great stay at Circa. The rooms are large, comfortable, well-appointed and the bathroom design is great. I stayed in the least expensive base-level room at Circa.

The Single King is probably the best overall entry-level room in downtown Las Vegas I’ve stayed in.

This isn’t a traditional Las Vegas luxury hotel but it is a step up from middle of the road properties. You get what you pay for at Circa.

Between the rooms, casino, restaurants, and bars you’re paying a fair price for what you get. It’s just helpful to remember that Circa isn’t an older budget hotel. Everything I’ve experienced so far is worth the price for the experience.

Glamour, Vintage Vegas, Modern Luxuries

When visiting the casino for the first time I was in awe that Stadium Swim and the sportsbook lived up to the potential that the renderings showed.

Overall, Circa Resort and Casino delivers on the promise that “it will mix the glamour of vintage Vegas with modern luxuries and cutting-edge technology, honoring the golden age of the city.“

FAQ – Circa Las Vegas Hotel
and Circa Las Vegas Legacy Club

Does Circa Las Vegas Hotel have room service?

There’s no room service at Circa right now. That could change in the future. For the time being, you can grab food in the casino and bring it to the room.

Is the WiFi (Internet) good at Circa Las Vegas Hotel?

When the wifi was working, it was slower than I’ve seen outside of a coffee shop or restaurant. Speed on the download was approximately 2.75 Mbps.

What is Legacy Club at Circa Las Vegas?

Legacy Club Rooftop Cocktails overlook the city on Circa’s 60^th floor, delivering an elegant rooftop club lounge with a panoramic view of the Downtown skyline.

Can you bring kids to Circa Las Vegas?

NO. Circa Las Vegas is adults only, 21+ years.

The post Hotel Review | Circa Resort Single King – Las Vegas appeared first on TravelZork.

Vegas News | It’s A New Year In Vegas!

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 18:07:00 GMT

Vegas News January 3, 2021

TravelZork Las Vegas News

A New Year In Vegas

Happy New Year! I hope the holiday season treated you and yours well. You may have noticed we posted a handful of 2021 Las Vegas predictions on New Year’s Day. Many of the topics were speculative based on information I’ve heard from casino operators during their earnings calls.

New Year’s Eve In Vegas

The first topic was not speculation; it was based on real-life events in the news. Coronavirus isn’t going away quickly, and Las Vegas will be slow to recover. Case in point – New Year’s Eve. You’ve probably seen pictures of large groups of people celebrating the new year on the Vegas Strip from various news outlets.

My hope is that this isn’t a big deal but that’s probably wishful thinking based on events from the past year. New Year’s Eve was probably the last busy night in Las Vegas for a while.

I’m just guessing that there will be an increase of coronavirus cases in Las Vegas soon. If crowds on the Vegas Strip mean anything, the number of cases should begin to drop off shortly after the increase.

Last week we told you that the Fremont Street Experience was charging $25 for visitors to enter the mall of casinos on New Year’s Eve. After the Governor condemned the decision it was rescinded. The Fremont Street Experience was only accessible to hotel guests on New Year’s Eve.

The Plaza went ahead with its midnight fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. The casino worked with the city to close parts of Main Street so people could watch the fireworks while keeping a safe distance from others. Here’s a video of the show if you like watching fireworks.

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Atlantic City January 2021 | Governor extends New Jersey’s public-health emergency

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 04:58:00 GMT

TravelZork Atlantic City – News, Promotions and Events

Atlantic City January 2021

For a 10th time Gov. Phil Murphy has extended New Jersey’s public-health emergency, this time through late January. The order expires after 30 days if it is not extended. The announcement came as New Jersey’s second-wave surge has shown some signs of leveling off. “Given where we are currently we must remain in a proper footing where [state officials] can have the authority to continue responding to the challenges posed by the pandemic,” the governor said.

The order gives Murphy the power to keep taking executive action to fight COVID-19’s spread. It does not reverse any of the steps the governor already has taken to reopen the state, or institute any new restrictions, but it does keep the state’s current restrictions in place – such as 50 percent capacity at stores and 25 percent capacity for indoor dining, as well as mandates to wear masks in public.

In addition, Murphy ordered bars and restaurants to halt indoor dining from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.; however, takeout and outdoor dining may continue past 10 p.m., adding that no bar-side seating is allowed. Another change allows restaurants to seat tables closer than six feet apart if they erect a barrier. He also said that all indoor interstate athletic events will be prohibited.

For more information and details about COVID-19 in Atlantic City casinos, click here.

The Cove opens at Ocean Casino

The Cove High-Limit Slot Experience has opened at Ocean Casino Resort. As you enter the casino from the self-park garage, the 7,450-sq. ft. high limit gaming area is located just past Wahlburgers and features more than 140 slot machines with a combination of classic and new games. The private gaming area has its own cashiers, restrooms and two small sitting areas. The Cove also offers dedicated cocktail service with an enhanced beverage selection

Bally’s opens temporary sportsbook

Bally’s Corp. and FanDuel Group have opened a temporary FanDuel Sportsbook at Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino. The sportsbook features six live odds boards, 10 self-service betting kiosks, and three betting windows with attendants available to assist customers with the sports betting process. It will allow bets on all major U.S. sports, including professional baseball, soccer, football, basketball, golf, boxing, motorsports racing, and more.

Design and construction are currently underway on the permanent FanDuel Sportsbook location, which Bally’s expects to open in the spring. The facility will span 4,100 sq. ft. and consist of 34 self-service betting kiosks, and five attended live wagering windows. It also will feature a luxury 80-seat lounge with 30 reclining club chairs, oversized LED video walls, and a food and beverage menu including self-service craft beer.

The temporary sportsbook, directly accessible from the Boardwalk and prominently located on the main casino floor, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week for self-service kiosks. Attendants are available at live wagering stations from noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Ocean customers donate $12,000 to charities

Ocean Casino Resort donated $12,000 to four of its 2020 Ocean Cares-sponsored organizations. Representatives from The Alcove Center for Grieving Children and Families, The Humane Society of Atlantic County, and The Marine Mammal Stranding Center all were on hand to receive a $3,000 check from Ocean CEO Terry Glebocki.

The Ronald McDonald House also received a check but could not attend the presentation. The donation was made possible by the thoughtfulness of Ocean’s guests, who deposited their coin receipts into charity boxes posted around the casino floor. Those receipts of small change grew into thousands of dollars.

MGM extends (M Life) expiration dates

Players at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, part of MGM Resorts International, will benefit from that parent company’s extension of the expiration dates for M life Rewards Points and Express Comps until March 31, 2021. MGM will continue to evaluate this policy over the coming months.

According to an email from CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle, “We recognize that current events make it difficult, if not impossible, for so many to travel and we don’t want you to have ongoing concerns around your ability to enjoy rewards you have earned over time. We so look forward to the day you’ll be back to enjoy all the entertainment and fun MGM Resorts has waiting for you.”

Harrah’s reopens poker room

The second Atlantic City casino to bring back live poker following a resort-wide shutdown this year, Harrah’s Resort has reopened its World Series of Poker-branded roo. “We’ve spent the last several months ensuring we had enhanced health and safety measures in place, so both our players and team members can feel confident when they play at Harrah’s,” says Ron Baumann, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s and Caesars Atlantic City.

The poker room is open daily at noon and closes at 4 a.m. To encourage social distancing, seating is limited to eight per table and polycarbonate dividers separate players, who must wear masks. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, which has Atlantic City’s largest poker room, resumed live play Oct. 21.

In addition to Harrah’s and Borgata, there are poker rooms at Bally’s, Golden Nugget and Tropicana. Ocean Casino Resort had poker tables but removed them to make space for a new high-limit slot area, and there are plans to reopen the poker room at Tropicana at this time.

Free slot tournaments

Beginning Jan. 8 play in a free slot tournament at Resorts Casino Hotel every Friday through Feb. 19. Register at the Slot Tournament Area across from the Promotions Booth. Play once every Friday – Red Carpet cardholders can play twice – to win from $500 to $1,250 in slot cash. Winners have until midnight on the day of the tournament to claim their prizes.

Hard Rock makes changes to Wild Card Rewards

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s Wild Card Rewards program has changed its earning period to a calendar year – Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. There also are changes to tier earning thresholds allowing players to accumulate tier points 20 times faster. To earn Rock Royalty and Elite status, players must now earn 4,000 and 15,000 tier points, respectively – up from 750 and 250 points. “Rest assured that we have made it easier for you to advance through our tiers, even though the tier point requirements have increased,” according to an email players received. While players began earning toward their 2022 status on Friday, Jan. 1, they will keep their current status through Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021. Tier benefits for status earned through Dec. 31, 2020, will become available Monday, March 1, 2021. Also, beginning on March 1, Hard Rock will be partnering with its Seminole Hard Rock properties in Florida to offer new benefits for X Card and Rock Royalty cardholders.

Trump Plaza to be demolished next month

The former Trump Plaza casino will be blown up next month and, for the right amount of money, you could be the one to press the button that brings it down. The demolition will become a fundraiser to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Atlantic City that Mayor Marty Small hopes will raise more than $1 million.

Opened in 1984, Trump Plaza was closed in 2014 and has fallen into such a state of disrepair that demolition work began earlier last year. The remainder of the structure will be dynamited on Friday, Jan. 29. The Boys & Girls Club has hired a professional auction company to solicit bids through Tuesday, Jan. 19, when the top bids will be revealed and a live auction will determine a winner.

The organization provides after-school and summer recreation, education and career-training programs for Atlantic City children and teens. Billionaire Carl Icahn took ownership of the company out of bankruptcy court in February 2016 and Trump Plaza has sat empty for six years. Icahn has agreed to the demolition. Small said he is eager to discuss potential uses for the land with Icahn once the casino is gone, including some sort of family attraction. “Not often does inner-city oceanfront land open up,” the mayor said. “We have one chance to get this right.”

Ocean VIP Lounge opens daily to Platinum cardholders

While the Chairman and VIP Lounges are temporarily closed, Platinum Ocean Rewards Club cardholders may now use the VIP Lounge every day. Located in the area outside Ovation Hall, the lounge offers cocktails and other beverages, as well as full-service dining. Platinum cardholders are permitted up to one guest, and there is a charge of 10 comp dollars per person.

Shuttle shuttered

Transportation on the Caesars Rewards Shuttle has been temporarily suspended until further notice.

Leave the driving to them

Golden Nugget has reopened its valet parking service from noon Fridays to midnight Sundays. Upon arrival all vehicle occupants must have a face covering and valet team members also will be wearing face coverings, as well as protective gloves at all times.

Guests will be asked to lower their windows, and turn off air conditioning or heating in the vehicle. Keys are to be left in the center console cup holder. Through departure disposable steering wheel covers will be applied. Upon request, all high touch areas such as the gear shift, handles and window switches will be wiped down with a disinfectant.

Golden Nugget joins Borgata, Hard Rock, Ocean Casino and Tropicana offering limited or daily valet service to some or all of their customers. For details on current valet parking in Atlantic City, visit www.MrACCasino.com.

CRDA approves indoor water park

The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has approved plans for Showboat Hotel’s proposed indoor water park, as well as 20 years of tax breaks. Owner, Philadelphia developer Bart Blatstein, will be entitled to an annual rebate of up to $2.5 million in sales tax generated by it.

There also will be tax breaks on construction materials used for the project. The 103,000-sq. ft. indoor water park, a 30,000-sq. ft. family entertainment center and a complete renovation of the Premier Lite tower in the Showboat Hotel are parts of the plan. The water park will be constructed on the New Jersey Avenue beach block lot between Showboat and Ocean Casino Resort.

Borgata President/COO named one of ‘25 People To Watch’

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa President and Chief Operating Officer Melonie Johnson is among Global Gaming Business Magazine’s 19th annual “25 People To Watch” list for 2021. It’s the 19th edition of this popular feature published every year in the January issue.

Honorees are recognized for their past accomplishments and their upcoming potential actions that will have an impact on gaming in 2021 and beyond. The selections are made by the magazine’s Editorial Advisory Board, a collection of knowledgeable and connected people in the gaming industry. Nominees came from all aspects of the gaming business – land-based and online operators and suppliers, regulators, attorneys, tribal government officials, public officials, academics, and more.

Pennsylvania casinos, restaurants closed until Jan. 4

Based on mitigation measures put into place by Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, Harrah’s Philadelphia (and all other casinos in Pennsylvania) remain closed until 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 4. Theaters, concert venues, museums, movie theaters, arcades, bowling alleys, private clubs, and all other similar entertainment, recreational or social facilities also are prohibited from operating. In addition, indoor dining at restaurants, bars and other retail food services is prohibited.

