City Center Las Vegas Continues to be Plagued by Problems

According to MGM Grand's third quarter financial filing report, the Harmon Hotel in City Center will likely never open. The last building to be opened in the massive project, the property was originally designed to be a boutique non gaming facility in the heart of City Center. Unfortunately, in 2008 MGM Grand was ordered by inspectors to reduce the size and scope of the project due to structural and construction problems. MGM Grand went ahead with construction plans to open the hotel as a 400 room property, but after recording a $279 million fine due to the problems it now seems to be a far-fetched idea the hotel will even see a customer before 2012. Discussions have now centered on if the current building can even continue to be utilized or if it will benefit MGM Grand to consider demolishing and starting over....an idea that many believe MGM's financial woes can't handle.

Las Vegas and Spiritual Tourism?

Like most people, I rarely like to admit my faults but I must confess I am immensely behind in reading my plethora of travel industry publications. Seriously, as much as I love the industry you would think I would devour each one as soon as it arrived on my doorstep. Unfortunately, not so much and I'm blaming the holidays.

So I just finished Travel Weekly dated November 9, 2009 and there was a very interesting article urging Las Vegas to consider the financial impact of catering to the spiritual tourism market. Hmmm, I must say that's an interesting proposition.

Given the economic conditions of 2009, I understand that industries will try anything to make money. But honestly, I can't exactly see my grandmother's church group hitting Sin City. I'm almost positive that her church friends are probably praying for all the sins of those of us that hit that town on a regular basis.

Loving Southwest

Before you ask, yes I am touting my new found love interest: Southwest Airlines. I had the pleasure of flying Southwest from Denver to Vegas roundtrip this week for an industry grand opening event at City Center. My entire experience was terrific from curbside checkin to the gate agents, flight attendents and the pilot's continual updates on the Chargers playoff game, I couldn't have asked for more. Not to mention, its free to check your bags and there is no change fee. Granted I do still hate the cattle call lineup prior to boarding as well as the panic attack that strikes because I forgot to check in 24 hours prior to departure...please don't let me be in group C. But honestly, all can be forgiven after yesterday. The standard Southwest plane holds 133 passengers. Yesterday we had 148 passengers trying to get on the flight from Vegas to Denver. I'm guessing everyone did as bad at the tables as I did and were all trying to make a fast dash away from Sin City. But the gate agent handled it with calm and ease, offering a free roundtrip ticket, a $100 voucher and the reimbursement of your oneway ticket to Denver. And he even the mad dash to his counter didn't rattle him.

Las Vegas and San Fran Report Visitor Increase

In hopefully what is a good economic sign and a turnaround for the travel industry, the Las Vegas CVA announced for the first time since May 2008 the city saw an increase in the number of visitors for September. San Francisco also announced an increase in hotel occupancy rates although the average cost per room is still lower than normal.

Fountainbleu Las Vegas Cancels Meetings

The famed Foutainbleu chain seems to be suffering a bit in Las Vegas. They have been in bankruptcy even before opening but professed to many meeting planners during the Incentive Travel Exchange that things would be normal soon. Apparently, not so much. Just yesterday, Travel Weekly posted an article stating that Foutainbleu has ceased construction activities and requested to cancel conventions and meetings that were booked through June 2010. In addition, current employment contracts were also requested to be cancelled. Spokesperson for the property said it fully plans to be opening by 2010 just the timing will depend on renewal of financing options.

It is a beautiful property and a great addition to the resorts along the strip. Hopefully things will work for them as it did for MGM's City Center.

Dining in the Sky Las Vegas Style

Dinner in the Sky is a new venue that offers guests the opportunity to literally dine in the sky above Las Vegas. No, its not the newest theme park thrill ride to be introduced in Vegas, but a concept to give small groups or individual guests a very different take on dining out. Each meal consists of a 22 person Sky Table while suspending the guest over 160 feet in the air. Reservations are requested and prices begin at $249 a person that includes a reception, photography, access to the Sky Lounge and packages are available Thursday through Sunday. For transfers between your hotel and Dinner in the Sky add an extra $20.00 per person to the price.

Vegas Uncork'd

Vegas Uncork'd is Las Vegas' premiere culinary event sponsored by bon appetit, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Southern Wine and Spirits, Wynn, Bellagio and others. It showcases delightful cooking experiences, wine tastings, grand culinary tastings, dinners, and much more. Famous chefs that will dot the event with exclusive appearances include Chef Michael Mina, Chef Daniel Boulud, Chef Todd English and Chef Bobby Flay. Tickets are on sale now. Check out www.vegasuncorked.com