Author Topic: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth  (Read 34628 times)

hybrid

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Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« on: August 25, 2013, 09:09:47 AM »
I just returned from a conference (on the company dime, thank goodness) in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas and all I can say is...... wow.  I have a head of gray hair but had never been to Vegas before, it was never that high on my to-do list.  I sort of knew that everything on the Strip was over-the-top, but some things you have to see for yourself to truly appreciate.  Caesars Palace, like many of the top casinos on the Strip I walked through, has oodles of boutiques.  Louis Vutton, Prada, Coach, you name it, it's there.  They're all there.  $1000 swimsuits and shoes, no problem.  You'll have plenty of options.  Our hotel room had the typical stocked refrigerator charging premiums for beverages.  But $12 for a beer?  $12 for roasted nuts?  $12 for condoms and breath mints (seriously, they had that too...).  The architecture in these buildings is fabulous.  But not fabulous in a work of Michelangelo sort of way, fabulous in a oh-my-word everything is just so incredibly over-the-top sort of way.  Nothing is understated here, I suppose that's the whole point.  The restaurants were similarly outlandish.  $18 burgers, $50 buffets, and any number of celebrity chef themed restaurants where you could drop three bills for one of the best steaks (or not) you ever had.  Shows?  If there was a ticket less than $50 for anything, I don't know of it.

It was fun.  It was an experience.   We did not partake of most of the above other than to walk about and try to keep my jaw off the 105 degree pavement (We did see a show).  And there were lots of things about Vegas I did enjoy (Hoover Dam, Pinball Hall of Fame, etc.).  There are definitely ways to vacation in Vegas on a more mustachian level.  For example, we arrived in Vegas a few days before the conference and since that time was on our own dime we rented a condo in a resort a half mile off the strip that featured a full kitchen and washer/dryer for half of what Caesars Palace was charging (and was in fact far more relaxing and comfortable).  The missus visited extended family in Utah for a few days.  We walked a lot and saw many of the sights.  But wow, Sin City sure lives up to its name.  You really have to experience it once to appreciate the greatest shrine to consumerism and hedonism I have ever witnessed.

But gosh, I sure wish I could have brought the Pinball Hall of Fame (four miles off the strip and $10 will last you two or three hours) back home with me....

Joshin

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #1 on: August 25, 2013, 10:38:45 AM »
I've been to Vegas exactly once, for my sister-in-law's wedding. We had our kids with us (then very young), so we weren't really exposed to Vegas night life. Neither the hubs or I are much for gambling, and we were fortunate that his father was paying our hotel stay and for dinner for the family every night. We took advantage of the free breakfast buffet offered by the hotel, and filled the mini-fridge with bread, peanut butter, fruit and dinner leftovers for lunch.

We went back in 2007, but I remember quite a few free/cheap things we did. There was the free nightly show at Treasure Island, something with moving statues at Caesar’s, and an aerial thing at Circus Circus. I had planned ahead, and had signed up for some free rewards card thingy at Circus Circus online, which gave us a coupon for free arcade tokens for the kids (I'm sure it was to get us to gamble while the kids were busy, but we didn't gamble). We walked the strip quite a bit and took in the sights for free, although I do remember splurging on ice cream cones once. Hubs and I spent about $10 altogether on the slots, and another $10 or so on tips, when we were doing the forced hang out in the casino time with relatives each evening. We'd feed a machine just long enough to get a drink, then visit with the rest of our group until we needed another one, then we'd sit at a machine and drop two or three coins until a waitress appeared.

Our relatives spent a lot more. They gambled, they shopped, skipped the free breakfast for fancy meals,shopped, bought a lot of booze, and paid for a lot of shows.

I'd never purposely plan a vacation to Vegas, but it wasn't a bad trip. Not my kind of place and it's in the desert southwest, an area of the country I worked very hard to escape. I just don't get the draw of such a consumerist mecca in the middle of nowhere, I guess. People watching also revealed a lot of sad, desperate people, trying to win happiness and instead only being rewarded with bankruptcy.

pachnik

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #2 on: August 25, 2013, 11:54:51 AM »
We went in 2010 and stayed at the Tropicana for 4 nights.  I had never been to Las Vegas but my husband had been once.

I really enjoyed the flight since it was only 2 1/4 hrs. from Vancouver and we flew in at night so got to see the Strip all lit up.  A bright, jagged line cutting through the desert. 

We aren't gamblers and I am not a shopper though my husband enjoys shopping a bit.  For us there was a lot to do just with walking along the strip and popping into the hotels.  I remember we got lost in Caesars Palace looking for the buffett!  I think that place had 2 Gucci stores in it.  Lots of luxury shopping in the malls attached to the hotels.

