Las Vegas and Casino Basics for Travelers
With more and more people pouring into Vegas every year hotels, restaurants and other places are now offering much more for children. Rent a hotel room, for example, and kids under 12 usually stay for free. If the hotel offers a breakfast or lunch buffet, kids likely eat free as well. Some places have even gone very extravagant and now feature carnival rides, free gifts, complimentary babysitters and more.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or not there are some do’s and don’ts about staying in Las Vegas. For instance, you can’t use a cell phone while seated at a casino game. Nor can you bring a cell phone into the sports book section of the casinos.
If you’re a non-smoker you’ll want to look for casinos that offer a no-smoking section. In most casinos, smoking is still allowed, so you’ll have to make the extra effort to avoid smoke. Many restaurants have a specific section, but smoking is still permitted.
Excluding gambling and hotel expenses, allow a hundred dollars, per day, per two people while in Vegas. Of course, there are budget activities or expensive tourist attractions, so different people will spend different amounts, but on average, it costs between $700 and $1000 for two people, for a week.
Set a budget for gambling. It’s very easy to get addicted to the fun and excitement, but many people end up gambling away their travel expenses, food budget, and more. Decide on a certain amount to spend at the casinos, per day, then stop at that amount, no matter what.
Because of the nature of the casinos, security is tight, but you still need to watch your purse, buckets and chips. When outside of the casino use caution. Look around before inserting your key into your hotel door, don’t walk down dark streets alone, and keep little cash on you at all times.
Credit cards and debit cards are accepted at most businesses in Vegas. Some vendors even accept international cards like enRoute. ATM’s are practically on every corner. In addition, some check-cashing companies will cash checks – with proper ID and a handling fee.
Tipping is generally fifteen to twenty percent, but when tipping a baggage handler, one or two dollars for each bag is the norm. A five dollar tip for concierge services is average, two bucks each day for housekeeping, and a couple bucks for the parking valet. A small tip is appropriate for slot attendants and keno runners, where a small bet is sufficient for the dealer.
Although Vegas packs a crowd every night of the week, there are some days which are especially busy with travelers. New Year’s Day, Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Nevada Day (4th Friday in Oct.), Halloween, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas are very busy times in the casinos and Vegas in general.
If you’re planning on a Vegas wedding there’s no need for blood tests or waiting periods. The legal age is 18 and the fees for licenses are $55. Chapel fees vary from chapel to chapel, and civil ceremonies can be performed at the Marriage Commissioner’s Office on 3rd St.
It’s hot in Vegas, so pack accordingly. Try to limit the amount of electronic devices and valuables you bring with you, in case of theft. If you must bring valuables, ask the hotel to lock them up for you in their safe. They’re usually happy to accommodate you.
