A major gallery has opened in Las Vegas even as another closed temporarily as a result of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

The Guggenheim Hermitage Museum at the Venetian hotel and casino opened last week with "Masterpieces and Master Collectors: Impressionist and Early Modern Paintings from the Hermitage and Guggenheim Museums," a collection of 45 works from the likes of Paul Cezanne, Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso.

But the Bellagio casino next door announced that its fall exhibition, "Alexander Calder: The Art of Invention," has been postponed indefinitely. It was scheduled to open last week.

Instead, the celebrated Bellagio Gallery will close for the rest of the year because the drop-off in travel to Las Vegas since Sept. 11 has made its operation economically untenable, said hotel spokeswoman Wendie Mosca.

Mosca said income from the gallery is used, first, to pay back the hotel's operating costs. Remaining profits go to a nonprofit foundation chosen by the exhibit's lender. "We didn't know if there would be enough business to make back the operating costs," said Mosca.

Another exhibit space - the 63,000-square-foot Guggenheim Las Vegas - also opened last week adjacent to the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum, with "The Art of the Motorcycle."

For information on The Guggenheim Hermitage Museum and Guggenheim Las Vegas,

call (866) 484-4849 or (702) 414-2440.

The Guggenheim Hermitage is great. We saw the exhibit last weekend.

Good depth of nineteenth/early twentieth century art. I was especially happy to see several Kandinsky's in the collection.

Two thumbs up... as good as the Phillips run that was at Bellagio last year and more paintings to boot.

Check out:
http://www.bellagio.com/promos/blasts/11703_c119email/

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Michael Steinberg
Editor
BizTrip
www.biztrip.com (http://www.biztrip.com)

Thanks for the post! I just booked 3 nights for my parents!

Thanks for the heads up just booked for two nights.

Happy to help. That's one of the benefits of being an FT'er. I'll try to pass these along when I get them. Gee, if I refer enough people, maybe the Belligio will give me a free upgrade?

(Hey, a fella can dream, can't he?)

------------------
Michael Steinberg
Editor
BizTrip
www.biztrip.com (http://www.biztrip.com)

EXCITING!

Thanks for the great info. I just booked 2 nights for me & my partner.

We'll be there 2/25-27.

Anyone else going to be there too?

Again, HUGE MAHALO for the help.

------------------
Patrick A. Inouye

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pallensf:
We'll be there 2/25-27.

Anyone else going to be there too?</font>

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum95/HTML/002991.html

Hi

Can any of you Vegas regulars give some advice here please. Never been to Vegas so I am a bit of a rooky here.

Had first booked NYNY but cancelled this as Bellagio had a good deal for 2 night stays 18 & 19 June (Wed./Thurs) and the other half really wants to stay there.

Was planning on spending 2 nights in Vegas then 2 in LA before coming home.

Have decided that we would just like 1 night in LA and 3 in Vegas so we also want to stay the on Friday 20th.

No space showing at the Bellagio and some of the hotels on Expedia say that "the hotel does not allow check out on the requested date".

Can I take a gamble and just ask at the Bellagio to extend the stay or otherwise find another hotel that is available or should I book before I go?

Thanks in advance for any help.

pmcg

Have you tried calling the hotel and asking?

Didn't try calling them.

Will do this tomorrow from the office.

pmcg

I'd try calling. Some Vegas hotels will only allow two night stays on the weekends if they're going to be busy. This way they get someone in for two nights, rather than giving you a room for Friday night and then not having anyone in it Saturday, since most of their visitors probably come in Friday night, not Saturday, and stay the whole weekend.

Bellagio may be willing to do it over the phone. Otherwise you can take a gamble and try to find someone at the hotel to do it, but you might want a backup plan in case they're difficult.

d

Not to be a wet blanket, but please be aware the rates at Bellagio (or any Vegas hotel) will be much higher on Fri/Sat than other nights. I'd have a back up plan, but almost anything will pale in comparison after you have spent two nights at the Bellagio.

Good luck!

Tried calling but no availability, even tried Amex Centurion who also can't get a room for Saturday or Sunday.

Have booked a back room at the LVHilton just in case.
This was only $90USD so can afford to lose this in any case.

Not too bothered about the rate as it is a special occassion.

pmcg

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pmcg:
Tried calling but no availability, even tried Amex Centurion who also can't get a room for Saturday or Sunday.

Have booked a back room at the LVHilton just in case.
This was only $90USD so can afford to lose this in any case.

Not too bothered about the rate as it is a special occassion.

pmcg</font>


Maybe you will get lucky and there will be a cancelation http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/smile.gif


------------------
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety
deserve neither liberty nor safety." -- Ben Franklin

As Doppy said, most Vegas resorts do not allow check-in or check-out on Saturday. Try again once you're there.

Why the LVH as a backup? It's a mediocre hotel way out of the way. Bally's is just as good as the Hilton, right across the street from Bellagio, and Orbitz has it for $59/night for the whole time you are there.

QL

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by QuietLion:
Why the LVH as a backup? It's a mediocre hotel way out of the way. Bally's is just as good as the Hilton, right across the street from Bellagio, and Orbitz has it for $59/night for the whole time you are there.

QL

</font>

And if you only want it for the one night, it is $95. http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/smile.gif



------------------
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety
deserve neither liberty nor safety." -- Ben Franklin

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Why the LVH as a backup? It's a mediocre hotel way out of the way. Bally's is just as good as the Hilton, right across the street from Bellagio, and Orbitz has it for $59/night for the whole time you are there.</font>

Never been to Vegas so didn't know about the locations or quality of hotels etc.

I'm HHonors Gold so I just pulled this one out of a hat so to speak.

Maybe I will cancel the LVH and change to Bally's then. Will have a look, thanks.

pmcg

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pmcg:

(...)
Never been to Vegas so didn't know about the locations or quality of hotels etc.
(...)
</font>

Check www.cheapovegas.com (http://www.cheapovegas.com) to get an overview.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pmcg:

Not too bothered about the rate as it is a special occassion.

pmcg</font>

I've never done this before, but can't you just refuse to check-out until the 21st? I believe the worst they could do is charge you rack rate http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif

Don't "refuse," just don't check out. I would wonder exactly how high that rack rate for your last night could be though!

If you plan on gambling while at the hotel, get a casino card and then the night before you have to check out, ask one of the casino hosts to extend your stay by another night at the casino rate which I believe is $159.00 right now for weekends. If they have room, I am sure they will accomodate you. Good Luck. Mukesh

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by TraveltheWorld:
I believe the worst they could do is charge you rack rate http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/wink.gif</font>

That could be pretty bad. I remember staying in a pretty standard room at Caesars, maybe slightly upgraded, but not a suite, by any means. The notice posted on the door said the rate for that room could be as high as $2500.

d

We never did hear the end result, did we?

------------------
Michael Steinberg
Editor
BizTrip
www.biztrip.com (http://www.biztrip.com)
A site for travelers by a traveler with 20+ years experience
Please visit my site and let me know what you think.

Wondering here too. Hope you had a good trip, but where did you end up staying on your last night?

bj-21.

They were fully booked for the Friday night and we couldn't stay there.

Ended up just keeping the reservation I had at the LVHilton and stayed there the last night in Vegas.

By this time I had done a lot of the hotels on the strip anyway and I wanted to do the Star Trek thing.
Have to say that I don't think the Star Trek experience is worth what they charge for it but I've done it now so I wont do it again.

pmcg

Anyone has any idea on how to get a room under $300 at this place for Nov16?

Hi,

Currently at www.bellagio.com (http://www.bellagio.com)

The Deluxe room is going for $229 per night plus $20 tax approx ( 2 day cancel policy i think)
Tower delux at $ 299 pn + tax

Regards

TBS

Orbitz is also showing a "Standard" room at the Bell for $229 for that night.

Does it have to be the Bell? Expedia is showing good rates for the Venetian for that night as well.

------------------
Michael Steinberg
Editor
BizTrip
www.biztrip.com (http://www.biztrip.com)
A site for travelers by a traveler with 20+ years experience
Please visit my site and let me know what you think.

sorry folks - I meant the 15th :-(

Hi,

Being a Saturday night , the prices at m,ost hotles will increase ( popular time).

I would doubt that you could get the Bellagio for 1 night for under $300.

( The Bellagio website is showing no rooms avaialble for 1 night Sat stay this weekend)

Regards and good luck

TBS

[This message has been edited by The _Banking_Scot (edited 11-10-2003).]

I was at the Bellagio this past Sunday night, and was really bothered by the current renovation/construction noise, which seems to occur randomly throughout the hotel's guestrooms.

It wouldn't be the worst thing to *not* be able to get in there while this is going on.

GREAT CALL JZ -

thank you!

Sorry, I can't help the topic poster, but since the thread is just "Bellagio", it will come up for anyone who searches for anything on Bellagio. Unfortunately, the topic is about one night and won't do most people any good.

With that said, this is just as well as any place to post about the special at the Bellagio this winter.

http://www.bellagio.com/promos/blasts/nov03_c139/index.html

The Bellagio is truely a Las Vegas experience and one of only 2 hotels in Las Vegas to receive the Five Diamond rating from AAA (the Four Season's is the other). My last stay was at the Bellagio, but I've stayed at all the others I listed as well.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by JeremyZ:
I was at the Bellagio this past Sunday night, and was really bothered by the current renovation/construction noise, which seems to occur randomly throughout the hotel's guestrooms.

