This blog will be going on indefinite hiatus. You are invited to keep up with trends and tips on our Facebook page. If you who have just discovered this blog, there is still plenty of useful information to explore. You may especially enjoy the re-telling of our epic 2009 cross-country trip, starting here.

Thank you for your continued support!


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Pssst! Wanna Know A Secret?

Here are some tips gathered from frequent travelers that may benefit you on your next trip.


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Holiday Gift Certificates Now Available!

A Not-So-Hidden Gem

Of the twenty destinations chosen by National Geographic Traveler magazine as a "must-see place to visit", only one is located in the United States? You may be surprised by the winner!

That is, unless you sneak a peek at the bottom of this post...


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Holiday Gift Certificates now available!

City Adventures For Families

Looking for an urban adventure that both kids and parents will find interesting. Here are some ideas for family city breaks from all around the world, including two from North America. Of course, there are many, many more cities with attractions for all ages. Your travel advisor can help you figure out which location may be best for your family. Abundant Travel, for example, is partnered with a tour company that specializes in city vacations that are both fun and educational. Feel free to ask us for more details!


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Edmonton: More Than Meets The Eye

I have to admit that the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Edmonton, Alberta is: 1) legendary hockey player Wayne Gretzky and 2) the West Edmonton Mall, the largest retail structure in North America. However, this article opened my eyes that there is so much more to this prominent Canadian city.


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One Day In San Francisco

Here's a sample of what you can do in just one day in San Francisco. Imagine if you had a few more days...or even a week!


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Tips For Booking Thanksgiving Flights

If you haven't booked your flight for Thanksgiving just yet, perhaps the most important tip is...book now. Here are four other tips.


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Don't Let Your International Phone Charges "Roam" Away

Once while on a week-long business trip to Montreal, I called my cell phone company to arrange the best plan for me to use the service...or so I thought. Upon returning, I discovered some obvious miscommunication as my phone bill was inflated by $100 due to calls to/from Canada that month. However, I got off light compared to some of the people in an article I recently found. Here are some tips to minimize wireless roaming charges.


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Holiday Travel Airfares On The Rise

If your holiday season travel plans involve flying to your destination, now is the time to make your purchase as airfares are due to increase compared to last year.

How To Avoid Dealing With A Cancelled Flight

While this article states that only 1 in 100 US airline flights are cancelled, there are times when it is more likely to happen. Read on about how to avoid them.

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Let Me "Level" With You...

From time to time, we like to recognize fellow bloggers who contribute to the spirit of improving travel experiences for larger travelers. Today we discovered such a kindred spirit at the Travel On The Level blog which provides tips to those who prefer less strenuous walking and fewer stairs during their travels. While the thoughts of the author do not necessarily reflect those of Abundant Travels, we encourage everyone to check out the blog for some useful ideas.


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What (Not) To Do In New Orleans

New Orleans is a unique American city. Many people do not get beyond the French Quarter, particularly Bourbon Street and its non-stop party atmosphere. However, there is so much more to the Crescent City. The following is a list of "do's and don't's" to keep in mind when visiting New Orleans. And no, "exceeding your normal beverage limit" is not on the list...

For even more tips, contact us! We are certified as a New Orleans Destination Specialist by the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau.


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AirTran Adopts Southwest's Unfriendly "Customer of Size" Policy

As AirTran continues its impending merger with Southwest Airlines, it is also merging it's size-unfriendly policies. While this is a disappointing development, it is not surprising.

The reality is that while some US airlines have a more sensitive approach to travelers of size than others, there is currently no such thing as "size-friendly seating" in coach class.*  The typical coach seat is 17 or 18 inches wide. That would comfortably accommodate a passenger whose hips were no wider than about 36 inches. Similarly, business and first class seats average 22 inches wide and would provide optimum comfort up to 44-inch hips. One should be realistic about which single seat would be most appropriate.

Ironically, while other airline policies are realtively more understanding of larger passengers who have purchased one seat, it is only Southwest (and presumably now AirTran) that will refund an advance purchased second seat if the plane is not full.

So whether or not you choose to fly Southwest or AirTran in the future, it is helpful to be aware of other airline policies. Of course, your travel advisor can assist you with sifting through those details while helping to plan your trip.


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Now Open: The "World's Worst Hotel"

Here's a new vacation experience to cross off your bucket list. All it requires is a flight to North Korea.

How To Get Travel Advice With No Obligation

Have you heard of Fee-Based Financial Planning? These are financial advisors that provide unbiased opinions of what investments may fit your personal goals and preferences for one fee with no obligation to purchase any investment products.

Inspired by that concept, Abundant Travel now offers "No Obligation"Travel Planning! We also provide you with unbiased opinions and extensive research to determine what travel experience would fit your needs, all for for a reasonable fee with no obligation to purchase a trip. Of course, if you do decide to invest in a vacation experience that we offer, your travel planning fee would be credited towards your vacation investment!


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The "Best" Food and Wine Destinations

The results of a recent website readers' poll determined the "world's best" destinations in the world to enjoy food and wine. Of the three located in North America, two of them share a French heritage.


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Lights! Camera! Oops?!?

Want to know which digital camera is best suited for your vacation needs? Check out the suggestions here!


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"All-Inclusive" Vegas?

Is there a such thing as an "all-inclusive" Las Vegas vacation? Generally speaking, the answer is: no. For those who gamble enough to warrant attention from their preferred casino, the answer may be different. But in that situation, to be honest, they may not need the services of a travel advisor.


For the rest of us, there are aspects of an “all-inclusive” experience that can be duplicated in Vegas. Certain hotels offer personalized service at the level one might find at some Caribbean resorts. If you prefer your vacations to be more structured than spontaneous, there are packages that would include perks such as dinners, shows, spa treatments, limousine transportation and a personal concierge among other benefits.

Are you interested finding out more about how to make the most out of your Las Vegas vacation? Do you have concerns about doing so as a Traveler of Size?  Tune in to this blog regularly for more thoughts and tips on Las Vegas vacations...or contact us through our website provided below.

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A Renowned New Orleans Hotel Makes Its Triumphant Return

One of the enduring symbols of the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina, the Hyatt Regency New Orleans is set to re-open after an extensive makeover. As certified New Orleans Destination Specialists, we are happy to hear of this inspiring news!


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Long Way From Home....Welcome To The "Fright Dome!"*

While the run-down common areas at family-friendly Circus Circus can be, in our frank opinion, somewhat "spooky" in themselves, the walk through is worth it to reach one of the biggest, scariest Halloween attractions in the country! Of course, as certified Las Vegas Destination Specialists, we can help you find the best places to stay with your kids...or just the kid in you.

*Cool points goes out to whomever can guess the 80's musical act that we are indirectly referencing in today's blog title.


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How To Catch Some Zzz's During Your Flight

If you're someone who has trouble sleeping during your flight, here are some tips to help you catch some Zzz's.


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The World's Top Ten Tourist Attractions?

Travel + Leisure magazine recently compiled a survey of the world's top ten tourist attractions. While the presence of nine Northern American destinations may be questionable, one thing is sure: Abundant Travel can help you get to all of them!

Halloween in New Orleans

New Orleans celebrates its "haunted" past...and Halloween is the best time to revel in it! Not only are there tours of haunted houses and historic cemeteries, there is also a weekend-long music festival as well as parades that rival Mardi Gras. Read more about it here!

As New Orleans Destination Specialists, we can show you how to make the most out of this unique holiday experience.


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I Beg Your Pardon?!?

