Weird decoration to see in a Vegas casino...
Location : 3355 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109,
Thursday, 31 March 2011
Wednesday, 30 March 2011
Check-in. Hopefully...
Apparently 3 rooms for 3 nights for 5 people is too complicated...
Location : 593 E Tropicana Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89109,
The Room Draw.
Many hours have passed on the plane organising the room allocations. Here at the results.
Wed/Thu - Paul+Rob, Mike+G, Phil
Fri - Phil+Rob, Mike+Paul, G
Sat/Sun - Mike+Rob, G+Phil, Paul
Mon/Tue - Rob+G, Paul+Phil, Mike
Diabetic Humbugs
Nope, not the name of some cutting edge electronica duo based in Vegas, but actually Rob's in-flight sweets of choice.
I guess it says something about our state of tiredness (and a lot more about the state of our sense of humour) when diabetic humbugs have been the source of many a joke. We've been on this plane for over 12 hours straight thanks to our brief stop at Glasgow - it's been a long flight and so the jokes are struggling.
On the plus side, I've demonstrated a never before seen good run at Texas Hold 'em leaving me as current chip leader after many hours play. Those who know how bad I actually am should be pretty impressed at this.
Unfortunately, Mike has stolen all of my limelight by hitting on one of the leaderboard challenges already - he's only gone and won a pot with Pocket Threes before we've even touched down in Vegas, taking a big pot in the process.
Hope mine and Mike's luck remains once we hit the casinos proper...
p. s. I've just witnessed the most complicated method of sorting out who is sharing with who in the rooms. Didn't realise it was that complicated!
Location : Address not available
Bright Lights of.... Glasgow
Currently sat on the runway in Glasgow picking up some more passengers.
Phil's had the first power snooze, and I have the early lead in mile high poker.
Rob's got some diabetic humbugs to get him through the flight, see you in Vegas.
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device
And so it begins....
Here we are in Manchester. 4.30 am. Already best part of a tenner down in exchange for a poor breakfast.
Monday, 28 March 2011
Exchange Rate Lottery
Lost out on the 1.591 available last week, instead had to settle for 1.555.
Think it was the guy's first day in the job as he first of all told me they didn't do traveller's cheques, then when I convinced him they did, he found them and tried to give me Canadian Dollars!
He was reading the training manual as he was serving me, it took me 25 minutes to get a mix of cash and cheques, paying with my credit card.
At least he gave me a nice envelope to put it all in. Every Little Helps.
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device
29 degrees
The weather is looking good.
29 degrees this coming Friday. I expect more time around the pools than previously anticipated.
(I will find that pool with the blackjack table in it!)
29 degrees this coming Friday. I expect more time around the pools than previously anticipated.
(I will find that pool with the blackjack table in it!)
Packed & Ready..
I've packed and this is my inventory.
1 x smart shoes
2 x daytime shoes/trainers
3 x jeans (+ 1 I'll be wearing)
2 x trousers/jeans style.
7 x shirts
8 x t-shirts
1 x smart shorts
1 x swimming shorts
1 x jumper
Underwear
Cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Passport
Money
Plane Tickets
Credit Cards
iPod
Headphones
Phone Charger
Plug Adapter
Playing Cards
Driving Licence
ESTA sorted
Travel Insurance sorted
Advanced Passenger Info done for all of us
Outstanding Issues:
Bank couldnt unblock my card in advance! (Natwest - rubbish)
Need some in flight entertainment / book
Not taking a camera or laptop
Not got a data boost for my phone as it was too expensive
Post a comment if you have packed something that I haven't !
1 x smart shoes
2 x daytime shoes/trainers
3 x jeans (+ 1 I'll be wearing)
2 x trousers/jeans style.
7 x shirts
8 x t-shirts
1 x smart shorts
1 x swimming shorts
1 x jumper
Underwear
Cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Passport
Money
Plane Tickets
Credit Cards
iPod
Headphones
Phone Charger
Plug Adapter
Playing Cards
Driving Licence
ESTA sorted
Travel Insurance sorted
Advanced Passenger Info done for all of us
Outstanding Issues:
Bank couldnt unblock my card in advance! (Natwest - rubbish)
Need some in flight entertainment / book
Not taking a camera or laptop
Not got a data boost for my phone as it was too expensive
Post a comment if you have packed something that I haven't !
Sunday, 27 March 2011
Wednesday, 23 March 2011
Craps...
Craps is a dice game in which players place wagers on the outcome of the roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice.
Players take turns rolling two dice and whoever is throwing the dice is called the "shooter". Players can bet on the various options by placing chips in the appropriate sections of the board. It may be required to ask the dealer to place certain bets.
While acting as the shooter, a player must have a bet on the "Pass" line or the "Don't Pass" line. Pass and don’t pass are sometimes called "Win" or "Right" and "Don’t Win" or "Wrong" bets.
The game is played in rounds and these "Pass" and "Don't Pass" bets are betting on the outcome of a round. The shooter is often replaced at the end of the round or when they lose a round with a seven.
Each round has two phases: "come-out" and "point". To start a round, the shooter makes one or more "come-out" rolls. A come-out roll of 2, 3 or 12 loses and is called "craps". Anyone betting on the Pass line loses in this situation. A come-out roll of 7 or 11 (a "natural") wins and results in a payout for "pass line" bets. The other possible numbers are the point numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10.
