The Vegas Tourist Podcast

Let's call this one "the last 24 hours"!!  There are those moments in your life when you just say "dang, this would make a great podcast" and there you have it.  24 hours in the life of a Las Vegas Tour Guide on Halloween weekend.   Talking with my Wife, Debbie about the 25th annual Fetish and Fantasy Halloween Ball, then one of the BEST Valley fo Fire tours I ever had!! 

In this episode, we discuss the world of resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.  The MGM Buying Cosmo, The big Blue Silo loses its hotel partner, Resorts world shuffles its management staff, Las Vegas International Airport to be renamed for a racists senator.  And more opinions, thoughts and commentary!

71 years on Route 66, a (very) unique perspective Last week, may 5,2021 I traveled historic route 66 to Seligman AZ, and sat down to talk with Mauricio Perez the son-in-law of the guardian angel of route 66, Angel Delgadillo. On that date, 71 years ago, Angel opened his pool hall and barber shop and has been a fixture on that famous piece of highway ever since. He later created the Historic Route 66 Association in order to save this now-famous highway!   I got the unique opportunity to sit down and have an unfiltered conversation with his son in law about what it is like to be part of the family business, about living and working on the most famous piece of asphalt in the world, and we even drifted into talking about angels philosophy about life, love and the pursuit of happiness…

yes, episode #302.  Almost a weekly thing now!!   This week getting a little more adventurous.   Next week I plan the first-ever The Vegas Tourist Superchat!  February 1st, 6 pm PST Spending Birthday the Winter 4x4 Jamboree Vising the petroglyphs and seeing climate change before the creation of the automobile Enjoying a day at the Lion Habitat with the grandkids  

Welcome back to the podcast. A lot has happened in the last few weeks. The Pinball Hall of Fame makes a plea for some help and gets it. Seigfried of Sigfried and Roy passed away Sheldon Adelson Passed away. 

Yes, The Vegas Tourist Podcast has returned. This time with a new format.  So I started with a new number.  #300.   Today Mark Anthony, The Vegas Tourist discusses the changes, the new format and talks about what His predictions were for the new year and Las Vegas tourism.  as well as why Las Vegas may be done but it is not out.     Talking about what may be the future of Las Vegas. What it will focus on in its comeback after the pandemic. 

This is not welcoming YOU Back to Las Vegas!  No!  This one is on the opening of Las Vegas!!! Yes, Vegas is starting to show serious signs of coming back to life!!   Crime in Las Vegas?  is it really as bad as the news makes it seem?  Not really. But it is the media and they like to focus on las Vegas!!  Crime is up 4%.  Average for a city of almost 3 million people. We just don't have the crowds or the staff like we had before the pandemic shutdown. Fewer people, more things to see.    The New Circa resort is getting ready to open in Downtown Las Vegas! The first new building resort in Downtown since 1980. Adults Only! Big Elvis returns to the Strip. That means life is coming back to the Strip!   

For my wife's birthday, I decided to surprise her with a two-night stay at the Cosmopolitan in a one-bedroom terrace suite with a view of the Bellagio Fountains.  We were on the fortieth floor and it was an awesome view.  here are the details and thoughts on our little adventure!   Being locals, we don't really have a need to stay down on the Strip too often and with the eCovid scam going on, we needed to stay local for her birthday, so a little "Staycation" was what we had.  Stay Local but act like a real vacation!

Welcome Back!  Today Mark is joined by his wonderful wife Debbie as they talk about their latest adventure: A photoshoot over the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown in a Maverick Helicopter. Checking out the changes, seeing the hotels, the attractions, and experiences from above.  We were invited on this shoot with good friend and Professional Las Vegas photographer Tom Donoghue who needed to get updated shots of the newest hotels - The Circa in Downtown Las Vegas, the Resorts World on the Las Vegas Strip and of course, The new $2 billion Allegiant Stadium.  Thank You Tom Donoghue for the invite and thank you to Maverick Helicopter and our pilot Mark Kennedy for the opportunity to experience your wonderful hospitality! 

Today Mark is joined by long time friend and The Vegas Tourist supporter, Marty McIntosh.  Having Marty back on board, who knees where the show will go!  We get caught up on Marty's plan to return to Las Vegas as well get deep and dirty into the Las vegas lockdown by our out of control governor.  Why Las Vegas doesn't work like a light switch as some seem it should.  Mark goes off on an unexpected promotion for some pretzels from North Dakota!  

