(15) Hard Rock Las Vegas vs (2) Wynn
There are Hard Rock Cafes throughout the world like the Hard Rock Hotel in Bali, Indonesia, but there is only one Hard Rock Las Vegas.
The Vegas Hard Rock revolutionized the party scene not only in Vegas but throughout the world with the creation of Rehab, the ultimate morning after pool party. After a rough Saturday, when your body is begging for you to slow down before it shuts down, there is only one noble course of action: drink more.
Guests not staying at the Hard Rock Hotel have to arrive as early in the morning to queue in line for hours. Guests of the Hard Rock Hotel are given preferential treatment for admittance and the added advantage of having a home base to pre-pre-party, take a two minute power nap, and rest up for the after party at Body English before the after-after party.
The Rehab concept has been copied by hotels throughout the Strip but make no mistake, the original is still going strong at the Hard Rock.
A peaceful Sunday afternoon with the family…An innocent cocktail…Then all hell breaks looseThe end result?…see video below
(11) Mandalay Bay vs (6) Four Seasons
If you use the Priceline Trick it is very possible that you can get a discounted room at a great hotel in Vegas including the Mandalay Bay. While hotels claim that they don’t put Priceline guests in the linen closet, the chances of getting a nice upgrade ($20 trick notwithstanding) is pretty remote.
The right way to stay in Vegas is to use your Amex Platinum to book a room that is part of their Fine Hotels & Resorts collection of which Mandalay Bay is a participating member. Here are the perks in writing:
Now let me show you what this perk looks like translated into a picture:
Michigan paraphernalia not included
Instead of a basic room at Mandalay, Amex provides an upgraded suite with a full size dining table room, more televisions than anyone will ever need, and a deluxe shower.
What’s nice about staying at the Mandalay, THEhotel (Delano), or the Four Seasons is access to the many amenities of the complex:
Every resort should have a lazy riverAnd a wave pool
Now imagine all of this coupled with the service of the Four Seasons:
You too would be smiling.
Occupy Wall Street, Occupy Turkey, Occupy Everywhere are all grounded in the hopes that the people’s voice will be heard leading to a reduction of social and economic inequality. Unfortunately, all these movements start and end the same way.
Here’s how the events unfold:
Outrageous behavior from a government or corporations reaches a tipping point.
A resilient few decide to stand up for what is right.
The movement spreads like wildfire via social media.
Peaceful protests ensue.
CNN comes up with a not so clever nickname, Occupy Porta-Potties
The government/corporations get impatient.
The police attempt to clear the area without using force.
Nothing happens.
Tear gas follows.
Rubber bullets are fired.
The police apologizes.
An internal investigation on police protocol is launched.
More peaceful protests.
More irritation from corporations/government.
More intervention.
More tension!
Crowd disbursement.
Nothing changes.
Now we have Occupy Central in Hong Kong better known as the Umbrella Revolution, where protesters arm themselves with umbrellas to ward of the riot police’s crowd disbursement tactics. The reason for the protest is simple; Hong Kong people want to have democratic elections and China is refusing. Presently, Hong Kong operates under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle meaning that Hong Kong can decide how it governs itself, so long as China says it’s OK. To preserve this rule, China wants to approve the list of candidates that run for the office of chief executive in 2017. This would ensure that China would have a Beijing sympathizer running Hong Kong, preventing a possible secession of Hong Kong from mainland China in the future.
Now the perfect storm for an occupy revolution has arrived. It is the weekend in Hong Kong following a national holiday. The number of protesters have grown as have their demands. Protesters are demanding that the current chief executive Leung Chun-ying step down, something he has refused to do while China is calling the protests illegal.
The protesters believe that relieving Leung of his duties paves the way for democratic reform. How many times have we seen this end worse than when it started? From China’s perspective, if Leung steps down, this would appease the protesters in the short run. But will this resolution only quell their anger for the time being, emboldening them to become more defiant in the future?
Here’s what will happen:
Leung may stay, Leung may go. In the end, it doesn’t matter. While China may superficially give into the protesters demand for open elections, come 2017, it will still have a heavy hand in who becomes the next leader of Hong Kong. China’s best strategy going forward is straightforward: It should incrementally grant marginal powers to Hong Kong’s government to prevent further demonstrations then stay the course until 2047 when Hong Kong loses its status as a Special Administrative Region and comes completely under China’s control.
China need only to stay out of the spotlight so come Monday morning, whether it be this week or next, the streets are devoid of protesters, the markets opened, and the umbrellas tossed.
For all it hopes to do and despite its laudable intent, the Occupy Movement will continue to go nowhere until the people go nowhere.
Occupy LKF
(14) Artisan Hotel Boutique vs (3) Encore
The Artisan Hotel Boutique is dark. The Artisan Boutique Hotel is unknown. The Artisan Hotel Boutique is haunted.
