My husband came down with Covid during our stay and the hotel convenience store was charging $10 for single-serving bottles of DayQuil! $9.99 ATM fee at Bally's. Also, getting a voucher instead of your coins is so awful!
* Any TH-cam Vlogger video over 35 to 40 minutes is a ( waste ) of your time, and your time is valuable... * Any video over ( one hour ) is a total joke, and once again..., what a ( waste ) of your valuable time with family and friends or a hobby you love to do... * Have you ever watched and listened to a ( one hour ) video or more and said to yourself..., "Was it worth it ?" The majority of the time..., the answer is ( NO )... " Semper Fi " Mike in Montana :)
@@jeffdo9195 * "NO LIFE" is the correct answer... One-hour videos or more are simply ( ridiculous ) and a waste of your valuable time, including time with family and friends... * Thank you for the correct answer...; people that watch one-hour or more videos have... ( NO LIFE ). * Especially videos about nothing or non-sense..., except to gain more ( money ) from TH-cam... You are being ( used ) when you watch a video of one hour or more... * NOTE: If the Vlogger can't say it or show it within 35 minutes..., there is something wrong... * What a waste of time and a waste of your brain and less time with your ( family ), friends, or your favorite hobbies... * No one has to say ( hit the thumbs up button or Like button )..., if you have to watch a one hour or more video... Simply..., don't hit the ( Like ) button... :)
I’ll gladly tell you what I feel is the biggest rip off in Vegas and that’s paying for parking!! I was a valet on the strip at Bellagio for 19 years. When MGM started charging for valet and self parking it destroyed our income not to mention ran off all the locals and many tourists. No one should ever have to pay to park their vehicle when coming to your business to spend money!! I mean, do you have to pay to park at Home Depot?!. Thank you, Ruby!!
That's greed for ya, MGM piece of garbage of a ceo wanted more money instead of just being grateful for what he was making (which by the way, he makes about 400,000 PER MONTH, least from what I found out when I worked for MGM a few years back) them charging for parking really ruins the experience. However, it seems people are ok with paying it since the casino's really aren't having too many problems with tourists.
I go to Vegas every year for WSOP. I have a GREAT tip for you.........I stay for 11 days with a buddy and we both like 2 coffees in the morning. At Paris it is $9 for a coffee ! Two each is $36 + tip is $40 a day X 11 $440 JUST FOR MORNING COFFEE !! Take a coffee maker. I have a $20 coffee maker and my first stop is Walgreens for cream and sugar. Its FAR more convenient and you are over $400 better off ! And as for rip off hows this one......GUARANTEED #1 rip off story lol 3 years ago we stayed at the Rio as thats where the WSOP used to be. We had booked for 16 days but after 10 days we had both had enough and decided to leave early. So......we checked out 6 days early. No chance of a refund.....and guess what....THEY CHARGED US $50 EACH FOR A "CHECKING OUT EARLY FEE" hahahaha. Never mind the fact they had a paid for room that they could re rent out. I told them I would simply not check out. To which they replied "Then you will have to pay the resort fees even though we werent there !!
I miss the old days when Vegas was fun and cheap. No more cheap rooms or cheap food and they nickel and dime you to death. Resort fees, parking that used to be free...it never ends.
It's changed because idiots are willing to pay more. Casinos wouldn't charge these exorbitant price if no one would pay them. 6:5 Blackjack??? Yep, people still play these tables.
My wife and I sat through a Hilton time share presentation in Reno and I literally almost had to physically fight the manager when we left. But I did not leave without my free show tickets. Later that night at the show, we talked with other victims and they said they fled through the backdoors and fire doors when this steroid bulked manager go into it with me. He was not going to give us our free tickets and then he berated the poor saleslady in front of us for not selling the time share. What an ass.
I disagree about resort fees. As a Vegas visitor since the mid '90s, I think resort fees are the BIGGEST RIP-off. Just include them in the room fee instead of charging them when you arrive at the hotel. Also, charging visitors for parking is disgraceful! I can't deal with Vegas anymore! 😕
Why Hotels add RF's , main reason is, that most rooms are now booked on-line thru on-line hotel booking company's, and these company's buy large blocks of rooms at a time at a discount price, and then resell them to the public, so the Hotels are making less money per room,, but after the room has been sold, the hotels then add back a RF that makes up the difference, from the price that room was first sold to the booking company's for. And if the hotel sell a room direct to a customer, then the hotel sells it at full price , as if they would without having bookings company's sell the rooms.
I agree with you totally jhonnyboy. RF most of the time don’t give you much if anything in return for the fees that people either don’t want or need and it’s just another way for the hotels/casinos to make back money that they tried to sucker people into with low room prices until you factor in the RF. I don’t care what hotels cost in other parts of the country, this is LAS VEGAS where usually you spend very little time IN the room so why be forced into paying so much for them to begin with.
The parking fee was a way to recoup a little of the cash dumped into the new Football stadium. Yes it's a crock, even locals have to pay it with some notable exceptions. Yet another reason, locals won't go to the Strip.
100% agree...a resort fee on top of paying a premium price for a hotel because it is a resort. That's like adding a milk tax onto a carton of milk or tub of yoghurt.
It gets worse... some of the lower class casinos also charge the resort fee but eh, um, there's nothing resort about it. Okay, they have a pool but that's it... No spas, nothing to pamper you, the "gym" is a small room with a treadmill and some kind of weight machine. Hardly enough to be considered a resort... 😒
I really appreciate how straightforward you are! So many vloggers tend to drag their videos out with unnecessary fluff, but you cut right to the chase. That kind of clarity makes a big difference!
Here's a quick tip to get around Caesars wifi policy, that I've been using for a couple of years now. If you travel with a laptop (I know not everyone does), Windows 10 or 11 has a built in hotspot function that'll let you connect the laptop to the hotel wifi, then share that wifi connection among all your other devices. I've been connecting 6 devices now when I go to Vegas just because I can.
wow. this is one of the most informative, concise, helpful videos and should be MUST-SEE material for anyone going to Vegas. I wish this person did more of these videos for everything in life.
Some years ago, my wife and I caught a cab from the airport to the Excalibur, the guy drove all over the city, and his fee was $85. When we left, the cab fare was $8.50, that cabbie told us we got scammed and if we'd have had his name or number, the first guy would be heavily fined and probably lose his license. This was some 13 years ago and I'm still pissed! If someone offered me $85 to beat the guy's ass, I'd certainly take the contract.
If you make a great to-do of making a note of the cab number, the drivers permit, etc., most drivers get smart & charge you regular. I carry a GPS (smartphone GPS are OK, too) and ask the driver which terminal is this - then pretend to key it in. Every so often ask him the name of a street, and when he asks what you are doing you can say recording your journey - guaranteed to make them honest.| If a taxi driver says he has "No Change" just say you'll guard his cab whilst he makes change. Or tell to check his other pockets for change.
This is the correct answer. The wife insisted that we go, and of course we did. It was the most miserable vacation ever. You couldn't walk three feet without being accosted by the porn flyers, escorts, and street "artists." And theft is very real in Vegas. Not to mention how many fights we saw while we were there. We swore we'd never be back and we have kept that promise. It's just a nasty place to visit.
Looks like a 24/7 diabetes convention to me. I'm an ethical vegan so I just don't think I'll fit in at all, watching heifers face-fk'ing a buffet table, is NOT my idea of entertainment. But if you're a useless feeder and every member of your family is either overweight or clinically obese, then Vegas must be the center of the fn Universe for you. It reminds me of a Kid Rock cruise ship, we're talking heavy Republican vibes. So, I'm with you, thanks but fn no thanks.
Just fyi if you love nature, vegas is a great place to go. The red Rock National Park is breathtaking and there are tons of outdoor activities to do. Drive 20 minutes and enjoy a completely different type of vacation. Please don’t get discouraged by her video. She’s giving you tips for security which apply to anywhere you travel. I’ve traveled a lot in my life all over the world and most of these tips apply. It’s actually just common sense.
The reason it's a scam is because you are charged whether you use those services at the hotel or not. I'm being charged for stuff that I don't use, therefore it's a scam.
Fun fact: Most bars that offer "souvenir cups" for their frozen drinks in Vegas will refill them for 1/2 price (or significantly less than full price)...and they RARELY, if ever, change the cup designs. I save my cups and bring them with me every trip....ALL drinks end up being 1/2 price . I've been using the same cups from Numb, Fat Tuesdays and Rhumbar for over 5 years now.
She should have also told the potheads that smoking weed in the hotel rooms is against hotel policy and will usually get you a 500 to 2000 dollar cleaning fee added onto the price of your room. Weed is legal to purchase in Vegas, just can’t smoke it in restaurants, hotels, cabs, public spaces or any other place other than your OWN house.
@@rodneytrotter3725 that’s why people get vapes or edibles and there are signs all over telling you not to smoke weed in the rooms. It’s pretty easy to work around.
Great video, Ruby! You forgot to mention the snack setups in the hotel rooms. Grab a candy bar and it will cost you! Also, the countless panhandlers with their sob stories about how they're trying to get back home. The best way to avoid all of these rip-offs is to just stay home and watch your videos for free! LOL!
@@rossacohen314 Yep--people would open the mini fridge, drink items, then try to re-seal with water or other scams. By the time you pay for parking, resort fee, fridge fee, pool fee, you have had hundreds of dollars taken out of your wallet-----all that used to be free---and the buffet are no longer cheap, anything under $50 is crap, same you get at Harvest Buffet for $13 in your town.......two places I will NEVER set foot in again, Las Vegas, and California
My mom and her husband went to Vegas 2 or 3 times. The last time they went a bottle of water cost 3 bucks and there were extra fees for a number of things, they said they weren't going back. I thought I would like to go to Vegas just to check out the strip, then I realized the strip isn't the iconic thing I remember from movies I've seen from the 60s and 70s. I plan to go to Nevada to hike, camp, and, possibly, go backpacking, but Vegas may not be on the itinerary.
In my home, Denmark, the price shown is the Price to pay! No added Taxes or what ever found out of additions!! And a Restaurant is - obliged to put a "Menu with Prices", outside, before entering, and Tips are included in the price, as a rule! On the other side, Danish Waiters are being paid for their work from the Restaurant and not living from the Tips! And still providing Service in spite of that, as they of course also hope the Customers will return!!!!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 The only place in South Carolina that the price, plus tax is indicated up front is at the ABC stores. (The only place it's legal to purchase liquor) Seems like they could afford this pricing to all area's and not just drinkers! 🤗
@@happywanderer6307 Yes I find those absurd! The guests pay a lot to get there, gives local work and earnings, buys expensive food and sleeps expensively, so adding an "Insult" to that by a "Punishment Tax" on top!! I try to avoid places having those! Sadly I have spent the last many years Vacations in a Danish Built and managed housing Colony on Malta, and they do have this absurd Tax on Tourists! Finn
I lived and worked in Vegas from 1990 to 2005. It's sad to see that it's become a huge money black hole that sucks you dry at every corner. Certainly not like the old days where you could actually have a good time without being bled dry.
Absolutely.......back then, they gave you most of the "necessities" so you'd spend your $$$ gambling. But now, they take you to the cleaners for everything, & the show prices, which used to be so cheap, are through the roof. I found that the best idea is to stay at one of the "neighborhood" hotel/casinos-my favorite is Ellis Island. If I ever go back, that's where I will stay.
The problem with resort fees is that if they are mandatory, they should be included in the price in the first place. Because now, the price you see during booking, is not the price you end up paying. And THAT is the definition of a scam if you ask me.
Hotels can charge whatever they want to charge, and include whatever they want to in the price. But be honest and show the complete price! (It's like doing business with Mr. Haney!) The fact that hotels hide the resort fees shows that they know they're deceitful. Why do business with someone who's trying to deceive you?
Unfortunately, that’s not how business works…. They don’t have morals and are not not looking for your financial well-being… they are looking to make the Max revenue… take every dollar they can. And they will use marketing tactics, the old bait and switch, and any other dirty tactics to fool or force someone into giving them as much money as possible. Some companies are more cutthroat than others but that’s the main goal. Make money.
Not quite sure why I just watched a 10-minute long video about a city I have absolutely no desire on visiting, but hey! It was still informative with zero fluff! Awesome job! :)
Because it's not exciting. It's exhausting. Not just physically, but mentally. Having to be hyper alert each time you leave your room, is mentally draining. I grew up in San Diego and when I was in my twenties and thirties, it was always a weekend to look forward. YAY! I get to to to Vegas for the long weekend! When I retired and moved out of state, Vegas is closer but now it's "Geeze - don't make md go down there". @@GhostOfBugsy Then there's the cost. For a run-of-the-mill couple or single person, there are so many better ways and places to spend your money.
The ATM fees at Paris was $50 for $500 withdrawal and $95 for $1000 withdrawal this past September. There is a ATM inside the CVS between the two resorts from USAA and only charged $3.
AWESOME! Great production value, your B-roll is first class and your delivery is better than some the pro's that I work with. Awesome tips too! Thanks!
This literally felt like a friend giving me all the tips and hacks for a trip. Straight to the point , concise.. that was actually kind of bad ass. Thanks
1:00 If arriving early and want to shower/freshen up - ask your hotel if you can use the gym. Many large properties have shower areas in their gyms. Or option 2 - go to the spa and book a treatment, and that gives you access to the spa facilities (and showers). At least you are getting something for your money (instead of paying for early check in). Some spa's have day use fees that don't require treatment.
Lived in Vegas for 8 years and this is the first video of yours I’ve seen. You are 100% legit! Great content delivered quickly and entertainingly. You are definitely the best you-tube Vegas expert I’ve seen.
Thanks Ruby! Love your videos. We had a 25 year gap between visits and it gas definitely changed. However, i love Vegas and we are making it a yearly trip. We will be back in February. We stayed at the Flamingo and for some reason we ended every night at casino royale for a hotdog and cheap beer!!!! Keep up the great videos, you go girl!
It's true that the hotel charge plus the resort fee is a reasonable total when compared to hotels in other cities. What's annoying is that they don't just give you the straight number up front. You have to go half way through the booking process to find out what your room will actually cost. And then repeat the process for every other hotel you're looking at. And since the resort fee is often .ore than the room charge, it makes a huge difference.
Another great video Ruby! Years ago my sister & I would visit Vegas 1-2 times a year and we had a travel blog full of advice. The one piece of advice at the top of our list was Nothing is 'FREE' in Vegas. I'm not sure if the malls still have those sales people who linger halfway out of a store front or by a kiosk in the middle , the ones who want to clean your ring, ask you about your current face cream, hand cream etc., AVOID them too!
Beware the skin care people! They totally rush you in the mall and plunk you down for a free demonstration. Then you ask price? Ridiculous. Then they want you to MLM for them. I walked.
Ohhh they do! We just got back from Vegas yesterday. Basically if anyone approaches you for anything (free tickets, photo ops, discount coupons, etc.), run in the other direction.
Love your straightforwardness. No BS. Short, sweet and simple. To the points. Great. This is always the best. Don’t sugar coat it. Agree with so much you said here. Pretty much everything there will be tourist prices. Which of course if higher than normal. Rip off time! Knowing Vegas like you do will help with this. The do’s and don’t’s. It’s sad how humans in general just will do anything for money. How low they will go. For their survival.
Very well done! I’m Old School, & I figured I’d never go back- what w all the crap going on...but your video hit something...I’m kinda thinking of it now. Lol
Well done. I go to Vegas a lot and you really honed in quickly on the things to watch out for on your visit. Not only did you point out the scam, you frequently offered a solution. Good on you.
It's really sad to see what has become of Vegas. Back in the 1980s and 90s it was a hell of alot of fun! It was about gambling, shows, concerts with inexpensive rooms and dining. The casinos made money and visitors enjoyed themselves. Since then it appears they changed their business model. Its never been the same.
I've been to Vegas half a dozen times over the past 10 years or so. The change during those 10 years has been drastic and not in a good way. It feels the attitude of Vegas commerce is no longer to entertain people but to take as much of their money as legally possible.
It used to be so much fun to go to Vegas. The last time I was there was 2019 and it was utterly depressing. The mega corporations sucked all the fun out of it.
I remember those days, glad I got to experience before they messed it up. When describing it now, the word I keep coming back to is “hollow”. I feel like I have to be on guard from the money vacuums at all times
@@briangallagher710 absolutely. I remember the days when you were at a craps or blackjack table, and the waitress would have you swimming in booze. Now you're lucky to get anything. I remember when you could get a nice breakfast of steak and eggs with hash browns and coffee for $2.99. You could also get a prime rib dinner for $5.99. You also got a nice tender cut of meat too.
Great content. Uber and Lyft has really made it much easier to get around without feeling like your getting scammed in LV. The Walgreens and CVS stores coming to the strip was gold! It made it so easy getting affordable bottles of alcohol and water to your room and water is a must in the room. Before the drugstores you just had ABC stores here and there.
CVS and Walgreens are expensive for me, I found a very cheap store at Flamingo Rd and linq street 💕 it's almost empty (no lines) and great service 24 hours
@@ultraalvafa4962 The strip Walgreens and CVS are definitely more expensive than your normal neighborhood Walgreens or CVS. However, they offer you the convenience of everything you need at a more reasonable price.
@@kaozzzzzzzzz1 Stage Door, next to Batista Italian restaurant... We found water, beers and snacks more cheap than the average price (vs CVS and Walgreens) 🙃🤭
Just make sure to check your cc statement often after you use Uber or Lyft In Vegas. They pulled $500 from my account for a ride several weeks after I went there. Obviously I was able to get it back but it still sucked.
The signed CD scam totally got me. He wanted $20 for the signed CD, I pulled out a 10 and told him not enough. He grabbed the 10 AND the CD then disappeared. I felt like a fool.
that happened to me in Cali, dude said listen to the cd so i did. i like the beat etc. Then he said 20$ and tried to give it back. he said no refund. Dude i didnt pay so i put it on the ground and walked away. he then tried following me
That's why I don't take anything from any body on the strip period.... the only one who gets my money is the people selling the light up crowns... ( my ol lady loves them) anything else I immediately say nah I'm good not interested and keep walking... especially the damn time share people
lol damn anglos have no balls as a tall mexican when i went to the strip this african guy tried the cd thing with me but he had dreads and it was like stoner music and then said it was 25 bucks so i gave it back and he wouldnt grab it so i let it fall on the floor and he tried to look like he was going to fight me but he backed off
We saw those in LA on Venice beach and in Vegas too - just walked pass them. They try to talk to u - just keep walking. Did not have any problem. Maybe because we are older
Always love the tips! I didn’t know about the MGM Stay Well Rooms - we said if we went back, we wanted to stay at MGM for the monorail - definitely going to look into the stay well rooms!
I disagree, resort fees are a scam AND a rip-off. Staffing and maintaining a pool is a fixed hotel cost traditionally included in the room rate. No one, in this day and age, uses a hotel room phone to make local calls. I haven’t seen a newspaper included with a hotel stay in a few years: Monte Carlo used to have them available near the elevators on each floor, haven’t seen them since MC was changed into Park MGM. I especially hate them because they will become a trend in other businesses. Restaurants are already trying to tack on various fees.
Just like during Covid when all the hairdressers were charging more money because they had to disinfect everything in between clients! I thought they were supposed to do that anyway
I believe "resort fees" are a complete scam, sorry. One should pay a room rate and if extras cost more, charge for what is used, not what isn't. It's a money grab, tacked on to make people think room rates are lower than they actually are. At the very least !!! ALL fees, including city and state taxes need to be listed clearly and up front PRIOR too booking.
It’s so sad!!!! We used to go to Vegas a lot but it has gotten so expensive over the last few years. It’s ridiculous. Everything is overpriced now. Even went into Walgreens and they were charging $15 for a 3oz bottle of sunscreen!! My local Walgreens charges $5 for the same product.
As to parking, I live in LV area, but I rarely go to the Strip. My sister was in town for a conference, so I met up with her mid-week at the Venetian. I drove down to the Venetian but before I parked, I asked the attendant if the hotel gave free or discounted parking to locals. The answer was yes, but only for 3 hours and only during certain times. Sometimes it pays to ask.
The absolute worst thing about resort fees are they are hidden and you don’t know what the amounts are from your booking! I believe there needs to be legislation that mandates all hotels to disclose the exact price that you will pay at the front desk, WHEN YOU BOOK the reservation. Now they are changing the name of these fees in Hawaii to “Check Out Cleaning Fee” and “Reservation Fee”. The hotels have gone way too far with hiding fees until you check out which should be illegal for anything you buy.
@@otrebla8944 I was saying when you book the reservation. I even capitalized WHEN YOU BOOK. It is not stated in the reservation. Hotels have different resort fees and they change by season and whether certain activities are open. Trust me, I’ve worked for hotels for many years and know the business.
@@PJ33333 I know what you said. And what I am saying is that in Vegas, the resort fees are made known and clear WHEN YOU BOOK. I've been to Vegas. They don't hide the resort (extort) fees.
@@otrebla8944 When you book an airline ticket, do they charge you differently when you get off the plane? No, the price you pay on the website is the same that you end up with.
@@PJ33333 are we talking about hotels or airlines? My comments were clear: Vegas hotels CLEARLY state their resort fees. Don't believe me if you don't want to.
Cool video Ruby! Thanks for sharing this! My only comment is on the resort fees and taxes - I think the government should pass a law that forces all hotels to show the total cost per night and not hide the fees and taxes. At least that would level the playing field.
Its a hidden discount for people that get them removed. As Ruby said -- its making up the price differences in places without the facilities. So its like a permanent discount once you hit that tier that they are removed. As long as they are disclosed at booking, you shouldn't be surprised by it at the hotel desk.
@@redwolfexr Are you the one guy who thinks this is OK? I get full comps so I really don't care... Why not show the total cost when you search so you can make the best decision based on your budget. If everyone had to do it, it would be fair...
Deliberately undersupplying the hotel room. For example, checked into the Luxor a few years ago. There were only two pillows on our bed. No extra pillow in the closet. Had to call staff to bring a couple more pillows. The staff person hung around chatting away until we realized they wanted a tip. Next, our TV didn't seem to be working. Had to call staff. Staff person comes in and shows us that we had to flip a switch on the wall on order to get the TV to work. Starts chatting us up and doesn't leave the room until tipped. Not enough towels in the bathroom...You get the picture.
@@Breeze-gd8wj Be careful saying that. Else a bunch of americans will come after you defending how important it is to tip and get yourself ripped off at every place you visit so that the business owners don't have to pay their employees.
I am so glad that I experienced Las Vegas before all of these rip-offs and scams began. Back in the 80's and 90's there were no resort fees, parking fees, cheaper buffets, cheaper hotel prices and great deals for players club members.
