Riviera Info

Jeff Wagg · 3rd November 2006, 01:27 PM

Hello,

I've put together a little slideshow of my recent trip to The Riviera.

TAM is going to be blast this year. The convention center is more modern than the one the Stardust has, and is bigger and more flexible. Also, even though it's only across the street, the location is much better than the Stardust. The Hilton (Star Trek), Peppermill, Wynn, Circus Circus, Stratosphere, and New Frontier (why?) are all an easy walk. The Indoor Skydiving is right behind Ross Dress for Less which is right next to the Peppermill. It's also a very easy place to get to from the Airport. Cheap cab ride, easy drive, and lots of inexpensive shuttle services available.

1) There is NO hospitality suite this year. That was a free room the Stardust gave us for the forum party. So this year, Skepchicks Ltd. will be hosting the party this year, and will be releasing more details later. I'm going to put up an Official Unofficial Events schedule on www.amazingmeeting.com so everyone can keep track this year.

2) Coffee. There are many options for coffee, but there's nothing like Starbucks. We tried room service and all the restaurants and the coffee was consistently weak. If you demand Starbucks every morning, bring your own. (No coffee makers in the room, either.)

3) There is decent WiFi in the rooms, and it's $9.95 a day.. much cheaper than at the Stardust, and it works much better. (It's called Golden Tree for some reason.) However.. it does NOT work in the convention center. There are Internet kiosks and laptop docking stations right outside the conference room, however.

4) The magic shop is fun. Better than Houdini's. I asked them to give us a deal of some sort.. still waiting on that. Lots of other shops too, including two liquor stores, a toy store, and some funky gift shops.

5) There is easy access to the convention center without dealing with the casino. Come down Paradise Road and turn into the Riviera entrace that's across from the Hilton. There's valet and a garage right there. It's an easy hotel to get in and out of, including getting to the airport.

6) Rooms. Folks, the TAM rate at the Riviera is $89 a night. That's for the nicer rooms in the towers attached to the convention center. Don't pass this deal up. Rates are WAY up in Vegas, and these rooms go for well over $100 that week. The room I was in was very spacious and clean. Tell them you're with "The Amazing Meeting." If you get rooms at The Riviera elsewhere, you won't be with the rest of the group.

7) Restaurants. LOTS of choices. The coffee shop (Kady's) is better than the Stardust. Faster service, better food. It's not cheap though.. expect $10 per person. And it's very brightly colored. The buffet was much larger than the Stardusts and better quality. Nothing special. There's a mall-style food court too, as well as a well-rated Italian restaurant and a steak house that was reasonably priced (for a steak house). And of course.. there's the Peppermill. Room service was fairly affordable. There's no decent bar to hang out at here. I find this very odd, but that's how it is. I suggest we walk one block to the Peppermill and take it over.

8) The poker room is right in the middle of the casino and easy to find. Not very smokey, either.

9) Splash is closed. That's the big show at The Riviera. A new show called Versailles is coming. Suggestion.. walk across the street to the Hilton for Star Trek Experience.

10) The convention center is.. HUGE! This year, we'll have more space, and we won't have to walk over to another building for lunch. We have a lot more flexibilty with the space, so it should be less crowded. And the Riviera's A/V department gets very good ratings...so hopefully that's the end of our sound problems.

SpeederA · 3rd November 2006, 01:35 PM

Link does not work.... Ooh, and I will be in touch with you this weekend.

TobiasTheViking · 3rd November 2006, 01:39 PM

sounds great.. now if only they would actually charge me without demaind i send them pictures of the front and back of my credit card.

why isn't the information i entered enough for them to make the charge.

I know i know, it doesn't have to do with you, i'm just bitching.

Jeff Wagg · 3rd November 2006, 01:41 PM

Fixed the link. Capitalization problem.
r

R

CFLarsen · 3rd November 2006, 01:42 PM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

I'm going to put up an Official Unofficial Events schedule on www.amazingmeeting.com so everyone can keep track this year.

(cough)

The Official TAM5 Unofficial Activities List

Don't worry about it. I'll do it. Darat made the thread sticky.

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

I suggest we walk one block to the Peppermill and take it over.

That sounds like a good idea. Peppermill has become the de facto hangout for TAM'ers.

Everything sounds great, Jeff.

Brown · 3rd November 2006, 03:13 PM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

4) The magic shop is fun. Better than Houdini's. I asked them to give us a deal of some sort.. still waiting on that. Lots of other shops too, including two liquor stores, a toy store, and some funky gift shops.