Further, indoor gatherings and events of more than 10 persons are prohibited, with the exception of places of congregate worship; however, these institutions are strongly encouraged to find alternative methods for worship. Outdoor gatherings and events of more than 50 persons also are prohibited. All businesses serving the public only may operate at up to 50 percent of the maximum capacity stated on the applicable certificate of occupancy, except as limited by existing orders to a smaller capacity limit. “This virus continues to rage in Pennsylvania,” Wolf said at a news conference. “Clearly we need to take future mitigation actions and stop the spread of Covid-19. We all hoped it would not come to this. The current state of the surge in Pennsylvania will not allow us to wait.” For news related to other activities, click here.

Cruise lines cancel most cruises through March

Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled all voyages with embarkation dates through Sunday, Feb. 28, as well as all voyages onboard Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Epic, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Sky, Sun and Pride of America with embarkation dates through Wednesday, March 31. In addition, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Line are extending their global suspension through Feb. 28.

Exceptions to this include Royal Caribbean Singapore sailings onboard Quantum of the Seas, and Spectrum of the Seas’ China departures between Sunday, Jan. 24 and Feb. 28.

Additionally, the remainder of the Royal Caribbean Australia/New Zealand season has been canceled through April.

For up-to-date information on Atlantic City players lounges and valet parking policies, visit MrACCasino.com.

**Looking ahead (schedules subject to change):**

Feb. 26 and 27: Sebastian Maniscalco, Borgata

Here are other “insider” tips about what’s happening in Atlantic City during January:

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Promotions
Earn 10X Slot Dollars on rated slot play from 9 p.m. to midnight every Friday in January.

Borgata is giving away 100 to 500 Bonus Slot Dollars to five winners (one from each M life Rewards card tier) every 15 minutes from noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 3. Insert your M life Rewards card into any slot machine from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win.

Earn 10X slot dollars from 9 p.m. to midnight on Fridays in January.

Borgata is giving away 777 Bonus Slot Dollars to one winner every seven minutes from noon to 7 p.m. on Sundays, Jan. 10 and 24, and Monday, Jan. 25. Insert your M life Rewards card into a slot machine or open a table games rating from 10 a.m.to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win. Winners will have 30 minutes to claim their prize at the M life Rewards Desk. Winners’ names will be announced overhead and displayed on television screens throughout the casino. Each customer can only win once per event. Must be 21 or older. Valid ID required. Non-transferable. No play required for activation.

From 2 to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 14 and 15, play slots with your M life Rewards card and when Slot Dollar Celebration hits, you win 10 Bonus Slot Dollars. Your M life Rewards card must be inserted into a slot machine and active at the time of each drawing to be eligible. A card inserted into a slot machine for five minutes with no play will be considered inactive. Drawing times are random every hour.

Between Saturday and Monday, Jan. 16 and 18, 1,000 M life cardholders could win 1,000 Bonus Slot Dollars. Names will be posted on plasma screens throughout the casino floor. Drawings will be held from 4 to 9 p.m. Jan. 16 and 17, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 18. Awarded Bonus Slot Dollars, which must be played within 30 days, will be automatically loaded to winners’ M life Rewards account and are valid until 5:59 a.m. the following day. Slot Dollars not activated will be considered forfeited and voided.

On Saturday, Jan. 30, Borgata is giving away a Mercedes GLC 300 at 3, 6 and 9 p.m. Insert your M life Rewards card into a slot machine or open a table games rating from 1 to 8:30 p.m. for a chance to win.

Details on all promotions are available at the M life Rewards Center.

Caesars Atlantic City
Promotions
Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program cardholders can make weekly picks by choosing which team they think will win in the eligible NFL football games and activate those picks for their chance to win a share of $60,000 in prizes each week. First place winner each week walks away with $20,000 cash. For further details click here.

Golden Nugget Casino, Hotel & Marina
Promotions
Every Sunday in January 24K and Premier 24K Select cardholders receive 2X tier credits, Chairman cardholders get 3X and Elite cardholders get 4X.

Monday, Jan. 18, 24K Select cardholders receive 2X comp dollars.

Every Tuesday and Thursday in January 24K Select cardholders receive 2X tier credits and 2X comp dollars.

Free self-parking continues.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Promotions
X and Rock Royalty cardholders can enjoy complimentary drinks at Hard Rock’s new outdoor Balcony Bar.

Hard Rock continues its Wild Card tier match program until further notice. Details here.

Rock Royalty and X cardholders can convert up to 1,000 comp dollars into free play once per day, every day, as long as they maintain a minimum $25 balance.

Entertainment and Events
The Lobby Bar offers free live entertainment plus drink specials every Saturday and Sunday.

Harrah’s Resort
Promotions
Caesars Rewards cardholders can make weekly picks by choosing which team they think will win in the eligible NFL football games and activate those picks for their chance to win a share of $60,000 in prizes each week. First place winner each week walks away with $20,000 cash. For further details click here.

Ocean Casino Resort
Promotions
Free self-parking continues for all Ocean Rewards Club cardholders.

Visit the Ocean Rewards Club for details.

Resorts Casino Hotel
Promotions
Play your favorite slots or table games while using your Star Card through Sunday, Jan. 31, to earn entries into the $35,000 Jackpot Drawings on Saturday, Feb. 27. Earn one entry for every hand-paid taxable jackpot. At the Finale Event from 6 to 10 p.m., one winner of $1,000 in slot cash will be drawn every 10 minutes beginning at 6 p.m. At 10:15 the grand prize of $10,000 will be drawn.

Premiere Star cardholders who earn two tier points during a gaming day park free in the self-park garage at Resorts. Check any promotional kiosk to confirm the points and present a valid Star card at the exit.

Visit the Promotions Booth for details on all promotions.

Tropicana Atlantic City
Entertainment and Events
AC Jokes comedy club performs live at Kiss Kiss Nightclub nightly at 8 p.m., except Saturdays when showtime is 7 and 9 p.m. Shows last about 90 minutes. For more information and to purchase tickets visit ACJokes.com.

Everything AC Casinos (Atlantic City)
Facebook Group
JOIN TODAY!!

Recreational gambler Darryl D. McEwen is publisher of the Seven Stars Insider – both the website (SevenStarsInsider.com) and the monthly newsletter. For a free subscription to the newsletter, email him at SevenStarsInsider@gmail.com and tell him how you heard about it. You also can download the newsletter from the website where he frequently updates news about Caesars Entertainment Corp., Eldorado Resorts Inc. and Caesars Rewards under “Latest News” on the Home page. In addition, be sure to follow @7StarsInsider on Twitter. Darryl also writes a bi-weekly column, Mr. AC Casino, for the Atlantic City Weekly. The companion website is MrACCasino.com and the matching Twitter account is @MrACCasino. A former professional journalist, based in Wilmington, Del., Darryl is president of his own consulting firm that manages several small national and international trade associations, and provides public relations and fundraising services for a number of charitable organizations.

The post Atlantic City January 2021 | Governor extends New Jersey’s public-health emergency appeared first on TravelZork.

???? 2021 | Las Vegas Predictions

Sat, 02 Jan 2021 02:19:31 GMT

Las Vegas Predictions

It’s a new year, and there’s a lot to look forward to in Las Vegas. There will be a lot of moving and shaking behind the scenes in 2021. On the front lines, the general population will continue to deal with the daily effects of coronavirus. Businesses, however, will be looking to the future. This brings us to our Las Vegas Predictions for 2021.

Whatever normal may become as the year moves forward there will be a new Las Vegas when the masses return. Some will be good and some will be bad. That’s life. Let’s take a quick look into the possibility of the near future in Las Vegas.

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Las Vegas Predictions

Coronavirus Swoon Continues

Yeah, duh. We get it but this has to be reiterated. It doesn’t appear as if coronavirus is going away anytime soon. The vaccine that so many people want before traveling seems like it won’t really impact the masses until the second half of the year.

Las Vegas will continue to be slow and different for a while as entertainment and conventions remain on hold.

This could still be a great time to visit for someone willing to travel. The great deals from the fourth quarter of 2020 should continue through the winter and spring.

I’ve always been a fan of Las Vegas but that was accelerated during the last recession. I was able to stay at luxury properties for the price of budget properties. The value properties were comp’d or as close to free as can be.

Being able to see a different side of Las Vegas took my passion in a new direction. I was able to enjoy the things I already enjoyed and could finally explore new places and things that may have been out of reach at the time.

This impacted my life outside of Las Vegas too. I’m lucky to have had the opportunity to explore different things in like. I’m a more well rounded and possibly smarter person for it. We can debate the latter another time.

Casino Sales
-Las Vegas Predictions

There should be a handful of casino deals in 2021, and I can’t wait to see some new blood in the market. Resorts World and Virgin/Mohegan Sun opening could be just the beginning.

Caesars has said they intend to sell at least one Vegas Strip property by the summer. My guess isn’t far from the rumors from the past year. I expect the company to sell PLANET HOLLYWOOD Las Vegas Resort to Hard Rock International. The company purchased the rights to the Hard Rock Las Vegas name last year. I also think Caesars will sell Bally’s to Bally’s at a deep discount.

The Tropicana saga will continue and there will at least be a new casino operator with Penn National Gaming only operating M Resort in Las Vegas. The real estate company that owns the land could sell too but real estate deals don’t excite me.

The Cosmopolitan is still on the market. Some casino corporations are looking to buy properties at a discount. That won’t likely be the case with the Cosmopolitan as Blackstone has put a lot of money into transforming the property over the years.

Few existing casino companies have funding for this kind of upgraded luxury project so there could be a land/operator deal in the works. Blackstone already this kind of joint venture with MGM Resorts. Perhaps they team up to run another deal.

Red Rock Resorts (AKA Station Casinos) seems happy with the revenue from the casinos it reopened. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Palms and the other properties sold so the company can focus on the properties that are already working.

Palms could fetch the same amount of money as Texas Station, Fiesta Rancho, and Fiesta Henderson combined. I think Palms will be sold to a new operator in Las Vegas and Boyd could pick up at least one of the locals casinos they seem to do so well operating.

New Sportsbook Operators
-Las Vegas Predictions

2020 was a year of consolidation for Las Vegas sportsbook operators. William Hill purchased CG Technology and Caesars purchased William Hill. The two companies operate similarly but separately.

New casino openings and existing casino sales will bring a slew of new sportsbook operators to Nevada in 2021. Hard Rock and Bally’s operate their own sportsbooks. Betfred will operate the sportsbook at Virgin.

Resorts World once said they’d operate the sportsbook themselves but I think they’ll actually lease the space to a different operator. My guess DraftKings will operate the sports bar and book at Resorts World. There’s some logic in how I get here.

I think the Nevada Gaming Commission will change laws to allow remote account setup. This should increase the amount of money wagered. In turn, the state will see more tax revenue from sports betting.

When the change happens, online sportsbook operators FanDuel and DraftKings will finally enter the market. I think that will happen in time for one of these companies to operate the sportsbook at Resorts World.

FanDuel has a deal with Boyd Gaming already and I expect those sportsbooks to be transformed to FanDuel operations.

Oh yeah, Boyd Gaming sold Eldorado casino in Henderson. This could be an entry point for a new sportsbook operator that relies on remote account setup. Looking forward to 2021, the potential Marnell casino in Henderson could also be attractive to a sportsbook operator.

Nevada Gets Some Kind Of Lottery

Lost tax revenue is going to be a big deal for Nevada this year. As previously mentioned, allowing remote sports betting registration could lead to more tax revenue.

Another way the state could increase tax revenue is to legalize the lottery. In theory this could generate oodles of tax money for the state. I don’t know the legalities of it but the time might finally be right to move forward with some form of lottery in Nevada.

New Construction
-Las Vegas Predictions

I think there will be some land sold on the cheap and there will be new construction. Station Casinos could flip some of its properties and finally build Durango Station since they seem focused on the locals market.

The land once planned for Wynn West will be sold on the cheap and might be developed in the future. Fontainebleau may be sold again. A new owner could finally implode the building to make room for a new property in the future.

The Killers move on from Imploding The Mirage. Sorry.

There are a handful of possible projects like the Atari and Majestic hotels that could start construction later this year when more tourists and conventions return to Las Vegas might begin returning to Las Vegas.

Streamlining Expenses Will Suck For Las Vegas Visitors

All businesses have been reinventing themselves to deal with coronavirus. Every casino operator raves about streamlining expenses during earnings calls. It’s amazing that it took a global pandemic for some to start focusing on reducing expenses.

Companies like MGM Resorts were already starting to use automation to replace humans and that will continue and expand to other operators. The MGM 2020 plan will continue and the move to digital will continue.

Boyd Gaming and other companies are stoked at how well they’ve done focusing on profitable customers while reducing efforts to less profitable guests.

Players club deals and benefits will shrink for bargain hunters that just visit casinos because they’re so inexpensive. I look at this similar to how drink monitoring systems impact bartop video poker.

Some people won’t be able to get comp drinks for minimal money spent. This doesn’t hurt me much since I usually max bet and play at a decent speed. Other players can’t get comp drinks by playing quarter hands at a snail’s pace anymore. I expect the same from other parts of the casino.

Cost-cutting is like a drug for bean counters. Expect the trend of reducing expenses to continue in Las Vegas. The real impact won’t take place until business bounces back so enjoy the deals while you can.