It wouldn't be the worst thing to *not* be able to get in there while this is going on.</font>

To be fair, I should mention that the hotel comped my room service breakfast due to the noise.

Comped my room due to my inability to pull a nine when I was dealt a twelve. http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/smile.gif

Itsa noisy there. Bel'o construction in back, Cae'r construction in front, the *****d noisy fountains in front and the helicopters are landing to the north. I even had a hard time swilling down 3+ margaritas at noontime. Burp!

MisterNice

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by JeremyZ:
Comped my room due to my inability to pull a nine when I was dealt a twelve. http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/smile.gif[/B]</font>

Ah, if they would only comp my room eachtime I was unable to pull 9 with 12.

Everyone - thank you for all the replies - lets close this one down

Alas I've already made my plans, but received this in the mail and it may help someone.

This summer, step into luxury with the rich, contemporary design of Bellagio's completely remodeled rooms. Experience this new height in elegance with special Sunday-Thursday rates May 31-September 9.
Deluxe Rooms $139/Night (including lakeview upgrade at no charge)
Bellagio Suites $299/Night
Penthouse Suites $499/night (Includes limo service, VIP check-in and fresh flowers in room)

1-888-987-4227
or online: bellagio.com/d139dm
or bellagio.com - hotel reservations - then enter code d139dm and select dates for "promotional rate availability."

The penthouse suites are phenomenal. Make sure you get a lake view confirmed.

QL

Mrs. JC received one of those offers in the mail on Monday. Must be targeting MGM Players Club (???). She signed up for the Club at Bellagio when we stayed there last summer. Made reservations for August 9-11.

Wow, just as I was thinking last night: "I've got to book Bellagio for my trip in August!"

Not a bad rate. Amex Plat quoted $149 for the plat package (b/fast, well usaully about $8 allowance,a present and a possible upgrade on arrival). But they do not have lake view as confirmable at booking!

Does anyone know if the construction of the spa tower will be a problem during this period? I am hoping it won't be some sort of Faliraki building site soon to be featured on the next Channel 4 Holidays from Hell programme?

The Spa tower is being built on the south side of the main pool. If you book a lake view, you'll be safe from any noise.

The Spa tower is being built on the south side of the main pool. If you book a lake view, you'll be safe from any noise.

Did I read also that the spa/exercise facilities at the Bellagio will be considerably affected during the next few months? (i.e. exercise facilities moved into main building, no saunas, steam rooms, spa lounge etc...).

Does anyone know how bad this disruption is? Are the facilities still ok? How much do they charge to use the exercise facilities (and, out of interest, has this charge been reduced due to the disruption?)?

Boo
(very tempted by this offer)

I just stayed at the Bellagio last weekend and the only time we could spot construction was at the pool--you face the crane and new tower when you are sitting here but we did not hear any noise.

Meant to add...the hotel was very nice albeit somewhat crowded. Checkin took time. The exercise room/spa is an extra $25 a day.

We are going Sept 12-16. I would love to stay at the Bellagio, love to go there but usually stay at Treasure Island. Is this pretty much the best special that they have?

Bellagio is very nice, but it's not spectacular as compared to top hotels elsewhere. I wouldn't pay the rack rate, that's for sure. If I did, I'd feel cheated.

Well compared to the "Soviet-esque" hotel I recently stayed at in Bugulma, Tatarstan, it's a flippin' plush palace! :)

I've got to say it's not too shabby (compare to over the road at some places).

$139 is not bad for Bellagio. You can stay at other places for $25 on the strip, but I personally really like Bellagio.

Meant to add...the hotel was very nice albeit somewhat crowded. Checkin took time. The exercise room/spa is an extra $25 a day.

I believe the Bel has Airport Check in. Did you use it?

I'm trying to make plans for COMDEX in November. I'm looking at getting in on Nov 11 and check out Nov 17, or something in that timeframe. The total rates I'm coming up with is $1504 (199, 259, 359, 229, 229). Any suggestions on ways to bring that rate down? I've never stayed there before but this would be my first choice, followed by Caesars.

If Vegas still considers COMDEX a key convention, prices will be higher.

First, I'll presume your not a "rated" player with MGM Mirage. If you were, I'd say call casino marketing and see if there is anything they can do.

If you really fixed on the place and can get a refundable reservation, you could go ahead and book. You can then watch the hotels web site, along with the various travel web sites (expeedia, orbitz, etc) for better deals.

COMDEX is not the show it used to be. As a result, it is not expected to draw as many people. If attendence looks like it will be low, the hotel might lower rates in an attempt to get more tourists that week. Again, I'd watch the rates closely, especially as the event gets closer.

Thanks for the advice; booking now (with refundable rates) was what I thought I'd do and then watch it very carefully. If there is a chance that I will be changing my dates, think I should book the questionable dates separately to avoid having to cancel the entire thing and possibly re-booking at then higher rates?

Thanks for the advice; booking now (with refundable rates) was what I thought I'd do and then watch it very carefully. If there is a chance that I will be changing my dates, think I should book the questionable dates separately to avoid having to cancel the entire thing and possibly re-booking at then higher rates?


you shouldn't have to rebook the entire trip. considering in your first post they are quoting different rates for different days you should be fine to call and tell them to take a day or two off. if you do find a lower rate tell them that you are not a convention guest and you may get a better deal. I did this last year with a mailer from the Paris and the rate was great. Actually paid less for a paris 'P' room with a strip view than a co-worker at the Riv!

Deluxe Rooms $139/Night (including lakeview upgrade at no charge)

Sorry for digging this back up, but has anyone seen where the "(including lakeview upgrade at no charge)" is documented on the website or during the booking process? I can't see it anywhere....

Would really like a lakeview room so am wondering hiw much of a "risk" it is to try and get it booking through this offer (since I can't see "lakeview" documented) or, to play it safe, and boook a specified lakeview (more expensive) through Expedia...

Thanks,
Boo
(hope that my ramblings made sense...)

The link has the promotion code bellagio.com/d139dm (http://bellagio.com/d139dm)

The website would show you a Lakeview room, at the promotional rate (no upgrade required).

However, for the period we're both looking at, there are no more lake view rooms left :(

I ended up booking via Amex Platinum for $149 for a standard room with possible upgrade on check-in.

I guess the rate was either way too good and Bellagio will be full of FT'ers or everyone is trying to avoid the constuction (which someone said wasn't bad).

Sorry for digging this back up, but has anyone seen where the "(including lakeview upgrade at no charge)" is documented on the website or during the booking process? I can't see it anywhere....


When you book (plunk down one night deposit) on a "Deluxe Room" with the D139DM code, the accommodation section of your confirmation will say "Deluxe Lakeview Room".

And thank you for digging this back up. I cancelled my original res. and the dates I wanted were showing not available (a call to the 866 res. # confirmed this). Now it's showing availibility. ^ ^

JC

What I stated in my previous post turned out to be wrong. I found "deluxe room" availability online (w/the D139DM promo code) and when I called the 866 number was told "no lakefront deluxe rooms showing up -- go ahead and book it online and print out your confirmation number and bring it along with the mailer when you check in".

Worst that can happen is we get a regular room (with the spectacular I-15 & The Palms view) for $139 a night which is $30-60 a night less than what's showing up on their website.

Sorry about that, Boo Boo Too. Will be there Aug. 1-3 if anyone's interested in having a drink.

JC

Hi Gwen here - excuse my ignorance - I am thinking of treating my mother to the penthouse suite at Bellagio (on the summer offer - of course) - if you get this room - do you get VIP into eateries there - is the wetbar free - or to pay for - any other "perks" go with it??

The suite is beautiful but most of them do not yet have high-speed Internet. I don't know if this is a problem for your mother. The minibar is not free. I know there are some packages that include VIP checkin and limo pickup. It should say on the web site if you are booking it through there.

Make sure you confirm a lake view.

QL

If the offer does not specify VIP entry (aka line passes) are included, be sure and ask when making the reservation. If the answer is no and you decide to go anyway, ask for a line pass when you check in. If your staying in a Penthouse Suite, even at the off season rate, I'd be surprised if they did not give you a line pass. Line passes are usually good for the hotel buffets, coffee shop and sometimes the nightclubs. Be sure and read the passes carefully for any restrictions, such as day of week or hour of day.

Last resort: once your on the Penthouse floor, there will be a 24hr staff information/concierge desk for guests. I would ask them for a line pass. If it won't cost the hotel anything, I suspect they would arrange it for you.

I have stayed in the Bellagio penthouse within the last year. These suites are on floors 29-36, so there really isn't one particular penthouse floor or a special desk that I noticed, at least on my floor, which was comprised of Bellagio and penthouse suites. My suite was at the end of the hall, which led me to believe that all of the penthouse suites are at the ends on corners (affording two different views) and the Bellagio suites are along the corridors. You do have dedicated elevators to these floors which require your room key to operate.