Sometimes while in visiting another country, you may find yourself expressing yourself with a hand gesture that, while innocent at home, may amuse or even offend those around you. Here is a humorous guide on what gestures you should avoid in what countries. (Note: if you're not currently reading this in North America, you may want to watch your back! *smile*)

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Destination Weddings in "The Big Easy"

Have you caught the new reality show "Big Easy Brides" on WeTV? While the cast members are predictably outrageous, the important take-away is that it draws attention to the fact that New Orleans is becoming a  popular choice for destination weddings.

Besides featuring the unique atmosphere and amenities that only the Crescent City can provide, getting a marriage license in New Orleans is as easy as in the "other" wedding capital of the world, Las Vegas. Of course, Abundant Travel is a  certified Destination Specialist for both New Orleans and Las Vegas! So when you're looking to seal the deal and/or kick up your heels, Abundant Travel can help you plan a memorable experience in either destination.


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Seattle Doesn't Mind A Little "Grunge"

After saying "Nevermind" to recognizing grunge's role in defining the city Seattle is now fully embracing it as part of its musical heritage.

Something "Wicked" Is Happening In Las Vegas

One of the experiences that defines Las Vegas is its buffets. I distinctly recall paying $2.99 for a buffet at the Luxor as recently as 1996. As they say, you get what you pay for: it wasn't exactly a highlight of that trip. These days, the quality of casino buffets (along with the corresponding price) have greatly increased. Among the more sophisticated destinations is the Wicked Spoon at the Cosmopolitan, which stands out for its unique presentation.


Abundant Travel is not only a certified Las Vegas Destination Specialist - including our upscale division Las Vegas Luxe Life -but is also a registered Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Specialist.


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How To Do "Absolutely Nothing" On Your Vacation

You might think it would be easy to to just kick back and relax during your time off. However, this article offers some amusing guidance in how to enjoy "doing nothing" while on vacation.

Speaking of "doing nothing": you may want to know that Abundant Travel is now a certified SuperAgent for SuperClubs(R), home of the all-ages Breezes resorts as well as the (very) adults-only Hedonism II. At these all-inclusive properties, you can enjoy the various on-site restaurants and amenities...or just relax and enjoy the Caribbean Ocean views.  For information on how to save up to 55% on your next SuperClubs(R) vacation, contact tony@travelabundantly.com!


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How To Obtain A Passport The Easy Way

Did you miss National Passport Day this past Saturday? If so, there's still no reason to worry: obtaining a passport is still a relatively easy process. In fact, you can receive it in as little as 2 weeks!


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The Foodie's Top Ten!

Do you consider yourself to be a gourmand? Then here are the Top Ten US Cities for Foodies as determined by Travel and Leisure Magazine.

Here's a hint about #1: it's a location where Abundant Travel is a Destination Specialist.

Montreal - The (European) Slice Of Life

For US travelers, a Montreal vacation is like having a "slice of Europe" without leaving North America. No where is this more true than in the neighborhood of Old Montreal.

When To Fly During The Holiday Season

Now may the time to start thinking about holiday travel, especially if it will involve getting there by plane. Take a look at this article which predicts which days will be the best value (and shortest lines) for flights.

You may also want to know that Abundant Travel offers holiday gift certificates as well!

It's Restaurant Week in New Orleans!

In response to the annually slower and steamy summer season, New Orleans restaurants have banded together to offer a promotion that visitors and locals alike can appreciate.

Remember that Abundant Travel is a New Orleans Destination Specialist as certified by the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau. We would be happy to help you plan your next (or first!) vacation to the Big Easy!

The World Of Travel - Ten Years Later

Here are five ways that travel has changed since the tragic day of September 11th, 2001. How has travel changed for you?

From One Fellow Blogger To Another...

 Thanks to our friend Lara Frater for mentioning Abundant Travel in an article on her blog. We had the pleasure of meeting Lara at the recent NAAFA Annual Convention where she attended our travel seminar. We would encourage everyone to check out Lara's unique perspective on traveling.

"Girlfriend Getaway" Ideas

Ladies: looking for a for a weekend - or even a whole week - away "with the girls"? Here are some ideas to inspire you!

Introducing...Las Vegas Luxe Life!

We are excited to announce the launch of our new sister website: Las Vegas Luxe Life!

Las Vegas Luxe Life is a travel service that caters to the needs of visitors lookng for a luxury experience in the "Entertainment Capital of the World!" Whether it is the right hotel, the coolest nightlife, the most relaxing spa or the most memorable wedding, Las Vegas Luxe Life is here to provide you with the quintessential upscale experience.

For uninitiated visitors of all sizes, Las Vegas can seem overwhelming at first. Let Las Vegas Luxe Life take out the guesswork and set up many or all of your activities during your stay!

The "Top Of The Pops!"

Here are the Top 25 Travel Destinations in the United States as determined by TripAdvisor. See where your favorite vacation spots rank among them. You may be surprised about how many smaller cities and towns are included.

How To Overcome A Language Barrier When Traveling

A language barrier may make some international travel challenging...but certainly not impossible. Here is some advice on how to survive and thrive in a country where you don't speak the primary language.

Train Travel Restored Between Philadelphia and New York

Amtrak service has resumed to Trenton, New Jersey which means train travel between Philadelphia and New York has essentially been restored.

Update On Travel Following Hurricane Irene

Airlines are optimistic about being able to return to a full schedule today in areas affected by Hurricane Irene. Meanwhile, Amtrak service is still facing disruptions, particularly between Philadelphia and New York City as flooding issues still plague neighboring New Jersey

After The Storm - An Update On East Coast Transportation

For many on the East Coast who had planned to fly out of town today - particularly in the New York City area - today will require a lot of patience, to say the least.


On a similar note, Amtrak service is still suspended along much of the East Coast, including along the Northeast Corridor between Boston and Philadelphia.

Grounded By Hurricane Irene?

If you had plans to fly this weekend that may be interrupted by Hurricane Irene, here's how some airlines are responding to the emergency.

Your Ideal Hotel Room

What's most important to you when choosing a hotel room?

Shaken...But Not Stirred

It was a scary fifteen seconds here at our DC-area headquarters yesterday when the earthquake originating about 100 miles south in Virginia made its presence known here and much of the rest of the Eastern Seaboard. Fortunately there was no real damage on our part. As for the state of Washington's tourist attractions, all appears to be well with some minor exceptions.

Update 8/25/11: It turns out that there was more damage to both the Washington Monument and Washington National Cathedral than previously reported.

Lost In (Air) Space?

Even the "best" of us {raises hand} has experienced the displeasure of having their luggage misplaced. Follow these luggage guidelines to help avoid the same thing happening to you.

Five Laid-Back California Retreats

How would relaxing in your room facing the Pacific Ocean while the mild breezes flow in sound about now?

Yeah, we thought so too!

Travel Scams Around The World

The reality of travel is that there may be people out there who will not have your best interests at heart. Here is some advice on how to avoid some of the most typical travel scams.

Small Towns Can Mean Big Fun!

In contrast to Monday's list of hidden big city treasures, here is a sampling of North America's finest small towns.

Photo Highlights From Las Vegas

About a month ago, my lady Cathy and I were in Las Vegas to attend the 2011 BBW Network Las Vegas Bash. It was by far the largest gathering of People of Size and their Admirers anywhere in the world. It was a double bonus for me as Las Vegas happens to be one of my favorite vacation destinations. It's no surprise then that I like to share my enthusiasm for the town with my clients. While I don't have any official association with the Bash organizers, I would definitely encourage people to attend this event.

As promised in the past, here are a few photo highlights of our Vegas experience.



Yours truly in the custom-designed company gear



Relaxing in the hot tub

Cathy enjoys a morning swim

Yep, we were there!

On the Arizona side of the Hoover Dam

 The Lady and I having a "dam" good time

 

I visited the new Cosmopolitan Hotel one day.