Let me second this. I made a special point of visiting the magic shop during TAM4, and was glad that I did. Unfortunately, the store did not carry the particular item of interest to me, but the fellow behind the counter and I had a good chat, and we shared a couple of tricks. This was a completely different experience from that at Houdini's (or at Lance Burton's magic shop in the Monte Carlo), where the folks on duty seem to be more interested in selling by pushing than in selling by conversing. In other words, the Riviera shop (although arguably not nearly as good as other magic shops) caters more to those who see magic as a hobby rather than as an idle curiosity.

MLynn · 3rd November 2006, 05:21 PM

Jeff, great Riviera preview! I didn't realize that the Hilton was so close. Is the Starbucks within the Riviera or is there travelling involved?

Luciana · 3rd November 2006, 06:52 PM

Jeff, could you suggest a meeting point for forum folks near the convention center? Because if the place is huge indeed, and people get too scattered, there will be fewer opportunities to meet everybody.

But if we know beforehand where we should all gather (er, close to the telephone booths or next to the coffee shop, whatever, as long as it's close to the convention center and easy to find), just the act of hanging there will be enough to propitiate HUGS!

Claus suggested points "A" and "B", so let me suggest "Planet X", for starters.

xenxabar · 3rd November 2006, 09:02 PM

The lobby looks to be fairly large, but not necessarily a good place to hang out for long. For being one of the last remaining old school Vegas casinos, the Riviera does have some snazzy features on its web site. Jeff, you're right on with the bar situation. Nothing like the Stardust.

The closest Starbucks appears to be at the Fashion Show Mall (about 1 mile each way). Put on those walking shoes.

CFLarsen · 4th November 2006, 12:12 AM

Originally Posted by Luciana Nery

Claus suggested points "A" and "B", so let me suggest "Planet X", for starters.

OF COURSE! Brilliant!

Planet X, Planet Y, etc... All in the lobby/gathering area.

I'll fix it.

BrianSI · 4th November 2006, 12:27 AM

Thanks Jeff.

Can't wait.

slipknotmcfadden · 4th November 2006, 04:22 AM

Please refer to my avatar.

exarch · 4th November 2006, 10:36 AM

Kristofer's Steakhouse? I like it already ...

Also, that "Splash bar" looks very similar to the one we hung out at a couple of times in the Stardust.

xenxabar · 4th November 2006, 11:32 AM

Originally Posted by exarch

Also, that "Splash bar" looks very similar to the one we hung out at a couple of times in the Stardust.

It does when facing the bar. However, this bar is right by the gaming area and doesn't have extra tables and chairt. Looks like standard horseshoe style bar that many casinos have. Congregating around Splash may not be as easy as the Royal Flush bar.

Boo · 4th November 2006, 03:16 PM

Congregating at the Splash Bar is near impossible as it is just that...a bar with chairs. There is no room to gather around. Any of the other bars we looked at all had very small places for sitting but again very tight, groups of 10 would be hard pressed to find enough chairs and be comforable.

The coffee is not only weak it's flat out BAD. I'm bringing my own and a coffee maker. I don't know what the rules are at the Riv and I'll hide it in my luggage if I have to. Those of you that have met me can attest to my coffee addictiveness and need for decent coffee, I didn't finish a single cup while I was there, it was that bad.

The walking is easy, the temps are comfortable, the dress code reasonable and if you forget something or need to supplement your wardrobe you can do so very easily. For anyone that has difficulty getting around and wants to travel more then the block or two away from the Riv I noticed that the city buses tend to run frequently up and down the strip.

For anyone with dietary restrictions, i.e. you vegans, etc. it appeared that most resteraunts seemed set up and capable with providing at least one or two menu options. The buffet had no rhyme or reason to food grouping but the cold stuff was cold and the hot stuff was hot.

As a recent non smoker the air was bad and if you have allergies, bring your meds.

I'm planning on not sleeping for the 5 days I'm there.

Boo

Jeff Wagg · 4th November 2006, 07:31 PM

Starbucks.. none in sight, I'm afraid. Fashion Place Mall is HUGE and far away.

As for a meeting place.. that's difficult. There really is no hanging out spot.. except for the pool. The pool is in the middle of everything, and we could easily say "meet at the pool" and everyone would find it. It's right at the base of the elevators as well. There's nothing to do there though, it would only be a meeting place.

The best option, it seems to me, is to make The Peppermill the official hanging out after hours spot. It's a shorter walk (no street crossing) from the The Riv.

exarch · 5th November 2006, 08:28 AM

The only problem I've found with the Peppermill is that the dishes there are huge and expensive. In other words, half the dish at half the price would actually be great. I think I never once finished my plate completely, and I can usually move quite a bit of food.

