Las Vegas Vacation Home Rental Blog

An Amazing Year Ahead For Las Vegas

2012-01-03T08:24:00.000-08:00

We've been feeling it for quite some time now. Months maybe. There is something in the air and it feels really good. It's that feeling that change is coming, and it's change we can all appreciate. Las Vegas, like the rest of the country and much of the world, has been under the pall of slow economy for several years now. And although our particular industry, FUN!, is never completely our of style. Still, nobody spends as much or feels as free to enjoy themselves when money is tight and good jobs are hard to come by.

Now with 2012 here, it seems as though the air is changing. Here and in other places too. Las Vegas just enjoyed one of its biggest New Years Eve celebrations ever. Caesars Palace had so many bookings that they opened their new tower months in advance to accommodate the guests. And not only is occupancy up, room rates are too. The crux of all this is that there has been a steady increase in visitors to Las Vegas over the last few months, and they are bringing along more money to spend.

This is a resilient town with a long history of good times and bad. Las Vegas is legendary as both a place of new beginnings and sad endings as well. Movies and novels have told the stories for years. Those of us who live here know all too well the cycles of life and the ebb and flow of our living. And now it looks like the flow is towards the positive again. We are all very excited to see what happens here in the next year. We are ready for it and we know you are too!

Happy New Year from Las Vegas Retreats. We hope 2012 will be your best year ever and we wish you great success and the best of luck in Las Vegas.
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The Guide to Family Friendly Las Vegas

2011-12-19T17:35:00.000-08:00

For many people coming to Las Vegas, there is the additional headache of what to do with the kids when you are here. Around the world, this is known as an adult Disneyland, not the one that was made for families. And yet over the years Las Vegas has worked to broaden its appeal to a wider market that includes families with children of all ages.

Since the original boom times of the 50's and 60's, Las Vegas has always been a place where adults came to be adults. Much of that included leaving the kids back home, and having a little R and R that included gambling and drinking and maybe some smoking too.

Oh, who are we kidding??? Everybody smoked back then! But these days parents are looking for a different Las Vegas. One that is more suitable for the whole family. They can find it too!

Where to Look for Las Vegas For Kids?

By looking at sites like VegasVacationVillage.com, parents can now easily find the best options for lodging, entertainment and adventures in Las Vegas and know right away what to do with their families.

We established this great website a few years ago to make it easier for our customers to discover more about the kid side of Las Vegas. Now it is better than ever, with all new information and "Kid Ratings" too, so parents can see right away what is most suitable for their families.

VegasVacationVillage.com is a great website guide, showing all the latest kid shows, destinations, ratings and opinions on just about all the major attractions for children and kids in Las Vegas. It also sports information on some of the lessor known destinations in and near to Las Vegas that many visitors might otherwise have no idea at all about. Be sure to stop by and check out this great website before you make your next family vacation to Las Vegas.

As always, Happy Travels from Las Vegas Retreats!
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Vacation Rentals For WSOP 2012 World Series of Poker Are Booking Now

2011-12-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

Reservations are now being accepted for WSOP 2012. When the World Series of Poker comes to Las Vegas again next summer, there is no doubt that homes will experience another total sellout for the tournament period. Many regular customers are already inquiring and making reservations for our most popular vacation home rentals.

Whether you are a regular renter for WSOP or new to the idea of vacation rental lodging, jf you're considering a vacation rental for the World Series of Poker keep in mind that you're booking a home for the six week period. Book your homes as soon as possible. It is likely that all vacation home rentals and condo rentals will be booked for the World Series of Poker well in advance.

One more thing to consider when you choose your vacation home is the location of the home. We make that easy on our site, because nearly every home is a good choice for WSOP housing. You wont find any homes on our site that will way out in the northwest Las Vegas.

Whatever you choose for your WSOP housing next year, be sure to check our list of available homes to make the choice as easy as possible. Here you will find a complete list of homes available for WSOP 2012. If you're playing in the tournament or sponsoring a player, good luck to you!

Happy Travels! Las Vegas Retreats.

Have You Heard What Wayne Newton Is Doing To His House?

2011-11-23T17:09:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas is one of those places where stars do amazing things with their houses. It's been a tradition in the desert for the rich and famous to have extravagant tastes for homes here, ever since...well...ever. And certainly no star has done more with their Las Vegas property here than Wayne Newton. With everything from penguins to arabian houses, from the classic "Whitehouse" looking mansion to the on site private jet, Wayne has managed to capture the essense of what it means to be rich and famous in Las Vegas.

And now Mr Las Vegas (as the Wayne is known around here) has decided that all that amazing opulence is too much to keep to himself. He has decided to turn his entire estate into a Graceland style tour, complete with penguin petting zoo and a view of the private jet. Soon Las Vegas visitors will be able to see all of it for themselves, and catch a small glimpse of the star's somewhat private lifestyle.

Wayne Newton is a long time resident here, having moved to Las Vegas after his stardom boomed in the sixties. Modeling his act after the likes of Frank and Elvis, Wayne became a Las Vegas legend with his hard working life dedicated to performing on stage. His performances are not only the stuff legends are made of, but they also number in the thousands!

No doubt this will be interesting to watch. As the development continues and Wayne continues to be a powerful force in Las Vegas, he has been able to secure the approvals and right of way to do almost everything he has asked for. Even moving the private jet from McCarran airport to his own backyard and buying the property across the road for parking. This project IS happening. If that there is no doubt. We're hoping it will be a great success. Las Vegas could us one right about now.

Happy Travels from Las Vegas Retreats!

Las Vegas Concierge Services

2011-10-31T13:19:00.000-07:00

Today we travel in a fast paced and demanding world. In Las Vegas the requests for a concierge has become increasingly prevalent. Now by an exclusive arrangement, Las Vegas Retreats is providing concierge services to our customers through Las Vegas Concierges, the premier professional service in Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Concierges has a variety of concierge services for vacation travelers and corporate travelers as well. Offering everything from ala carte requests to our premier membership programs.

No request is too big or too small! Whether you need show tickets, tours, limos, club access, and more! Tell us your wishes to us and let us go to work for you! We're looking forward to proving we are the best!

Introducing Castillo Hermoso

2011-10-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

Castillo Hermoso is lovely and luxurious vacation home rental located in the western Las Vegas area, moments away from the famous Las Vegas Strip.

This is a large 5 bedroom 3 bathroom home that offers privacy and space for up to ten guests. Castillo Hermoso offers features and amenities normally found in more expensive vacation rentals at an affordable price.

This wonderful vacation home rental is great for families and friends who want something away from the Strip. You'll get a home with both living rooms and family rooms, as well as an upstairs game room with big screen TV and pool table.

The back yard at Castillo Hermoso offers a wonderful pool and spa with removal water volleyball net. The covered patio offers respite from the sun with a BBQ and plenty of comfortable seating. We are certain you will appreciate the value of this excellent home and the entertainment it offers.

Downstairs you will find a bedroom and adjoining bathroom with shower. Upstairs are three more full bedrooms sharing an additional bath, as well as the master bedroom suite. Every bedroom in Castillo Hermoso has its own television.

You will find shopping and dining options nearby. For adults and kids and alike, there are great choices only a few minutes away. Movies, golf, gambling, shopping and dining of almost any kind are just minutes from the home.

This is an excellent home for families and business guests alike. The home is only moments from Hwy 215 west, providing great access to the Las Vegas valley and the surrounding area.

Castillo Hermoso is an excellent home and a great alternative to high-priced hotel and casino lodging. Offering privacy and features that no hotel can offer at a price no hotel can match.

The Difference Between The Best Deal And The Best Value

2011-08-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Everyone wants to get the most bang for the buck. This is always the case. But this becomes especially true when times are tough. The incentive to squeeze the most value from every dollar becomes a first priority. But just as always, there is danger lurking amongst the various methods people use to find the best deals. When the priority shifts to "lowest price" then all the potential pitfalls rear their ugly heads and more often than not a good deal turns into a regrettable compromise.

Everyone is subject to overlooking the obvious once in a while. When we focus solely on lowest price then we become blind to other very important factors. For example, lets say you're comparing different five bedroom vacation rentals. One is listed at $399 per night plus a cleaning fee while another is listed at only $299 per night and the owner is waving the cleaning fee. That's a savings of over $300 or more for only a 3 night stay. So you opt for the lowest price, since the homes look similar anyway and start imagining the additional money you can throw away on slots.

When you arrive at the vacation rental, the first thing you notice is the Strip is not very close. The owner said it was "about 15 minutes away" but he neglected to mention that the the traffic is usually pretty bad in this direction, so that's actually closer to 25 minutes. Especially right when you want to go. And there are no taxis way out here.

As you look over the home, you begin to see why there was no cleaning fee. There was little or no cleaning done. It looks like the last guests did the dishes and washed the towels themselves, but there is still dust and the floor is dirty. The bathrooms need a scrubbing. Bad!

The backyard is a real adventure. It appears that lawn maintenance is done annually. The tall dead grass helps to hide some of the trash and cigarette butts, so that's good. The pool was cleaned fairly recently and the water is somewhat clear, but the barbecue looks like a science project. It is also quite apparent that pest control has been sacrificed to give you a good deal, as pigeon evidence is everywhere and the scampering red beetles on pool deck make this all too clear.

Now you might be laughing at all this and think this is an unrealistic scenario. But these stories are based on actual complaints we hear from the public all the time. It is quite simple to understand actually. Vacation rentals cost money to operate and maintain. You cannot do it well or even correctly if you keep giving everything away. Homeowners who are in distress will bend their standards because they are in distress. You risk being a victim if you fall for the trap.

It is so easy to overlook the elements that make up a great vacation. Ideally you wont even have to think about them. But you will know for sure when they are missing, and the money you saved will come back to haunt in other ways. We recommend that you don't waste your money on unrealistic prices and deals that are too good to be true. Your vacation is not worth the risk of saving a few dollars for giving up the good time you really want. Be smart! Shop for a great Las Vegas vacation rental that offers great value and do not sacrifice for mere dollars! You will be glad you did.

Casa Picasso Is A Cozy Vacation Rental Close To The Strip

2011-08-05T07:31:00.000-07:00

In the last couple of weeks we added a new vacation home to our site. Casa Picasso is a cozy three bedroom vacation rental located barely 5 minutes from Las Vegas Blvd. For the sake of convenient access to McCarran Airport and casinos on the south end of the Strip, this one cannot be beat. Casa Picasso offers a a cozy backyard pool and spa. This is a great home for anyone looking for value.