I liked looking at the wedding chapels of all things and I loved the gardens in the Bellagio.  We saw two shows as well.  There was so much for us to do that we forgot to gamble until our third day there.  I guess we just aren't gamblers (thank God).     :)


BlueMR2

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #3 on: August 25, 2013, 12:31:48 PM »
Vegas was one business trip that I did manage to enjoy, but be disappointed in at the same time.  :-)

I really enjoyed seeing all the lights (while still being a little sad at all the light pollution it causes).

I learned I don't have any interest in gambling.  After donating $2.25 to slot machines I lost interest in ever gambling again.

I also determined that it actually isn't a 24 hour place despite the claims.  I was wandering around at 3-4 am and until I ran into another guy from our group I only saw a handful of workers and nobody else.

I think it's someplace everybody should experience once.  If you're leaning towards a more mustachian existence already, simply experiencing such unnecessary extravagance could seal the deal.  The sheer expense, waste, and pollution (of every type) is something to behold.

KMMK

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #4 on: August 25, 2013, 03:25:46 PM »
Yeah, I saw it once last year and once was enough. It was worth seeing one time, I guess. It's a the best destination to get cheap direct flights from here, and is a hell of a lot warmer than Winnipeg in February. We flew to Vegas, drove to LA, San Diego, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, and back to Vegas over a week.

We started off by staying a little ways off the strip as it was a weekend. The motel had a kitchenette, but zero dishes, so that was pointless. When we came back through we got a good deal right on the Strip - about $45/night, as it was a Thursday, I think.

We did the timeshare presentation thing to get a free show and meal. The timeshare thing was annoying, but it did save us some money. The free show was great, and the $100 meal for $20 was good.

I got a free $5 voucher for gambling and because I was gambling they give you free drinks. I think I spent an extra $5, so I broke even there, with my one drink. I don't enjoy the slots, but my husband played a little. Just walking around was good, as we did get lots of exercise. I agree, the Bellagio gardens are nice. Wish I'd seen more stuff like that. I found it so hard to find things. They make everything like a maze, intentionally of course.

If we go back I want to do the Skytrain thing, and see a few more sights, but I'm in no rush to ever go again.

Albert

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #5 on: August 25, 2013, 03:27:59 PM »
We stopped by for two nights in the summer of 2003 en route to Grand Canyon. Certainly worth seeing it once, particularly at night with all the lights and less heat. That was the only time in my life I've gambled (other than few lottery tickets here or there) - lost my dedicated budget of 50$. :)

SnackDog

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #6 on: August 25, 2013, 03:37:45 PM »
There is nothing like it on earth. And if you are clever you can get dirt cheap hotel and free or cheap food and drink. I recommend Vegas to everyone! We don't shop or gamble but always have a great time there.

olivia

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #7 on: August 25, 2013, 04:30:48 PM »
Vegas really is awful and amazing all in one.  I used to go twice a year for trade shows, and now I go once a year to meet up with friends.  Not a fan of Vegas AT ALL but there are ways to do it on the cheap.  Even before finding MMM I would go to Target to buy my own snacks, waters, etc. as soon as I landed, and of course I never pay full price for a hotel room.  Plus I'll rent a car, which is incredibly inexpensive.  Valet parking is free everywhere aside from tip.  And my favorite meal there is In N Out...I usually have lunch there at least twice.  The buffets are just disgusting, with the exception being brunch at the Four Seasons, which is totally worth the money.

Gen Y Finance Journey

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #8 on: August 25, 2013, 05:01:39 PM »
hybrid, I believe we were just at the same conference. :)

I've been to Vegas a couple times with friends in the past, but I just couldn't do it anymore. Even with everything paid for by my company, I still felt bad about how much everything cost. But we'll be back at Caesar's in 2015!

lentilman

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #9 on: August 25, 2013, 05:25:39 PM »
Ha, wide variety of responses.  Vegas is polarizing!

BTW, it is my favorite place!  Walking and people watching are the best, and as other posters have mentioned there are plenty of ways to do it on the cheap.  Tons of free entertainment and a special vibe like nowhere else. 

One big difference in my experience and some of the others- I play poker (profitably!) as a hobby.  A big part of my Vegas experience is sitting in an air-conditioned room in a comfortable chair, playing a favorite game with a professional dealer and security ready to handle any disputes, and a team of waitresses ready to bring me a free beverage of my choice if I get thirsty.  One of my dreams is retire out there and just start grinding. :)

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #10 on: August 26, 2013, 02:01:33 AM »
I love Vegas - don't gamble or shop and it's possible to do it on the cheap. I always go see the Star Trek Experience at the Hilton (is it still running?) and catch the free shows on the strip, and see the art exhibits. The Venetian and the Bellagio are the hotels that can be counted on to put on world-class art exhibits.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #11 on: August 26, 2013, 03:55:32 AM »
I always go see the Star Trek Experience at the Hilton (is it still running?)

