Las Vegas 2020
October 14th, 2020 at 7:06:19 PM
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On Friday I'm heading to Vegas. This will be my longest trip ever--7 (comped) nights across 4 properties. 3 on the Strip and 1 downtown. In retrospect, I could have booked in a more sensible way and stayed the same number of nights in 3 properties. But oh well.
Several of the things I typically like to do in Vegas--most notably go to a show and daily buffets--aren't really possible. I did RSVP for the Wicked Spoon buffet on Sunday. I've never been there and looking forward to it. I strongly prefer cafeteria style to no buffet at all. If it's good, I'll probably go back another day.
In light of the changes, I'm looking at this as an opportunity to do more of the things I never bothered to do before--like sit by the pool (weather looks to be pleasant mid-high 80s) and try actual restaurants not in casinos (like Peppermill and some of the places downtown, like Pizza Rock or Le Thai). The Mob Museum looks to be open as well. At a minimum, it'll be nice to not have to think about work for a week.
I'm sure plans will change, but I'm generally hoping to spend most of my gambling time at: (1) craps, (2) poker (3) VP, (4) Tiles, (5) BJ. And I'll make some sports bets along the way.
I also enjoy doing the ACG coupon runs. I've never been to Ellis Island or OYO/Hooters so those may be worth a trip this time to use some coupons and see what they're like--in particular I'd like to visit Ellis Island.
I'll try to post once or twice a day while I'm there.
Several of the things I typically like to do in Vegas--most notably go to a show and daily buffets--aren't really possible. I did RSVP for the Wicked Spoon buffet on Sunday. I've never been there and looking forward to it. I strongly prefer cafeteria style to no buffet at all. If it's good, I'll probably go back another day.
In light of the changes, I'm looking at this as an opportunity to do more of the things I never bothered to do before--like sit by the pool (weather looks to be pleasant mid-high 80s) and try actual restaurants not in casinos (like Peppermill and some of the places downtown, like Pizza Rock or Le Thai). The Mob Museum looks to be open as well. At a minimum, it'll be nice to not have to think about work for a week.
I'm sure plans will change, but I'm generally hoping to spend most of my gambling time at: (1) craps, (2) poker (3) VP, (4) Tiles, (5) BJ. And I'll make some sports bets along the way.
I also enjoy doing the ACG coupon runs. I've never been to Ellis Island or OYO/Hooters so those may be worth a trip this time to use some coupons and see what they're like--in particular I'd like to visit Ellis Island.
I'll try to post once or twice a day while I'm there.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 14th, 2020 at 7:20:37 PM
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Quote: TinMan
I also enjoy doing the ACG coupon runs. I've never been to Ellis Island or OYO/Hooters so those may be worth a trip this time to use some coupons and see what they're like--in particular I'd like to visit Ellis Island.
I'll try to post once or twice a day while I'm there.
Is OYO back open?
At my age, a "Life In Prison" sentence is not much of a deterrent.
October 14th, 2020 at 7:44:20 PM
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You should have waited a couple of weeks. The Circa will be opening up.
October 14th, 2020 at 8:18:23 PM
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Quote: VegasriderYou should have waited a couple of weeks. The Circa will be opening up.
For a few personal reasons, this worked out as the best option for me. I’m not all that excited by the idea of going to Circa right as it opens anyway. It’ll still be there for a future trip.
Unrelated, but Circa makes me think of Circus Circus. Probably not what they were hoping for.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 14th, 2020 at 8:37:40 PM
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Quote: DRichIs OYO back open?
October 14th, 2020 at 9:15:18 PM
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Quote: TinManOn Friday I'm heading to Vegas. This will be my longest trip ever--7 (comped) nights across 4 properties. 3 on the Strip and 1 downtown. In retrospect, I could have booked in a more sensible way and stayed the same number of nights in 3 properties. But oh well.
Several of the things I typically like to do in Vegas--most notably go to a show and daily buffets--aren't really possible. I did RSVP for the Wicked Spoon buffet on Sunday. I've never been there and looking forward to it. I strongly prefer cafeteria style to no buffet at all. If it's good, I'll probably go back another day.
In light of the changes, I'm looking at this as an opportunity to do more of the things I never bothered to do before--like sit by the pool (weather looks to be pleasant mid-high 80s) and try actual restaurants not in casinos (like Peppermill and some of the places downtown, like Pizza Rock or Le Thai). The Mob Museum looks to be open as well. At a minimum, it'll be nice to not have to think about work for a week.
I'm sure plans will change, but I'm generally hoping to spend most of my gambling time at: (1) craps, (2) poker (3) VP, (4) Tiles, (5) BJ. And I'll make some sports bets along the way.
I also enjoy doing the ACG coupon runs. I've never been to Ellis Island or OYO/Hooters so those may be worth a trip this time to use some coupons and see what they're like--in particular I'd like to visit Ellis Island.
I'll try to post once or twice a day while I'm there.
I really enjoy pizza rock. Been there twice and its quality pizza. They have a good family deal for a huge pizza, meatballs, and garlic bread.
October 15th, 2020 at 1:38:17 AM
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Quote: Viper21I really enjoy pizza rock. Been there twice and its quality pizza. They have a good family deal for a huge pizza, meatballs, and garlic bread.
I ate at Pizza Rock this week. It was only the second time I have eaten there. The pizza was crap. Flimsy and falling apart. I much prefer the pizza at Pop up Pizza inside the Plaza.
I only went to Pizza Rock because you are supposed to be able to pay with points from The D and I have a ton of points. Unfortunately the guy at Pizza Rock couldn't figure out out paying with points works, so I ended up paying cash anyway. While I was waiting I did read about their homemade meatballs and garlic bread. I might go back just to give that a try.
October 15th, 2020 at 11:26:02 AM
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Quote: kewljI ate at Pizza Rock this week. It was only the second time I have eaten there. The pizza was crap. Flimsy and falling apart. I much prefer the pizza at Pop up Pizza inside the Plaza.
I only went to Pizza Rock because you are supposed to be able to pay with points from The D and I have a ton of points. Unfortunately the guy at Pizza Rock couldn't figure out out paying with points works, so I ended up paying cash anyway. While I was waiting I did read about their homemade meatballs and garlic bread. I might go back just to give that a try.
Really? I would put it on par with pop up pizza but I've only been there once. The family deal at pizza rock makes it way more bang for your buck than pop up but maybe I value quantity over slightly less quality.
