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Casino Travel Tips (Airfare, Hotels, Rides, Safety, and Discounts)

 When should I travel?  Travel Sunday through Thursday to Las Vegas to get the best hotel rates.  During the week, hotel prices can be 50% less than weekend rates.  For example the Rio Suites on weekends is $200.00 per night, while mid-week prices are a reasonable $100.00 per night. The Riviera can have a rate as low as $39.00 per night midweek.

 Where can I get the inside scoop on Las Vegas?  Believe it or not, the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Bureau's website has a wealth of information, including a convention calendar, plus information on hotels, restaurants, sightseeing and upcoming shows.

Nikki  Says:  "Hate crowds?   Who doesn't?  Remember to take note and avoid Las Vegas when big conventions are in town.  In addition to larger crowds, conventions can double or triple the average hotel rate!   Kisses.."

 What about discount airfare?  While its perfectly normal to find airline specials to Las Vegas on the major airlines, charter air companies such as Funjet can offer less expensive packages than scheduled airlines packages.  Most major airlines sell out their lowest fares 3 to 4 months ahead of time for Friday and Sunday travel.  Don't forget to look for last minute specials too!

 Are there any good partnerships I should know about?  Yes.  National Airlines is owned by Harrah's casino and will take your luggage for you from plane to hotel if you are staying at Harrah's or Rio Suites.

 I've heard about "Getting Rated", what does this mean?  If you believe you gamble more (and thus, spend more) than than the average person, ask to get yourself rated at a hotel casino you are playing at.  Getting rated means you could receive free food and drinks, special discounts, or even a free hotel stay.  Once you are rated, you will receive something commonly called a "Players Card" or "Slots Card".  You can get these cards in advance of your travel by contacting the casino's Marketing or Special Reservations departments.  When you gamble at the casino, showing your Players Card to the table dealer, or using it in a slot machine will create an account for you where the amount of money you spend is catalogued.  In most cases, the more you play, the more free items or discounts you can receive.  Asking the casino for a "Comp Record" will show you what you are entitled to.  When it comes to comps, don't hesitate to ask for what you want, whether it be a free meal, a "line pass" to get you to the front of a buffet line, or an extra night's room rate for free.

 What other travel discounts should I consider?  Shhh..  Its a secret!  A company called Las Vegas Limo offers $4.00 rides from the airport to most hotels!   Why waste your time waiting for a plain old taxi cab? To make sure you have a ride, contact them at their website and schedule a reservation.  Let them know when you are arriving.

 What about getting around in Las Vegas?  The first thing to know, is that you will probably be doing a lot of walking.  Casinos and hotels can be quite large, and moving around the main strip of casinos is best done by walking, rather than taxi.  If you have bad knees or have trouble walking, Las Vegas may not be for you.  Also, don't even think about jaywalking in Las Vegas, as it carries a hefty fine.  If you do decide to take a taxi around town, get the doorman at your hotel to hail the cab.  Most taxi drivers will only stop for doormen.  Tipping the doorman $2.00 is customary for hailing you a cab.  Taxi drivers can get between $2.00 and $5.00 depending on the number of passengers, distance traveled, and bags (if any).

 What do I do if I win big?  At any casino, winning a jackpot requires the casino operators to immediately get your name, address, and Social Security number so your winnings can be reported to the IRS.  When you travel to any casino, make sure to carry your Social Security card and a photo ID (like a driver's license).  Don't forget to keep these important pieces of information in a secure place.  If you do win big, consider cutting your trip short for two reasons.  First, so you don't blow your winnings on more gambling; and second, so you don't attract unwanted attention.  Plus, you should never leave large amounts of money in your hotel room; but you don't want to keep it all in your wallet either.

Some travel tips provided by Travel In The Main | Travel specials provided by TravelAgentSpecials.com