And as a hangout. Well, the bar area is nice, but not suitable for groups that are too large (i.e. about a dozen people at most). If everyone starts hanging out there, they might not appreciate us taking up that much space.

The Central Scrutinizer · 5th November 2006, 08:41 AM

Originally Posted by exarch

The only problem I've found with the Peppermill is that the dishes there are huge and expensive. In other words, half the dish at half the price would actually be great. I think I never once finished my plate completely, and I can usually move quite a bit of food.

And as a hangout. Well, the bar area is nice, but not suitable for groups that are too large (i.e. about a dozen people at most). If everyone starts hanging out there, they might not appreciate us taking up that much space.

I would agree with every thing you said. I've never understood the attraction of the Peppermill, other than the adjacent location. You get way to big portions of ok food (no wonder Americans are so fat), and the whole design of the place kind of creeps me out. It's really not a good spot to socialize.

supercorgi · 5th November 2006, 03:52 PM

Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer

I would agree with every thing you said. I've never understood the attraction of the Peppermill, other than the adjacent location. You get way to big portions of ok food (no wonder Americans are so fat), and the whole design of the place kind of creeps me out. It's really not a good spot to socialize.

I found out the secret of the Peppermill last year. Make sure you have a refrigerator in your room. Order a sandwich or something you can eat cold. Get a doggie bag for half of it. Eat the rest at 4:00 in the morning when you're drunk and you need something in your stomach to absorb the alcohol.

xenxabar · 5th November 2006, 08:18 PM

The Las Vegas Hilton might be a good place to hang out. They have the Star Trek themed bar. Who wants a Romulan Ale?

Jas · 6th November 2006, 12:11 AM

Originally Posted by Boo

The coffee is not only weak it's flat out BAD. I'm bringing my own and a coffee maker. I don't know what the rules are at the Riv and I'll hide it in my luggage if I have to. Those of you that have met me can attest to my coffee addictiveness and need for decent coffee, I didn't finish a single cup while I was there, it was that bad.

Oh dear

I made the mistake last year of not bringing my own coffee maker. None in the rooms, and the room service charged you $8 for something that might better be described as sock juice

I think I'm popping a bodum, coffee, and some form of thing to make water hot, into my suitcase.

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 04:44 AM

Originally Posted by xenxabar

The Las Vegas Hilton might be a good place to hang out. They have the Star Trek themed bar. Who wants a Romulan Ale?

I'll pass.

And given that I've actually kissed a girl, I don't think they would let me in.

CFLarsen · 6th November 2006, 04:46 AM

Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer

I'll pass.

And given that I've actually kissed a girl

I didn't know you had a sister.

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 04:46 AM

Originally Posted by Jas

Oh dear

I made the mistake last year of not bringing my own coffee maker. None in the rooms, and the room service charged you $8 for something that might better be described as sock juice

I think I'm popping a bodum, coffee, and some form of thing to make water hot, into my suitcase.

Has anyone who is thinking about actually bringing their own coffee maker ever stopped to think how sad that is?

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 04:47 AM

Originally Posted by CFLarsen

I didn't know you had a sister.

Actually, it was your sister.

CFLarsen · 6th November 2006, 05:05 AM

Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer

Actually, it was your sister.

You have not seen my sister.

kittynh · 6th November 2006, 06:32 AM

why do I love this forum!

it's better than anything on tv!

"take my sister, please!"

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 07:34 AM

Originally Posted by CFLarsen

You have not seen my sister.

I was drunk.

CFLarsen · 6th November 2006, 08:55 AM

Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer

I was drunk.

How can we tell the difference?

Jeff Wagg · 6th November 2006, 09:49 AM

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

Zygar · 6th November 2006, 09:52 AM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

Standing in the middle of the road with a bottle of tequila in one hand and a lime in the other.

CFLarsen · 6th November 2006, 09:53 AM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

....your room?

Well, you asked!!

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 10:34 AM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

I can't recommend anything, because I'm not familiar enough with Vegas.

I wouldn't worry to much about it. Someone will find a place. I suspect that the Riveria Bar will end up being the gathering spot.

TJ · 6th November 2006, 05:15 PM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

That Bistro Bar looks nice and big. There weren't any big bars at the Stardust either, just restaurants.

Jeff Wagg · 6th November 2006, 08:46 PM

There's the Bistro Bar and the Bistro Lounge. The lounge has acts in it. The bar is quite small, and it was PACKED when I saw it.