Hate to break it to you, but if you gamble, Vegas has always and will always be a ripoff. Other than a couple of table games, like Hold 'Em, the entire enterprise is mathematically designed to part you from your money.
@user-db6pt7vr3l The more you play, the more you lose. Very simple formula. Saying "but they do pay out" is just a way to excuse one's inability _not_ to make terrible decisions. I'm truly sorry if you've found yourself in that awfully ignorant place.
@@toasternfriends3329 Last week put a 100 bill in my local dollar slot machine, hit max bet and won $2400 on the second spin. Took my money and went home. Yes, it's an awful place I've found myself in. LOL.
Very awesome tips, thank you for taking the time to educate the world about this! Never in a million years would I have thought of the things you mentioned as scams! Some were obvious, like the shady looking pot shops but others were not so obvious.
These are excellent tips Ruby. One I would like to add is in relation to the stores inside the Showcase Mall located across from New York New York & Park MGM. Do not shop at the stores inside the Showcase Mall with the exception of the Target (for cheap snacks & drinks compared to casino gift shops) & M&M's World. Many of them charge $5-30 extra for items simply because they are located on the Strip and can get away with it. I remember on my trip to Vegas wanting to buy a pair of white & black Adidas Superstar sneakers at the Adidas store thinking they were $90 (the base price). Instead they were $120 & decided to go to the Adidas store at Vegas Premium Outlets (North) to buy them and they were actually 40% off the $90 which is a great deal in my view.
Fantastic video. I've never been, but have always wanted to go just to see the different architecture / themes of the casinos. You really covered a tremendous amount of different items. Happy Trails to you Ruby! Thank you for the informative, fun video!
For resort fees to not be a scam, they need to be included in your rate. I think properties use resort fees to avoid taxes, but from a consumer perspective they feel sneaky and like a cash grab.
Totally agree, I got stuck with resort fees of half the price of my hotel stay at the Hampton Inn in Puerto Rico. The hotel perhaps one of the smallest in the area, but made me pay for whatever resort they had elsewhere.
Definitely agree with you that resort fees are bs but I promise you they are not for tax reasons that they charge it after. The hotel stays pays tax on all revenue generated, which includes resort fees.
You can survive cheaply in Las Vegas if you want to. I went there for 2 days with a mate a few years ago. We booked one room online at Harrahs Hotel very cheaply that also included the buffet breakfast. We used the room only to shower and change when required. We also made sure to eat as much as we could at the buffet each morning and then only ate snacks like bagels throughout the day. I found a 1 cent poker machine at the Luxor where you could drink free beer as long as you were gambling. I played one line at a time and drank quickly. We didn't sleep for 48 hours and had a great time.
Hi Ruby my wife & I have just returned home to the UK after spending 6 nights in Vegas. And would like to thank you for your informative videos which really helped us throughout our stay. Oh and we stayed at the Palazzo which we loved as well as the The Bellagio & Mandalay Bay. Keep up the great work 👍🏻
Ruby - I'm glad you mentioned avoiding "handouts" and I don't take anything handed out as a personal policy. Those free CD guys can be rough though. I am usually good about avoiding people on the strip, but recently a crew of these guys was set up so that I'd walk through them, then they quickly surrounded me, forced a CD in my hand, and then wanted a "cash donation." I got away from them eventually but it was obnoxiously difficult to do so (after claiming I had no cash). Keep in mind they also will ask for Venmo but I'd be careful using digital payments to what are essentially scammers as then they have your account info or convince you to send more than you should. Pleading ignorance about Venmo was a smart move. They later tried to get me again while I was playing a slot machine further down the strip. Luckily they weren't there long, I am sure security would have kicked them out. Just another "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" I guess.
I find that as soon as you glance at them, make eye contact or even speak to you they won't leave you alone. The best thing is to keep walking and ignore them. I think I'm a pro at it here in the UK and when I go abroad.
Ruby omg 1M views!!! Congratulations. And your subscriber count is way up there!! You’re doing it!! I started following you when you had less than 30k subs. Been watching for a while. You helped me prep for my Vegas wedding. Congratulations girl 👏❤️
I haven't been to Vegas in many years. My wife and I were thinking of going there for a few days sometime in the next month or so. After seeing this video and the comments, we have decided to skip Vegas and go somewhere else.
I've noticed the coin scam (not paying out the change on the ticket redemption machines) the last couple of years going to Vegas. That one is so disgusting especially since there is often a line at the cashier, so now I have to wait in a line to get my 15 cents! The gaming board should put an end to that scam immediately!
Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately, I play slots and table games so I am forced to cash tickets out at cashier. They started that policy at my local place on the East Coast add if you are a frequent gambler, it adds up. Terrible policy. Hopefully there is some oversight.
Playing the slots at Mirage, we cashed out our tickets of 15 cents, 30 cents, etc, then when we went to another slot machine, along with our $20, we'd put in those change tickets too. If you're leaving Vegas, and you play a slot and are left with less than a dollar, leave it in, as a kind of 'pay if forward' surprise for the next person. Some casinos even have boxes labelled Humane Society, Children's Aid society, Cancer society, where you put your tickets in. Then the money on the tickets is added up, and given to that particular charity.
My first time in Vegas I bought one of those CD’s that people on the street were selling because he marketed it as a “demo” tape and I wanted to support him. I paid him $10 for it. When I flew home and put the CD into my computer, it asked me if I’d like to burn something to the CD. I BOUGHT A BLANK CD FOR $10!!! 🤣🤣🤣
Yea some are dishonest. True artist trying to get a foothold with potential fans are harmed by these scrams. My son purchased a rapper’s cd for five dollars. Quality sound and lyrics - we hope he makes it.
Ha ha! that happened to me in Veradero, Cuba. Nice guy who was selling CDs. Chatted him up and everything. Turned out it was a blank CD when I came home. lol
Great video! Awesome. Straight to the point. Yes, I did the unfortunate mistake to buy something at the convenience store. I bought like 3 items and the total was around 20 dollars 💸 when you can easily get it at a CVS for $5.
My problem with Resort Fees is the blatant nature of the grift. Just build the fee into the room quote and be done with it. Don’t try to convince guests they are getting a bargain $80 Mid-strip room during the week when it’s actually costing you double once resort fees and taxes are added. The only redeeming value of the resort fee is the use of the pool, which was never considered an extra until the resorts decided to strong arm their loyal and PAYING customers. In the winter most of the pools are closed, so what are you really getting for the $50 per day fee when you stay on the Strip in February?
That's exactly why they do it, to sound cheaper. It's like when items are priced "$1.99, $19.99"...etc. It seems cheaper but it's just how they get you to spend a lot of money while the quote sounds cheap.
its the Internet! the internet is great but its created these advertising/price wars on all the online travel sites, and they all want their prices to seem lower than they actually are. Airlines the same way with all the extra bag fees, etc. I freaking hate it
A few years ago the wife and I were walking through the Venetian and very nice middle aged lady approached us with what I thought was a tired old line of "Are you staying in Vegas until tomorrow?". I smelled scam and kept walking but the wife talked to her, I was in the distance scowling. Come to find out her husband was sick and they were going back to LA that night and she had two tickets to Blue Man Group and just gave them to the wife. Even after my walk off performance, the wife still took me to the show! LOL
The scam that’s most common when you fly in is this: taxi or Uber drivers both do this. If you are staying on the strip your driver will loop you completely around the airport and take the freeway. That will double or more the fee it should cost you. Always, always tell the driver to take you down Paradise blvd. It’s a straight shot to the hotels right off the airport exit road. They may even ask you something like “ hey! You wanna get there the fast way?”. It only means you’re driving faster on the 15 and it’s gonna gonna be a much longer distance.
That is not the case with cabs anymore. They do flat rates from the airport and to the airport. 3 zones. 1 zone $22, 2 $26, 3 $30. She is not right about Uber and lift prices compared to cabs. Lately uber and lift are in average not less expensive on the strip, plus Uber and lift change their prices based in how busy Vegas is. Resort fees, parking, drinks, any most of things she said, are not "rip of", or scames. You see the price and it is your choice to bay. Vegas is very expensive.
Every time I go to vegas if I use a taxi I always tell them to take paradise from the airport. My boyfriend grew up there and still has family we visit so I've learned my way around
@@radesaran8527 You are right in that its your choice to pay, but if it is much cheaper elsewhere on the strip why not take the information and avoid being ripped off. These place do have the right to charge what they want, that doesn't mean they are not scamming you.
Uber drivers cannot do this. From the time you book the app maps a route and you are given a price. That price doesn't go up unless YOU change the destination or add a stop. If it somehow does, you complain to Uber/Lyft and you'll get the entire fare refunded. Taxis can try this scam, Ubers cannot. (Note: another commenter says even Taxis can't anymore. I'm not sure, I've used exclusively rideshare in Vegas for many years now). The story about the scam was correct though, it's an old one. They take the old bridge and highway which is way longer if you're on the main strip, especially the southern part like by Mandalay/Luxur/Excalibur/MGM Grand.
I always have a Mercedes suv limo pick me up from the Airport. I'm not aware of hidden fees! I travel to Vegas once a year and spend roughly 25 grand on my 4 day trip
Your videos are all so well done. Great information, great shots and well edited. TH-camrs could learn a lot from you. Keep up the good work, while we watch your numbers soar. Best regards.
One more to add: Visit Vegas during the week (Mon-Thurs) and stay away on the weekends if you’re looking for the best hotel prices in town. When the weekend hits and everyone from Phoenix, Utah, and SoCal are in town, hotel prices cost an arm and a leg.
well when you do it online they tell you the price before you pay includes tax and fees they claim your getting wi fi included and other but its for each day but they may reduce the rate and then add it on so its not as high
Paying Resort Fees and still not being able to use all the facilities, The Strat Hotel charge to go up the tower to the viewing deck. Surely they could make an hour in the morning when it’s free for the residents of the hotel to go up there.
I think it’s because those fees actually help the local Vegas economy and fund their new raiders stadium. And as you can see, people are still paying regardless because it’s Vegas.
It's marketing 101. The actual night rate is split in two, as patrons are more likely to book a $70 a night hotel + $35 resort fee, than a hotel charging $105 upfront. What she said is true.. We know these fees are there.
Your videos are always entertaining, helpful, or both. Love your stuff!! Thank you both for all of the time and effort you put into making them...I know it takes work.
One of the more useful videos I have seen in a while. Short, sweet and to the point. I will most likely never travel to Las Vegas as I live in South Africa and the rand/dollar exchange rate is ridiculous. However I appreciate how this could help others.
Very helpful, as always! Regarding ATMs - check your bank apps, since I'm able to use no-fee 🏧 at various places like Walgreens, CVS, and monorail stations.
Nice video. Years ago the casinos needed to lure people in with cheap food and drinks. Due to the popularity of Las Vegas many casinos feel like they can just rip you off at every turn. They figured out that many younger guests at the hotels don't gamble so now they charge like $17 or more for a mixed drink at the pool. Have 3 drinks that's $51 or more before tip! Here are a few more scams: 1) If you go to the Starbucks at Caesars Palace near the Augustus Tower (where the really nice rooms are) they charge you about $12 for a grande coffee and a pumpkin bread. That's before tip. In Los Angeles, that is more like $7. 2) Go order chicken wings in Las Vegas (or anywhere else now) some places charge almost $19 for 10 wings. They are not made of gold! They are just chicken wings. Not even the best part of the chicken (the breast). 3) Even a burger and fries can cost you in Las Vegas. I think the average price at many places is about $17.99. I went to Wahlburgers at the Morongo casino in California. I ordered a double burger, fries and a soda. It cost me $27. At least the food was excellent.
