Watch for Exceptions

Here’s some good advice at many casinos these days since so many seem to be going to leased restaurants:  watch for gift cards and food coupons that aren’t good in all food outlets.  For example, some food vouchers we had for Caesars properties in Vegas listed on the back specific places where they were NOT valid including “other food and beverage outlets not owned by Caesars Entertainment. “  But they also named some leased outlets where the vouchers were accepted.  Constantly be aware of the pesky fine print!

I then looked at the “rules” that come with the Harrah’s Total Rewards gift card: “You may use your card to obtain goods or services at participating U.S. merchant locations that accept Discover Network cards and are affiliated with or designated by Caesar’s.”  That isn’t really specific.  So here’s an expansion of one of my favorite saying: just ask… first!!!!

Actually this isn’t a gray area just in casinos.  You can have this problem with any food chain, relative to gift cards or promotions.  I always crave a drink at the Coffee Bean at the airport but I can’t dip into my large “bank” of their gift cards to pay – they are not a “company” store.   (Actually, hard to believe, but I sometimes actually pull out cash for my favorite Sunrise drink there!!!!)

Speaking of Caesars and cards, here is a change in their company credit card.   As of April 1, Caesars is introducing a new Total Rewards Visa Card, replacing the former one.  There are new bonuses and benefits, including a one-time Vegas “Buffet of Buffets” pass for 2 people.  There is no annual fee.  To find out all the details – and apply if you find it suitable for you – go to this page at the Caesars Web site.  Some people who do not get to a Caesars property often use this card to earn reward credits which will extend the expiration date of previously-earned credits.  Reward credits expire in six months if there is no further action in the account.