There is a hotel concierge available by (in-house) telephone, of course. The concierge even has a toll-free number, and can assist before you check in. You may be asked for your confirmation number during the call.

One nice perk was the ability to call down to valet parking to have my car waiting for me, as opposed to handing my ticket to the valet and waiting downstairs. You are always addressed by name when calling for room service or messages, too.

As for high-speed access, it wasn't available in-room during my last stay, but from the website: We are currently undergoing a major renovation project that will include upgrading all our guestrooms with high speed Internet access. This project will be completed by February 2004. A daily fee will be assessed.

I'm staying there over the July 4th holiday, in a penthouse suite, so I will know more when I return. I'll also ask for a line pass, too, this time. Thanks for the suggestion!

A minor point: The originator of the message is in England. Does the toll free number work there? Does the concierege also have a direct email address?

There is no penthouse concierge at Bellagio. Perhaps you are thinking of the MGM Grand.

Here is the hotel concierge information:

888-987-7111
702-693-8583 (fax)

Open 7 days a week, 7am-10pm (Pacific time zone)

Email:

ConciergeServices@bellagioresort.com
(Via email, you must include your Bellagio hotel confirmation number.)

There is no published number for the concierge other than the toll-free one, but calling the Bellagio switchboard (702-693-7111) should allow them to connect a call to the concierge.

And thanks, QL, for confirming that I didn't miss a dedicated concierge somewhere. Michael's information is usually very good, so I was beginning to question my own experience!

There are actually a few Penthouse suites outside floors 29-36. Suite 28001, on the 28th floor, right at the center of the building, is an amazing 2 bedroom, 4 bathroom Penthouse suite facing the lake. The shape (curve) of the center of the building makes the view truly amazing. I have been fortunate to stay there and it is still one of my best memories :cool:

There is no concierge desk on these floors afaik.

The wet bar is certainly not free, although it is not insanely expensive, though, of course, most bottles of wine can be bought for half the cost at any local store...

There are no eateries. In fact, breakfast is not even included (though it can be ordered).

If you need services such as concierge/lounge/free cocktails, the Venezia tower at the Venetian might be a better idea. But their suites certainly dont compare to the Bellagio suites.

Patrick

My apologies for the incorrect info on the Bellagio conciegre location. I've updated my database.

I believe the 2-bedroom penthouse suites actually have FIVE bathrooms. No waiting. :)

QL

I stayed in their one bedroom suites, 36008 - pretty much in the centre, right at the top of the building, and the view was sensational - Lake front of course!

Very good hotel, great service, and it had 2.5 bathrooms<g>.

If you want to call from the UK, a great service is www.just-dial.com ... the service allows you to call any most countries directly for the charge of a national (UK) call + 50p.

Bose Wave Radio CD player in the bedroom, great cd/vcr in the living room area, electric drapes, and a view to die for.

"His" Bathroom has a steam room/shower, "hers" has a jetted tub.

Just for the sheer decadence I did all my ironing while watching fountain shows :)

Can't really fault Bellagio.

Heid
xx

I'm back from my most recent stay at the Bell. A couple of minor points:

Penthouse suites are not just at the corners, although management confirmed that the best ones are corner and middle suites, as mentioned by the other poster. Corners and middles have views in multiple directions, and also have the TVs in the bedrooms that will rise through the top of the furniture via remote control.
There is a VIP lounge located on the casino level (to the right just before entering the conservatory), which I was able to use, even with the promotional penthouse rate. Inside there are complimentary beverages, including alcohol, and snack items like chocolate-covered strawberries and brownies.
The VIP lounge has its own unmarked, key-operated, express elevator bank, which services the villas and floors 31+.
All standard rooms have undergone recent renovations to conform with rooms in the new Spa Tower, which is scheduled to open in December. As of February, renovated rooms now have hi-speed internet access. The bad news is that it's not available in the suites. As a conciliation, those with access to the VIP lounge can borrow complimentary laptops, which are net-connected at broadband speeds via a wireless network. You must remain in the lounge while using the machines.
The spa is being renovated/expanded as well. One point I remembered is the addition of a meditation room which will be surrounded by waterfalls on either three or four sides (I forgot exactly which, but think I was told four).The reservations manager mentioned that promotional rates will be offered again in December, so I should be sure to call her when I want to return and see the new additions to the property.
I was warned that Fix, the new restaurant, is "open to the casino" (meaning not fully enclosed) and tends to be very loud. I believe they use music at a high volume to cover up the casino noise. In any case, it's not the place to go for a quiet meal.

Hope this helps with someone's plans.

I did the "hotel hop" this trip, and wrote a report (with photos) (http://www.igougo.com/planning/journal.asp?JournalID=33744) about THEhotel, the Prima Suite at the Venetian, and the Bellagio Penthouse. This is actually part two; part one was written just six months ago when I stayed in suites at Harrah's, THEhotel, and the Venetian. It's linked to part two, if you're interested. There's also one about the Borgata Casino in Atlantic City, where I stayed in a Piatta Suite. What can I say? I like to gamble and I like nice rooms! :D

SS

Am planning a 40th birthday bash for a close friend in February and am looking to get one of the Penthouse Suites.

Do any of the Penthouse Suites have two bedrooms? If so, does anyone know what their room numbers are as I'd like to make a specific room request.

I think most of that was covered in post #8, above. Have a great party!

I like to gamble and I like nice rooms! :D

You think?

You think?

Okay, you! You can't pick on me here....this ain't the Delta board! :D

Okay, you! You can't pick on me here....this ain't the Delta board! :D

You don't show up on the Delta board often enough for me to pick on you there.

AMEX Platinum quoted $149/night (Deluxe Room) at the Bellagio for the Platinum Package.

Has anyone had any success getting the Platinum upgrade upon check-in? If so, what kind of an upgrade did you get.

Thanks

Upon check in, you'll get an envelope that contains free breakfast passes redeemable at the pastry shops near the pool entrance. You'll also get a special pass that'll allow you to zip through lines at restaurants, etc.

Roomwise - got a nice, standard (?) room with a jacuzzi tub. Bowl of fresh fruit and goodies was also delivered.

I thought I would add my experience here...

There are multiple types of suites Bellagio offers:
1) Salone Suite (on floors 4-28) at the end of each hall...very similar to a Junior Suite in most hotels...about 50-60% larger than a Bellagio standard room.

2) Bellagio Suite (on floors 29-36) these are located throughout these floors and have 2.5 bathrooms (his + hers and a powder room), and are around 1000sq ft. They have a nice living room and seperate bedroom. These may or may not offer VIP benefits (limo pickup/dropoff and VIP checkin) depending on your rate.

3) Penthouse Suite (on floors 29-36) these are located throughout these floors and have 2.5 bathrooms (his + hers and a powder room), and are around 1530sq ft for a 1 bedroom and 2050sq ft for a 2 bedroom (which case adds another bathroom). The living room is quite large with a entry foyer, sitting/tv area, bar area, buffet, and 4 person dining table. These should always come with VIP benefits.

4) Lake Bellagio Suite (on floors 4-28) these are located directly in the center of the hotel (room xx001) and are one bedroom suites. They have unbelievable views (hints the name) and similar ammenities to the Penthouses (bathrooms, powder room, living and dining area) but are quite a bit larger- 2100sq ft for 1 bedroom. The living room is semi-circular giving you the best views of the strip in Vegas. Also, the dining room table has seating for 8 and the bar area is larger. VIP Benefits are obviously included.

5) Grand Luxe Suite (on floors 29-36) these are like the Lake Bellagio Suite (room xx001) but are 2 bedroom suites. If you are fortunate enough to stay in these, you will NEVER WANT TO LEAVE! They have 2 his + her bathrooms and a powder room (5 bathrooms total). The odd floors (29, 31, 33, 35) have balconies as well. Each of these suites is a whopping 3100sq ft! VIP Benefits are obviously included.

6) Other suites...there are a mix of other suites that are scattered throughout the hotel that I haven't mentioned. If you go to the concierge desk, they will tell you when they give tours of the suites (I believe it is once a day). They usually have a brochure they can give you as well (the suite on the cover of it is the Grand Luxe).

7) The Villas...these are the most secretive and luxurious "residences" (calling it a suite wouldn't do it justice) in the Bellagio. I believe there are 9 of them. Each villa has either 2 or 3 bedrooms and range in size from 2500-3500 sq ft plus the large private patio/garden/large pool and jacuzzi. If you are in a lakeview room/suite and look straight down you will see the villas. Besides the ultimate in luxury accomidations, each villa has a private driver 24/7 and a team of private butlers to attend to your every request. These butlers will even take a picture of your bathroom products you bring and have them ready for you next time you arrive. There is also a private salon, gym, and massage area for the guests of the villas only (complete with private trainers). The only way to access these suites is through a private underground tunnel or through the elevators in the VIP lounge.

VIP Lounge: Located just before the Conservatory on the right, the VIP lounge has complimentary snacks, alcohol, and various other beverages. There is a nice sitting area and a desk for checking in/out and concierge services. There is also a private elevator bank that can take you to the Villas and floors 29-36.