Cosmo's amazingly beautiful Chandelier Bar. You really have to see this!

Relaxing at the Chandelier Bar.

Checking out Fremont Street in downtown Vegas.

Not-so-secret fact: most of the Strip is not in Las Vegas proper...but Fremont Street is!

 

 

The Lady and I at the event's formal dinner 

Ta-daaa!

Take A Walk On The Not-So-Mild Side....

If you're the type of urban visitor who likes to get away from the "usual" tourist spots and live more like a local, check out these interesting off-the-beaten-path city neighborhoods.

Viva Las Vegas!

Did you know that gambling in Las Vegas now accounts for less than 40% of tourist revenue? Check out our sister blog Las Vegas Good Life to learn more about the luxurious side of "Sin City". Get the latest news from nightlife to restaurants and much more!

Don't forget that Abundant Travel is a Las Vegas Destination Specialist as certified by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. We would love to show you how to make the most out of your Vegas experience!

River Cruising On The Mighty Mississippi

If you prefer a laid-back atmosphere that's easier to navigate, consider cruising on the small ships of the Mississippi.

A More Down-To-Earth Vacation?

There are those who will always love settings like Disneyland. Then there are others who prefer a more authentic vacation destination. This article discusses some of the more down-to-earth locales.

Quirky Roadside Attractions

Enjoy road tripping but wouldn't mind something interesting to shake things up? Check out these unique roadside attractions.

A Super-Powered Suite!

I admit to being a big of a comic book "geek" - or fanboy, if you will - so the idea of this Pittsburgh hotel suite rather intrigues me. What do you think?

How To Not Stress Out Before Your Vacation

Too busy catching up on work and errands to get ready for your vacation? Fear not Fellow Traveler, for here is a handy checklist of strategies!

Saint Louis - The Gateway To Family Fun

Flying a bit under the radar for as a tourist destination, Saint Louis has a lot to offer, especially for families!

Where's The Beef?

Because sometimes you just need a good burger, here is a list of favorite burger joints from cities across the United States.

Nashville: More Than Just Country Music

Sure, Nashville is a mecca for country music fans but there's so much more to see! Check out these five sightseeing ideas.

Oh, Canada!

In hono(u)r of Canada Day, here is a sampling of new trends happening in Ottawa, the nation's capital.

Five For The Fourth!

For those of you celebrating Independence Day this weekend, here are five ways across the United States that you can enjoy the holiday!

US Museums Go Science Fiction

The summer attractions at these museums are truly "out of this world!"

Not To Toot Our Own Horn...

...but we were happy to be spotlighted on CBS News yesterday in a feature about products and services for plus-size people!

Art Museums (Not So) Off The Beaten Path

Do you consider yourself an art aficionado but find you appreciate the craftmanship more than the large crowds at the more renowned destinations? Then you may find this list of lesser-known art destinations to be useful.

The "Fresh Face" of Boston

Boston, the hub of the New England region, holds an iconic status in American history. Nevertheless, the city has strived to offer new attractions to locals and tourists alike. Here is a glimpse at the "new" Boston.

Life's A Beach!

Planning to go on a beach vacation soon? Although you may think you've packed everything you need, here are some useful products that you may not have thought about.

Decisions, Decisions...

When deciding to plan a vacation, especially if one has not traveled in a while, it can be easy to become overwhelmed with all the choices out there. As much as the internet can help, it can also complicate matters with even more information. Here are some ideas to consider when planning your vacation.


What kinds of activities would you like to partake in? Or would you prefer to go somewhere and do “nothing at all”?

Is there a particular location that interests you? What excites you the most about that location?

Do you want to do be in a familiar atmosphere? Or would you prefer to try something a little (or a lot) outside your normal comfort zone?

Would you prefer to go the tried-and-true tourist route? Or does blending in with the locals sound appealing?

Are you interested in viewing natural scenery? Or do man-made structures inspire you?

Are there multiple ways to arrive to your destination? Sometimes, as they say, the journey is half the fun. At other times, getting the party started is of the utmost urgency.

Knowing the answers to these questions will not only help you streamline the decision process for yourself but also make it easier for your travel agent to focus on finding the vacation experience that you seek.

Traveling Solo

Traveling solo can be a freeing experience. Still, some people can become concerned about connecting with others in both good and not-so-good times. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your solo experience.

Size-Friendly Las Vegas

Las Vegas! Sin City! The self-proclaimed Entertainment Capital of the World! Size-friendly? Why yes, it can be if you do a bit of advance planning. Shameless plug: Abundant Travel is certified as a Las Vegas Destination Specialist by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.


Of course when most people think of Las Vegas, they think of the multitude of casinos that line Las Vegas Boulevard aka The Strip. As most of these structures are indeed rather substantial, it helps to be aware of one’s endurance level. Having access to a car is helpful – assuming there is a designated driver in your party – and most Strip hotels offer free valet parking. (A $2-5 tip upon departure is always appreciated.) Many plus-size visitors find it beneficial to rent an electric scooter. All of the hotels on the Strip meet accessibility guidelines with their rooms, restaurants, shows and other attractions. At several crosswalk points, elevator access is provided. For transportation from the airport and between hotels, one can also ask a porter to arrange for an accessible taxi van featuring a ramp to roll up into the back of the vehicle.

The creation of grand hotel entrances set back far from the street can make for a considerable journey by all pedestrians, particularly guests who might want to leave their temporary home. Some exceptions whose properties open up directly on the street include the Paris, the Flamingo, and the Cosmopolitan.

It may be tempting to try to visit all of the casinos; however, for general sightseeing purposes, some may be more interesting than others. If one wanted a sample of the “best” that Vegas had to offer, I would suggest the aforementioned Paris as well as the Bellagio and Caesars Palace. As it turns out, all three of these hotels are on or near the same intersection of Flamingo Road and the Strip. I might visit these hotels in the order listed, especially if walking, in order to help gauge one’s endurance. Paris is the smallest of the three hotels. For day two, I would consider visiting both the Venetian and again the Cosmopolitan. Certainly this isn’t an exhaustive list as each  Strip casino hotel has its own unique draw. But for purposes of popping in and out of properties, it may be worth it to make sure that there are specific attractions that you want to see at a particular hotel.

Of course, while touring the properties is a lot of fun, many people find that their host hotel provides more than enough amenities for them to stay put. Some examples would include Mandalay Bay, the Venetian and the Wynn.

A considerable contrast to the Strip can be found a few miles north in the Fremont Street area of downtown Las Vegas. With casinos that are smaller and packed closer together, it’s easier to randomly visit any and all of them. Most of the hotels there fit are located under the overhead canopy where the famous Fremont Street Experience light show takes place nightly. In general, one’s dollars will go further up here. That said, there are two potential drawbacks for some visitors. For one, non-smokers may be concerned with the relative lack of investment in air filtration systems by downtown casinos. Also, the headliners and extravagant productions found further south on the Strip are mostly replaced by cover band entertainment under the canopy as well as a burgeoning nightlife on East Fremont Street that is mildly trendy yet laid-back and inclusive. The Golden Nugget as well as the Cabana Suites at the El Cortez are two hotels where indulging in luxury is possible.

Dozens of Reasons To Visit New Orleans

Here are a few - okay, more than a few - reasons to visit the Big Easy. While the culinary suggestions may not be surprising, some ideas are a bit less obvious.

Riding The Rails: Is It For You?

Traveling by train can be a good compromise between the increasing complexities of air travel and the physical toll of driving. While there are certainly advantages, there are also considerations to take into account when deciding on train travel.