October 15th, 2020 at 11:39:14 AM
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I didn’t really care for pop up.
October 15th, 2020 at 6:07:28 PM
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I was in Vegas like 3 weeks ago. Sept 24-28. Stayed northern strip. Restaurants and bars were okay with you not wearing a mask so long as you were at your table, with the exception of bartop gaming. Partitions at table games were non-existant. Only place we got static about entering was we wanted to have a drink at the top of the Strat and got turned back by security. Gaming is limited to 3 spots at table games and 6 spots at craps. I didnt mind this as I don't like playing at a table of 7 anyways. The pool was the stupidest thing though. Masks required unless in the pool which kind of forced everyone into the pool
A flute with no holes is not a flute, a donut with no holes is a danish
October 15th, 2020 at 7:37:41 PM
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Quote: TinMan
Unrelated, but Circa makes me think of Circus Circus. Probably not what they were hoping for.
Yeah, completely opposite. Circa the only adults only hotel in Vegas. No kids allowed even in the hotel rooms.
October 17th, 2020 at 2:17:14 AM
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Day 1
I expected my flight in to be delayed because it rained all day in NY. But no issues. Flight left on time. Delta. Maybe 60% full. Middle seats empty and some rows only had 1 person. No meal but they twice handed out a snack pack with water, Cheez Its and a granola bar.
Landed and got an uber. Official time said 11 minute wait but it was closer to 15 min wait. Checked into Flamingo by 9pm. Everyone was pushed to used kiosk. Temperature checks done for guests. Casino itself looks like it’s mid-construction. Several walls look to be temporary. Layout feels all wrong. I’ll see More of it tomorrow but so far I’m not impressed. Room itself is clean and spacious. Safe in the room but no coffee maker. Technically have a strip view but it’s a low floor so i don’t see anything too interesting.
Unpacked my things and walked to the food court. Used a BOGO ACG coupon for pizza. Wasn’t stellar by any means but after a flight $8 for 2 slices was great. Walked to Harrahs and found the tiles table. Played for 3ish hours. Up $175 to start. Then lost it all plus $25. Made a comeback and cashed out up $125. Dealers were pleasant especially one guy who was very talkative and showed me some more delivery setups. Another bonus was it slowed down the game tremendously while we chatted. It was 1:1 80% of the time. Another guy sat down for a bit and then felted and left. Drink service was quick. Game itself is So much better than Atlantic City where: (1) you can’t touch the tiles to set the delivery and (2) the second you sit down 4 other people join. Back to the room and headed to bed.
I expected my flight in to be delayed because it rained all day in NY. But no issues. Flight left on time. Delta. Maybe 60% full. Middle seats empty and some rows only had 1 person. No meal but they twice handed out a snack pack with water, Cheez Its and a granola bar.
Landed and got an uber. Official time said 11 minute wait but it was closer to 15 min wait. Checked into Flamingo by 9pm. Everyone was pushed to used kiosk. Temperature checks done for guests. Casino itself looks like it’s mid-construction. Several walls look to be temporary. Layout feels all wrong. I’ll see More of it tomorrow but so far I’m not impressed. Room itself is clean and spacious. Safe in the room but no coffee maker. Technically have a strip view but it’s a low floor so i don’t see anything too interesting.
Unpacked my things and walked to the food court. Used a BOGO ACG coupon for pizza. Wasn’t stellar by any means but after a flight $8 for 2 slices was great. Walked to Harrahs and found the tiles table. Played for 3ish hours. Up $175 to start. Then lost it all plus $25. Made a comeback and cashed out up $125. Dealers were pleasant especially one guy who was very talkative and showed me some more delivery setups. Another bonus was it slowed down the game tremendously while we chatted. It was 1:1 80% of the time. Another guy sat down for a bit and then felted and left. Drink service was quick. Game itself is So much better than Atlantic City where: (1) you can’t touch the tiles to set the delivery and (2) the second you sit down 4 other people join. Back to the room and headed to bed.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 17th, 2020 at 10:34:36 AM
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Day 2A
Woke up at 7 local time. All craps tables at Flamingo, Harrahs and Linq $15. At $25 you could get 3/2 BJ. There is a $50 3/2 H17 game that looks to be single deck at Flamingo. Harrahs has a double deck game for $25. Too bad Cromwell closed. One of my favorite strip properties. Walked over to Bally’s. Again, craps was $15. Most of the food court places opened about an hour after I arrived. Decided to try to find something to play. Found a $15 3/2 game, with LS. 8 decks. Not a bad game given the alternatives. Unfortunately, lost $240 flat betting $15. No good. Food court opened and grabbed some food with ACG BOGO. Stuffed now. Expensive hour wait. Oh well. Heading to parkMGM to use my slots match play.
Woke up at 7 local time. All craps tables at Flamingo, Harrahs and Linq $15. At $25 you could get 3/2 BJ. There is a $50 3/2 H17 game that looks to be single deck at Flamingo. Harrahs has a double deck game for $25. Too bad Cromwell closed. One of my favorite strip properties. Walked over to Bally’s. Again, craps was $15. Most of the food court places opened about an hour after I arrived. Decided to try to find something to play. Found a $15 3/2 game, with LS. 8 decks. Not a bad game given the alternatives. Unfortunately, lost $240 flat betting $15. No good. Food court opened and grabbed some food with ACG BOGO. Stuffed now. Expensive hour wait. Oh well. Heading to parkMGM to use my slots match play.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 17th, 2020 at 11:08:16 AM
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Quote: TinManDay 2A
Woke up at 7 local time. All craps tables at Flamingo, Harrahs and Linq $15. At $25 you could get 3/2 BJ. There is a $50 3/2 H17 game that looks to be single deck at Flamingo. Harrahs has a double deck game for $25. Too bad Cromwell closed. One of my favorite strip properties. Walked over to Bally’s. Again, craps was $15. Most of the food court places opened about an hour after I arrived. Decided to try to find something to play. Found a $15 3/2 game, with LS. 8 decks. Not a bad game given the alternatives. Unfortunately, lost $240 flat betting $15. No good. Food court opened and grabbed some food with ACG BOGO. Stuffed now. Expensive hour wait. Oh well. Heading to parkMGM to use my slots match play.