Rates for Salone Suites can be as low as $179, Bellagio Suites as low as $249, and penthouses as low as $449. It is extremely rare you will ever find the Lake Bellagio/Grand Luxe Suites discounted. These suites usually run $1000-1500. The Villas are never discounted and are almost impossible to book unless you are a whale (or Centurion card member). These usually run $5K a night for the 2 bedroom and $6K a night for the 3 bedroom. Of course any of these rooms can be comped/discounted if you gamble a considerable amount.

If you are getting a Bellagio/Penthouse/Grand Luxe Suite try requesting one on the top floor (36). The ceilings are taller and the windows are curved at the top giving you the appearance of a much larger space. The views from here (especially strip view) are unbelivable!

I hope this helps with anyone's future trips to Bellagio...from what I have been told, the suites have not been renovated yet, but should be done so by mid 05. Most of the front desk agents have a book with pictures of the suites and almost always can upgrade you to a larger room/suite for x amount of dollars if you ask at checkin (usually a reasonable rate).

If anyone else has any other questions, feel free to PM me!

:eek:
We are staying at the Bellagio from 3/05 - 3/09 (2005) and can not get a reservation for a 'bellagio suite' (living area plus bed). have called reservations several times to try and upgrade out exsisting saloon suite and they reply they are sold out for "belagio suite."

Just wondering if anyone has any advice on how to get a suite. We ARE willing to pay; and I assume they always have rooms for their 'players'...

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you

Call back and ask for a Casino Host. Explain the situation to them and they may release some inventory that only they have access to. The general reservation line will not go out of their way to "find" availability to suites.

I caught some great Z's in Bellagio a while back and am looking to replicate the beds they have there.

I tried calling the hotel and asking but they didnt seem to interested in sharing which mattress they use or any details in general.

Does anyone know which mattress Bellagio uses or any details about their beds?

If we can't figure it out, will end up replicating the SPG Heavenly Bed :D

Thanks!!
--R

I'm sure the Bellagio will sell you one of their beds; certainly you can also buy an SPG Heavenly Bed (or any of its components, sheets, pillows, duvets, etc., or even a Heavenly Dog Bed) at the SPG Heavenly Online Catalog (http://www.westin-hotelsathome.com/). Maybe the purchase will garner you some points....

Generally speaking, the new hotel beds are Sealy/Simmons/Serta pillow tops with 800-900 coils. Really. That's it. You can pay $2800 at Westin's website for the whole bag of chips if you want...or go to Mattress King, pick up an equivalent, add your own topper, comforter, and T300 sheets, and pocket oh, say, $1300.

The current issue of Travel + Leisure has a story about the current hotel "bed wars" and a nice table showing what most of the chains are using (or will use).

I have 1 night booked at the Silverton late this year. They advertise that they have the same pillow top beds as the Bellagio. If they feel good, I will check and report back here. I was slightly worried to book A big stay. So I booked a Skyauction stay with the $25 off code they had back in May.

They better not pull off those tags!!!

I have been to Vegas numerous times over the last three years. I shall be in Vegas next week for what may well be my last visit for a few years. As such I am keen to sample their Caviar and a glass or two of Champagne.

Has anybody eaten there? If so do you have any advice for a novice? What time of day is best to visit to avoid the crowd, any recommedations and how much should I be expecting to spend?

It is off the main lobby and I would describe it more as a fancy lobby bar with premium appetizers. Caviar (Salmon and Pate) with all the trimmings. Of course it is expensive. The restaurant is open to the lobby and casino. Basically it is an elevated platform with railing. May be three steps up.

Excerpt from Bellagio Web Site as Follows:

PETROSSIAN BAR
Located just off of the lobby, the Petrossian Bar was designed with sophisticated tastes in mind. Meet your companions for a delightful afternoon tea or a splendid evening course of fine champagne, smoked salmon and none other than Petrossian Caviar. To further satisfy your discerning taste, premium cigars are available, as well as vodka tastings!

Open 24 hours daily.

Afternoon tea served from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.


Caviar served:

Sunday - Thursday
12:00 p.m. - midnight
Friday and Saturday
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 a.m.

any recommedations and how much should I be expecting to spend?

Sounds like an AWESOME place for a quick bite. I have been to the Petrossian restaurant and store in New York several times --- great place to go if you fancy dinner for 2 for $1250 !

Anyway, as we all know, caspian sea caviar has had an EXPLOSIVE increase in price over the past 3 years... I myself, a caviar LOVER, have switched to an awesome domestic which is only $65 per ounce.

Petrossian top end Beluga is NOW
1-3/4 oz $325.00 [serves maybe 1-2 people.. though more like 1]
4-3/8 oz $800.00 [really good for a 2 person snack]

the ECONOMY version would be the Petrossian Sevruga,
which is EXCELLENT
which would be around $155.00 for 1-3/4 oz.

Hope this info helps... both of these items are AWESOME.

Perfect drink is Champagne, my preference is Veuve Clicquot non-vintage --- though, any "true" Champagne will do just fine !!

I have been to Vegas numerous times over the last three years. I shall be in Vegas next week for what may well be my last visit for a few years. As such I am keen to sample their Caviar and a glass or two of Champagne.

Has anybody eaten there? If so do you have any advice for a novice? What time of day is best to visit to avoid the crowd, any recommedations and how much should I be expecting to spend?
I hit a $1000.00 jackpot at the Bellagio and the first place I headed was to Petrossian. It is almost beyond decadent; absolutely wonderful :) Recommend sitting inside at the bar and drinking an ice cold vodka with the caviar. They have a great variety of chilled vodkas. The bartenders are quite friendly. Not in the mood for caviar, you can have smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail or some very good pate. BTW, my preference is the Osetra caviar. Costs less than Beluga and is every bit as delicious. Be sure to order some blinis along with your caviar.

I have never been to the Petrossian in LV but have dined at the Petrossian restaurant in New York and the Petrossian cafe at Galeries Lafayette in Paris. Petrossian smoked salmon is absolutely superb! The Tsar's Cut is unbelievably delicious.

There is nothing better than Caviar and Ice cold vodka to wash it down.

There is nothing better than Caviar and Ice cold vodka to wash it down.
I knew we were soulmates ^ :)

I'm going to be in Las Vegas October 16th-18th. The best rate I can find is for a suite at $500 a night. That's pretty steep for a Sunday/Monday night. There must be a lot going on those days. My company is not going to go for $1000, but they want me to stay at the Bellagio because others in my group are staying there. They booked their rooms at $199/night months ago. I guess I should have too.

Does anyone know of a promotion or group code that I can use to book a room on the Bellagio website? I'd prefer to book directly from the Bellagio in case I get comped with my casino play then maybe they'll only charge me the $129 casino rate.

Comments/Suggestions?

Call the hotel directly. Say "I want to book the Player's Rate". You'll be connected to the appropriate CSR who will explain the $129 deal and why you can't get it without booking directly with him/her.

Call the hotel directly. Say "I want to book the Player's Rate". You'll be connected to the appropriate CSR who will explain the $129 deal and why you can't get it without booking directly with him/her.

Thanks for the idea, but I already called the Casino Host office and they would not give me the $129 casino rate because I have not played in their casino before. I told them I had a C3 rating at the LV-Hilton, but that did not matter since the Hilton and Bellagio have different owners.

The best rate I can find is for a suite at $500 a night. That's pretty steep for a Sunday/Monday night. There must be a lot going on those days. My company is not going to go for $1000, but they want me to stay at the Bellagio because others in my group are staying there. They booked their rooms at $199/night months ago. I guess I should have too.


This one is really going to be tough. You don't want a regular room, you want a suite. The $199 rate that they got is very good. I guess your company has a value judgement to make, do they want you to stay in a suite? Do they want you to stay with the others? And do they want to part with $1,000?

Lock something in now...in case it gets worse and keep monitoring the situation and welcome to FlyerTalk.

Welcome to Flyertalk ccerts~!

Why not just book a different hotel???

I'm going to be in Las Vegas October 16th-18th. The best rate I can find is for a suite at $500 a night. That's pretty steep for a Sunday/Monday night. There must be a lot going on those days. My company is not going to go for $1000, but they want me to stay at the Bellagio because others in my group are staying there. They booked their rooms at $199/night months ago. I guess I should have too.

Does anyone know of a promotion or group code that I can use to book a room on the Bellagio website? I'd prefer to book directly from the Bellagio in case I get comped with my casino play then maybe they'll only charge me the $129 casino rate.

Comments/Suggestions?

You mention that they booked their rooms for $199 --- are these also SUITES. If so, that would probably be a pretty good deal at bellagio.
I always thought around $400 or $500 for a SUITE at bellagio was about average.

IMHO, getting Bellagio to COMP a SUITE or even a casino rate on a SUITE of $129 would require some serious black action play.

Though... a REGULAR ROOM is a totally different story....

If your an American Express Platinum member, you can book a promotional rate through their FHR program.

Another option: Book at Bally's, which has a direct walkway to/from Bellagio. Think of it as a distant wing of Bellagio <grin>.

Try googling "bellagio promo codes" - there might be a forum or two such as fatwallet.com that can help.

You mention that they booked their rooms for $199 --- are these also SUITES. If so, that would probably be a pretty good deal at bellagio.
I always thought around $400 or $500 for a SUITE at bellagio was about average.

