This was the 13th(!) trip to our favorite adult playground for my wife, Sheila, and me and this is only my second trip report. My first report was following our last trip in December, 2012. We are certainly low rollers, since I usually plan on $300 a day for all cash expenses (gambling, meals, entertainment, drinks, tips, etc) in Vegas.
For this 6-night trip, my bankroll consisted of $1,200 in cash, $800 that I deposited in our checking account for ATM withdrawals at the El Cortez to get their 5% free play offer, for a total of $2,000. As stated, that would cover all cash expenses for both of us. Sheila's bankroll was $560 in cash and, based on past experience, I knew that she would only risk a very small portion of that for gambling. I also had purchased $40 Slotplay.com coupons for us to use at the Palms, so I guess that could be considered part of the bankroll, also.
TRANSPORTATION:
Southwest Airlines, direct, non-stop from Bradley Airport (Hartford/Springfield) to Las Vegas & return, purchased on-line at Southwest.com for a total of $795.60, round trip for both. Both flights (there & back) were filled to capacity, as are most flights these days. We had "B" boarding positions for both flights and were fortunate to get two seats together near the rear of the plane on both. Both flights departed & arrived on schedule with no problems.
We always rent a car in Vegas, since we travel to many of the off-strip & locals casinos to maximize usage of match play and free play offers, using the LVA Member Rewards book (MRB) and the American Casino Guide (ACG) coupons. We also have friends that live in the Summerlin area and we try to visit them when we can. For this trip, I rented an economy car from Payless, through Priceline.com. The daily rate was $12.64 and the estimated total was $134.03, including taxes & fees. When I got to the rental center, after declining all additional insurances & add-ons, I found that the total was $165.18! When I questioned it, I found that Payless now requires that you purchase Roadside Service Protection at $3.99 a day for each day. I'm certain that this used to be included in the daily rental fee, as I've never been charged this fee before. When I told the clerk that I had my own roadside assistance, both through my own car insurance (GEICO) and through my wife's cell phone plan (AT&T Wireless), he said that the charge was mandatory. I suppose that I could have asked to see a manager but I didn't feel like arguing over $24.00. I wanted to start our vacation. We were given a Ford Fiesta with 31,391 miles on it. We added 126 miles to it and it averaged 24 mpg, mostly city driving.
WEDNESDAY, 9/25:
After getting the car, our first stop was at Ellis Island, to eat & to play $10 each and qualify for the ACG $10 matching free play. When we were there last December, Ellis Island had a lot of full-pay video poker, including 9/6 Job & 8/5 BP but they have cut back the schedules to 8/5 JoB and 7/5 BP on most of the quarter games. I lost $13.25 in qualifying for the $10 ACG free play, which could not be used until the next day. I was allowed to use the MRB "spin the wheel for free play" coupon and I was awarded $20 in free play, which I turned into $18.75 on 7/5 BP. For dinner, I used an ACG 2-for1 (2fer) coupon and we both had prime rib (end cuts) with lite beers - delicious! After dinner, I used the ACG $5 table game matchplay on blackjack and, even though I won the match play, I ended up losing $20 at the table. I then found a couple of quarter, 9/6 JoB games and lost another $20 on that.
From there, we drove to the LVH, which would be our "home" for the duration of the trip. We have stayed here many times in the past when it was the LV Hilton and once since they dropped the Hilton affiliation. Even though I had read some terrible reports (on Tripadvisor.com)about declines in cleanliness & service at the LVH, we did not experience that. Our room was clean and the service was just as good as ever. I had received a mail offer of $119 for a 3-night, weekend stay (any stay that includes Friday, Saturday or Sunday) that included $10 in free slot play, a free room upgrade, 2 buffets and a coupon book, which included a $5 sportsbook matchplay and a $10 table games matchplay. This covered our first 3 nights and I paid a "calendar rate" of $39 for Saturday night and $20 each for Sunday & Monday. In addition, there was the dreaded "resort fee" of $20.16 per night (tax included). I know that I've had better rates here in the past but, as I said, we play at a very low level and I don't expect much in the way of comps.
After checking in, which was quick & smooth (I tipped the clerk $5 for her assistance; she was very nice), we went to the room (16-102, North tower, non-smoking floor) and unpacked, then went downstairs to play a bit since it was still early. I played a 5-cent, multi-strike, super times pay (MS/STP) game (I think it was 6/5 BP) and, while it was a lot of fun, I dropped $100. One of our daily rituals in Vegas is to risk $20 on Megabucks, hoping to catch lightning in a bottle. Another $20 down the chute.
At the end of day one, my bankroll stood at $996 cash, $800 checking & $40 Palms coupon, total $1836.
THURSDAY, 9/26:
Because of the 3-hour time difference, I always wake up early in Vegas. Sheila seems to adapt better than I, so I let her sleep while I go down for some early morning, solitary play, usually video poker or blackjack. This morning, I won $15 on quarter, 9/6 JoB. I then brought coffee to the room for her and shaved & showered and dressed.