Image Credit (2021): Jude Beck on Unsplash

The post ???? 2021 | Las Vegas Predictions appeared first on TravelZork.

Vegas News | The Mirage Closing, Rio Is Open, Circa’s Legacy Club Coming Very Soon

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 07:53:00 GMT

Vegas News December 27, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Another week of casino openings and closings in Las Vegas. Let’s start the week with an opening before we get to the “Mirage Closing” news. RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino is now open. The hotel is only taking weekend reservations for the time being. The casino and some amenities will be open seven days a week. You can see specifics here.

Mirage Closing EVERYTHING – January 4th

The Linq, Mandalay Bay, Park MGM, Planet Hollywood, and The Mirage are on a similar schedule as Rio. The latter will change hours next year. Starting January 4th, The Mirage will close everything. The casino, hotel, bars, restaurants, etc., will all be closed. According to the Las Vegas Sun, MGM Resorts doesn’t expect this to last beyond February. Also, to be clear, this entire closure at Mirage will be from noon Mondays until noon Thursdays.

The hotel and restaurants at Encore are closed during weekdays. The hotel at The Palazzo is closed temporarily. The restaurants are still open if you’re still craving a plate of meat from Majordomo at The Palazzo.

Recent Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program
Casino Loyalty ‘Scoop
[Some Surprises?] CAESARS REWARDS Extending Tier Status For MOST
Eldorado and Caesars Status Matching – mostly done right, worth it?

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Las Vegas Quick Hits

Keeping track of casino openings and closings in Las Vegas isn’t fun, but the information is useful. It is also distressing to see Mirage Closing the entire resort midweek. I’m hoping the Cosmopolitan stays open in January. I have my first room reservation at my favorite casino on the Vegas Strip in years.

I’ll be wining and dining on the terrace at night while working inside the room during the day. I might eat at a restaurant if it means FREE WINE. There may actually be some gambling if the casino is as quiet as I’m expecting. I can’t wait!

On to the rest of the Vegas News!

Photo Credit: Circa Las Vegas LEGACY CLUB

The Legacy Club at Circa is taking reservations. The pictures are beautiful. I can’t wait to check it out next year. You can see more pics here and the press release here.
Wynn Rewards is finally live in Las Vegas. You can read the press release without much information here. The Wynn Rewards page on the Wynn Las Vegas website actually has useful information.
M life Rewards Points and comps expiration has been extended until March 31, 2021. See the tweet here.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas — April 2021?

Virgin is sneaky. They haven’t announced an opening date but the header on the website leads me to believe that they’re targeting April.
The Fremont Street Experience will be open on New Year’s Eve and accessible for a $25 “security fee.” Anyone staying at an FSE hotel will receive a wristband and can enter for free. There won’t be any entertainment so you’re essentially paying a cover charge to wander the mall of casinos. Visitors must wear a mask and have to keep a safe distance. You can reserve space and find more info here.
Kevin hit the largest Megabucks jackpot since 2008 on Christmas Eve at the Suncoast. You can read about it here.

MEGABUCKS JACKPOT ALERT!

Congratulations to Kevin for hitting the $15,491,103 Megabucks Progressive Jackpot at @suncoastcasino!#SuncoastCasino #BConnectedWinners #Megabucks #Jackpot #MegabucksJackpot #LasVegasJackpots pic.twitter.com/88t1Ty3S3A
— Suncoast Casino (@suncoastcasino) December 25, 2020

Sharing is caring. I’m far from a vegan but I know a few people that are. You can find some info on the Vegan Vegas here.
Speaking of not being Vegan, a new steakhouse is opening at The Park. Nusret Gökçe aka Salt Bae is spending $4.5 million on the steakhouse. I’m not familiar with his food but the guys in the video in this article at Eater are having a great time at his spot. I like steak and fun.
Uh oh. There’s a problem with the roller coaster at New York-New York. At least they caught the problem during testing. Read more here.
The NHL season will start on Jan. 13. Read more about the next season for the Vegas Golden Knights here.
It shouldn’t be a surprise that the first show that should reopen in Las Vegas is the most popular. Word is “O” at Bellagio will be the first show to return to Las Vegas stages next year. Read more here.
Great news from JSX. The semi-private airline will continue to fly into John Wayne Airport in CA. The company is also moving its Las Vegas location. Also, see: Flying to/from Las Vegas on Semi-Private Airline JSX Lives Up To The Hype.

Flying into or out of #LasVegas with us? We’ve moved! Our new, larger JSX lounge is located at: 5616-A Haven St., Las Vegas, NV 89119. As a reminder, due to limited space, self parking is not available. Valet is available for $22 per day. #flyjsx #hopon pic.twitter.com/0OI4S5luzj
— JSX (@flyjsx) December 21, 2020

Ever want to go to a restaurant that serves hot dogs and doughnuts? You’ll be in luck soon, Mochinut is opening next year in Chinatown. Read more here.
The first cannabis speakeasy is open at ReLeaf just off the Vegas Strip. This is the first place where you’ll be able to buy and smoke inside the same building. You can read about it here and find more info here.
Sugar Factory is replacing Twin Peaks at Harmon Corner next to Planet Hollywood. Read more here.
CBS News has a 30-minute story about Las Vegas dealing with coronavirus. You can watch “Reverb: Losing Las Vegas” here.
It looks like the possibility of a new casino from the Marnell family in Henderson is progressing. Read more here.
The Big West Conference is moving its Men’s and Women’s basketball tournaments to Mandalay Bay. Read more here.
X burlesque will return to the Flamingo Las Vegas starting Jan. 7. Read more here.

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Vegas News | The Pause Continues!

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 07:00:00 GMT

Vegas News December 20, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

The Pause – Las Vegas

Last Sunday afternoon, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak extended the statewide pause (“The Pause”) for a month to help slow the spread of coronavirus. This means that nothing will change for anyone visiting casinos, bars, or restaurants.

Capacity Limited – Remember Bars

Capacity at all venues will remain limited. You’ll have to make reservations for a full-service restaurant. However, you can just slide up to a bar and eat without a reservation if you just want a quick bite inside of a restaurant. Quick-serve restaurants and food courts should still be open for anyone.

Essentially, Las Vegas will be the same for the next month as it’s been for the past month and most of the year. Life around casinos is slower overall – especially during weekdays. Vegas will continue to be somewhat busier when visitors drive in for the weekend.

Be Sure To Also See:
[UPDATED] Vegas is open again, but is it worth the visit?

Las Vegas – “Make Your Own Fun”

It seems as though Las Vegas will be fairly busy by 2020 standards from Christmas Day to New Year’s Day. Expect January to be a ghost town. If you like to make your own fun, this could be a good time to visit if you’re looking for a nice chill getaway.

The local ABC TV station has a list of things you can do on New Year’s Eve in Vegas. Sure, there won’t be as many people in Las Vegas as in previous years for New Year’s Eve but parts of the Vegas Strip will be closed to vehicular traffic as usual.

The newspaper says hotel room rates are higher than in recent months due to higher than usual 2020 demand. The prices aren’t crazy as in previous years but they’re more than you’ve probably seen advertised most of the year.

Quick Hits: Show update

Not much to say here but I thought I’d group show notes together.

Piff The Magic Dragon is back at Flamingo. Tape Face is back at Harrah’s. Read more here.
Absinthe is closed for now. Read more here.
The Brad Garrett Comedy Club at MGM Grand will be back on December 26. See the tweet here for more info.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Las Vegas “The Pause” Quick Hits

We’re entering what’s typically a slow news period while everyone gets into holiday and vacation mode. That doesn’t mean there’s nothing happening, but there’s less than usual (and “The Pause”). Funk that! We got the goods right here!

The Vegas Strip continues to pander to the most common visitors. Construction on the Olive Garden near Park MGM is back on. This will be located near the new Target. There are plenty of people that love familiar brand names so this should do well. If you’re like me and don’t like this kind of chain restaurant, you don’t have to go. There are plenty of good Italian restaurants in Las Vegas.
Wynn dropped a press release for the new Wynn Rewards program this week. According to the RJ says it will actually be operational this week. On a related note, the Venetian’s changeover to a new Grazie rewards program we shared last week is now official.
IGT released a new electronic table game called Dynasty Peak Terminal. The video below of the roulette game was shot at Circa. This is the first time I’ve seen a 000 roulette electronic table game. It appears as though all other roulette games at Circa are double zero. You can check out a preview of the machine below.

The Department of Hawaiian Homelands is proposing to build a casino in Kapolei. There could be a decision later this week. This would be bad news for Boyd Gaming and its downtown properties that depend on visitors from Hawaii.
Construction on the Raiders restaurant and bar at M Resort is back on. It was supposed to open in time for the Las Vegas Raiders first season but that didn’t happen. You can read about it here. On a related note, there was supposed to be a Buffalo Wild Wings built at Mandalay Bay in time for the season. I’m told we should hear more about MGM Resorts’ partnership with Buffalo Wild Wings next year.
Hey, want to blow up a casino? Head to New Jersey! Read more here.
Here’s a strange deal but it actually makes sense with casinos looking for more regional guests who are driving to Las Vegas instead of flying. MGM Resorts has partnered with Fuelster to deliver gas directly to a guest’s car. The Fuelster website says “You pay the same as the lowest price of the nearest gas station.” It doesn’t appear as though the partnership offers a discount but the service seems useful for someone who’d rather get one last roll at the craps table instead of driving over to a gas station.
Virgin Hotels Las Vegas doesn’t have an opening date but they have uniforms! Check em out.

Our uniforms will make their own statement.

Our front-of-house uniforms were created to be relaxed, yet fashionable. Comfortable, yet chic. Unique, yet simply an extension of the #VirginHotelsLV vibe. https://t.co/zKooTVcjRd pic.twitter.com/qUmqSUFoKB
— Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (@VirginHotelsLV) December 14, 2020

The Megabucks jackpot is currently greater than $15 million. This is its highest total since 2012. Read more here.
HEYO! It’s time for another Boring update! Enjoy.
The Fremont Street Experience is 25 years old! They’ll celebrate next year possibly before it’s been around 26 years. See the tweet here.
Have $300 million laying around? You can buy a huge plot of land near McCarran Airport. Check out the real estate listing here.

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Vegas News | Lots of Casino Loyalty Updates and Something’s Brewing in Henderson

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 22:31:04 GMT

Vegas News December 13, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Casino Loyalty Updates

TravelZork is a unique website. It captures casino news with a focus on loyalty programs to maximize your visits. Next year should be a busy year for this website as there will be multiple new casino rewards programs to dissect. We are looking forward to lots of casino loyalty updates in 2021.

Resorts World – Mohegan – Virgin
Casino Loyalty Updates

Resorts World and Mohegan Sun will debut next year. Mohegan Sun already has details on Momentum Rewards benefits in Las Vegas. We looked at some interesting nuggets about the program back in October.

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas has pushed back the opening date from January 15. We’ll probably dive deeper into the Mohegan Sun Casino loyalty program when the opening gets closer.

Resorts World Las Vegas hasn’t revealed details about its loyalty program yet. This will probably be revealed next year. In the meantime, you can see maps of the meeting spaces here. Only sharing that since you probably haven’t ventured beyond the main hotel and casino features.

Wynn Rewards – Launching December 21, 2020

Venetian – Wynn
Casino Loyalty Updates

Earlier this week, Steve shared a link to the new brochure for The Venetian (and The Palazzo) Grazie loyalty program. The old Grazie program is still active if you’d like to compare the two. The first thing I noticed was an additional tier level with the new program.

I love the restaurants at The V and The P but rarely gamble here anymore. This reminds me that was a visit to Las Vegas years ago where I played blackjack with a professional basketball player at The V. Ahhhh, the good ole days.

Wynn Las Vegas is also changing its loyalty program from the current Red Card to Wynn Rewards. The newspaper says it will happen this month which means it should be live in the next few weeks.

Wynn Rewards is a tiered loyalty program. It’s been available at Encore Boston Harbor since opening. You can find it here if you want to take a peek.

Club One Players Club
Casino Loyalty Updates

A different loyalty program change didn’t receive much publicity when it was revealed. The Club One Players Club (strange to repeat club here but I’m sure there’s a reason) received a makeover in time for the opening of Circa. Most people know this loyalty program from The D and Golden Gate casinos.

Next year should bring even more loyalty club changes. Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program will likely see an update when it’s completely linked with Eldorado Resorts customers. Merging the two programs entirely should be complete by the summer.

Some other Las Vegas casinos might change their loyalty programs next year. This has been a rough year for business at Las Vegas casinos. It wouldn’t be too surprising to see some cutbacks or benefit reductions. This is just speculation as casinos look for ways to maximize revenue.

Henderson Quick Hits

Depending on where you’re located, Henderson is about 10 miles from the Vegas Strip. Some of you may be familiar with Henderson already. It’s the home town of Green Valley Ranch, M Resort, and South Point casinos.

