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December 21, 2005
Packing Necessities for Vegas
(I had to double-check to see if that's how 'necessities' is really spelt... It just does not look correct.)
If you're planning to go to Vegas, the first thing you need to bring are sunglasses. Las Vegas is constantly sunny, and a pair of shades are the perfect expression of cool --or the perfect way to hide the fact that you've lost all your cash and you are now crying near the penny slots.
Bring proper clothes! Regardless of what you've seen in the movies and on television, not everyone is lounging around in suits and stilettos. Know that you can smoke everywhere in Las Vegas: your clothes, your hair, and everything you bring will have a smoke stench. Also, feel free to bring an amazing outfit as well --just incase you do want to go to that five-star restaurant or have ever considering clubbing in the Ghost Bar on top of the Palms (famous from the Real World).
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Whatever you choose to wear, and regardless of the weather, do not forget comfortable walking shoes. Yes, I am a "flip flop wearin' no umbrella holdin' jeans wearin' in the rain properly pronouncing Oregonian" --but, in this case, flip flips are not proper walking shoes.
Last but not least, bring cash you can afford to lose. I strongly believe that no one should be going to the atms daily to take out cash to gamble. You will not find your bank near the strip, so you will undoubtably be paying fees to use the atms found inside the casinos. Also, Las Vegas thrives on tourism, and gratuities is a must. Bring dollars to tip, and tip often. People are serving you, and they shouldn't suffer just because you don't have a grasp on your cash.
Tips on Tipping
Restaurants - 15 to 20 percent of the total bill (including tax) is the general rule of thumb.
Hotel personnel - Generally tipped $1 to $2 per bag of luggage. If you use the concierge services, a $5 tip is appropriate.
Dealers and slot attendants - A small bet for the dealer is the usual method of tipping at the gaming tables. A tip also is appropriate for keno runners and slot attendants.
Showroom maitre d's - At shows, a tip of $5 to $20 will usually ensure desired seating. No tips are required at shows where there is assigned seating.
Taxicab drivers and tour guides - Taxi drivers usually receive $1 to $2 for a direct route; Tour guides receive $1 to $2 per person at the end of the trip.
Valet parking and maids - $2 to the car attendant is normal; $2 per day is a good tip for housekeeping.
I know that sometimes it may feel odd to tip so often if you're not used to it. Boyfriend and I constantly had to go through our wallets at quick speed to tip someone, so here's a tip: keep a few one dollar bills in your pocket or within quick reach. Have a money clip? Use it.
Posted by Stacy on December 21, 2005 11:04 PM | Filed In: Las Vegas
Comments
I am grateful that Australia doesn't have tipping traditions, it makes it much easier to understand. And, probably a fair bit cheaper too. Tipping is such a difficult thing to understand, on my part.
Posted by Baron at December 22, 2005 02:06 PM
Don't forget to pack prophylactics, Immodium, Cipro, and a disposable camera. Any good trip to Vegas usually requires one of the four. :)
Posted by Ian Ashley at December 22, 2005 03:41 PM