IMHO, getting Bellagio to COMP a SUITE or even a casino rate on a SUITE of $129 would require some serious black action play.

Though... a REGULAR ROOM is a totally different story....

The casino rate for a room is $129 Sunday - Thursday and $199 Friday & Saturday. Those are not the casino rates for even the lowest suite, which is called a Salone suite (basically a junior suite, 750 square feet without a separate living room area). The good news is that with 500 suites (out of a total of 4000 rooms/suites), booking a regular room and getting a free upgrade is a very real possibility, especially on short stays of one or two nights. The hotel usually over-sells the rooms block and then uses the suites to compensate when the no-shows are lower than expected.

You're right, I should find something fast. I don't need a suite, but a free upgrade to one would be nice.

I was able to find the two nights on American Airlines Vacations for $577 total including taxes. I'm thinking about booking that. My company definitely would go for $577 vs. $1000+. But since I would prepay for the room with AA Vacations, I couldn't get my room comped based on my stay. Which I guess doesn't matter since work is paying for my room.

Maybe I'll get comped couple free meals and an offer to stay at the Bellagio next time for fun!

Thanks for the ideas! This flyertalk is fun! :)

Another tip: Checking in late (after 9 PM) may increase your odds of the comp upgrade.

Another tip: Checking in late (after 9 PM) may increase your odds of the comp upgrade.

Of course, it also increases the likelyhood that you may not get the type of room requested, ie non-smoking, kingbed, high floor, view, etc. None of these requests are guaranteed when the reservation is made and the later you check in the the higher the occupancy, the better chance that something you reuqested will not be available.

If I've paid for 1 night at the $149 summer rate, can I call for the casino rate, if I'm a players club member, or as mentioned above, will I only get this if I hae lost $$$ at Bellagio? What if we get $$$ at MGM?

If I've paid for 1 night at the $149 summer rate, can I call for the casino rate, if I'm a players club member, or as mentioned above, will I only get this if I hae lost $$$ at Bellagio? What if we get $$$ at MGM?

Comps are generally on projected losses, not actual losses. I am sure there may some exceptions to this.

Comps are generally on projected losses, not actual losses. I am sure there may some exceptions to this.

This is correct, in most instances, but they do take into account HUGH or substantial loses [even in very short time periods] --- but, losing 50K in 1 hour is NOT an issue for many people.

Actually, in the Baccarat Whale World [BWW --- I just made that up :D ]; it is NOT uncommon to negotiate a % of your loses to be returned. i.e. a loss of 100K to 250K 1% back; losses over 250K 2% back etc. etc. --- I remember once reading an article that discussed the difficulties properties run into when they compete for this type of business using different whale incentives.

Call casino and get a host assigned to you. Then after a credit check you will get offers galore.

If I've paid for 1 night at the $149 summer rate, can I call for the casino rate, if I'm a players club member, or as mentioned above, will I only get this if I hae lost $$$ at Bellagio? What if we get $$$ at MGM?

Any host at any MGM-Mirage resort now has complete access to your Players Club account. Call Bellagio and ask to be connected to a host - have your Players Club number handy! The host can look up your account and check your daily averages during stays/plays at other MGM-Mirage resorts and can then bring you in based on what that rate of play qualifies for at the Bellagio. If you qualify for a casino rate (or better), they will arrange it. (You didn't indicate what you play - if you play slots, it's on the point system of 1 point/$1.50 - comps are based on points/days earned. I believe tables are based on average bet and hours played at that level per day.)

Virtuoso can offer good discounts on Bellagio suites.... Salone and Bellagio 1 Bed Suites.

If all you care about is room size -ask for a handicapped accessible room - they are quite a lot biger than the deluxe rooms.

If all you care about is room size -ask for a handicapped accessible room - they are quite a lot biger than the deluxe rooms.

They also come with different showers and restrooms. Some have a lingering hospital smell. :td:

New code received by email today: DFALEM

Bellagio Promo Reservations (https://reservations.mgmmirage.com/bookingengine.aspx?pid=190&host=promo&code=DFALEM)

Reap The Benefits

Bellagio has the perfect way to spend crisp Autumn days. Join us September 28-October 4 and October 9-October 13, 2005 for exclusive Sunday-Thursday rates. Upgrade Deluxe Room to Lakeview for $25/night or any of the followoing Suite types Salone, Bellagio and Penthouse to Lakeview for $50/night.


Promotion Runs
September 28, 2005 - October 13, 2005

Offer Expires
October 13, 2005

(Also posted to the "Bellagio Promotions" thread)

New code received by email today: DFALEM

Bellagio Promo Reservations (https://reservations.mgmmirage.com/bookingengine.aspx?pid=190&host=promo&code=DFALEM)

Reap The Benefits

Bellagio has the perfect way to spend crisp Autumn days. Join us September 28-October 4 and October 9-October 13, 2005 for exclusive Sunday-Thursday rates. Upgrade Deluxe Room to Lakeview for $25/night or any of the followoing Suite types Salone, Bellagio and Penthouse to Lakeview for $50/night.


Promotion Runs
September 28, 2005 - October 13, 2005

Offer Expires
October 13, 2005

We liked the bar. It's a good place to sit and talk with people you know or don't know, and actually hear them, unlike the oppressively loud music found at the Caramel bar. Sean Penn was in the bar that evening, as well as Gabe Kaplan.

We stayed at the Bellagio two years ago on our annual Las Vegas pilgrimage, which is coming up again in just a couple of weeks. This year we are staying at The Orleans. Bellagio was nice, but I thought way overpriced. Venetian is a better deal, IMHO. Last year we stayed at Sun Coast. That was a very nice, non-Ritzy place, about a 15 min. ride from the strip, out in golf country.

Next year? What to choose? :)

M8

If your an American Express Platinum member, you can book a promotional rate through their FHR program.

What is the FHR program? I have a AMEX Platinum but I haven't heard of that.

Thanks!

Edit: Nevermind. I've heard of the Fine Hotels and Resorts program ;)

What are the "peak" hours for buffet breakfast and dinner at the Bellagio ?

If I have to queue up to 1 hr just to get in, I will probably eat elsewhere; but if theres such a thing as "off-peak" hours its probably worth a try since I am staying there.

Dunno about "peak" hours but you can try the shoulder hours between lunch and dinner (2pm-5pm). And if you are lucky, you can probably get dinner for the price of lunch. ;)

I know it's not an answer to your real question, but I've never had to wait more than 30 minutes, and tend to go Fridays around 8pm. The line does look quite long, but in my experience, they do a good job of keeping it moving.

Don't forget to ask for a line pass if you're playing! I do believe that these are also available for Poker players.

I believe dinner on Saturdays and Sundays open around 4:30. The line usually starts to form around 4:00. If you come into the line around 4:30 there is about a 15 minute wait. By 6:00 the line usually snakes out past the restrooms which is at least a 45 minute wait. Dinner peak hours is usually 5:30 to 8:00 on weekends.

If you are like me and can't stand lines, do dinner at 4:30 which I consider off-peak time.

Thanks for all the replies.

Dont think I am able to have "dinner" at 4.30pm, so will probably skip the buffet.

How about the buffet breakfast, is there a good time to go to avoid the long queue? And whats the best alternative venue in Bellagio for breakfast if the buffet queue is too long ?

Thanks

Similar to the lunch/dinner change, if you go about 10:45 or 10:50, you can usually have a good "brunch" (one round of breakfast foods, as the lunch dishes are being set up) at the breakfast price.

I've heard that the best deal for buffets is to go 30 minutes before lunch closes and stay through dinner which gives you the dinner for the lunch price. I've never done this since it feels a bit like you're "cheating."

What has been the experience of those who have done this?

I've heard that the best deal for buffets is to go 30 minutes before lunch closes and stay through dinner which gives you the dinner for the lunch price. I've never done this since it feels a bit like you're "cheating."

What has been the experience of those who have done this?

Yes you can go in right before lunch ends and wait it out for when dinner begins but Bellagio has changed the end time of lunch by about 30 minutes so you have to wait longer for when dinner begins which is usually 4:30 on weekends.

Just got this today..
Winter Mailer Offer
Winter promotional rate offer starting at $149 per night. (Sun-Thur) From November 20, 2005 - February 1, 2006.

January 2,3,11,12,29 & 30 special rated at $129$(includes complimentary upgrade to lakeview).

Promotion code D149DM. valid for both online or phone booking.

January 2,3,11,12,29 & 30
(includes complimentary upgrade to lakeview).

Promotion code D149DM. valid for both online or phone booking.

January 2,3,11,12,29 & 30
(includes complimentary upgrade to lakeview).

Promotion code D149DM. valid for both online or phone booking.

Got mine in the mail today!

M8

January 2,3,11,12,29 & 30
(includes complimentary upgrade to lakeview).

Promotion code D149DM. valid for both online or phone booking.

There are very few nights at 129 the majority of the promotion is 149.

Edited for spelling.

Just got an E-mail for Winter Specials.