In this episode of Mondays with Mark - The Vegas Tourist Podcast, Las Vegas plays host to the 2020 NFL Draft in April. How will that work out?  How will the NFL's bully mentality mesh with the reality of the Las Vegas market? Will the NFL be wise and go along to get along and to sit back, let us run the show while they cash the checks?  It works for the NHL.      

The Vegas Tourist Podcast is back in action and we are meaning to stay in action!!  Mark Anthony returns with his beloved other half (Miss Debbie) for the first episode of the new year.  Bringing good tidings, and good cheer to all dare to listen.  With them comes good news on the future of Las Vegas and the future of this Podcast! We know, it has been a while and we know Vegas has changed. That's the reason for us returning to the podcast world!  We think Vegas has changed for the better (we hope) and we want to be there for a front-row seat. Talking about it all with you!     Word of Warning:  It's been a while and I'm a little rusty on the controls here. So give me some slack on the audio edits and controls. Ok?? 

Welcome to another podcast and this one will start a new direction for the long-running podcast. After hearing comments from the listeners over the years, every time I seem to have drifted off course, you said you liked the more focused podcats where we talk about Las Vegas and some of the highlights. As well, many of you said you liked the shorter versions. I agree. They are more timely, they can be more informative for the Vegas Tourist or those who just want to keep tabs on what's all going on here. Throw in an occasional interview or guest and of course, my always unbiased (cough-cough) opinions. Mix that in and call it Mondays with Mark.   Click Here for the YouTube companion for those who want the visuals!

This past weekend the little town that built a dam, that would be Boulder City, Nevada, held its 15th annual Dam Short Film Festival. That's right. Boulder City, that tiny town 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas, has a film festival that also ranks as one of the top film festivals in the world! I know, I was shocked as well. Before it all got going, I had some time to talk with a wonderful lady named Fetalina. Short for Tsvetalina Stefanova. She is the director of development for the Dam Short Film Festival. The interview was held inside the historic Boulder Theater. This building was built in 1931 and for many years, this was the ONLY building around that had that new-fangled thing called air conditioning! It is now owned by Desi Arnez Jr. He is the son of legendary comedian and tv star Lucille Ball. Yes, that Desi Arnaz Jr. Here is my interview with Fetilina and the Dam Short Film Festival!

We are back for the new year!!  Yes, A New Year and a New Podcast!  My wife Debbie Anthony joins me as we talk about a few “Vegas” things before digging into our recent weekend away, out of town. Being the start of a new year, that means I went to the biggest convention of them all, CES 2019.  Saw a lot of cool, if not scary technology and gadgets coming out this year!   We are no longer talking science fiction here folks.  Not even talking about what may be available later this year.  This was all about what we have on the market now or in the next 60 to 90 days and it's exciting as much as it is frightening! The Big Weekend On the weekend of the “big fight” Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner, where rooms at Circus Circus were selling for $250 a night!  Thanks to a tip by our photo friend, Garrett Winslow, we instead headed north. To Hurricane, Utah for the 5th Annual Winter 4×4 Jamboree in Hurrican, UT This was a last-minute idea and one we never encountered before. Being relatively new Jeep owners, it was great to get away from Las Vegas and head out to the rocky wilderness of Utah.  I can now say I am no longer a Jeep newbie as we joined over 600 other off-road enthusiasts at Sand Hollow State Park just outside St George, Utah.  A short, 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, in the shadow of beautiful Zion National Park. There, we communed with nature while experiencing and witnessing some Jeep and off-road adventures with others who were not only uber-friendly to newbies like us, but they were true adventure seekers!

Recently, I had an opportunity to take a small group of people on a special tour to the Grand Canyon National Park North Rim, Bryce Canyon, and finally Zion National Park.  Here is my trip report from the North Rim. The other voice you hear on this podcast is my beautiful and wonderful wife, Miss Debbie! We do start the podcast with little highlights from some recent Death Valley Tours. Yes, I know. They have to be crazy to want to go to Death Valley in the summer.  I think it's for some kind of honor badge or something. But I have done more Death Valley Tours in the last six weeks than I have done all year.  Kind of unusual, but I love Death Valley, so I went along with it….

