Had a three-night stay at Bellagio. Deal up front included 3 nights + food/beverage in select restaurants + 2 "O" tix and $350 free play. Was able to snag an upgrade to a suite and limo upon request.
Fly to LAS on Southwest. Not my favorite but the only airline that now flies nonstop to LAS from my home town. Arrived Christmas day (morning actually) from the East coast. Have you noticed how the airlines now pad arrival times? The same flight that used to arrive in 4.5 hours now supposedly takes 5 hours. Then they gush about how they got you there "early" when you arrive 4.5 hours later. Limo driver waiting for us at the Southwest baggage claim. Run out of chit chat with the limo driver since we had to wait 45 minutes for luggage- really?? Irritating.
Bellagio was crazy on Christmas. Holly smokes, they must be giving food away at the Buffet...a THREE HOUR WAIT!! I think I'd eat my hand before waiting even an hour for a meal. What posesses people to wait so long to serve themselves? I don't get it. A child passed out in line!
Anyhow, spotted something I did not see in the VPFREE2 database...Bellagio now has 9/6 DDB Triple Play Spin Poker in .25 denominations ($33.75/spin at full coin), right near the buffet line. Played my freeplay but nothing significant. Put in another $500 and played for a good hour or so, but no big hits. Take a break from VP and played a penny progressive slot- it had four games at once, with a progressive for each game. What do you know, I hit one of the progressives for $2,540....on a $3 bet. Wait 45 minutes to get paid. 15 minutes later, hit the same progressive again! This time it was $1,249. Very nice.
Went to Cosmopolitan...my first impression is that it is very cool. Loved the vertical design and the vibe. I think this place could pressure existing properties like the Palms and Hard Rock. Younger focus, but more luxurious and a much better restaurant selection (although I did not eat there since Bellagio was paying for my meals). Extremely friendly staff. Played $1 9/5 DDB at the "Queue Bar". After 10 minutes, dealt 3 As. On the draw, the other A and a beauty of a duece! $2000 hand pay! Chatted with the bartender...not a clue as to what to do but walks somewhere to get a slot supervisor. The card reader had problems and they could not clear my jackpot. After about 30 minutes they take care of it. I ask where is the high limit room...head there, was one of maybe 4 other people. Very elegant room, and again outstanding and personable service. Spot a $5 9/6 DDB machine. I've never played $5 VP before, but why not give it a try? On my 8th hand, get four 7s for a quick $1250 hand pay!!! Get paid and decide to call it quits. Note that they are still working on the "Identity" players club. Can't seem to access online yet but should be able to view your account via the web soon according to management. If you head to Cosmo, you MUST check out the pool area on the 6th floor...it is breathtaking- it will be a great place to hang out as the weather warms up...full views of the strip while you are hanging by the pool...unique.
Overall a great trip.
TJG
