Reservation Queries
 

Can I just check with you all:

If I were to go to a hotel's website, and make a reservation, they require me to pay a deposit of 1/2 the total price.

Now, is that deposit refundable should I decide to cancel my reservation? And how to go about doing that (given that I'm not in the US?)

Thanks

A deposit is pretty much a universal policy at Las Vegas hotels, though most want payment in advance for only the first night. Refunds are generally no problem if you cancel before the hotel's deadline. Which hotel is this?

Its the Mirage. Have not been there before. Is there anything I should look out for?
Oh, and does anyone know how much is parking? Apparently it isn't free.

From their FAQ page:
I don't know of any hotels on the Strip that charge for parking. There are some pay lots near Fremont, though.

I'd have no problem with a deposit at the Mirage or any other big Strip hotel. Regarding parking, it's Las Vegas. Parking is free at almost all the hotels.

oh, that's good to hear!

Regarding deposits, I guess its how its done. I'll read through the refunds clause again to double check. :) So it should be refundable right?

thanks

unless you booked it on priceline, or another discount travel site that specifically said "non-refundable internet rate", you should get a full refund if cancelled before the hotel's cancellation deadline - typically 24 hrs before arrival.

They are down to three "fine dining" restaurants right now during renovations. Their new & remodeled restaurants are due to open in late December. You will be able to charge restaurants at TI on your Mirage room and have them comped if you are eligible - I prefer Buccaneer Bay and Francesco's at TI over any of the restaurants currently open at the Mirage.

Yes, for reservations made directly with the Mirage, they provide prompt refunds to your charge card if you follow their cancellation policy.

The Mirage has one of the more convenient free self park garages (not recommended for people with luggage). Also, like every Las Vegas hotel, they offer free valet parking ($2 tip recommended). You can use the valet at either the main entrance or the side entrance. The valet will call a bellhop who will give you a receipt for your bags. Tip him $5 and when you get to your room call the bell desk to have your bags sent up, also tip this bellhop $5. Recoup these tips by winning at least $22.

Parking in Vegas is generaly free everywhere, including valet. Though you need to tip valet, or they will remember you the next time you come. Each reservation is different, so you will have to read the fine print to see if your deposit is refundable.

I don't have experience with the Mirage, but do with the Flamingo. Cancelled and rebooked three times last year through their website (price kept dropping). Each time they billed for the first nights room at booking. Each cancellation was refunded to my credit card that day. Made for a confusing CC statement, but everything processed fine.

It is standard policy for Vegas hotels to book the first night's charges on a refundable rate to cover no-shows, refundable if you cancel within the acceptable period. The full rate will be billed on non-refundable specials, which is obviously non-refundable.

Parking at all strip properties is free and plentiful with complimentary valet parking (tips graciously accepted). Downtown you can find cheap or free parking through more challenging means, or by having your parking pass validated at a number of properties through whatever means they require (which may be playing at their casino in lieu of a charge).

Oh. Thanks all for your help. I've made my ressie. :) Looking forward to having a good time on the strip.