Jackpot: Las Vegas McCarran International Airport has free WiFi (if you can pull yourself away from the slots).
By Mark Chesnut
You’ve got a layover that’s just long enough to check e-mail on something larger than your cell phone, but you have no VIP club membership handy and you don’t feel like paying as much as $20 to access Wi-Fi for just an hour or two. What to do? (more…)
Screen time: Minneapolis will be added to the TSA's pre-screening initiative this year.
By Mark Chesnut
In today’s ever-changing world of air travel, the experience you have during security screening is likely to depend on the airport you’re moving through. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced new test and pilot programs at some airports, bringing changes — and potential new options — for frequent flyers. Here is a sample of what to expect this year. (more…)
Couples say their vows, and their prayers, before riding the Big Shot at the Stratosphere Hotel. Credit: Cashman Photo.
By Amy Drew Thompson
It’s 2012, young lovers, and Valentine’s Day is around the corner. Thinking about popping the question? Not only are scads of Las Vegas hotels primed to host your dream wedding – whether that means formal elegance or ushers dressed like Stormtroopers – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will even let you “try” marriage risk-free. But more on that later…
Night lights: Fremont Street in Las Vegas will be packed with revelers on New Year's Eve.
By Mark Chesnut
For many people, the days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve can be especially slow at work; indeed, some offices and businesses close entirely. So say goodbye to that pile of work and make the most of the season with family and friends. (more…)
Cover at XS is $30 for gentlemen and $20 for ladies, but tables like this command a princely sum. Credit: Barbara Kraft.
By Amy Drew Thompson
Sure, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas …unless you’re a member of the British Royal Family, in which case the world is sure to find out. Take Prince Harry’s recent break from military training in Arizona. After a relaxing desert cruise on a rented Harley-Davidson, the future king’s brother cut loose in style, giving us a stellar model on how to vacation like royalty in some fabulous Las Vegas hotels.
Canal plus: The Venetian is hosting holiday entertainment this year. Photo: Samoano.
By Mark Chesnut
Sure, your next trip to so-called Sin City might be for business, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make it feel a bit like a Las Vegas vacation — especially at this time of year, when this desert hotspot heats up even more for the holidays. (more…)
Art at the airport: Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta.
By Mark Chesnut
Long layovers and delayed flights don’t have to mean hours of boredom. Increasingly, airports large and small are using public space to exhibit original artwork and historical displays. So rather than stopping at yet another Cinnabon, consider checking out some of the latest exhibits. (more…)
Thanksgiving in Paris: Eiffel Tower is one of many hotel restos dishing up a holiday feast. Credit: http2007.
By Jennifer Olvera
Vegas: It’s a happening place year-round. Come Thanksgiving, though, Las Vegas vacations feel downright celebratory. Given the feast will arrive – in all its gut-busting glory – before you bat an eye, you should probably start planning, pronto. Whether you choose to gamble the weekend away or hit a few shows, there’s one thing you can count on Thanksgiving weekend: the bird is the word. (more…)
Shrimp Bar & Deli at Golden Gate Hotel and Casino has served its $1.99 shrimp cocktail for decades.
By Jennifer Olvera
The Strip – with its around-the-clock action and trace of flashing lights – has the glitz and glamour thing down pat. When planning Las Vegas vacations, however, it’s wise to look beyond the main drag and explore what’s tried and true. Remnants of old Las Vegas, are tucked into time-honored spots or have been resurrected as an homage to days gone by. (more…)
That's the spirit: Florida-based Spirit Airlines is in growth mode.
By Mark Chesnut
Low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines is introducing new service on a number of popular business travel routes — which may also be of interest to anyone shopping for a Las Vegas vacation or a Chicago vacation.
Among the airline’s fastest-growing destinations is Chicago; in August, the company launched new nonstop flights linking O’Hare airport to Boston, Dallas and New York LaGuardia, and also increased service to Detroit. On Nov. 10, new nonstop flights will begin between Chicago O’Hare and Orlando. (more…)
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