Nope, the Star Trek Experience closed in 2008.  The props were sold at auction, and various rumors about a reopening downtown have been popping up since then.

brighteye

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #12 on: August 26, 2013, 04:09:01 AM »
Vegas is very polarizing, I agree. But with a mustachian mindset, it can be an inexpensive experience. Don't gamble (obviously). Hotels are cheap because they want you to stay and gamble. Parking is free (we never did valet but just walked to our car in the parking garage, duh), the hotels are the sights of the city and free to roam. One evening we found a bar with 1$ beer. We visited a friend who grew up in Vegas, he can "buy" tickets for shows for free (when they don't sell out, they give tickets away to fill the empty seats. I think this is only available for locals, but he got us to several shows for 0$!). This way, he saw all the stars who had shows in Vegas.

If you stay at the Stratosphere you can go to the Tower for free (not the rides though). As we stayed several days (and you get one ticket for every day), we ended up selling the tickets to other visitors. I think the ticket was around 15$, and we gave them away for 10$.

brighteye

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #13 on: August 26, 2013, 04:10:56 AM »
Oh - and the daily light/music show at Freemont Street is free and fun! So lots of things to do while spending zero dollars.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #14 on: August 26, 2013, 07:36:07 AM »
I always go see the Star Trek Experience at the Hilton (is it still running?)

Nope, the Star Trek Experience closed in 2008.  The props were sold at auction, and various rumors about a reopening downtown have been popping up since then.

That's too bad. We have lots of pictures of me with the various in-costume staff getting my nerd on.

NinetyFour

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #15 on: August 26, 2013, 07:46:14 AM »
I am hoping to get through life without ever having to go to Vegas.  My hockey team wants to go to a tournament there this Fall, but if they do, they will have to find another defense player!

arebelspy

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #16 on: August 26, 2013, 07:48:27 AM »
I am hoping to get through life without ever having to go to Vegas.  My hockey team wants to go to a tournament there this Fall, but if they do, they will have to find another defense player!

...really?  Even after all the people in this thread talked about all the Mustachian and cool, free things you can do here, you'd rather abandon your team than open up your mind a little bit?
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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #17 on: August 26, 2013, 08:03:16 AM »
I saw a documentary once about a whole population of people that live in the sewers under Vegas. Just crazy the things people will do for money.

arebelspy

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #18 on: August 26, 2013, 08:07:55 AM »
I saw a documentary once about a whole population of people that live in the sewers under Vegas. Just crazy the things people will do for money.

Yes, we have a large homeless population.  Gets dangerous down there when we have flash floods.

Not sure I'd classify that as "crazy the things people will do for money."  Or did you mean crazy the things they'll do when they don't have money?
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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #19 on: August 26, 2013, 08:08:59 AM »
I saw a documentary once about a whole population of people that live in the sewers under Vegas. Just crazy the things people will do for money.

Yes, we have a large homeless population.  Gets dangerous down there when we have flash floods.

Not sure I'd classify that as "crazy the things people will do for money."  Or did you mean crazy the things they'll do when they don't have money?

Was talking about the gamblers. The homeless people are kind of a side effect of that.

Left Bank

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #20 on: August 26, 2013, 08:37:15 AM »
I am hoping to get through life without ever having to go to Vegas.  My hockey team wants to go to a tournament there this Fall, but if they do, they will have to find another defense player!

Not being a gambler and despising the faux "culture" of Las Vegas, I too had intentions of avoiding LV.  Unfortunately work dragged me out there for some BS conference and it fully lived down to my expectations. 
The worst is walking around and people watching.  Such dichotomy can be found - the clueless, gawking tourists impressed with the mass of plastic and waste and the others with such desperation, poverty and mis-guided pursuits of happiness.
In my opinion, the city of LV is a truly horrible place but the surrounding deserts and parks are wonderful.  To each their own.

hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #21 on: August 26, 2013, 08:52:07 AM »
hybrid, I believe we were just at the same conference. :)

I've been to Vegas a couple times with friends in the past, but I just couldn't do it anymore. Even with everything paid for by my company, I still felt bad about how much everything cost. But we'll be back at Caesar's in 2015!