Unlike airports, Amtrak train stations have less security procedures. It is not necessary to go through metal detectors to endure searches of one’s property or of oneself. In many cases, all one needs to do is line up at the time of boarding. Amtrak is also more lenient with the amount of luggage that can be stored for no additional fee.

For those who may need assistance with boarding the train as well as stowing one’s belongings, Amtrak staff is available to help. Advance notice may be beneficial in some cases.

Compared to the average airline coach seating width of 15-19 inches, Amtrak coach seating is more generous starting at about 20 inches. Upgraded seats are as wide as 23 inches. Purchasing an additional seat or sharing a third seat may still be beneficial.

For those traveling overnight – or many nights – a sleeping car room can be advantageous for its privacy. Showers are also available in most rooms. Note that as sleeping car rooms often consist of bunk beds, passengers who would be sharing space may want to assess the viability of such an arrangement. There are accessible bedrooms as well for those who utilize wheelchairs but they should be reserved well in advance.

Train travel can often save time that you would have otherwise spent on the highway. With as much ground as Amtrak covers, however, the train service is most frequent along the coasts and east of the Mississippi. On the other hand, some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery can be found along the routes in the heartland. Not unlike an airline’s connecting flights, a train itinerary may sometimes travel an indirect route as well. For example, a trip from Philadelphia to Memphis would require a change of trains in Chicago.

Overall, traveling on Amtrak can be a memorable experience, especially if planned in advance. Canada’s VIA Rail system is even more highly regarded. And in many other countries, particularly in Europe, train travel is more popular and efficient than flying or driving.

In Search Of The Best Pie Shops?

Everybody likes pie, right? (I happen to be partial to Boston Cream Pie, myself.) Well, here's an article about the best new pie shops in America.

America's "Best" Cities For Summer Travel

This list of the "best" cities to visit this summer includes more than a few that spend the winter in hibernation.

An Electronic Music Cruise

I have to admit that, as a fan of electronic dance music, this cruise concept interests me a lot. What do you think?

In Celebration Of Summer!

Here is a sample of  America's best summer's best festivals. They are all surely worth the trip!

Tipping Around The World

Gratuities are certainly an important part of the hospitality industry, especially in popular traveler destinations. Here is a view on what is appropriate tipping etiquette in the United States as well as abroad.

Protecting Your Travel Investment

Travelers are not always aware of how purchasing travel insurance will protect their investment. It can definitely be beneficial, particularly for more elaborate or international trips. Here is an article that explains the benefits of protecting your travel investment.

How To Get The Flight Attendant On Your Side

Here is a funny take on how (not) to treat your flight attendant.

Another tip, if applicable, would be to ask one of the flight attendants for a seat belt extender as you boarding the plane. The attendant should discreetly bring you an extender as they continue to prepare for the flight.

Revving It Up In The Motor City

OK...so Detroit is not the first place to be thought of as a tourist destination. However, visitors are often surprised to find out what the Motor City has to offer. Here is a quick overview of some of Detroit's most entertaining highlights. As Detroit certainly loves its cars, city parking is relatively convenient and inexpensive compared to other larger cities. A more in-depth look into entertainment options in Detroit can be found here.

Southwest Airlines Back In The News

Southwest Airlines has returned to the news with another situation involving Customers of Size. This latest situation involves a mother and daughter who were on a layover during a return flight home. A more detailed perspective from the daughter can be found on her own blog.

Granted in an “ideal” world, airlines would either offer more spacious seats or, in the case of Canada, be required to charge only one fare per passenger, regardless of size. Until airlines in the US become enlightened (or compelled) enough to offer more accommodating seating, there is the possible reality of purchasing more than one seat.

I personally have mixed feelings about Southwest’s policy. On the one hand, while many other airlines require customers of size to purchase additional seating, Southwest’s rules are theoretically the most stringent. On the other hand, Southwest does fully refund the charge for a second seat if the plane is not full. Some airlines will offer a refund less an attached service charge while other airlines will not offer refunds at all.

The issue I have with the situation addressed in the article is that the Southwest front-line employee appears to have been uninformed and unprofessional with how he handled the two Customers of Size.

What is your opinion of this incident?

Have you been thinking about going to Europe this year? Besides exploring all the culture and history, shopping is just as important to many travelers. However, it literally comes at the price of a value-added tax (or VAT) that citizens and visitors alike must pay. The good news for tourists is that it is possible to apply for a refund of the VAT. The article below discusses when it is worth pursuing a VAT refund and when it may not be worth it.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42577340/ns/travel-travel_tips/

Road Trip!

One can’t help but notice that the price of transportation has increased significantly over the last weeks and months. While some have had no choice but adjust to the price at the pump, the story is not always the same when it comes to booking airfare. In fact, it may have some Travelers of Size who may require more than one seat considering other vacation plans.


Fortunately for those of us in North America, there are innumerable interesting places to visit all over the continent that are just a one or two-day drive away. As flying can be an all-day experience as it is, adding an extra day on each end can make traveling from the comfort of your car worth it. Chances are that fuel and lodging costs will be less than one airline seat. You may even find some fascinating surprises along the way on the way to your destination.

Over the coming days and weeks, I will discuss some destinations - some well-known, others a bit under-the-radar, that may appeal to Travelers of Size for various reasons. In these times, you deserve more than a “staycation”. Let’s get ready to travel!

Las Vegas - No Kidding Around?

Vegas is always changing and evolving to accommodate what decision makers in the hospitality industry feel is the next big trend. During the 1990’s, Vegas positioned itself to be more welcoming to families. While more hotel rooms were sold, casino revenue declined and marketing to families, with a few exceptions, ceased by the end of the decade. Nonetheless, there are people who are either not aware of that news or see certain attractions and amenities and feel that Las Vegas still offers more than enough to keep families entertained for days if not weeks.

My personal view is: it depends…but probably not.

PRO:

Vegas casino hotels offer arguably the best value in North America. Compared to other equivalent hotels, a Vegas casino hotel will offer significantly lower rates. Of course, these rates are subsidized by past and expected gaming revenue.

CON:

Because casinos would ideally prefer that you were spending your time (and money) in their restaurants, retailers and gaming areas, your room will likely be missing amenities usually found in other hotels such as a refrigerator, a crib/“Pack-and-Play” or kid-friendly TV stations. Parents may also lament the usual lack of a coffee maker. Also, if your family consists of more than four, hotels may prefer that you purchase more than one room in order to expedite housekeeping. That can be a potentially expensive proposition for some families. Non-gaming hotels, including timeshare rentals and familiar chains, can be found on or near the Strip and would be more likely to offer familiar family comforts. The Four Seasons, which occupies upper floors of the Mandalay Bay casino, goes out of its way to welcome guests of all ages; many guests find investing in the significant premium for that level of service to be worth it.

PRO:

Las Vegas makes an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding natural beauty, not the least of which is the Grand Canyon located about five hours east in Arizona. Somewhat closer by are the Valley of Fire National Park (90 minutes north in Utah) and Red Rock Canyon (45 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip).

CON:

Children do live and grow up in Las Vegas. However, what they do for fun is largely far from the Strip and not any different than what can be found in most other cities and resort areas. Even on the Strip itself, many of the all-ages attractions such as arcades and thrill rides can also be found at other destinations. Circus Circus has positioned itself as the most family-friendly casino in town. Its Adventure Dome indoor theme park is a big draw. Nonetheless, I would not say that its offerings compare favorably to most other regional outdoor theme parks in the US.

PRO:

Many Vegas casino hotels are amazing structures with beautiful scenery inside and out. The Excalibur hotel with its medieval castle façade may offer the best combination of good photo opportunities outside and amenities that might appeal to younger kids within. Style-conscious teens may enjoy (window-)shopping at retail arenas in the Venetian, Caesars Palace and Planet Hollywood as well as the self-aware Fashion Show Mall.