Casa Picasso can sleep up to six people in 3 queen sized beds. The home is located in a gated community and home provides excellent proximity to local shopping and attractions. Casa Picasso includes both a living room and family room, a full kitchen with dining area and formal dining room. Each secondary bedroom features a queen bed, flat screen television and direct access to jack-n-jill bathroom. The master bedroom features a queen size bed, sitting area with flat screen television and a large private bathroom.

The backyard at Casa Picasso features a sparkling pool and seperate spa. A gas BBQ, patio table with seating for 4 covered by a large retractable umbrella, and two loungers complete this relaxing area.

Be sure to check out more information about this great vacation home rental on our website.

Las Vegas Vacation Home Rentals Opens An All New Website!

2011-07-22T14:19:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce the purchase of LasVegasVacationHomeRentals.com and the opening of an all new website to showcase our homes.

We've known for a long time that people tend to shop by product name rather than vendor name, so this new domain gives us the chance to reach even more people than before.

Now anyone who might be searching will know exactly where to go to find the best vacation homes in Las Vegas and where they're located on the web.

Be sure to visit the new website when you have a chance and let us know what you think. We're always interested in your feedback!

Top Five Las Vegas Vacation Home Rentals Questions

2011-07-19T08:09:00.000-07:00

Throughout the world you will find vacation rentals in almost any reasonably popular tourist destination. From London and Paris to Tahiti and Australia, vacation homes are available as an alternative to hotels. And for many people (and places too), the questions are the same. How much? How far? And of course, is it available? This is also true in Las Vegas. But in Las Vegas there are some unique questions that arise in addition to the typical ones.

Consider for example, the climate. What is the best time of year to visit Las Vegas? Did you know that Las Vegas is NOT always hot? In fact, during the winter months it can be downright cold. Snow is not uncommon, though it is not frequent either. The best times to visit, climate wise, are during spring and fall. Winter can be very cold and the summer heat here is legendary. But, the summer is also the best time for legendary Las Vegas fun. Sitting in the pool, enjoying some indoor fun during the midday, then out on the town for the hot Las Vegas night.

Are there any Las Vegas vacation home rentals that are close to the Strip so you can walk? Quite simply, no. There are none close enough that a person could reasonably walk there. There might be some very old homes bear the Strip, but they aren't vacation homes and you would not want to stay there. Plan your vacation home to be near the Strip and rent a car. A reasonable trip to almost anywhere you would want to be will be 5 to 15 minutes.

Can I stay in Elvis' house? First of all, Elvis did not live in a house in Las Vegas. He lived on the top floor of the Hilton Hotel for the entire time he performed in Las Vegas. The Hilton (then called The International) was built for his show, and the top floor of the hotel was built for Elvis. This is the place where he shot the television upon seeing The Beatles arrival in the U.S. By the way, the Hilton will soon be changing it's name. The company that runs the hotel has lost it's rights to use the Hilton name and will have to come up with something new.

Should I worry about safety? I hear Las Vegas is a dangerous city. No, you should not worry. And yes, Las Vegas has crime. In that way it is not unlike any major city. However, most of the vacation homes you find for rent in Las Vegas are not actually located in Las Vegas. They are located in one of the many suburbs and not close to the city itself. The better homes are also located inside gated or guard gated communities.

Is there anything but the Strip to do in Las Vegas? You bet there is! Las Vegas is located perfectly for an entire adventure of the Southwest. Only 15 miles to the west is Red Rock canyon, a wonderful places for the family and outdoor hiking adventures. To the southeast is Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. All within easy driving distance! In fact, now there is a freeway nearly the entire way to any of those destinations. You can also head up north for barely more than an hour to St. George Utah, the gateway to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon.

We hope these tips will help you enjoy your next Vegas adventure. Please be sure to let us know of your own discoveries!

Unique Things To Do And See In Las Vegas

2011-06-14T14:19:00.000-07:00

The Las Vegas Strip offers a million things to entertain you. And beyond the lure of blinking slots and scantily clad blackjack dealers are hundreds of stores, shops and restaurants for almost every taste. Las Vegas seems to be a place where everything is available 24 hours a day. And of course, all of this is cheaper on Mondays.

Las Vegas is also a town with a deep historic character. Not only a gambling town, also an old west and a pioneer town. In the days of the old west, Las Vegas was a prime destination on the Mormon trail and a watering hole for many a cowboy in wild west times.

Las Vegas is also a place with character away from all this. Visitors who are willing to venture away from the Strip will discover a myriad of different and amazing things. For example, only a few miles to the west there is Red Rock Canyon, a perfect destinations for family outings and some amazing natural history. To the east of Vegas there is Lake Mead and historic Boulder Dam. One considered one of the seven wonders of the world, both the dam lake are great ideas for the whole family.

For those visitors with some time on their hands, Las Vegas also serves as a great starting point for adventures to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. All of which are only a few hours away by car, with excellent highway access in every direction. With the opening of the Bounder Dam Bypass, northern Arizona is now closer to Las Vegas than ever. This is perfect timing for visitors wanting to see the Grand Canyon Overlook and heading into destinations such as Flagstaff, Jerome and Sedona Arizona.

Even without leaving town there is much adventure to be had in Las Vegas. Perhaps you might want to pay a visit to Las Vegas Gold and Silver, setting for the infamous Pawn Stars television series. Not too far away you will find “The Springs Preserve” an excellent place to take the kids and get an education of the natural desert environment that was Las Vegas long ago.

These activities are a great addition to any Las Vegas adventure. For visitors staying in Las Vegas vacation home rentals, they are a great way to have fun and avoid the traffic and noise (and cost!) of the Strip. These destinations are perfect for family outings. Most of them can be accomplished in a couple hours and make an nice addition to a day spent in your vacation rental. Whatever you choose, have a great time in Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Vacation Rentals With Hotel Services

2011-05-31T20:16:00.000-07:00

Most of the time, choosing to stay in vacation home rentals means giving up the features and amenities that one might enjoy from a typical hotel. Simple conveniences are sacrificed for the privacy afforded by the vacation rental.

This might not be a big deal in places like Lake Tahoe or Park City Utah, where the main draw is skiing. But in Las Vegas, giving up the hotel means giving up a lot more than just the restaurants. It also means giving up easy access to shows and tours and information about where to go and what to do in Las Vegas. It means giving up easy access to that all important concierge. The one you can call to get you setup with just about anything you want to do.

After hearing that feedback from our customers, Las Vegas Retreats is now offering the same access to all those things with our excellent Las Vegas vacation home rentals. With the establishment of our new “Services” department, we are providing our customers with the same excellent concierge services one might expect from any of the better Strip hotel casinos.

We can arrange everything from weddings to a romantic flying tours of Las Vegas and Hoover Dam. If you want to race a Ferrari or Lamborghini or even maybe take a shot at some high-flying aerial dog-fighting, they have adventures for almost every budget. You might even discover a side of Las Vegas you never knew existed!

We're Putting Relaxation Back Into Vacations

2011-05-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Remember when going on vacation meant taking a little time off for rest and relaxation? It seems something has happened to change the meaning of the word vacation. These days we end up coming back to work needing a rest from the vacation we just had. We spend so much time going and doing and not enough time just kicking back and enjoying what is already in front of us.

Now Las Vegas is not the kind of place that helps with this problem. The casino hotels along the Strip have done everything they can to get you back out of your room. And the reasons are obvious. If you are in your hotel room, then you are probably not spending money. The hotel needs a constant stream of customers in the restaurants, gamblers at the slot machines, and people out at the pool renting cabanas and buying drinks. They cannot survive with it, so they concentrate everything towards getting it to happen.

Now contrast that with a stay in a Las Vegas vacation home rental. Las Vegas Retreats homes are intended to give you a home-like environment away from home. Our goal is to enable you to enjoy yourself at the home and to go out end enjoy the best of Las Vegas as well. There is no sacrificing with our homes, because you will be able to enjoy your own pool and spa, your own food and drink, and your own entertainment right at the house. Then later on when everybody is ready for an outing, you have the best of the Las Vegas Stip only moments away.

We've said it many times, and it is still true to this day. Most of our customers prefer a Las Vegas Retreats vacation rental home to a hotel room stay any time. Once customers have tried staying in our vacation home rentals in Las Vegas they seldom want to return to a hotel room. There is just no comparison!

Las Vegas Retreats Gets An "A" Upgrade From The Better Business Bureau

2011-05-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

It's taken five years now, but the BBB has finally removed that pesky "A-" from our profile and gave us the full-fledged "A" rating. Now, at first that might not seem like a big deal. But the truth is that in order to get an A rating with the BBB, you must maintain a perfect record for at least 5 years. That means that we have successfully maintained a perfect record since the day we first signed up.

We take pride in the accomplishment. To us the rating means customers agree that we provide excellent customer service. Although it may not be known to the greater public, Las Vegas Retreats has watched many "competitors" come and go in the last five years. They hide behind new identities in order to mask a history of poor customer service. In the mean time, we have spent our time growing into a mature company, with the same name and owners, that values its customers and does what it takes to have and keep a good reputation.

Since we opened our office on the Strip last year, some competitors have chosen to open P.O. boxes across the street from us. They list these mail drops as their "office" in order to appear like Las Vegas Retreats. They don't realize that the reason we open an office was for our customers. It is located so that visitors can come and see us in person, and have a real crew of people accountable to them.

We don't blame them really. We're a tough act to follow. We wouldn't want to have to compete with us either! But we're not in this for the short term gain. We love what we do and plan to keep doing it for the long term. We want you to know that we appreciate your business. It means everything to us that our customers get at least what you have paid for. We will continue to work hard to gain and keep your trust, and to provide you with the best vacation rental experience possible in Las Vegas.

Vacation Home Rentals Are Not Traditional Home Rentals

2011-05-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

It seems obvious, and yet many people don't really consider all the differences when renting a vacation property versus a traditional home rental. This is true of the home itself and of the entire process as well. The nature of the vacation rental process is entirely different all the way through.

First of all, a vacation home in Las Vegas has to be near the Strip. As the main draw in Vegas, the Strip is the place most people want to visit when they come here. So whereas a traditional renter might be fine with being 20 minutes from the Bellagio, a vacation renter wants to be as close as reasonably possible. They are planning on making several trips to miracle mile during their stay, so they do not want to drive too far.

Additionally, the home most provide as "hotel like" readiness. This means that all the lights and power are on as well as the cable TV and Internet access. The home must have a private pool and preferably a spa, as well as a room that can be called a "game room". Ideal homes have bathrooms connected to every bedroom, and also give the guest feeling of privacy and exclusivity.

None of these things are important to a traditional renter. Even if they are looking for a furnished home, they are likely showing up with more than a suitcase full of clothes and ready to sign on for all the utilities. This is not at all the same customer and not at all the same market. Traditional renters are not travelers. Plain and simple.

This is why Las Vegas Retreats specializes in servicing the vacation rental and corporate housing markets. The customers who come to us want to know that our homes are ready to use, have all the features to make for a great vacation, and are located close to almost everything they want to see and do in Las Vegas. That's exactly what we provide, and that is exactly what our customers get.

There are plenty of good real estate companies in Las Vegas who represent excellent rental homes of almost every type and price. And none of them provides 24 hour customer service. None of them has a cleaning crew to perform a top to bottom cleaning between every guest. None of them acclimatizes homes or heats the pool for incoming guests, or makes sure that everything is working the way it is supposed to.

Of course we are biased. But it's mostly from operating the business for so long and discovering all the differences for ourselves. When you are looking for a great vacation home rental that actually is one, call Las Vegas Retreats. It is our business!

Something A Little Different

2011-05-03T12:28:00.000-07:00

You've seen them out your window of your strip hotel room. Those helicopters buzzing up and down Las Vegas Blvd, carrying visitors from all around the world on an aerial adventure above this city of lights. Now, as a customer of Las Vegas Retreats, you have front row access to adventures like this one and many more. By an exclusive relationship with some of the best tour operators in town (like Maverick Helicopters and ACA), Las Vegas Retreats can arrange any tour you like and have your pickup right at the front door of your vacation home rental. Whether you want to take a night time flight to see the Strip or take a more adventurous helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon, our friends have some of the most exciting options available.

Call us today to book your adventure! 888 887-0951

Last Chance for WSOP Housing And World Series of Poker Rentals

2011-04-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

If you are one of the many participants scheduled to appear at the upcoming World Series of Poker in Las Vegas, now is your last chance to book WSOP housing for the tournament. In the next few days, any remaining homes will be opened up to a waiting public for booking as regular vacation rentals.

Pent up demand is tremendous, as most owners and companies have been holding their homes open, hoping to book for the entire six week period. Now with the competition getting close, many of the homes that haven't rented will be made available to non-tournament customers as well.

The truth is that vacation rental customers will actually spend even more than WSOP players, it's just that they do it one or two weeks at a time instead of two months. Players who are still looking for discounts are going to be sorely disappointed. We've heard many stories about how "all the foreclosed homes will make rents cheap in Vegas". This ridiculous logic leaves out one critical point, that banks don't rent homes.

Additionally, it's invalid logic because owners who are in distress cannot also afford to furnish a home and set it up as a vacation rental in the first place. See the Fountainbleu Hotel? See how its 4000 rooms stand empty? It doesn't matter. Rooms at the Wynn and Bellagio are still $550 a night and more.See what we mean?

Consider this fair warning. We love you guys and want you to get a fair deal and a nice home to stay in. Call us in the next few days and get a great deal on a great home and be happy you did!

Call (888) 887-0951 To Reserve Homes For WSOP!

Palacio Del Valle - Five Bedrooms of Luxury With Features Galore

2011-04-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest addition to our luxury vacation rental home collection, Palacio Del Valle. This is is one of those rare homes you really hope to find in your search.

This luxurious five bedroom vacation home rental is located in the hills above Green Valley. Offering not only the privacy and seclusion you're looking for, but without sacrificing location to the prime attractions in Las Vegas. Even the most popular areas of the Strip are moments away.

This extra large five bedroom five and 1/2 bath vacation home rental offers not only privacy and the seclusion of a gated neighborhood, it offers more living space than almost any rental we have. There is plenty of room for families and friends to spread out and really enjoy the experience.

Basketball and Sport Court
Like most of our homes, Palacio Del Valle offers a luxurious pool and spa. However, unlike most of our homes, it also offers an exceptional half-court basketball setup as well as an in-ground trampoline.

This house is going to be something the family (and your friends) wont soon forget. The pool is adorned nicely with the Las Vegas red rock look, and also offers a water slide and small grotto to hide away from the afternoon sun. We're certain that you will enjoy the features offered by this amazing property.

Palacio Del Valle is an excellent home and a great alternative to high-priced hotel and casino lodging. Offering privacy and features that no hotel can offer at a price no hotel can match. For more information or to book this amazing home for your next visit Click Here or call us today!

Vegas From A Different Perspective

2011-04-11T21:13:00.000-07:00

Those of us who live in Las Vegas all know the secret, that living in Las Vegas is absolutely amazing. And for myself, it was several years worth of visits to the city and never missing a chance to ask the question "How do you like living here?". After several hundred "Like and/or love it!" to only one "Hate it!", it became somewhat obvious that the place was a good choice.

That is one of the main reasons why we love our business. We love introducing visitors to the other side of our phenomenal home, Las Vegas. We know that once you discover how great it is to have a fabulous home near equally fabulous entertainment options of every kind, you too will make the discovery. You truly can have it all in Las Vegas!

What do we mean by that? We mean that with a Las Vegas vacation rental home you have privacy and security for your family, business, or just you and your friends, as well as the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip just minutes away. Once you discover that you can lounge in the pool and BBQ until your ready to go see Barry Manilow, who's show is a mere 10 minute drive awat, direct to the FREE valet parking, you will love it!

Even after the show, you'll discover that unlike your home in L.A. or San Francisco, you can be back at the house in no time at all. No traffic jams and no crowded avenues to worry about. In fact, you'll probably notice that you still have enough time to express yourself with the slot machines for awhile and still make it home in time to hop in the pool again before settling down to watch a movie.

Now, doesn't that sound better than a hotel room? Doesn't that make much more sense? To spend the same amount of money for an incredible home that you would just to sit on the edge of the bed to watch TV in your hotel room?

Okay, we'll give the Strip Hotels their due. If' you can't stand not having the casino right down stairs, you wont like staying in a Las Vegas vacation rental. They don't have Slots in them. Oh, and the lights out from don't blink all the time like they do on the Strip. But, we're not judging. To each their own!

If you've never stayed in the vacation rental in Las Vegas, you simply don't know that you''re missing. And you're missing a lot! Consider the differences on just these topics alone...

Eating - You're food versus their restaurants all the time.
Privacy - Zero privacy versus total privacy.
Space - 800sq ft versus 3000 sqft or more!
Pool - Shared with hundreds of people versus just you and your family or friends.
Gaming - Very costly and smoke filled versus your own free game room and pool table.
Environment - Clean and quiet versus smoky, alcohol smelling and intentionally noisy.

There is even more than this to consider, but really it all comes down to the experience you will have versus the one you imagine you'll have.

We hope to see you soon!

Secret Las Vegas Adventures Not On The Strip

2011-03-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

So there you are sitting in your vacation home, contemplating yet another visit to the veritable Las Vegas Strip. Perhaps you're thinking you would like to find some secret haunt that only the locals know about? Maybe a club or restaurant that caters primarily to the hometown crowd? Well my friend, here is a secret that almost all the locals know, Las Vegas best kept secrets are not on the Strip at all. That isn't to say that there aren't some excellent finds there, but locals aren't going to brave the traffic and congestion every time they want to visit their favorite place.

Now here's the good news, they are not that far from where you are. If you're in a vacation home rental in Las Vegas then you can certainly get to them easily and enjoy something a little different and a little more secret than the Hard Rock Hotel. Many of them are located close to the Strip, maybe just a couple blocks away. And since Las Vegas is generally laid out in a grid pattern, getting to many places wont involve navigating a huge and confusing maze of twists and turns. Las Vegas is not New Delhi.

If you want a little adventure, not too far off the beaten path? Try Red Rock Canyon on the west side of the Las Vegas Valley. Just take Hwy 215 west, exit on Charleston Blvd and make a left turn to drive up to the Canyon and entrance to the park. This one is well worth the effort and a perfect family outing. How about an excellent Las Vegas dinner served in the traditional Las Vegas way? You know, outstanding food and service? Remember that?

If you would like to experience the glory days of Las Vegas customer service and quality, be sure to try Panevino. Located just a half mile off the Las Vegas Strip at Sunset Rd and Gilespie, Panevino's has been around forever and has a local's favorite the entire time. Great Italian fare, a tremendous wine selection, and great service is what Panevino offers, and they do it better than almost anyone in town.

Perhaps you would like to try something a little more spicy? Something exotic and unusual? How about the best Thai food you've probably ever had? If something incredibly fresh and home made tasting is what you have in mind, there can be no other recommendation than the Lotus of Siam. This is probably the best Thai food we have every tasted anywhere!

Located on Sahara, east of the Strip about a mile, is a very large strip mall called "Commercial Center" that does not look at all like the place one would expect to find an excellent restaurant. But if you make a quick right turn into the mall and then another quick right inside, you will find the Lotus of Siam just a couple stores down.

There are literally dozens and great recommendations for what to do and where to go away from the Strip. Las Vegas Retreats is always happy to share the local secrets with any of our customers! We can recommend almost anything you might want to do, and maybe some things you haven't thought of. Give us a call any time!

Las Vegas Retreats (702) 944-9978

At Least They Tell You Up Front That They Might Be Lying

2011-03-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

The top of the page says "Get What You See, No Funny Business" but the fine print at the bottom says "By entering and viewing this site, you are waiving XXXXXX XXXXX LLC of any liability associated with any factual misrepresentation.". In other words, if you find out we lied, you can't hold it against us.

Sigh.... You know, when I was a kid, one of the first things I learned was to be wary of used car salesmen. My dad always said, "they will say just about anything to sell you a car". This was good advice, and as we all know, it isn't really just used car salesmen we have to watch out for. It's more a way of doing business to watch out for.

The goal is clearly to "Get your money!" and not "Earn Your Trust". But the truth is the opposite. Not only is the real goal to get your money, but these companies don't provide any real value at all. In many cases somebody decided to just setup a website and try to resell what is already available elsewhere directly from the owner or manager. Where is the value added? There isn't any!

Surely Las Vegas is just one of those places that attracts businesses that like to push the limits. Frequently that means pushing it beyond what is ethical and fair. And even more than that, they push it to the point of saying "we might be lying to you, so don't be surprised if you find that out". So even though they might be telling you how fair they are, they're covering their tracks just in case.

Friends, this is nonsense. The question isn't about whether someone is accurate or not. The question is, why state up front that your main attribute is accuracy, and then say you can hold it against is if we are not accurate? You can't have it both ways. And shame on you as a customer if you let this slip past you.