In this episode, I talk with Mike Nelson, the author of a book titled  “We Are Going In” A book about the June 30, 1956, midair collision between a United DC 7 and a TWA Constellation over the Grand Canyon. Mike's uncle was one of the victims of the Grand Canyon plane crash. A devastating crash that helped change the way we fly today. Last year I came across Mike's book while on tour to the Grand Canyon.  The following day he was going to do a presentation. I was unable to make it back up for that so I sent him an email asking questions and getting some nice replies.  I ordered the book and almost immediately devoured it. Mike's book "We Are Going In” walks us through the entire flight from start to finish and then on to the rescue and recovery.  He puts us in the aircraft(s) and we meet some of the people on the doomed flights. Then he takes us for a look at how air travel was like back then.  The grandeur of it as well as the danger, open skies and how the planes communicated and were tracked or not tracked.  As compared to today's world of aviation where every moment of the flight is tracked. He talks about the different theories that have been created about what might have happened and why.  Looking at them from an outsider's point of view. I call it the “Twilight Zone” method of description.  Stopping in a moment of time and examining the surroundings and explaining the theories as we also look at the location and what was all going on or should be going on. As if we stopped time for a moment and looked into the windows of the planes to see what everyone was doing. I found that to be a fascinating way to look at this tragedy. I hope you do too!

The Las Vegas Sands Corporation, the owners of the beautiful Palazzo and the Venetian Resorts in Las Vegas and Macau, China, has a unique program to help their staff members help guests who may have a problem with their gambling.   Its called Responsible Gaming Ambassadors On this podcast, I talk with Maria-Christina Annaloro, director of Government Relations and Social Sciences at Las Vegas Sands.

Welcome back! Mark and Debbie dig into the always amazing Vegas Golden Knights and PBR's Last Cowboy Standing event.  Then we switch gears and talk about our date night out to see legendary Las Vegas icon Wayne Newton and His new show on the Las Vegas Strip.  It's all good folks!   

This week, we went to see the new show "Tape Face" at Harrah's.  We weren't really expecting much after seeing a few clips of him on YouTube.  However, never judge a Vegas headliner by His tv appearances!!  We came out with mouths sore from laughing so hard.   Plus Debbie and Mark went up to see the concrete arrow on Easter Sunday! Yes, real concrete arrows were where we went searching for.

Welcome back to The Vegas Tourist Podcast.  This episode, Mark, and Debbie Anthony catch up on some of the Vegas Tourist Tidbits.  Get a little opinionated about some of the topics and then get into a great show review! At the Westgate Resort (The old International/Hilton) in the very same theater where Elvis performed, two Las Vegas icons reunite for a night of memories, friendship, and music.  SOUNDTRACK: Your Songs. Our Stories. The Show.  Clint Holmes & Earl Turner. Both of these musicians cut their teeth in the Vegas lounges and both have opened for and were mentored by some of the greatest names in music to ever appear on a Las Vegas Strip marquee.  Individually and together, they have written hit songs, traveled the world, played on Broadway and have won awards for their music.  Best of all, they are friends and it shows in their energy and their love for each other. SOUNDTRACK: Your Songs. Our Stories. The Show. The Show Review begins at 18:00

Last fall, members of the Las Vegas Territory were invited down to Goodsprings, Nevada for lunch at the Historic Pioneer Saloon and to meet the owner who fills us in on its unique history.  Later, I took Debbie down there to show her the little town, do a walking tour and to see the bar where, in 1942, legendary movie actor Clark Gable waited for three days on word of his wife's (Carole Lombard) plane crash on Mount Potosi. In 1932, the two Hollywood legends had married and spent their honeymoon in another nearby ghost filled mining town of Oatman, Arizona.

Welcome to the new year!!  In our first Podcast of 2018, Mark and Debbie head out to Boulder City for the ribbon cutting for the newest attraction, Rail Explorers. Custom designed peddle bikes you ride on the tracks. In this case, its the historic Southern Nevada Railroad Museum in Boulder City you leave from. Peddle 4 miles over some beautiful landscapes to the Railroad Pass Hotel and Casino.  There you get off, get a little rest then wait for the train to come and take you back to the museum.

Welcome back to The Vegas Tourist Podcast.  In today's Podcast, Mark is joined by Minnesota friend and fellow blogger, Jason Hetland from The Rodeo Round-Up. This year has seen some changes to the Las Vegas events calendar and the moving of some dates for sporting events. The NASCAR Victory Lap was moved back a week. The Pro Bull Riders World Finals was moved a month and the National Finals Rodeo is the second week in December.  A week later than past years.  So Jason has been jet jumping back and forth between events. We caught up with each other halfway through the 2017 Wranglers National Finals Rodeo. (WNFR) to talk about all the changes, the winners and the updates as well as seeing what He has been up to in Las Vegas since he arrived.  

This week Mark and Debbie talk about their adventure to the new Marvel Avenger Station Attraction at TI and Mark interviews Sheryl Capil, