Exploring Tortilla Flat, Arizona

Discovery of Tortilla Flat

While in Las Vegas we love to take tours within Nevada and Arizona. The most interesting discovery is
Tortilla Flat of Arizona.

Tortilla Flat

We rented a car and headed to Mesa, Arizona to visit my family. From there we went along the highway to US 60 East( also known as Superstition Freeway) and along Apache Junction and State Route 88 for 18 miles. Tortilla Flat is just 2 miles past Canyon Lake.

Did you know that Tortilla Flat is noted for the smallest friendliest town in Arizona? It also boasts for having a U.S.Post Office for a such a small population of only 6 people.

The Little Settlement of Torilla Flat

We knew we reached our destination as soon as we noticed the little quaint settlement with its own Superstition Saloon; a real treat to visit. The most interesting attraction was the funny wallpaper pasted with really dollar bills from visitors across the world. And when was the last time your bar seats happen to be horse saddles?

Of course we had to visit the restaurant serving Old West Breakfasts, the hottest Chilis known as the
"Killer Chili", Grande Na-Chos, the famous Chimichanga and the fun Cackleberries Mexicanna Mornin Chow.
Tortilla Flat is like taking a little trip back into the western frontier of the old west. After our rip-torting taste of the "Killer Chili" we mosey on down to the the creaky boardwalk to a stonewall Gift Shop full of nik naks related to the southwest. I'm always picking up a cookbook or two and today was no exception. To me, a cookbook is like a souvenir, just like Canadian Recipes of the Great White North. My eyes quickly zero in on a Southwestern Indian Cookbook that would add to my souvenir collection. They also add quick bites of hot salsa's; of course I had to buy one.

The History of Tortilla Flat

It goes way back with the Indians crossing its most valuable resource - water. It was the prefect place to set-up camp with a small trickling creek known as the Tonto Trail.
It wasn't long before a Spanish explorer named Cabeza de Vaca found his way to the Southwest Superstition Mountain where he met up with the Pueblo Indians who told him of the Seven Cities of Cibola or known as the Cities of Gold. Superstition Mountain has since been rumors of gold. It was believed that the Jesuit Priests of Spain had found a a pocket of gold and didn't have any intention of sharing it with their
Spanish King. The King ordered the Jesuits to be executed, but before they could follow out their plans the Jesuit Priests hide the gold in the Superstition Mountains and throughout the southwestern desert.
Apparently, it is told, in 1847 to 1848 a group of Mexicans under Don Miquel Peralta had found the treasure of gold but were met with Apaches who killed all but one.
To this day, the legend is alive with reports of gold within the Superstition Mountain.

But the real truth of the matter of Tortilla Flat is when a group of cowboys were stranded due to a flash flood, their only staples at the time was flour. They made tortillas and christened the flat, Tortilla

Flat.

And today, Flash flood is still a very real part of the southwestern desert. We couldn't adventure any
further along the road due to a flash-flood just two days before. Tortilla Flat is a true gem to explore
when in Arizona.
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Bellagio Review

Bellagio Las Vegas by Vegas Reviews

During the Christmas holidays  we step into the grand foyer of the Bellagio in awe as we observed the  hand-blown glass flowers peering above the ceiling. We  allowed ourselves to appreciate this creative piece of art, a warm welcome into the Bellagio grand lobby.

(NOTE: Check out recent reviews for 2014/ 2015 on Aria, Las Vegas.)

Our needs were quickly addressed and flawless during our check-in; as a matter of fact Bellagio offered us a free up-grade. The ultra fast elaborate elevators whisked us up to our 27th floor. Entering our deluxe room overlooking the spectacular view featuring entertaining Fountains of Bellagio displaying a romantic dance.


The deluxe room showcased a lavish comfort in the warm and inviting décor of our Tower guest room, complete with panoramic views of Las Vegas. Upon arrival, the elaborate styling made us feel like a King and Queen in this spacious upgraded room featuring a King size luxury bed, marble floors, flat screen TV and of course a fully stocked mini bar.

It was hard to leave our room, but we were intent to explore this grand mega hotel. Our next stop was the breathe-taking pools  boasting a Mediterranean and garden setting. We went for a quick dip within the five pool courtyard, an accomplishment for us hardy Canadians. 
The next morning we set out to the garden vista café treating ourselves to a tasty eggs Benedict.

In the afternoon we frolic over to the 2010 Winter Conservatory & Botanical Gardens showcasing the grand Christmas display featuring elaborate Christmas trees, animated penguins, extra large Christmas decorations, dancing reindeer and polar bears. The setting was without a double - Fantastic! We took a romantic walk along the fountains of the Bellagio displaying a wonder of technology combining water, music and light showcasing a spectacular event.

Throughout our visit with Bellagio we encountered pleasant staff, gourmet dinners and good times. What more could you ask for? Join in on the "fun" with  Vegas Reviews.

Check out the most recent Vegas Review of the Venetian Las Vegas 

The Venetian Las Vegas

Treasure Island Review

Treasure Island, Las Vegas - by Vegas Reviews

[Note: Even though the post says 2011 - We have visit T.I once again in 2012 and 2013.

 The photos are from 2012.  Check out more recent reviews 2014/2015 for Vegas Resorts]

Treasure Island was previously owned by MGM Mirage, recently in 2008, taken over by Phil Ruffin.

Phil Ruffin is a well known friend of Donald Trump who sold Phil 3.5 acres of land in order to build the Trump International close to the Las Vegas Strip.

With that purchase, Donald Trump became business partners with Phil Ruffin. The Trump International Hotel Tower is a successful business attracting visitors across the world, but Phil wanted sole ownership of T.I.  So, in 2008 Phil Ruffin made a deal with MGM Mirage buying the Treasure Island Casino Resort for a mere $775 million. The sale of Treasure Island had ease financial risk for their biggest investment ever - the 9.1 billion City Center development. 

Phil Ruffin made a great deal with MGM Mirage, due to the fact Treasure Island was worth one billion.

Vegas Reviews had the opportunity to visit Treasure Island Resort in 2008, 2012 and 2013.

Our first impression of Treasure Island had sparked interest as we passed by the famous pirates ship called Sirens of TI. An enchanting show featuring a band of renegade pirates from the 17th century with a story of seduction, dancing along with captivating songs and clashing fun filled danger.

Within minutes we were confronted with a steady long line-up at check-in, noting that the lobby needed some TLC. It wasn't long before we were up front with our hotel guest server with an wonderful smile. A quick and painless invitation to our room looking out at the pirate ship below.

Our room was clean with a tasteful decor making anyone relax in a perfect setting. Trust me when I say I'm fussy when it comes to a clean room.  T.I. did not disappoint with a very clear appearance throughout the bedroom and washroom facilities. 

Choppers on display at T.I. Las Vegas

As night settled in we decided to take in the colorful tropical restaurant where," It's always a party at Kahunaville!  We order an exotic island-infused drink where the glasses were as tall as us.

I ordered the steak dinner while my wife had the Piña Colada Chicken. But first we had to have the popular Calypso Calamari while sipping on our flaming drinks. The steak was a little under cooked but was quickly resolved with a fresh cooked steak just exactly how I wanted it - medium rare. The whole experience was worth it and highly recommended.

After our entertaining meal at Kahunaville we headed over to the casino, where a grandmother passed by us on a scooter. I thought that was interesting to know that complimentary wheelchairs and rental scooters were available with the TI Bell Desk. 

 Personally never had any use for this, but it sure is an important factor for those that have trouble getting around a vast impressive resort. In fact, I have had Vegas Reviews followers ask this very question " My mom can't get around very well - do they offer assistance?"

During the afternoon, we took some photos of the new Senor Frogs, which we tried out during the evening.  It wasn't the service we expected and were placed in a very dark location, where we both couldn't even read the menu.  The young female server was more interested in serving us drinks, then answering our questions about the menu AND the terrible lights predicament.  Due not being able to read the menu in the dark, I asked if they had a cheeseburger. She nodded. We asked for two and left at that.  Maybe because we are older folks, her service wasn't particularly the best.  The rest of the crowd were mostly in their twenties. Anyway, we left it at that and we won't be back for Mr. Senior Frogs.  There are so many restaurants to choose from along the Vegas Strip, there's no point in bothering with bad food or service - just move on. 

This also doesn't imply any wrong doing with T.I. Treasure Island Resort personal were cheerful and accomendating, providing us with wonderful service throughout. 

The next impressive hot spot was the nationally acclaimed metal artist Scott Cawood teamed with Metropolitan Choppers to create the custom Sirens of TI chopper on display in the TI Casino lobby. One word " Wow!"

Of course, we had to take in the took in the Sirens of TI with performance times:

5:30 p.m. (winter only)
7:00 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
10:00 p.m.
11:30 p.m. (summer only)

What a fun way to spend the evening. To top it off we had a late luncheon at the Canter’s Delicatessen which has been a landmark establishment in L.A. since 1931, now serving at Treasure Island. Quoted by TI, "...Serving fresh, homemade specialties such as hot pastrami, corned beef, roast turkey and authentic matzo ball soup, Canter’s Deli offers delicious casual fare daily."

Update 2013 : the Canter's Deli has been replaced by :  Little Richies Chicago Style Beef & Dogs

We shared the corned beef sandwich with the largest pickle I have ever seen. This one sandwich was more than enough and well worth the price of $15.

Of course, like ever other resort in Las Vegas, we had to enjoy the pool scene.  It was an awesome experience with wonderful servers. 

Overall our stay at T.I. was indeed enjoyable and would suggest this great fun-filled experience at Treasure Island Resort and Casino.

Unfortunately we never had a chance to enjoy Mystère at TI due to other plans, but you can enjoy this show for as low as $60 with up-front seats for $109. 

By Bari Demers

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Check out our most recent review of The Venetian, Las Vegas ( August 2013) 

The Venetian Las Vegas

About Vegas Reviews:

Vegas Reviews is not associated with any Vegas Hotels or paid by it's own personal reviews of hotels in Vegas.
We're just simply a fun host Facebook page featuring only about the fun in Vegas.
When we find a wonderful stay in Vegas, I like to write about the fun we had at the Vegas Hotel.

In this case we had fun. I don't give reviews very often, so when treated wonderful - I write about it.

Also - Vegas Reviews is not a company. Just a fun social Facebook Page having fun in Vegas. It would be nice to be paid for reviews, but this is just not the case here. So - if you enjoy all the fun in Vegas and would like to join our fun social page - please come on by : Vegas Reviews

Please share the fun and tell your friends about Vegas Reviews - Let's see how many friends of Vegas - are there?

Excalibur Review by Vegas Reviews

Excalibur Las Vegas Review by Vegas Reviews

Day One:



Excalibur, Las Vegas

Arrival at Excalibur would be described as painless and friendly front staff. Quick and easy access to our room with friendly staff greeting you within the hallways.

Rooms: 
The rooms on the fifth floor are compared to no-thrills but clean and functional. Our room had a King size bed with your basic TV and Internet access. Excalibur charges a daily fee of $9.95 which includes access to the pool, newspaper daily and Internet.

Update 2014 : Resort Fees are constantly going up.

Excalibur Resort Fees 2014 - $20.16  includes internet, fitness centre and business area. Remember the free drinks to your resort fees? Well, that's history now. And if you use your in-room phone, no charge for local calls. My question is : Who uses in-room phones to make local calls anymore?  We all seem to have our own cell phones. Waiting for the day when in-room phones won't exist anymore.  Aria Resort and Casino along with Cosmopolitan have new touch screen ipads now to acess all kinds of services. But, yes, the phone is still available. 
They also have a business station by Tower II which also provides computer, fax and business related options. This service was extra and could be charged to your credit card.

After our arrival we headed into the main casino of Excalibur and found a busy maintained casino.

We headed over to Sherwood Forest Cafe and enjoyed a very satisfying meal with great service.  After our meal we decided to head over to Luxor (easy access to the second floor) along a indoor path joining Excalibur, Luxor and Mandalay Bay. You also had to option of taking their free monorail to the adjoining hotel properties.


Day Two:

After much need rest with no interruptions we made our way back to Sherwood Forest Cafe for breakfast. We were greeted by a friendly server who made sure our meal was hot with very little wait. Felt sorry for this guy, so busy with no help.

Our average meal cost $9.95 which included eggs, toast, hash browns and your choice of bacon, ham or sausages. ( Please Note: Prices are changing constantly)

After a very satisfying meal our day was open to site seeing and getting our bearings throughout the Vegas strip. Great  overhead access walkways lead to the your choice of MGM Grand, New York New York or Tropicana. We decided on the MGM Grand, so we could try out the Vegas Monorail.

Entering the mega MGM Grand we were lead down the escalator with the Rain forest Restaurant on our left side. I must say its a nice theme!

Our task was to find the monorail.   After we were lead throughout the MGM Grand, passing by through the casino floor, around many shops and familiar restaurants, such as Emeril's, the monorail was found.  You can take a short-cut from the Rain Forest restaurant side, by the MGM washrooms.

Quickly we noticed by our sore tired feet, the monorail was a fair distance away, making me question the purpose of the monorail.  It was our belief that the monorail would prevent needless walks. We were wrong.  Each station we were dropped off, we had this long walk before we reached the Vegas Strip.  If only the monorail was easy quick access throughout the strip.

After our first day of taking the Vegas Monorail it was apparent that the bus system had better access, but very crowded. Instead of the Vegas Monorail system in the back of each Vegas property, it would make sense to provide better access in front of the properties.

We have found the free ARIA Express from the Monte Carlo through to Bellagio had better access to its properties, such as Vdara, Aria, Monte Carlo and Bellagio.

Day Three:

Once again we took our long walk to the Vegas Monorail and proceeded down the strip to Caesars Palace and Bellagio.

Back to our familiar grounds, we stepped into the lobby of Caesars Palace greeted by their inviting Christmas decor. After a long while in Caesars Palace we headed over to Bellagio hope to find their Christmas Theme in the Bellagio Conservatory Garden, but found the Thanksgiving Theme instead. It made sense, since Thanksgiving was today.

The rest of the day was walk, walk, walk, walk, walk, along the Vegas Strip. The strip was busy and crowded due to the Thanksgiving Day.

Day Four:

Black Friday - Well, what can I say about Black Friday. In a few words: walk, walk, walk, walk and walk. My wife : shop, shop, shop and shop. No wonder they call it Black Friday.

Day Five:

Another great breakfast at Sherwood Forest Cafe of Excalibur and we were off to another day of exploring.

Towards late afternoon we thought we try Dick's Last Resort,also within Excalibur's property. It looked like a fun  place to catch some great finger foods and satisfying few drinks. To our surprise, it wasn't.  We decided to head back to Sherwood Forest Cafe for that friendly service we couldn't find at Dick's Last Resort.  Maybe the name "Dick" implies their service.

That same evening we had tickets to see Carrot Top within the Luxor Properties. The young comedian rewards his guests with a fun performance.

Day Six:

Woke up in our room noticing movement on the wall by the mirror. My wife was already up and had a closer look. To her surprise the wall was covered with little ants going about their daily activity. Not too surprising this time of year, but kind of makes you itch. Not a problem - hurried got dressed and headed down to front desk. Due to being on the fifth floor, the girl was not too surprised and quickly moved us to another suite on the third floor.

Some say the ants are attracted by food or sugar, but we had no food items in the room. Anyway, a small inconvenience and we were once again settled in another room within an hour.

Day Seven: Uneventful day, had fun and just enjoyed ourselves.

Vegas Strip

In Conclusion:

Vegas Reviews would recommend Excalibur as long as you aren't expecting any thrills. You do have the option of  upgrading your room, but this particular trip we decided it wasn't necessary. Mind you, our overall cost for a seven day trip for two was only $1100.  Not bad, considering flight is included. 

Update 2014: You would really be hard press to find the above prices as mentioned. 

During our stay we had a great time with our enjoyable buffet of prime rib and turkey at the Round table Buffet where All You Can Feast.

Some tiny problems, but we did have "fun" and that is the main reason for being in Vegas.

Vegas Reviews comes to Vegas twics a year with past visits to T.I. (Treasure Island), Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood, Mirage,MGM Grand, Bellagio,Sahara, Paris,Bally's and once upon a time, the Maxim Hotel which was closed on Nov. 21 1999.

Within our stays Vegas Reviews has visit all the Vegas Properties and  experienced it's many restaurants, shows and casino's, including downtown.

Our last scouting visit to the City Center caught our eye and found it an impressive Vegas Resort to visit.

Come on join the "fun" on Facebook : Vegas Reviews 

About Vegas Reviews:

Vegas Reviews is not associated with any Vegas Hotels or paid by it's own personal reviews of hotels in Vegas.
We're just simply a fun host Facebook page featuring only about the fun in Vegas.

When we find a wonderful stay in Vegas, I like to write about the fun we had at the Vegas Hotel.

In this case we had fun. I don't give reviews very often, so when treated wonderful - I write about it.

Also - Vegas Reviews is not a company. Just a fun social Facebook Page having fun in Vegas. It would be nice to be paid for reviews, but this is just not the case here. So - if you enjoy all the fun in Vegas and would like to join our fun social page - please come on by : Vegas Reviews

Please share the fun and tell your friends about Vegas Reviews - Let's see how many friends of Vegas - are there?

Enjoy your stay in Las Vegas

Make Your Stay in Vegas an Enjoyable Experience

Bellagio Las Vegas - Looking down 27th Floor

My wife and I have had the opportunity to see Las Vegas, visiting finer hotels, such as Caesars Palace, Bellagio, Treasure Island and The Mirage. All within a four year period. 

By following a few easy tips you won't leave Vegas disappointed.