CON:

Only guests over 21 can stay on the actual casino floor. Otherwise, minors must move quickly through to avoid drawing the attention of security. Unless you’re not from one of the top twenty metropolitan areas in the United States, chances are your family has already visited most of the retail establishments back at home.

PRO:

Las Vegas features an amazing array of shows, including many headliners and Broadway-level productions. Afternoon shows tend to appeal to all-ages, including the Mac King Comedy Magic Show as well as the Popovich Comedy Pet Theatre.

CON:

Many shows are adult-oriented. Even relatively tame productions may feature some level of profanity or other adult themes. Other shows may just be too sophisticated for kids to understand…not to mention the late start times. Children under five will usually not be allowed to attend evening shows.

To sum things up, Las Vegas can work for families but it can take lots of planning. Parents should prepare their children to see advertisements, hotel staff and fellow travelers behaving or performing in an adult manner. In my opinion, the “sweet spot” for bringing along children would be from about ages ten to sixteen. They would be old enough to appreciate the positive things they see while not being disappointed about what they cannot yet enjoy. I believe that three days is enough for families to experience most age-appropriate activities on the Las Vegas Strip. As suggested earlier, Las Vegas makes an excellent base to start and finish exploring the surrounding natural wonders within a day’s drive.

Taking A (Non-)Gamble On Vegas

There is perhaps no other place that I enjoy as a vacation destination more than Las Vegas, Nevada. So it may not be surprising that as a travel consultant, I have chosen to become certified as a Las Vegas Destination Specialist by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). While this may not mean that I know “everything” about Vegas off the top of my head, I probably know where to find it. It also means that I have access to special offers negotiated by the LVCVA that may not be available elsewhere, especially on public websites.


So…one might think that with my enthusiasm for Vegas that I would be a dedicated gambler, right? Well, not really. In fact, as much as I love the casino atmosphere, I’ve been known to go a whole day without contributing one dollar to a slot machine or card table. Why? Because there’s usually too much other stuff going on! *smile* I don’t go to Vegas to earn “comps” (complimentary stays) for my gambling play; I go prepared what it takes to have a good time and I am ready to invest in what it takes to do so.

Did you know that gaming now accounts for less than half of the revenue of most Vegas casinos? Dining and entertainment are now each just as prominent…and can even be intertwined at times. This is the beginning of an ongoing series that endeavors to show how one can have an excellent time in Las Vegas well beyond the video poker and blackjack table. So stay tuned and enjoy!

A Convenient Pink Sand Paradise

The island country of Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches, unique pastel-colored architecture and English flair. Located just 650 miles southeast of North Carolina, Bermuda is particularly convenient for East Coast residents of North America. The best beaches and most hotels are located on the southern shore.


Because of limits placed on cars, cruise ship visits and hotel construction, Bermuda has been able to maintain its reputation as an upscale destination. In fact, it has one of the highest rates of returning visitors in the world.

The capital of Hamilton features limestone homes and quaint cottages that await arriving cruise ship passengers who patronize the many tourist-friendly shops. Although near the mouth of the island’s Great Sound, there are no beaches in Hamilton. One can take a ferry to the south shore to relax on the famous pink sand. However, one must remember to catch the last boat before midnight.

St. George, located on the eastern edge of the island, was Bermuda’s first capital. The city retains much of its 17th century heritage. Besides an array of pubs and restaurants, there is also nearby Fort St. Catherine, the largest of the island's historic forts.

While Bermuda isn’t known for high-energy nightlife, visitors will certainly have their share of things to do during the day. The island is a golfer’s paradise, with more courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world. And of course, don’t forget the Bermuda shorts which are accepted as standard dress everywhere (although a jacket and tie is recommended for men on more formal occasions).

The weather is pleasant through most of the year. The Gulf Stream helps to moderate the summer heat. Winter is pleasant enough for most outdoor activities except for swimming.

The (Almost As) Great Barrier Reef

Most everyone has heard of the Great Barrier Reef located off the northeastern coast of Australia. However, many people may not be aware that the second longest reef in the world is located in the Central American country in Belize. The reef's two largest land masses or cayes (pronounced keys) are Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. On Ambergris Caye, the town of San Pedro is the main access point. The fastest mode of transportation available to visitors is the golf cart.

Belize City, which was the nation's capital until a hurricane severely damaged it in 1970, is still the main transportation hub for the country. This is where one is most likely to find reminders of Belize's past as a British colony. Even today, Belize is the only Central American country where English is recognized as the official language. Belize's indigenous past is honored on La Ruta Maya (The Route of the Maya) which starts north of Belize City.

Belize is closer to North America than one might think, located just south of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula and such popular resort towns as Cancun , Cozumel and Tulum. So if a trip to Australia requires too much commitment, a vacation to Belize can definitely more within your reach.

A Caribbean Experience As Easy As "A-B-C"

Many people who want to visit the Caribbean are hesitant to do so during what is considered to be hurricane season: June through November. However, there are three exceptions to the rule that are very unlikely to experience hurricanes. They are known as the "ABC" countries: Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. All of them are located just a "stone's throw" from the coast of South America. As part of the Netherlands Antilles, the Dutch influence is still strong in each country.

Aruba is popular with tourists who visit its resorts on the northwest coast. Those who explore further are surprised to find a desert climate complete with cactus trees. The capital city Oranjestad is a mix of Spanish and Dutch architecture. From the top of Haystack Mountain, one can see all the way to Venezuela.

Bonaire is a diver's paradise! The island-nation is completely surrounded by coral reefs that lead down to friendly fish below the sea. While there are a few casinos, most people are in bed early to rest up for another busy day exploring the ocean. Most hotels are located just north of Kralendijk.

Curaçao was once known primarily as a trading center but the promotion of diving and duty-free shopping, the development of a large cruise ship port and the arrival of casinos has created a burgeoning tourist industry. The capital Willemstad is reminiscent of Amsterdam. In another mèlange of influences, Indonesian food and customs are also present while the Mikvè Israel Synagogue exists as the oldest in the Americas.

For those in North America comfortable with longer flights and perhaps more than one transfer, a vacation in any of the "ABC" islands would be a memorable experience.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - The Final

Saturday:

When the advisory says that you should arrive two hours for departure from McCarran Airport, they’re not kidding. I had expected that an early Saturday morning would be different but I was wrong.  My morning flight was due to take off at 8:00am so I left Bally's at 6:30, thinking this would be the calmest time at the airport.  However, I was greeted at my terminal with a line snaking around longer than a nightclub queue waiting to see Kim Kardashian. Fortunately, the line moved very quickly and I was able to get through the subsequent security again without experiencing my first pat-down.  I took advantage of a stop-over in Memphis to order some genuine BBQ and returned home to snow flurries hitting my face as I walked out of DCA.

To sum up some of the mistakes I made, here are once again my Learning Experiences, for your reading pleasure.

1. Renting a limousine may seem expensive but it can also be a great value in the long run.  Shuttles can be slow and taxis in traffic (see Part One) can make the cab fare savings negligible.  Limos can be practical if you want to pick up essentials you'll need for your stay. Having your limo reserved before hand will help ease the stress of your arrival as your driver will be there to greet you, assist you with your luggage, and allow you to arrive in style at your hotel destination.

2. Always read the menu before you walk in a restaurant. Or, in the case that you have the choice of a "mini-buffet" within your coffee shop (see Part Three), make sure that you preview the items so that you'll know how (un)appetizing they are.

