Change is always happening in Las Vegas. In the community and on the Las Vegas strip. A few of the current changes that will effect the tourists are both good and bad.

A good change is the ban has been lifted on the use of cell phones in the sports book areas of casinos. This ban was always posted, but always strictly enforced. The lifting of the ban is only for one year. Then to be reviewed and hopefully done forever.

The Star Trek Experience is closing September 1. The OOh LA La topless show at the Paris is closing August 31. But Donny and Marie Osmond will be starting a run at the Flamingo Hotel on Tuesday September 9th. The cheap seats in the balcony starting at $85.00. The guest room renovation at the Mirage should be complete by September.

Another change that may occur later is one tourists should watch for. There is going to be an attempt to raise the room taxes on hotels from the current 10% to 13%. The reason for the increase to raise more funds for the schools. But even that is being debated as to whether this increase will be enough. So along with increase in gas prices, air fares, airline fees and inflation in general. Finding a bargain hotel room or discount to Las Vegas with get harder to find. Expect to take more time searching for the deals and trying to talk the hotels into giving you a break.

I keep hearing about the slow down in travel across the counattempt and even in Las Vegas. I read the stats about the drop in air lines going to Vegas. The drop in hotel room occupancy. The drop in people driving to Vegas. But September looks to be very busy. At minimum the week I chose to go. I think the big football weekend is attracting many of the people. You have USC--Ohio State on Saturday night. Then Monday is the Dallas Cowboys--Philadelphia Eagles.

I am looking at the week of September 13 -- 20. A week at Caesars Palace would be over $3,000.00. The regular rooms are sold out. Bally's is sold out. Paris is sold out. Just a few rooms at Harrah's or the Flamingo. Now the Rio and Imperial Palace do have rooms still available. But I don't care much for the Rio casino. I also prefer staying at hotels on the strip. I have gambled a few times in the Imperial Palace casino. A bit dark and crowded for me. Don't think I will stay there. Maybe if they do major renovations to the place I would consider it.

So for now, I am looking at the Flamingo. The MGM website is very poor. It just list what offers their hotels have made. Then you have to call each hotel to actually find out what the offer is. The Harrah's website is much better and informative. I am also hoping the Venetian/Palazzo will come in with a good offer. I have alalert used complimentary rooms there a couple times this year. But, I generally end with a decent deal. So hope for the best!

So if your planning a Las Vegas vacation this fall. Keep checking the websites often. The rates change all the time. Also keep checking the air fares. I check a couple times a day. I was able to get a circular trip flight, direct both ways for just under $300.00. Not too bad in today's market.

Good luck to everyone!!