If the shooter rolls one of these numbers on the come-out roll, this establishes the "point" - the number that must be rolled again before a seven. The dealer flips a button to the "On" side and moves it to the point number signifying the second phase of the round. If the shooter rolls a seven before repeating the point number (a "seven-out"), the Pass line loses and the round ends
Players take turns rolling two dice and whoever is throwing the dice is called the "shooter". Players can bet on the various options by placing chips in the appropriate sections of the board. It may be required to ask the dealer to place certain bets.
While acting as the shooter, a player must have a bet on the "Pass" line or the "Don't Pass" line. Pass and don’t pass are sometimes called "Win" or "Right" and "Don’t Win" or "Wrong" bets.
The game is played in rounds and these "Pass" and "Don't Pass" bets are betting on the outcome of a round. The shooter is often replaced at the end of the round or when they lose a round with a seven.
Each round has two phases: "come-out" and "point". To start a round, the shooter makes one or more "come-out" rolls. A come-out roll of 2, 3 or 12 loses and is called "craps". Anyone betting on the Pass line loses in this situation. A come-out roll of 7 or 11 (a "natural") wins and results in a payout for "pass line" bets. The other possible numbers are the point numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10.
If the shooter rolls one of these numbers on the come-out roll, this establishes the "point" - the number that must be rolled again before a seven. The dealer flips a button to the "On" side and moves it to the point number signifying the second phase of the round. If the shooter rolls a seven before repeating the point number (a "seven-out"), the Pass line loses and the round ends
Leaderboards
Below are some of the leaderboards i'll try to keep track of throughout the week. All records will be from this trip only.
Biggest Pot won with Pocket 3s (homage to the blog)
- A special prize will be awarded when we can think of one.
Biggest Cash Game Pot Won
-Old record (Rob 2006 303 Big Blinds)
Highest Tournament Place Finisher
Single day Profit Poker Only
Single Biggest Win (Non-Poker)
Single Day Profit excluding Poker
Most free drinks obtained at the table in one sitting (if we can keep count!)
suggestions are welcome
Biggest Pot won with Pocket 3s (homage to the blog)
- A special prize will be awarded when we can think of one.
Biggest Cash Game Pot Won
-Old record (Rob 2006 303 Big Blinds)
Highest Tournament Place Finisher
Single day Profit Poker Only
Single Biggest Win (Non-Poker)
Single Day Profit excluding Poker
Most free drinks obtained at the table in one sitting (if we can keep count!)
suggestions are welcome
Mile High Poker
If we are lucky enough to sit near each other on the plane we might be able to engage in "Mile High Poker".
This involves some really awkward dealing, verbally raising amounts and then a piece of paper & pen (+ some Carol Vordeman maths) to keep track of everyone's stacks. There is no room to be fiddling around with chips, falling under peoples seat's etc.
It's not the easiest to get a read on someone sat behind you so only really if you are sat along side each other.
Doesn't sounds great does it? But it gets your brain lubed up for poker so we can hit the ground running (hopefully not literally!) . This is especially for those who havent been getting up at 5.30am to "train" each day.
It passes the time I guess.
They wont have WiFi on ClownAirways (which would have been ideal for an online-Mile High tournament!).
This involves some really awkward dealing, verbally raising amounts and then a piece of paper & pen (+ some Carol Vordeman maths) to keep track of everyone's stacks. There is no room to be fiddling around with chips, falling under peoples seat's etc.
It's not the easiest to get a read on someone sat behind you so only really if you are sat along side each other.
Doesn't sounds great does it? But it gets your brain lubed up for poker so we can hit the ground running (hopefully not literally!) . This is especially for those who havent been getting up at 5.30am to "train" each day.
It passes the time I guess.
They wont have WiFi on ClownAirways (which would have been ideal for an online-Mile High tournament!).
Celeb spotting
I've heard there is a good chance of seeing a few celebs in Vegas.
Rob tells me he bumped into Hugo from Lost on his last visit.
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Other Daytime Highlights
I have noticed more and more events are being announced as we get closer.
Some highlights include a few of the guys from Swedish House Mafia are DJing at Wet Republic Ultra Pool (MGM Grand) from noon on the Sunday
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/wet-republic-ultra-pool/size-matters-2/
and Lavo (Venetian) have just opened a "beer garden" out on a terrace on the strip - opened today.
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/lavo/lavo-terrace-beer-garden-on-the-strip-opening/
Some highlights include a few of the guys from Swedish House Mafia are DJing at Wet Republic Ultra Pool (MGM Grand) from noon on the Sunday
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/wet-republic-ultra-pool/size-matters-2/
and Lavo (Venetian) have just opened a "beer garden" out on a terrace on the strip - opened today.
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/lavo/lavo-terrace-beer-garden-on-the-strip-opening/
General Night-life Guides
We should all understand this stuff (maybe a lot of it is obvious, but I wanna make sure we are all on the same page)
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/things-to-know-before-you-arrive-in-las-vegas/
I do like the quote "Las Vegas was built on the carcasses of fallen bank accounts"
plus these are a bit sales-like but interesting:
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/what-the-term-vip-really-means-in-las-vegas/
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/the-night-has-arrived-tips-on-going-out/
(they haven't finished building the rest of the website yet!)