3.  If you have to forget to put any items in your suitcase, make sure that they are the ones that you don't need the most. (Part Three again)

4. The tram between the Luxor and Mandalay Bay hotels does not begin operating until 9:00am. (Part Four)

5. The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace has its own taxi stand. It is a long walk from Caesars' main entrance on the opposite side. (Part Five)

6. Finally, if you're coming to Vegas on business, it is best to stay at the hotel where said business is being primarily conducted. Whatever savings you may perceive in staying elsewhere will likely be countered by the extra time, resources and energy it takes to get there, particularly if you will be spending all day in a convention center that is in the back of an already huge resort complex. (Part Four)

Even if you're in Vegas for leisure, picking a hotel whose amenities interest you the most would be a wise decision. As much casino-hopping as one may plan to do, you may end up spending more time at your home base than you may think. There's nothing like being able to start and end your day at a place that you enjoy.

Thank you for reading my mini-novel...and Safe Travels!

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Seven

Friday:

On my last full day in Vegas, I set out for appointments to tour several more casinos. While casino-hopping is a popular pastime, virtually all of these hotels, along with the Wynn and Encore toured yesterday, offer enough amenities that one wouldn't need to leave.

Mandalay Bay is the southernmost hotel on the Strip. It's so close to the airport, one can often see it from the arriving plane. At 550 square feet (or about 50 square meters), the standard rooms are among the largest in Vegas. One can certainly not miss the restaurants as their signs are printed in HUGE BOLD LETTERS! The pool complex is rather massive as well and includes an adults-only section where bikini tops are optional. The House of Blues restaurant offers culinary and musical pleasures on a nightly basis. The Eyecandy Sound Lounge is an open-air nightlclub with a relaxed vibe. Next door to Mandalay Bay is "THE Hotel", the non-gaming property and a decidedly mellower vibe.

Next I toured the Monte Carlo. When I last visited this hotel in 2007, I recall thinking that the property was rather dull. Since then, the Monte Carlo has come a long way.Their offerings include Brand, a steakhouse that evolves into an intimate dance club at night; the Minus 5 Lounge, where one can take a break from the desert heat (if one isn't visiting in, say, December), put on a parka and sip frozen drinks; and Jabowockeez, the dance troupe made famous on "America's Got Talent".  Monte Carlo's best feature may be its exclusive Hotel 32 floor where guests receive such amenities as a round-trip limousine ride from the airport, daily happy hour and a dedicated concierge.  The pool area is relatively small by Vegas standards but features one of two "lazy rivers" on the Strip.

Following a pleasantly tasty refueling at the Monte Carlo buffet, I came across my favorite slot machine, Super Jackpot Party. Having some time to kill before another appointment, I said “What the heck!” and stuck a few dollars in. I started off slow initially, adding to the roughly $50 I had lost over the week. But suddenly I hit on a good bonus round and BAM I win $50 worth of credits! I cash out immediately and call it a week on gambling as I managed to stare down “the house” and call it a draw. A moving walkway connected the Monte Carlo to my next destination. The Aria.

The Aria, part of the new City Center project, is unique from most Vegas hotels on the Strip. For one, its reception area is separate from the casino. The hotel is also LEED-certified which will please environmentally-conscious guests. I was stunned by the rooms' floor-to-ceiling windows and impressed by th touch-screen technology available to control all of the amenities. Numerous sophisticated restaurants abound to please every palate. Also in City Center is the non-gaming hotel Vdara. This all-suite hotel features full kitchen facilities in each unit and the views can be just as stunning as from their neighbor Aria. Their heated outdoor pool area is open year-round. Crystals is City Center's high-end shopping destination and includes actress Eva Longoria's Haze Nightclub.

After touring all of these hotels, it was late in the afternoon. You would think on a Friday night in Vegas, I’d be pumped up. But as it was my sixth day there, I was pretty tired. I ended up sticking close to “home” (Bally’s) and jumped across the “border” to Paris and Le Burger Brasserie for another “Le Turquie” Burger. I was greeted by the same semi-friendly bartender that I met on Sunday. As for the female servers, their football jerseys were replaced by what looked like can-can dancer outfits…not that I was complaining. Afterwards, I went around the corner past Napoleon’s Dueling Piano Lounge - which was hopping pretty well - and got some gelato from the dessert place in Paris. I brought my French haul back to my room at Bally’s and watched some Sports Center before finishing up my packing for the morning.


Next: The Final Chapter...believe it or not.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Six

Thursday:

I didn’t feel particularly hungry this morning but I knew I wouldn’t make to lunch without some sustenance. So I went down to the gift shop and bought a cup of cereal, a pint of milk and a bottle of juice. For about $7, it was a true breakfast of champions. After enjoying my own self-catered room service, I caught another cab down to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center for my last day of “conventioning”.

At the end of the day, I headed up to the Wynn hotel to meet up with a sales manager who was taking me on official tour of both the Wynn and its adjacent property, the Encore.These are truly magnificent properties although it may not be totally apparent to visitors passing through. They are subtly different with the Wynn emphasizing a floral theme while butterflies adorn the floors of the Encore. The flower garden that connected the hotels was truly a sight to behold. While the standard rooms are excellent in each property, I was really impressed by their Spa Suites which featured a dedicated room with a massage table where you could receive in-room treatments.
I caught a taxi back “home” to Bally’s and got to chatting with the driver who happened to have an iPod full of dance music tracks to keep himself entertained. It turns out that he was a DJ in a past life and, at a similar age to me *cough forties cough* was still very much in tune with what was going on. It was an enjoyable ride for me as it’s not often I meet too many kindred musical spirits. I took his card for future reference since the experience was as good as any “party bus” as far as I was concerned.

I had to change quickly as I was already a little behind in meeting some local friends for dinner. I headed over to the Tuscany casino, about a half-mile east on Flamingo Road just after Ellis Island. I’ve stayed here in the past for a size-friendly social convention and found it to be a laid-back place where you can get a quality meal for a good value. We went to their coffee shop where I ordered a NY Strip Steak with two sides for about the same (or less) that it would have cost for just the entrée at a coffee shop back on the Strip.

Another benefit that most off-Strip casinos offer is a smaller footprint to get around. If you've been to Vegas a few times or otherwise feel a shortened commute (and requisite car rental) would be worth it, then there are some quality properties for all budgets within a few minutes of the legendary Las Vegas Strip.

My local friends had a surprise for me after dinner  They took me out to the suburb of Henderson to introduce me to Ethel M’s Chocolate Factory and Cactus Garden. While I had heard of this place before, I didn’t realize until then that it was essentially the upscale version of Mars/M&M’s until I walked in the door and saw some of the same candy paraphernalia that was probably at M&M World back on the Strip. I did watch some of the process of the candy being made - including real live employees! - although apparently the audio narration was over for the day. An Ethel M’s store was conveniently placed at the end of the tour and I decided to bring back a holiday treat for my lady. Once outside again, I visited the cactus garden. If it were any other time of year, I probably would have walked on by. But since the cacti were decked out in holiday lights, it was actually a cool thing to check out.

The ladies dropped me off back at Bally’s where I “donated” a few more bucks to Super Jackpot Bonus Party before calling it a night.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Five

Wednesday:

After Tuesday morning's transportation debacle, I decided to pony up for a $15 cab ride from Bally’s to Mandalay Bay. I enjoyed some oatmeal with brown sugar and washed it down with OJ at my "favorite" new restaurant Red White and Blue.

Before the trip, some of my colleagues had discussed the idea of having a Big Dinner preceding our Big Night Out at Pure Nightclub in Caesars Palace. I took the initiative to find a place and eventually settled on Joe's Seafood and Steak, conveniently located at the Forum Shops in Caesars. I had hoped I would be able to get my other nine associates to confirm by noon so that I would not be held liable for the reservation.  would be a better choice. I had hoped that I would be able to catch up with everyone by noon Wednesday so I could cancel the reservation without liability. By 11:55am, I was able to catch up to all but one younger colleague who was already stretching his budget.