At MGM Grand, if you want shade of any kind, will cost you. A number of years ago, at the Wynn, we found a shady corner by the adult pool in the back. The next year, we went to our spot only to discover they'd installed more cabanas - no more "free shade." That's when we found another hotel.
I remember when they built the Vdara. It had a concave shape to it with reflecting windows. In the summer, the windows of the hotel would focus the sunlight which would blaze across the pool deck, melting drink glasses. It was dangerous. They had to replace all those windows with windows that didn't reflect the sunlight. They called it the "Vdara Death Ray". It was very funny.
Ruby - you are On Point with this video! The table info & wifi info was excellent as well. We’ve been coming yearly to Vegas for over 15 years but now we’re bringing newbie’s with us in 2023 - I’m going to make them watch this video plus your cheap eats and drinks videos! We’ll be spending lots of time together but also time apart because everyone needs their own space/time - your videos - especially this one - will be so helpful to them and I won’t sound like I’m “parenting” them through Vegas! 🤣🤣🤣 Keep up the amazing work!
I just took my wife to Las Vegas for her 30th birthday and it was honestly not a great experience because everything was so expensive and everybody was trying to rip you off at every opportunity moment. The only thing that was worth it was the Grand Canyon tour.
I only go to Vegas for things like conventions anyway, so much of the time is spent in the event hall, away from many of these scam sources. You still gotta be wary, but its a little more enjoyable an experience, I dare say.
I’ve been to Vegas back in the 90s it was awesome I went again in like 2018 it was awful maybe it was 2016 anyway it was much different. It was really expensive no free buffets anymore. The gambling machines and minimum bets were all outrageous. it was just not very fine but I heard that if you go to old Dagus on Fremont Street, it’s still a good time it’s more like the Vegas of the 90s and the 80s . We didn’t even see any exotic sports cars when I went in the 90s I seen all kinds of Ferraris Lamborghinis and special edition Corvettes. When I went back in 2016 or whatever nothing you see us.
Oh yeah we went on that tour too. It was winter the ride there in the bus is 2 lane road and the bus driver is flying around all the crazy blind hills and turns. We were all scared to death. It was freezing at the Canyon but the air was crystal clean so got some good photo's. Best part of the Vegas trip really.
@@marshallstacy6243 We are from Florida and it was not very cold in vegas so stupidly did not bring jackets got to the Canyon and wow it was like 18 degree's. Couldn't stand to be outside long so did not go anywhere.
My tip: beware of "Starbucks" inside of casinos. They're just a Starbucks-branded casino store and the prices are like 200% higher than a real Starbucks. Total scam.
haha this for sure. I've worked in a few casinos that had a Starbucks in them. They're employees of the casino selling Starbucks products, but at whatever cost the casino chooses to mark them up at.
Just keep in mind, casinos weren't built so people could walk out with money. Back when the syndicate ran the Vegas casinos you could expect respect and hospitality as long as you played the games straight. After the corporate takeovers Vegas became the rip-off capitol of the world.
So you’d get a better experience from a “made” guy if you acted like you had some manners than from a so-called legitimate businessman? I don’t doubt it, it’s just…ironical as hell 😳🫣🫣🫣
@@tonyjones1560 It's true, I worked for the Fretita fam years ago; very nice folks as they measure you for concrete boots... Should be a movie called "Escape from Vegas"..! 😁
@@stevebruce1078 Yikes! I meant for the ordinary citizen who could had enough self control to have a good time without getting into the deep end of the pool…and wearing concrete boots! The stories you must have, though🫣🤣😎
I have to disagree with resort fees. We stayed in Vegas twice during Covid. EVERYTHING was closed, pools, gym, etc AND they still collected fees for amenities that were not offered 😡😡😡
Nice job Ruby. Even for someone like me who flys in, gets the rental and immediately drives out of town to the canyons etc. You are smart and sweet. Keep up the good work!
Fantastic video, SO well edited! Another huge scam/annoyance is the following: those aggressive sales people who hawk women in to put serum around their eyes to 'lift' them, lol. They are relentless. They're in the major hotels near the clothing and other retail shops, and call out to you whilst holding a small gift bag 4 u. Do not fall for it, waste of time, just chemicals.My husband and I have come out to Vegas twice yearly for trade show, and that show requires you to stay at Venetian/Palazzo and haven't encountered any problems, typically, checking in early, no extra fees. We're not gamblers, but somehow we've escaped having to pay a fee for that perk. I guess it's our history of staying? Or bc of said trade show? Dunno, but just wanted to give u our perspective. You're a natural on camera!
Very informative video. One scam I would add is taxi/Uber drivers asking if you want to stop by a liquor store on your way to your hotel after picking you up from the airport. They will take you to an overpriced store that they get a kickback from, and if you are riding with Uber or Lyft, they will consider that to be a second trip and charge you accordingly without telling you.
Lift and Uber have everything shown on the app and if the driver adds on a stop you can contact customer service and they will change the price you were charged after the driver took a detour to the price you were quoted. I’m a local and we took an Uber from up by the base down to the Galleria mall which is directly south of us. The driver went west for 12 miles out of the way before going back towards the mall, and we were charged 59 dollars when we were quoted 15. A contact to Uber and our fee was changed when we reported him taking a longer route. It’s against their policy to take a long way around to get somewhere.
What do you think is the biggest rip-off in Las Vegas?
$20.00 for a pack of Marlboros? I was told that I was, "Paying for the 'experience.'"
"Celebrity Chef" restaurants.
Your food is prepared by "regular chefs" just like the other restaurants and you pay a premium.
My husband came down with Covid during our stay and the hotel convenience store was charging $10 for single-serving bottles of DayQuil! $9.99 ATM fee at Bally's. Also, getting a voucher instead of your coins is so awful!
Cabs are the biggest rip off in LV 🤬
First trip to Vegas two weeks from now thank you for teaching us so much
I like the fact that you get to the point quickly! So many vloggers are mostly bs & string there videos out way too long! I appreciate it.
That is by far my biggest complaint of many TH-camrs.
Because longer the video and if people watch it through they get paid more
* Any TH-cam Vlogger video over 35 to 40 minutes is a ( waste ) of your time, and your time is valuable... * Any video over ( one hour ) is a total joke, and once again..., what a ( waste ) of your valuable time with family and friends or a hobby you love to do... * Have you ever watched and listened to a ( one hour ) video or more and said to yourself..., "Was it worth it ?" The majority of the time..., the answer is ( NO )... " Semper Fi " Mike in Montana :)
@@seanobrien2306 kids do rhat no problem up all nite and no life
@@jeffdo9195 * "NO LIFE" is the correct answer... One-hour videos or more are simply ( ridiculous ) and a waste of your valuable time, including time with family and friends... * Thank you for the correct answer...; people that watch one-hour or more videos have... ( NO LIFE ). * Especially videos about nothing or non-sense..., except to gain more ( money ) from TH-cam... You are being ( used ) when you watch a video of one hour or more... * NOTE: If the Vlogger can't say it or show it within 35 minutes..., there is something wrong... * What a waste of time and a waste of your brain and less time with your ( family ), friends, or your favorite hobbies... * No one has to say ( hit the thumbs up button or Like button )..., if you have to watch a one hour or more video... Simply..., don't hit the ( Like ) button... :)
I ABSOLUTELY love how you get to the point. 20 scams in less then 11 min.
But she missed the BIGGEST Scam,
which happens to be this video !!!
@@JosephKulik2016 Ur mom
🔥🔥🔥🔥🏢 only 140* during the day and 30 * f during the night , F***K Lost Vegas ♦️♦️♦️
@@JosephKulik2016 😞😞
Than*, idiot
I’ll gladly tell you what I feel is the biggest rip off in Vegas and that’s paying for parking!! I was a valet on the strip at Bellagio for 19 years. When MGM started charging for valet and self parking it destroyed our income not to mention ran off all the locals and many tourists. No one should ever have to pay to park their vehicle when coming to your business to spend money!! I mean, do you have to pay to park at Home Depot?!. Thank you, Ruby!!
Yep, Mom lived in Henderson from 98 til 2018.... They were livid when this crap started...
Went to Bellagio in 2010 y 2011 . Parking was free, when the guy brought me my car I used to give him 2/3 dollars and they were always happy .
We stopped patronizing MGM resorts when they implemented the parking fees.
parking should be be free for hotel guests. I'm a reward member, I hate going to Bellagio because people go there for free garden.
That's greed for ya, MGM piece of garbage of a ceo wanted more money instead of just being grateful for what he was making (which by the way, he makes about 400,000 PER MONTH, least from what I found out when I worked for MGM a few years back) them charging for parking really ruins the experience. However, it seems people are ok with paying it since the casino's really aren't having too many problems with tourists.
I go to Vegas every year for WSOP. I have a GREAT tip for you.........I stay for 11 days with a buddy and we both like 2 coffees in the morning. At Paris it is $9 for a coffee ! Two each is $36 + tip is $40 a day X 11 $440 JUST FOR MORNING COFFEE !! Take a coffee maker. I have a $20 coffee maker and my first stop is Walgreens for cream and sugar. Its FAR more convenient and you are over $400 better off !
And as for rip off hows this one......GUARANTEED #1 rip off story lol
3 years ago we stayed at the Rio as thats where the WSOP used to be. We had booked for 16 days but after 10 days we had both had enough and decided to leave early. So......we checked out 6 days early. No chance of a refund.....and guess what....THEY CHARGED US $50 EACH FOR A "CHECKING OUT EARLY FEE" hahahaha. Never mind the fact they had a paid for room that they could re rent out. I told them I would simply not check out. To which they replied "Then you will have to pay the resort fees even though we werent there !!
Goodbye Rio WSOP! Will miss you...not really! Coffee at Paris Horseshoe from now on
I miss the old days when Vegas was fun and cheap. No more cheap rooms or cheap food and they nickel and dime you to death. Resort fees, parking that used to be free...it never ends.
U forgot the security deposit per night smh
It's not nickel and dime.....
It's $20 every time you turn around.
Exactly! Great deal on the room. BUT the so called "Resort Fee" is $40" on top of the quoted price. What a dishonest scam!
It's changed because idiots are willing to pay more. Casinos wouldn't charge these exorbitant price if no one would pay them.
6:5 Blackjack??? Yep, people still play these tables.
It's funny, but Vegas was a better place when the mob ran it.
If you've ever sat through a time-share presentation, you will understand how the police get people to sign confessions.
No kidding.
I set a timer on my phone for 1 hour and refused to turn it off after the hour I promised them was up
@@ryanv3751 That's a good move. It would be even better if you set the alarm to sound like a police siren; then THEY'd scatter!
My wife and I sat through a Hilton time share presentation in Reno and I literally almost had to physically fight the manager when we left. But I did not leave without my free show tickets. Later that night at the show, we talked with other victims and they said they fled through the backdoors and fire doors when this steroid bulked manager go into it with me. He was not going to give us our free tickets and then he berated the poor saleslady in front of us for not selling the time share. What an ass.
@@richardmagnuson2131 That's about as bad a story as I've ever heard. Good for you for not leaving without your premium.
I disagree about resort fees. As a Vegas visitor since the mid '90s, I think resort fees are the BIGGEST RIP-off. Just include them in the room fee instead of charging them when you arrive at the hotel. Also, charging visitors for parking is disgraceful! I can't deal with Vegas anymore! 😕
Why Hotels add RF's , main reason is, that most rooms are now booked on-line thru on-line hotel booking company's, and these company's buy large blocks of rooms at a time at a discount price, and then resell them to the public, so the Hotels are making less money per room,, but after the room has been sold, the hotels then add back a RF that makes up the difference, from the price that room was first sold to the booking company's for. And if the hotel sell a room direct to a customer, then the hotel sells it at full price , as if they would without having bookings company's sell the rooms.
I agree with you totally jhonnyboy. RF most of the time don’t give you much if anything in return for the fees that people either don’t want or need and it’s just another way for the hotels/casinos to make back money that they tried to sucker people into with low room prices until you factor in the RF. I don’t care what hotels cost in other parts of the country, this is LAS VEGAS where usually you spend very little time IN the room so why be forced into paying so much for them to begin with.
The parking fee was a way to recoup a little of the cash dumped into the new Football stadium. Yes it's a crock, even locals have to pay it with some notable exceptions. Yet another reason, locals won't go to the Strip.
100% agree...a resort fee on top of paying a premium price for a hotel because it is a resort. That's like adding a milk tax onto a carton of milk or tub of yoghurt.
It gets worse... some of the lower class casinos also charge the resort fee but eh, um, there's nothing resort about it. Okay, they have a pool but that's it... No spas, nothing to pamper you, the "gym" is a small room with a treadmill and some kind of weight machine. Hardly enough to be considered a resort... 😒
I really appreciate how straightforward you are! So many vloggers tend to drag their videos out with unnecessary fluff, but you cut right to the chase. That kind of clarity makes a big difference!
Here's a quick tip to get around Caesars wifi policy, that I've been using for a couple of years now. If you travel with a laptop (I know not everyone does), Windows 10 or 11 has a built in hotspot function that'll let you connect the laptop to the hotel wifi, then share that wifi connection among all your other devices. I've been connecting 6 devices now when I go to Vegas just because I can.
200 IQ Pro Gamer Move!
Wow, carrying 7 WIFI devices around on holiday must be a nightmare on it's own!
I love it! Stick it to the Man.
wow. this is one of the most informative, concise, helpful videos and should be MUST-SEE material for anyone going to Vegas. I wish this person did more of these videos for everything in life.
Some years ago, my wife and I caught a cab from the airport to the Excalibur, the guy drove all over the city, and his fee was $85. When we left, the cab fare was $8.50, that cabbie told us we got scammed and if we'd have had his name or number, the first guy would be heavily fined and probably lose his license. This was some 13 years ago and I'm still pissed! If someone offered me $85 to beat the guy's ass, I'd certainly take the contract.
I’m so happy I live in the Uber/Lyft era, took a cab for the first time in Vegas and quickly realized why no one takes them anymore.
If you make a great to-do of making a note of the cab number, the drivers permit, etc., most drivers get smart & charge you regular.
I carry a GPS (smartphone GPS are OK, too) and ask the driver which terminal is this - then pretend to key it in. Every so often ask him the name of a street, and when he asks what you are doing you can say recording your journey - guaranteed to make them honest.|
If a taxi driver says he has "No Change" just say you'll guard his cab whilst he makes change. Or tell to check his other pockets for change.
I think that cabbie might have been me. Was he devilishly handsome with a natural musk similar to bacon cooking?
@@bumheadfilmreviews Yeah! You've described him to a T. Looks like you owe $85! 😂
@@serpent645 I don't have $85 but I will send you positive vibes and a book token to the value of 17 euro.
Great video - well shot, well cut. good audio. You're very charismatic and the camera loves you. Keep it up!
I love that you get right to the point and don't waste my time with your life story.
In, out, done deal.
Nothing to skip forward through.
Agree to the point
Oh my god yes. When tubers respect me that way I respect back and _now_ I'm kinda curious about their story lol
Thanks! You just saved me a ton of money by convincing me not to go to Vegas in the first place.
This is the correct answer. The wife insisted that we go, and of course we did. It was the most miserable vacation ever. You couldn't walk three feet without being accosted by the porn flyers, escorts, and street "artists." And theft is very real in Vegas. Not to mention how many fights we saw while we were there. We swore we'd never be back and we have kept that promise. It's just a nasty place to visit.
Looks like a 24/7 diabetes convention to me. I'm an ethical vegan so I just don't think I'll fit in at all, watching heifers face-fk'ing a buffet table, is NOT my idea of entertainment. But if you're a useless feeder and every member of your family is either overweight or clinically obese, then Vegas must be the center of the fn Universe for you. It reminds me of a Kid Rock cruise ship, we're talking heavy Republican vibes. So, I'm with you, thanks but fn no thanks.
Just fyi if you love nature, vegas is a great place to go. The red Rock National Park is breathtaking and there are tons of outdoor activities to do. Drive 20 minutes and enjoy a completely different type of vacation. Please don’t get discouraged by her video. She’s giving you tips for security which apply to anywhere you travel. I’ve traveled a lot in my life all over the world and most of these tips apply. It’s actually just common sense.
Bro I swear! LMAO!
Don't get me wrong I love Vegas just stay away from the crazy time shares and all that. I had fun last time
the resort fees ARE A SCAM!!!!!!!
For real
Yeah but they aint goin away, add on in ur head when u see that room price
@@bobcumbers4316 I just stay at 4 queens..
The reason it's a scam is because you are charged whether you use those services at the hotel or not. I'm being charged for stuff that I don't use, therefore it's a scam.
Can't opt out
Ruby, thanks for a great vid! You were succinct, accurate, and well presented! 👍
Fun fact: Most bars that offer "souvenir cups" for their frozen drinks in Vegas will refill them for 1/2 price (or significantly less than full price)...and they RARELY, if ever, change the cup designs. I save my cups and bring them with me every trip....ALL drinks end up being 1/2 price . I've been using the same cups from Numb, Fat Tuesdays and Rhumbar for over 5 years now.
Yup!! I do the same thing.
Same applies to fast-food restaurants
That's a good one. Thanks.
Awesome tip!!!! A 🏧 ripping you off sheesh 😮 the city!! Smh wow money money money
We do the same!
Shout out to Ruby for calling out the fake strip dispensaries!
She should have also told the potheads that smoking weed in the hotel rooms is against hotel policy and will usually get you a 500 to 2000 dollar cleaning fee added onto the price of your room. Weed is legal to purchase in Vegas, just can’t smoke it in restaurants, hotels, cabs, public spaces or any other place other than your OWN house.
@@rodneytrotter3725 they literally dont care. people smoke right outside of the casinos, in the rooms etc. nobody cares except for you.
@@rodneytrotter3725 cry about it , if you ain’t paying them better to stfu 🤫
@@rodneytrotter3725 -- That's the way it is in Colorado.
@@rodneytrotter3725 that’s why people get vapes or edibles and there are signs all over telling you not to smoke weed in the rooms. It’s pretty easy to work around.
Great video, Ruby! You forgot to mention the snack setups in the hotel rooms. Grab a candy bar and it will cost you! Also, the countless panhandlers with their sob stories about how they're trying to get back home.
The best way to avoid all of these rip-offs is to just stay home and watch your videos for free! LOL!
WRONG.....you dont have to take anything out of the snack box---they now charge just for opening the door!!
@@chadhaire1711 Seriously?
@@rossacohen314 Yep--people would open the mini fridge, drink items, then try to re-seal with water or other scams.
By the time you pay for parking, resort fee, fridge fee, pool fee, you have had hundreds of dollars taken out of your wallet-----all that used to be free---and the buffet are no longer cheap, anything under $50 is crap, same you get at Harvest Buffet for $13 in your town.......two places I will NEVER set foot in again, Las Vegas, and California
My mom and her husband went to Vegas 2 or 3 times. The last time they went a bottle of water cost 3 bucks and there were extra fees for a number of things, they said they weren't going back.
I thought I would like to go to Vegas just to check out the strip, then I realized the strip isn't the iconic thing I remember from movies I've seen from the 60s and 70s. I plan to go to Nevada to hike, camp, and, possibly, go backpacking, but Vegas may not be on the itinerary.
Sounds much more fun. And healthier! 🙏
My problem with resort fees is that they are not just built into the price. If the hotel shows $100 per night, that is what I expect to pay.
You mean they don't charge taxes? Those add up fast!
Resort fees are the worst!
In my home, Denmark, the price shown is the Price to pay! No added Taxes or what ever found out of additions!!
And a Restaurant is - obliged to put a "Menu with Prices", outside, before entering, and Tips are included in the price, as a rule! On the other side, Danish Waiters are being paid for their work from the Restaurant and not living from the Tips!
And still providing Service in spite of that, as they of course also hope the Customers will return!!!!
@@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 The only place in South Carolina that the price, plus tax is indicated up front is at the ABC stores. (The only place it's legal to purchase liquor)
Seems like they could afford this pricing to all area's and not just drinkers! 🤗
@@happywanderer6307 Yes I find those absurd! The guests pay a lot to get there, gives local work and earnings, buys expensive food and sleeps expensively, so adding an "Insult" to that by a "Punishment Tax" on top!! I try to avoid places having those!
Sadly I have spent the last many years Vacations in a Danish Built and managed housing Colony on Malta, and they do have this absurd Tax on Tourists! Finn
I lived and worked in Vegas from 1990 to 2005. It's sad to see that it's become a huge money black hole that sucks you dry at every corner. Certainly not like the old days where you could actually have a good time without being bled dry.
Absolutely.......back then, they gave you most of the "necessities" so you'd spend your $$$ gambling. But now, they take you to the cleaners for everything, & the show prices, which used to be so cheap, are through the roof. I found that the best idea is to stay at one of the "neighborhood" hotel/casinos-my favorite is Ellis Island. If I ever go back, that's where I will stay.
With how many scams there are in this video ASIDE from the casinos, I'd say Las Vegas itself is the scam now. 🤷♂️
The problem with resort fees is that if they are mandatory, they should be included in the price in the first place. Because now, the price you see during booking, is not the price you end up paying. And THAT is the definition of a scam if you ask me.
Absolutely
U nailed it
Hotels can charge whatever they want to charge, and include whatever they want to in the price. But be honest and show the complete price! (It's like doing business with Mr. Haney!) The fact that hotels hide the resort fees shows that they know they're deceitful. Why do business with someone who's trying to deceive you?
Unfortunately, that’s not how business works…. They don’t have morals and are not not looking for your financial well-being… they are looking to make the Max revenue… take every dollar they can. And they will use marketing tactics, the old bait and switch, and any other dirty tactics to fool or force someone into giving them as much money as possible. Some companies are more cutthroat than others but that’s the main goal. Make money.
Not a problem with me, I don't go anymore.
Ugh, the coin thing at hotels where they hope you won't cash out the change is just absolute greed. Thanks for the vid!
Fantastic video! Straight and to the point-exactly what you need in a video like this!
Not quite sure why I just watched a 10-minute long video about a city I have absolutely no desire on visiting, but hey! It was still informative with zero fluff! Awesome job! :)
@NickolaiVolkov - no need to know "why," you probably watched out of curiosity.
Now I know why I'm not going there !
Why would you not want to visit one of the most exciting cities in the world?