Look, it's not easy to deliver a great product. It takes a team of people who are dedicated to making it happen. And this is where accuracy comes in. When you run a company the way it's supposed to be run, not only do you know every single thing about your vacation homes and condos, but you know their up to the minute status as well. You don't have to tell customers "Well, the owners told us it was working" or "We didn't know there was a rodent problem" or the all time favorite "The water heater broke and caused flooding damage, so we had to move you".

One other little tidbit to consider is this, when you have great Las Vegas vacation rental homes then you don't need to over-represent them or lie about what they offer. You can simply let them stand on their own with what they really are and what they really offer. And you, the customer who is spending your money for the privilege of using them, can rest assured that what you see is really going to be what you get.

Happy Travels!

Best Summer Vacation Rental Deals In Las Vegas Start In Mid July

2011-03-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

If you know anything about Las Vegas, then you've no doubt heard of the World Series of Poker. WSOP, as it is effectionaly called, is the annual gathering of the world's best poker players in Las Vegas, and the culmination of weeks of competitions around the world. WSOP will take place at the Rio hotel this year, as it usually does, for all of June and the first half of July.

Now, why should you care about that if you are not a poker player and you are not going to the Rio? Because many of the competitors will be choosing to stay in vacation rentals instead of hotels.

There will be over 10,000 players or more booking Las Vegas vacation home rentals near the Rio. Most importantly, that means if you are hoping to book a home during that period, you are likely to be faced with minimum booking period of a month or more. Most vacation rental companies and homeowners will be unwilling to take anything less.

If your schedule is flexible, consider vacationing in Vegas after mid July and during the second half of the summer. Most people will have completed their vacations by then, and the vacation home prices and selection will be much better then.

If Possible, Come When Homes Are Available Instead
Most of our customers do not come to Las Vegas just because a certain vacation rental home happens to be available. However, if you are flexible you can have a greater selection and a better chance at a discount. Many times you can save money by booking last minute.

Although this is not exactly the best way to get the exact vacation home you want, it might end up saving you some significant money. In some cases, you might even get a better home than you hoped for at a price lower than you expected to pay in to begin with. However we recommend that you have a back up plan in place should everything be unavailable.

As always, Happy Travels! Best of luck!

Guest Assurance Is Important, Especially For International Travelers

2011-03-01T16:02:00.000-08:00

When we make reservations at a hotel like the Bellagio or Venetian, we know that we're going to be taken care of well on arrival. Things will be just as we expect them to be, and everything will be as advertised. And these are reasonable expectations, and in fact they are exactly what will happen to the vast majority of guests at those places. But vacation home rentals are not the Bellagio or the Venetian, and the typical rental is not operated to those standards.

That's where we are different than most vacation rental companies in Las Vegas. We run our homes with the utmost of professionalism and attention to detail. We aren't trying to the like the Venetian, but we want our guests to feel confident and relaxed in knowing that we are doing our best to provide the good service they expect. We want our guests to enjoy their stay and not give a second thought to the home, the same way they don't give a second thought to their hotel room.

We love what we do for a living. Being in the vacation and travel business in Las Vegas is truly a fun job. People come from all over the world to visit us in Las Vegas. To many people it is like visiting the Land of Oz.

We want our customers to rave about our town and to rave about their vacation home. This is our primary goal all the time, including when it is not in our favor. We're looking for long term success, not short term gain.

We often rant about other companies in this blog. And it's true, we don't think they take this business as seriously as we do. But that's only because the evidence is all over the place, and we know that companies tend to act the way the act, good or bad, as a pattern. If they misrepresent up front, they're going to misrepresent ongoing. Whether it's calling their P.O. Box an "office" or trying to tell you that BBB accreditation a "liability", that's just the way it is. They hide from the truth and we hope you don't fall for it.

As always, be careful when you choose who to book a vacation home with. And if you are traveling internationally, there is no need to ruin your global travel when good and reliable Las Vegas holiday villas are available. Be extra careful to check the easy to find Internet references first.

Travel safely and have fun!

All Vacation Rentals Are Not The Same

2011-02-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

Look Beyond Just Price
So you're looking for a good deal and you've been shopping around for vacation rentals in Las Vegas. Prices seem to vary widely, sometimes by hundreds of dollars or more per night.

But the goal here was to get a good deal, so you choose one that seems reasonable and book it. You feel good about yourself, because you just saved $300 by shopping around a little, and still got a decent 4 bedroom home with a pool and spa only a few minutes from the Strip.

Not Exactly What We Expected
When you arrive to begin your trip, the first thing you notice is that the home seems to be more than a few moments from the Strip. In fact, this neighborhood doesn't seem very welcoming at all and the house doesn't look like the one you booked online. But your code opens the front door, so this must be the place.

As you enter the home and look around, it is clear that this home has not been cleaned well. Surfaces are dusty, furniture is worn and tattered. Decorating is a combination of "whatever was available" and is not at all what was depicted online. When you call to bring this situation to the attention of the vacation rental company, there is no answer.

Swindles Are Nothing New
This situation is all too common in Las Vegas. We're sorry to say that many companies here have been getting away with this behavior for years. Enforcement by local authorities is only done in the most extreme cases.

Customers also have very little recourse with the Better Business Bureau because these companies aren't usually members to begin with. They're listed, usually with an "F" rating, because customers have complained about them. But because they're not members, they don't have to adhere to any customer service practices outlined by the BBB.

In a case like that, all someone can do with the BBB is file a complaint, after the fact, which we do recommend. Even if you can't help yourself, at least you can help save the next unwitting customer from becoming a victim as well.

What Was The Name Of That Company, Again?
Another way companies like to avoid their dark histories is by changing their name. They happily give up the advantage of creating brand recognition in order to tell some fake story about how they were just bought out our merged with any company. What baloney! All they did was replace the logo. They kept the same people, website, and crummy dishonest customer service.

It seems ridiculous to say, but even though complaints are easy to find, people tend not to look until it's too late. Once they've been taken advantage of, then they will go online and confirm the bad news other people tried to tell them about. Ratings matter and complaints matter. There is simply no excuse not to take 5 minutes and do a little research before you send your money to people you don't know. Be careful and considerate when you choose a Las Vegas vacation home rental. Just a little investment before you make the commitment can make all the difference in the world.

And as always, happy travels from Las Vegas Retreats!

Our Newest Team Member!

2011-02-05T03:37:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas Retreats is happy to announce our newest team member, Lori Judd. Having worked for years in the Las Vegas travel business and especially as a high-level Las Vegas Concierge, Lori is an excellent addition to our already wonderful team. Lori comes with a wealth of experience and can assist with everything from choosing the right vacation home for your family or group, to setting up all the details of your Las Vegas Event.

With Las Vegas Retreats now strategically located amongst some of the best event space in all Las Vegas, Lori can help arrange your next wedding, party, reception or corporate event. Our new location at the Piazza Plaza affords easy access from nearly all our vacation home rentals. With 3 different event spaces at the Piazza and for as many as 300 guests, there is room for almost any sized event.

Call or email Lori for more information on our excellent vacation home rentals, and for your next Las Vegas event. She can be reached at 702 944-9978 ext. 103 or lori@lasvegasretreats.com.

BBB Accreditation is Cheap But Hard To Get

2011-01-31T05:22:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the old saying "Winning isn't everything"? You know who says that? Losers. That's what you hear when companies can't get BBB Accreditation. They'll tell you it's expensive and that they would just have to raise their rates to cover the cost. What baloney!

The truth is that BBB Accreditation is practically free. Even the smallest of companies can afford it. It costs about the same as the P.O. Box those companies refer to as their "office". However, your company has to qualify for it. And that's where the real reason they are not accredited. In fact the BBB generally gives those same companies an "F" rating as well.

If you watch our blog, you know that the same companies who put forth these bogus reasons for not being accredited also have a string of complaints against them. The truth is, running an honest business is not an accident. We've seen lots of these companies come and go since we're been around. The lies are nothing new, though it does surprise is sometimes with how blatant they really are.

Las Vegas Retreats is a real company with a real reputation and real offices, right on the Las Vegas Strip. We invite you to come by any time and visit. We'll be happy to introduce you to the staff who will be assisting you with your reservation, and the customer service crew who will be ready to help during your stay. And maybe if you're lucky, you can also meet the cleaning crew and pool team and the home technicians. These are the people who see to it that your vacation rental is ready and waiting when you arrive.

We do not consider our team to be a luxury. A quality experience doesn't just magically create itself. It takes real dedication and caring for the customer. We struggle to see how anyone can expect a company to act that way when their entire premise begins with a big fat lie. Choose wisely and do your research friends.

Happy Travels!

Secret Event Space Right On The Las Vegas Strip!

2011-01-21T09:40:00.000-08:00

The greatest thing about knowing a secret, is when it's right out in the open but nobody sees it! That's that case with the Copa Room, right here at the Piazza Plaza.

The Copa Room is the perfect event space for almost any kind of event anyone would want to hold in Vegas. With a capacity to serve up to 300 guests from a professional kitchen, and ample parking for cars and buses of any size, the Copa is a-one-of-a-kind find in Las Vegas.

Situated at the corner of Las Vegas Blvd and Robindale Rd, the Copa is suitable for everything from a formal sit-down reception to a dance party for 300 people. Business events,weddings, receptions, private parties, celebrity events, etc. The potential uses are practically unlimited.

Your guests can enjoy strolling the shops at The Piazza Plazza. Of course they are always welcomed at the 24 Hour Bootlegger Casino and Restaurant, located right next door. And in case anyone needs to do a little last minute shopping, eh hemm, the Factory Outlet Mall is right across the street.

The Copa Room is a great Las Vegas event location. Call us today to learn more about booking The Copa Room and other event space available at the Piazza Plaza. 888-887-0951

2011 International CES Consumer Electronics Show

2011-01-10T13:30:00.000-08:00

CES has come and gone again from Las Vegas. This year we saw over 140,000 visitors to the annual convention. A substantial increase from last years' 120,000 and further proof that the economy is continuing to improve, albeit slower than everyone wants it too.

January is a busy month at Las Vegas Retreats. Not only with the week long Consumer Electronics Show, but also the World of Concrete, the Concrete and Masonry Construction Event in Las Vegas.

As always, we recommend vacation home rentals over hotel lodging for these shows, and for numerous reasons. None the least of which is the flexibility afforded by vacation home rentals, but also the substantial savings in time money and exasperation of constantly waiting in line for everything.