The first stop was at Silver Sevens (nee Terrible's) where we used an ACG 2fer coupon for the buffet. We like buffets for breakfast, not so much for dinners. The food selections were more limited since the last time we were here, but it was hot & tasty. Not gourmet by any stretch, but sufficient for our needs and it was only $5.60 + $2.00 tip. After breakfast, I played a quarter, 8/5 BP game and hit quad 5's for a $26.25 profit.
The next stop was the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel to use the ACG $10 table game matchplays, which we played on craps. We lost both when I threw a 3-craps on the come-out (partially covered by a $2 any craps bet). I failed to make a pass and then Sheila took the dice and had a good roll, making several points. I lost a total of $12 while she won about $20. I then lost another $20 on a quarter, 8/5 BP game.
Next stop was Hooters, to use both the LVA $10 slot free play and the ACG $10 slot matchplays. All of the quarter v.p. was short pay. Since I was playing with "free" money, I decided to try quarter, 9/6 double bonus (DB) and I'm glad I did because, after a few hands, I held two Aces and drew the other two for a $200 hit! After using all of the free play, I cashed out for $203.50. I then played $10 of "my" money on both of our cards to qualify for the matching free play. Playing 8/5 JoB, I hit quad 9's for a win of $27.50. After visiting the player's club to get the free play (I tipped the clerk $5 because she was very helpful), I won another $8.75 on 8/5 JoB and $11.25 on 9/6 DB. We left there very happy.
We then walked next door to the Tropicana to sign up Sheila for a player's card and to take advantage of their loss rebate offer. I already had a card there, so was not eligible. For new players, they will rebate up to $200 in single-day slot/vp losses, with 50% rebated the day of play and the remaining 50% after 30 days, but up to one year later. Since I couldn't be certain that we would be back within one year, I decided to only risk $100, which, using Sheila's card, I played on quarter, DDB, hoping to hit quad Aces again. I played for quite some time but ended up losing the $100. We went back to the promotional kiosk and got the $50 in free play loaded on her card, which I then played on a quarter, 9/6 DB game. Luck struck again when I hit quad Aces and, after using all of the free play, cashed out for $220. As part of the sign-up, Sheila was also given a $10 table-game matchplay, which she used on craps and lost when the shooter failed to make his point.
The next stop was the Orleans, to use the MRB $10 slot match & the ACG & MRB $10 table-game matchplays. My notes say that we won some, lost some and ended up breaking even on the coupons. I also lost $20 playing 9/6 DB for quarters.
Next up was the Palms, to use our $40 Slotplay.com coupons & the $10 ACG table game matchplays. I turned my $40 coupon into $45 in cash on 8/5 BP and Sheila cashed out $28.75 on 9/6 JoB, so we both profited since the coupons were less than $25 each to purchase. We played the ACG matchplays on craps and my notes say that I broke even, but I don't remember how.
Across the street to the Gold Coast for the MRB $10 slot match, where I lost $5. We used the ACG table matchplays on craps and both won $30 when we caught a shooter having a good roll.
From there, it was back to Ellis Island to use $10 free play each that we had earned the day before, which we both played on VP and got nothing in return. We both had combo platters in the BBQ using the MRB 2fer, and they were scrumptious. The total was $16.08 + $6.00 tip.
Next stop was Tuscany, to use the ACG $5 table game matchplays. I lost mine at blackjack. The dealer would not let Sheila play hers because she could not find the ACG card that comes with the book and which authorizes usage of the coupons. I know that I had given it to her the day before at Ellis Island, but she had changed purses and left it in our room, where she later found it.
We returned to the LVH, where I lost $60 playing quarter, 9/6 JoB and another $20 on craps, using a matchplay coupon that was in the book that we were given at check in.
Bankroll at the end of day 2: $1,260 cash & $800 in checking, $2,060 total.
FRIDAY, 9/27:
While Sheila slept, I played a little 9/6 Job and lost $12. We just wanted to stay close to the hotel, so we drove to the McDonald's on Sahara to eat, sharing a Big Breakfast with Hotcakes, total of $8.28. I spare no expense on vacation! After eating, we went to the Riviera to use the ACG $10 table game matchplays (I forgot to use the MRB $10 table matchplay), which we both used on a $1 6/5 (I know, I know) blackjack game. Sheila lost her matchplay and I won mine, cashing out with a $20 win. I gave them back the $20 with another try at Megabucks - nothing.
We went back to the LVH to rest a bit in the room, then went down to the deli in the Sportsbook where we both had cups of chicken-noodle soup, which tasted like home-made; very good! I played some 5-cent, multi-strike, STP (8/5 Job) and won $7, then played quarter, 9/6 Job and lost $100.
We went to visit our friends, Becki & Franco, who we have known since we were neighbors in Mt. Pocono, Pa in the 70's. Our daughter & their oldest son were playmates when they were toddlers, We lost touch with them for many years after we moved back to our native Connecticut and they relocated to Florida, where they opened their own Italian restaurant (Franco was born in Sicily and is a very good chef). Becki contacted Sheila a couple of years ago and we were surprised to find that they moved to Las Vegas to be near the middle child, Alex, who has his own business and also is somewhat of an advantage player.