I had rarely been to the Forum Shops so I really didn’t have a clue how to get to Joe’s. The rest of my Mandalay Bay crew had even less of a clue and got out of their taxi at the main Caesars Palace entrance. We would find out later there was a taxi drop-off at the Forum Shops as well. (That’s Learning Experience #5.) In the end, we all managed to get there at 6:45, fifteen minutes later than our reservation time. Fortunately this wasn’t a problem as we had to wait another ten minutes for our table, anyway.

Joe’s is probably most famous for its stone crabs. A few of my colleagues put that reputation to the test. I ordered the petite filet mignon which was very good. We all shared a bunch of sides including some creamed corn that I believe someone here suggested. While I’ve been accused more than a few times of being “corny”, I’m not particular fond of corn but I gave it a shot nonetheless. I won’t say that I loved it but I managed to take a few bites which were a couple bites more than usual. In the end, our bill averaged around $40 per person which pleased everyone. In fact, they toasted me for my  Big Dinner choice which made me feel really good! We had about a half hour to casually make our way over for the next destination: Pure Nightclub.
As a guy in his forties, I like to think that I keep up pretty well with contemporary pop, hip-hop and dance music. However, as a teetotaler who prefers to dance with his lady or at least ladies that I already know, I seem to be incompatible with today’s nightclub scene, particularly in Las Vegas.

I was looking forward to checking out Pure not only because of all the perennial hype but also because it was supposed to be one of the larger clubs in the city. As it turns out, they cordoned off a fair amount of it besides the main floor, including the balcony area I had hoped to check out for a cool view of the Strip. Nonetheless, I had a good time. I did shock a couple of my friends when I told them that the seat we were sitting in would probably cost us hundreds if not thousands of dollars on a normal night. I also thought to myself that about 90% of the people at the function – friendly but not necessarily “beautiful” and averaging fortysomething – would probably not get in Pure at all without reserving bottle service.

Of the ten of us, seven had their fill after about an hour and either headed back to MB or further explored the Strip. That left me, one of my lady colleagues and the young guy. While Young Guy got his drink on, the lady and I hit the dance floor. At one point, we each recognized some other acquaintances and danced and chatted with them as well. Around midnight, the function broke up and my lady colleague and her friend caught a cab back to Mandalay Bay while I walked my other friend to her cab. I dragged my poor legs home, tired but satisfied.

As hinted at earlier, Pure is typical of the more popular Vegas nightclub in that its barriers to entry favor those who are ready to "party like rock stars. They are usually at two of the following: younger (below 30), affluent (to reserve expensive bottle service and the included rare seating) and fashionable (read: slim). A person of size who had not made said prior table reservations could find themselves waiting in the queue for a particularly long time. Fortunately there are many nightlife venues which, while perhaps less sophisticated and celebrity-laden, are more welcoming to all sorts of people.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Four

Tuesday:

This morning, I returned once again to Bally’s Sidewalk Café, this time avoiding the minor culinary fiasco that was their “Express Breakfast Buffet” in favor of a proper meal. There was no wait as the café has just opened and therefore I received the “privilege” of being placed in the slightly separated VIP section which was really no different than any other section. Nonetheless, I felt “special” as I enjoyed some surprisingly good vanilla bean French toast.


A lot of my decision to stay at Bally’s instead of Mandalay Bay where most of my business was being conducted was based on what I had thought would be a pretty easy commute. I planned to take the monorail all of one stop to the MGM Grand station, walk through the casino and across the street to the Tropicana/Luxor overpass where I would take the tram to Mandalay Bay. As I had at least seen if not utilized this route before, it seemed pretty straightforward. Perhaps not...

The smoothest part of the trip was the monorail. As a Bally’s guest, the station was pretty convenient to find; I can see how it might be a pain for some others. I went down the same escalator that led me to the gym via the resort wear stores, Sbarro’s Pizza and the sportsbook/restaurant to find the monorail entrance next to the pool area. I noticed a sign that while Bally’s pool area is closed for the winter, save the tennis courts, the indoor pool at Paris was also available to Bally’s guests. I arrived a few minutes before the monorail’s opening at 7:00. The actual trip from Bally’s to MGM lasted about two minutes.

So I walked through the MGM and across to the Tropicana only to find…non-working escalators? After my unintentional shopping “workout”, I wasn’t crazy about climbing steps but I did it. (I found out later that there was also an elevator on the other side of the escalator. Whether or not that was actually working, I’ll never know.) I wasn’t crazy about that but figured I would get to relax a bit on the tram at the Luxor. Nope. The tram didn’t start operating until 9:00am, about 90 minutes later. So I embarked on another unintentional tour through the Luxor and Excalibur. Other than some mild curiosity about insult comics serving me dinner at Dick’s Last Resort (@Excalibur), I pretty much confirmed that I wouldn’t go out of my way to return to either of these casinos.

This concludes Learning Experience #4, by the way.

I would say that the monorail is most useful for those traveling from either of its end points: the Las Vegas Convention Center to the north or the MGM Grand station to the south. It may not necessarily be worth it otherwise, especially considering the long walk required to back of the corresponding casino to reach the station. Catching a cab would save the most personal wear and tear. Renting a car would be even better although, as a reminder, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police does not mess around with drivers who have even had a "little bit" to drink.

I won’t bore you with any of my business details, except to say that the Red White and Blue restaurant at Mandalay Bay became the “home away from home” for me and my colleagues. The menu offerings were priced at a level consistent with the four-star resort but were a  better value than the more convenient convention center food court.

After a long but productive day, I made it back to Bally’s to rest for what I intended to be an hour nap….except that I woke up four hours later. I had received another invitation from the internet friends I met on Sunday to join them for dinner at Ellis Island, a nearby off-Strip casino, so I was disappointed that I had missed out on  that opportunity. I still wasn't feeling my best but, not wanting to waste a night in Vegas, so I set out to take a walk around.

My first stop was the Flamingo, where I spent a week in the summer of 2007. I don’t know what it is but I just feel comfortable here. The vibe is relaxed, I like the vanilla scent, and I can even embrace the loud pink. I thought about grabbing a bite at the Burger Joint or the new food court but decided that I still hadn’t built up an appetite. I kept on strolling up the east side of the Strip until I got to the Venetian.

One of the best things about resorts about the Venetian is that it’s one of those places that offer enough that you never really have to leave. The flipside of that is that it takes “forever” to get in. After a bunch of moving walkways and thruways, I eventually found myself in the Grand Canal Shoppes. I didn’t really know where I was going but at some point I ended up in St. Mark’s Square where I got some chocolate chip gelato. I walked through the Venetian casino which was as packed as any place I would visit during the trip. I also noticed that a dueling piano bar, an option which I’m not sure is mentioned much here.

On the other side of the Venetian, I stopped in Walgreen’s to find something that I hoped would make me feel better. Then I checked out the Palazzo for the first time. It was interesting approaching the entrance as I wasn’t sure whether the ladies passing by me in their snug dresses were “entrepreneurs” or merely headed to the Lavo nightclub queue. Overall, the Palazzo was fine but just seemed like an extension of the Venetian. So I did an about face and headed back to Bally’s.