Are you talking about ILTA?  And are they definitely going back to Caesar's Palace in 2015?  Oh well, better than Nashville in 2014....

jrhampt

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #22 on: August 26, 2013, 09:07:44 AM »
Yes, it's a spectacle.  I also consider it worth seeing once...walking out in the middle of a night that's as bright as day, for instance...but for me, once is probably enough, even though I've been there a couple of times -- lots of organizations tend to have conferences in Vegas on occasion, so odds are that if you are a professional of any kind, you'll get sent there by your company at some point.  Most of the things I thought were the coolest about the area were outside of Vegas, though -- someone's already mentioned the Hoover Dam, which is a must-see, and the Grand Canyon is not far, either. 

There are times when you get an excess hangover and a strong sense of repulsion/self loathing from all the consumerism and waste...I think for me I actually felt that most strongly after a weekend partying in South Beach, though.

hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #23 on: August 26, 2013, 09:18:29 AM »
I also determined that it actually isn't a 24 hour place despite the claims.  I was wandering around at 3-4 am and until I ran into another guy from our group I only saw a handful of workers and nobody else.

I think it's someplace everybody should experience once.  If you're leaning towards a more mustachian existence already, simply experiencing such unnecessary extravagance could seal the deal.  The sheer expense, waste, and pollution (of every type) is something to behold.

I developed bronchitis my last two days there (out of seven, and thankfully not during the part where I was "on vacation") and had to venture to the 24 hour CVS next to Monte Carlo at 2:30 in the morning.  To do this and not walk in 95 degree heat (even at that hour) meant going through Caesars - Bellagio - tram to Monte Carlo.  Even at that later hour these places were all still doing a brisk business in the casinos and the bars.  I bet I passed close to 1000 people total (it's a long and winding walk, the hotels are designed that way).  And I got my first solicitation from a prostitute on the way!  Funny how walking alone at 2:30 in the morning will do that....  I should have told her, sorry, no, on my way to get an antibiotic already, but thanks for the offer....

Agreed on the second point.  Before MMM I would have found this wasteful.  After adopting a more MMM lifestyle I found out just how much LV and I don't match up.  It truly is an amazing place.  But not necessarily in a good way.

Anyone here been to Dubai?  I've read and heard it is the same sort of experience there.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #24 on: August 26, 2013, 09:47:16 AM »
Las Vegas is a fun vacation spot; I enjoy the shows. I have seen such acts as the Moody Blues, Elton John and Peter Frampton at the Beach in Mandalay Bay. I have also seen some other funky acts and up and coming artists. There's no rule that you have to eat your meals on the strip. Lot's of places to each within a short drive of the strip. You just need to be smart with how you spend your money.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #25 on: August 26, 2013, 10:05:38 AM »
hybrid, I believe we were just at the same conference. :)

I've been to Vegas a couple times with friends in the past, but I just couldn't do it anymore. Even with everything paid for by my company, I still felt bad about how much everything cost. But we'll be back at Caesar's in 2015!

Are you talking about ILTA?  And are they definitely going back to Caesar's Palace in 2015?  Oh well, better than Nashville in 2014....

Yep, ILTA indeed. I am relatively certain it will be at Caesar's Palace again in 2015. Did you go last time it was in Nashville? I actually enjoyed that more than Vegas. The hotel there is like a labyrinth, but it's a lot more serene than Vegas hotels. And if you have a chance to get out, you can visit the full-scale replica of the Parthenon! :)

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #26 on: August 26, 2013, 10:12:51 AM »
I am hoping to get through life without ever having to go to Vegas.  My hockey team wants to go to a tournament there this Fall, but if they do, they will have to find another defense player!

Ha, awesome, that's actually one of my stated lifetime goals too! Die without ever visiting Las Vegas. Another one is to ride my bike 100,000 miles (which I should probably up to 200,000). If something forces me to go there, I probably wouldn't fight TOO hard (particularly since I do feel a bit bad judging a place without experiencing it firsthand), but hopefully nothing ever forces me there.

Just the whole idea of "going somewhere to have fun" seems rather anti-mustachian to me (what's keeping you from cutting loose in your hometown?), especially if that place is a nature-defying city built in the middle of a desert.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #27 on: August 26, 2013, 11:15:47 AM »
I love that the title is so specific: "Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth". 

Yes the strip is crazy.  But a couple city blocks east or west and you're back down to earth.  Still I'm compelled to say - if you hate glitter and glam and have otherwise been avoiding the Strip, consider another point of view.  The strip is really just a hop from some amazing outdoor activities.  There's kayaking and SUP at lake mead.  There are the Arizona hot springs.  There is cliff jumping at nelson's landing.  There is more rock climbing than you could sample in a life time (red rock canyon, et all.).  Red rock canyon has to be one of the most scenic bicycle loops ever.  there's hiking and canyoneering with many fun rappels.  Then of course there's valley of fire, grand canyon (west rim), day trips to Zion, Day trips to St. George.  The list goes on and on. 