We got to their apartment at about 4:00 and sipped wine, ate appetizers that Franco had prepared, and caught up on old times. At about 7:00, we went to the Red Rock Casino for the Friday night seafood buffet. Becki had a 2fer coupon and I used the MRB 2fer, paying $54 for the balance + a $5 tip. The food was very good. After dinner, I played a quarter, 9/7 DB game and lost $20, then lost another $20 on a Megabucks with a very high progressive. We all then went to the LVH, where we met up with their son, Alex, and talked for a bit. He pointed out a multi-denomination spin poker machine to me that he said was new to the LVH and which he said had a very good deuces wild game. It was a version of NSUD that I was not familiar with. I copied the pay schedule and checked it when I got home and found it to be 98.9% payback.
We said our goodbyes and went to our room. My bankroll stood at $1,015 in cash & $800 in checking.
SATURDAY, 9/28:
I tried the 5-cent, deuces wild, spin poker ( 9 lines @ 25-cents per line) this morning while she slept and won $18.75. I brought coffee back to the room, showered, shaved & dressed. Today, we were headed to the Strip for sightseeing and also planned on seeing a show or two.
The first stop was Ellis Island for breakfast, using another ACG 2fer. The service was verrrrry slow and we waited a long time for our food, but we were in no hurry. We both had over-easy eggs, mine with sausage & hers with bacon and all was delicious. After breakfast, I played quarter, 9/6 Job, losing $54.50 and quarter, DDB with a progressive on the Royal, losing another $20. We left our car there and walked to the Strip. We went inside the Bellagio to visit the Conservatory, then went outside to see the fountain show. Very nice. The weather was comfortable (mid 70's to low 80's) so we just walked around a bit, then went to Harrah's to buy tickets for the 3:00 p.m. Mac King show (total of $28.50, using ACG 2fer, including one cocktail each). We've seen this show before and really enjoy it.
We had some time to waste before the show, so we walked up to Casino Royale, visited the slot club, got new cards and a coupon sheet, which included $50 in free play on their "special" slot machines on which nobody ever wins anything and we followed tradition. We played quite a while and it was fun and free. After that, I put a $100 into a quarter, 9/6 DB machine and hit quad deuces (why couldn't I have been playing deuces wild?), cashing out with a profit of $70.
On our way back through Harrah's, I lost $20 in a quarter, Pick-a-Pair machine (Pick 'em Poker). After the show, we decided to drive to Casa Di Amore on East Tropicana to use the MRB coupon for $20 off dinner and $20 slot matchplay. We had never been there before and didn't know if we needed reservations but, since it was only 5:00 p.m. I thought we would probably get a table and we did. I had the jumbo cheese ravioli with meat sauce and she had penne pasta in a pesto sauce, both excellent. With a glass of wine each & coffee after dinner, the total was $57 + $10 tip. After eating, we went to the bar to use the matchplay. I chose to play quarter, 9/6 DB. I put in $20 and the bartender put in $20. You have to play the entire $40 through before cashing out. I played it all through and never hit anything decent, losing all of it.
From there, we drove to Sunset Station in Henderson. We have stayed there a couple of times and I really like it there, but it is so far out of the way that we haven't played there is several years. I bought in for $100 at a $5, double-deck blackjack game and cashed out about an hour later with $155.
From there, we drove back to the LVH, where I played the 5-cent, deuces wild, spin poker and also some quarter, 9/6 JoB and lost a total of $50 between them.
The bankroll at the end of the day stood at $850 in cash & $400 in checking.
SUNDAY, 9/29:
Today was to be another "coupon run" to downtown. While Sheila slept in, I went down to play the deuces wild, spin poker game for nickels and won $74. I also played a little quarter, 9/6 JoB and won another $10, so it was a good start to the day.
We drove downtown and parked at Main Street Station, where we had the Sunday champagne brunch, using the MRB 2fer. The total was $11.88 + $2.00 tip. The food was very good, but it took a long time to get in because there was only one cashier and there should have been at least two. She was working very hard and was trying to get people in as quickly as she could, but she really needed more help. I felt sorry for her. Also, when we finally got to her and I gave her the coupon, she informed me that I had to redeem it a the player's club for a buffet voucher. It did not state that on the back of the coupon (I checked). Fortunately, we didn't have to go to the back of the line again which, by now, was probably 50-people deep. By the time I returned with the voucher, there was another cashier on duty.
After eating, we walked to the Plaza to use the ACG & MRB slot matchplays & table game matchplays. I broke even on all of my play and Sheila won $12.50 on the machine play and another $15 on the tables.
Next up was the Las Vegas Club, using the same coupons as at the Plaza, except that the table game matchplays were $5 instead of $10. After using all of the coupons, I came out $10 ahead and Sheila won $16.