I stayed at TI 3 weeks ago on a Thursday- Monday trip. There was a $15 double deck game there with good rules
A flute with no holes is not a flute, a donut with no holes is a danish
October 17th, 2020 at 3:42:14 PM
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Good that i dont have cromwell chips.
Pray for protection from enemies and witchcraft.
October 17th, 2020 at 4:03:09 PM
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Day 2B
Walked from Ballys of Ellis Island. ACG got me $10 match play (lost), plus tshirt (can’t complain) and I believe one more promo that got me $20 free play for $10 in VP. They had 96 JOB for $1. Got a brewery beer—it was very good. Won $75 or so. Played some $5 craps and lost $65.
One interesting story—table had 3 per side. When the dice are out and shooter right about to throw, guy walks up and yells “$5 Yo” and tossed $5. Base dealer called it without looking up. Roll was 11. Then another dealer realized it was a new player and at first didn’t know if they should pay it off since beyond 3 per side. Box came over and said pay the bet and down. Guy couldn’t bet more but got paid off on the Yo. Seemed like a very fair result. He was happy and the game moved on.
Walked from Ballys of Ellis Island. ACG got me $10 match play (lost), plus tshirt (can’t complain) and I believe one more promo that got me $20 free play for $10 in VP. They had 96 JOB for $1. Got a brewery beer—it was very good. Won $75 or so. Played some $5 craps and lost $65.
One interesting story—table had 3 per side. When the dice are out and shooter right about to throw, guy walks up and yells “$5 Yo” and tossed $5. Base dealer called it without looking up. Roll was 11. Then another dealer realized it was a new player and at first didn’t know if they should pay it off since beyond 3 per side. Box came over and said pay the bet and down. Guy couldn’t bet more but got paid off on the Yo. Seemed like a very fair result. He was happy and the game moved on.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 17th, 2020 at 4:09:12 PM
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Quote: jjjooogggGood that i dont have cromwell chips.
Honestly if you did, Caesars' properties would probably honor. Also, based upon their website, looks like it's about ready to open end of this month. But who knows? I enjoy that place for the good VP (though it hasn't paid me) and the BJ tables.
October 17th, 2020 at 7:02:01 PM
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Day 2C
Walked from Ellis Island to Park MGM via Bellagio and Cosmo. Tram from Bellagio closed, unfortunately. Played $40 in MyVEGAS match play. Won both. I was told only 3/2 BJ in high limit room. I don’t like Park MGM and left.
I walked to Oyo. They have one area for players club and cashier. Resulted in some long lines. Plus their system requires you to wait on line multiple times for each match play. Seemed excessive. $15 in match plays turned to zero. All BJ seemed to be 3/2. Saw some $5 tables. Then got $10 slot credit (more waiting on line). Took a long time to get a drink. Ultimately lost $60 at Oyo. Overall, glad I made it there—that was a first. But I don’t really care to go back.
Walked from Ellis Island to Park MGM via Bellagio and Cosmo. Tram from Bellagio closed, unfortunately. Played $40 in MyVEGAS match play. Won both. I was told only 3/2 BJ in high limit room. I don’t like Park MGM and left.
I walked to Oyo. They have one area for players club and cashier. Resulted in some long lines. Plus their system requires you to wait on line multiple times for each match play. Seemed excessive. $15 in match plays turned to zero. All BJ seemed to be 3/2. Saw some $5 tables. Then got $10 slot credit (more waiting on line). Took a long time to get a drink. Ultimately lost $60 at Oyo. Overall, glad I made it there—that was a first. But I don’t really care to go back.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 18th, 2020 at 4:47:02 AM
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End of Day 2
Uber to Orleans. Plan was to use ACG matchplay and play poker. Matchplay coupon won. Poker went poorly. Got it in with top 2 against a straight draw and he hit. Down $150 there. Rebought and lost another $150 before walking away from poker for the day. Headed to craps. $10 table. Played PL and $30 odds. Very cold table and lost $250.
Went to Balliwick for the first time. ACG had a $15 off $30 coupon. Ordered the Jumbalaya (excellent), pizza (very bad—undercooked dough and too thick), and a daily special apple strudel with ice cream (also excellent and highly recommended). Service was wonderful. Staff was pleasant and on top of everything. There was a stage and a talented guy playing guitar. Alabama game on the TV (no sound). Really nice dinner. I’ve only ever had food from the food court and buffet at orleans. Balliwick was a pleasant surprise.
Uber back to Flamingo. Driver said “Oh there’s a lot of traffic around that area on the strip tonight. There’s a fight tonight.” I asked “You mean a professional fight or drunk idiots?” He laughed.
Uber to Orleans. Plan was to use ACG matchplay and play poker. Matchplay coupon won. Poker went poorly. Got it in with top 2 against a straight draw and he hit. Down $150 there. Rebought and lost another $150 before walking away from poker for the day. Headed to craps. $10 table. Played PL and $30 odds. Very cold table and lost $250.
Went to Balliwick for the first time. ACG had a $15 off $30 coupon. Ordered the Jumbalaya (excellent), pizza (very bad—undercooked dough and too thick), and a daily special apple strudel with ice cream (also excellent and highly recommended). Service was wonderful. Staff was pleasant and on top of everything. There was a stage and a talented guy playing guitar. Alabama game on the TV (no sound). Really nice dinner. I’ve only ever had food from the food court and buffet at orleans. Balliwick was a pleasant surprise.
Uber back to Flamingo. Driver said “Oh there’s a lot of traffic around that area on the strip tonight. There’s a fight tonight.” I asked “You mean a professional fight or drunk idiots?” He laughed.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 18th, 2020 at 11:04:13 AM
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Day 3A
Woke up early again and played bubble craps. $3 PL plus 2x odds and 1-2 come bets with odds. Dropped $100. Went to a Double deck $25 BJ. H17. Terrible would be an understatement. Lost $350 in about 15 minutes. Went back up to the room for a bit.
Walked over to Harrahs. $25 double deck BJ. Guy was playing black chips and just being a drunk jerk. Maybe $2500 in front of him. Two hookers spent an hour trying to get him to come with them. He kept saying “you need to pay me $500”. Kept saying they wanted to make out with him. This went on for an hour. At one point he kept saying he liked one of the hookers “monkey”. It was really ugly all around. Dealers complaining about him because he was slowing down the game, wouldn’t tuck his card and not wearing a mask. And generally just being a jerk. He left me alone and was slowing down the game so I didn’t mind too much. Then his girlfriend came over but he wouldn’t leave with her either. She started cursing at him and then she left. The hookers kept working on him. I colored up before anything happened. Dealers begging the pit to throw him out. But black action gets you a lot of leeway at Harrahs. I left exactly even (minus tokes) and he was still there.