We don’t talk about this part of town much because it’s outside of the main tourist areas of the Vegas Strip and downtown. A few weeks ago we shared some details on the Henderson Silver Knights hockey Jerseys.

This week there’s more happening in Henderson than usual and that stands out.

Marnell Gaming is looking to buy land to build a new casino-resort in Henderson. If the name sounds familiar, this is the same family that built M Resort which is little south of the land Marnell is looking to buy. Read more here.
Boyd Gaming agreed to sell Eldorado casino in Henderson this week. This isn’t much of a surprise based on recent earnings calls. On the surface, this is a small locals joint in the burbs. However, it could become an entry point for a new sportsbook operator looking to do business in Nevada.
CDC Gaming ponders if this could lead the way to more casino sales next year. We know Caesars is looking to sell at least one casino. It wouldn’t be a surprise if other casino operators sold a property or two.
Rumor of the week: Las Vegas Locally is sharing a rumor that Bruno Mars is a silent partner in the Eldorado casino purchase. I look forward to his residency moving to Henderson from the Vegas Strip someday so he can drive traffic to his casino.
Bill Foley, the owner of the Vegas Golden Knights, wants to bring an indoor lacrosse team to Las Vegas. He says the team would play its home games in a new arena being built in Henderson. Read/see more here.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Las Vegas Quick Hits

The week was chock full of Vegas News. Here’s a variety of news you can use. Make sure you get to the end. The last story will always make me chuckle.

The Bellagio holiday display at the Conservatory and Botanical Garden is up. We’ve seen much of this before but it’s still my favorite of the year. Read more here.
New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas will be very different this year. Read more here.
Here is your almost weekly Boring update.
Caesars updated its app this week so you can make restaurant reservations. This seems like a groundbreaking addition (that’s sarcasm). Read more here.
Vegas related: Caesars is rebranding Harrah’s New Orleans to Caesars New Orleans. New Caesars should be changing the names of more properties around the country next year. Read more about New Orleans here.
Here’s a long Twitter thread about the Vegas Golden Knights and 2021 NHL season after an interview with owner Bill Foley.
Absinthe at Caesars Palace Las Vegas might have to close if the show can’t host more than 50 people. Read more here.
Downtown Grand only has table games open on the weekend for the time being. Read more here.
8 East at Circa now has a happy hour. This could make for a nice early dinner or late lunch. See the menu here.
Former Raiders linebacker Vontaze Burfict was arrested and accused of hitting a security guard at the Cosmopolitan because he couldn’t find Secret Pizza. Seriously. Read more here.

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9 Casino Tweets You Missed This Week – More Vegas Hotel Closures

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 23:50:28 GMT

Casino Tweets You Missed This Week

In the week that Plaza Las Vegas announced redeveloping the bus station and more Vegas hotel closures, TravelZork brings you the top 9 casino tweets you missed this week.

More Vegas Hotel Closures

Plaza Las Vegas announced exciting plans this week to redevelop the building that currently houses the Greyhound bus station. They will also partner with the city of Las Vegas to build an elevated pedestrian pathway connecting Plaza Las Vegas to Symphony Park.

Elsewhere, Bellagio transformed their Conservatory and Botanical Gardens into a whimsical winter wonderland; Palazzo, Mirage, and Mandalay Bay all announced Vegas hotel closures; and Red Card is becoming Wynn Rewards.

There has been a bit of discussion about Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program Diamond Status Extensions for those interested in casino loyalty perks. You can follow along with the latest updates on Twitter, and be sure to refer to this week’s article for some insight and commentary.

1. Plaza is redeveloping the bus station

We are excited to announce plans to 1) redevelop the building that currently houses the Greyhound bus station. And 2) partner with the city of Las Vegas to build an elevated pedestrian pathway connecting the Plaza to Symphony Park.https://t.co/5EXQuPCrN7
— Plaza Hotel Casino (@PlazaLasVegas) December 9, 2020

2. The season that sparkles is here!

The season that sparkles is here! Watch as the magic of Hopeful Holidays comes to life in our Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.

Learn more: https://t.co/BkAOMrP4Dv pic.twitter.com/O2iUAkNKxm
— Bellagio Las Vegas (@Bellagio) December 7, 2020

3. The Palazzo Tower is closed (for now) – Vegas Hotel Closures

The hotel tower had stopped accepting weekday reservations in July, and will now be closed seven days a week effective immediately. https://t.co/V8LsrgPXwk
— Las Vegas Review-Journal (@reviewjournal) December 8, 2020

4. Nobu will be back at Virgin

"We're back and we're better".@NobuWorldwide, the finest in traditional Japanese cooking from Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, will be returning to #VirginHotelsLV with fresh décor and an expanded bar area. #NobuVHLV pic.twitter.com/hwW4K7Sigw
— Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (@VirginHotelsLV) December 3, 2020

5. Bang Bar is coming!

Appears wing place in Cosmo's Block 16 food court will be replaced by Bang Bar from David Chang (Momofuku). Menu will have spit-roasted meats wrapped in bang bread, whatever that might actually be. Opens spring 2021.
— Vital Vegas (@VitalVegas) December 2, 2020

6. Red Card is becoming Wynn Rewards

Everything you need to know about @WynnLasVegas’ new Tiers as Red Card becomes Wynn Rewards pic.twitter.com/sgST7QZ0za
— Las Vegas UK (@LasVegasUK) December 2, 2020

7. Mandalay Bay and Mirage will close their hotel towers midweek

ICYMI: Hotel towers at both Mandalay Bay and The Mirage will close mid-week effective Nov. 30, MGM Resorts said. https://t.co/wOEbtBihR3
— FOX5 Las Vegas (@FOX5Vegas) November 27, 2020

8. Zumanity has closed for good

Sad to report that #Zumanity at @NYNYVegas has closed.

Daniel Lamarre: “We are forever grateful to the extraordinarily talented cast, crew and staff who helped make Zumanity an unforgettable experience for more than 7.25 million guests.”@Cirque pic.twitter.com/uOXuzixgVi
— Vegas Revealed (@vegasrevealed) November 16, 2020

9. Every bar and restaurant that opened in Vegas: 2020 edition

Every restaurant and bar that opened in Las Vegas: 2020 edition. https://t.co/lSOp6zqHrz
— Eater Vegas (@EaterVegas) December 9, 2020

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[Some Surprises?] CAESARS REWARDS Extending Tier Status For MOST

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 22:09:37 GMT

CAESARS REWARDS Extending Tier

The rumors have been circulating. With a sigh of relief, people have been informed and have been discussing how their Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program will be extending tier status. Many in the miles&points travel loyalty world have started to discuss Caesars Rewards Extending Tier Status. It all just seemed so clear and transparent.

Per the Caesars Rewards Website Questions page it is pretty simple and clear

Have you extended 2020 Tier status?
“Yes. Customers who have status in 2020 will have that status and its associated benefits extended until January 31, 2022 giving you more time to enjoy what you have earned.“
Direct Quote On Status Extension From The Caesars Rewards Website

The Q&A page deals with most of the issues people are concerned with. It is probably worth a quick look.

Caesars Rewards Status Questions – Caesars Rewards Website Questions page

What About Matched Status – Caesars Rewards?

About a week ago, I floated the idea that it was quite odd that Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program had extended the expiry date for some cards until January 31, 2022 (as they say they will on their website) – but other cards (such as purely status matched cards) were still showing an expiry of January 31, 2021.

Is Caesars Rewards extending tier for everyone? Just like that? Everyone who currently has Diamond Status? It sure seems like that was the wisdom and narrative being shared.

I floated this thought in a tweet since it seemed somewhat strange to me. However, loyalty programs and IT are not always so robust. Nothing surprises me, and this was not the biggest surprise.

This also seems to be consistent if you get your (physical) card re-printed at a property. So, what does “HAVE STATUS” mean? Have any “status match folks” had their expiry adjusted to 2022? Why would there be a delay or difference? (earned versus status match?) @LasVegasUK
— ᴛʀᴀᴠᴇʟᴢᴏʀᴋ (@TravelZork) December 2, 2020

Is February 1st, 2021 The Date
For (Partner) Matched Status To Update?

After my tweet and also some quality banter and discussion in the TravelZork Facebook Group I just figured that it was an “IT Issue” and that all of the matched status folks would be upgraded (upgraded = new expiry of January 31, 2022) on the 1st of February 2021.

To clarify, and provide background there was a super generous status match from Wyndham that allowed you to match numerous programs to Wyndham Diamond and then match your Wyndham Diamond to Caesars Diamond (since Wyndham and Caesars are strategic loyalty partners).

Match to Caesars Diamond

Many people took advantage of this to obtain Caesars Diamond Status. Since the Wyndham Match is now gone (for the most part), many were hoping that because of 2020 status extensions due to COVID-19, their Caesars Status (for most, this was Diamond Status) that expired January 31, 2021, would be extended to January 31, 2022.

In addition, many have claimed they were advised by Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program that the matched statuses would be upgraded, just not right now.

Once again, I still found it quite strange that the “matched status” folks were showing an expiry of 2021 whereas those with earned status were showing an expiry of 2021. I actually even took the time to share both the online and physical cards to further visualize this point.

Status Levels and Expiry Online

Status Levels and Expiry – Physical Cards

Mlife (M life) Rewards Status Match

Just a side note, Mlife Rewards seems to be adjusting status match folks to January 2022 expiry. I was able to confirm this myself. I do not currently see any difference between earned and matched Mlife status with regard to expiry dates being provided.

A Very Innocent Inquiry – Caesars Tier Status

I decided to inquire about Caesars Tier Status. Mostly because I believed that earned status for 2020 (i.e. you earned the status in 2020) should be extended to January 31, 2023. I figured, if those with status in 2020 were being extended to January 31, 2022 then those that EARNED IN 2020 should at least get some logical further extension.

It seems, at this point all status folks who are being extended are being extended until January 31, 2022. But, I also specifically inquired about the status of those who were matched to Caesars Diamond. The response was a bit of a shock, and contradictory to everything I had heard or been advised by others.

I tried to be as clear and direct as possible with my question. My question was:
“My friend was status matched to Diamond and has Diamond Status for all of 2020 (expiring in January 31 2021) – even if he is STATUS MATCHED, will his extension (Diamond Status) be extended to January 31, 2022?”

The response from Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program specifically addressed partner programs that had matched to Caesars Rewards. I also emphasize the fact they mentioned partner programs aka “one of our partners.”

“In regard to the status matched accounts, Members who were Tier Matched through one of our partners do not qualify for the extension. Please let us know if we could be of further assistance.”
Caesars Rewards Response to Tier Matches for Partner Programs

Caesars Partner Matches Will NOT Be Extended?

So, will Caesars Partner Matches be extended to January 31, 2022? Will they be extended the same way the earned Caesars Status (earned in 2019) will be extended to January 31, 2022?

Honest Answer – I Really Am Not Sure

Honestly, I am not 100% sure. Perhaps, I am misreading or misinterpreting something. Perhaps, this Caesars Representative is mistaken?

I refuse to say anything is definitive until I see the terms and conditions updated on the Caesars website. Or perhaps, until Caesars Rewards updates their FAQ section on tier status.

For now, be aware. Perhaps, there is a reason that the expiry dates on Caesars Rewards Cards have not been adjusted. Also, do we really know the “exact” meaning of “Tier Matched through one of our partners?”

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Vegas News | Virgin Pushed Back Again, Plaza Redeveloping, And More

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 14:15:00 GMT

Vegas News December 6, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

You Are Gonna Have To Wait For Virgin

This week is mostly “quick hits” format, with some really awesome news about Plaza Redeveloping. We weren’t surprised when Virgin Hotels Las Vegas pushed its opening date back to January. We’re not surprised that the opening is being pushed back again.

There’s no timeline of when conventions or entertainment will return to Las Vegas. There’s not much of a reason for a hotel to open that is depending on customers visiting for one of those reasons. The opening is now TBA. You can find quotes from Virgin here.

NYE News and Plaza Redeveloping

The Fremont Street Experience will not have its annual New Year’s Eve block party. Unless casinos are forced to close down, expect people to be out anyway. Read and watch more here. The Plaza is still planning on having a New Year’s Eve fireworks show if you’re in town.

While we’re discussing the Plaza, the property made a huge announcement this week. The Greyhound bus station will close next year and be redeveloped. Additionally, a pedestrian bridge will be built that will connect to Symphony Park on the other side of the train tracks. Expect to hear more about both of these next year.

Monolith

While we’re downtown, have you see the monolith? You can read about the mysterious object that was possibly left on earth by aliens here.

Fridays in Vegas always bring surprises. Did anyone call this one? #Monolith pic.twitter.com/BRVhITrlpX
— Circa Las Vegas (@CircaLasVegas) December 4, 2020

Caesars Sports App – EARN POINTS

Caesars has a new sports betting app. The Caesars Sports app is pretty much the same as the William Hill app with one major difference. The app is linked to the Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program. Bettors will get 1 reward credit and 1 tier credit for every $10 wagered.

Another difference but not such a big deal is that you can now fund a William Hill account or a Caesars Sports account at Caesars casinos in Nevada. The odds are the same in both apps. This is only available in Nevada for the time being. I should have a review posted elsewhere during the week if you’re looking for a lot of words with details.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Bad News: Scuba Santa isn’t appearing at Silverton this year. Good news: Santa is safe behind plexiglass at the Big Bass Pro Shop attached to the casino. You can find more info here.
Golden Nugget owner Tilman Fertitta is considering (and will probably) take his casinos and restaurants public. This isn’t much of a surprise as his restaurant business has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. This offering would not include Golden Nugget online gaming which is going public separately. On top of this, he just traded Russell Westbrook from the Houston Rockets for John Wall formerly of the Washington Wizards. Read more here about IPO. Read this to learn more about the trade.
As you probably know, the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) isn’t taking place in Las Vegas this year. However, the event is still happening. Resorts World Las Vegas is showing the rodeo on the 100,000-square-foot West Tower LED screen. You can read about it here.
If you don’t feel like standing outside to watch the rodeo, you can catch a stream at Treasure Island. Find more info, including a reservation link, here. Remember, you have to make a reservation at full-service restaurants in Las Vegas.
Forbes has much more information about the passing of Tony Hseih. It’s worth the time if you’re remotely familiar with the man. Check it out here.

Tunnel Rave pic.twitter.com/d3JKOIAsy7
— The Boring Company (@boringcompany) December 4, 2020

Las Vegas – Boring Update

Time for another Boring update: The company received approval to expand to the Encore tower at Wynn. The company also shared a video rendering of a passenger station. You can read more here or just look at the pretty lights below.

MORE LAS VEGAS QUICK HITS!

Dino’s Lounge is suing so people can sing karaoke. Read more here.
The Block 16 Food Hall at Cosmopolitan is losing one quick-serve restaurant and gaining another. First, it was announced that Pok Pok Wing will be closing. I thought it was already closed since its other locations closed earlier this year. A day after Pok Pok announced it was closing, the Cosmopolitan released info that it will add David Chang’s Bang Bar next year. This sounds like a fantastic way to eat his delicious meats without paying the high prices of Major Domo at The Venetian. You can read more about Bang Bar here.
Here’s an interesting article about MGM Resorts’ poker room design.
MGM Resorts sold $700 million worth of its equity in MGM Growth Partners. MGM has discussed selling down some of its control of the REIT during its past couple of earnings calls. Read more here.
Chickie’s & Pete’s was supposed to open at Sahara in time for football season this year. Well, the timeline has shifted and the new restaurant row on the Vegas Strip is scheduled to open next year. You can see the press release here.
Here’s another bit of news that isn’t a surprise. The Las Vegas Bowl won’t be played this year. Read more here.
You may soon be able to get booze delivered from one of your favorite 3rd party delivery apps. Right now, liquor stores have to deliver the goods themselves. While this is great, there’s usually a high minimum for delivery. Read more here.
A few shows are going dark this month. Who knew that coronavirus would make Las Vegas feel like Atlantic City where everything has limited hours or closes in December. Read more here.
Looks like there could be a new BBQ joint opening in downtown Las Vegas. Read more here.

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Atlantic City December 2020 | Governor issues more mandates to help curb COVID-19

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 22:38:00 GMT

TravelZork Atlantic City – News, Promotions and Events

Atlantic City December 2020

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order last month extending the public health emergency, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The order originally was declared on March 9.

Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed. “Despite the hope that is on the horizon, the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over,” said Murphy. “We continue to utilize all resources available and will need the ability to do so as we battle this virus through the second wave that has enveloped our nation and our state.”

In addition, Murphy has ordered bars, restaurants and nightclubs to halt indoor dining from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. “We need to change our mindset, we have to shake off the pandemic fatigue that we all feel,” Murphy said. Takeout and outdoor dining may continue past 10 p.m., Murphy said, but no bar-side seating is allowed. Another change allows restaurants to seat tables closer than six feet apart if they erect a barrier.

He also said that all indoor interstate athletic events will be prohibited. “This is not forever and always,” he said. “We basically have a six-month window to beat the virus into the ground.” During the hours they are allowed to be open, bars and restaurants will still be subject to indoor dining restrictions limiting capacity to 25 percent.

For more information and details about COVID-19 in Atlantic City casinos, click here.

Bally’s is sold to Bally’s

Bally’s Corp. officially completed its $25 million purchase of Bally’s Atlantic City on Wednesday, Nov. 18. The company acquired the 1,251-room hotel-casino from Caesars Entertainment Inc. and VICI Properties, with Caesars collecting 25 percent of the proceeds, and the real estate investment trust earning 75 percent. In October, the then-Twin River Worldwide Holdings Inc. paid Caesars $20 million for control of the Bally’s name, brand and intellectual property.

The corporate name change took effect on Nov. 9. Eventually, the company will operate 14 casinos in 10 states, with many of the casinos rebranded as Bally’s properties. As for Bally’s Atlantic City, the company has an agreement with FanDuel to host a sportsbook inside the property. The deal also includes three sports betting and five iGaming skins in New Jersey. Bally’s has entered into partnerships with Esports Entertainment Group and Sporttrade Inc. for sports betting skins, and PointsBet and theScore for iGaming skins. Bally’s also will reserve skins for its own use.

Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program cardholders still can use their Reward Credits and Celebration Dinners, and take advantage of free play and gift offers, as well as other benefits at Bally’s. According to a Bally’s Corp. spokesperson, “Bally’s Atlantic City will continue to be a part of Caesars Rewards for the foreseeable future and Bally’s customers will continue to earn and redeem Reward Credits and tier credits. At this time, we do not have an official timeline to share, but expect the property’s transition out of Caesars Rewards to be completed sometime in Q1 of 2021.

More information on the transition will be communicated to Bally’s customers over the coming months.” The only restrictions are that you no longer can sign charges from purchases at Bally’s, e.g., dinner at Guy Fieri’s Chophouse, to your room if you’re staying at Caesars Atlantic City or Harrah’s Resort. Conversely, if you’re staying at Bally’s, you cannot sign charges from Caesars or Harrah’s. In addition, keep in mind that the Wild Wild West Casino is now part of Caesars, not Bally’s. Consequently, if you download free play at a Promotional Kiosk at Bally’s, you can play it only at Bally’s, not the Wild Wild West.

Good sports

Now that the sale is finalized, FanDuel and Bally’s Corp. will open an in-person sportsbook at Bally’s. Once that occurs, all nine Atlantic City casinos will have on-location sportsbooks. FanDuel told The Associated Press that it plans to have a temporary sports betting facility in the casino before the end of the year, and will build a permanent sportsbook in the center of the casino floor next spring.

Toy story

Through Monday, Dec. 7, bring a new unwrapped toy to the Caesars Rewards Center at Tropicana or make a $5 donation for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card. Receive one entry for every toy or $5 donation. Drawing will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 8. Winners will be contacted directly and have until Wednesday, Dec. 30, to claim their prizes.

I’ll drink to that!

Master of Whisky Kevin Loser will host a five-course dinner at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10. He will taste through the unique flavors and traditions of Japanese whisky. Tickets cost $125 per person.

Class act

Hard Rock is conducting a “Coming Home For the Holidays” pastry class at noon on Saturday, Dec. 12. Learn how to make Christmas Peppermint Flan, Christmas Fudge, Pecan Butterball Cookies and Yule Logs. Tickets cost $35 per person.

Something fishy

Hard Rock’s Sushi School is back by popular demand at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 27. Taught by Kuro’s Executive Sushi Chef Shingo Inoue, this class will teach guests the proper skills to make their own sushi. Small bites from Kuro will complement the lesson. Tickets cost $55 per person.

For more information and to purchase tickets for the dinner and the classes click here.

High-Limit Slot Experience

Ocean Casino Resort began construction last month on a new High-Limit Slot Experience with a combination of more than 140 classic games and new video reel products such as “Lightning Cash,” “Dragon Cash,” “Dollar Storm” and “Cash Link.” Adjacent to the Box Office, the area will feature dedicated cocktail service with enhanced beverage selections, private restrooms, and a cage exclusively for guests playing in this section. Look for an opening early next month.

Ocean Casino Resort debuts six new slots

Ocean Casino Resort is the first in the Northeast to debut six new “All Aboard” slot machines, featuring the base games “Dynamite Dash” and “Piggy Pennies.” Within hours of launching its new slots, Ocean had its first jackpot winner of $22,127. The winning did not end there. Two more jackpot winners hit for $15,463 and $15,237, respectively. According to materials provided to the media, “Players ride the rails for a symbol-driven linked progressive jackpot plus a boxcar full of credit prizes with ‘Stay & Spin’ credit-collect bonus action.”

Smoothie operator

For guests looking for a healthy beverage, Ocean has opened Juice Bar, a new smoothie and juice bar, on the lobby level.

Play and you will receive

Resorts Casino Hotel’s Epic Star cardholders now need to earn only three tier points to receive cashback. Previously they had to earn 10. Cashback is available 72 hours after a trip and can be used in $5 increments.

Jersey lawmakers want to allow college sports betting

Removing a current restriction, New Jersey lawmakers want to amend the state constitution to allow sports betting on all major collegiate games. A bill calling for a public referendum in 2021 was amended Nov. 9 to significantly expand collegiate sports betting in the state.

Current law prohibits betting on college games played anywhere in New Jersey, and it also bans betting on games played in other states involving New Jersey teams. The measure was approved by the Senate Budget Committee, the first of several steps required before it can be placed on next year’s general election ballot.

New Jersey man charged with $1.7M theft outside Bally’s

A former guard and two others stole more than $1.7 million from an armored car parked outside Bally’s Nov. 5. Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner said that Dante McCluney of Newark has been charged with burglary, theft and conspiracy. Two others who participated in the theft have been identified, but are not yet in custody.

The vehicle was owned by Rapid Armored Corp. of Brooklyn, N.Y. Video surveillance footage from the casino revealed three men entering the vehicle and removing what appeared to be bags of cash. The suspects then got into a gray Hyundai sedan and drove away.

McCluney was previously employed by Rapid Armored as an armed guard where he worked the run that serviced Bally’s and became familiar with its timing and procedures, the prosecutor said. An investigation is continuing, and authorities are searching for the two other suspects.

CDC issues new warnings about cruise ship travel

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised its warning for cruise ship travel to “Level 4: Very High Level of Covid-19” Nov. 22. “The CDC recommends that all people avoid travel on cruise ships, including river cruises, worldwide, because the risk of COVID-19 on cruise ships is very high,” the warning states. Although not a total ban on cruising, the Level 4 warning states:

> Cruise passengers are at increased risk of person-to-person spread of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, and outbreaks of COVID-19 have been reported on cruise ships.
> Passengers who decide to go on a cruise should get tested 3 to 5 days after their trip AND stay home for seven days after travel. Even if they test negative, stay home for the full seven days.
> If they don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 14 days after travel.

The CDC’s warning is for U.S. citizens only; in the United Kingdom the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has a warning against ocean cruising only. Meanwhile, cruise lines continue to cancel further and further out into next year in an attempt to put in place the 74 measures demanded by the CDC for a safe return to cruising from U.S. ports. It looks unlikely that cruising will restart from the states in earnest anytime soon.

Resorts to welcome new dining concept

This spring Resorts Casino Hotel will enter into a partnership with the Dougherty family, owners and operators of Dock’s Oyster House and The Knife & Fork Inn.

The Doughertys have been a staple in Atlantic City’s restaurant industry for more than 120 years. The new dining concept will feature a classic steakhouse menu, raw bar and live entertainment, and will replace Gallagher’s Steak House.

For up-to-date information on Atlantic City players lounges and valet parking policies, visit MrACCasino.com.

**Looking ahead (schedules subject to change):**

Jan. 8 to 10: Jam On’s Atlantic City International Motorcycle Show, Showboat
Jan. 9: Charlie Wilson, Borgata
Jan. 29: Sinbad, Borgata
Jan. 30: Dracula, Atlantic City Ballet, Caesars

Here are other “insider” tips about what’s happening in Atlantic City during December:

Bally’s Atlantic City
Promotions
Caesars Rewards cardholders can make weekly picks by choosing which team they think will win in the eligible NFL football games and activate those picks for their chance to win a share of $60,000 in prizes each week. First place winner each week walks away with $20,000 cash. For further details click here.

Boardwalk Hall
Entertainment and Events
“Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood – Stream Of Consciousness” (Dec. 5, 13 and 19). Click here for tickets.
“A (Virtual) Christmas Vacation With the Griswalds: An Evening With Chevy Chase and Beverly D’Angelo” (Dec. 19). Click here for tickets.

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Promotions
Borgata is giving away 777 Bonus Slot Dollars to one winner every seven minutes from noon to 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 14. Insert your Mlife Rewards card into a slot machine or open a table games rating from 10 a.m.to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win. Winners will have 30 minutes to claim their prize at the Mlife Rewards Desk. Winners’ names will be announced overhead and displayed on television screens throughout the casino. Each customer can only win once per event. Must be 21 or older. Valid ID required. Non-transferable. No play required for activation.