Our regular guests will attest to the fact that staying in vacation homes during the convention provides a quiet respite away from the crowds and the ability to digest the days events. Many return customers look forward to their annual stay and refer to it as more of a working vacation than a business trip.

We want to thank our guests for being loyal to Las Vegas Retreats and for making this an excellent beginning to the annual convention season. We appreciate it very much.

Common Mistakes Vacation Renters Make Shopping For Homes In Vegas

2010-12-30T08:30:00.000-08:00

We frequently post stories in our Blog about how some companies in Las Vegas present themselves fraudulently and even advertise homes they don't have. The funny part is, every time we do it, the companies adjust their websites and advertising so it isn't obvious we're talking about them. In one such case, the company touting all the bogus awards removed all traces from their website as soon as they saw the post. Hilarious!

The truth is that good reputations are hard won and not easy to come by. It has taken Las Vegas Retreats years of hard work to get where we are and earn our excellent reputation. Still it's easy for the creeps to lie and pretend to be something they are not. They steal our content, our ideas, and try to look as good as Las Vegas Retreats. But of course, they fail every time. Miserably.

In the last seven years since we opened Las Vegas Retreats, we have seen no less than 8 major competitors come and go. Every time they tout their experience and honestly, while at the same time advertising their P.O. Box as their office or suite, operating without so much as a business license, and ruining the industry for the honest companies.

But the thing we worry about the most is the customers. The people who are coming to Las Vegas from all over the world, have spent weeks in planning, bought airline tickets and reserved rental cars, only to find out when they get here that their vacation rental choice was a really bad one. Maybe the home is foreclosed, occupied by someone else, had "recent water damage" so they got a substitute home that was nothing like what they reserved.

This ridiculousness happens every day in Vegas. All because someone didn't check the company they rented from. Nobody thinks it will happen to them. Everyone imagines that all will be well. But vacation homes are not hotels and vacation rental websites are easy to build. It is possible to create an entire website that looks real by stealing content from other websites. Even the homes!

So be careful! Take a few minutes when you're shopping around. Look beyond just the price! Ask who these people are? Are they licensed? What is their BBB rating? Where is their office? These simple questions can save a mountain of grief.

As always, we welcome your comments. Happy travels!

2011 World Series of Poker Dates Announced - Homes Booking Now!

2010-12-28T13:01:00.000-08:00

It's official, the 42nd World Series of Poker will begin on May 31 and run through July 19 2011. Once again this year, the tournament will be held at The Rio Hotel and Casino. This in spite of rumors that the competition would be relocated this year to one of several suitable Strip properties.

We are now offering our vacation homes for rent during the WSOP tournament. Homes will be available as a complete package including all utilities and rent as well as cleaning fees. Las Vegas Retreats homes are among the best choices for lodging during this long event, and include many amenities that would otherwise cost more in the typical hotel room.

Vacation home rentals for WSOP are likely to book fast. Call now for the best selection. 702 944-9978

Comparing Hotel Value to Professional Vacation Rentals

2010-12-14T13:11:00.000-08:00

One of the things we always strive for at Las Vegas Retreats is professionalism. We are well aware that once a customer chooses to venture away from the familiarity of the Strip, they are also more likely to experience a drop in the quality of service. Realistically, this should not come as a big surprise. There is a vast difference between operating a hotel and operating a vacation rental.

By combining the vacation home experience with excellent customer service, our customers get the best of both worlds. They enjoy the privacy and quiet of the vacation home rental without having to sacrifice the hotel customer service. With our company, customers enjoy the best of both worlds. Unmatched privacy and great service too!

The value comes down to what matters most for each customer. However, we find that most of our customers appreciate the value well beyond what even the best hotels and casinos offer. Consider the Bellagio or Mandalay Bay, which weekend rates souring to $400 and more for a single room. With one of our luxury rentals at barely $200 more per night, as many as 80 to 10 guests can share a wonderful home and have it all to themselves. Five or six couples can stay in luxury for the price of one and a couple or two and have total privacy as well.

Real Time Las Vegas Vacation Rental Reservations

2010-12-08T23:43:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce the relaunch of our website and the addition of a real-time booking system for vacation rental reservations. Now our customers have the convenience of booking Las Vegas vacation homes any time they want, day or night.

Our new reservation system also makes it easier than ever to find available homes quickly. By entering travel dates, customers can see all available rentals and costs for their entire stay. Then by selecting a home, customers can now complete the reservation in real time, and secure the rental for their selected dates immediately.

We hope you enjoy our new site and take advantage of the new quick search and reservation system soon. Please let us know what you think. We look forward to your feedback.

Las Vegas Vacation Rentals And The Pool Heating Option

2010-11-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

Certainly one of the main reasons someone would want to rent a vacation home in the first place, at least in Las Vegas, is because of the private pool. Nobody likes sharing a swimming pool with 500 strangers, so the vacation rental option is always an easy way out of that mess.

One of the questions we get a lot at Las Vegas Retreats is, what about heating the pool? Is it realistic in the winter and do I really need it in the summer? The easy answer is that it depends on how much you want to use the pool, but there really are a couple more things to consider. Especially when it comes to seasonal considerations.

In the winter, most of our homes will offer pool heat as an option. Though it does get cold in Las Vegas, sometimes very cold, we do not really get too much in the way of inclement weather. Snow here is rare, for example. Also, we are aware that many visitors come from parts of the world where it is always cold, so having a warm pool is always an attractive option.

We recommend pool heat in all months, except in possibly July and August when even the night times in Vegas are above 90 degrees. Then the pools will be nice and toasty without any help. At other times though, the evaporation rate in super dry Las Vegas will keep them a little chilly and in need of help.

Happy Thanksgiving to You!

2010-11-24T09:42:00.000-08:00

As the holiday season is now officially here, we would like to wish for a wonderful Thanksgiving to you and yours! This has been an incredible year at Las Vegas Retreats. With great thanks to you.

This year we accomplished so many of our goals. Not only have we moved into our first real office with a storefront, but we secured a location right on Las Vegas Blvd, in the middle of all our vacation homes! More importantly, we have been able to grow and improve our business, the homes we offer, and the quality of our service. According to your feedback, we are doing better than ever.

This year we also achieved the milestone of having one of our vacation home designs actually constructed and put into our working inventory. Palacio Privado is proving your feedback as well. This incredible home is something really special, thanks to you and your guidance.

We look forward to the furture, and we know that great things are in store. We wish the same for you, and we look forward to seeing you again soon at Las Vegas Retreats.

The Palm Castle Is Luxury At An Affordable Price!

2010-11-08T17:57:00.000-08:00

Castillo Palmilla is a lovely and luxurious vacation home rental in the heart of Green Valley, only moments away from the famous Green Valley Ranch Casino and Resort.

This home is a 3200+ square foot, 4 bedroom model and offers privacy and the seclusion of a gated neighborhood. Castillo Palmilla also offers excellent features and amenities complimentary to any vacation and all at an amazingly affordable price.

This wonderful home is great for families and friends who want something away from the Strip. But even though the home offers so much, you get to have it all and still be barely 15 minutes away. The two level home is located in a small gated neighborhood in Green Valley, one of the valley's premier communities.

Be sure to stop by the website and check out this wonderful Las Vegas vacation home rental. This is a really excellent home and an even better value!

Getting Around In Style From Your Vacation Home Rental

2010-11-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

One of the things we've noticed over the years of being in the Las Vegas vacation home rental business is that customers consider it something special. Not only are they coming to Las Vegas, and when isn't that exciting? They are also going to be staying in what is likely to become one of the best parts of the whole trip, and vacation home rental in Las Vegas! Many customers consider the vacation home as the main reason to come, and that the Strip and surrounding excitement, is really just the frosting on the cake.

One way to create a really excellent and memorable experience while in Vegas is to take a limo ride with you and your friends or family. Las Vegas has an incredible selection of limo companies and limousines. There must be hundreds if not thousands of tricked out Hummers and huge GMs tooling around Vegas, giving tourists the time of their lives and an experience they wont soon forget.

At Las Vegas Retreats, we recommend Elite Transportation for limo services. Elite Transportation works with select clients in town like Las Vegas Retreats to create a simple, easy and reliable way to get limo service to and from our vacation home rentals and either the Las Vegas Strip or McCarran Airport. They can also arrange for a Las Vegas tour or even something more extensive if you like.

If you have not tried the Las Vegas limo experience before, we recommend it! And if you are staying in one of our vacation home rentals, be sure to mention the limo experience to your booking agent. They can arrange for your airport pick-up and drop off and even coordinate a limo for a night on the town with up to 20 people per limo!

A Sad State Of Affairs

2010-11-01T09:57:00.000-07:00

We often visit the Better Business Bureau website, and we almost always see the same bad reports about the competition. Some of them, like the ones listed to the right, for example, are quite note worthy.

Some of these companies for by several names, so you have to be extra careful that you're not renting from the same disreputable companies hiding behind a new identity.

We thought you might enjoy reading this stuff for yourself. Sometimes it seems as though we're surrounded by a bunch of complete idiots who have no idea how to treat customers.

It's as if customers are a mystery to them or their business is predicated on the belief that most people will put up with crummy service and crummy homes and never complain.

So why does the Better Business Bureau give a rating of "F" to a "company"? Here are some of the reasons from just one profile. Sometimes it's something as simple as a missing business license, and other times it's because they don't have information on the company yet.

Failure to obtain a required competency license.
BBB does not have sufficient information to determine how long this business has been operating.
Number of complaints filed against this business.
Failure to respond to complaints filed against this business.
BBB does not have sufficient background information on this business.
The Bureau processed a total of 7 complaint(s) about this company in the last 36 months.
6 - Refund or Exchange Issues
4 - Failure to honor promised refunds, exchanges, or contract
2 - General Refund or Exchange Complaint Issues
1 - Contract Issues
1 - General Contract Complaint Issues
7 - No Response
7 - Company failed to respond to the BBB or to the consumer to resolve the issues.

In other words, of all 7 complaints, the company failed to respond to either the BBB or to the consumer who sought the help of the BBB. Nice... As always, be careful who you rent from.

It's Official - Our New Office Has Its Sign!

2010-10-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

After many months of waiting and working our way through all the various agencies that have a say so in Clark County, we finally have a bran dnew store front sign! We went with the back-lit look in order to match the Piazza Plaza style, but maintained our own clean look with blue and white color tones in our logo.

Okay, so there are a million signs in the world. But this one is ours and the only one of it's kind. Anyway, we hope you approve and we hope this will help our customers know they are working with actual people, and not just some cold lifeless website!

