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FRIENDLINESS
RATING: A
The staff is friendlier than most large Strip properties (from the front desk clerks to the floor cleaners), and are usually willing to accommodate guests and visitors alike. For instance, when we wanted to check out the buffet and the pool area, the employees smiled and graciously let us look around even though we were not registered guests at the hotel. Try doing that at the Mirage! ROOM RATING: A- You will find large, well-appointed rooms at the Monte Carlo with a padded headboard bed, a small European writing desk, and a marbled bathroom. The size of the bathroom is what holds MC back from getting a straight "A" and relegates it to an A- status: it is a tad on the small side, at least to my liking. The Monaco Jacuzzi Suites, however, are first-rate--but their decor is rather alarming and out of place. They are appointed in light gray/silver hues and look like something out of Caesar's Palace in Atlantic City. The Jacuzzi tub is the largest we've ever seen in Las Vegas (and is situated next to a large picture window). Everything in the room is remote controlled, from the window blinds to the cd player (complete with an in-room assortment of romantic cds -- if the clods that overnighted in the room before you didn't steal them). There is a large wet bar in the entryway with a nice set of bar tools and refrigerator. This is one nice suite! GAMBLING RATING: B Nice, new casino with nice, new games. Has mainly higher-limit tables during the weekends and high traffic times, but you can find some low-limit slots and tables. They also advertise single 0 roulette, but be sure to look for these special tables before placing your bets. The Monte Carlo’s slot club is disappointing; I have yet to see the “rewards” of being a member. ATMOSPHERE: C While the Monte Carlo’s theme must’ve looked good on paper, the casino just doesn’t have any “ummph.” It’s so/so...nothing impressive, unless you like to look at replicated fountains. The atmosphere, thankfully, is decidedly adult--a nice change of pace on the Strip. OTHER: Monte Carlo’s pool area is extremely overrated. Yes, they have a “lazy river,” but it’s only a few feet long, and there is NO landscaping--you just sit in your inner tube and watch the other sunburned tourists float by. And BEWARE: while I provide the casino’s internet address for convenience, do NOT book rooms online. EVERY TIME I have tried to get the “special Internet rate,” I’ve been later told by reservation agents that “those dates are not available,” with no straight answer as to the dates that ARE open. Sounds like a bit of a “hoax” to me. Also, claustrophobics may want to avoid booking a room at this hotel. The hallways here have VERY low ceilings and make you feel very, very boxed in. The tram to the Bellagio is efficient and offers lovely views of the Strip, particularly at night. WEB SITE: www.monte-carlo.com FOR RESERVATIONS OR INFORMATION: 1-702-730-7777
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