Borgata is giving away Bonus Slot Dollars to five players (one from each card tier) every 15 minutes from noon to 7 p,m. on Sunday, Dec. 20. Insert your Mlife Rewards card into any slot machine from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win.

Borgata is giving away 1,500 Bonus Slot Dollars to one winner every 15 minutes from noon to 7 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 21 and 22. Insert your Mlife Rewards card into a slot machine or open a table games rating from 10 a.m.to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win. Winners will have 30 minutes to claim their prize at the M life Rewards Desk. Winners’ names will be announced overhead and displayed on television screens throughout the casino. Each customer can only win once per event. No play required for activation.

Earn 2X Slot Dollars on Thursday, Dec. 24, and 5X Slot Dollars on Friday, Dec. 25. And, from 7 p.m. to midnight, earn 10X Slot Dollars on Saturday, Dec. 26. Must earn a minimum of $4 Slot Dollars.

Borgata is giving away 2,020 Bonus Slot Dollars to one winner every 20 minutes from noon to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31, and 2,121 Bonus Slot Dollars every 21 minutes from noon to 7 p.m. n Friday, Jan. 1. Insert your Mlife Rewards card into a slot machine or open a table games rating from 10 a.m.to 6:30 p.m. for a chance to win. Winners will have 30 minutes to claim their prize at the Mlife Rewards Desk. Winners’ names will be announced overhead and displayed on television screens throughout the casino. Each customer can only win once per event. No play required for activation.

Gold, Platinum and NOIR Mlife Rewards cardholders receive complimentary valet parking every day.

Pick more winning teams than the Borgata Book and win $20 Bonus Slot Dollars. Entries – starting at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays – can be placed at select Sports Betting kiosks, but are limited to one free entry per week. Entries for each week must be placed by 11 a.m. on Sundays. Details at The Borgata.

Caesars Rewards free NFL PickEm CONTEST

Caesars Atlantic City
Promotions
Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program cardholders can make weekly picks by choosing which team they think will win in the eligible NFL football games and activate those picks for their chance to win a share of $60,000 in prizes each week. First place winner each week walks away with $20,000 cash. For further details click here.

Golden Nugget Casino, Hotel & Marina
Entertainment and Events
Orin Swift Virtual Wine Dinner (Dec. 11), $250 (plus tax) per person. For more information or to make a reservation visit Chart House.

Promotions
Earn entries Tuesday, Dec. 1, to Friday, Jan. 1, to win a 2021 BMW 430 Coupe — one entry for every 25 base tier credits (5X bonus entries every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in December). Grand Finale is at 9 p.m. Jan. 1. Must be present to win.

Earn entries Friday, Dec. 25, to Thursday, Dec. 31, for Golden Nugget’s $200,000 Free Play Sweepstakes — one entry for every 25 base tier credits. From 5 to 10 p.m. Dec. 31, 10 players will be selected every 30 minutes to win their share of free play based on their tier level. Must be present to win.

Every Sunday in December (plus Friday and Saturday, Dec. 18 and 19) 24K and Premier 24K Select cardholders receive 2X tier credits, Chairman cardholders get 3X and Elite cardholders get 4X.

Every Monday in December 24K Select cardholders receive 2X comp dollars.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday in December 24K Select cardholders receive 2X tier credits and 2X slot dollars.

Free self-parking continues.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City
Promotions
X and Rock Royalty cardholders can enjoy complimentary drinks at Hard Rock’s new outdoor Balcony Bar.

Hard Rock continues its Wild Card tier match program until further notice. Details here.

Rock Royalty and X cardholders can convert up to 1,000 comp dollars into free play once per day, every day, as long as they maintain a minimum $25 balance.

Free self-parking for Wild Card Rewards cardholders.

Entertainment and Events
Whisky Dinner (Dec. 10), “Motor City Live: A Motown Christmas” [Dec. 11 to 30 (select days and times)]. “Coming Home For the Holidays” pastry class (Dec. 12), Sushi School (Dec. 27). For tickets to the dinner and the classes, click here; for tickets to “A Motown Christmas” visit Ticketmaster.com.

Harrah’s Resort celebrated its 40th anniversary last month. Over the next three years, look for a total of $400 million in capital investments and improvements at Harrah’s, Caesars and Tropicana.

Harrah’s Resort
Promotions
Caesars Rewards cardholders can make weekly picks by choosing which team they think will win in the eligible NFL football games and activate those picks for their chance to win a share of $60,000 in prizes each week. First place winner each week walks away with $20,000 cash. For further details click here.

Ocean Casino Resort
Promotions
Every Friday and Saturday through Dec. 2 from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., two names will be announced every 30 minutes to win $500 free play each.

Free self-parking continues for Ocean Rewards Club Premier cardholders through Thursday, Dec. 31.

Visit the Ocean Rewards Club for details.

Resorts Casino Hotel
Promotions
Play your favorite slots or table games while using your Star Card through 3:55 p.m. Friday, Jan. 1, to earn entries into the 2021 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe drawing at 4 p.m. Jan. 1. For every tier point you earn, you will receive one entry.

Play your favorite slots or table games while using your Star Card through Sunday, Jan. 31, to earn entries into the $35,000 Jackpot Drawings on Saturday, Feb. 27. Earn one entry for every hand-paid taxable jackpot. At the Finale Event from 6 to 10 p.m., one winner of $1,000 in slot cash will be drawn every 10 minutes beginning at 6 p.m. At 10:15 the grand prize of $10,000 will be drawn.

Premiere Star cardholders who earn two tier points during a gaming day park free in the self-park garage at Resorts. Check any promotional kiosk to confirm the points and present a valid Star card at the exit.

Visit the Promotions Booth for details on all promotions.

Tropicana Atlantic City
Entertainment and Events
The holiday season is in full swing at Tropicana with the Holiday Musical Light Show in The Quarter.

AC Jokes comedy club performs live at Kiss Kiss Nightclub nightly at 8 p.m., except Saturdays when showtime is 7 and 9 p.m. Shows last about 90 minutes. For more information and to purchase tickets visit ACJokes.com.

Everything AC Casinos (Atlantic City)
Facebook Group
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The post Atlantic City December 2020 | Governor issues more mandates to help curb COVID-19 appeared first on TravelZork.

Vegas News | Black Friday, Hsieh, COVID And More

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 21:34:32 GMT

Vegas News November 29, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

The big news stories in Las Vegas happened early and late in the week. We’ll start with a quick update from early in the week and move to the news that happened about 14 hours before I sat down to put this together. Plus, do not forget about Vegas Black Friday deals and offers!

Cyber Monday Vegas | Vegas Black Friday | Casino Deals

New COVID-19 Restrictions In Las Vegas

A week ago, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak held a press conference about COVID-19 a couple of days ahead of schedule. He announced a few new restrictions that will last at least three weeks from last Tuesday.

Sisolak will assess Nevada’s virus case numbers and reevaluate if there will be a new for more, less, or the same restrictions moving forward. Michael put together a simple list of the current restrictions. Besides fewer shows, not much will change in casinos or at taverns/bars with video poker.

Some Caesars shows will continue and some will stop. MGM Resorts has put its shows on a three-week hiatus. The reduced capacity from 50% to 25% shouldn’t have much impact on your casino experience. It might be a coincidence that the hotels at The Mirage and Mandalay Bay are now closed midweek.

The weekend crowd in Las Vegas might see some kind of change. I’d chalk up slow traffic on the weekend to being between two major holidays than any restrictions. Two weeks until the Governor speaks on the subject. Talk soon.

My main takeaway is that you should use opentable to make restaurant reservations unless you grab a quick bite at a food court or quick-serve restaurant.

Zappos Founder Tony Hsieh Dead

Tony Hsieh is dead at 46 years old. Hsieh became “Vegas famous” for moving Zappos to downtown Las Vegas and embarking on an effort to revitalize the area for better and worse. His non-gaming companies and culture helped turn “Old Vegas” into “Downtown Vegas.”

This part of Las Vegas is now more than just home to a bunch of old casinos. Between Downtown Container Park, real estate developments, Life Is Beautiful and other Downtown Project businesses the entire downtown Las Vegas area is different than when I moved here.

It’s A Better Place

Many will say it’s a better place. Some will always prefer the old run down vibe. His part of the community was much greater and will have an impact for years to come.

Supporting this City and the people within it, Tony Hsieh changed the landscape of Downtown Las Vegas. Our community will miss him greatly, rest in peace. I will miss him greatly. pic.twitter.com/eWmAvgLyPM
— Derek Stevens (@DerekJStevens) November 28, 2020

I first learned about Hsieh when I was living on the east coast and he was “just” the owner of Zappos. His approach to business was really life-changing (read this thread). I followed his way of thinking well past my years of being a partner in a marketing firm.

Delivering Happiness

His book, Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose, helped shape the way I looked at the way companies operate. Here are a few blurbs from the book if you haven’t read it.

I loved “Old Vegas” and its charm. I love the newer “Downtown Vegas” in a different way. Things change and he helped downtown Vegas grow east and south all the way out to the Arts District where you’ll still find new restaurants and breweries opening.

Old Vegas still exists but you can experience downtown Las Vegas from the shadows of The Strat to beyond Downtown Container Park. Hsieh was a unique personality who helped reshape part of Las Vegas.

Tribute To Hsieh by Stevens

He might not be seen the same way as some of the great casino men of previous years but he did change things in this town. You can see some of his influence in how Derek Stevens runs his downtown Las Vegas casinos. By the time you read this, you’ll probably have read or heard about the tribute to Hsieh lead by Stevens.

One last non-Vegas note: I didn’t realize Hsieh was on the board of directors at JSX. His input might explain why I loved the JSX experience so much earlier this year.

I could go on about Hsieh for hours but I’ll keep this brief(ish). While Las Vegas and the whole world are dealing with COVID-19, I wanted to make sure to carve out a section for a man that helped change Las Vegas.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Quick Hits
+ Vegas Black Friday ‘Scoop

That was a bit heavier than I expected. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. If you weren’t lucky enough to score a $2 bath towel from Target’s Black Friday sale like I was, maybe you’ll enjoy the Vegas Black Friday deals that Michael broke down earlier this week. Let’s get to the rest of the news and rumors from Las Vegas.

Cirque Du Soliel was sold. Former MGM Resorts CEO, Jim Murren, is now on the board of directors. The company is planning on reopening all Las Vegas shows besides Zumanity (already closed for good) as soon as next year. Read more here.
Rumor of the week: Virgin may delay opening again. It makes sense that Virgin would delay the opening since it’s a national hotel chain. The hotel has a customer base all over the world that would need to travel to Las Vegas for either business or pleasure. That might happen someday. Expect to hear something official soon
MGM Resorts renamed the poker room at Bellagio. Bobby’s Room is now known as Legends Room. Read more here. I’m surprised this took so long. The room was named after Bobby Baldwin who left MGM Resorts just over a year ago to work for Drew Las Vegas.
Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa has a popup Christmas bar! Whatever. Someone give me a heads up when they have a popup Chanukah bar with all the Kedem wine I can drink and all the potato latkes I can eat.
You may have seen the Earliest Checkin promotion from Circa as part of the Black Friday deals. They’re allowing anyone who books a room for opening night (12/28) to actually stay at the property for free on 12/26 and 12/27. As you’d imagine, rooms are a bit pricey for opening night but a three for one (or two) deal sounds good. Heads up: When I checked prices earlier this week you had couldn’t book just one night on the 28th. Not sure if that will be the case when you look. (Update: People were able to book one night, after a few “tweaks” by Circa.)
Somehow Resorts World Las Vegas will crush the nightlife world. Read about it here.

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????HOT???? Black Friday 2020 Vegas Deals (Casino Deals and Cyber Monday)

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 06:35:29 GMT

Black Friday Vegas Deals

I do not get particularly excited about any travel or Vegas deals unless they have a huge amount of value proposition. With that being said, many deals for travel during Covid-Times seem to have more flexibility, which is a good thing. Black Friday Vegas Deals and Casino Deals are enjoyable to follow, and I have tried to list a couple with above-average value.

While discussing Black Friday Vegas Deals, if you are interested in non-casino-focused deals and a comprehensive selection of travel deals, I strongly suggest you refer to the master list of travel deals at God Save The Points.

WORK IN PROGRESS
Cyber Monday and Black Friday Vegas and Casino Deals

I plan on updating this article as I notice other decent offers. Some of the best deals “pop-up” as flash sales, or are somewhat hidden from plain sight. Refer back, and note the “updated on” date below. Also, be sure to give any feedback in the comments or tell us about the best deals you have found.

Perhaps, this isn’t really a “master list,” but more so a list of deals that caught my eye.

Full disclosure: some of these deals use affiliate links that pay TravelZork a commission on completed purchases. Other deals (for example: Wynn, Circa, Golden Nugget, Sterling Caviar) are not affiliate links — but decent and important enough to share).