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/things-to-know-before-you-arrive-in-las-vegas/
I do like the quote "Las Vegas was built on the carcasses of fallen bank accounts"
plus these are a bit sales-like but interesting:
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/what-the-term-vip-really-means-in-las-vegas/
http://yourweekinvegas.com/guides/the-night-has-arrived-tips-on-going-out/
(they haven't finished building the rest of the website yet!)
Monday, 21 March 2011
Tao on Thursday
$180 each would get us a VIP table and $700 worth of booze.
VIP Table-Lounge or Beach Club Level (Thursday): $896.70, includes admission for six, table and $700.00 in alcoholic beverages. Gratuity and tax included. Guests must arrive by 11 p.m. and present confirmation to host.
And of course Rob's mate Justin is there.
VIP Table-Lounge or Beach Club Level (Thursday): $896.70, includes admission for six, table and $700.00 in alcoholic beverages. Gratuity and tax included. Guests must arrive by 11 p.m. and present confirmation to host.
And of course Rob's mate Justin is there.
Rain on Friday
This seems like a good deal.
Rain Hosted Bar Package: (Friday) $75 - Includes VIP designated hosted bar at Rain from 11 p.m.-2 a.m. featuring Ketel One Vodka, 1519 Tequila, Harlem Kruiden Liquor, Red Bull and Fiji water, plus mixers. Gratuity Included. (Guests are required to go to the STUFF Store to pick up wristband prior to walking up to venue entrance. Will Call hours are 8 p.m.-1 a.m.)
http://www.vegas.com/nightclubs/rain/
I could definitely drink $75 worth of Ketel One and Red Bull in 3 hours.
Rain Hosted Bar Package: (Friday) $75 - Includes VIP designated hosted bar at Rain from 11 p.m.-2 a.m. featuring Ketel One Vodka, 1519 Tequila, Harlem Kruiden Liquor, Red Bull and Fiji water, plus mixers. Gratuity Included. (Guests are required to go to the STUFF Store to pick up wristband prior to walking up to venue entrance. Will Call hours are 8 p.m.-1 a.m.)
http://www.vegas.com/nightclubs/rain/
I could definitely drink $75 worth of Ketel One and Red Bull in 3 hours.
The Pub @ Monte Carlo
Anyone been here before?
http://www.montecarlo.com/restaurants/the-pub.aspx
Check out the beer menu.
This is where you'll find me after I've busted with pocket three's.
http://www.montecarlo.com/restaurants/the-pub.aspx
Check out the beer menu.
This is where you'll find me after I've busted with pocket three's.
Friday, 18 March 2011
Thursday, 17 March 2011
Pool hall
Anyone for Mickey's Cues and Brews? Great name!
http://www.mickeyscues.com/
If we get bored of poker, but still want some skill based wagers. $5 a rack in Mickey's fine establishment.
http://www.mickeyscues.com/
If we get bored of poker, but still want some skill based wagers. $5 a rack in Mickey's fine establishment.
You all know who Judson Laipply is, right...?
Well, you must have seen that one of the most watched youtube clips (167 million views) of the guy that dances on stage to loads of different songs for a few seconds in different styles "The Evolution of Dance"?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg <- if you somehow haven't.
We're likely to be in TAO on the Thursday night anyway when he makes a guest appearance...
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/tao/worship-thursday-featuring-youtube-sensation-judso/
OK - not the highlight of the week I hope..!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg <- if you somehow haven't.
We're likely to be in TAO on the Thursday night anyway when he makes a guest appearance...
http://www.spyonvegas.com/events/tao/worship-thursday-featuring-youtube-sensation-judso/
OK - not the highlight of the week I hope..!
Tuesday, 15 March 2011
Calling home
I don't know how often you're all planning to phone home during the week, but I will be calling at least every other day to say hi to the kids.
I've bought a calling card online.
I don't know whether it will be any good, but by dialling another number followed by the number of the person you're calling, you get cheap rates.
It is 1 cent per minute to a UK landline or 10 cents per minute to a UK mobile.
I can use my mobile to do this, as I have bought a US sim card, so it will be charged as a local call by my mobile provider, then the additional 1 cent will come off the calling card.
If you only have a UK mobile, you may be better using a hotel landline instead.
Worth considering if you plan on calling home much.
I've bought a calling card online.
I don't know whether it will be any good, but by dialling another number followed by the number of the person you're calling, you get cheap rates.
It is 1 cent per minute to a UK landline or 10 cents per minute to a UK mobile.
I can use my mobile to do this, as I have bought a US sim card, so it will be charged as a local call by my mobile provider, then the additional 1 cent will come off the calling card.
If you only have a UK mobile, you may be better using a hotel landline instead.
Worth considering if you plan on calling home much.
Manchester Airport
Below are the options for getting to the airport. (All 5 of us are coming from Liverpool)
Thoughts?
- Might be able to get 2 lifts off people (leaving in the region of 5am!)
- Taxi - £80 - £100 between us? If we can all get in one
- Park & Ride (1.5 miles out) - £28 per car (2 cars min.)
- On site park & shorter ride (possibly more secure) - £39 per car (2 cars min.)
Thoughts?
Deep Stack Extravaganza
Anyone who's keen on tournament poker, there's a deep stack series starting at the Venetian on 1st April.
http://www.venetian.com/Pages.aspx?id=2451
Lots of play, and good blind structures.