So the next time a conference brings you to Vegas, make work pay for a rental car and hit the national parks.

Cheers!

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #28 on: August 26, 2013, 12:05:50 PM »
Bet the don't pass line on the cheap craps tables.  Do get the free drinks, don't shop at the boutiques.  Voila, the strip becomes mustachian.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #29 on: August 26, 2013, 12:10:56 PM »
In addition to seeing the "Disneyland for adults" once in your life, Las Vegas is a cheap and convenient starting point for all kinds of nature tours (Death Valley, Grand Canyon etc). Someone here mentioned Dubai. That place is over the top as well, but in a different sense. Haven't been there yet, but wouldn't mind having a longer layover en route to Asia.

hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #30 on: August 26, 2013, 01:54:06 PM »
I love that the title is so specific: "Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth". 

Yes the strip is crazy.  But a couple city blocks east or west and you're back down to earth.  Still I'm compelled to say - if you hate glitter and glam and have otherwise been avoiding the Strip, consider another point of view.  The strip is really just a hop from some amazing outdoor activities.  There's kayaking and SUP at lake mead.  There are the Arizona hot springs.  There is cliff jumping at nelson's landing.  There is more rock climbing than you could sample in a life time (red rock canyon, et all.).  Red rock canyon has to be one of the most scenic bicycle loops ever.  there's hiking and canyoneering with many fun rappels.  Then of course there's valley of fire, grand canyon (west rim), day trips to Zion, Day trips to St. George.  The list goes on and on. 

So the next time a conference brings you to Vegas, make work pay for a rental car and hit the national parks.

Cheers!

That was my point exactly, thanks for noticing.  We did have a rental car and the further I got away from the strip, the more I liked Las Vegas.  The scenery is striking to an East Coast guy, the air is so much clearer and the mountains seem like they are so close when they really aren't.  We did find a couple of decent restaurants at a small casino several blocks off the strip that were far from outrageous and had decent food (Tuscany).  Best flan I've ever had was at the little Mexican restaurant in there.  Also enjoyed visting the railroad museum between Las Vegas and Hoover Dam, that was very cool.  I was born in a little rail town so I still have an affinity for trains.

I visited a buddy in Salt Lake City in June two years ago and really wasn't expecting much.  I fell in love with that city.  Gorgeous mountain scenery, temperate climate, bike friendly, all the hiking you could possibly want, no bugs at all, and when you hit a golf ball your drive is 25 yars longer than at sea level.  If I ever left Richmond - and I won't - I could see living in a place like that.  It was like Las Vegas but with water and more comfortable temperatures.  That's a very nice place to take a Mustachian vacation.

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #31 on: August 26, 2013, 02:18:53 PM »
...really?  Even after all the people in this thread talked about all the Mustachian and cool, free things you can do here, you'd rather abandon your team than open up your mind a little bit?

Kinda depends on whether you think those free things are in fact cool.  You'd have to pay me (and quite well, too) to do most of them.

I'll agree that there are some decent places outside of Vegas, though with some, like Death Valley & Zion, the distance is really stretching the definition of "outside".  It's also a good idea not to visit many of them in the summer months, unless you can tolerate the extreme heat.

hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #32 on: August 26, 2013, 02:21:07 PM »
Are you talking about ILTA?  And are they definitely going back to Caesar's Palace in 2015?  Oh well, better than Nashville in 2014....

Yep, ILTA indeed. I am relatively certain it will be at Caesar's Palace again in 2015. Did you go last time it was in Nashville? I actually enjoyed that more than Vegas. The hotel there is like a labyrinth, but it's a lot more serene than Vegas hotels. And if you have a chance to get out, you can visit the full-scale replica of the Parthenon! :)

That's a shame, because of the eight ILTAs I've been to this one was the worst of the lot.  Caesar's Palace dropped the ball on several levels.  ILTA should have negotiated harder.  Who goes to a hotel for a technology conference where they don't have complimentary wifi in the rooms?  My wife had to either shell out $15 a day for wifi or do without.  She borrowed my laptop while I was in sessions.  The food was very substandard compared to the other places I've been.  It seemed like they were trying hard to make the conference unfriendly to spouses ($45 for lunch, a lunch that was sandwiches and chips most days?).  The breakfast on Thursday in the exhibition hall was a fiasco (Um, where are people supposed to eat exactly?  And what?)   We skipped most of the after-hours events and did our own thing.  The conference is pricey and gets pricier every year, they need to justify the costs and this conference did not do that. 