We hope you approve, and should you ever decide to drop in and say hello, you'll know right where to find us!

Bogus Awards Touting Bogus Quality

2010-10-27T13:53:00.000-07:00

One thing we've noticed in shopping the competition is how many of them like to post awards on their websites as a way to communicate how great they must be. The problem is, the awards are completely bogus and made up. Not only didn't they win any awards, the agencies they site don't even exist to give the awards away in the first place. In other words, the entire presentation is a complete lie.

We don't blame them, even though they are telling an outright lie. Las Vegas Retreats reputation is tough to compete with. A little research shows that we are the only BBB Accredited company in Las Vegas. A little deduction would tell you that if these "awards" actually meant anything, they would be reflected in the BBB profiles of these same companies. Instead, looking at the BBB usually turns up the "F" and "NR" ratings they typically have across the board.

Many companies assume that you wont check, so they just say whatever they want. For the most part, they are right. Nobody checks. But you are not dealing with the Bellagio or the Wynn Hotels here. These companies sometimes are nothing more than a website and a few pictures of homes. The primary goal is to get your money, and if lying is what it takes, then that is what they will do.

One easy way to tell if an award is real or not is to see if is linked to the award website. If it linked, then it will usually show a profile page for the company receiving the award and why. If not, well then, it's probably a bunch of hooey. Or as we like to call it, lying.

Casa Del Barco Gets A Makeover

2010-10-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

In a quiet setting only moments from the Las Vegas Strip, Casa Del Barco has been a favorite at Las Vegas Rertreats ever since we added it to our inventory.

Customers love Casa Del Barco's location, barely 5 minutes from McCarran airport and easy access to attractions in Green Valley as well.

This home has always offered exceptional value and convenience. Now that this wonderful home has been remodeled and modernized, we have little doubt that it will be more popular than ever.

Casa Del Barco offers 4 bedrooms on a single level, televisions in every bedroom, and 2 completely remodeled bathrooms. Opening to the game room and dining, and extending directly into the family room area, the home lends an airy and wide open feeling. In the back yard you will find a beautiful free-form pool and spa, as well as a covered patio extending the entire width of the home, leaving plenty of room for everyone.

Be sure to stop by our website and see more of this beautiful home. Las Vegas vacation rentals like Casa Del Barco are rare. Consider booking this excellent value for your next visit!

A Vacation Home Rental That Was Built To Be One!

2010-10-22T07:21:00.000-07:00

This may be a first in the entire valley. A Las Vegas vacation home rental that was designed and built from the ground up with that purpose in mind. From the seclusion and privacy to the convenient and thoughtful layout, this incredible vacation home simply works perfectly in every way.

For the last three years Las Vegas Retreats has worked in partnership with local architects and developers to create the perfect vacation home rental. One that would achieve all the things our customers ask for and do so in a way that made the value clear and obvious to anyone. We feel that Palacio Privado accomplishes that goal, and far more than that.

This incredible home is almost like having a luxury hotel all to yourself. Privacy abounds everywhere, and every part of the house offers something special. Every single bedroom in this house offers a private bad, large flat screen televisions and windows with electric shades to hide from the sun. The home offers dual master bedrooms, one the ground level and one on the second floor.

Outside the home you will find a completely enclosed swimming pool surrounded by a very private patio area. An infinity edge spa at the end of the pool offers a secluded place to take in the view of the amazing vacation home rental. The huge covered patio area offers a very large built-it bar with seating and yet another flat-screen television.

Be sure to stop by the Las Vegas Retreats website to see more pictures and information and to reserve Palacio Privado for your next visit to Las Vegas. We are sure you will love this home, because we had it built for you!

2011 World Series of Poker WSOP Vacation Rentals

2010-10-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

We have begun to accept advance reservations for the 2011 World Series of Poker. There is little doubt of another sellout, as this year the customers started calling us first. We have already taken reservations on our most popular WSOP vacation rentals and expect the trend to continue and increase.

If you are considering booking a vacation rental for 2011 WSOP, keep in mind that you will be reserving for the entire six week period and will be expected to put down a non-refundable deposit. This is because all vacation homes and condos will be booked for the World Series of Poker well in advance.

When you choose your vacation home, pay close attention to where your home is. Nearly every home on Las Vegas Retreats is a good choice for lodging during WSOP, but some are better than others with respect to distance and potential traffic issues. Also, saving a few dollars by renting something out in the northwest Las Vegas area is going to cost you in commute time. Keep that in mind, future winners. ;)

Vacation Home Rentals On The Las Vegas Strip?

2010-10-15T07:11:00.000-07:00

When I lived in the Bay Area there was this radio commercial for "Berkeley Farms". At the end of the ad, this voice would say "Farms? In Berkeley? Mooooooo". That's the case with vacation homes on the Las Vegas Strip as well. There are none.

When a customer books with someone else because "they have homes on the Strip", we cringe just a little bit. We know that we've just heard from yet another customer that's been hoodwinked by somebody. It's difficult to lose business because you are honest. But more importantly, it's difficult to watch someone get taken and not be able to do anything about it. All we can really do is keep educating visitors about Las Vegas.

So here is some education about Las Vegas. There are no houses on the Strip. There are some homes located on Las Vegas Blvd., but they are several miles away from the casinos. The area called "the Strip" starts on the south end right about where McCarran airport is. You cannot walk there from ANY vacation rental home unless you are coming to Las Vegas to practice for your next marathon.

There are many vacation home rentals in Las Vegas that are reasonably close to the Strip. For example, a 5 to 10 minute drive or taxi ride away. Vacation rental homes in Green Valley are a great choice, as are those in the South Strip area. A little farther away will afford you newer homes at lower rates, such as the areas of Southern Highlands and Summerlin. There are also vacation homes in the actual City of Las Vegas that are a great choice if you want to experience classic Las Vegas living and be close to the Downtown/Fremont Street area.

Finally, be careful when you rent your vacation home in Las Vegas. If you want an actual home, be prepared to have a way to get to and from the Strip and the other places in the valley as well. Do not plan to walk. It is too far too hot and too dry. Taxis are fine, limos are fine, and both are inexpensive and plentiful in Vegas.

If you are going to be here for more than just a couple days, get a rental car. That would be the least expensive of all the options, and the most flexible. One of the biggest advantages to having a rental car in Las Vegas, is that it opens up the entire area as a possibility. Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Red Rock Canyon and even the Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon can all be accessed easily with a rental car. And don't forget, valet parking is free in Las Vegas!

Homes That Sleep Up To 30 People?

2010-10-11T08:11:00.000-07:00

Think about that for a minute. Someone is advertising that they have vacation homes that can sleep up to 30 people. Can you imagine living next door to that house? With large groups of people moving in and out all the time? How many cars or taxis and limos would you see? Parties? It's bologna like this that gives our industry a bad name. It's reputation we fight against all the time. It becomes more difficult to run a legitimate business, needlessly.

Be realistic when you shop for vacation home rentals in Las Vegas. If you have a big group, consider getting a couple homes close to each other. This is a better approach than putting 5 people in every bedroom and taxing the plumbing well beyond its intended use. To say nothing of impacting the neighborhood in a really negative way.

A reasonable expectation for ANY vacation rental is TWO persons per bedroom. This simple rule of thumb applies to both homes and condos. Therefore a 6 bedroom home sleeps 12 to 14 people, not 30. The variable is for small children who can certainly share a bedroom with old kids and adults. There is a simple reason why "2 people per bedroom" works out so well. It is what was used to design the home in the first place.

In keeping with that reasonable expectation, it is also worth noting that closets are not bedrooms. Yes, I know that seems obvious. And yet on more than one occasion we have seen this very thing. Closets are not bedrooms, bedrooms are bedrooms. Why is this important you ask? Well, aside from the blatant misrepresentation of the vacation rental and what it is, there is the little issue of safety. Especially fire safety.
One reason that "two per bedroom" number is so important is because that is how the home was approved by the fire department and health and safety inspectors.

In short, don't play games to save a few dollars. It's not that much anyway and the results can be anywhere from uncomfortable to disastrous. Plan for 2 people per bedroom, no more.

Watch Out For Vacation Rental Companies With Multiple Personas

2010-10-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

One thing we have seen recently in Las Vegas is a rash of vacation rental companies portraying themselves under multiple identities. Not because they want to attract different kinds of customers, but because they are trying to distance themselves from their own soiled reputations.

In the age of the Internet, it is easy to go out and buy a new domain, transfer your old website to it, and redo the identity so you have a whole new look for the same old information. This is a quick and easy way to get away from the fact that customers have been complaining about you. You simply move along to your new website and viola! Problem solved!

It's also really creepy and definitely not how people should be treated. We think customers have a right to know who they are giving their money to and a right to expect what they pay for. Treating people badly or ripping them off and then running from the problems you have created is the cowards way.

As always, be careful who you rent from. Don't let you pursuit of the ultimate lowest price cloud your better judgment. There is always someone ready and waiting to do and say whatever will get your money.

Check The Southern Nevada Better Business Bureau

2010-10-06T12:38:00.000-07:00

We frequently check to see how well our competition is doing. Not only to make sure we are giving our customers a good deal, but also to see how well they are taking care of their customers. To find Las Vegas vacation rental complaints, we use the Better Business Bureau website and do a quick search to see who is listed and how the BBB rates their reliability.

There are two primary ways to get listed at the BBB. One is to call and sign-up. The other is because somebody complained about your business. The listings shown in this picture illustrate the difference between the two very well. Our listing is blue because we are Accredited Members of the BBB. The other listing is not a member.

Many companies wont commit to the level of service required for BBB accreditation. Their profiles on the BBB website, if they have one at all, usually reflect their lack of commitment to customer service, as illustrated by their ratings. This is the primary reason the BBB exists at all, to help steer consumers towards legitimate and reliable vendors. If you are not one, then you wont want to participate. It's that simple.

It is not hard to find Las Vegas vacation rental complaints. One of the dilemmas we face in Las Vegas as a legitimate business is that there are a lot of individuals and companies who are willing to do anything to get someone's money. Constantly presenting themselves as something they are not.

One local company reminds visitors on its website of how important in is to deal with a honest company. Then they proceed to refer to a post office box as their office. Don't you wonder what kind of vacation home you can rent from someone who can't tell the difference between an office and a P.O. Box?

Even worse, many so called "honest" companies are simply ripping people off and ruining their vacations and business trips. It not only hurts people, it hurts our business as well. We encourage our customers to be vigilant when renting vacation homes in Las Vegas. Take 5 minutes and check the company you are about to rent from. It can make all the difference in the world. Here are some helpful links to begin your research...

