Originally Posted by gooselee

Some quick random observations/updates/reports from my current Vegas trip - I was researching these beforehand and thought others could benefit from the info:
1. Monte Carlo VIP lounge and staff is great. Rest of the hotel/casino is starting to look VERY worn, though.
2. MLife Plat and Noir are still entitled to many of the hidden benefits, including 3 free passes to Secret Garden @ Mirage, and 3 free passes to Shark Reef @ Mandalay Bay. Apparently it's up to 3 passes at each attraction per month. Both are very much worth a visit.
2a. Based on the above, I would assume that other benefits are still active, such as access to the Bellagio Fountains Brunch and Art Gallery. Haven't attempted those on this trip yet, though I might in the next couple days and will report back if I do.
3. There is still a VIP lounge at Mirage, just to the right of the check in and concierge desks. Nice and well staffed. I talked to one of the agents in there, and apparently access is given to Plats staying on property, and Noirs regardless of where/if they are staying.
4. Plat/Noir cards still grant early access to Mandalay Beach. Also, Plat/Noir cardholders are granted access to the Beach even if not staying on property.
5. Aria is still by far my favorite property out here.
6. The new Quad place that took over the old IP property is very weird, and kind of scary, but serves as a good air conditioned cut through if you're walking down that side of the street. It is a TR prop.