But.. it might be the best option.

The Central Scrutinizer · 6th November 2006, 08:53 PM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

There's the Bistro Bar and the Bistro Lounge. The lounge has acts in it. The bar is quite small, and it was PACKED when I saw it.

But.. it might be the best option.

We'll just have to chase them out! A few loud conversations about how stupid gamblers and christians are should do the trick.

xenxabar · 6th November 2006, 09:18 PM

Originally Posted by TJ Stough

That Bistro Bar looks nice and big. There weren't any big bars at the Stardust either, just restaurants.

From the looks of it, Le Bistro is a lounge, but unfortunately it is a theatre. If you look at the 360 degree virtual tour, you'll see that it is an enclosed venue.

Quote:

Located in the middle of the casino floor, the Le Bistro Theatre provides guests with a fun atmosphere where they can sit down for a drink and catch nightly performances by top entertainers.

As for another suggestion, I still maintain that the Las Vegas Hilton may be a decent option, and no it doesn't have to be the SpaceQuest bar. They have nine bars/lounges including the pool (which will probably not be open in January). The next closest casino North is the Sahara, which as I recall only has a horseshoe bar. The Sahara is also a smaller older casino. Traveling South is the Wynn, which has excellent drinks. However, if you order them from a bar don't be surprised if the round of drinks you order for the four people you're with costs more than $40. Just NorthWest of Wynn is the New Frontier, which just isn't the same without the picketers. Then further South is TI. They have a flair bar, but it is not ideal for conversation unless you love to scream. However, I do recall they have excellent uses for pipe cleaners, just make sure to hide them from the maids.

xenxabar · 6th November 2006, 09:22 PM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

There's the Bistro Bar and the Bistro Lounge. The lounge has acts in it. The bar is quite small, and it was PACKED when I saw it.

But.. it might be the best option.

Oh, so it is an accessible lounge when the performances aren't happening? The virtual tour was a bit misleading if that is the case.

Jeff Wagg · 6th November 2006, 09:24 PM

Yes, it looked like you could go sit in there, and then there's a horseshoe style bar with maybe 5 2-person tables right outside.

exarch · 7th November 2006, 04:31 AM

Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg

OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one.

So far, we have:

No to Riviera bars.

No to Peppermill.

No to Quarks.

Which leaves us with.... ???

I actually think Quark's would be funny as a hangout. Except the Romulan ale isn't really all that special, or good. If people are bringing their own coffee, I might be forced to bring my own beer

I suppose the big question is: how far "across the street" is the Hilton from the Riviera? Is it a reasonable place to go to in order to hang out? And not just Quark's, but maybe other venues inside the Hilton complex?

3rd November 2006, 01:27 PM	#1
Jeff Wagg Communications and Outreach Coordinator JREF Staff Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,887	Riviera Info Hello, I've put together a little slideshow of my recent trip to The Riviera. TAM is going to be blast this year. The convention center is more modern than the one the Stardust has, and is bigger and more flexible. Also, even though it's only across the street, the location is much better than the Stardust. The Hilton (Star Trek), Peppermill, Wynn, Circus Circus, Stratosphere, and New Frontier (why?) are all an easy walk. The Indoor Skydiving is right behind Ross Dress for Less which is right next to the Peppermill. It's also a very easy place to get to from the Airport. Cheap cab ride, easy drive, and lots of inexpensive shuttle services available. 1) There is NO hospitality suite this year. That was a free room the Stardust gave us for the forum party. So this year, Skepchicks Ltd. will be hosting the party this year, and will be releasing more details later. I'm going to put up an Official Unofficial Events schedule on www.amazingmeeting.com so everyone can keep track this year. 2) Coffee. There are many options for coffee, but there's nothing like Starbucks. We tried room service and all the restaurants and the coffee was consistently weak. If you demand Starbucks every morning, bring your own. (No coffee makers in the room, either.) 3) There is decent WiFi in the rooms, and it's $9.95 a day.. much cheaper than at the Stardust, and it works much better. (It's called Golden Tree for some reason.) However.. it does NOT work in the convention center. There are Internet kiosks and laptop docking stations right outside the conference room, however. 4) The magic shop is fun. Better than Houdini's. I asked them to give us a deal of some sort.. still waiting on that. Lots of other shops too, including two liquor stores, a toy store, and some funky gift shops. 5) There is easy access to the convention center without dealing with the casino. Come down Paradise Road and turn into the Riviera entrace that's across from the Hilton. There's valet and a garage right there. It's an easy hotel to get in and out of, including getting to the airport. 6) Rooms. Folks, the TAM rate at the Riviera is $89 a night. That's for the nicer rooms in the towers attached to the convention center. Don't pass this deal up. Rates are WAY up in Vegas, and these rooms go for well over $100 that week. The room I was in was very spacious and clean. Tell them you're with "The Amazing Meeting." If you get rooms at The Riviera elsewhere, you won't be with the rest of the group. 7) Restaurants. LOTS of choices. The coffee shop (Kady's) is better than the Stardust. Faster service, better food. It's not cheap though.. expect $10 per person. And it's very brightly colored. The buffet was much larger than the Stardusts and better quality. Nothing special. There's a mall-style food court too, as well as a well-rated Italian restaurant and a steak house that was reasonably priced (for a steak house). And of course.. there's the Peppermill. Room service was fairly affordable. There's no decent bar to hang out at here. I find this very odd, but that's how it is. I suggest we walk one block to the Peppermill and take it over. 8) The poker room is right in the middle of the casino and easy to find. Not very smokey, either. 9) Splash is closed. That's the big show at The Riviera. A new show called Versailles is coming. Suggestion.. walk across the street to the Hilton for Star Trek Experience. 10) The convention center is.. HUGE! This year, we'll have more space, and we won't have to walk over to another building for lunch. We have a lot more flexibilty with the space, so it should be less crowded. And the Riviera's A/V department gets very good ratings...so hopefully that's the end of our sound problems.
	Last edited by Jeff Wagg; 3rd November 2006 at 01:39 PM.

3rd November 2006, 01:35 PM	#2
SpeederA Critical Thinker Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: NYC Posts: 258	Link does not work.... Ooh, and I will be in touch with you this weekend.
	__________________ Every sect as far as reason will help them, gladly use it; when it fails them, they cry out it is a matter of faith, and beyond reason. -John Locke

3rd November 2006, 01:39 PM	#3
TobiasTheViking Resident Viking Autist Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: With your mother Posts: 6,571	sounds great.. now if only they would actually charge me without demaind i send them pictures of the front and back of my credit card. why isn't the information i entered enough for them to make the charge. I know i know, it doesn't have to do with you, i'm just bitching.
	__________________ Endearingly Obnoxious - Rebecca Watson

3rd November 2006, 01:42 PM	#5
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg I'm going to put up an Official Unofficial Events schedule on www.amazingmeeting.com so everyone can keep track this year. (cough) The Official TAM5 Unofficial Activities List Don't worry about it. I'll do it. Darat made the thread sticky. Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg I suggest we walk one block to the Peppermill and take it over. That sounds like a good idea. Peppermill has become the de facto hangout for TAM'ers. Everything sounds great, Jeff.
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

3rd November 2006, 03:13 PM	#6
Brown Philosopher Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Twin Cities, Canada Posts: 9,375	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg 4) The magic shop is fun. Better than Houdini's. I asked them to give us a deal of some sort.. still waiting on that. Lots of other shops too, including two liquor stores, a toy store, and some funky gift shops. Let me second this. I made a special point of visiting the magic shop during TAM4, and was glad that I did. Unfortunately, the store did not carry the particular item of interest to me, but the fellow behind the counter and I had a good chat, and we shared a couple of tricks. This was a completely different experience from that at Houdini's (or at Lance Burton's magic shop in the Monte Carlo), where the folks on duty seem to be more interested in selling by pushing than in selling by conversing. In other words, the Riviera shop (although arguably not nearly as good as other magic shops) caters more to those who see magic as a hobby rather than as an idle curiosity.
	__________________ Klaatu: I'm impatient with stupidity. My people have learned to live without it. Mr. Harley: I'm afraid my people haven't. I am very sorry. I wish it were otherwise. -- The Day The Earth Stood Still, screenplay by Edmund H. North "Don't you get me wrong. I only want to know." -- Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar, lyrics by Tim Rice

3rd November 2006, 01:41 PM	#4
Jeff Wagg Communications and Outreach Coordinator JREF Staff Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,887	Fixed the link. Capitalization problem. r R

3rd November 2006, 05:21 PM	#7
MLynn Whippet of Peace Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: USA Posts: 3,379	Jeff, great Riviera preview! I didn't realize that the Hilton was so close. Is the Starbucks within the Riviera or is there travelling involved?
	__________________ Mik - Obey the Whippet Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from a religious conviction. - Blaise Pascal MLynn, I've said it before: You're so nice, you couldn't get a rapper to call you a ho. - maddog

