Poll : 18 June - 01 July 2008

Analysis

A huge and interesting response to our last poll. Results indicate that while a good chunk of people will not be making any changes to their usual Vegas visitation habits, the majority of respondents will keep Vegas in their travel plans but cut back somewhat, whether on the number of visits or how much they’re prepared to budget for their vacation.

While only 2% (178 voters) indicated that they’re finding positive fallout from the current economic climate and will be traveling to Vegas more often due to receiving better deals, our own recent findings indicate that this group may grow in numbers as savvy travelers start to take advantage of the incentives Vegas is beginning to offer, albeit it subtly so far. Our annual (see current "Spotlight" feature) found hotel accommodation at its cheapest in a half-decade, often with all kinds of add-ons like dining offers, gambling matchplays, and even major discounts on your next airfare. With airlines cutting services left and right and gas prices proving a deterrent to visitors who normally drive here, the local market's being particularly wooed, with Strip casinos bending over backwards to lure us from the suburbs with come-ons like better returns on machines, free drinks, and dining and hotel-room specials. Cool!

As usual, you sent us great feedback as to how and why you voted. Here are some of the highlights:

• "Still go to Vegas twice a year. We patronize the properties that offer specials and use coupons more."
• "Being from the Midwest, the air fares are the killer. In the past we'd fly out of South Bend, Indiana on Allegiant Air...Now that airfares have more than doubled and even tripled in price, our number of visits will decline."
• "I’m looking for free rooms. If we get free rooms, then we come; if not then we go to Tunica. Vegas has gotten tight with their room offers compared to other locations and with the cost of airfare, we choose locations where we’re comped."
• "I'm actually considering extending my annual Labor Day trip due to some nice casino offers that coincide with a fairly slow time at work. I'd consider taking more trips if I had more free time available, but that isn't going to happen."
• "I come to Las Vegas 6 to 8 times a year and I currently see no changes that I will be making."
• "We’re finding deals by bundling hotel with airline. Cheaper than getting each separately. Also booking months ahead of trip."
• "I'm intending to spend more time at smaller casino locations (Laughlin, Wendover, Reno) to get away from the high priced Vegas Strip."
• "I am not changing my travel plans at all when it comes to Vegas. Regardless of the economy, Vegas is Vegas and I love it!"
• "Eating cheaper and avoiding most if not all shows…Not a fan of Bette, Cher, or the guy with the red piano. Have seen two Cirque shows and did not like either one. Best shows seem to be the less expensive ones…There will be some belt tightening on Vegas trips – things have gotten way too expensive so it’s time to bring them back down to earth."
• "Actually, I’d add that when I do visit Las Vegas (usually 3-4 times a year), I’m now planning on staying longer to maximize my time there. The cost of driving makes this a better plan. Bargains? I’ve noticed that Laughlin seems to have been affected and/or they are just in the midst of marketing new promotions."
• " Even before the latest round of rising prices began, we started renting a car and gambling at local casinos. We usually still stay on the Strip, (or rent a timeshare at Hilton/Signature) to be closer to shows and dining, and we'll play a little at the Strip properties, but we play longer sessions at local places. The staff, stakes/odds, and comps are better. Due to the comps, we'll even be staying off the Strip next time."
• "Vegas is looking like a bargain