About Vegas

Sin City is open 24 hrs, 7 days a week with over 36 million visitors per year. Las Vegas is a fast pace non-stop city of entertainment where you can enjoy the nightlife or just relax by the pool. Take in the fun attractions, such as the Grand Canyon Tour to the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. Las Vegas has a lot to offer but can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the fast pace of Vegas.


Plan Ahead

Enjoy your stay by planning as much as you can in a 3-4 day excursion. Vegas is not only for adults, but for the whole family with fun-filled packages at Circus Circus, Excalibur and New York New York. Don't try to visit all of Vegas in just one trip, plan to spend time at your hotel, go on a Grand Canyon Tour, shopping and maybe see a few other hotels. But the key is not to try everything at once. Vegas is way too big and requires a few trips.

Common Mistakes

A newcomer will try to see all the sites during their first visit and find it overwhelming after the second day. They find themselves stuck in traffic with the famous deuce bus system deuce bus packed like a can of sardines. Some will seek the Las Vegas monorail thinking this form of transportation will solve their problems.Las Vegas Monorail is faster but because the drop-offs are at the very back of the mega hotels, you end up walking just as much. But Las Vegas Monorail can be a quick form of transportation, starting point at MGM Grand to as far as the Sahara Vegas Station.The last thing you want is become caught up in the maze of traffic or bombarded by wall to wall people.

Vegas Tips

Las Vegas is like enjoying a glass of red wine. You don’t gulp down an expensive wine – you sip it slowly, taking in all the flavors it has to offer.
Here are some tips to help you out:
1. Plan to visit Vegas a few times with intervals from two to four days, preferably from Sunday to Thursday allowing for the best rates. Weekends are always busy with rising rates to suit the crowd.
2. Months before your trip, sign-up to various newsletters offered by Vegas Hotels.
3. Keep up on what other are saying on Vegas Reviews.
4. Plan a Budget that suits your lifestyle

Check your local Airline packages: You can spend from $600 - $3500 for two during 3-4 nights stay. Of course this includes airfare + rooms + flight taxes. This does not include user fees depending on the resort you’re staying. 

Even though other resorts claim no user fees – you still are pay at least $65 per night – but just remember – you can’t use internet or fitness room without an extra charge with add on taxes. As long as you’re aware of extra charges and taxes, it won’t come as a surprise on your credit card later.


· Check out Las Vegas Resorts Promotions on Facebook or twitter

· Be aware meals are no longer dirt cheap in Vegas but they still are reasonable. For best value look for promotions like the All Day Buffets from $24.99 - $50 per person. Spending $80.00 per day for two is really not that bad considering you can spend as much as $300 per day for two. Take advantage of using your All Day Buffets promotions or holiday Buffet offers.

· Entertainment Attractions on a budget,whichever entertainment attractions you pick – make sure they are close together. For example the Shark Reef , Bodies, Titanic and The Roller Coaster is all in close proximate to each other.

Shopping or Gambling Budget: Find a budget that suits your lifestyle.


5. Explore your Resort: Get to know your hotel with all its amenities, including obtaining a Players Card of your choice.
6. Player Cards: You can only get your card once you are in Las Vegas. Once you have your card or cards you can go on-line to check out all the promotions. You must be legal age of 21 years old to obtain a card.
7. Once you can find yourself around the hotel, now it’s time to adventure out to other hotels to see what you are missing. Go out and enjoy all the Free Entertainment, such as: Fountains of the Bellagio, The Sirens of T.I. ( Treasure Island) or the Volcano at the Mirage.

Wear Good Walking Shoes
Plan ahead, wear good walking shoes and bring plenty of water.
Monte Carlo is center within the Vegas Strip with easy access to a complimentary tram service heading directly to CityCenter which includes Aria, Vdara, Veer Tower, Mandarin Oriental and the shops with Crystals; not to mention all the restaurant choices.

Staying at Excalibur  It has easy access to with a complimentary tram to Luxor and Mandalay Bay, which offers the Shark Reef.

Staying at Caesars Palace? It has easy access to the Colosseum and elaborate shops & restaurants to choose from.

Important to take your time and just visit a few.

If you have kids, one of the best places for kids are New York New York and Circus Circus.Your kids will love you with all the great entertainment possibilities for kids, from the roller coaster to exciting rides and quick bites.

The Key
The key is to keep coming back and get to know Vegas. With good planning along with a life style budget you are sure to enjoy the many opportunities in Las Vegas.

 Check out our most recent  Vegas Reviews at the Venetian Las Vegas - One Word: Wonderful - Be sure to join Vegas Reviews on facebook and check out what all the "fun" is about at the hotels, restaurants and entertainment in Vegas.