In order, these were the best ILTAs I've been to.

A+

Phoenix (J W Marriot)
Orlando , twice (J W Marriot / Ritz Carlton)

B+

Dallas (Gaylord)


B

Nashville (Gaylord)
Washington DC, twice (Gaylord)

D

Las Vegas (Caesar's Palace)

I missed ILTA at the Aria in Las Vegas a few years back, else I've been to all of them since 2005.  I heard the Aria did well.  Nashville will be much better in regards to the facilities, but I will spend the entire time in the hotel and likely get there the night before and leave the day it ends.  I'm a city boy, Nashville isn't my thing.  No desire to go to the Grand Ol' Opry.

mpbaker22

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #33 on: August 26, 2013, 02:36:22 PM »
I am hoping to get through life without ever having to go to Vegas.  My hockey team wants to go to a tournament there this Fall, but if they do, they will have to find another defense player!

...really?  Even after all the people in this thread talked about all the Mustachian and cool, free things you can do here, you'd rather abandon your team than open up your mind a little bit?


Maybe if he's lucky a certain moderator on the forum will let a few people stay in an empty rental property if he has vacancies at that time.  Of course there could be a charge since the property is part of a business, but the point remains the same.

arebelspy

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #34 on: August 26, 2013, 05:21:30 PM »
...really?  Even after all the people in this thread talked about all the Mustachian and cool, free things you can do here, you'd rather abandon your team than open up your mind a little bit?

Kinda depends on whether you think those free things are in fact cool.  You'd have to pay me (and quite well, too) to do most of them.

What exactly are you referring to?  We have some of pretty much everything, and something for everyone.  The outdoor stuff here is incredible, if that's your thing.  You don't have to go all the way to Zion or Death Valley.  Red Rock and the Valley of Fire are both a half hour from the Strip.  Mt. Charleston has ski trails.  Lake Mead has beaches.
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Dee 72013

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #35 on: August 26, 2013, 05:22:03 PM »
We enjoy Vegas but we don't gamble or spend lots of money to have fun. I think it's all in how you choose to enjoy your time there.
I like to go to Peter Lik's gallery... Can't afford his work but I enjoy seeing his new pieces. I pack my camera around with me and try to work on getting some good shots of sculptures, etc. I enjoy the street performers especially those dressed in some costume.. something you don't see everyday. I love going inside the different casinos and seeing how they are decorated and how the stores blend with the certain casinos. I enjoy standing outside the New York New York roller coaster at night and just listening to the kids scream as they ride it. I also get a cheap thrill out of taking hubby's picture next to the green M&M.. think he's over that one, lol.

Jamesqf

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #36 on: August 26, 2013, 10:30:43 PM »
The outdoor stuff here is incredible, if that's your thing.  You don't have to go all the way to Zion or Death Valley.  Red Rock and the Valley of Fire are both a half hour from the Strip.

I've not been there in decades, but I remember Red Rock as being about an hour away, and for V of F you had to go out I15 almost to Utah, then some way down past Overton.

Quote
Mt. Charleston has ski trails.

Yes, but exactly how often does it get skiable snow?

Quote
Lake Mead has beaches.

Also bathtub rings :-)  See attached photo for what a real lake & ski trails look like.

JamesAt15

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #37 on: August 26, 2013, 10:46:17 PM »
The outdoor stuff here is incredible, if that's your thing.  You don't have to go all the way to Zion or Death Valley.  Red Rock and the Valley of Fire are both a half hour from the Strip.

I've not been there in decades, but I remember Red Rock as being about an hour away, and for V of F you had to go out I15 almost to Utah, then some way down past Overton.

It's not an hour, it's quite close. We went there a few years ago and had a good time. Google Maps shows it as about a 30 min drive from Treasure Island (chosen as a mid-strip starting point) to the beginning of the Red Rocks scenic drive.

We also went to Valley of Fire, which is about an hour's drive, mostly interstate. It's only about 37 miles on the highway, then another 20 miles to the Park.

hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #38 on: August 27, 2013, 05:55:31 AM »
I think it's fair to say that almost every big city has attractions some people will like and others will not.  My point was how extreme the difference is on Las Vegas Boulevard.  Once you get several blocks from the strip Las Vegas isn't all that different from any other city.  Maybe you like Lake Mead and maybe you don't, in either case it's quite affordable and not the least bit over the top.  And yes, there are ways to do The Strip without blowing a hole in your wallet.  But that is not the way The Strip markets itself.  Every single thing there is designed to get the consumer to spend in a big way.

Personally, I did not think I would be returning to LV any time in the near future but now it seems I will be back in two years (in August, ugh!) for the same conference.  Now that I know what to expect and have a lay of the land I can plan that trip better.  I can save the firm $800 by staying somewhere off the strip, so I may leverage that to get a rental car and stay at the far more relaxing condos on Koval Road an extra few days and still save money (if they will go for that).  Moral of the story is that for all the glitz and glam even LV can be done Mustachian.  Just ask our moderator.....     

Luck better Skill

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #39 on: August 27, 2013, 07:23:38 AM »
  Last time I was in Vegas in exchange for a time share sales pitch, (to which I said no thanks), I got three tickets for Blue Man Group for the price of one.  Frugal in my book.

MrsHybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #40 on: August 27, 2013, 07:30:45 AM »
Hybrid and I had looked forward to this trip as we were only paying an extra two days on the front end, my flights and my food. I found the cheapest flights without outrageous flight times (less than $400roundtrip), a deal on weekly car rental (unlimited mileage since I was going to Utah) and what turned out to be a really well appointed condo with shuttle service to the strip which enabled us to buy food and eat in plus do laundry.

We enjoyed walking through the casinos and listening to the music being played in the clubs as we passed by. Mustachian Buddy joined us for a few days and played guide (he also sat through a 3hr time share spiel to get 3 tickets to Blue Man Group at 1/3 the cost - thanks again dude!). While there we were able to tour the shops featured on History channels's Pawn Stars and American Restorations, both free. We saw the free "shows" outside at the big casinos and toured some of the cool stuff inside.

I had looked forward to Ceasar's Palace. Las Vegas used to be known for inexpensive food and drink onthe strip (as the casinos wanted you to stay once you were there and spend your $ in the casino). Alas a lot has changed. Holiday Inn Express gives you continental breakfast and free wifi, Ceasar's  charges $15 per day PER DEVICE for wifi! You want coffee from the Keurig in your room? That's $12.00. (I must add that free coffee was available in the lobby btw 7-9 and much to my amazement the Starbucks only steps away from the lobby always had a line while Hybrid and I never had to wait for our free coffee).

The mini fridge was loaded with all manner of alcohol and a list of amenities warned that if you even moved things around in the fridge and they were not put back in their proper place you would be charged a $25 restocking fee. The cookies and assorted snacks in boxes above the fridge were $12@. The "Intimacy Kit" which included 2 condoms, personal lubricant, 2 towelettes and 2 breath mints was $25. (I'm still laughing over that one.)  Our last night hubby took a beer out and put a half sandwich in the fridge which he ate in the morning and put the beer back. Upon check out the computer showed a weight change in the fridge and charged us for the beer (hubby explained about the sandwich and charge was removed). Talk about Big Brother.  Hmmmm.... I wonder if cameras are triggered if you remove the "Intimacy Kit" ;)

The ultimate insult was a sign in the bathroom explaining how Ceasars was committed to saving water and energy and requested that you reuse your towels hanging them on the hooks and racks if reusing or leaving on floor for replacement. Now this is something we obviously do at home and we actually did while were there (we did get fresh towels a couple of times as we had to shower twice a day due to 106 degree heat). I just thought it was pretty ballsy to ask your guests to help save you money under the guise of being ecologically minded while you nickeled and dimed them at every other turn. Am I still pissed off? Absolutely. An upscale hotel used to mean that your guests received top of line services and amenities (this was part of why you could charge more). Now everything has become "add-on"or an "upgrade".

This is not a rail against Las Vegas but Ceasar's and any other ripoff hotels.  Off Strip was different. MB and I drove about 15 minutes from the hotel in search of cronuts (new pastry invention not available everywhere) which lead us to a wonderful restaurant called Lulu's where we had a terrific lunch at less than we would have paid on the strip. Never did eat Bobby Flay's $18 burger.










totoro

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #41 on: August 27, 2013, 08:37:13 AM »
Every hotel I've stayed in within the last few years - and there are lots - has the same reuse policy on towels.  It's not special to Vegas.  They obviously save money doing this, but you probably don't need a new towel each day and it is better for the environment.

I really dislike Vegas.  I've been twice - both for family events.  Stayed at Caesar's and off the strip in a VRBO.  That said, I get the appeal.  It is glitzy and if you gamble it is pretty fun.  I haven't been to the outdoors stuff so maybe that is worth the trip too. It is also affordable and in winter has some pretty nice weather compared to north of the border.

