No more Las Vegas clichés – Monte Carlo Resort

Don’t get me wrong. I LOVE Vegas. I enjoy gambling, love the people watching, totally enjoy the incredible restaurants and more. Over the past few years, Las Vegas seemed to have become a cliché. Between the “What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas,” the theme-park type of hotels, and Elvis showing up at every turn it’s become a bit….OVERDONE.

But, there’s a new wave of hotels in Las Vegas that are much more to my liking. They run the gamut from incredible luxury to green certified.  Elegant, luxurious, without being gaudy – the hotels that are a part of the City Center complex are amazing.

I had the opportunity to stay at the “Unpretentiously Luxurious” Monte Carlo Resort and Casino last week. Whether you’re looking for upscale at a bargain or just plain old UPSCALE, you’ll find it at the Monte Carlo, as well as it’s Hotel 32 (which occupies the 32nd floor of the hotel).

Properties

Monte Carlo Resort and Casino – While the lobby and grounds at the Monte Carlo are opulent, they really have captured that unpretentiously luxurious feeling. I happened to stay in a suite, but you can often find rooms on sale. As a matter of fact, right now you can book a room at the Monte Carlo for a mere $56, that includes all sorts of EXTRAS. At the Monte Carlo you’ll feel just as comfortable in a cocktail dress as you will walking through the lobby in your bathing suit from their GREAT pool and cabana area.

While at the Monte Carlo, I enjoyed dinner at Diablo’s Cantina, Brand Steakhouse, the Buffet and had drinks at The Pub. I was actually shocked to find that the restaurant prices were downright reasonable with great food choices. I’ll tell you a bit more about the restaurants, casino and entertainment in a future post. Just know that whether you have a tight budget or are ready to spend your winnings (I’d suggest Andrés Restaurant if you’re looking to splurge), there’s something for EVERYONE.

Hotel 32 – Located on the 32nd floor of the Monte Carlo,  is the epitome of luxury. From the moment you walk in the door, everything is taken care of for you. There’s no check-in required (you’re taken straight to your room), given a personal iPhone programmed with all of the numbers that you’ll need (concierge, butler, etc.), and enjoy the most incredible room. Perfect for both MEN and WOMEN…they’ve thought of EVERYTHING at Hotel 32. I was able to get a sneak peek at this WONDER of Las Vegas.

My tour began in the guest lounge. Just one look out of the window and you KNOW why you want to stay here. The views are breathtaking. Add to that their signature cocktail, and you you’ll want to hang out for a good long while, enjoy the hors d’oevres and decompressing after a tough day of blackjack.

Hotel 32 has only 50 rooms, ranging from a single room to two bedroom suites. The decor is understated elegance and the technology would make any tech addict giggle. From the living area that’s awash in flat panel televisions to the integrated tv’s in the bathroom mirror, you’ll NEVER miss a play by your favorite team or a moment of The Real Housewives of…  The entire room from the drapes to the electronics are literally at your fingertips via remote control.  And then there’s the bathroom. There’s something about the perfect bathroom that’s every woman’s dream and I have to tell you, that I could MOVE INTO THIS ONE.  From the hydrotherapy tub that was drawn and scattered with rose petals, to the shower that can be controlled to the perfect temperature, this spa worthy bathroom makes relaxing easy. Add to that the fabulous Kiehl’s products that are there for your use and you know that you’re living the good life!

From the limo that picks you up at the airport, to the personal butler and concierge – this is Champagne Living.. In typical Monte Carlo style, you can actually book a room at $250 a night (check for special rates – I checked and found rooms starting at only $170).

I also got a quick peek at the smoke and casino free Vdara. If you love living “green” and want eco-friendly, the Vdara is for you. It is the first Las Vegas hotel to be LEED gold certified, from the US Green Building Council, a true mix of luxury, beauty and sustainable space. You’ll get that breath of fresh air feeling throughout this hotel. Earthy, yet elegant, well appointed rooms, coupled with eco-friendly efficiency make you feel GOOD about staying.  It’s odd, but you don’t FEEL like you’re in Las Vegas here…it’s truly a world away. By the way – the REAL reason to visit the Vdara…the 18,000 sq. ft., 2 level SPA! This is one place that I could see taking a real girlfriend’s getaway.

If you’re an art lover, the Aria  is the place to stay. I spent my short tour with my eyes darting back and forth between the Rauschenburg, Moore and Claus Oldenburg’s. Of all of the hotels, this would be my choice. I love being surrounded by beautiful art and the Aria and City Center provided a virtual feast. I would never have imagined in my wildest dreams that Las Vegas could house the world’s largest public art collection.

Yes, Vegas is changing! Stop by Champagne Living later in the week and I’ll take you to the casino, restaurants, spa and entertainment at the Monte Carlo. Oh, and the shopping at Crystals is FABULOUS!

I was a guest of the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino, although I did pay for my own transportation. I was in no way compensated for this post and all opinions are strictly my own.