Next up was Binion's, to use the MRB $10 free slot play. There was only one attendant on duty at the player's club and she was verrrrry slow. After waiting about 20-25 minutes, I got the free play loaded on my card. I attempted to use it in a quarter VP game but, when I went to download it, I got a message that said that there was no pin number associated with the card! Back to the player's club only to find that the line was now at least 15-people deep with still only one attendant. After waiting outside the roped-in area near the front of the line for about 5 minutes, another attendant came on duty. I got his attention and told him that I had just had free play added to my card but that the machine said there was no pin and he told me that I probably had to re-set my pin and to go to the back of the line and wait. I tossed my card on the counter and left. I see no reason to ever set foot in that place again.
Next stop was the Four Queens to use the MRB $10 free play, which I played on quarter, 9/6 DB and got nothing.
Next was the El Cortez, to use the ACG $10 free play and to withdraw $400 (my daily limit) from the ATM to get the 5% free play. I was told that I could come back tomorrow to use the MRB free play coupon; you can't use both ACG & MRB on the same day. They have full-pay video poker here but you are can't use the free play on them. You have to look for games that have a "free play" sticker on them and the only ones that I found with the sticker were all short pay. Anyway, I used my free play and turned it into $20 in cash, which I then played in a $1 Double-Diamond slot machine and won another $11. Sheila won $6 on her free play. I then bought in for $100 at a single-deck blackjack game and cashed out about an hour or so later with $300.
We went back to Main Street Station, where I lost $100 playing quarter, 8/5 BP and 9/6 JoB.
We were still a bit full from brunch, so "dinner" was burgers & fries at McDonald's on Sahara - $8.30 (no tip).
Back to the LVH, where we bought tickets for the 6:30 p.m. Trent Carlini show, "The King." I used a 50% off coupon that came in the coupon book that we were given at check-in and the total was $66.90, plus a $5 tip for the usher. A cocktail & glass of wine at the bar was $20, tip included. Trent Carlini is an Elvis impersonator and he does look a lot like Elvis, especially in his mannerisms and expressions. He does sound a bit like Elvis but not as much, in my opinion, as does "Big Elvis" at Harrah's ( formerly of Bill's). We both enjoyed the show and it was worth the money.
After the show, I played the deuces wild, spin poker for nickels again and won $111.
My bankroll at the end of the day was at $1,475 in cash and $400 in checking.
MONDAY, 9/30:
I went downstairs to play while she slept and won another $26 on the deuces wild, spin poker (nickels).
For some reason that I don't recall, I also played $20 in a dollar, wheel-of-fortune slot machine and lost that.
We had breakfast at the Paradise Cafe in the LVH. We both had the "continental express" which consisted of a small bowl of fresh fruit, coffee, large juice and two pastries. I had a croissant and a fruit danish and Sheila had a fruit danish and a softball-sized bran muffin, which she had wrapped up to take back to the room & save for tomorrow. We used two $8 vouchers that we were given for skipping housekeeping services on two of the days and I paid the difference of $9.25 in cash, tip included.
We then went to the business center to use the computer (for a nominal fee) to check in for our return flights. We received "B34" and "B35" positions.
We both went to use the pool for a couple of hours and then went to visit our friends again in Summerlin. Franco prepared a delicious lunch for us and we visited for a couple of hours. After saying our goodbyes, we drove downtown and parked at the El Cortez so that I could use the MRB $10 free play and also to withdraw another $400 from the STM to get another $20 in free play. I used the free play in a quarter, 9/6 DB game and cashed out with $21 and we left.
I went to a gas station on Paradise, across from the LVH, and filled the rental car with gas ($17.41 cash).
Back to the LVH. Since I had won the last couple of times that I played the deuces wild, spin poker game for nickels and since this was our last night in Vegas and I still had most of my bankroll intact, I decided to try playing that game for quarters. At $1.25 per line X 9 lines, that was more than I had ever bet per spin on any game. Well, all the good hands that I was getting when I played for nickels didn't want to make an appearance at the quarter level and I lost $275 before giving up.
We then went to the buffet and attempted to use the two buffet comps that we were given at check-in, only to find that they had expired, since they were part of the package that covered our first, three nights. I didn't read the fine print. We really weren't that hungry anyway, so we both had hot dog from the deli in the Sports Book. After that, I played some craps and cashed out with a $5 win.
My bankroll at the end of the day stood at $1,612 in cash. I added up all of my cash expenses (I might have missed a few bucks here and there) and it was $451 so, after deducting that, it appears that I won a total of $23 for a week's worth of play. Sheila won a total of about $200, so it was winning trip for both of us.
TUESDAY, 10/1:
Up at 5:00 to finish packing and the check out. Stopped at McDonald's for an egg sandwich (Sheila finished her leftover bran muffin) and coffee. Returned the rental car and breezed through Security at the airport. Flight left on schedule at 8:45 and landed in Hartford at 4:30 p.m. We got our luggage & our car and were driving out of the airport at 5:00 p.m.
Places where I was the luckiest:
El Cortez + $252
Hooters + $251
Tropicana + $110
Casino Royale + $70
Sunset Station + $55
Places where I was unluckiest:
LVH - $395.25
Ellis Island - $109
Main Street Station - $100
That's it. Wishing you all good luck in Vegas.