Because it's not exciting. It's exhausting. Not just physically, but mentally. Having to be hyper alert each time you leave your room, is mentally draining. I grew up in San Diego and when I was in my twenties and thirties, it was always a weekend to look forward. YAY! I get to to to Vegas for the long weekend! When I retired and moved out of state, Vegas is closer but now it's "Geeze - don't make md go down there". @@GhostOfBugsy Then there's the cost. For a run-of-the-mill couple or single person, there are so many better ways and places to spend your money.
I find much more excitement watching mold grow on humid walls.
The ATM fees at Paris was $50 for $500 withdrawal and $95 for $1000 withdrawal this past September. There is a ATM inside the CVS between the two resorts from USAA and only charged $3.
poker palace Casino charges 2.25 (2.75 maybe can't remember which). ;D
Not on the strip though ;P
I think you're looking at the cash advance fees for advances on your credit card. No way it's 10% for an ATM.
@@damsbaug33 Agreed
This is crazy smh
I found a hidden BOA ATM at the 4th top floor of M&M store XD, trying to hide them fees.
AWESOME! Great production value, your B-roll is first class and your delivery is better than some the pro's that I work with. Awesome tips too! Thanks!
This literally felt like a friend giving me all the tips and hacks for a trip. Straight to the point , concise.. that was actually kind of bad ass. Thanks
1:00 If arriving early and want to shower/freshen up - ask your hotel if you can use the gym. Many large properties have shower areas in their gyms. Or option 2 - go to the spa and book a treatment, and that gives you access to the spa facilities (and showers). At least you are getting something for your money (instead of paying for early check in). Some spa's have day use fees that don't require treatment.
Lived in Vegas for 8 years and this is the first video of yours I’ve seen. You are 100% legit! Great content delivered quickly and entertainingly. You are definitely the best you-tube Vegas expert I’ve seen.
I certainly have a notion to second THAT emotion !
Why’d you move out James? Hope your new location is treating you good!
Thanks Ruby! Love your videos. We had a 25 year gap between visits and it gas definitely changed. However, i love Vegas and we are making it a yearly trip. We will be back in February. We stayed at the Flamingo and for some reason we ended every night at casino royale for a hotdog and cheap beer!!!! Keep up the great videos, you go girl!
It's true that the hotel charge plus the resort fee is a reasonable total when compared to hotels in other cities. What's annoying is that they don't just give you the straight number up front. You have to go half way through the booking process to find out what your room will actually cost. And then repeat the process for every other hotel you're looking at. And since the resort fee is often .ore than the room charge, it makes a huge difference.
Another great video Ruby! Years ago my sister & I would visit Vegas 1-2 times a year and we had a travel blog full of advice. The one piece of advice at the top of our list was Nothing is 'FREE' in Vegas. I'm not sure if the malls still have those sales people who linger halfway out of a store front or by a kiosk in the middle , the ones who want to clean your ring, ask you about your current face cream, hand cream etc., AVOID them too!
Beware the skin care people! They totally rush you in the mall and plunk you down for a free demonstration. Then you ask price? Ridiculous. Then they want you to MLM for them. I walked.
Ohhh they do! We just got back from Vegas yesterday. Basically if anyone approaches you for anything (free tickets, photo ops, discount coupons, etc.), run in the other direction.
Love your straightforwardness. No BS. Short, sweet and simple. To the points. Great. This is always the best. Don’t sugar coat it. Agree with so much you said here. Pretty much everything there will be tourist prices. Which of course if higher than normal. Rip off time! Knowing Vegas like you do will help with this. The do’s and don’t’s. It’s sad how humans in general just will do anything for money. How low they will go. For their survival.
This was so well presented and informative! Had to subscribe!
Very well done! I’m Old School, & I figured I’d never go back- what w all the crap going on...but your video hit something...I’m kinda thinking of it now. Lol
Short and sweet: 20 tips in 11 minutes. If only all informative videos were this short, for the same amount of information. Thank you!
Well done. I go to Vegas a lot and you really honed in quickly on the things to watch out for on your visit. Not only did you point out the scam, you frequently offered a solution. Good on you.
Love your delivery....straight to the point!!
Wow, no fluff, just good tips. Great video. You’re a great communicator. Very tight. Subscribed.
It's really sad to see what has become of Vegas. Back in the 1980s and 90s it was a hell of alot of fun! It was about gambling, shows, concerts with inexpensive rooms and dining. The casinos made money and visitors enjoyed themselves. Since then it appears they changed their business model. Its never been the same.
I've been to Vegas half a dozen times over the past 10 years or so. The change during those 10 years has been drastic and not in a good way. It feels the attitude of Vegas commerce is no longer to entertain people but to take as much of their money as legally possible.
@@briangallagher710 why would anyone want to entertain u for free
It used to be so much fun to go to Vegas. The last time I was there was 2019 and it was utterly depressing. The mega corporations sucked all the fun out of it.
I remember those days, glad I got to experience before they messed it up. When describing it now, the word I keep coming back to is “hollow”. I feel like I have to be on guard from the money vacuums at all times
@@briangallagher710 absolutely. I remember the days when you were at a craps or blackjack table, and the waitress would have you swimming in booze. Now you're lucky to get anything. I remember when you could get a nice breakfast of steak and eggs with hash browns and coffee for $2.99. You could also get a prime rib dinner for $5.99. You also got a nice tender cut of meat too.
Great content.
Uber and Lyft has really made it much easier to get around without feeling like your getting scammed in LV.
The Walgreens and CVS stores coming to the strip was gold! It made it so easy getting affordable bottles of alcohol and water to your room and water is a must in the room. Before the drugstores you just had ABC stores here and there.
CVS and Walgreens are expensive for me, I found a very cheap store at Flamingo Rd and linq street 💕 it's almost empty (no lines) and great service 24 hours
@@ultraalvafa4962
The strip Walgreens and CVS are definitely more expensive than your normal neighborhood Walgreens or CVS. However, they offer you the convenience of everything you need at a more reasonable price.
@@ultraalvafa4962 what store is that?
@@kaozzzzzzzzz1 Stage Door, next to Batista Italian restaurant... We found water, beers and snacks more cheap than the average price (vs CVS and Walgreens) 🙃🤭
Just make sure to check your cc statement often after you use Uber or Lyft In Vegas. They pulled $500 from my account for a ride several weeks after I went there. Obviously I was able to get it back but it still sucked.
The signed CD scam totally got me. He wanted $20 for the signed CD, I pulled out a 10 and told him not enough. He grabbed the 10 AND the CD then disappeared. I felt like a fool.
that happened to me in Cali, dude said listen to the cd so i did. i like the beat etc. Then he said 20$ and tried to give it back. he said no refund. Dude i didnt pay so i put it on the ground and walked away. he then tried following me
That's why I don't take anything from any body on the strip period.... the only one who gets my money is the people selling the light up crowns... ( my ol lady loves them) anything else I immediately say nah I'm good not interested and keep walking... especially the damn time share people
🤣
lol damn anglos have no balls as a tall mexican when i went to the strip this african guy tried the cd thing with me but he had dreads and it was like stoner music and then said it was 25 bucks so i gave it back and he wouldnt grab it so i let it fall on the floor and he tried to look like he was going to fight me but he backed off
We saw those in LA on Venice beach and in Vegas too - just walked pass them. They try to talk to u - just keep walking. Did not have any problem. Maybe because we are older
Thank you Ruby for caring about we the people of America in a new surrounding.
Always love the tips! I didn’t know about the MGM Stay Well Rooms - we said if we went back, we wanted to stay at MGM for the monorail - definitely going to look into the stay well rooms!
I disagree, resort fees are a scam AND a rip-off. Staffing and maintaining a pool is a fixed hotel cost traditionally included in the room rate. No one, in this day and age, uses a hotel room phone to make local calls. I haven’t seen a newspaper included with a hotel stay in a few years: Monte Carlo used to have them available near the elevators on each floor, haven’t seen them since MC was changed into Park MGM.
I especially hate them because they will become a trend in other businesses. Restaurants are already trying to tack on various fees.
Just like during Covid when all the hairdressers were charging more money because they had to disinfect everything in between clients! I thought they were supposed to do that anyway
Yeah they should include them in the upfront price. It’s just a way to make their rooms look,cheaper than they really are so people book them online.
Yep. And now that trend has spread to Reno and Hawaii. It seems everyone is adopting resort fees.
be upfront about costs. If you are afraid to tell me my true cost, I don't need to buy it.
I believe "resort fees" are a complete scam, sorry. One should pay a room rate and if extras cost more, charge for what is used, not what isn't. It's a money grab, tacked on to make people think room rates are lower than they actually are. At the very least !!! ALL fees, including city and state taxes need to be listed clearly and up front PRIOR too booking.
It’s so sad!!!! We used to go to Vegas a lot but it has gotten so expensive over the last few years. It’s ridiculous. Everything is overpriced now. Even went into Walgreens and they were charging $15 for a 3oz bottle of sunscreen!! My local Walgreens charges $5 for the same product.
As to parking, I live in LV area, but I rarely go to the Strip. My sister was in town for a conference, so I met up with her mid-week at the Venetian. I drove down to the Venetian but before I parked, I asked the attendant if the hotel gave free or discounted parking to locals. The answer was yes, but only for 3 hours and only during certain times. Sometimes it pays to ask.
TI is free
The absolute worst thing about resort fees are they are hidden and you don’t know what the amounts are from your booking! I believe there needs to be legislation that mandates all hotels to disclose the exact price that you will pay at the front desk, WHEN YOU BOOK the reservation.
Now they are changing the name of these fees in Hawaii to “Check Out Cleaning Fee” and “Reservation Fee”. The hotels have gone way too far with hiding fees until you check out which should be illegal for anything you buy.
In Vegas, they don't hide the resort fees. They tell/show you up front.
@@otrebla8944 I was saying when you book the reservation. I even capitalized WHEN YOU BOOK. It is not stated in the reservation. Hotels have different resort fees and they change by season and whether certain activities are open. Trust me, I’ve worked for hotels for many years and know the business.
@@PJ33333 I know what you said. And what I am saying is that in Vegas, the resort fees are made known and clear WHEN YOU BOOK. I've been to Vegas. They don't hide the resort (extort) fees.
@@otrebla8944 When you book an airline ticket, do they charge you differently when you get off the plane? No, the price you pay on the website is the same that you end up with.
@@PJ33333 are we talking about hotels or airlines? My comments were clear: Vegas hotels CLEARLY state their resort fees. Don't believe me if you don't want to.
Cool video Ruby! Thanks for sharing this! My only comment is on the resort fees and taxes - I think the government should pass a law that forces all hotels to show the total cost per night and not hide the fees and taxes. At least that would level the playing field.
Totally agree 👍
Its a hidden discount for people that get them removed. As Ruby said -- its making up the price differences in places without the facilities. So its like a permanent discount once you hit that tier that they are removed. As long as they are disclosed at booking, you shouldn't be surprised by it at the hotel desk.
@@redwolfexr Are you the one guy who thinks this is OK? I get full comps so I really don't care... Why not show the total cost when you search so you can make the best decision based on your budget. If everyone had to do it, it would be fair...
So wait. You want the U.S. Government to pass a pro consumer law that goes against multi-billion dollar corporations? in 2022? HA!
@@mrmotel9977 You mean do I agree with Ruby? Our host? Yes, with the limited statement that they are disclosed in advance when booking.