Could walk away with $20k if you get lucky.
http://www.venetian.com/Pages.aspx?id=2451
Lots of play, and good blind structures.
Could walk away with $20k if you get lucky.
Bring shorts!
TAO Beach (day club) season opening party 2nd April:
http://www.vegasnews.com/42719/supermodel-irina-shayk-to-tao-beach-season-opening-party-april-2.html
"TAO Beach will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until sunset. SKAM Artists will entertain crowds every Friday, with DJs from Miami, LA and beyond, kicking off every weekend in Las Vegas. Beatport Beach Party presented by Insomniac returns for the season, with acclaimed DJs spinning house music wrapping up the weekend each Sunday.
http://www.vegasnews.com/42719/supermodel-irina-shayk-to-tao-beach-season-opening-party-april-2.html
"TAO Beach will be open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until sunset. SKAM Artists will entertain crowds every Friday, with DJs from Miami, LA and beyond, kicking off every weekend in Las Vegas. Beatport Beach Party presented by Insomniac returns for the season, with acclaimed DJs spinning house music wrapping up the weekend each Sunday.
TAO Beach offers the hottest daytime experience in Las Vegas. By day, guests can secure a reservation to lounge poolside in one of twelve luxury cabanas that feature such amenities as air-conditioning, high definition plasma screen televisions with gaming consoles, a DVD library, WiFi, and customized mini bars. Other amenities include sunglass cleaning, a staff of masseuses, and personal body misters who will cool you down upon request. Asian-inspired day beds are scattered throughout the 18,000 square foot oasis, which also includes a 30-foot bar where guests can sip on TAO-tinis and TAO-jitos made with fresh exotic ingredients. An extensive appetizer, sushi and grill menu from the kitchen of TAO Asian Bistro is available 11am-6pm daily.
Each weekend TAO Beach will serve as an extension of the famed nightclub with cabanas and tables for VIP bottle service. As night falls, guests will find themselves in an open-air nightclub featuring 14-foot fire columns, high-energy music from resident and international guest DJs, and strategically-placed beds, perfect for lounging with friends while taking in the action."
Monday, 14 March 2011
Kings Busted!
Hope there's not too much of this going on in Vegas. I'm mikkkel32 - all the money was in pre-flop - get the bad luck out of the way in training I say!
Ride of your life?
Surprised no-one has mentionned these yet!
http://www.stratospherehotel.com/Tower/Rides
Check them out on YouTube - Sky Jump looks amazing!
http://www.stratospherehotel.com/Tower/Rides
Check them out on YouTube - Sky Jump looks amazing!
Training
Below are some optional pre-Vegas "training" ideas (some are serious suggestions!):
(I remember training for Wizbongre's stag do which involved canyonning in ice cold Scottish lochs by taking ice cold showers for a week before work to get used to the body shock! [not advised])
- Deprive yourself of sleep. Get your body used to not sleeping for long periods of time (Those who live with young children need not apply!)
- Alternative tactic: get more sleep than usual to ensure fully rested for the trip (?)
- Practice putting in the dark down your stairs (for the night-crazy-golf tournament)
- Playing more (at least some) online poker.
- Reading poker books (related to live poker like "200 poker tells" by Joe Navaro)
- Learn the rules of some table games. Craps, Pai Gow, Bacarat, Three Card Poker
- Catch up with the latest dance choons so you know what you are listening too! (maybe not as extreme as the weekly Tiesto podcast, this is a bit too hardcore - but at least current chart dance stuff.)
- Diet a little (as fried chicken & burgers every day WILL take it's toll)
- Oil up the ol' liver with a few drinks involving pineapples, green stuff, Toms and some Collins (whatever they are!)
- Take afternoon naps to get used to a power snooze schedule
- Set some money on fire to get used to devaluing it psychologically
(I remember training for Wizbongre's stag do which involved canyonning in ice cold Scottish lochs by taking ice cold showers for a week before work to get used to the body shock! [not advised])
Olympic poker training
Wizbongre is obviously not taking the final countdown to our poker odyssey seriously enough.
"You'd think we were competing in some olympic event listening to you lot talking about training!"
14.3.2011
With this apparent lack of focus with only 2 weeks to go, I've devised a training program for everyone to stick to, to ensure we take down Vegas - Poker style - as previously discussed. This is based on Ace Jack's suggestions with some Olympic style discipline thrown in.
Every day - 24hr training schedule
5am - Wake up, eat 7 raw eggs.
5.15am - Cold shower
5.30am - Poker cash session, 6 tables
8am - run to work (cheesy chart tunes on Ipod)
12pm - eat whole chicken, and lots of brown rice
12-1pm - learn table games on internet during lunch hour
3pm - afternoon nap in stationary cupboard
5pm - run home from work (cheesy chart tunes on Ipod)
5.30-6.30pm - read poker strategy literature in the bath/on toilet
6.30pm - protein shake and more brown rice
7pm - say hi to wife
7.02pm - poker cash session, 6 tables
8-11pm - play multiple poker tournaments while drinking mojito's and woo woo's
11pm-3am - 4 hours of Rush Poker to speed up thinking while drunk
3-5am - sleep
5am - REPEAT
"You'd think we were competing in some olympic event listening to you lot talking about training!"