Woke up early again and played bubble craps. $3 PL plus 2x odds and 1-2 come bets with odds. Dropped $100. Went to a Double deck $25 BJ. H17. Terrible would be an understatement. Lost $350 in about 15 minutes. Went back up to the room for a bit.
Walked over to Harrahs. $25 double deck BJ. Guy was playing black chips and just being a drunk jerk. Maybe $2500 in front of him. Two hookers spent an hour trying to get him to come with them. He kept saying “you need to pay me $500”. Kept saying they wanted to make out with him. This went on for an hour. At one point he kept saying he liked one of the hookers “monkey”. It was really ugly all around. Dealers complaining about him because he was slowing down the game, wouldn’t tuck his card and not wearing a mask. And generally just being a jerk. He left me alone and was slowing down the game so I didn’t mind too much. Then his girlfriend came over but he wouldn’t leave with her either. She started cursing at him and then she left. The hookers kept working on him. I colored up before anything happened. Dealers begging the pit to throw him out. But black action gets you a lot of leeway at Harrahs. I left exactly even (minus tokes) and he was still there.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 18th, 2020 at 11:47:29 AM
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Always some level of difference in treatment of players based on their the player but I can’t stand pit personnel who won’t stand up for their dealers. Occasionally you’ll see casinos who let really sloppy players play and toss them quickly after they tap out.
October 18th, 2020 at 12:04:25 PM
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TinMan, you might want to avoid the northern Strip area around Trump Hotel ( fashion Show Mall area) this evening. You know who was there last night and although he is out of town today, will be back to spend the night tonight, before heading off to Arizona tomorrow, which really ties up traffic.
October 18th, 2020 at 12:09:01 PM
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As for OYO, I was there on a weekday recently and there were 4 blackjack tables open all, $5 min tables. For those unfamiliar OYO pays 3:2 on $10 tables and above but 6:5 on $5 tables.
So 2 of the tables had players and 2 were empty. I asked the pit guy if he could make one of the empty tables a $10 min table and he refused. I then asked him if he thought that was honest being there is a huge sign on the building advertising 3:2 blackjack (as well as on website). He just shrugged me off.
So 2 of the tables had players and 2 were empty. I asked the pit guy if he could make one of the empty tables a $10 min table and he refused. I then asked him if he thought that was honest being there is a huge sign on the building advertising 3:2 blackjack (as well as on website). He just shrugged me off.
October 18th, 2020 at 12:14:04 PM
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Quote: kewljTinMan, you might want to avoid the northern Strip area around Trump Hotel ( fashion Show Mall area) this evening. You know who was there last night and although he is out of town today, will be back to spend the night tonight, before heading off to Arizona tomorrow, which really ties up traffic.
Thanks for the heads up. I was brainstorming plans for tonight so this is helpful to know.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 18th, 2020 at 1:07:46 PM
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Quote: kewljTinMan, you might want to avoid the northern Strip area around Trump Hotel ( fashion Show Mall area) this evening. You know who was there last night and although he is out of town today, will be back to spend the night tonight, before heading off to Arizona tomorrow, which really ties up traffic.
Lately
Every trip, I take a walk past the Trump hotel
Their neighbor is a dispensary :-)
When somebody doesn't believe me, I could care less. Some get totally bent out of shape when not believed. Weird. I believe very little on all forums
October 18th, 2020 at 6:21:50 PM
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Day 3B
Went to Cosmo for the Wicked Spoon buffet. Such a beautiful casino but basically nothing I’d want to play. I did get $5 freeplay for signing up for a card. Played 7/5 JOB and won $15. Buffet was acceptable given the alternatives. Nothing that really stood out though—maybe the ice cream? That was delicious. It was smaller than a typical buffet. Not sure if it’s always that way. There was a commotion about a table of 6 who apparently snuck in without paying. Somehow they managed to eat a full meal before being caught. They left before security arrived. Maybe security reached them later.
Left Cosmo and Walked to Paris. Tiles was $50 so i didn’t play. back to flamingo and played poker for a few hours. Fairly uneventful. Last 30 mins guy sits down and never shut up. May have been coked out. Always sniffling and scatter brained. Eventually left down $100. So, not a good trip financially so far but there’s time to come back.
Went to Cosmo for the Wicked Spoon buffet. Such a beautiful casino but basically nothing I’d want to play. I did get $5 freeplay for signing up for a card. Played 7/5 JOB and won $15. Buffet was acceptable given the alternatives. Nothing that really stood out though—maybe the ice cream? That was delicious. It was smaller than a typical buffet. Not sure if it’s always that way. There was a commotion about a table of 6 who apparently snuck in without paying. Somehow they managed to eat a full meal before being caught. They left before security arrived. Maybe security reached them later.
Left Cosmo and Walked to Paris. Tiles was $50 so i didn’t play. back to flamingo and played poker for a few hours. Fairly uneventful. Last 30 mins guy sits down and never shut up. May have been coked out. Always sniffling and scatter brained. Eventually left down $100. So, not a good trip financially so far but there’s time to come back.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 18th, 2020 at 6:30:31 PM
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Quote: kewljTinMan, you might want to avoid the northern Strip area around Trump Hotel ( fashion Show Mall area) this evening. You know who was there last night and although he is out of town today, will be back to spend the night tonight, before heading off to Arizona tomorrow, which really ties up traffic.
He just finished his rally here in Carson City.
October 18th, 2020 at 10:57:41 PM
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End of Day 3
Perhaps the beginning of a comeback? Played tiles at Harrahs for almost 3 hours. Sign was $50 when I arrived. Asked the pit boss if he’d be willing to drop it to $25. Game was empty. He agreed immediately and I sat down. I thanked him. Had the table to myself for about an hour. Then an older Asian guy sat down. Was betting 100-200 hand, but didn’t really seem to understand how to play. Dealer had to explain the house way every hand and explain why he lost every hand. Even for obvious decisions he was confused. Anyway, then a different pit boss upped the bet to $50 and gave everyone 30 mins notice. I left when my time was up. Up $225. Walked to flamingo and 30 mins of bubble craps won $50.