'till next time.
For this 6-night trip, my bankroll consisted of $1,200 in cash, $800 that I deposited in our checking account for ATM withdrawals at the El Cortez to get their 5% free play offer, for a total of $2,000. As stated, that would cover all cash expenses for both of us. Sheila's bankroll was $560 in cash and, based on past experience, I knew that she would only risk a very small portion of that for gambling. I also had purchased $40 Slotplay.com coupons for us to use at the Palms, so I guess that could be considered part of the bankroll, also.
TRANSPORTATION:
Southwest Airlines, direct, non-stop from Bradley Airport (Hartford/Springfield) to Las Vegas & return, purchased on-line at Southwest.com for a total of $795.60, round trip for both. Both flights (there & back) were filled to capacity, as are most flights these days. We had "B" boarding positions for both flights and were fortunate to get two seats together near the rear of the plane on both. Both flights departed & arrived on schedule with no problems.
We always rent a car in Vegas, since we travel to many of the off-strip & locals casinos to maximize usage of match play and free play offers, using the LVA Member Rewards book (MRB) and the American Casino Guide (ACG) coupons. We also have friends that live in the Summerlin area and we try to visit them when we can. For this trip, I rented an economy car from Payless, through Priceline.com. The daily rate was $12.64 and the estimated total was $134.03, including taxes & fees. When I got to the rental center, after declining all additional insurances & add-ons, I found that the total was $165.18! When I questioned it, I found that Payless now requires that you purchase Roadside Service Protection at $3.99 a day for each day. I'm certain that this used to be included in the daily rental fee, as I've never been charged this fee before. When I told the clerk that I had my own roadside assistance, both through my own car insurance (GEICO) and through my wife's cell phone plan (AT&T Wireless), he said that the charge was mandatory. I suppose that I could have asked to see a manager but I didn't feel like arguing over $24.00. I wanted to start our vacation. We were given a Ford Fiesta with 31,391 miles on it. We added 126 miles to it and it averaged 24 mpg, mostly city driving.
WEDNESDAY, 9/25:
After getting the car, our first stop was at Ellis Island, to eat & to play $10 each and qualify for the ACG $10 matching free play. When we were there last December, Ellis Island had a lot of full-pay video poker, including 9/6 Job & 8/5 BP but they have cut back the schedules to 8/5 JoB and 7/5 BP on most of the quarter games. I lost $13.25 in qualifying for the $10 ACG free play, which could not be used until the next day. I was allowed to use the MRB "spin the wheel for free play" coupon and I was awarded $20 in free play, which I turned into $18.75 on 7/5 BP. For dinner, I used an ACG 2-for1 (2fer) coupon and we both had prime rib (end cuts) with lite beers - delicious! After dinner, I used the ACG $5 table game matchplay on blackjack and, even though I won the match play, I ended up losing $20 at the table. I then found a couple of quarter, 9/6 JoB games and lost another $20 on that.
From there, we drove to the LVH, which would be our "home" for the duration of the trip. We have stayed here many times in the past when it was the LV Hilton and once since they dropped the Hilton affiliation. Even though I had read some terrible reports (on Tripadvisor.com)about declines in cleanliness & service at the LVH, we did not experience that. Our room was clean and the service was just as good as ever. I had received a mail offer of $119 for a 3-night, weekend stay (any stay that includes Friday, Saturday or Sunday) that included $10 in free slot play, a free room upgrade, 2 buffets and a coupon book, which included a $5 sportsbook matchplay and a $10 table games matchplay. This covered our first 3 nights and I paid a "calendar rate" of $39 for Saturday night and $20 each for Sunday & Monday. In addition, there was the dreaded "resort fee" of $20.16 per night (tax included). I know that I've had better rates here in the past but, as I said, we play at a very low level and I don't expect much in the way of comps.
After checking in, which was quick & smooth (I tipped the clerk $5 for her assistance; she was very nice), we went to the room (16-102, North tower, non-smoking floor) and unpacked, then went downstairs to play a bit since it was still early. I played a 5-cent, multi-strike, super times pay (MS/STP) game (I think it was 6/5 BP) and, while it was a lot of fun, I dropped $100. One of our daily rituals in Vegas is to risk $20 on Megabucks, hoping to catch lightning in a bottle. Another $20 down the chute.
At the end of day one, my bankroll stood at $996 cash, $800 checking & $40 Palms coupon, total $1836.
THURSDAY, 9/26:
Because of the 3-hour time difference, I always wake up early in Vegas. Sheila seems to adapt better than I, so I let her sleep while I go down for some early morning, solitary play, usually video poker or blackjack. This morning, I won $15 on quarter, 9/6 JoB. I then brought coffee to the room for her and shaved & showered and dressed.