Remember its for Sunday thru Thursdays
11/20/05 thru 1/25/06

Deluxe $ 159.99
Salone $ 249.00
Bellagio Suite $ 299.99
Penthouse $ 499.00
Lakeview Upgrade for $ 50.00

Code for E-mail or Phone D159EM

Also note on same offer:
Jan 1,2,3,11,12 Deluxe is $ 139.00 with a comp on the Lakeview !

Not bad prices for 5 Star !

bltserv

Yep. Just got this e-mail also. Now I'm seriously thinking of a Winter rendezvous there.

M8

Just got an E-mail for Winter Specials.

Remember its for Sunday thru Thursdays
11/20/05 thru 1/25/06

Deluxe $ 159.99
Salone $ 249.00
Bellagio Suite $ 299.99
Penthouse $ 499.00
Lakeview Upgrade for $ 50.00

Code for E-mail or Phone D159EM

Also note on same offer:
Jan 1,2,3,11,12 Deluxe is $ 139.00 with a comp on the Lakeview !

Not bad prices for 5 Star !

bltserv


Nov 20 - Feb 2.

Deluxe room $149. That's $10 cheaper than the above. Code D149DM.
Call 888 987-4227 or book online using this code.

Also, $129 on Jan 2,3,11,12,29,30

Everything else is the same.

Can this code be used by anyone?

Can this code be used by anyone?

That's why we put them here.

M8

Include any mention of a special occasion in your booking, if applicable, and you may not only get a lakeview room, but a his & hers gift. I had a complaint about drinks service at the buffet the night before checkout, and as a result our meal was comped :)

I want to book a room at the Bellagio-Las Vegas this December, but unfortunately as I am only 20 years old, according to the hotel's policy (I must be over 21), I cannot check-in. So is it possible for a friend of mine (that is over 21) that will be with me to book two rooms under his name (one for me and for him), check-in for both of them and then give me the second room? Or would there be a problem? Any other suggestions if that doesn't work? We really need to have separate rooms.

One person booking two rooms normally works. I'd give their reservations department a call and ask, just to be on the safe side. He can always say that the second room is for his family (who just happen to not be around when he checks in).

I want to book a room at the Bellagio-Las Vegas this December, but unfortunately as I am only 20 years old, according to the hotel's policy (I must be over 21), I cannot check-in. So is it possible for a friend of mine (that is over 21) that will be with me to book two rooms under his name (one for me and for him), check-in for both of them and then give me the second room? Or would there be a problem? Any other suggestions if that doesn't work? We really need to have separate rooms.

He can give you the key and you can use the room, that's obvious. But as far as switching the payment to your credit card or something after the fact (if that's what you're asking), I'm not sure. Just call and ask, they're not going to "bust" you. It's a perfectly legitimate question.

If I were you, I'd just have him book both rooms, leave his name on them, give you the key, and pay him back for it directly. Anything else is unnecessarily complicated.

Always keep the key on you so you can show it if you're asked by a redcoat (Bellagio Security) and you won't have any problems. They usually ask you before they let you access the elevators, especially if you look young.

He can give you the key and you can use the room, that's obvious. But as far as switching the payment to your credit card or something after the fact (if that's what you're asking), I'm not sure. Just call and ask, they're not going to "bust" you. It's a perfectly legitimate question.

If I were you, I'd just have him book both rooms, leave his name on them, give you the key, and pay him back for it directly. Anything else is unnecessarily complicated.

Always keep the key on you so you can show it if you're asked by a redcoat (Bellagio Security) and you won't have any problems. They usually ask you before they let you access the elevators, especially if you look young.

I have had a credit card switched to a different credit card for 1 room when booking 2 rooms, though not at the Bellagio.

Enjoy Vegas :)

Cheers

Thanks for all the info:)

I phoned Bellagio and they said that although two rooms can be booked by the same person (and then hand over the second one to me), according to Las Vegas law there must be at least one person over 21 in each room :( so it still isn't so easy...

Anyway, I haven't yet decided what to do. I think we'll probably just get a suite, which is large enough for both.

BTW does security at the elevators only ask to see the key or my ID also? Is an ID also asked for upon check-in and if near/in the casino?

You may get carded in the casinos, especially the better strip casinos. Nevada law requires 21 years of age for casino gambling or the bars.

It was a BIG problem when I took my 20yo nephew to a conference in August. Everyplace I wanted to go, he got carded and we had to leave. The rules state you must stay 8 feet away from any gambling "devices". We finally ended up at some off strip casinos, where they weren't nearly as picky. But it surely wasn't as much fun.

If you are going to Vegas to gamble, you may have to rethink your trip. The shows (except the nude shows), most restaurants, and other attractions are OK. Gambling and the bars are not.

I phoned Bellagio and they said that although two rooms can be booked by the same person (and then hand over the second one to me), according to Las Vegas law there must be at least one person over 21 in each room :( so it still isn't so easy...

This is true, but... if you are nowhere in sight.. noboby is going to question this. Sort of like the room is for a party arriving later; just make sure your friend puts your name down on the reservation when checking in; because if your key becomes deactivated, and your friend is NOT around, you will be able to get a replacement key.

As an aside, I am always checking into comp rooms for friends before they arrive. I just go to the desk, check in under my name, give a friends name as a guest who is also staying the the room --- and then hand over the keys later that day.

Before checking out, you can ALWAYS settle the balance or part of the balance on another card --- I have done this many times --- though, if you do go this route, you will need to often wait in line to check out, instead of using express check-out from the room; but at Bellagio, this shouldn't be so bad.

Anyway, I haven't yet decided what to do. I think we'll probably just get a suite, which is large enough for both.

This would also work, but considering your age demographic, do you really think that bellagio is the right place. Since it sounds like you have a rather good budget [bellagio] did you consider the Palms or Hard Rock [or even the Rio] -- Of course, being under 21 is going to be a real drag. Unfortunately, in the Vegas of today, you will continuously be carded -- so, basically forget about going to any of the cool clubs.. and forget about gambling... especially stay away from the slots.. if you hit a jackpot for $1200 + you must present ID for the Tax Form --- and if you are UNDER 21 they will NOT pay the jackpot... which would be extremely depressing... so, if under 21, and you must try to sneak in some gaming, stick w/ table games !


BTW does security at the elevators only ask to see the key or my ID also? Is an ID also asked for upon check-in and if near/in the casino?

You absolutely need to show ID upon checking in to any decent hotel, though, your friend can do this; I strongly suggest your friend checks into both rooms, and you just stay away.

Elevator Security is just to verify you are in a room. You should have no problem getting back to your room [basically the same as a 17 year old going back to their parents room] --- regarding ID issues, see above --- Las Vegas today will card you everywhere if you look below 30 years old.

Again thanks for your replies. It's such a pity not to be allowed to do all these things just because I'm a year under the limit. And it's a pity because in my country the limit is only 18...Anyway...

baccarat_king: I have gone through almost all hotels on/off the stip and I think that the Bellagio is the best, especially since this will be a once (well maybe I'll do it a second time!) in a lifetime trip, due to the high cost. Plus I've always wanted to go to the Bellagio, ever since I heard of it :)

Luckily I can afford a suite for one night, since I'll be sharing the room.

Now, because I'm arriving from Europe, what type of ID would they want (just in case they ask for it, as the Bellagio doesn't even allow entrance to under 18's)? Would it have to be my passport or can I show them my ISIC (International Student Identity Card)?

Also, I would have never thought that under 21's managed to sneak it. Isn't there any penalty for them doing so?

Again thanks for your replies. It's such a pity not to be allowed to do all these things just because I'm a year under the limit. And it's a pity because in my country the limit is only 18...Anyway...

baccarat_king: I have gone through almost all hotels on/off the stip and I think that the Bellagio is the best, especially since this will be a once (well maybe I'll do it a second time!) in a lifetime trip, due to the high cost. Plus I've always wanted to go to the Bellagio, ever since I heard of it :)

Luckily I can afford a suite for one night, since I'll be sharing the room.

Now, because I'm arriving from Europe, what type of ID would they want (just in case they ask for it, as the Bellagio doesn't even allow entrance to under 18's)? Would it have to be my passport or can I show them my ISIC (International Student Identity Card)?

Also, I would have never thought that under 21's managed to sneak it. Isn't there any penalty for them doing so?

jkoul,
I'm certain your stay will be awesome. Bellagio is a top property, which also has a posh baccarat room. You "might" want to also look into Wynn... while I would never want to debate the merits of Wynn vs Bellagio, Wynn is brand new... and I know many find staying in sparkling new properties a real draw. Of course, the location of Bellagio is much better IMHO.

Concerning ID, I think your passport is the best form of ID. But, since you are under 21, I don't think you will need to show the ID for very much.

Penalty for under 21 in a casino, I think their are official penalties, but I couldn't really quote the actual law on this. I do know that large slot jackpots will NOT be paid --- so, that in itself is a pretty hefty penalty. I used to gamble in Vegas [table games] when I was as young as 19 --- but, things are so popular now, and the properties have become much stricter about checking id and age compliance... but, you "might" be able to sneak in a few rounds of BJ, especially downtown....

Thanks for all the info:)

I phoned Bellagio and they said that although two rooms can be booked by the same person (and then hand over the second one to me), according to Las Vegas law there must be at least one person over 21 in each room :( so it still isn't so easy...