Day three over. Total for the trip: down $830 or so.
Perhaps the beginning of a comeback? Played tiles at Harrahs for almost 3 hours. Sign was $50 when I arrived. Asked the pit boss if he’d be willing to drop it to $25. Game was empty. He agreed immediately and I sat down. I thanked him. Had the table to myself for about an hour. Then an older Asian guy sat down. Was betting 100-200 hand, but didn’t really seem to understand how to play. Dealer had to explain the house way every hand and explain why he lost every hand. Even for obvious decisions he was confused. Anyway, then a different pit boss upped the bet to $50 and gave everyone 30 mins notice. I left when my time was up. Up $225. Walked to flamingo and 30 mins of bubble craps won $50.
Day three over. Total for the trip: down $830 or so.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 19th, 2020 at 1:29:19 PM
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Day 4A
Solid day so far. Woke up on NY time again. Played some PGP and bubble craps. Total up $10 or so between them. Then took a last shot at $25 double deck BJ. In 15 mins won $150 and cashed out. Checked out of Flamingo and walked (in retrospect i wouldn’t do the walk again with luggage) to the second hotel of the trip, Excalibur. Comped stay. To their credit, they let me check in exceptionally early—before 11am. No extra fees. That was very nice. Room is dated and smelled a little off when I entered but it’s clean and fine for my purposes.
Trip Total: down $670 or so.
Solid day so far. Woke up on NY time again. Played some PGP and bubble craps. Total up $10 or so between them. Then took a last shot at $25 double deck BJ. In 15 mins won $150 and cashed out. Checked out of Flamingo and walked (in retrospect i wouldn’t do the walk again with luggage) to the second hotel of the trip, Excalibur. Comped stay. To their credit, they let me check in exceptionally early—before 11am. No extra fees. That was very nice. Room is dated and smelled a little off when I entered but it’s clean and fine for my purposes.
Trip Total: down $670 or so.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 19th, 2020 at 5:48:11 PM
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Day 4B
Some mixed news. Spent a few hours by/in the pool. That was great. Then showered and grabbed a burger at Johnny Rockets. I may have had it like 20 years ago but can’t be sure. Anyway, it was fine but I thought it would be better. The party was McDonald’s thickness.
There was 1 $10 craps table. One shooter after I arrived it got bumped to $15 but the pit let everyone who was there before stick with $10. That was a positive but the rolls were terrible. Lost $270 betting only $10 PL and $30 odds on all points. Oh well. One guy was really annoying the dealers. In the hour I was there he bought in twice for $960–all in $20s. Once in the middle of the roll. When it was his turn to shoot, threw the dice off the table at least 3 times, after a very long routine. His routine involved rolling the dice in front of him. After a few bad rolls he asked the dealer to pick up the dice and put them in his hand. This got to pit to complain audibly. He also kept yelling for the dice to be pushed to him before bets were paid and placed. Couple of the dealers annoyed he kept calling them baby and one other player “China man”.
Decided to walk over to NY NY. Nothing for me to play there. Someone here said recently all MGM properties are fully 6/5 BJ outside the high limit room. So far that’s all I’ve seen.
Got a BOGO ACG pretzel from the “NY” pretzel place. FWIW, it’s nothing like a NY soft pretzel.
Overall: Down $940
Some mixed news. Spent a few hours by/in the pool. That was great. Then showered and grabbed a burger at Johnny Rockets. I may have had it like 20 years ago but can’t be sure. Anyway, it was fine but I thought it would be better. The party was McDonald’s thickness.
There was 1 $10 craps table. One shooter after I arrived it got bumped to $15 but the pit let everyone who was there before stick with $10. That was a positive but the rolls were terrible. Lost $270 betting only $10 PL and $30 odds on all points. Oh well. One guy was really annoying the dealers. In the hour I was there he bought in twice for $960–all in $20s. Once in the middle of the roll. When it was his turn to shoot, threw the dice off the table at least 3 times, after a very long routine. His routine involved rolling the dice in front of him. After a few bad rolls he asked the dealer to pick up the dice and put them in his hand. This got to pit to complain audibly. He also kept yelling for the dice to be pushed to him before bets were paid and placed. Couple of the dealers annoyed he kept calling them baby and one other player “China man”.
Decided to walk over to NY NY. Nothing for me to play there. Someone here said recently all MGM properties are fully 6/5 BJ outside the high limit room. So far that’s all I’ve seen.
Got a BOGO ACG pretzel from the “NY” pretzel place. FWIW, it’s nothing like a NY soft pretzel.
Overall: Down $940
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 19th, 2020 at 7:08:23 PM
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Quote: TinManEnd of Day 3
Perhaps the beginning of a comeback? Played tiles at Harrahs for almost 3 hours. Sign was $50 when I arrived. Asked the pit boss if he’d be willing to drop it to $25. Game was empty. He agreed immediately and I sat down. I thanked him. Anyway, then a different pit boss upped the bet to $50 and gave everyone 30 mins notice.
I thought that you would be grandfathered in on the previous minimum bet vs being subject to a time limit.
October 19th, 2020 at 7:29:47 PM
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Quote: VegasriderI thought that you would be grandfathered in on the previous minimum bet vs being subject to a time limit.
It varies by casino and pit boss. No standards.
At my age, a "Life In Prison" sentence is not much of a deterrent.
October 19th, 2020 at 10:55:53 PM
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By my experience "grandfathering" is a courtesy that Las Vegas doesn't extend as routinely as other places.
Earlier in my career, when I was playing Atlantic City, it was very common. And I needed it at the time as that bump up in table minimum would have increased my RoR to unsafe levels.
But I just don't see much of grandfathering occurring in Vegas. I mean, if they are raising table limits it is because they think they can get a full table at the higher limits. It is probably getting into more crowded times, evenings, weekends. So why do they want to offer several players to play at lower limits when they think they can get players at the higher limits. Again, the answer is as a courtesy, but Las Vegas really isn't about being courteous in my experience. Maybe some places do it, I just haven't seen a lot of it.
Earlier in my career, when I was playing Atlantic City, it was very common. And I needed it at the time as that bump up in table minimum would have increased my RoR to unsafe levels.