It was approaching midnight and I was finally getting an appetite. So I stopped in the Tequila Bar and Grille, figuring I could get a good quesadilla. As it turns out, I’ve had better quesadillas from Taco Bell. For one, the meat was virtually non-existent. The rest of it just didn’t have any taste. But I managed to get full enough and listened again to the R&B cover band in the Indigo Lounge for a bit before calling it a night.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Three

Monday:

On this morning, I decided to head downstairs to Bally’s Sidewalk Café for breakfast. I saw that they had an “Express Breakfast Buffet” for $10.99 and, not having a huge appetite, decided it might be worth it. The advertisement said they had assorted meats and assorted cold cereals. I guess by “assorted”, they meant two. In retrospect, I should have taken a closer look before committing to the buffet. I didn’t expect much but I got even less. If you like eggs, it might be worth it. As for me, that would be Learning Experience #2.

I had planned on spending the rest of the morning casually walking the Strip and seeing what I could see. Unfortunately, I discovered while unpacking that I had not included my suit. Yikes! I figured I could get by with the pairs of khakis I bought with me but I still needed a suit jacket. And thus my adventure for today had started.

I remembered that there were two Ross stores on the Strip. For those not familiar, Ross is a discount department store on par with TJ Maxx, Marshalls and AJ Wright. If you’ve lost your luggage or just need to outfit or accessorize yourself in a pinch, it can be a convenient choice. The good news is that they had two locations on the Strip: the Showcase Mall next to MGM Grand and what I call the Peppermill (Lounge) Shopping Center just south of the Riviera. The bad news is that neither had a particularly appealing selection of jackets. I did note a decent array of larger-size options in general (up to 2X). So I took the opportunity to do something I would have rather done under less duress: I made my first visit to the Fashion Show Mall.

As malls go, it was a pretty nice place. It’s probably as nice as most upscale malls albeit with an emphasis on, of course, fashionable clothing stores. While I was admittedly more focused on my own "fashion" needs at the time, I would say from my quick observation that it would be easier for a larger person to find a new pair of shoes than a whole outfit. Tommy Bahama may be a positive exception for guys. The department stores are likely to offer at least the lower-end plus-sizes as well. Speaking of department stores, my first stop was Macy’s where they had a great selection but not in my preferred budget. So I headed over to Dillard’s next and after trying on a few jackets…success! I rested my tiring legs at the food court and got a chicken cheese steak from the Philly cheese steak shop. Unfortunately, while this native Philadelphian’s favorite corner shop had mustard available, this place wasn’t quite as authentic.

I caught a bus back to Bally’s and fell out on the bed for a bit. After patronizing two Ross stores and searching around the Fashion Show Mall, I had invested four hours of my day. Definitely not the type of aimless Strip wandering I had planned. If you’re keeping score, that’s Learning Experience #3.

After that unintended cardio workout, it may be hard to believe that I left my room to go to Bally’s spa. I suppose I’m one of those “weird” people who like to work out on vacation. I also figured the hot tub would help my sore legs. In order to find the spa, I had to head down an escalator where I discovered a “whole new world” that included the typical stores featuring resort wear and tcotchkes along with a food court and arcade. I saw a sign for the monorail I would use later before I came across the spa.

Since I was arriving after three, I saved half of the normal $22 fee. One thing I noticed right away in the fitness center section was how purple it was. The graphic design also made me feel like I had taken a trip back to the 80’s. I put myself through a relatively light upper body maintenance, took a shower and went for a dip in the hot tub…or rather, the “warm tub”. There were three whirlpools of different temperatures but I always prefer to be medium toasty.

I admit to not having a lot of spa experience. The only other one I’ve been to in Vegas was the Flamingo Spa. I know there are certainly more luxurious spas but as I’ve mostly stayed in or near the Flamingo in the past, it’s worked for me. While Bally’s actual spa area was probably equal to the Flamingo, I have to say the Flamingo’s fitness center was more attractive and updated. The staff was about equal; polite if not quite enthusiastic. Overall, I’d prefer to go back to the Flamingo between the two...although I had aspirations to finally(!) try out Qua over at Caesars Palace.

Later in the evening, I went over to the Bellagio via the convenient overpass that linked the two casinos. I was there to attend a pre-convention reception party. After being solo for a couple days, it was nice to see some familiar faces there. One of the Bellagio sales managers was there and offered to take me and a few other associates up to check out some of their rooms. I have to say it was a great experience to check out these rooms and their amazing features and views. I would get the opportunity to get my mind blown again by other properties later in the week.

After the reception, my colleagues and I walked around the Bellagio a bit, stopping first at Jean Phillippe Patisserie, a gourmet dessert shop featuring a huge fountain of chocolate. We then strolled through what is perhaps the Bellagio's most popular free attraction, their floral observatory. This elaborate display is changed every season. Not surprisingly, there was a strong holiday theme with faux penguins and snowmen thrown in for good measure.

After our observatory tour, I bid my colleagues good night as they returned down to Mandalay Bay and I relished my relatively short walk back across the overpass to Bally's. It would turn out to be a rare advantage during the week.

Winter In The Desert Oasis - Part Two

For those of you who have been waiting "on pins and needless" for the next installment of my Las Vegas trip, I do apologize. I've been busy developing things on the business end but I promise to post more frequently...especially as my trip reviews tend to be a bit wordy, if you hadn't noticed.

Still Sunday (Day One):

After a bit of relaxing in my room, I went out to the bus stop in front of Paris to catch a ride up to the Downtown Meet-n-Greet some fellow members of an internet forum had set up that night. I found the new sidewalk ticket machine  to be convenient. Now, one could buy a pass for two hours ($5) or 24 hours ($7) instead of queueing up to pay on the bus. As it was, the bus driver was seated inside a barrier with an accompanying security guard checking passes, so buying tickets on-board was no longer an options. It was a little odd, but I suppose that kept the drunken tourists from causing too much mayhem.

I took the Strip/Downtown Express - or SDX, as all the cool kids say – which definitely cut down on the time I used to spend on the Deuce bus, which still exists as a primarily Strip-only route stopping at virtually "every" casino. Besides the fewer stops, it probably helps that the SDX not only went off the Strip north of the Wynn but also had its own dedicated lane somewhere north of the Stratosphere. In all, think it only took me a half hour to get from Paris to the Golden Nugget.

If you have a bit of patience, the SDX and Deuce buses are an inexpensive option to get around. For a newcomer, these buses can also serve as a sort of unguided tour of Vegas. When not crowded, the seats are ample enough for a person of size.


Stepping off the SDX on Fremont Street, I walked under the electronic canopy pitching advertisements and past and  approached the Plaza casino thinking how sad it was that the place that once defined Vegas as seen through the eyes of Puff Daddy, Mase and Monster Magnet was now a hotel “in transition”. Nonetheless, I had heard good things about the tapas bar Firefly where I was to meet my internet acquaintances and was looking forward to the experience. Since this would be the first time I had met everyone, I didn’t really know who to look for not to mention I was a bit nervous. But when I spotted a bunch of people standing around in elf hats, I took a chance that they were who I was looking for…and I was right!

I really couldn’t have met a friendlier bunch of people. In the holiday spirit, I accepted my own elf hat and wore it with pride! Firefly itself was a great choice for a Meet-n-Greet. While I was still full from fine French cuisine – see Le Burger Brasserie from my previous post – I thought that Happy Hour selections were reasonable and everyone seemed to enjoy them. The view looking out onto Fremont Street was awesome. I could see coming back with friends or even a casually romantic date with my lady.

While it was only 7:00pm or so when the Happy Hour broke up, it may as well had been 3:00am for this East Coaster who hadn’t slept much the previous night. it may as well have been three in the morning. So I  caught the Deuce back this time, which was a little slower than the SDX but probably not more than 45 minutes. If it were a Friday night instead of Sunday, I’m sure either bus route would have been a longer ride. I should note here that the Deuce is named for its double-decker dimensions. The winding steps leading to the second deck are rather narrow.

When I arrived back at Paris, I decided to call it an early night.