Anyway, I haven't yet decided what to do. I think we'll probably just get a suite, which is large enough for both.

BTW does security at the elevators only ask to see the key or my ID also? Is an ID also asked for upon check-in and if near/in the casino?

The Bellagio is not officialy in Las Vegas, neither is 95% of The Strip. It might be a Clark County law though. I did check into the Luxor when I was 18. They will card you in the casino though. If you try to play, and win a jackpot it will be null and void, and you might face a fine and/or jail. It happened a few years ago when a 20 year old won a multi-million dollar jackpot at Caesars. He didn't get squat.

I just realized you are from Eurpoe. Depending on when your birthday is, your passport might fool secuirty. In the US we use Month-Date-Year, while in Europe I belive it is Date-Month-Year. So if you were born in 1984, and your birth day falls on the 1st-11th, this *might* work. Try this at your own risk.

I was born in 1985, so I'm afraid not much can be done about the dates! Oh well... :(

It's such a pity though, to be in Las Vegas and not allowed to enter the casino! Hard luck!

Does anyone know if you can earn hotel points or airline miles for a stay at the Bellagio? If so, which program?

Thanks!

Now, because I'm arriving from Europe, what type of ID would they want (just in case they ask for it, as the Bellagio doesn't even allow entrance to under 18's)?

The Bellagio has an open entrance. No one checks IDs and you can stroll right on through the casino but it has to be just that, one big continuous stroll. If you stop, they will be all over you.

I am now booked to go and will be staying with my friend. Thanks a lot for all of your comments :)

Does anyone know if you can earn hotel points or airline miles for a stay at the Bellagio? If so, which program?

Thanks!

When you play at Bellagio you earn points in your MGM-Mirage Players Club Account. :D :D

We're 28 and 30 and get carded relatively frequently, even though we walk up to the tables and know exactly what we're doing, sometimes already know some of the staff, and have pretty well-used player's cards. It's definately changed from just a few years back.

I was born in 1985, so I'm afraid not much can be done about the dates! Oh well... :(

It's such a pity though, to be in Las Vegas and not allowed to enter the casino! Hard luck!

If you come back in 2006, the method I said might get you into clubs, or allow play at table games. Do not play anything that pays more then $1200.

The Bellagio is a member of the "Leading Hotels of the World". Register at www.lhw.com (Leaders Club) to earn points at the Bellagio and other hotels of this brand.

This is my first time to Las Vegas in 25 years and I have decided to stay at the Bellagio in a room facing the Water fountains (not sure if this is considered lake view or not). Anyways, the best rate online is $299 per night.

I am flexible to go another weekend in March starting Wednesday-Sunday.

Anybody have an idea on how to get a better deal?

Thanks in advance.....

You picked a very busy time period. That's the time of the first round of the NCAA Men's basketball tournament - otherwise known as March Madness. 48 basketball games played over 4 days. Hordes of men will descend on Vegas to wager on these games and pack the sportsbook. I know - I'll be one of them.

Throw in a convention or two and college spring break, and there go the room rates.

There are games the following two weekends, so prices will be high for the weekend days. If you're not entirely wedded to the Bellagio, I believe the Aladdin has a good deal going on $79 rooms Sun-Thurs (though, not on the week you've chosen). Check the Aladdin master thread on the Starwood forum for the deal code.

In any event, pick a week before or after, though if you go too early in March, you'll run into the rodeo or a NASCAR event. March is a busy month in Vegas.

I completely forgot about March madness.

I guess that I will have to look for April.

Where/What are the best sources to find
hotel discounts for Bellagio (& Wynn if they exist)?

I completely forgot about March madness.

I guess that I will have to look for April.

Where/What are the best sources to find
hotel discounts for Bellagio (& Wynn if they exist)?

http://www.fatwallet.com/t/63/483868/

This will often show deals on standard rooms. Fountain views are much harder to come by and are rarely discounted.

Often, I've found good rates at Aladdin and, as a Starwood Gold, I can upgrade free to a resort view room, where the fountain view is often as good as, and sometimes better than, fountain view rooms at Bellagio.

I like www.travelaxe.com
The site will check quite a few different sites automatically, and not just for Vegas.

American Express has special rates (known as Fine Hotel and Resort Rates or FHR) for both the Bellagio and Wynn. These rates are only available to American Express Platinum and Centurion card holders.

Although the fee for the Platinum card is $395/year (or 300 for Business Platinum), you can easily save some money off the rates which would pay for the fee.

If your interested in the rates to see if you would save by signing up for the Amex card, PM me and I will see what the rates are.

The Rates also includes a possible upgrade upon check in, breakfast, spa vouchers, late checkout. I was recently in Vegas at the Bellagio and received an upgrade to a Bellagio Suite ^ , and $100 Credit because the Bellagio made a little mistake on ticketing a show for us ^ ^ ^

American Express has special rates (known as Fine Hotel and Resort Rates or FHR) for both the Bellagio and Wynn. These rates are only available to American Express Platinum and Centurion card holders.

Although the fee for the Platinum card is $395/year (or 300 for Business Platinum), you can easily save some money off the rates which would pay for the fee.

If your interested in the rates to see if you would save by signing up for the Amex card, PM me and I will see what the rates are.

The Rates also includes a possible upgrade upon check in, breakfast, spa vouchers, late checkout. I was recently in Vegas at the Bellagio and received an upgrade to a Bellagio Suite ^ , and $100 Credit because the Bellagio made a little mistake on ticketing a show for us ^ ^ ^

That's really nice of you to offer the OP, bhd87.

Apparently the FHR rates are not as good this year. Previously they were a set price regardless of occupancy levels. For 2006, they are a percentage off. There were a few threads about the change over in the AmEx forum. (such as http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=487528) That's not to say that there is no benefit to using the FHR program. It is just not as much of a gonga as it was in the past.

Hey Brian (or others who may know the answer), if you book using Aladdin's website and not SPG's, do you need to call the hotel to get your SPG number added or can you just show your SPG gold card at check-in?

Speaking of websites, man is it annoying the wide price discrepancies that exist between aladdincasino.com and spg.com. I don't think I've ever seen SPG be cheaper!

Hey Brian (or others who may know the answer), if you book using Aladdin's website and not SPG's, do you need to call the hotel to get your SPG number added or can you just show your SPG gold card at check-in?

Speaking of websites, man is it annoying the wide price discrepancies that exist between aladdincasino.com and spg.com. I don't think I've ever seen SPG be cheaper!

I've shown my card at check-in, and in all cases, the clerk has said, "oh, very good, let me see about an upgrade for you."

SPG is lower than alladincasino.com usually only if you can book a AAA rate. AAA is sometimes lowest of all rates.

There's actually a great new promo. at the aladdincasino.com site $49 for deluxe no view room and $79 for deluxe w/ view or the larger resort room CSPSU6 is the code it's for May-July. I actually switched from the AAA rate to this. Wondering if they're giving such low rates due to construction...

There's actually a great new promo. at the aladdincasino.com site $49 for deluxe no view room and $79 for deluxe w/ view or the larger resort room CSPSU6 is the code it's for May-July. I actually switched from the AAA rate to this. Wondering if they're giving such low rates due to construction...

I know we're getting OT with all this talk of Aladdin in a Bellagio thread, so I posted the info over in the Aladdin master thread in the Starwood forum.

Turtlegirl, were you able to see an availability calendar when you pulled this up? If so, maybe you could post that link over in the Aladdin thread in the SPG forum.

Apparently the FHR rates are not as good this year. Previously they were a set price regardless of occupancy levels. For 2006, they are a percentage off.

I was not aware of this, but my last stay with AMEX saved me a few hundred since I was upgraded to a Suite ^ ^ .

Most hotels have some % off for using the FHR rate. Off the top of my head, I know the SkyLofts at MGM offer 10% as FHR rate ^ ^ .

The best AMEX deals are usually in Summer and are sent out as stay 2 get 3 at select NY hotels (not necessarily using FHR rate).

Virtuoso will give you the same rates at Bellagio, minus the upgrade, without the $395.00 annual fee

Does anyone know what is going on with Cirque's "O" at the Bellagio the weekend of April 27? I know the show is dark mon/tues, but there are no shows listed for sale from 27-30th.

If you have your heart set on Bellagio and are going to pay the $299, there is a gift certificate rate on their website that includes a full breakfast for two. I did it and it was wonderful.

I will let you know how the trip goes...

Does anyone know what is going on with Cirque's "O" at the Bellagio the weekend of April 27? I know the show is dark mon/tues, but there are no shows listed for sale from 27-30th.

I believe each of the shows closes for a few days each year to give the performers some extra time off.

We have booked at the Bellagio for end of March/beginning of April. I emailed the hotel for rates and they came back with a much better rate than their website was showing so it might be worth contacting the hotel directly.

what email address did you use? can you reproduce the email you sent? what rate were you given?

thanks!

gleff, I just used the 'contact us' link on their website and then followed the link for emails to room reservations (towards the bottom of the page). In my email I simply gave them my dated and asked what the rates would be.

I have also been told that it is worth ringing the hotel directly - would have done this myself but as we live in the UK email is easier.