But I just don't see much of grandfathering occurring in Vegas. I mean, if they are raising table limits it is because they think they can get a full table at the higher limits. It is probably getting into more crowded times, evenings, weekends. So why do they want to offer several players to play at lower limits when they think they can get players at the higher limits. Again, the answer is as a courtesy, but Las Vegas really isn't about being courteous in my experience. Maybe some places do it, I just haven't seen a lot of it.
October 20th, 2020 at 12:11:18 AM
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I don’t think I remember seeing much grandfathering in other locations the last several years in other locations either. Usually just “after this shoe minimum goes up to 15/25” or whatever it is. Seemed when I started 10-15 years ago it was commonplace. I do believe it’s more uncommon now unless it’s just me. Probably just don’t really want to give a guy the option to be camped betting $5-$10 for all day not moving on a weekend when everyone else betting 2-3x as much and tables are crowded.
October 20th, 2020 at 4:58:32 AM
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Where better play?
October 20th, 2020 at 7:06:24 AM
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In my quest to do at least some things I haven’t done before, I was considering going to the Gambler’s General Store. I’ll be checking out of Excalibur today and heading downtown. From downtown (let’s say Plaza area), is it a reasonably safe walk? Or better to Uber? Distance isn’t an issue.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 20th, 2020 at 7:27:02 AM
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For some reason I never thought about the possibility of cafeteria style buffets.
I thought buffets were just going to fade out of existence.
I thought buffets were just going to fade out of existence.
October 20th, 2020 at 11:47:20 AM
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Quote: kewljBy my experience "grandfathering" is a courtesy . Again, the answer is as a courtesy, but Las Vegas really isn't about being courteous in my experience. Maybe some places do it, I just haven't seen a lot of it.
Come to Reno where the limits are lower and you can be grandfathered in. I can't speak about Lake Tahoe which is about 30 minutes away, there is just too much money up there so I'm sure they will try to squeeze as much money out of the player since the majority of them who play are from California. Us locals will stay and play in Reno.
October 20th, 2020 at 10:39:24 PM
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Day 5
A busy day, with some ups and downs. But overall down.
Checked out early morning from Excalibur. I didn’t like it at all. There really wasn’t much of anything to play and the room smelled. Not really in walking distance to anything other than NY NY.
Uber to the Cal. They let me check in at 8am. I suppose when it’s midweek during a pandemic there are lots of available rooms.
After getting settled, found the 10/7 double bonus machines at the Cal. quickly lost $260.
Decided to start my downtown ACG coupon run. Overall that went well. Up $100 or so. One negative—the “push on 22” at the D is no longer being honored. The $25 match play is available. For the first time in my life I played bingo at Plaza. Didn’t win but did get free drinks and it was pleasant way to spend some time. A new experience at the least.
Had breakfast at the Magnolia in 4 Queens. Really great place. Exactly what I wanted.
Back to the 10/7 Double Bonus at the Cal. This time even worse. Dropped $500 and decided to head to dinner. Marketplace Cafe at Cal. Food was very good, although you can tell the “vegetable of the day” (carrot/peas/corn mix) was from a can/frozen. The salmon was delicious.
Some double deck BJ. $10 min. Within an hour lost $175 and decided to take a stab at double bonus again. Finally hit 2 four of a kind. Had several AAA sweats and one 4 to a Royal sweat but neither hit. Left $400 up.
Table games at Cal not 24/7. During the week open at 2pm. Tonight all were closed by 10pm. Just one shift during the week. Sad.
Trip Overall: down $1400 or so.
A busy day, with some ups and downs. But overall down.
Checked out early morning from Excalibur. I didn’t like it at all. There really wasn’t much of anything to play and the room smelled. Not really in walking distance to anything other than NY NY.
Uber to the Cal. They let me check in at 8am. I suppose when it’s midweek during a pandemic there are lots of available rooms.
After getting settled, found the 10/7 double bonus machines at the Cal. quickly lost $260.
Decided to start my downtown ACG coupon run. Overall that went well. Up $100 or so. One negative—the “push on 22” at the D is no longer being honored. The $25 match play is available. For the first time in my life I played bingo at Plaza. Didn’t win but did get free drinks and it was pleasant way to spend some time. A new experience at the least.
Had breakfast at the Magnolia in 4 Queens. Really great place. Exactly what I wanted.
Back to the 10/7 Double Bonus at the Cal. This time even worse. Dropped $500 and decided to head to dinner. Marketplace Cafe at Cal. Food was very good, although you can tell the “vegetable of the day” (carrot/peas/corn mix) was from a can/frozen. The salmon was delicious.
Some double deck BJ. $10 min. Within an hour lost $175 and decided to take a stab at double bonus again. Finally hit 2 four of a kind. Had several AAA sweats and one 4 to a Royal sweat but neither hit. Left $400 up.
Table games at Cal not 24/7. During the week open at 2pm. Tonight all were closed by 10pm. Just one shift during the week. Sad.
Trip Overall: down $1400 or so.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 22nd, 2020 at 9:57:38 PM
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Day 6
I forgot to post yesterday and forgot most of the details about the day. Overall it was another loss. I remember losing $170 at $10 craps at Freemont and about $150 at 4 Queens craps. Dropped another $300 at the 10/7 DB VP at 4 Queens. That’s a quarter game so just unbelievably bad luck. Moved over to 9/6 JOB at 4 queens and lost another $100 there. Then lost Another $100 or so at Cal BJ. Tried to go to Freemont Tony Roma’s for the 11.99 surf and turf but the wait was long and I was hungry. Settled for the Lenai place Instead. Back to the Cal and had a small comeback. Picked up $200 at 10/7 DB and $125 at BJ.
Total loss: about $1900
I forgot to post yesterday and forgot most of the details about the day. Overall it was another loss. I remember losing $170 at $10 craps at Freemont and about $150 at 4 Queens craps. Dropped another $300 at the 10/7 DB VP at 4 Queens. That’s a quarter game so just unbelievably bad luck. Moved over to 9/6 JOB at 4 queens and lost another $100 there. Then lost Another $100 or so at Cal BJ. Tried to go to Freemont Tony Roma’s for the 11.99 surf and turf but the wait was long and I was hungry. Settled for the Lenai place Instead. Back to the Cal and had a small comeback. Picked up $200 at 10/7 DB and $125 at BJ.
Total loss: about $1900
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 22nd, 2020 at 9:58:44 PM
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Day 7
Today was a better day.
