Thursday, December 30, 2010

Common Mistakes Vacation Renters Make Shopping For Homes In Vegas

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!

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

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

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

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Comparing Hotel Value to Professional Vacation Rentals

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.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Real Time Las Vegas Vacation Rental Reservations

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.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Las Vegas Vacation Rentals And The Pool Heating Option

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.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Happy Thanksgiving to You!

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.

Monday, November 8, 2010

The Palm Castle Is Luxury At An Affordable Price!

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!

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Getting Around In Style From Your Vacation Home Rental

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!

Monday, November 1, 2010

A Sad State Of Affairs

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.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

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

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!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Bogus Awards Touting Bogus Quality

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

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!

Friday, October 22, 2010

A Vacation Home Rental That Was Built To Be One!


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!

Saturday, October 16, 2010

2011 World Series of Poker WSOP Vacation Rentals

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. ;)

Friday, October 15, 2010

Vacation Home Rentals On The Las Vegas Strip?


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!

Monday, October 11, 2010

Homes That Sleep Up To 30 People?

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.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Watch Out For Vacation Rental Companies With Multiple Personas

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.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Check The Southern Nevada Better Business Bureau

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...

Friday, October 1, 2010

Barry Manilow At Paris

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!

Friday, September 17, 2010

We've Joined The Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce

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.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Las Vegas Corporate Retreats

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.

Friday, September 3, 2010

As Easy As One - Two - Three!

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!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

The Family Friendly Solution to Las Vegas


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.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Sin City Vacation Rentals All New Website

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.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Hosting Las Vegas Events in Vacation Homes

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!

Thursday, May 27, 2010

We're Now Located on the Strip!

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! 

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Something really special on the way

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.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

What's a Little Privacy and Exclusivity Really Worth?

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!

Friday, April 23, 2010

Here's another clue for you all...


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!

Sunday, April 18, 2010

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

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!.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Big News Afoot at Las Vegas Retreats!

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!!!

Friday, February 26, 2010

City Center Having An Impact on Las Vegas

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.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Castillo Roya Available for WSOP

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.

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Should You Rent A Car With Your Vacation Home?

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.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

The Real Cost Of Not Renting a Vacation Home

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.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

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

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.

Friday, January 29, 2010

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

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.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Double Down Your Efforts Before You Even Book A Vacation Rental

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.

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

WSWA Convention and Expo Lodging and Accommodations

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

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

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.

Monday, January 11, 2010

Welcome!

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.