14.3.2011
With this apparent lack of focus with only 2 weeks to go, I've devised a training program for everyone to stick to, to ensure we take down Vegas - Poker style - as previously discussed. This is based on Ace Jack's suggestions with some Olympic style discipline thrown in.
Every day - 24hr training schedule
5am - Wake up, eat 7 raw eggs.
5.15am - Cold shower
5.30am - Poker cash session, 6 tables
8am - run to work (cheesy chart tunes on Ipod)
12pm - eat whole chicken, and lots of brown rice
12-1pm - learn table games on internet during lunch hour
3pm - afternoon nap in stationary cupboard
5pm - run home from work (cheesy chart tunes on Ipod)
5.30-6.30pm - read poker strategy literature in the bath/on toilet
6.30pm - protein shake and more brown rice
7pm - say hi to wife
7.02pm - poker cash session, 6 tables
8-11pm - play multiple poker tournaments while drinking mojito's and woo woo's
11pm-3am - 4 hours of Rush Poker to speed up thinking while drunk
3-5am - sleep
5am - REPEAT
Cosmic Golf
This course is just as nice, and just as exclusive as Shadow Creek, but you are not tied to playing in daylight hours.
www.theputtpark.com/
You can play Glow in the Dark golf!
I'm sure they have limo's too.
www.theputtpark.com/
You can play Glow in the Dark golf!
I'm sure they have limo's too.
Shadow Creek
Do you think they would let hackers on?
http://www.lasvegasgolf.com/departments/coursereviews/lasvegas/shadow-creek.htm
"Greens Fees include Limo service to and from the course." - I suspect not.
http://www.lasvegasgolf.com/departments/coursereviews/lasvegas/shadow-creek.htm
"Greens Fees include Limo service to and from the course." - I suspect not.
Sunday, 13 March 2011
The Outward Trip
Noticed that Ace Jack informs us we are not guaranteed to be sitting near each other. Surely if we arrive together and check-in together they'll be able to sort that out? At least a 3 and a 2?
On that note, how far in advance of the flight do we have to check in? Is it something crazy like 3hrs with it being a flight to the US? With the flight leaving 7.40am that would mean... anyone for a game of Poker the night before?
My top 3 tips for the journey (all learnt from previous trips to Vegas):
1. Avoid the Full-English at Manchester Airport, or at least order extra toast (50p per slice). Worst value for money food I've ever seen in my life.
2. Avoid drinking 4 pints on the outward journey - last thing you want is to feel lousy and tired on arrival.
3. Take a maximum buy-in for the on-flight game of Poker - Ace Jack is an ATM in the air.
On that note, how far in advance of the flight do we have to check in? Is it something crazy like 3hrs with it being a flight to the US? With the flight leaving 7.40am that would mean... anyone for a game of Poker the night before?
My top 3 tips for the journey (all learnt from previous trips to Vegas):
1. Avoid the Full-English at Manchester Airport, or at least order extra toast (50p per slice). Worst value for money food I've ever seen in my life.
2. Avoid drinking 4 pints on the outward journey - last thing you want is to feel lousy and tired on arrival.
3. Take a maximum buy-in for the on-flight game of Poker - Ace Jack is an ATM in the air.
Saturday, 12 March 2011
ESTA - tick
Just checked my application:-
"Authorization Approved
Your travel authorization has been approved and you are authorized to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. This does not guarantee admission to the United States; a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at a port of entry will have the final determination."
So that's good.
"Authorization Approved
Your travel authorization has been approved and you are authorized to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. This does not guarantee admission to the United States; a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at a port of entry will have the final determination."
So that's good.
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Flight Details
The plane tickets arrived today (what ever happened to etickets?, I do worry about how behind the times Thomas Cook are). Anyway, I thought it would be useful to post the details here for reference:
Outbound: Flight: TCX124 (Airbus 330)
Departs: Wed 30/03/11 07:40 Manchester Terminal 1
[Goes via Glasgow, I think we stay on the plane here]
Arrives: Wed 30/03/11 13:00 Las Vegas Terminal 2 (LV is 8 hours behind UK)
Inbound Flight TCX125 (Airbus 330)
Outbound: Flight: TCX124 (Airbus 330)
Departs: Wed 30/03/11 07:40 Manchester Terminal 1
[Goes via Glasgow, I think we stay on the plane here]
Arrives: Wed 30/03/11 13:00 Las Vegas Terminal 2 (LV is 8 hours behind UK)
Inbound Flight TCX125 (Airbus 330)
Departs: Wed 06/04/11 15:00 Las Vegas Terminal 2
[Goes via Glasgow, we disembark and bags are rescanned!]
Arrives: Thu 07/04/11 11:45 Manchester Terminal 1
Max baggage: 20kg and hand luggage max. 5kg (I hope the chicken suit is light! ... and no, I won't be wearing it on the plane!)
We are not guaranteed to sit near each other (without paying a fotune), so bring 12 hours of self entertainment! (I'm pretty sure they won't have WiFi on the flight if they cant even email us our flight tickets!)