The first stop was at Silver Sevens (nee Terrible's) where we used an ACG 2fer coupon for the buffet. We like buffets for breakfast, not so much for dinners. The food selections were more limited since the last time we were here, but it was hot & tasty. Not gourmet by any stretch, but sufficient for our needs and it was only $5.60 + $2.00 tip. After breakfast, I played a quarter, 8/5 BP game and hit quad 5's for a $26.25 profit.
The next stop was the Hard Rock Casino & Hotel to use the ACG $10 table game matchplays, which we played on craps. We lost both when I threw a 3-craps on the come-out (partially covered by a $2 any craps bet). I failed to make a pass and then Sheila took the dice and had a good roll, making several points. I lost a total of $12 while she won about $20. I then lost another $20 on a quarter, 8/5 BP game.
Next stop was Hooters, to use both the LVA $10 slot free play and the ACG $10 slot matchplays. All of the quarter v.p. was short pay. Since I was playing with "free" money, I decided to try quarter, 9/6 double bonus (DB) and I'm glad I did because, after a few hands, I held two Aces and drew the other two for a $200 hit! After using all of the free play, I cashed out for $203.50. I then played $10 of "my" money on both of our cards to qualify for the matching free play. Playing 8/5 JoB, I hit quad 9's for a win of $27.50. After visiting the player's club to get the free play (I tipped the clerk $5 because she was very helpful), I won another $8.75 on 8/5 JoB and $11.25 on 9/6 DB. We left there very happy.
We then walked next door to the Tropicana to sign up Sheila for a player's card and to take advantage of their loss rebate offer. I already had a card there, so was not eligible. For new players, they will rebate up to $200 in single-day slot/vp losses, with 50% rebated the day of play and the remaining 50% after 30 days, but up to one year later. Since I couldn't be certain that we would be back within one year, I decided to only risk $100, which, using Sheila's card, I played on quarter, DDB, hoping to hit quad Aces again. I played for quite some time but ended up losing the $100. We went back to the promotional kiosk and got the $50 in free play loaded on her card, which I then played on a quarter, 9/6 DB game. Luck struck again when I hit quad Aces and, after using all of the free play, cashed out for $220. As part of the sign-up, Sheila was also given a $10 table-game matchplay, which she used on craps and lost when the shooter failed to make his point.
The next stop was the Orleans, to use the MRB $10 slot match & the ACG & MRB $10 table-game matchplays. My notes say that we won some, lost some and ended up breaking even on the coupons. I also lost $20 playing 9/6 DB for quarters.
Next up was the Palms, to use our $40 Slotplay.com coupons & the $10 ACG table game matchplays. I turned my $40 coupon into $45 in cash on 8/5 BP and Sheila cashed out $28.75 on 9/6 JoB, so we both profited since the coupons were less than $25 each to purchase. We played the ACG matchplays on craps and my notes say that I broke even, but I don't remember how.
Across the street to the Gold Coast for the MRB $10 slot match, where I lost $5. We used the ACG table matchplays on craps and both won $30 when we caught a shooter having a good roll.
From there, it was back to Ellis Island to use $10 free play each that we had earned the day before, which we both played on VP and got nothing in return. We both had combo platters in the BBQ using the MRB 2fer, and they were scrumptious. The total was $16.08 + $6.00 tip.
Next stop was Tuscany, to use the ACG $5 table game matchplays. I lost mine at blackjack. The dealer would not let Sheila play hers because she could not find the ACG card that comes with the book and which authorizes usage of the coupons. I know that I had given it to her the day before at Ellis Island, but she had changed purses and left it in our room, where she later found it.
We returned to the LVH, where I lost $60 playing quarter, 9/6 JoB and another $20 on craps, using a matchplay coupon that was in the book that we were given at check in.
Bankroll at the end of day 2: $1,260 cash & $800 in checking, $2,060 total.
FRIDAY, 9/27:
While Sheila slept, I played a little 9/6 Job and lost $12. We just wanted to stay close to the hotel, so we drove to the McDonald's on Sahara to eat, sharing a Big Breakfast with Hotcakes, total of $8.28. I spare no expense on vacation! After eating, we went to the Riviera to use the ACG $10 table game matchplays (I forgot to use the MRB $10 table matchplay), which we both used on a $1 6/5 (I know, I know) blackjack game. Sheila lost her matchplay and I won mine, cashing out with a $20 win. I gave them back the $20 with another try at Megabucks - nothing.
We went back to the LVH to rest a bit in the room, then went down to the deli in the Sportsbook where we both had cups of chicken-noodle soup, which tasted like home-made; very good! I played some 5-cent, multi-strike, STP (8/5 Job) and won $7, then played quarter, 9/6 Job and lost $100.
We went to visit our friends, Becki & Franco, who we have known since we were neighbors in Mt. Pocono, Pa in the 70's. Our daughter & their oldest son were playmates when they were toddlers, We lost touch with them for many years after we moved back to our native Connecticut and they relocated to Florida, where they opened their own Italian restaurant (Franco was born in Sicily and is a very good chef). Becki contacted Sheila a couple of years ago and we were surprised to find that they moved to Las Vegas to be near the middle child, Alex, who has his own business and also is somewhat of an advantage player.