Woke up and Decided to check out the Donut place downtown I saw on the say hi to Matthew YouTube channel. The people working there were really friendly and pleasant. Got a chocolate Twix donut and an apple crumb. The backyard space was open so are out there. Donuts were solid and the outdoor space was really peaceful. Glad I went. Walked back to the Cal, spent some time gathering my things and checked out. Left my bags with bellhop. Walked over to Freemont — wanted to try the 99 cent shrimp cocktail. I knew it was the tiny shrimp so I didn’t expect much. It was fine for the price. I Could see that being delicious when you’re drunk at night.
Walked over to 4 queens and back on the quarter 10/7 DB machine. I really wanted to hit one of the higher 4OAK payouts (aces or 234). I hovered from my 100 buy in down to about 30 a few times but always hit a regular 4 OAK. Still, really wanted to hit a higher payout. I must have been there for 3 hours before finally hitting 4 4s. Cashed out up 90.
Walked over to craps and it was $5. I wasn’t going to play much since the trip had been so bad with craps. Initially just put 2x odds. But the table was hot while i was there and eventually maxed out at 5x odds. Over the course of 3 hours or so, went up close to $600 only on PL bets (and one Come bet).
There were two guys on the table who looked to be friends. One was trying to teach the other but they were both clueless. EG, guy would put his pass line bet down after the come out roll. Or could would put his “odds” on top of his PL bet instead of behind. Guy tossed $10 to the dealer and said “6”. Dealer should have put up $6 as a place bet and returned 4. Instead Dealer said “$10?” And the guy didn’t know better and said yes. The bets were winning but he shouldn’t keep up those habits.
One boxman was micromanaging everything. He must have adjusted the number of chips the stick had in front of him 6 times in 30 minutes. When there were payouts he was ordering the dealers to pay out in more complicated ways for every bet—eg, $5 PL and $15 odds on a 6. When point is hit, dealers were naturally paying 1 red on the PL and 3 red and 3 white on odds. He was ordering them to pay one green and get 2 change. He did this for every bet.
He also gave a kid a hard time about his roll. Kid was stick right. Boxman yelled at him for releasing the dice too late—it was before the middle of the table but after the start of the center action layout. Just a lot of micromanaging. I was glad when he left.
Went to Magnolias for dinner. Burger and taco salad with BOGO. I hadn’t eaten a substantial meal so devoured both.
Walked back to Cal, got my things and Uber to Luxor. Last hotel of the trip.
Overall: down $1100 or so.
Today was a better day.
Woke up and Decided to check out the Donut place downtown I saw on the say hi to Matthew YouTube channel. The people working there were really friendly and pleasant. Got a chocolate Twix donut and an apple crumb. The backyard space was open so are out there. Donuts were solid and the outdoor space was really peaceful. Glad I went. Walked back to the Cal, spent some time gathering my things and checked out. Left my bags with bellhop. Walked over to Freemont — wanted to try the 99 cent shrimp cocktail. I knew it was the tiny shrimp so I didn’t expect much. It was fine for the price. I Could see that being delicious when you’re drunk at night.
Walked over to 4 queens and back on the quarter 10/7 DB machine. I really wanted to hit one of the higher 4OAK payouts (aces or 234). I hovered from my 100 buy in down to about 30 a few times but always hit a regular 4 OAK. Still, really wanted to hit a higher payout. I must have been there for 3 hours before finally hitting 4 4s. Cashed out up 90.
Walked over to craps and it was $5. I wasn’t going to play much since the trip had been so bad with craps. Initially just put 2x odds. But the table was hot while i was there and eventually maxed out at 5x odds. Over the course of 3 hours or so, went up close to $600 only on PL bets (and one Come bet).
There were two guys on the table who looked to be friends. One was trying to teach the other but they were both clueless. EG, guy would put his pass line bet down after the come out roll. Or could would put his “odds” on top of his PL bet instead of behind. Guy tossed $10 to the dealer and said “6”. Dealer should have put up $6 as a place bet and returned 4. Instead Dealer said “$10?” And the guy didn’t know better and said yes. The bets were winning but he shouldn’t keep up those habits.
One boxman was micromanaging everything. He must have adjusted the number of chips the stick had in front of him 6 times in 30 minutes. When there were payouts he was ordering the dealers to pay out in more complicated ways for every bet—eg, $5 PL and $15 odds on a 6. When point is hit, dealers were naturally paying 1 red on the PL and 3 red and 3 white on odds. He was ordering them to pay one green and get 2 change. He did this for every bet.
He also gave a kid a hard time about his roll. Kid was stick right. Boxman yelled at him for releasing the dice too late—it was before the middle of the table but after the start of the center action layout. Just a lot of micromanaging. I was glad when he left.
Went to Magnolias for dinner. Burger and taco salad with BOGO. I hadn’t eaten a substantial meal so devoured both.
Walked back to Cal, got my things and Uber to Luxor. Last hotel of the trip.
Overall: down $1100 or so.
Last edited by: TinMan on Oct 23, 2020
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 22nd, 2020 at 9:59:57 PM
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*accidental double post.
Will update with today’s results
Will update with today’s results
Last edited by: TinMan on Oct 23, 2020
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 23rd, 2020 at 9:12:55 PM
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Day 8
Checked out of Luxor. It was the nicest hotel I stayed at. I didn’t gamble there although there was a $10 craps table. Every Caesars property I saw was $15 or $25. My flight didn’t leave until late so I had almost a full day left.
Ubered to Ballys and checked my bags. Walked to Bellagio and played some poker. 8 handed with plexiglass. There were some action players on my table but I didn’t get paid off on the 2 big hands I had. Walked away up $60 after 2 hours or so. Headed over to Paris and found the tiles table. It was $25 so I sat down. Had the table to myself the whole time. Dealers were competent but not very talkative. I lost $180 and left. I was about done gambling for the trip. Did a lot of walking around through Caesars, Bellagio, Ballys, Flamingo and Harrahs. At one point in Ballys (on the basement level where the sports book is but not in the sports book) a guy walking past me stops and says “Dodgers or Rays?” I said “Dodgers”. Hopefully he took my advice and won some money.
Ended up at Flamingo and played some bubble craps. Picked up $60 and quit. Spent some time sitting at a penny slot machine betting literally one penny at a time and having a few drinks.
Finally time to head to the airport and get back home.