Vegas for Poker Noobs
Well, for those who don't know, I'm not that big a gambler. Actually, lets put that into perspective, I don't even place a bet on the Grand National, which is somewhat of an institution in the UK and for almost everyone I know. To be honest, gambling has never appealed as a fun passtime for me. Poker, specifically Texas Hold 'em, on the other hand I do enjoy playing but purely as a social activity - an opportunity to have a few beers and a laugh with my friends.
Given the destination for this stag do is Vegas, and the Stag and his other close friends are all Poker crazy, it does put me at a slight disadvantage...
So, I've been left with two options:
1. Find other, non-gambling stuff to do in Vegas
2. Brush up on my Poker knowledge
I've been playing Poker with these guys for a number of years now but never felt the need to really get into the technicalities of it, such as the mental arithmatic, involved, so to an extent option 2 wasn't really a good start.
So I thought I'd start on option 1 and hit Google for some help. After finding lots of suggestions about architecture, shopping, golf, spa's, shows, etc I'm now back panic reading about Poker!
Postflop positional disadvantage is what its all about.
Apparently.
p.s. Be careful using Google to search for fun things to do in Vegas that aren't Gambling - without the search filter turned on it could be a little NSFW.
Given the destination for this stag do is Vegas, and the Stag and his other close friends are all Poker crazy, it does put me at a slight disadvantage...
So, I've been left with two options:
1. Find other, non-gambling stuff to do in Vegas
2. Brush up on my Poker knowledge
I've been playing Poker with these guys for a number of years now but never felt the need to really get into the technicalities of it, such as the mental arithmatic, involved, so to an extent option 2 wasn't really a good start.
So I thought I'd start on option 1 and hit Google for some help. After finding lots of suggestions about architecture, shopping, golf, spa's, shows, etc I'm now back panic reading about Poker!
Postflop positional disadvantage is what its all about.
Apparently.
p.s. Be careful using Google to search for fun things to do in Vegas that aren't Gambling - without the search filter turned on it could be a little NSFW.
ESTA fun
I've just gone through the fun of completing my ESTA application for entry into the US.
No, I don't plan on engaging in criminal or terrorist behaviour, honest Guv. Really don't understand why such pointless questions are asked - logic would say that if someone were planning to commit something a little shady, the last thing they would do is acknowledge that on a visa application.
Anyway, got this response:-
Authorization Pending
Your travel authorization is under review because an immediate determination could not be made for your application. This response does not indicate negative findings. A determination will be available within 72 hours. Please return to this Web site and choose Update or Check the Status of a Previously Submitted Authorization to Travel to the United States. Your application number, passport number, and birth date will be required to check the status of your application.
Not sure if I should be worried...
No, I don't plan on engaging in criminal or terrorist behaviour, honest Guv. Really don't understand why such pointless questions are asked - logic would say that if someone were planning to commit something a little shady, the last thing they would do is acknowledge that on a visa application.
Anyway, got this response:-
Authorization Pending
Your travel authorization is under review because an immediate determination could not be made for your application. This response does not indicate negative findings. A determination will be available within 72 hours. Please return to this Web site and choose Update or Check the Status of a Previously Submitted Authorization to Travel to the United States. Your application number, passport number, and birth date will be required to check the status of your application.
Not sure if I should be worried...
Know Your Edge!
We recently discussed the casino house edge. Before you go crazy, know which games you are more likely to lose!:
Quick reminder of optimal strategy BlackJack http://www.blackjackencyclopedia.com/blackjack-strategies.html
Also, maybe remind yourself of the rules for craps (or learn them)! One of a million online tutorials: http://www.homepokergames.com/craps.php
Game | Bet/Rules | House Edge |
Baccarat | Banker | 1.17% |
Baccarat | Player | 1.36% |
Baccarat | Tie (pays 8:1) | 14.12% |
Blackjack | Single Deck | 0.20% |
Blackjack | Double Deck | 0.35% |
Blackjack | Four Decks | 0.51% |
Blackjack | Six Decks | 0.60% |
Blackjack | Eight Decks | 0.63% |
Craps | Pass/Come | 1.41% |
Craps | Don't Pass/Don't Come | 1.40% |
Craps | Pass + 1X Odds | 0.85% |
Craps | Pass + 2X Odds | 0.61% |
Craps | Pass + 5X Odds | 0.32% |
Craps | Pass + 10X Odds | 0.18% |
Craps | Pass + 100X Odds | 0.02% |
Craps | Field (2:1 on 12) | 5.56% |
Craps | Field (3:1 on 12) | 2.78% |
Craps | Any craps | 11.11% |
Pai Gow Poker | 2.50% | |
Roulette (Single Zero) | 2.70% | |
Roulette (Double Zero) | 5.26% | |
Slot Machines | $.05 | 15.20% |
Slot Machines | $.25 | 10.20% |
Slot Machines | $.50 | 9.10% |
Slot Machines | $1 | 8.10% |
Slot Machines | $5 | 5.50% |
Spanish 21 | 0.82% | |
Three Card Poker | Pair Plus | 2.32% |
Three Card Poker | Ante & Play | 1.46% |
Video Poker | 5/6/800 | 5.00% |
War | Go to war on Ties | 2.88% |
War | Surrender on Ties | 3.70% |
War | Bet on Ties | 18.65% |
Quick reminder of optimal strategy BlackJack http://www.blackjackencyclopedia.com/blackjack-strategies.html
Also, maybe remind yourself of the rules for craps (or learn them)! One of a million online tutorials: http://www.homepokergames.com/craps.php
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
Point Break.