Deliberately undersupplying the hotel room. For example, checked into the Luxor a few years ago. There were only two pillows on our bed. No extra pillow in the closet. Had to call staff to bring a couple more pillows. The staff person hung around chatting away until we realized they wanted a tip. Next, our TV didn't seem to be working. Had to call staff. Staff person comes in and shows us that we had to flip a switch on the wall on order to get the TV to work. Starts chatting us up and doesn't leave the room until tipped. Not enough towels in the bathroom...You get the picture.
You actually stayed at that Pyramid place? Where are you from, Antarctica? Luxor! Ha Ha Ha!
Tips is American culture I American I say pay up as employer so your customers don't have 2 💯 % truth!
@@lewisyancy7648yeah don't it got to many bad reviews
I have never stayed in a hotel room where they ask for tips for bringing stuff. Perhaps they sensed you were an easy mark.
@@Breeze-gd8wj Be careful saying that. Else a bunch of americans will come after you defending how important it is to tip and get yourself ripped off at every place you visit so that the business owners don't have to pay their employees.
Great information, concisely delivered - thanks!
I am so glad that I experienced Las Vegas before all of these rip-offs and scams began. Back in the 80's and 90's there were no resort fees, parking fees, cheaper buffets, cheaper hotel prices and great deals for players club members.
Trashier too filled with trailer park people able to afford those cheap hotel rooms.
Hate to break it to you, but if you gamble, Vegas has always and will always be a ripoff.
Other than a couple of table games, like Hold 'Em, the entire enterprise is mathematically designed to part you from your money.
@@toasternfriends3329 Hate to break it to you but we all know that, but they do pay out otherwise no one would come.
@user-db6pt7vr3l The more you play, the more you lose. Very simple formula.
Saying "but they do pay out" is just a way to excuse one's inability _not_ to make terrible decisions.
I'm truly sorry if you've found yourself in that awfully ignorant place.
@@toasternfriends3329 Last week put a 100 bill in my local dollar slot machine, hit max bet and won $2400 on the second spin. Took my money and went home. Yes, it's an awful place I've found myself in. LOL.
Very awesome tips, thank you for taking the time to educate the world about this! Never in a million years would I have thought of the things you mentioned as scams! Some were obvious, like the shady looking pot shops but others were not so obvious.
These are excellent tips Ruby. One I would like to add is in relation to the stores inside the Showcase Mall located across from New York New York & Park MGM. Do not shop at the stores inside the Showcase Mall with the exception of the Target (for cheap snacks & drinks compared to casino gift shops) & M&M's World. Many of them charge $5-30 extra for items simply because they are located on the Strip and can get away with it. I remember on my trip to Vegas wanting to buy a pair of white & black Adidas Superstar sneakers at the Adidas store thinking they were $90 (the base price). Instead they were $120 & decided to go to the Adidas store at Vegas Premium Outlets (North) to buy them and they were actually 40% off the $90 which is a great deal in my view.
@Chris You should ALWAYS look for an outlet when buying expensive items. They often will be cheaper at a department store.
Fantastic video. I've never been, but have always wanted to go just to see the different architecture / themes of the casinos. You really covered a tremendous amount of different items. Happy Trails to you Ruby! Thank you for the informative, fun video!
For resort fees to not be a scam, they need to be included in your rate. I think properties use resort fees to avoid taxes, but from a consumer perspective they feel sneaky and like a cash grab.
#1 scam are taxes
Totally agree, I got stuck with resort fees of half the price of my hotel stay at the Hampton Inn in Puerto Rico. The hotel perhaps one of the smallest in the area, but made me pay for whatever resort they had elsewhere.
Definitely agree with you that resort fees are bs but I promise you they are not for tax reasons that they charge it after. The hotel stays pays tax on all revenue generated, which includes resort fees.
🔴 LOST VEGAS ‼️
They do it to avoid those extra cheap prices on Booking etc. Cause the resort fee is usally paid at the hotel when you arrive
I love that you get straight to the point in your videos instead of using "filler" like other do in theirs.
I truly appreciate that each of your parts is done in a single take so I don't have to endure three, four, or fives cuts in the middle of each piece.
You can survive cheaply in Las Vegas if you want to. I went there for 2 days with a mate a few years ago. We booked one room online at Harrahs Hotel very cheaply that also included the buffet breakfast. We used the room only to shower and change when required. We also made sure to eat as much as we could at the buffet each morning and then only ate snacks like bagels throughout the day. I found a 1 cent poker machine at the Luxor where you could drink free beer as long as you were gambling. I played one line at a time and drank quickly. We didn't sleep for 48 hours and had a great time.
Hi Ruby my wife & I have just returned home to the UK after spending 6 nights in Vegas. And would like to thank you for your informative videos which really helped us throughout our stay. Oh and we stayed at the Palazzo which we loved as well as the The Bellagio & Mandalay Bay. Keep up the great work 👍🏻
Ruby - I'm glad you mentioned avoiding "handouts" and I don't take anything handed out as a personal policy. Those free CD guys can be rough though. I am usually good about avoiding people on the strip, but recently a crew of these guys was set up so that I'd walk through them, then they quickly surrounded me, forced a CD in my hand, and then wanted a "cash donation." I got away from them eventually but it was obnoxiously difficult to do so (after claiming I had no cash). Keep in mind they also will ask for Venmo but I'd be careful using digital payments to what are essentially scammers as then they have your account info or convince you to send more than you should. Pleading ignorance about Venmo was a smart move. They later tried to get me again while I was playing a slot machine further down the strip. Luckily they weren't there long, I am sure security would have kicked them out. Just another "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" I guess.
This also happened to me very annoying and they kinda try to intimidate you to get money.
Yeah the CD folks in particular are getting crazy now
I find that as soon as you glance at them, make eye contact or even speak to you they won't leave you alone. The best thing is to keep walking and ignore them. I think I'm a pro at it here in the UK and when I go abroad.
@@DSMTheEditor and hardly anyone has a cd player anymore lol
Ruby omg 1M views!!! Congratulations. And your subscriber count is way up there!! You’re doing it!! I started following you when you had less than 30k subs. Been watching for a while. You helped me prep for my Vegas wedding.
Congratulations girl 👏❤️
I haven't been to Vegas in many years. My wife and I were thinking of going there for a few days sometime in the next month or so. After seeing this video and the comments, we have decided to skip Vegas and go somewhere else.
I've noticed the coin scam (not paying out the change on the ticket redemption machines) the last couple of years going to Vegas. That one is so disgusting especially since there is often a line at the cashier, so now I have to wait in a line to get my 15 cents! The gaming board should put an end to that scam immediately!
They purposely short staff the cashiers so there's always a long line making you not want to wait which is even more shady
Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately, I play slots and table games so I am forced to cash tickets out at cashier. They started that policy at my local place on the East Coast add if you are a frequent gambler, it adds up. Terrible policy. Hopefully there is some oversight.
Playing the slots at Mirage, we cashed out our tickets of 15 cents, 30 cents, etc, then when we went to another slot machine, along with our $20, we'd put in those change tickets too. If you're leaving Vegas, and you play a slot and are left with less than a dollar, leave it in, as a kind of 'pay if forward' surprise for the next person. Some casinos even have boxes labelled Humane Society, Children's Aid society, Cancer society, where you put your tickets in. Then the money on the tickets is added up, and given to that particular charity.
What i did last time is just insert them in the machine im playing next time i play slots.I used up all except like .20c
@@Kelly-tj8xv my friend would always take the free change and play a few bucks.
My first time in Vegas I bought one of those CD’s that people on the street were selling because he marketed it as a “demo” tape and I wanted to support him. I paid him $10 for it. When I flew home and put the CD into my computer, it asked me if I’d like to burn something to the CD. I BOUGHT A BLANK CD FOR $10!!! 🤣🤣🤣
Yea some are dishonest. True artist trying to get a foothold with potential fans are harmed by these scrams. My son purchased a rapper’s cd for five dollars. Quality sound and lyrics - we hope he makes it.
Same thing happened to me
My stepdad bought a blank CD for $20 lolll
Ha ha! that happened to me in Veradero, Cuba. Nice guy who was selling CDs. Chatted him up and everything. Turned out it was a blank CD when I came home. lol
I always tell them I don’t even have a CD player lol
Hey Ruby, thanks for being probably the first to say the licensed slots have lower payouts!! Thought so for a looong time! (not just in Vegas tho)
Facility charges and parking charges ended my twice-yearly visits to Vegas.
Great video! Awesome. Straight to the point. Yes, I did the unfortunate mistake to buy something at the convenience store. I bought like 3 items and the total was around 20 dollars 💸 when you can easily get it at a CVS for $5.
My problem with Resort Fees is the blatant nature of the grift. Just build the fee into the room quote and be done with it. Don’t try to convince guests they are getting a bargain $80 Mid-strip room during the week when it’s actually costing you double once resort fees and taxes are added. The only redeeming value of the resort fee is the use of the pool, which was never considered an extra until the resorts decided to strong arm their loyal and PAYING customers. In the winter most of the pools are closed, so what are you really getting for the $50 per day fee when you stay on the Strip in February?
I think I got that guy. Forced me to sit down and figure out the Uber thing. Worked out in the long run.
That's exactly why they do it, to sound cheaper. It's like when items are priced "$1.99, $19.99"...etc. It seems cheaper but it's just how they get you to spend a lot of money while the quote sounds cheap.
Exactly my concern with resort fees.
legalized theft
its the Internet! the internet is great but its created these advertising/price wars on all the online travel sites, and they all want their prices to seem lower than they actually are. Airlines the same way with all the extra bag fees, etc. I freaking hate it
A few years ago the wife and I were walking through the Venetian and very nice middle aged lady approached us with what I thought was a tired old line of "Are you staying in Vegas until tomorrow?". I smelled scam and kept walking but the wife talked to her, I was in the distance scowling.
Come to find out her husband was sick and they were going back to LA that night and she had two tickets to Blue Man Group and just gave them to the wife.
Even after my walk off performance, the wife still took me to the show! LOL
That's a great story! Pretty cool. Thanks for sharing.
That was nice happy ending, but I don't blame you though. You have to keep your guard up (a little), when in Vegas!
That was called The Blessing just remember to play it forward someday it'll all be good karma. Love and light Miss Susie
Sounds like you are a quality person calling her “THE wife”.
@@Mark-sj3xb
Lmao..
Hey Ruby and Hubby, Your services are so valuable to both newcomers and seasoned travelers and the family. ❤
The scam that’s most common when you fly in is this: taxi or Uber drivers both do this. If you are staying on the strip your driver will loop you completely around the airport and take the freeway. That will double or more the fee it should cost you. Always, always tell the driver to take you down Paradise blvd. It’s a straight shot to the hotels right off the airport exit road.
They may even ask you something like “ hey! You wanna get there the fast way?”. It only means you’re driving faster on the 15 and it’s gonna gonna be a much longer distance.
That is not the case with cabs anymore. They do flat rates from the airport and to the airport. 3 zones. 1 zone $22, 2 $26, 3 $30. She is not right about Uber and lift prices compared to cabs. Lately uber and lift are in average not less expensive on the strip, plus Uber and lift change their prices based in how busy Vegas is. Resort fees, parking, drinks, any most of things she said, are not "rip of", or scames. You see the price and it is your choice to bay. Vegas is very expensive.
Every time I go to vegas if I use a taxi I always tell them to take paradise from the airport. My boyfriend grew up there and still has family we visit so I've learned my way around
@@radesaran8527 You are right in that its your choice to pay, but if it is much cheaper elsewhere on the strip why not take the information and avoid being ripped off.