Article Last Updated: 25 November 2020 22:00 PST

Black Friday Vegas – Hotel Deals

Two types of Black Friday Vegas deals excite me, no resort fee deals and suite deals. While room rates in Vegas have plunged during Covid-19 it’s not as common to find a reduction or waiver of the resort fees that can often approach or even be more than the room rate.

Yeah, the rate pricing display contradicts itself. But, Golden Nugget is VERY CLEAR this rate has NO RESORT FEE!

Golden Nugget Las Vegas

This is a pretty amazing deal (called: “The Biggest Deal”) because it has NO RESORT FEE. Besides, it includes a $25 per day resort credit. Considering that the resort fee is usually more than $34 per day, this offer has extreme value. On the lower end of the spectrum, room rates are $49 per night (just under $56 per night). But, don’t forget, your $25 per day resort credit per day. Effectively, you are getting a room with all taxes and fees for $26 a day. This rate is good for booking through December 31st of 2021. That’s right; you can book this deal for the entire 2021 year. Just be sure to reserve by December 4, 2020.

Caesars Properties In Las Vegas

Caesars has rates as low as $29 during their Cyber Sale. Honestly, that is not so exciting unless you have Diamond (or above) Caesars Rewards Loyalty Program Status which gets you a waiver of the resort fee. This can also be accomplished via Status Matching (Hotel to Casino Status, Casino to Casino Status) or by purchasing a FoundersCard Membership. Are you confused about how to obtain casino status? Be sure to visit the TravelZork Facebook Group. We are more than happy to discuss the best approach to obtaining status.

What can be a great opportunity, are some of the Caesars Suite Escapes rates. Since, nothing says Las Vegas like staying in a suite. Not to mention, no city has hotel properties with more suite options at all budget levels. Once again, pay close attention to the resort fees if you can not get them waived.

These are suites at Flamingo Las Vegas – not one of them is a SMOKING SUITE. Great for that “very Vegas” cigar and bourbon party!

You’ll want to focus on CYBER SALE 2020 and also SUITE ESCAPE. Both are good for stays until October 31, 2021. Be sure to book prior to the 7th of December.

Of special mention are the CARIOCA SUITES ($62 !!) with two queen beds at RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. This is a great suite that is larger than 1000 sq/ft with a separate bedroom and two queen beds. Most suites only have one king bed in the bedroom, so this is a great property and a great suite for families.

You can find Caesars Offers on their website at:
All Deals for Caesars Properties That Are Active
Suite Escape Options at RIO

Start the time of your life ahead of time.

Anyone who reserves a room for December 28th can check in as early as 3PM on December 26th.

That’s two extra days, on us.

Book now: https://t.co/wvhV4w6al7 #WorldsEarliestCheckIn #CircaLasVegas pic.twitter.com/pTdHQbvzjB
— Circa Las Vegas (@CircaLasVegas) November 25, 2020

Circa Las Vegas – #WorldsEarliestCheckIn

Circa Las Vegas has a pretty neat promotion. If you book a room for opening night (“the hotel opening night” — December 28th), you get to check-in early. Two days early, wow, that’s some early check-in. As they say, “Start the time of your life ahead of time.” If you missed our vid from (“the casino”) opening night, be sure to check it out and subscribe to our YouTube page.

Wynn Las Vegas | Encore Las Vegas

Not a huge amount of excitement by the Wynn Online Offers. The maximum discount is 40% off Resort Rooms, effective for stays until April 21, 2021. This can be as low as $109 + taxes + fees. Remember, the daily resort fee for this property is a steep $45+tax. Want a better option for Wynn? Submit a request via TravelZork Travel for a Wynn stay with extra luxury benefits.

Cosmopolitan Las Vegas – BOGO Deal

Cosmo has a promotion featuring buy one night, get one night free. This offer needs to be booked by December 1st and is good for travel through February 28, 2021. I am not going to mention resort fees again, but be aware.

“The Cosmopolitan presents the Meet Curiosity Halfway offer featuring a Buy One Night, Get One Night On Us deal for a multitude of room types ranging from approachable luxury to suites with private terraces and breathtaking skyline views. The coveted BOGO limited time offer is perfect for a winter retreat or holiday gifting for a friend as travelers can enjoy a variety of elevated experiences, the resort’s world-renowned Restaurant Collection, the iconic rooftop Ice Rink, and more.”

Station Casinos

There is a multitude of offers at Station Casinos. What is most interesting to me personally are the “suite deals.” These deals are offered on select suites at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa and Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa & Casino. You will have to “hunt” for some of the best deals, and also be aware of resort fees. Ok, I lied, I mentioned resort fees again.

Las Vegas Cyber Sale
-Up to 40% off Las Vegas Rooms
-Up to $50 Dining Credit Per Stay
-50% Off Suite Upgrade Rates*
Stay Nov. 25, 2020 – March 31, 2021

Luxury Suites Cyber Sale
-Up to 40% off Luxury Suite
-$250 Dining Credit Per Stay
-Roundtrip Airport Transportation
-VIP Check-In
-Butler Service
-Welcome Amenity
Stay Nov. 25, 2020 – March 31, 2021

Black Friday – Other Deals

30% Off – Black Friday – Robert Graham

Robert Graham 30% off – No Exclusions
+ Free Bandana Facemask Offer

Everyone needs a “Vegas shirt.” I have always loved Robert Graham. They also have a pretty exceptional “no exclusions” deal for Black Friday. We know, some of these shirts will cost you more than a week at Flamingo Las Vegas. But, you might find a few discounted “gems” that you can then get another 30% off on. These shirts really do wear well, and I have over a dozen, many that are years old. The t-shirts are also very high quality, though a bit “pricey” for t-shirts.

Of special note is THE #WEARABLEART MASTER ARTISTS SERIES.

“In celebration of our 20th Anniversary, Robert Graham created a capsule collection of sport shirts and more featuring iconic artwork from Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam and LeRoy Neiman. Each style intertwines elements from art world masterpieces with the attention to detail Robert Graham has become synonymous.”
#WEARABLEART

I really love this skeleton head shirt!

I am really in LOVE with the skeleton head silk sport shirt. It’s a Van Gogh original, how can you not love that?

“Limited Edition sport shirt features a crystal-outlined Head of a Skeleton with a Burning Cigarette, originally painted by Van Gogh while studying at the art academy in Antwerp in 1886. The front is equally dramatic with tonal black-on-black embroidery and an Almond Blossom silk jacquard.”

Shop the SALE ITEMS — SURFTOWN T-SHIRT

Sterling Caviar – Yum! – Royal Queen Bundle

Caviar

This is nowhere near as good of a deal that I shared years ago when TravelZork first launched. Sterling Caviar is one of the best farm-raised caviars in the world. I’ve been a fan forever. It is pricey, and they do not discount like they used to. This deal presents some value, but nothing that overexcites me “Buy 3 Royal Caviar (50g) & Get 1 Free Royal Caviar (30g) For Free an $84 Value.” Still, this is never a bad way to celebrate the holiday season.

Interested in caviar and inflight service? Be sure to check out:
First Class Airline Caviar Service – Introduction
First Class Airline Caviar Service – The Comparison

That’s It?

OK, I promise some more—especially a deal or two for Atlantic City, and maybe even a London deal or two.

The post ????HOT???? Black Friday 2020 Vegas Deals (Casino Deals and Cyber Monday) appeared first on TravelZork.

Vegas News | Openings, Closings, More Of The Same and News!

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 22:58:37 GMT

Vegas News November 22, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Quick Coronavirus Update

It’s been a strange week in Las Vegas. Coronavirus numbers are going the wrong way throughout Nevada. You can see the data here—also, Vegas openings, closings, and lots of news for this week.

Two weeks ago Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak said new mitigation efforts will be announced if the numbers keep getting worse. He hasn’t announced changes yet but the mystery should end soon. He’s expected to make an announcement early in the week.

I’m not going to spend too much time on the topic since it will change shortly. Sisolak hasn’t leaked any information and nobody seems to know what he has in mind.

Vegas — Openings, Closings

Difficult Decisions

I’m not sure what the right solution is but it’s a difficult decision between keeping the economy going and keeping Nevada residents safe. It appears as though restrictions in other nearby states like California will continue to send people to Las Vegas.

Vegas Weekday Closures

This week MGM Resorts announced the hotels at Mandalay Bay and The Mirage would close during the weekdays. TravelZork readers expected Mandalay Bay would reduce capacity and amenities a couple of weeks ago.

Delano and Four Seasons hotels will remain open at Mandalay Bay. The casinos and some of the restaurants at both properties will also stay open seven days a week.

Speaking of closures, the roller coaster at New York-New York will be closing for a couple of weeks in December. This news reminds me that almost everything in Atlantic City goes dark in later November and early December.

New Corona Plans

Governor Sisolak should reveal new coronavirus plans during the week. Keep an eye on Twitter for news. The next Vegas News column will surely have an update.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Quick Hits

There is the news, and then there is NEWS. This week in Las Vegas is chock full of news. There’s a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Maybe we’ll get some ALL CAPS NEWS soon. Plus, lots of Vegas openings and closings.

Earlier this year, SAHARA Las Vegas announced plans to build a restaurant row on the Vegas Strip. Construction is finally underway and should be finished in the summer of 2021. It’s probably not a coincidence that Resorts World Las Vegas – the casino being built across and down the street – will also open next summer.
You already know that Caesars the Bally’s brand but still owns the Las Vegas casino. The deal closed this week. Bally’s spent no time announcing it was buying a sports betting tech company and a slew of regional sports networks. You can read about that here.
Semi-related – MGM Grand (now Bally’s) caught fire 40 years ago yesterday. Read and watch more here.
Rumors are already swirling that New Bally’s could buy…Bally’s Las Vegas from Caesars. Don’t forget Hard Rock is also looking to return the brand to Las Vegas. Hard Rock has been rumored to be interested in Bally’s or PLANET HOLLYWOOD Las Vegas Resort. Look for news about one or both of these properties.
Lyft Robotaxis are in Vegas! Read more here if you’re down to take a car without a driver. These were previously tested with humans behind the wheel. If there’s a problem with the car driving itself while you’re a passenger, you’ll be up a creek. That said, this is a way to get around without sitting in a car with a stranger.
Aria will have three $10,000 poker tournaments in early December. Read more here. Also, Aria has some new Christmas decorations. Check it out.
A lawsuit against Steve Wynn has been dismissed. Read more here.
This is unrelated but the timing is interesting. Elaine Wynn is no longer with Wynn Resorts. Read more here.
It looks like Station Casinos may build a new casino even though it still has four closed. Read more here. You can read about the original plans for Durango Station here.
All Elite Wrestling was in Las Vegas last week. Everything was recorded at a Caesars property. The “rasslin” company made its debut at MGM Grand two years ago. The change from an MGM location to Caesars locations might be interesting to those into this kind of thing.
Brioche by Guy Savoy is now open inside Paris Las Vegas. The Caesars Palace Las Vegas location probably has the best coffee in the casino. On a related note, Mon Ami Gabi at Paris serves Intelligentsia Coffee which is my favorite on the Vegas Strip.

Holy hell, Marc! If I lived in Vegas, I would RUN (which I don't do), not walk, to get be first in line for this experience!
— Tony (@360VegasTony) November 20, 2020

The Underground at Mob Museum now has a “Whiskey Club.” This sounds great to me and booze connoisseur, Tony from the 360 Vegas podcast, emphatically agrees. Take his word, not mine. (Side note: be sure to subscribe to 360 Vegas, it’s an awesome Vegas podcast!)
The Plaza has some new security tech. You can read about it here.
Donny Osmond will return to Vegas next year without Marie. Read the press release here.
Zumanity is done at New York-New York. Terry Fator will do some shows at that theater before the year is over. Read about 30 words about it here.
The Mat Franco show is returning to The Linq in December. Read more here.
Mr. Olympia won’t take place in Las Vegas this year. Read more here.
Dig this. Las Vegas was busy installing a sign to let you know you’re entering the hood. At the same time, Las Vegas was also laying the groundwork to make Las Vegas a Smart City. Read more here.
Did you know that TravelZork can book you at some of the BEST VEGAS RESORTS with extra perks and benefits? Well, now, you KNOW!

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Vegas News | A Wild Week As Coronavirus Spreads And Virgin Vegas Begins Taking Reservations

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 15:33:25 GMT

Vegas News November 15, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

We’re going to start off with a slew of news that happened this week while I was researching coronavirus in Las Vegas. The information that follows is kind of all over the place, but it’s all somehow related to coronavirus. Plus, we will touch on some Virgin Vegas news.

Vegas Corona Update

I’d much rather focus on fun things happening in and around Las Vegas but this just won’t go away. Coronavirus cases continue to spread around the country and Las Vegas is no different. You can see the data here if you’re curious about specifics.