What I didn't like about Vegas:  second-hand smoke everywhere; very unhealthy gambling-addicted looking crowds in the casinos; "girls to your room in 10 min" buses driving up and down the strip;  sex cards handed out aggressively on every corner; getting charged for stuff from the fridge that we didn't take (guess we bumped something) - and I agree the per device charge for internet was excessive.  I did like seeing the wedding chapels, the fountains, and the bathroom at our room in Caesar's was pretty fancy.


hybrid

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #42 on: August 27, 2013, 02:42:55 PM »
Every hotel I've stayed in within the last few years - and there are lots - has the same reuse policy on towels.  It's not special to Vegas.  They obviously save money doing this, but you probably don't need a new towel each day and it is better for the environment.

A hotel in the desert that has a 100 gallon whirlpool bath asking me to save water on the towel washing is more than a little ballsy IMO.  Caesars isn't doing anything to help out the environment, they are there to make cash, plain and simple.  I don't disagree with washing the towels less, I just chafe at Caesars suggesting it....  Out of curiosity, are the hotels that you stay in often in dry areas?  I only occasionally see those signs, but I am on the East Coast where water isn't a big concern (in fact we have had entirely too much this year for a change of pace).

jpap

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #43 on: August 27, 2013, 06:28:45 PM »
Consider staying near downtown Las Vegas instead.  Very inexpensive, nice hotel rooms, and beer is literally less than a dollar at several casinos along Fremont street for a Pabst or Coors draft.  My family definitely preferred the atmosphere downtown.  Great free concerts, relatively inexpensive food, and very cheap drinks.

totoro

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #44 on: August 27, 2013, 11:17:52 PM »
Every hotel I've stayed in within the last few years - and there are lots - has the same reuse policy on towels.  It's not special to Vegas.  They obviously save money doing this, but you probably don't need a new towel each day and it is better for the environment.

A hotel in the desert that has a 100 gallon whirlpool bath asking me to save water on the towel washing is more than a little ballsy IMO.  Caesars isn't doing anything to help out the environment, they are there to make cash, plain and simple.  I don't disagree with washing the towels less, I just chafe at Caesars suggesting it....  Out of curiosity, are the hotels that you stay in often in dry areas?  I only occasionally see those signs, but I am on the East Coast where water isn't a big concern (in fact we have had entirely too much this year for a change of pace).

I'm in Canada.  It is not just dry areas - all upscale hotels have these signs - even on the wet west coast.

Angelfishtitan

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #45 on: August 29, 2013, 02:44:14 PM »
But $12 for a beer?  $12 for roasted nuts?  $12 for condoms and breath mints (seriously, they had that too...).

One of those things is certainly worth $12 in the right (or wrong if you will) situations...

I enjoyed Vegas when I went there when I was younger (not gambling age) and plan on enjoying some point now that I am old enough. All city's have some great things that just need to be found.

MilwaukeeStubble

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #46 on: August 29, 2013, 03:49:14 PM »
But $12 for a beer?  $12 for roasted nuts?  $12 for condoms and breath mints (seriously, they had that too...).

One of those things is certainly worth $12 in the right (or wrong if you will) situations...

I enjoyed Vegas when I went there when I was younger (not gambling age) and plan on enjoying some point now that I am old enough. All city's have some great things that just need to be found.

You're right, if starving in the desert that is Nevada roasted nuts could be the dessert that saves your life ;)

stevedoug

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #47 on: August 30, 2013, 08:28:47 AM »
I've been to Vegas around 8 times.
I gamble, and it is a blast.
I weigh the cost per units of fun, and cost per years of future work and it works out. Always.
Think your favorite Thanksgiving football games are a nail biter? Try having $200 on it!

Vegas is a marvelous (like, it's an insane marvel) place. Have an open mind if you go there! Just smile and enjoy yourself! In my opinion actively avoiding any new experience isn't a great way to grow

swiper

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #48 on: August 30, 2013, 11:38:27 AM »
Interesting and timely thread. I'll be visiting Las Vegas area at the end of September for the first time. We are planning 1-2 days in Vegas to walk the strip and sample some greasy spoon diner. Spending the next 2 weeks on a hiking/camping circuit (Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, and perhaps even Arches/Canyonlands, haven't decided on the loop yet)

I like the cheap flights down ... $350pp round trip from Ottawa all taxes and fees in!


Jamesqf

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Re: Las Vegas Boulevard - the least mustachian street on Earth
« Reply #49 on: August 30, 2013, 11:54:27 AM »
In my opinion actively avoiding any new experience isn't a great way to grow

True, but there is also a place for using intelligence to guide one's choice of new experiences.  As for instance, I could stick my hand in the garbage disposal, which would be a new experience for me, but not one I'd actively seek out :-)

 

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