Southern Nevada Better Business Bureau
Ripoff Report
Vacation Rentals Watchdog
Vacation Rentals Community
Complaints Board

Barry Manilow At Paris

2010-10-01T21:41:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post this time to let you know that Barry has a pretty darned good show going on at the Paris Casino. Though admittedly not a huge fan (unlike Peter, Cleveland, Joe and Quagmire) I had a great time and enjoyed the show. Barry sings as well as he ever has and his showmanship is simply top deck.

One interesting side note was that the show was going on during the live MDA Telethon. Barry sent a live feed from his stage in Las Vegas, performed a song for the telethon, and then continued on with the concert. Impressive, to say the least, he never skipped a beat. Bravo Barry!

If you're coming to Vegas, whether you are staying with us or not, we highly recommend Barry Manilow at the Paris Casino.

As always, play safe and gamble smart!

We've Joined The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce

2010-09-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

Since we are now officially located on the Las Vegas Strip, we thought it was about time to join the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and make ourselves more visible businesses. It's funny, even in this day and age, how so few people are aware of the vacation rental business.

On the one hand, it seems like many people consider the option for their own vacations. Yet we find that in the business community, few people seem aware that vacation home rentals are readily available. We find that this is especially true in Las Vegas, and we hope that by becoming active members we can help to educate and enlighten other companies to the many advantages of lodging in Las Vegas vacation home rentals that professionally managed and supported.

Las Vegas Corporate Retreats

2010-09-10T20:57:00.000-07:00

Today we launched a new website dedicated to Las Vegas corporate retreats. The website offers information on using private corporate housing and off-Strip event facilities to maximize the value Las Vegas provides. While still having the excitement of the Strip nearby, private lodging solutions also offer a more intimate environment and the ability to get away from the distractions of glitter gulch, even if for a while.

We have had customers using our homes this way for years, so why not create a source dedicated to it? Be sure to stop by the new website and let us know what you think! We value your opinion and will use your comments to turn this into a great resource for corporate events planners.

As Easy As One - Two - Three!

2010-09-03T07:50:00.000-07:00

When someone does or does not book a vacation rental, one of the main factors in deciding is "can I do this right now?". And why not? After all, there you are about to book your flights and rental car, so of course, the idea of having to wait for vacation rental confirmations is a headache. It would be better, for example, if you could book a vacation home the same way you book your hotel. Pick a room, enter your information, boom, a room!

Now you will be able to do the same with your Las Vegas vacation home rentals too! We're about to introduce an entirely new booking process that will allow you to pick your dates, see what's available, choose your home, and book it in real time! No more faxing contracts and sensitive information. You'll be able to do it all, in real time, right on line!

Watch for more information here and on our website!

The Family Friendly Solution to Las Vegas

2010-08-19T17:24:00.001-07:00

Okay, who wants their kids in the casino? Am I right? Smoking and drinking are not great family values to instill in the little ones. And let's face it, the pool is a mile from your room. It always is! That's why we recommend the logical alternative, a vacation home rental.

In Las Vegas vacation home rentals near the Strip you can enjoy the fantastic Las Vegas weather, have some safety and security for the family, and not have to share the pool with 600 guests. Get that? No more marking your loungers with towels and sunscreen at 6am. And a really nice part about staying in a vacation home is that you save money on food by not eating out all the time. No waiting in line and no making reservations. Eat your food whenever you want!

We find that many families come to Vegas as a group. Mom and dad bring not only the kids, but grandma and grandpa as well. Everyone has a great time and the adults get to play as well. It's the perfect thing for reunions and weddings, and for the annual summer get together. Talk about Family Friendly Las Vegas!

So which sounds like more fun...gather up everyone from their rooms for the $29.95 buffet with 300 people in line, or firing up the BBQ for some home cooked burgers? All by your own swimming pool? With everyone having a great time away from all the congestion?

If you haven't tried a family vacation this way before, you really should. Many people swear by it, and do it year after year. It seems like once you've done it, you don't know why you hadn't done it before.

Sin City Vacation Rentals All New Website

2010-08-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

Sin City Vacation Rentals announced an all new website. A long time presence in Las Vegas, Sin City represents several of the best vacation home companies in town. The website currently offers advice to both private and coporate clients seeking private lodging in Las Vegas for short term or long term use.

The new website lists many of the Las Vegas vacation home rentals offered by Las Vegas Retreats as well as corporate housing by Las Vegas Corporate Travel. This is a new feature of the site, which until noe has been limited to offering recommendations and advice for potential vacation rental customers.

WSOP Lodging

Also worth noting is that Sin City continues to offer great advice to poker players looking for WSOP rentals. World Series of Poker participants are in for some real bluffing when it comes to finding a good rental for the tournament. It is not a secret that vacation homes are THE way to go for the long haul. Better staying equals better playing, no doubt about it. But just because you may feel prepared for your battles at the table, doesn't mean to going to win when it comes to finding a good vacation home or condo rental. Before you commit, and send along your deposit check, we recommend considering a few precautionary steps.

Las Vegas Corporate Housing

Corporate housing in private homes is very competitively priced when compared to extended stay hotel or staying in casino hotel. Good corporate rentals are professionally managed and maintained. The homes recommended here represent the best of Las Vegas inventory of outstanding homes and are located in the areas you need to be in. We list only those homes which meet the criteria of the business traveler.

Hosting Las Vegas Events in Vacation Homes

2010-07-26T20:27:00.000-07:00

For weddings, receptions, and business events, excellent Las Vegas event hosting can be accomplished in many vacation home rentals. This is an excellent alternative to high-priced hotel and casino event facilities. Not only can you save money, but you will also avoid the many inconvieniences that people often overlook.

Let's face it, trapesing through smoke filled casinos in your wedding clothes and high-heal shoes is not the best way to be prepared for the big event. Asking your guests to do the same thing is no fun at all. This is where a vacation home Las Vegas event hosting can really shine. You guests will arrive in a much more intimate setting, and wont have to walk a half mile and deal with crowds and gamblers. Be sure to check our website for more information before your next Las Vegas event!

We're Now Located on the Strip!

2010-05-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

In order to best serve our customers and to make ourselves as convenient as possible, Las Vegas Retreats has opened a new retail office in the Piazza Plaza, next door to The Bootlegger, a legendary Las Vegas restaurant.

The Piazza Plaza and The Bootlegger offer the unique opportunity for us to be situated in the midst of excellent event facilities that our customers need, and to be centrally located to all our vacation home rentals.

This great new location also allows us to be visible to the thousands of cars traveling up and down the Strip every day.

Stop By for a Free Gift!

Next time you're in Las Vegas, come say hello. We would enjoy meeting you in person. We'll even give you a free gift just because you did. And while you are here...in case you have not eaten at The Bootlegger, we highly recommend a visit for a taste of their highly acclaimed Italian Food, a taste of the real Las Vegas and some excellent live entertainment!

Something really special on the way

2010-05-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stay in vacation homes that were actually built and furnished to be Las Vegas vacation home rentals?

True, we have lots of really nice homes at Las Vegas Retreats. Some are actually quite incredible. But one thing we have never really been able to offer is a home with everything done just right for the traveler, versus a home that was created for permanent residential living.

At first that may not seem like such a big deal. But consider how be your needs requirements are for a traveler. Do you really need walk-in closets for the 2 pairs of pants and 3 shirts you brought for your trip? And how about the wine cellar. Is that really a good investment for you as a visitor? Probably not, and the list goes on and on.

Let's say that you could create a list of what matters to vacationers and short term guest, and create a home based on those needs and wants instead. You would end up with the perfect solution, and a home the stands out as utterly unique. At least in Las Vegas!

Las Vegas Retreats is proud to announce that we will soon offer just such a home. An incredible self-contained oasis that offers incredible privacy and luxurious living for vacationers and corporate guests alike.

Be sure to check this blog regularly for more information on this incredible home. We expect availability in early June 2010. We will begin taking reservations soon.

What's a Little Privacy and Exclusivity Really Worth?

2010-05-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is not news and I know that, Las Vegas Retreats offers great value to anyone seeking a more private experience of Las Vegas. You know, the kind where you can let you hair down a little, and maybe some other things too. Vacation homes are perfect for that, because you're not sharing your pool and spa with 1000 other drunken partiers.

But have you checked the cost of an adult experience on the Strip recently? We just tried to book a cabana at the Liquid Pool at Aria for August. The cost? $1000 per day, and no guarantee until the actual day if you will actually get one at all. $1000 per day for a little tent by the pool! No granted, that does include your drinks and a nice television.

For the same price, actually less, we rent one of our nicest luxury Las Vegas vacation rental homes with a private pool and spa, with a waterfall, in-pool seating at the sunken bar, and all the privacy anyone could every want. All that without the drunken throngs!

Here's another clue for you all...

2010-04-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

What does this place have to do with Las Vegas Retreats?

We like good Italian food?
Has excellent event facilities?
Secret hideout for famous performers?

Sure, all those things are true about The Bootlegger and about us. But none of those are the right answer!

Be stay to check back often, we're about to make a big announcement any moment. We believe that we're about to change the vacation rental business in Las Vegas, for the better and forever!

2010 World Series of Poker WSOP Vacation Rentals Near Total Sell Out!

2010-04-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

We are nearly sold out for the upcoming 2010 World Series of Poker. With only 2 homes and 3 condos left out of our entire inventory, we're assured of a complete sell out for WSOP once again this year. If you are competing or attending the upcoming tournament, book your WSOP rental today or risk staying in a hotel for six weeks!.

Big News Afoot at Las Vegas Retreats!

2010-04-14T05:02:00.000-07:00

We are days away from making a huge announcement! We're about to revolutionize the vacation rental business in Las Vegas, and we can't wait to tell you about it! Nothing like this has ever happened in Las Vegas before, and we are so excited to be the company who will do it here first.

Be sure to keep watching this space! Don't miss out on the big news! We promise, it will be worth the wait!!!

City Center Having An Impact on Las Vegas

2010-02-26T07:38:00.000-08:00

So, after months of putting it off, we finally made our way down to the new City Center development to have a look at the spanking new jewel of the desert. It's not that we've been avoiding it, actually we've been excited about it and looking forward to the project's completion. We just wanted to wait until enough of it was open to make the trip worthwhile.

Entering the development, one is easily overwhelmed with the massive scale of this place. The towering silvery hotels and condos make for an awe inspiring experience. Even the Wynn, Venetian and MGM pale in comparison to the mammoth City Center.