3rd November 2006, 06:52 PM	#8
Luciana Skeptical Carioca Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 10,108	Jeff, could you suggest a meeting point for forum folks near the convention center? Because if the place is huge indeed, and people get too scattered, there will be fewer opportunities to meet everybody. But if we know beforehand where we should all gather (er, close to the telephone booths or next to the coffee shop, whatever, as long as it's close to the convention center and easy to find), just the act of hanging there will be enough to propitiate HUGS! Claus suggested points "A" and "B", so let me suggest "Planet X", for starters.
	__________________ Regards, Luciana

3rd November 2006, 09:02 PM	#9
xenxabar bacon chocolate tacos Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 3,275	The lobby looks to be fairly large, but not necessarily a good place to hang out for long. For being one of the last remaining old school Vegas casinos, the Riviera does have some snazzy features on its web site. Jeff, you're right on with the bar situation. Nothing like the Stardust. The closest Starbucks appears to be at the Fashion Show Mall (about 1 mile each way). Put on those walking shoes.
	__________________ Please help: http://www.stopsylvia.com/ by helping its creator http://www.skepticsunite.com Folding it's not just for laundry anymore. "If I wanted to be book smart, I'd learn how to read." Last edited by xenxabar; 3rd November 2006 at 09:04 PM.

4th November 2006, 12:12 AM	#10
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by Luciana Nery Claus suggested points "A" and "B", so let me suggest "Planet X", for starters. OF COURSE! Brilliant! Planet X, Planet Y, etc... All in the lobby/gathering area. I'll fix it.
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

4th November 2006, 12:27 AM	#11
BrianSI A Rebarbative Cyst Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: on the Ass of Idiocy Posts: 1,431	Thanks Jeff. Can't wait.
	__________________ ~~In God we trust~~. Everyone ~~else~~ must bring data. "There's nothing wrong with science ... between air conditioning and the pope, I'll take air conditioning." -- Woody Allen in Deconstructing Harry

4th November 2006, 04:22 AM	#12
slipknotmcfadden Scholar Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Frederick, MD, USA Posts: 77	Please refer to my avatar.

4th November 2006, 10:36 AM	#13
exarch Anti-homeopathy illuminati member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Beyond redemption Posts: 7,179	Kristofer's Steakhouse? I like it already ... Also, that "Splash bar" looks very similar to the one we hung out at a couple of times in the Stardust.
	__________________ Naturalhealth: Helios are one of the largest homeopathic pharmacies in England. They have their reputation to consider, so it is just not worth their while doing anything that would destroy that. Rest assured, all their remedies are exactly what they say they are. There are also ways of testing the remedies too, so that you could distinguish them from just pure tap water. QAman: How can this be done? I presume you mean testing of the lower dilution remedies? Naturalhealth: No. This can be done for all remedies. __________________ Luciana is perhaps one of the sweetest people I've ever met. I will stand behind her till I drop dead. If you want to **** with her, you better understand you have to go through me first -- MoeFaux Last edited by exarch; 4th November 2006 at 10:39 AM.

4th November 2006, 11:32 AM	#14
xenxabar bacon chocolate tacos Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 3,275	Originally Posted by exarch Also, that "Splash bar" looks very similar to the one we hung out at a couple of times in the Stardust. It does when facing the bar. However, this bar is right by the gaming area and doesn't have extra tables and chairt. Looks like standard horseshoe style bar that many casinos have. Congregating around Splash may not be as easy as the Royal Flush bar.
	__________________ Please help: http://www.stopsylvia.com/ by helping its creator http://www.skepticsunite.com Folding it's not just for laundry anymore. "If I wanted to be book smart, I'd learn how to read."

4th November 2006, 03:16 PM	#15
Boo ts Join Date: May 2003 Location: state of chaos Posts: 3,737	Congregating at the Splash Bar is near impossible as it is just that...a bar with chairs. There is no room to gather around. Any of the other bars we looked at all had very small places for sitting but again very tight, groups of 10 would be hard pressed to find enough chairs and be comforable. The coffee is not only weak it's flat out BAD. I'm bringing my own and a coffee maker. I don't know what the rules are at the Riv and I'll hide it in my luggage if I have to. Those of you that have met me can attest to my coffee addictiveness and need for decent coffee, I didn't finish a single cup while I was there, it was that bad. The walking is easy, the temps are comfortable, the dress code reasonable and if you forget something or need to supplement your wardrobe you can do so very easily. For anyone that has difficulty getting around and wants to travel more then the block or two away from the Riv I noticed that the city buses tend to run frequently up and down the strip. For anyone with dietary restrictions, i.e. you vegans, etc. it appeared that most resteraunts seemed set up and capable with providing at least one or two menu options. The buffet had no rhyme or reason to food grouping but the cold stuff was cold and the hot stuff was hot. As a recent non smoker the air was bad and if you have allergies, bring your meds. I'm planning on not sleeping for the 5 days I'm there. Boo
	__________________ Wounds heal. Morally Obtuse. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.