Overall trip looks to be somewhere around an $1130 loss. I’ll do a final tally when I get home. Not ideal but when I average it out over 8 days it’s only about $140/day. Since all rooms were comped, I’m not really bothered.
Checked out of Luxor. It was the nicest hotel I stayed at. I didn’t gamble there although there was a $10 craps table. Every Caesars property I saw was $15 or $25. My flight didn’t leave until late so I had almost a full day left.
Ubered to Ballys and checked my bags. Walked to Bellagio and played some poker. 8 handed with plexiglass. There were some action players on my table but I didn’t get paid off on the 2 big hands I had. Walked away up $60 after 2 hours or so. Headed over to Paris and found the tiles table. It was $25 so I sat down. Had the table to myself the whole time. Dealers were competent but not very talkative. I lost $180 and left. I was about done gambling for the trip. Did a lot of walking around through Caesars, Bellagio, Ballys, Flamingo and Harrahs. At one point in Ballys (on the basement level where the sports book is but not in the sports book) a guy walking past me stops and says “Dodgers or Rays?” I said “Dodgers”. Hopefully he took my advice and won some money.
Ended up at Flamingo and played some bubble craps. Picked up $60 and quit. Spent some time sitting at a penny slot machine betting literally one penny at a time and having a few drinks.
Finally time to head to the airport and get back home.
Overall trip looks to be somewhere around an $1130 loss. I’ll do a final tally when I get home. Not ideal but when I average it out over 8 days it’s only about $140/day. Since all rooms were comped, I’m not really bothered.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 24th, 2020 at 10:39:11 AM
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Quote: TinManAt one point in Ballys (on the basement level where the sports book is but not in the sports book) a guy walking past me stops and says “Dodgers or Rays?” I said “Dodgers”. Hopefully he took my advice and won some money.
In the movie "Let it ride", one of the methods Richard Dryfuss character used to make his betting selection was to ask random people who they liked and eliminate that choice. Lol.
Glad you had an enjoyable trip and I enjoyed reading of it.
October 24th, 2020 at 7:07:45 PM
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Nice trip report. Better luck next time. Try Reno, it’s better suited for the low-medium bettors. Since there are no shows or entertainment, I think Reno is a better choice for gaming. Lower table limits, but not nearly as the number of casinos. Unless you are a high roller, then it doesn’t matter.
October 24th, 2020 at 8:00:07 PM
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I have always thought casinos should grandfather for a period of time, like one or two hours. Seems like that would do something for both sides.
October 26th, 2020 at 6:49:38 PM
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Miscellaneous/Odds and Ends/Final Thoughts
Prior to going, there were a few things I heard about. Here are my experiences:
Scooters: I saw relatively few scooters. There were some people who looked like the scooter was more of a choice than a necessity, but it wasn't a ton of people. Never truly blocking the street. If I hadn't heard stories about a ton of scooters, I wouldn't have paid any attention to them.
Pot Smell: It was noticeable at times. There were maybe 2 occasions where it was really strong. I couldn't remember if it was more prevalent than the last time I was in Vegas in 2019.
Homeless: There were a ton of people shirtless/shoeless, either walking around or flat passed out on their back. I don't recall seeing that many people just flat passed out in the sun. It was odd. I've seen homeless people in Vegas before, but I recalled more people sitting down begging and fewer people completely unconscious to the world.
Extra Security: The first day I was there a dealer mentioned that there are auxiliary security personnel. He described them as something less than official cops. They wore yellow vests with SPD. I did notice a lot of them on the strip.
Fights: I didn't see any fights or even loud disputes.
Crowds: the strip felt less busy walking around. At most of the casinos you could see fewer tables open. Downtown during the day was very quiet midweek. I don't think I was outside of my hotel after 11pm-midnight or so on any night. (In part this was because I was still on NYC time and going to bed early).
Table Limits: In some cases, they were higher than usual. I used to be able to find $10 craps tables at lower end Caesars properties. I saw zero $10 tables in Caesars properties, even at off hours midweek. Everything was $15 or $25. The only $10 craps game I saw on the strip was at Excalibur. Downtown there were very few $5 craps tables. 4 Queens at times, but not always. I never thought I'd see $10 at Freemont midweek at 9am.
Other: I played a few bucks at the Sigma Derby at The D. That was fun and felt like a bit of history. I bet all long-shots.
Prior to going, there were a few things I heard about. Here are my experiences:
Scooters: I saw relatively few scooters. There were some people who looked like the scooter was more of a choice than a necessity, but it wasn't a ton of people. Never truly blocking the street. If I hadn't heard stories about a ton of scooters, I wouldn't have paid any attention to them.
Pot Smell: It was noticeable at times. There were maybe 2 occasions where it was really strong. I couldn't remember if it was more prevalent than the last time I was in Vegas in 2019.
Homeless: There were a ton of people shirtless/shoeless, either walking around or flat passed out on their back. I don't recall seeing that many people just flat passed out in the sun. It was odd. I've seen homeless people in Vegas before, but I recalled more people sitting down begging and fewer people completely unconscious to the world.
Extra Security: The first day I was there a dealer mentioned that there are auxiliary security personnel. He described them as something less than official cops. They wore yellow vests with SPD. I did notice a lot of them on the strip.
Fights: I didn't see any fights or even loud disputes.
Crowds: the strip felt less busy walking around. At most of the casinos you could see fewer tables open. Downtown during the day was very quiet midweek. I don't think I was outside of my hotel after 11pm-midnight or so on any night. (In part this was because I was still on NYC time and going to bed early).
Table Limits: In some cases, they were higher than usual. I used to be able to find $10 craps tables at lower end Caesars properties. I saw zero $10 tables in Caesars properties, even at off hours midweek. Everything was $15 or $25. The only $10 craps game I saw on the strip was at Excalibur. Downtown there were very few $5 craps tables. 4 Queens at times, but not always. I never thought I'd see $10 at Freemont midweek at 9am.
Other: I played a few bucks at the Sigma Derby at The D. That was fun and felt like a bit of history. I bet all long-shots.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
October 26th, 2020 at 7:39:35 PM
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I was walking through the Peppermill Casino in Reno yesterday and saw a $10 single deck 3-2 BJ table. Nobody playing.
October 26th, 2020 at 8:24:30 PM
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Quote: TinMan
Other: I played a few bucks at the Sigma Derby at The D. That was fun and felt like a bit of history. I bet all long-shots.
So do I. I can sit there and play hours.