RIO To Reopen

The scene was looking positive mid-week when Caesars announced RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino would reopen in December. As we speculated in Quick Hits last week the hotel will only be open on the weekends. Most of the casino and its amenities will be open seven days a week.

It’s probably not a coincidence that a day later Caesars announced that the World Series Of Poker will have the final table of the Main Event recorded for ESPN live at Rio All-Suite Hotel in late December. Time will tell if this actually happens as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise. Caesars says it could postpone the live event.

No word if and when a baseball stadium will open at Rio. Please ask someone else with closer ties to this rumor.

Governor Sisolak has COVID-19

On Friday night, just about every news outlet reported that Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak has COVID-19. He wasn’t showing any symptoms at the time but a positive test isn’t good for an older fella. In the past four months since casinos reopened 712 visitors, have tested positive for coronavirus. The vast majority tested positive for the virus in Las Vegas. The newspaper says that Las Vegas saw 5.7 million visitors during this period.

Buffets, Classic Cars and Strip Clubs

As we’ve been mentioning all year it appears as though some buffets won’t be returning to Las Vegas. This week, Eater is reporting that Circus Circus will replace its buffet with a food court. This probably has nothing to do with a kid shooting someone last week.

Las Vegas is all over the place with news as it relates to the evolution of the town as it relates to coronavirus. Mecum Auctions is selling classic cars in Las Vegas this weekend. The company is taking safety protections for buyers. This isn’t my cup of tea but it’s nice to see something happening in Las Vegas that will bring a smile to someone’s face.

Rhino and Sapphire

It appears as though Spearmint Rhino and Sapphire have reopened too. This should also put a smile on some faces. The Sapphire song by Hard Nox from seven years ago always puts a smile on my face. (Also see: Vegas Strip Clubs Get the Okay to Reopen but Only Secretly.)

A few weeks ago we shared information about a sex worker suing Nevada to work. I’m not sure how I missed this last week but a karaoke bar is also suing the state.

Vegas Holiday Attractions and Show Updates

On a positive note, the holiday cactus garden at Ethel M chocolate factory no longer has socially distant spaces available to reserve. You can walk up but they’ll only allow someone in if there’s a cancellation. This might sound like bad news but people doing things and visiting a local business feels like a good thing. You can read more about the annual attraction here.

Ellis Island Egg Nog

How about some more good news? The limited-edition egg nog is back at Ellis Island! You can read the press release here. The Ratpack is Back show returns to Tuscany. Speaking of shows returning, “Extravaganza – The Vegas Spectacular” will reopen at Bally’s on November 23.

Stadium Swim at Circa will host a concert and benefit on New Year’s Eve featuring Zowie Bowie. The 4,000 capacity venue will only have 400 people in attendance. The show and benefit will also be on TV. You can read more here.

Of course, the good news and bad news are all pending. Nobody really knows what the future holds for the spread of coronavirus. There’s really a lot to take in about this.

There’s good, bad, and ugly. There’s no perfect next step for everyone. Some people continue to visit Las Vegas while many others stay away from Vegas according to what we see and this small sampling of TravelZork followers on Twitter.

Hopefully, keeping up with Vegas news will help you make the right decision for you.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Quick Hits

Not everything happening in and around Las Vegas links back to coronavirus. Let’s take a look at some other news that happened this week.

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Book Now. https://t.co/KRnH5iuxKd pic.twitter.com/EA2RUoMP4l
— Virgin Hotels Las Vegas (@VirginHotelsLV) November 12, 2020

Virgin Vegas Updates

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is now taking reservations. Initial prices for rooms aren’t cheap but it appears as though Virgin Vegas does not have a resort fee yet. Note there are different portals for Virgin loyalty club and Mohegan Sun loyalty club members. Hilton members save a few bucks too. Also, Rakuten members get 2.5% cashback reserving through Hilton. (Also see: Virgin Vegas on Hilton Website)
Speaking of fees, here’s a list of fees national hotel chains charge. This isn’t specifically Vegas-related but you love fees so I’m sharing.
A real estate developer purchased land on Paradise near Virgin. There’s a “cool project” coming someday. Read more here.

Dayclub at Resorts World Las Vegas

Resorts World Las Vegas released details about its nightlife. There’s info about a few venues at the property including the sweet day club above. You can see a few more renderings here.
Lucky the Leprechaun is leaving O’Sheas. Vital Vegas has details here.
Bazaar Meat at Sahara has a new bar menu. It looks like some of the prices are a buck or two less expensive. Read more here.
The Henderson Silver Knights revealed their jerseys this week. Dig em? You can read and see more here.

Jerseys for Henderson Silver Knights @HSKnights cc @UniWatch pic.twitter.com/aJSpJi09qZ
— Marc (@MeltzVegas) November 10, 2020

Flock and Fowl is closing in downtown Las Vegas. The owners will have a new concept soon. Read more here.
There’s a new Shakira Viva Vision show at the Fremont Street Experience. Read more here.
Stiffs and Georges has some positive info about Station Casinos from a stock analyst. This reiterates the info we’ve been sharing from recent earnings calls. Note, the info starts on page one and continues.
Caesars Palace Las Vegas is renovating its food court. I probably spent more time here than any individual location inside the casino the last time I stayed at Caesars Palace. No other thoughts, just sharing.
Las Vegas will continue to hold NASCAR races through 2031. Read more here.

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Vegas News | MGM Opens And Closes

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 23:49:27 GMT

Vegas News November 8, 2020

TravelZork Las Vegas News

Feature story: Pushing Forward Back

Pushing Forward Back by Temple of the Dog is a song I think about often. I don’t know what the actual lyrics are other than the chorus, but these words often come to mind when I think of doing business. It’s also a good entry point to discuss our main theme this week: MGM Opens and Closes.

Sometimes progress is two steps forward and one step back. It feels as though there’s a lot of this happening in Las Vegas this year. Take MGM Resorts for example. One week they announce all properties in Las Vegas are open. A couple of weeks later, things are already changing.

Park MGM reopened on September 30. The company then announced shows were returning to select properties this weekend. Both are excellent steps forward as the company tries to get back to business.

MGM Opens And Closes

Well, last week MGM Resorts said the company would close some properties in November and December. Skip ahead just a few days and MGM Resorts announced that the hotel at Park MGM would close during weekdays due to slow demand in the month it was open.

Positive Reallocation – Park MGM to NoMad

NoMad hotel will remain open while the main hotel at Park MGM is closed. On a positive note, it appears as though Park MGM reservations are getting a nice upgrade to NoMad rooms. The rack rate is usually about $50 more per night so this could be seen as a score for those who had reservations at less expensive Park MGM.

While MGM Resorts is opening some shows, the company is also closing the poker rooms at Excalibur, Mandalay Bay, and The Mirage permanently. The rooms have already been repurposed so this isn’t much of a surprise.

The Mirage poker room is now a non-smoking slots room. Mandalay Bay is using the room as an overflow lounge at the sportsbook. MGM Grand will host some freeroll poker tournaments using poker money from the closed rooms. You can find the details here.

What’s Next – MGM Opens And Closes

I wouldn’t be surprised to see MGM Resorts closes at least another hotel and/or tower. During the company earnings call, they noted that Park MGM was the only property that didn’t generate positive cash flow during the third quarter.

Cash Flow Problems

Mandalay Bay was the only property in the second quarter with similar cash flow problems. That property made money in July, August, and September because the seven-acre pool complex brought families to the property. Now that winter is here (high temps in the 50’s! Brr) it wouldn’t be a big surprise to see at least part of Mandalay Bay close along with most of the pools.

It seems as though there’s something new between openings, closings, limited hours, capacity changes happening regularly. Keep your eyes peeled for more changes at MGM and all Las Vegas properties as coronavirus ebbs and flows. All businesses around the country have to adjust to local conditions and Las Vegas is no different.

Casino and Vegas Quick Hits

Quick Hits

The current Vegas News format was made for weeks like this. We have lots of Quick Hits from all over Las Vegas – including some wild occupancy news for Caesars properties you might have missed. Let’s get to it starting with this odd dog robot shopper from Wynn.

Video pic.twitter.com/mGXxB3C4lI
— Marc (@MeltzVegas) November 5, 2020

Wynn Resorts posted third-quarter earnings.
During the call, Wynn touted the high ADR (Average Daily Room Rate) during the 3rd quarter. The company accounted that the price for rooms in the third quarter was a whopping $269 per night.
Speaking of Wynn Las Vegas, there’s a new Hermes in the shopping plaza. Read more here.
Check out the tech specs on the video wall at the Circa sportsbook here.
Caesars also reported third-quarter earnings this week. There were quite a few nuggets during this call.
Caesars CEO Tom Reeg says the company expects to open RIO All-Suite Las Vegas Hotel and Casino before the end of the year. Expect a limited opening similar to PLANET HOLLYWOOD Las Vegas Resort and The Linq.
Interesting note from Reeg about Caesars Las Vegas occupancy during the third quarter – Occupancy was just under 60%. That sounds okay but the company saw mid-90% occupancy on the weekends and mid 50% during weekdays. He touted Caesars Rewards for the reason so many people stayed at Caesars properties in Las Vegas during the weekend.
Another compelling comment was about how much pent up demand Caesars is hearing about from its customers. Reeg says it is going to be “beyond your wildest dreams” in a post COVID world. Of course, he doesn’t know when that will be.
Hopefully, post-COVID isn’t like this new Michael Bay movie trailer.

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TravelZork

Vegas News | Siegfried and Sheldon Pass Away, Virgin Is Still Delayed And The Cosmopolitan Is ...

Vegas News January 17, 2021

Personal Las Vegas Thoughts

Cosmopolitan Vegas – Love Still True in 2021

Cosmo – What It Costs?

Covid-Cosmo

Good Eats! — Cosmopolitan Vegas

Las Vegas Quick Hits

Retrospective: Wynn Palace and Design DNA

Design DNA

Wynn Palace Design

Not Revolution But More Subtle Evolution

New Species With All The DNA

Wynn Palace Color Palette

A Wynn Hallmark

Quotable Casino and Gambling Quotes

Gambling Quotes

WINNING IN THE CASINO

POKER

GREED

THE GAMBLER’S FALLACY

BASIC TRUTH OF CASINO GAMBLING

LEAVING WHILE YOU ARE AHEAD

CRAPS

LOSING IN THE CASINO

THE END RESULT OF PAI GOW POKER

CORPORATE LAS VEGAS

LUCK

BEING LUCKY

FUN AT THE CRAPS TABLE

ACCEPTING A LOSS

THE ATTRACTION TO VICE

GAMBLING MANIA

KNOWING WHEN TO GO

EXISTENTIALISM

FINANCIAL DECISIONS

CREATING THE CASINO EXPERIENCE

RECREATIONAL GAMBLING

THE MIND OF THE RECREATIONAL GAMBLER

Vegas News | Changes and more changes? Rio, Venetian, and nightclubs

Vegas News January 10, 2021

Vegas – Changes and more changes?

Coronavirus Related Quick Hits

Las Vegas Quick HitsVegas Changes and more changes?

Hotel Review | Circa Resort Single King – Las Vegas

You’ll Find In This Article

Getting Started – Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Booked a Single King

Total Cost – $215

Checking In – Circa Las Vegas

Finally In The Room

Right To The Bathroom

The Living Area – Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Sleeping Area – Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Legacy Club – Circa Las Vegas

Circa Food – No Room Service Yet

Slow Wifi and Lack Of Outlets disappoint

Overall Thoughts – Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Glamour, Vintage Vegas, Modern Luxuries

FAQ – Circa Las Vegas Hotel and Circa Las Vegas Legacy Club

Vegas News | It’s A New Year In Vegas!

Vegas News January 3, 2021

A New Year In Vegas

New Year’s Eve In Vegas

Atlantic City January 2021 | Governor extends New Jersey’s public-health emergency

Atlantic City January 2021

The Cove opens at Ocean Casino

Bally’s opens temporary sportsbook

Ocean customers donate $12,000 to charities

MGM extends (M Life) expiration dates

Harrah’s reopens poker room

Free slot tournaments

Hard Rock makes changes to Wild Card Rewards

Trump Plaza to be demolished next month

Ocean VIP Lounge opens daily to Platinum cardholders

Shuttle shuttered

Leave the driving to them

CRDA approves indoor water park

Borgata President/COO named one of ‘25 People To Watch’

Las Vegas Quick Hits
Vegas Changes and more changes?

Getting Started –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

The Living Area –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Sleeping Area –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

Overall Thoughts –
Hotel Review Circa Vegas

FAQ – Circa Las Vegas Hotel
and Circa Las Vegas Legacy Club

**Looking ahead (schedules subject to change):**

Casino Sales
-Las Vegas Predictions

New Sportsbook Operators
-Las Vegas Predictions

New Construction
-Las Vegas Predictions

Resorts World – Mohegan – Virgin
Casino Loyalty Updates

Venetian – Wynn
Casino Loyalty Updates

Club One Players Club
Casino Loyalty Updates

Is February 1st, 2021 The Date
For (Partner) Matched Status To Update?