4th November 2006, 07:31 PM	#16
Jeff Wagg Communications and Outreach Coordinator JREF Staff Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,887	Starbucks.. none in sight, I'm afraid. Fashion Place Mall is HUGE and far away. As for a meeting place.. that's difficult. There really is no hanging out spot.. except for the pool. The pool is in the middle of everything, and we could easily say "meet at the pool" and everyone would find it. It's right at the base of the elevators as well. There's nothing to do there though, it would only be a meeting place. The best option, it seems to me, is to make The Peppermill the official hanging out after hours spot. It's a shorter walk (no street crossing) from the The Riv.

5th November 2006, 08:28 AM	#17
exarch Anti-homeopathy illuminati member Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Beyond redemption Posts: 7,179	The only problem I've found with the Peppermill is that the dishes there are huge and expensive. In other words, half the dish at half the price would actually be great. I think I never once finished my plate completely, and I can usually move quite a bit of food. And as a hangout. Well, the bar area is nice, but not suitable for groups that are too large (i.e. about a dozen people at most). If everyone starts hanging out there, they might not appreciate us taking up that much space.
	__________________ Naturalhealth: Helios are one of the largest homeopathic pharmacies in England. They have their reputation to consider, so it is just not worth their while doing anything that would destroy that. Rest assured, all their remedies are exactly what they say they are. There are also ways of testing the remedies too, so that you could distinguish them from just pure tap water. QAman: How can this be done? I presume you mean testing of the lower dilution remedies? Naturalhealth: No. This can be done for all remedies. __________________ Luciana is perhaps one of the sweetest people I've ever met. I will stand behind her till I drop dead. If you want to **** with her, you better understand you have to go through me first -- MoeFaux

5th November 2006, 08:41 AM	#18
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by exarch The only problem I've found with the Peppermill is that the dishes there are huge and expensive. In other words, half the dish at half the price would actually be great. I think I never once finished my plate completely, and I can usually move quite a bit of food. And as a hangout. Well, the bar area is nice, but not suitable for groups that are too large (i.e. about a dozen people at most). If everyone starts hanging out there, they might not appreciate us taking up that much space. I would agree with every thing you said. I've never understood the attraction of the Peppermill, other than the adjacent location. You get way to big portions of ok food (no wonder Americans are so fat), and the whole design of the place kind of creeps me out. It's really not a good spot to socialize.
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com Last edited by The Central Scrutinizer; 5th November 2006 at 08:46 AM.

5th November 2006, 03:52 PM	#19
supercorgi Dog Everlasting Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: State of Confusion, Massachusetts, USA Posts: 2,503	Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer I would agree with every thing you said. I've never understood the attraction of the Peppermill, other than the adjacent location. You get way to big portions of ok food (no wonder Americans are so fat), and the whole design of the place kind of creeps me out. It's really not a good spot to socialize. I found out the secret of the Peppermill last year. Make sure you have a refrigerator in your room. Order a sandwich or something you can eat cold. Get a doggie bag for half of it. Eat the rest at 4:00 in the morning when you're drunk and you need something in your stomach to absorb the alcohol.
	__________________

5th November 2006, 08:18 PM	#20
xenxabar bacon chocolate tacos Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 3,275	The Las Vegas Hilton might be a good place to hang out. They have the Star Trek themed bar. Who wants a Romulan Ale?
	__________________ Please help: http://www.stopsylvia.com/ by helping its creator http://www.skepticsunite.com Folding it's not just for laundry anymore. "If I wanted to be book smart, I'd learn how to read."