Does anyone fancy doing something away from the tables....
http://lasvegasskydivingschool.com/1st-time-skydiving.html
Part with £120, watch a vid, sign a release of liability document, don the jump suit and after a 20 min flight jump out of a plane getting the best view of Vegas.
http://lasvegasskydivingschool.com/1st-time-skydiving.html
Part with £120, watch a vid, sign a release of liability document, don the jump suit and after a 20 min flight jump out of a plane getting the best view of Vegas.
Shaken, not stirred
Someone asked about Baccarat.. I have never noticed it but aparently...
Baccarat Bar
If you have any James Bond-style fantasies, this is probably the place to live them out. Play a civilised few rounds of baccarat as impeccably-dressed servers bring you luxurious cocktails against a backdrop of live piano music. Shaken or stirred, your Martini will be exquisitely prepared, and there's a sense of refinement to the gambling that you're unlikely to find on most casino floors. Situated in Bellagio's.
Baccarat Bar
If you have any James Bond-style fantasies, this is probably the place to live them out. Play a civilised few rounds of baccarat as impeccably-dressed servers bring you luxurious cocktails against a backdrop of live piano music. Shaken or stirred, your Martini will be exquisitely prepared, and there's a sense of refinement to the gambling that you're unlikely to find on most casino floors. Situated in Bellagio's.
On the list ?
Reading further we could go for entry only deal, so we don't have to go for full table service.
Las Vegas Nightclub Entry – VIP Style!
Don’t get stuck in 2-hour lines and risk even getting in. We meet you personally outside of the club and walk you in with zero lines of any type. You do not wait in a VIP line and even bypass people in the table and bottle service line.Do not attempt to gain access on your own. Do not wait till the last minute to make a plan.It is not like the olden days where you could walk up to the doorman and tip $20 at the last minute. In most cases, you will not even get close to VIP doorman. You will also be competing with hundreds of other people in the same situation, some with just as much money or more. By utilizing Red Carpet VIP, you can spend your day stress free and arrive at the club whenever you want. Our seasoned professional will arrange the most convenient time for your group and personally escort you into the club.
Las Vegas Nightclub Entry – VIP Style!
Don’t get stuck in 2-hour lines and risk even getting in. We meet you personally outside of the club and walk you in with zero lines of any type. You do not wait in a VIP line and even bypass people in the table and bottle service line.Do not attempt to gain access on your own. Do not wait till the last minute to make a plan.It is not like the olden days where you could walk up to the doorman and tip $20 at the last minute. In most cases, you will not even get close to VIP doorman. You will also be competing with hundreds of other people in the same situation, some with just as much money or more. By utilizing Red Carpet VIP, you can spend your day stress free and arrive at the club whenever you want. Our seasoned professional will arrange the most convenient time for your group and personally escort you into the club.
...Bottle Full Bub
I have been looking at options about getting us into clubs..
This is one of many companies offering ‘VIP packages’, although no prices without an enquirey as they are tayolred to the group.
http://vipnite.com/
As a few of us found last time, they explain how VIP passes to a tee...
In the case of VIP passes, VIP often means if you get to the cashier by 11 or 12pm, then you may have free entry or reduced admission. You still have to stand in the longest line they have and may not make it to the front of the line in time for the discount. And how vague is reduced admission? You'll see small print that says things like, "Not Valid on Holidays or during special events," and "All admission is subject to doorman discretion."
What they offer: Red Carpet VIP service - We always personally escort you into the club you want with zero lines.
When you book with Red Carpet VIP you will feel like a Celebrity. No hassles, no cold shoulder and no waiting. The only person you will ever have to talk to is your personal Red Carpet VIP host, and you will meet somewhere comfortably away from the chaos outside of the club. We will get you through the crowd, we will escort your group to the front of the line, the velvet rope will be opened and you get the table you were promised. Everyone fighting their way to get to the front of the club will be wondering who you are.
The question is.. is this a waste, or the best money we have ever spent !?
This is one of many companies offering ‘VIP packages’, although no prices without an enquirey as they are tayolred to the group.
http://vipnite.com/
As a few of us found last time, they explain how VIP passes to a tee...
In the case of VIP passes, VIP often means if you get to the cashier by 11 or 12pm, then you may have free entry or reduced admission. You still have to stand in the longest line they have and may not make it to the front of the line in time for the discount. And how vague is reduced admission? You'll see small print that says things like, "Not Valid on Holidays or during special events," and "All admission is subject to doorman discretion."
What they offer: Red Carpet VIP service - We always personally escort you into the club you want with zero lines.
When you book with Red Carpet VIP you will feel like a Celebrity. No hassles, no cold shoulder and no waiting. The only person you will ever have to talk to is your personal Red Carpet VIP host, and you will meet somewhere comfortably away from the chaos outside of the club. We will get you through the crowd, we will escort your group to the front of the line, the velvet rope will be opened and you get the table you were promised. Everyone fighting their way to get to the front of the club will be wondering who you are.
The question is.. is this a waste, or the best money we have ever spent !?
ESTA
Boys don’t forget your ESTA registration:
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/id_visa/esta/
Watch our for some ‘visa waver service’ sites which seem to charge more to process your application. Not clear what value they add to the process other than cost.