If you don't mind stay at the Venetian or the Bellagio you could try priceline. Those are the 2 only 5 star hotels so you will get one of those.

And it looks like those hotels go for ~$125 to $175 / night from successful priceline bids.

If you plan to arrive in the evening or another normally busy time, it might be worthwhile to collect your tickets and room keys at the MGM desk at the airport.

If your booking notes that this visit is for a special occasion (and it is not a peak night) you may well already be put into a Lakeview room, as well as getting a his & hers gift. I can understand the few days' rest for the cast & crew of 'O' - the size and lenght of the show is almost exhausting just to watch :)

For anyone considering a trip in a few weeks, note the e-mail sent a few days ago:
"Join us Feb 27 - March 1... Deluxe Rooms $159/night...Make your reservations at 866 460 0728 mention offer code D1595E"
(Sun-thurs only, based on promo rate availability, sold by now? :eek: )
For the gift certs, phone 866 757 7111.

fwiw today i booked Bellagio for a couple months from now including fri & sat night, $169 including breakfast buffet/upgrade if available/early checkin/late checkout via FHR. so sometimes amex still has reasonable rates there.

We're headed to Vegas for 2 nites and 3 quick days, after my oldest's graduation from college. Last time we were there the boys were 7 and 8 and I know things have changed.

My secretary says the must see show is "O". Last time we saw Seigfree and Roy (sorry about the spelling). And she waited three times before she got her 'must' seats.

Unfortunately the show is only Wed-Sun and dark on Mon/Tues, which means only open date we have is Sunday night - if seats are available.

Any comments/suggestions? Any seat in the house? Do we do the dinner package?

Thanks

The best way to get seats to "O" is actually stay at the Bellagio. They reserve the center/front seats for their guests. I don't know if the dinner package would also give you access to more/better seats, but I would venture a "yes", especially if you're not a guest.

o is spectular-no other way to put it. it's a ballet, a story, it's sensual, it's erotic (no worries for the kids as it done in a way not to offend)

i sat 7th row dead center and i do recommend the lower level of the 2 seating areas (tho more $-our seats tho comped had $150 prices for a saturday night show) but either way, center seats area must. i would avoid the first 2-3 rows of the lower section as they are considered "wet" seats. no, it's not wet like a log flume ride but your might get an occasional splash.

all in all, it's a tryuly wonderful show and if you have the opporunity, don't miss it.

just my humble opinion but then again, i try and stop hockey pucks so what do i know

OT - great sig!

So what about someone who voluntarily tries to stop the puck before it gets to the guy who made it his job to do so? ;)

OT - great sig!

So what about someone who voluntarily tries to stop the puck before it gets to the guy who made it his job to do so? ;)that would be one of my defensemen

I went to O with another FTer (he got the tickets) and to this day I still tell EVERYBODY to "GO"! IT was wonderful - absolutely amazing show. I highly recommend it - well worth the price!

Last month I was in Vegas and went to see O. It was well worth the price.
Highly recommend it.

I just saw "O" on Wednesday night. I loved it and highly recommend seeing it. I would love to know where these people come from and how much they get paid... The performers are extraordinary! I'm still talking about it!!h

Whiskarina :)

I just saw "O" on Wednesday night. I loved it and highly recommend seeing it. I would love to know where these people come from and how much they get paid... The performers are extraordinary! I'm still talking about it!!h

Whiskarina :)
Mrs 13F and I saw it four years ago and would go back in a flash. Cirque du Soleil recruits their performers from all over. "O" was partially choreographed by Sylvie Frechette, and Olympic gold medalist in syncronized swimming from Canada.
--
13F

O is the best performance I have ever seen - period. As far as seats -- I second Goalie's comment about being centered to the stage. When I went 5 years ago we were in the upper level and almost the last row in the theater, but still centered. Even being in the back, it was incredible. Based on my other Cirque experiences, I am sure the lower level is great too, but the action in O happens across such a large stage that the upper level offers a great perspective as well.

O is the best performance I have ever seen - period... When I went 5 years ago we were in the upper level and almost the last row in the theater, but still centered. Even being in the back, it was incredible...the action in O happens across such a large stage that the upper level offers a great perspective as well.

If you have trouble getting tickets through the hotel, check the 'O' seat map for the 'restricted view' seats, which are restricted only by a railing for the stairs to the upper level.

During the time of our stay, O had only these seats and a few in the rearmost row, and if anything, these seats were probably better than most in the rear section, as we had nobody immediately in front, and no real obstructions at all except the rail from the stairs in front, which was not a problem. I'd getthese seats again if forced to get tickets at no notice.

Otherwise, I'd try to get seats in either the front sections or the front of the second section. Enjoy your stay at Bellagio and this show.
If you enjoy a meal at one of the hotel's restaurants with the seat/restaurant deal, can you please post a report on your dining experience?

Thanks, and enjoy O :cool: :p :cool:

Best show in Vegas, hands down.

Remember that if you're staying at another hotel in the MGM Mirage family (not sure if this applies yet to the Mandalay acquisition) - you can work through a casino host on getting hold of tickets (since hosts have their own allocation - using ours at TI got us 2nd row seats to Ka) and charge it to your room at an MGM Mirage property (and hey, if your level of play merits it, perhaps you can get the tix comped).

Without staying at the Bellagio or working through any host, I ordered tickets off the web site a few days before performance, and got front row center seats. During the performance, a clown took me on stage to dance with him.

Staying at the Bellagio... obviously this show gets plenty of acclaim... could anyone point me to a reasonable summary of it so I can get an idea if this is my thing or not? :)

Staying at the Bellagio... obviously this show gets plenty of acclaim... could anyone point me to a reasonable summary of it so I can get an idea if this is my thing or not? :)

Think Busby Berkely with new age music and acrobats.

Ok, I had to google Busby Berkely... but now I think I've got it. ^

Staying at the Bellagio... obviously this show gets plenty of acclaim... could anyone point me to a reasonable summary of it so I can get an idea if this is my thing or not? :)

Have you seen any other Cirque shows? You either like them or you don't.

During the performance, a clown took me on stage to dance with him.
Arrrggghhhh....I was front row centre and wanted to dance, I think they didn't take me as I looked keen. On the bright side I got one of the "Life Rings" they throw out. Don't worry about the "wet" seat issues. Couple of splashes, and in one scene more of a squirt but nothing that would leave you soaked.

I would recomend "O" or "Ka" shows, they are better IMHO than the show at TI, I haven't seen Zumanity. "O" is definately the most beautiful out of the shows I have seen, while "Ka" is more action (battles etc).

If you can't get tickets to the shows you can wait in the standby lines and the tickets will open up as the shows start which means that you miss the first 10 minutes or so. You also probably won't be able to get more than 2 seats together.

Enjoy,
Mal.

Saw O a few weeks ago and must also attest to its "must see" factor. Surprised that they're always able to pack the house, but the reason is pretty obvious! :)

As a bit of a Vegas neophyte, any way to get discounted tickets?

Not to "0", unless you play enough to get comped. They always sell out at full price.

Staying at the Bellagio... obviously this show gets plenty of acclaim... could anyone point me to a reasonable summary of it so I can get an idea if this is my thing or not? :)


"O" is on the cover of "What's On" the Las Vegas Guide this week. Here's what the writer, Megan Riggs says about "O".

"During the show, 82 artists from around the globe perform in, on and above a 1.5 million gallon, 25-foot-deep pool that is the centerpiece of the production. Hydraulic lifts with platforms create a stage that moves up an down in a seemingly effortless fashion throughout the production."

I thought it was like a freakshow of people with extraordinary abilities. It was like nothing I've ever seen before.

Where else could you see 4 skinny girls from Siam stack themselves on top of each other like a pretzel and not look like they are in pain!! My jaw was dropped for all 90 minutes of the show!! :p

It was a MUST SEE! Good luck getting tix!

Whiskarina :)

just saw "O" on saturday; this was my first cir de sol show; it was good but not amazing (maybe i was expecting to much); the stage is amazing; my friend has seen lystare previously thought that it was better (more acrobatics/jumping)
my 2 cents

I have seen O and Mystere twice, both of them with minor changes betwee viewings. Both times I would rate Mystere as the superior show. Would I pay $130 (or whatever the cost is these days?) hell no but that is the beauty of living in here, you never have to pay for anything. :D

To the OP...you have a secretary? Such things still exist? :confused:

I have seen O and Mystere twice, both of them with minor changes betwee viewings. Both times I would rate Mystere as the superior show. Would I pay $130 (or whatever the cost is these days?) hell no but that is the beauty of living in here, you never have to pay for anything. :D

To the OP...you have a secretary? Such things still exist? :confused:

I would have to agree, after seeing both shows, I feel that mystere is superior.

Staying at the Bellagio... obviously this show gets plenty of acclaim... could anyone point me to a reasonable summary of it so I can get an idea if this is my thing or not? :)

http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/showstickets/o/o-Las-Vegas.htm

I will add my praises for this show. I have seen it 3 times at > $100/ticket. And I am incredibly cheap when it comes to paying for theatre tickets.

On the seating I would disagree. While the front row center seats are considered premium, there is some activity that happens either along the m