6th November 2006, 12:11 AM	#21
Jas Queen Skankarella of Ho Nation Join Date: Jan 2004 Posts: 3,820	Originally Posted by Boo The coffee is not only weak it's flat out BAD. I'm bringing my own and a coffee maker. I don't know what the rules are at the Riv and I'll hide it in my luggage if I have to. Those of you that have met me can attest to my coffee addictiveness and need for decent coffee, I didn't finish a single cup while I was there, it was that bad. Oh dear I made the mistake last year of not bringing my own coffee maker. None in the rooms, and the room service charged you $8 for something that might better be described as sock juice I think I'm popping a bodum, coffee, and some form of thing to make water hot, into my suitcase.
	__________________ "Ah, there's nothing more exciting than science! You get all the fun of sitting still, being quiet, writing down numbers, paying attention... Science has it all!" Lest We Forget

6th November 2006, 04:44 AM	#22
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by xenxabar The Las Vegas Hilton might be a good place to hang out. They have the Star Trek themed bar. Who wants a Romulan Ale? I'll pass. And given that I've actually kissed a girl, I don't think they would let me in.
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com

6th November 2006, 04:46 AM	#23
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer I'll pass. And given that I've actually kissed a girl I didn't know you had a sister.
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

6th November 2006, 04:46 AM	#24
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by Jas Oh dear I made the mistake last year of not bringing my own coffee maker. None in the rooms, and the room service charged you $8 for something that might better be described as sock juice I think I'm popping a bodum, coffee, and some form of thing to make water hot, into my suitcase. Has anyone who is thinking about actually bringing their own coffee maker ever stopped to think how sad that is?
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com

6th November 2006, 04:47 AM	#25
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by CFLarsen I didn't know you had a sister. Actually, it was your sister.
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com

6th November 2006, 05:05 AM	#26
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer Actually, it was your sister. You have not seen my sister.
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

6th November 2006, 06:32 AM	#27
kittynh The Hupsu Detective auctioneer Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: If I told the aliens could find me, and you know they read this forum Posts: 21,290	why do I love this forum! it's better than anything on tv! "take my sister, please!"
	__________________ 'The observer never sees the pure phenomenon with his own eyes;rather, much depends on his mood, the state of his senses, the light, the air, the weather, the physical object, how it is handled, and a thousand other circumstances" Goethe (1810) "A theory only helps investigation: it cannot invent or discover" Coleridge WWW.BADALIEN.ORG - not all the buttons work yet, and the science content is coming...but it's ALIVE!

6th November 2006, 07:34 AM	#28
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by CFLarsen You have not seen my sister. I was drunk.
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com

6th November 2006, 08:55 AM	#29
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by The Central Scrutinizer I was drunk. How can we tell the difference?
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

6th November 2006, 09:49 AM	#30
Jeff Wagg Communications and Outreach Coordinator JREF Staff Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,887	OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one. So far, we have: No to Riviera bars. No to Peppermill. No to Quarks. Which leaves us with.... ???

6th November 2006, 09:52 AM	#31
Zygar Lex Luthor's Evil Twin Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Salt Lake City Posts: 2,593	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one. So far, we have: No to Riviera bars. No to Peppermill. No to Quarks. Which leaves us with.... ??? Standing in the middle of the road with a bottle of tequila in one hand and a lime in the other.

6th November 2006, 09:53 AM	#32
CFLarsen Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Aug 2001 Posts: 42,804	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one. So far, we have: No to Riviera bars. No to Peppermill. No to Quarks. Which leaves us with.... ??? ....your room? Well, you asked!!
	__________________ SkepticReport.com

6th November 2006, 10:34 AM	#33
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 25,289	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one. So far, we have: No to Riviera bars. No to Peppermill. No to Quarks. Which leaves us with.... ??? I can't recommend anything, because I'm not familiar enough with Vegas. I wouldn't worry to much about it. Someone will find a place. I suspect that the Riveria Bar will end up being the gathering spot.
	__________________ "I got to play with (Michael Goudeau's balls) briefly, and they are primo quality. Heavy, soft, and pliant." - Jeff Wagg "You are always so helpful, rational, and polite." - SaulOhio http://www.stopsylvia.com

6th November 2006, 05:15 PM	#34
TJ Amateur Rhythmatist Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Denver, Co Posts: 2,331	Originally Posted by Jeff Wagg OK new rule.. you can't poo poo an idea without having a new one. So far, we have: No to Riviera bars. No to Peppermill. No to Quarks. Which leaves us with.... ??? That Bistro Bar looks nice and big. There weren't any big bars at the Stardust either, just restaurants.
	__________________ In most of the states of this union, I could not give testimony. Christianity has such a contemptable opinion of human nature that it does not believe that a man can tell the truth unless frightened by a belief in God. - Ingersoll My Blog

6th November 2006, 08:46 PM	#35
Jeff Wagg Communications and Outreach Coordinator JREF Staff Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Vermont Posts: 2,887	There's the Bistro Bar and the Bistro Lounge. The lounge has acts in it. The bar is quite small, and it was PACKED when I saw it. But.. it might be the best option.