We got to their apartment at about 4:00 and sipped wine, ate appetizers that Franco had prepared, and caught up on old times. At about 7:00, we went to the Red Rock Casino for the Friday night seafood buffet. Becki had a 2fer coupon and I used the MRB 2fer, paying $54 for the balance + a $5 tip. The food was very good. After dinner, I played a quarter, 9/7 DB game and lost $20, then lost another $20 on a Megabucks with a very high progressive. We all then went to the LVH, where we met up with their son, Alex, and talked for a bit. He pointed out a multi-denomination spin poker machine to me that he said was new to the LVH and which he said had a very good deuces wild game. It was a version of NSUD that I was not familiar with. I copied the pay schedule and checked it when I got home and found it to be 98.9% payback.
We said our goodbyes and went to our room. My bankroll stood at $1,015 in cash & $800 in checking.
SATURDAY, 9/28:
I tried the 5-cent, deuces wild, spin poker ( 9 lines @ 25-cents per line) this morning while she slept and won $18.75. I brought coffee back to the room, showered, shaved & dressed. Today, we were headed to the Strip for sightseeing and also planned on seeing a show or two.
The first stop was Ellis Island for breakfast, using another ACG 2fer. The service was verrrrry slow and we waited a long time for our food, but we were in no hurry. We both had over-easy eggs, mine with sausage & hers with bacon and all was delicious. After breakfast, I played quarter, 9/6 Job, losing $54.50 and quarter, DDB with a progressive on the Royal, losing another $20. We left our car there and walked to the Strip. We went inside the Bellagio to visit the Conservatory, then went outside to see the fountain show. Very nice. The weather was comfortable (mid 70's to low 80's) so we just walked around a bit, then went to Harrah's to buy tickets for the 3:00 p.m. Mac King show (total of $28.50, using ACG 2fer, including one cocktail each). We've seen this show before and really enjoy it.
We had some time to waste before the show, so we walked up to Casino Royale, visited the slot club, got new cards and a coupon sheet, which included $50 in free play on their "special" slot machines on which nobody ever wins anything and we followed tradition. We played quite a while and it was fun and free. After that, I put a $100 into a quarter, 9/6 DB machine and hit quad deuces (why couldn't I have been playing deuces wild?), cashing out with a profit of $70.
On our way back through Harrah's, I lost $20 in a quarter, Pick-a-Pair machine (Pick 'em Poker). After the show, we decided to drive to Casa Di Amore on East Tropicana to use the MRB coupon for $20 off dinner and $20 slot matchplay. We had never been there before and didn't know if we needed reservations but, since it was only 5:00 p.m. I thought we would probably get a table and we did. I had the jumbo cheese ravioli with meat sauce and she had penne pasta in a pesto sauce, both excellent. With a glass of wine each & coffee after dinner, the total was $57 + $10 tip. After eating, we went to the bar to use the matchplay. I chose to play quarter, 9/6 DB. I put in $20 and the bartender put in $20. You have to play the entire $40 through before cashing out. I played it all through and never hit anything decent, losing all of it.
From there, we drove to Sunset Station in Henderson. We have stayed there a couple of times and I really like it there, but it is so far out of the way that we haven't played there is several years. I bought in for $100 at a $5, double-deck blackjack game and cashed out about an hour later with $155.
From there, we drove back to the LVH, where I played the 5-cent, deuces wild, spin poker and also some quarter, 9/6 JoB and lost a total of $50 between them.
The bankroll at the end of the day stood at $850 in cash & $400 in checking.
SUNDAY, 9/29:
Today was to be another "coupon run" to downtown. While Sheila slept in, I went down to play the deuces wild, spin poker game for nickels and won $74. I also played a little quarter, 9/6 JoB and won another $10, so it was a good start to the day.
We drove downtown and parked at Main Street Station, where we had the Sunday champagne brunch, using the MRB 2fer. The total was $11.88 + $2.00 tip. The food was very good, but it took a long time to get in because there was only one cashier and there should have been at least two. She was working very hard and was trying to get people in as quickly as she could, but she really needed more help. I felt sorry for her. Also, when we finally got to her and I gave her the coupon, she informed me that I had to redeem it a the player's club for a buffet voucher. It did not state that on the back of the coupon (I checked). Fortunately, we didn't have to go to the back of the line again which, by now, was probably 50-people deep. By the time I returned with the voucher, there was another cashier on duty.
After eating, we walked to the Plaza to use the ACG & MRB slot matchplays & table game matchplays. I broke even on all of my play and Sheila won $12.50 on the machine play and another $15 on the tables.
Next up was the Las Vegas Club, using the same coupons as at the Plaza, except that the table game matchplays were $5 instead of $10. After using all of the coupons, I came out $10 ahead and Sheila won $16.