These place do have the right to charge what they want, that doesn't mean they are not scamming you.
Uber drivers cannot do this. From the time you book the app maps a route and you are given a price. That price doesn't go up unless YOU change the destination or add a stop. If it somehow does, you complain to Uber/Lyft and you'll get the entire fare refunded.
Taxis can try this scam, Ubers cannot. (Note: another commenter says even Taxis can't anymore. I'm not sure, I've used exclusively rideshare in Vegas for many years now). The story about the scam was correct though, it's an old one. They take the old bridge and highway which is way longer if you're on the main strip, especially the southern part like by Mandalay/Luxur/Excalibur/MGM Grand.
I always have a Mercedes suv limo pick me up from the Airport. I'm not aware of hidden fees! I travel to Vegas once a year and spend roughly 25 grand on my 4 day trip
Your videos are all so well done. Great information, great shots and well edited. TH-camrs could learn a lot from you. Keep up the good work, while we watch your numbers soar. Best regards.
Great video, and thank you. I have even less interest in ever visiting Las Vegas now than I ever have.
One more to add: Visit Vegas during the week (Mon-Thurs) and stay away on the weekends if you’re looking for the best hotel prices in town. When the weekend hits and everyone from Phoenix, Utah, and SoCal are in town, hotel prices cost an arm and a leg.
I'm from Utah and I feel this 🤣 I apologize for my people.
I’m from NC and unfortunately I lived in Idaho for 5 years and this is true lol 😂
That's true and you find yourself spending close to 2K depending on the hotel. ;
We drove in from Utah on Sunday and left Friday, the traffic jams going the opposite direction near that river gorge were comical 😂
How can you defend resort fees? Getting charged for something you may not even use is predatory and a giant ripoff.
well when you do it online they tell you the price before you pay includes tax and fees they claim your getting wi fi included and other but its for each day but they may reduce the rate and then add it on so its not as high
It's a scam unless you have the option to opt out. I did that with Wynn but I don't know if they still offer that anymore.
Paying Resort Fees and still not being able to use all the facilities, The Strat Hotel charge to go up the tower to the viewing deck. Surely they could make an hour in the morning when it’s free for the residents of the hotel to go up there.
I think it’s because those fees actually help the local Vegas economy and fund their new raiders stadium. And as you can see, people are still paying regardless because it’s Vegas.
It's marketing 101. The actual night rate is split in two, as patrons are more likely to book a $70 a night hotel + $35 resort fee, than a hotel charging $105 upfront. What she said is true.. We know these fees are there.
Your videos are always entertaining, helpful, or both. Love your stuff!! Thank you both for all of the time and effort you put into making them...I know it takes work.
Excellent video. It looks like you got through some of the scams for the sake of the video! The time-sharing one is a must avoid at all costs!
Love your behind the scenes tips and scam alerts! Thank you!
One of the more useful videos I have seen in a while. Short, sweet and to the point. I will most likely never travel to Las Vegas as I live in South Africa and the rand/dollar exchange rate is ridiculous. However I appreciate how this could help others.
Very helpful, as always!
Regarding ATMs - check your bank apps, since I'm able to use no-fee 🏧 at various places like Walgreens, CVS, and monorail stations.
usually you need to use the same bank so if you have citi machine and same bank may be no fee
Nice video. Years ago the casinos needed to lure people in with cheap food and drinks. Due to the popularity of Las Vegas many casinos feel like they can just rip you off at every turn. They figured out that many younger guests at the hotels don't gamble so now they charge like $17 or more for a mixed drink at the pool. Have 3 drinks that's $51 or more before tip! Here are a few more scams:
1) If you go to the Starbucks at Caesars Palace near the Augustus Tower (where the really nice rooms are) they charge you about $12 for a grande coffee and a pumpkin bread. That's before tip. In Los Angeles, that is more like $7.
2) Go order chicken wings in Las Vegas (or anywhere else now) some places charge almost $19 for 10 wings. They are not made of gold! They are just chicken wings. Not even the best part of the chicken (the breast).
3) Even a burger and fries can cost you in Las Vegas. I think the average price at many places is about $17.99. I went to Wahlburgers at the Morongo casino in California. I ordered a double burger, fries and a soda. It cost me $27. At least the food was excellent.
We once ordered "two strong drinks" for a Vegas anniversary and they were $100 a piece! Unexpected, but we learned and paid.
@@dorkyska wow that's pricey.
@@dorkyska wow that's pricey.
In my opinion the biggest scam is having to pay for pool chairs/umbrellas if you are a hotel guest.
At MGM Grand, if you want shade of any kind, will cost you.
A number of years ago, at the Wynn, we found a shady corner by the adult pool in the back. The next year, we went to our spot only to discover they'd installed more cabanas - no more "free shade." That's when we found another hotel.
I remember when they built the Vdara. It had a concave shape to it with reflecting windows. In the summer, the windows of the hotel would focus the sunlight which would blaze across the pool deck, melting drink glasses. It was dangerous. They had to replace all those windows with windows that didn't reflect the sunlight. They called it the "Vdara Death Ray". It was very funny.
Why would you want to sit around a pool?
@@meself349 Some people enjoy sunbathing and having drinks by the cool water. Some of the pool parties are great fun.
Ruby - you are On Point with this video! The table info & wifi info was excellent as well. We’ve been coming yearly to Vegas for over 15 years but now we’re bringing newbie’s with us in 2023 - I’m going to make them watch this video plus your cheap eats and drinks videos! We’ll be spending lots of time together but also time apart because everyone needs their own space/time - your videos - especially this one - will be so helpful to them and I won’t sound like I’m “parenting” them through Vegas! 🤣🤣🤣 Keep up the amazing work!
I just took my wife to Las Vegas for her 30th birthday and it was honestly not a great experience because everything was so expensive and everybody was trying to rip you off at every opportunity moment. The only thing that was worth it was the Grand Canyon tour.
I only go to Vegas for things like conventions anyway, so much of the time is spent in the event hall, away from many of these scam sources. You still gotta be wary, but its a little more enjoyable an experience, I dare say.
I’ve been to Vegas back in the 90s it was awesome I went again in like 2018 it was awful maybe it was 2016 anyway it was much different. It was really expensive no free buffets anymore. The gambling machines and minimum bets were all outrageous. it was just not very fine but I heard that if you go to old Dagus on Fremont Street, it’s still a good time it’s more like the Vegas of the 90s and the 80s . We didn’t even see any exotic sports cars when I went in the 90s I seen all kinds of Ferraris Lamborghinis and special edition Corvettes. When I went back in 2016 or whatever nothing you see us.
Oh yeah we went on that tour too. It was winter the ride there in the bus is 2 lane road and the bus driver is flying around all the crazy blind hills and turns. We were all scared to death. It was freezing at the Canyon but the air was crystal clean so got some good photo's. Best part of the Vegas trip really.
Same and same. Did you do to the Indian reservation with the sky bridge? It was cool.
@@marshallstacy6243 We are from Florida and it was not very cold in vegas so stupidly did not bring jackets got to the Canyon and wow it was like 18 degree's.
Couldn't stand to be outside long so did not go anywhere.
This was super helpful! We're planning a trip for October and can't wait to go!
My tip: beware of "Starbucks" inside of casinos. They're just a Starbucks-branded casino store and the prices are like 200% higher than a real Starbucks. Total scam.
Dude I just started going to Starbucks a year ago an bought a drink at a vegas one I was pissed at the price I thought it be the same as where I live
haha this for sure. I've worked in a few casinos that had a Starbucks in them. They're employees of the casino selling Starbucks products, but at whatever cost the casino chooses to mark them up at.
Just keep in mind, casinos weren't built so people could walk out with money. Back when the syndicate ran the Vegas casinos you could expect respect and hospitality as long as you played the games straight. After the corporate takeovers Vegas became the rip-off capitol of the world.
Yup
So you’d get a better experience from a “made” guy if you acted like you had some manners than from a so-called legitimate businessman? I don’t doubt it, it’s just…ironical as hell 😳🫣🫣🫣
@@tonyjones1560 It's true, I worked for the Fretita fam years ago; very nice folks as they measure you for concrete boots... Should be a movie called "Escape from Vegas"..! 😁
@@stevebruce1078 Yikes! I meant for the ordinary citizen who could had enough self control to have a good time without getting into the deep end of the pool…and wearing concrete boots! The stories you must have, though🫣🤣😎
So true.
you are awesome for sharing this! we all know how many scams there are but I appreciate you pointing them out :) xoxo
You are absolutely amazing. Your videos are great and very informative. Thank you!
I have to disagree with resort fees. We stayed in Vegas twice during Covid. EVERYTHING was closed, pools, gym, etc AND they still collected fees for amenities that were not offered 😡😡😡
Never mind that in the last 20 years, the resort fees have doubled. The higher prices were either $35-40.
Well I don't think shes talking about if we go back in time and stay during covid. In fact, it specifically says 2022 in description.
The place is crawling with rats... gangsters always count on someone looking for "something for nothing."
So what you mean is, you were traveling around the country, potentially spreading Covid-19, as hundreds of thousands of people died? Got it
@@Nijeguhz Your VACCINE doesn't stop CATCHING or SPREADING Covid like Clueless Joe promised.
Nice job Ruby. Even for someone like me who flys in, gets the rental and immediately drives out of town to the canyons etc. You are smart and sweet. Keep up the good work!
Love your videos, Ruby. Always very informative, honest, and articulate.
Hi Colleen ... I just read your wonderful comment,you sound great
Fantastic video, SO well edited! Another huge scam/annoyance is the following: those aggressive sales people who hawk women in to put serum around their eyes to 'lift' them, lol. They are relentless. They're in the major hotels near the clothing and other retail shops, and call out to you whilst holding a small gift bag 4 u. Do not fall for it, waste of time, just chemicals.My husband and I have come out to Vegas twice yearly for trade show, and that show requires you to stay at Venetian/Palazzo and haven't encountered any problems, typically, checking in early, no extra fees. We're not gamblers, but somehow we've escaped having to pay a fee for that perk. I guess it's our history of staying? Or bc of said trade show? Dunno, but just wanted to give u our perspective. You're a natural on camera!
Very informative video. One scam I would add is taxi/Uber drivers asking if you want to stop by a liquor store on your way to your hotel after picking you up from the airport. They will take you to an overpriced store that they get a kickback from, and if you are riding with Uber or Lyft, they will consider that to be a second trip and charge you accordingly without telling you.
How come that doesn't surprise me? Nothing surprises me anymore in this day in age!
Lift and Uber have everything shown on the app and if the driver adds on a stop you can contact customer service and they will change the price you were charged after the driver took a detour to the price you were quoted.
I’m a local and we took an Uber from up by the base down to the Galleria mall which is directly south of us. The driver went west for 12 miles out of the way before going back towards the mall, and we were charged 59 dollars when we were quoted 15. A contact to Uber and our fee was changed when we reported him taking a longer route. It’s against their policy to take a long way around to get somewhere.
@@rodneytrotter3725 Yes, my friend who called the Uber was able to get it fixed. However, the driver was obviously hoping she wouldn't notice.
We need more people like you. Straight up talk. God bless
God bless in Sin City 😂👍
been working in vegas for 23 years in guest services and this video is 100 % true....good job
Thank you, I've been to Vegas twice already but I still learned a couple of tricks thanks to you