Also to note:
Your ESTA authorization is generally valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that as long as you received an ESTA authorization to travel, you do not have to reapply during the validity period. You may update your travel information; however this information is optional and is not required.
Note: Is it important to PRINT a copy of the document for your records. The printout is not required upon arrival into the United States, as the officers have the information electronically. Some airlines require the printout upon check-in, please check with your respective airline.
Credit Card Charges
I spoke to Tesco about credit card charges abroad and as mentioned previously they do charge 2.75% for ‘foreign exchange services’ so basically everything you buy in a foreign currency you pay 2.75% more for it.
I have been looking at foreign transactions on my statement and even if you drill down into the detail this additional charge is not obvious.
They confirmed on the phone that they adjust the exchange rate by this percentage to hide it, which to me is a little underhand.
It seems Nationwide offer a credit card that is free for foreign purchases.
I have been looking at foreign transactions on my statement and even if you drill down into the detail this additional charge is not obvious.
They confirmed on the phone that they adjust the exchange rate by this percentage to hide it, which to me is a little underhand.
It seems Nationwide offer a credit card that is free for foreign purchases.
Saturday, 5 March 2011
Stuntman Training
I've now signed us all up for the Stuntman Action Camp running in Vegas in April.
We will all develop and hone the skills required to be Daniel Craig's body double (or treble after the buffets) for the next Bond film.
Rob in stag costume attempts car walk stunt
Phil told his suit won't get him entry to Pure - decides to end it all stuntman style!
Stuntman Gareth leaps across LV Boulevard for free buffet
Mike's being blinded out of tournament - has to get there stuntman quick!
Paul's stunt funding lost at roulette - Ducati swapped for Moped
Club Schedule
"Industry Night": Each club has what's known as an "industry night" one night per week. The other clubs remain closed and the designated industry club takes care of management and select hosts from the other clubs in Vegas. With only 2-3 clubs open, its most often busier on industry night than a weekend!
Highlights:
Thursday:
TAO - Venetian (Industry Night)
Tryst - Wynn (Industry Night) (Giant water fall comes down through the centre of the club)
Friday & Saturday:
The Joint - Hard Rock Hotel (DJ Tiesto in concert)
Haze - City Centre complex
Marquee - City Centre complex (newest - Ferry Corsten is DJing on the Saturday)
Moon - Palms (66th floor - sliding retractable roof over the whole club)
Ghost - Palms (64th floor - glass floored balcony)
Rain - Palms (Basement, Flame throwing rig above the dance floor)
Voodoo - Rio (Top floor - outdoor part is the best view in Vegas)
Jet - Mirage
Lavo - Palazzo
Eve - City Centre complex
PURE - Ceasar's Palace (Industry Night) Balcony right out over the strip
LAX - Luxor
Surrender - Encore
Sunday:
Vanity - Hard Rock Hotel (Industry Night)
Bank - Bellagio (A bit pretentious from what I remember)
Monday:
XS - Encore (Industry Night)
Tuesday:
PURE - Ceasar's Palace (Industry Night) Balcony right out over the strip
Highlights:
Thursday:
TAO - Venetian (Industry Night)
Tryst - Wynn (Industry Night) (Giant water fall comes down through the centre of the club)
Friday & Saturday:
The Joint - Hard Rock Hotel (DJ Tiesto in concert)
Haze - City Centre complex
Marquee - City Centre complex (newest - Ferry Corsten is DJing on the Saturday)
Moon - Palms (66th floor - sliding retractable roof over the whole club)
Ghost - Palms (64th floor - glass floored balcony)
Rain - Palms (Basement, Flame throwing rig above the dance floor)
Voodoo - Rio (Top floor - outdoor part is the best view in Vegas)
Jet - Mirage
Lavo - Palazzo
Eve - City Centre complex
PURE - Ceasar's Palace (Industry Night) Balcony right out over the strip
LAX - Luxor
Surrender - Encore
Sunday:
Vanity - Hard Rock Hotel (Industry Night)
Bank - Bellagio (A bit pretentious from what I remember)
Monday:
XS - Encore (Industry Night)
Tuesday:
PURE - Ceasar's Palace (Industry Night) Balcony right out over the strip
Tuesday, 1 March 2011
Finally…. Hotels are all booked
Ok guys all the accommodation is booked.
So this is the plan..
Wed, Thur, Friday night (checkout Sat) - We are in the MGM Grand
- Two Queen Beds per room
- Two Free Buffet vouchers per room
The resort fee gives us
- $15 drinks credit per room
- Free internet access (not sure if this is wireless, and only available in the room vicinity)
Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues night checkout Wed - We are in Aria
- Two Queen Beds per room
- City Centre View
- Breakfast buffet access (Mon Tue & Wed mornings)
The resort fee gives us
- Campus wide wireless internet
- Two welcome cocktails
- Gym access
Once the final MGM deposit has hit my card I will send the details of what you owe me so far.
Still to pay are the resort fees and remainder of the mgm room costs (plus any room changes)
The Zombie Package
Does anyone fancy a trip to the gun store…
www.thegunstorelasvegas.com/
Just checking out the gun rental packages and they have a couple of new ones available.
www.thegunstorelasvegas.com/
Just checking out the gun rental packages and they have a couple of new ones available.
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