The Artisan Boutique Hotel doesn’t have ghosts and goblins or anything of that sort, but it does have a magic and delight like no other hotel in the entire world. I’ve never been by day so I cannot tell you of the pool that receives rave reviews. However, I can tell you that I can’t help but be overcome by the mystique of the hotel by simply walking into the lobby for an after hours affair. The place is overrun with chandeliers, paintings from the floor to the ceiling, and couches from yesteryear.
photo courtesy of artisanhotel.com
This place is widely known by locals of the Vegas scene but a mystery to outsiders due to its location somewhere off the Strip. That’s what makes it unique. That along with the hotel rooms of which none is identical. Each features its own collection of paintings and its own clever decor. For the lovers out there that want some dash with their Mrs, tune into a certain channel for some interesting programming.
The hallways look like a scene straight out of A Clockwork Orange
The Artisan Hotel Boutique is the sort of establishment that you exit in the wee hours of the morning, your eyes squinting from the relentless sun, searching for not only a taxi but also answers as to what happened the night before.
So you’re tired of the same style of Vegas night…
Better put: If your not tired after a long Vegas night, then press forward onto the Artisan Boutique, an experience that will not disappoint.
Dear Brady,
I hope you are fine with me calling you by your first name. I have received your resume 110,000 times over and am pleased to inform you that we have an immediate spot available for you on our deserted island.
We understand that the last four years have been quite stressful for you so our goal is to make your transition as smooth as possible. Luckily, you are used to standing on the sidelines doing nothing so we trust that you’ll acclimate quite quickly to island life. Recall the tranquility of playing before an empty stadium at the end of the Utah game. That silent retreat will be a daily reality.
You may be wondering what a day in the life of living on a deserted island consists of? Fear not, each day will be a microcosm of a Michigan football season. The day begins with hope from the new area you scouted for fishing but inexplicably produces nothing. Not seeing the results you had anticipated, stick your head in the sand for a quick respite. With no strategy in mind, you can always go for a swim hoping against hope that turns the tide in your favor. Earplugs, like headsets are optional.After another disappointing day, rest assured you’ll awaken to the blurred reality that you’re not living in mediocrity.
Ready to MAC on this B1G paradise?
Respond to this offer before the end of this season and we’ll even allow you to bring along your buddy Dave Brandon.
Don’t worry, you will still be able to enjoy the maize of the sunny skies and the blue of the ocean water but beware of the downpour from the approaching storm crowds washing away all your progress from which your rendition of the Big Sandcastle was built.
Forever yours,
Not A Michigan ManThe sun setting on your dillustrious career
(26) Riviera vs (10) Venetian
The Riviera was the first hotel I ever stayed at in Las Vegas. It has been in operation for 59 years and it’s still going strong. Since my initial stay, I have not returned to the Riviera but it isn’t because I had a bad time. It’s because there is something pure, almost sacred about one’s first time in Las Vegas that should be left undisturbed.
The memories live on in the form of pictures, capturing moments filled with sounds from iPod dock speakers, livers overrun by Grey Goose, and heads full of ignorance.
Looking at pics from the pool, many years past its prime, I can’t help but think about the celebrities and parties the hotel hosted. Rather than give you the rundown of my first time, I’d rather share fun facts about the Riviera that make my memories that much sweeter:
Frank Sinatra lived in a suite while performing at the property in the 1990s
Notable performers in 1970s – Dean Martin, Steve Martin, Pia Zadora, Burt Bacharach, George Carlin, Phyllis Diller, Liza Minelli, Jimmie Walker
Ninth casino opened on the Las Vegas Strip
Englebert Humperdinck made his Las Vegas debut at Riviera Hotel & Casino in 1969
Famous clients at the Men’s Salon and Celebrity include MC Hammer, Burt Reynolds, Liberace and Joe Pesci, among others
Riviera Hotel & Casino is a pet-friendly hotel (no need to stay at Early’s Apartment)
If these walls could talk, imagine what they shouldn’t say.
Tourist
3 weeks of the Knockout Bracket and still so many hotels vying for a shot at the title. That can only mean one thing: I’ve been to Vegas far too many times.
Last week the Westin put up a valiant fight with its heavenly bed while the Bellagio became the joke of the town. The Paris had me spoiled with the glamour of gold while the Palazzo graciously took my money at the Strip’s best sports book.
All Vegas’d out, Alex is heading to Rehab to see what comes next.
Don’t stop the party
(9) Bellagio vs (8) Skylofts at MGM Grand
The icon of the Las Vegas Strip is undoubtedly the Bellagio. Situated right in the center of sin, the Bellagio is the reason tourists from far and wide come to Vegas. From the outside the hotel is stunning and timeless, making it hard to believe that it has only been a Vegas landmark since 1998.
Regrettably, that’s where the positivity of this resort review ends. It’s one thing to stop and gawk at the fountains and the perceived luxury of this beautiful structure, it’s another thing entirely to stay and play at the hotel.
Let the Bellagio Roast begin.
Bellagio, did Danny Ocean really steal that money? It looks like you are in need of an upgrade and can’t find the funds.
Bellagio, how many winners have you had at the sports book? Probably as many as you can seat. Maybe take some advice from the Palazzo and build a sports book that’s bigger than my living room.