Next up was Binion's, to use the MRB $10 free slot play. There was only one attendant on duty at the player's club and she was verrrrry slow. After waiting about 20-25 minutes, I got the free play loaded on my card. I attempted to use it in a quarter VP game but, when I went to download it, I got a message that said that there was no pin number associated with the card! Back to the player's club only to find that the line was now at least 15-people deep with still only one attendant. After waiting outside the roped-in area near the front of the line for about 5 minutes, another attendant came on duty. I got his attention and told him that I had just had free play added to my card but that the machine said there was no pin and he told me that I probably had to re-set my pin and to go to the back of the line and wait. I tossed my card on the counter and left. I see no reason to ever set foot in that place again.
Next stop was the Four Queens to use the MRB $10 free play, which I played on quarter, 9/6 DB and got nothing.
Next was the El Cortez, to use the ACG $10 free play and to withdraw $400 (my daily limit) from the ATM to get the 5% free play. I was told that I could come back tomorrow to use the MRB free play coupon; you can't use both ACG & MRB on the same day. They have full-pay video poker here but you are can't use the free play on them. You have to look for games that have a "free play" sticker on them and the only ones that I found with the sticker were all short pay. Anyway, I used my free play and turned it into $20 in cash, which I then played in a $1 Double-Diamond slot machine and won another $11. Sheila won $6 on her free play. I then bought in for $100 at a single-deck blackjack game and cashed out about an hour or so later with $300.
We went back to Main Street Station, where I lost $100 playing quarter, 8/5 BP and 9/6 JoB.
We were still a bit full from brunch, so "dinner" was burgers & fries at McDonald's on Sahara - $8.30 (no tip).
Back to the LVH, where we bought tickets for the 6:30 p.m. Trent Carlini show, "The King." I used a 50% off coupon that came in the coupon book that we were given at check-in and the total was $66.90, plus a $5 tip for the usher. A cocktail & glass of wine at the bar was $20, tip included. Trent Carlini is an Elvis impersonator and he does look a lot like Elvis, especially in his mannerisms and expressions. He does sound a bit like Elvis but not as much, in my opinion, as does "Big Elvis" at Harrah's ( formerly of Bill's). We both enjoyed the show and it was worth the money.
After the show, I played the deuces wild, spin poker for nickels again and won $111.
My bankroll at the end of the day was at $1,475 in cash and $400 in checking.
MONDAY, 9/30:
I went downstairs to play while she slept and won another $26 on the deuces wild, spin poker (nickels).
For some reason that I don't recall, I also played $20 in a dollar, wheel-of-fortune slot machine and lost that.
We had breakfast at the Paradise Cafe in the LVH. We both had the "continental express" which consisted of a small bowl of fresh fruit, coffee, large juice and two pastries. I had a croissant and a fruit danish and Sheila had a fruit danish and a softball-sized bran muffin, which she had wrapped up to take back to the room & save for tomorrow. We used two $8 vouchers that we were given for skipping housekeeping services on two of the days and I paid the difference of $9.25 in cash, tip included.
We then went to the business center to use the computer (for a nominal fee) to check in for our return flights. We received "B34" and "B35" positions.
We both went to use the pool for a couple of hours and then went to visit our friends again in Summerlin. Franco prepared a delicious lunch for us and we visited for a couple of hours. After saying our goodbyes, we drove downtown and parked at the El Cortez so that I could use the MRB $10 free play and also to withdraw another $400 from the STM to get another $20 in free play. I used the free play in a quarter, 9/6 DB game and cashed out with $21 and we left.
I went to a gas station on Paradise, across from the LVH, and filled the rental car with gas ($17.41 cash).
Back to the LVH. Since I had won the last couple of times that I played the deuces wild, spin poker game for nickels and since this was our last night in Vegas and I still had most of my bankroll intact, I decided to try playing that game for quarters. At $1.25 per line X 9 lines, that was more than I had ever bet per spin on any game. Well, all the good hands that I was getting when I played for nickels didn't want to make an appearance at the quarter level and I lost $275 before giving up.
We then went to the buffet and attempted to use the two buffet comps that we were given at check-in, only to find that they had expired, since they were part of the package that covered our first, three nights. I didn't read the fine print. We really weren't that hungry anyway, so we both had hot dog from the deli in the Sports Book. After that, I played some craps and cashed out with a $5 win.
My bankroll at the end of the day stood at $1,612 in cash. I added up all of my cash expenses (I might have missed a few bucks here and there) and it was $451 so, after deducting that, it appears that I won a total of $23 for a week's worth of play. Sheila won a total of about $200, so it was winning trip for both of us.
TUESDAY, 10/1:
Up at 5:00 to finish packing and the check out. Stopped at McDonald's for an egg sandwich (Sheila finished her leftover bran muffin) and coffee. Returned the rental car and breezed through Security at the airport. Flight left on schedule at 8:45 and landed in Hartford at 4:30 p.m. We got our luggage & our car and were driving out of the airport at 5:00 p.m.
Places where I was the luckiest:
El Cortez + $252
Hooters + $251
Tropicana + $110
Casino Royale + $70
Sunset Station + $55
Places where I was unluckiest:
LVH - $395.25
Ellis Island - $109
Main Street Station - $100
That's it. Wishing you all good luck in Vegas.
'till next time.