As we pulled up to the Aria, we were greeted by the typical Las Vegas casino valet in quick fashion. He pointed to a location that seemed a block away as "where you pickup your car", which of course required a trip through the entire Aria casino to get to. So, there's Vegas for you. Any questions?

Clearly, billions have been spent to create this place. Everywhere you look, there is something magnificent to see. Yes, the casino is huge. And yes, there are thousands of slot machines everywhere you look. But beyond all that, the experience of being surrounded by a truly stunning environment, real or not, evokes typical Las Vegas.

What does that mean? It means that Las Vegas is alive and well and still providing the same thing it always has, which only Las Vegas does. An experience of something you simply will not find anywhere else. Something both incredible and unique. Wow is a word that sort of describes it, but not quite. Closer to over the top, and yet, there it is! Real as can be! Like Oz, except you are actually in it.

Castillo Roya Available for WSOP

2010-02-23T16:46:00.000-08:00

Because of the overwhelming demand, one of our favorite homes, Castillo Roya, has been made available for the World Series of Poker.

Castillo Roya is a wonderful vacation home and a great value. Located directly next to Castillo de Lena, this very large two story home is located is only moments from the South Point Casino and the brand new M Resort. Inside a small development of custom homes, Castillo Roya represents a great opportunity for guests who want to be close to the best of Las Vegas and the main points of interest on the Strip.

For World Series of Poker participants, highway 15 is your main route to the Rio Casino and Hotel from this home, putting the main WSOP event site about 10 minutes away. Castillo Roya offers a great kitchen to accommodate your personal chef. Daily maid and limo services are available as well.

The backyard at Castillo Roya is currently being created and will include and amazing pool and spa, extensive patio with built-in BBQ, excellent privacy and plenty of lounge space, in and out of the sun. Castillo Roya features an upstairs enclosed patio overlook which provides a great view and a wonderful place for private outdoor lounging secluded from the main area.

Should You Rent A Car With Your Vacation Home?

2010-02-20T07:03:00.000-08:00

One of the key questions that comes up for anyone considering a vacation home rental in Las Vegas is, what to do about getting around? Is it better to just call for a taxi or limo when you need one, or to spring for a car rental and have the convienience of transportation any time you need it? Not surprisingly, the answer depends on why you are coming to Las Vegas.

For the most part, vacation home rentals tend to be near enough to the Strip so that either option is viable. Taxis are plentiful in Vegas, and it's easy enough to find limos of every size and capacity. So it's feasible for many visitors to use taxis and limos to get around during their stay.

This is an especially good option for groups, and for those who plan to endulge while out on the town. In fact, even if you do rent a car, hire a ride if you're going to drink. Las Vegas is like any other town with DUI enforcement, you do not want to get caught driving under the influence.

However for many, if not most, a rental car is going to be the best option to accompany your vacation home rental. Las Vegas is a town literally filled with entertainment and recreation options both on and off the Strip. Having a rental car means easy access to those destinations, whenever you are ready.

Keeping in mind that even the busiest casinos offer free valet parking, a car rental is also probably the best overall value. In the current economy, deals are plentiful. It's easy to justify the cost of a daily rental if you need any more than two trips anywhere in a single day.

The Real Cost Of Not Renting a Vacation Home

2010-02-10T16:34:00.000-08:00

We often ask customers who don't end up renting a vacation home, what did you do instead and why? Much of the time they say "We rented 4 hotel rooms instead, because they gave us such a good deal". And after all, who can blame them? Everybody wants to save money. So do we. However, one problem with this particular method of saving money is that is does not actually work.

Most people who opt for hotel rooms instead of a vacation rental, fail to consider the real cost. For example, once you choose a hotel room, you are automatically relegated to eating out for every single meal. When you add up the costs over the course of even a few days, times 4 couples, the additional cost for food alone can easily be $2000 or more.

Another cost that most people fail to consider is the cost of entertainment. In a vacation home, you have access to many entertainment activities that simply are not an option at the hotel. Of course, hotels in Las Vegas typical include a casino down stairs, and if you win, then it's no cost at all. But for actual free entertainment, nothing beats a vacation home rental.

The next time you consider the value of a vacation home versus a group of hotel rooms, remember that you'll be doing more than just sleeping. There are a whole host of factors effected by your decision. Those factors can have a dramatic effect on the value you receive for your investment.

By popular demand, we've brought back Castillo Ventana exclusively for WSOP lodging. 6 bdrms, 4.5 baths!

2010-02-09T14:23:00.000-08:00

We've been able to secure one of our most popular rentals exclusively for use during the Las Vegas World Series of Poker. Castillo Ventana has always been a customer favorite and we are happy to be able to make this home available again for WSOP lodging.

We expect this home to book immediately. It is a rare commodity to find everything this home has to offer and all this space for such an amazing price. Castillo Ventana can easily handle up to six participants, making the value unbeatable.

Housing for the US Open 10-Ball and BCAPL National Championship

2010-01-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

The US Open 10-Ball Championship and BCAPL National 8-Ball Championship are coming to Las Vegas this year. We are now booking of our properties to players and attendees.

Vacation home rentals are the best possible solution for your stay during the US Open 10-Ball Championship. Attendees of the 2010 US Open 10-Ball Championship in Las Vegas will enjoy some of the best vacation home choices we have ever offered.

This is especially true when you consider that our properties are professionally managed and maintained, and backed by 24 Hour Customer Service. We are unaware of any other vacation rental company in Las Vegas that offers dedicated 24 hour customer service.

We expect this event to be a complete sellout and recommend reserving your home as soon as you are sure about attending. We have a limited inventory of available homes due to competing events taking place in Las Vegas during the same period.

Double Down Your Efforts Before You Even Book A Vacation Rental

2010-01-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

We've been getting a number of calls from customers who have been scammed, or almost scammed, by some familiar tactics. And even though we know there are fraud artists everywhere, Las Vegas certainly seems to have it's fair share of them. We have created a page on our website to help potential vacation rental customers avoid some of the common come-ons, and how to protect yourself from vacation rental scams.

One of the easiest and best ways to find the good guys, and of course that includes us, is to do a little research before you book your home. There are many websites list Las Vegas vacation rental complaints as well as customer feedback and even full on reviews. Beyond that, a quick trip to the BBB website is usually an easy way to find out who is abusing the public.

Please be careful when you rent! These warnings are not a joke. Especially when times are hard, it is good to remember that otherwise honest people might be pushed to take chances. No matter what though, you do not need to be a victim of a real bad guy or an otherwise good guy. Take 5 minutes and be safe! You'll be glad you did, for the peace of mind and for the protection of your time and travel investment.

WSWA Convention and Expo Lodging and Accommodations

2010-01-12T18:03:00.000-08:00

The WSWA Convention and Expo happens in Las Vegas this year. This year's event will feature Sarah Palin, the former Governor of Alaska, Vice Presidential candidate and newly signed Fox News commentator. The WSWA convention has also been relocated from the Bally's/Paris Hotel Casinos to Caesars Palace.

We book more and more of our properties every year to WSWA Convention and Expo attendees. Vacation home rentals are a great solution for your stay during the WSWA Convention and Expo. Attendees of the 2010 WSWA Expo in Las Vegas will enjoy some of the best vacation home choices we have ever offered.

WSOP 2010 Vacation Home Rental Reservations Now Available

2010-01-12T15:18:00.000-08:00

Our vacation homes and condos are now available for booking as complete packages during the 2010 World Series of Poker, from Thursday May 27th 2010 thru July 17th, 2010. Be sure to check our WSOP Vacation Rentals for up to date availability and prices.

Vacation home rentals are the best possible solution for your stay during the WSOP. Players in the World Series of Poker tournament in Las Vegas will enjoy some of the best choices we have ever offered.
This is especially true when you consider that our properties are professionally managed and maintained, backed by 24 Hour Customer Service. We are unaware of any other vacation rental company in Las Vegas that offers dedicated 24 hour customer service.

Saving On Summer Vacation Home Rentals

2010-01-12T03:51:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again when we start getting inquiries for next summer. I know, I know, many of you are saying "But it's still so early!". True, but lots of folks like to plan and make arrangements early in order to get the best deals and selection.

We are already getting inquiries and reservations for late in the year. So with that in mind, here are a few money saving tips that will help you early birds, and everyone else, to get the most for your money.

Avoid Early Summer Dates
The rush starts on the last day of school. This is the time when the majority of travelers book their vacations. Therefore, it is also one of the more expensive times of the year.

If your schedule is flexible, consider making your way to Vegas during the latter part of the summer. Most people have already completed their Vegas vacations by then, and the prices and selection will be much better.

Avoid WSOP Tournament
Although dates have yet to be announced, the World Series of Poker is likely to be held in Las Vegas during the same period as before. Our best guess is that the tournament will run from May 29 through mid July.

Our vacation homes are likely to be filled with poker players during this period, and many renters will hold their homes open to keep them available for the longer tournament related bookings.

Flexible Dates Get the Best Deal
Most of our customers book homes for when they are coming to town. Most do not come to town just because a certain home happens to be available. However, if you can be flexible in that way, you can not only have more selection, you also have a better chance at a discount.

If you see a home you like, check the calender for open periods first. Then give us a call and tell us you can be flexible if it will save you money. Much of the time, it will.

Flexible Homes Get Good Deals Too
One way to save money is to allow us to pick a home for you. By allowing us the flexibility to choose the best option based on what is available when you're arriving, you can not only save a few dollars, you may actually end up with a more luxurious home than the one you would have originally chosen.

Last Minute Discounts
Many times it is possible to save money by booking within a few days of your arrival. Although this is not the best way for get the exact home you want, you might save a few dollars by checking for last minute openings. If you choose this method, just be sure you have a back up plan in case everything is booked.

Watch For Our Special Offers
Las Vegas Retreats frequently runs specials on certain homes and periods of time. Be sure you watch for discounts that might match your plans. You could save as much as 20% or more depending on the type of home you want and when you are coming to town.

Welcome!

2010-01-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Brand New Web Log for Las Vegas vacation home rentals, and how to make the most of off-Strip travels to Las Vegas.

We have been in the business of renting vacation homes and condos to Las Vegas travelers for many years now and have become one of the most successful vacation rental companies in Las Vegas. In that time, we have served thousands of visitors and learned much from them about having fun in Las Vegas when you aren't staying in a hotel or casino. That's what this blog is about!

We invite you to visit often and leave a comment, or send us your Las Vegas vacation suggestions and we will post them here as well.