Bellagio, you call this a suite? Refund my money from using the famous $20 trick. This room is older than, well you get the point.
Bellagio, I do love your casino, especially in the winter. It is a great shortcut when walking to your neighboring property, Caesars Palace.
Bellagio, the Bank Nightclub? Is that place still open?
Oh, eff this, I’m going to go back outside and look at the fountains.
My next book set for publication is entitled The World Press. The World Press is my personal collection of cups of espresso I’ve enjoyed around the world and the stories that accompany them. Each story begins with the literal image of the cup and is further illustrated by the metaphorical cup of the accompanying culture.
From a social perspective, the press is unique: First, the same beverage is shared all over the world. Second, it is shared and consumed in similar ways, with slight cultural/regional variations. And third, the topics discussed over caffeinated cups are the same: politics, weather, religion.
As I learned from writing my first book, it’s not the writing process that is difficult, but the editing and marketing that pose the biggest challenges. In order to move the project forward, I am publishing an entry for each city. That way I can create a buzz (pun intended) and get a kick-start on the revising process.
So pour a cup of java, click a country, and let’s get on with the journey!
Now let me show you what this perk looks like translated into a picture:
Now let me show you what this perk looks like translated into a picture:
2. THE KNOCKOUT: THE WINNER’S BRACKET OF WHERE TO STAY IN VEGAS
3. TRIAL BY JURY OF SOCIAL MEDIA
4. VEGAS KNOCKOUT: MY FANTASTIC VOYAGE AT THE TRUMP HOTEL
5. VEGAS KNOCKOUT: THAT’S PALAZZO, THAT’S PALAZZO
6. ALL KINDS OF GAINS: AN EXPAT’S GUIDE TO EXERCISE
7. VEGAS KNOCKOUT: WHY OH, WHY DO I LOVE PARIS?
Don’t forget my newest addition to the blog, the Espresso of the World map, tracking The Pulse of the world, one city at a time, one cup at a time. Also coming this October, are more Trip Reports using my trademark pending Guns And Butter approach.
All Vegas’d out, Alex is heading to Rehab to see what comes next.
The icon of the Las Vegas Strip is undoubtedly the Bellagio. Situated right in the center of sin, the Bellagio is the reason tourists from far and wide come to Vegas. From the outside the hotel is stunning and timeless, making it hard to believe that it has only been a Vegas landmark since 1998.
Regrettably, that’s where the positivity of this resort review ends. It’s one thing to stop and gawk at the fountains and the perceived luxury of this beautiful structure, it’s another thing entirely to stay and play at the hotel.
Let the Bellagio Roast begin.
Bellagio, did Danny Ocean really steal that money? It looks like you are in need of an upgrade and can’t find the funds.
Bellagio, how many winners have you had at the sports book? Probably as many as you can seat. Maybe take some advice from the Palazzo and build a sports book that’s bigger than my living room.
Bellagio, you call this a suite? Refund my money from using the famous $20 trick. This room is older than, well you get the point.
Bellagio, I do love your casino, especially in the winter. It is a great shortcut when walking to your neighboring property, Caesars Palace.
Bellagio, the Bank Nightclub? Is that place still open?
Oh, eff this, I’m going to go back outside and look at the fountains.
The icon of the Las Vegas Strip is undoubtedly the Bellagio. Situated right in the center of sin, the Bellagio is the reason tourists from far and wide come to Vegas. From the outside the hotel is stunning and timeless, making it hard to believe that it has only been a Vegas landmark since 1998.
Regrettably, that’s where the positivity of this resort review ends. It’s one thing to stop and gawk at the fountains and the perceived luxury of this beautiful structure, it’s another thing entirely to stay and play at the hotel.
Let the Bellagio Roast begin.
Bellagio, did Danny Ocean really steal that money? It looks like you are in need of an upgrade and can’t find the funds.
Bellagio, how many winners have you had at the sports book? Probably as many as you can seat. Maybe take some advice from the Palazzo and build a sports book that’s bigger than my living room.
Bellagio, you call this a suite? Refund my money from using the famous $20 trick. This room is older than, well you get the point.
Bellagio, I do love your casino, especially in the winter. It is a great shortcut when walking to your neighboring property, Caesars Palace.
Bellagio, the Bank Nightclub? Is that place still open?
Oh, eff this, I’m going to go back outside and look at the fountains.
My next book set for publication is entitled The World Press. The World Press is my personal collection of cups of espresso I’ve enjoyed around the world and the stories that accompany them. Each story begins with the literal image of the cup and is further illustrated by the metaphorical cup of the accompanying culture.
From a social perspective, the press is unique: First, the same beverage is shared all over the world. Second, it is shared and consumed in similar ways, with slight cultural/regional variations. And third, the topics discussed over caffeinated cups are the same: politics, weather, religion.
As I learned from writing my first book, it’s not the writing process that is difficult, but the editing and marketing that pose the biggest challenges. In order to move the project forward, I am publishing an entry for each city. That way I can create a buzz (pun intended) and get a kick-start on the revising process.
So pour a cup of java, click a country, and let’s get on with the journey!
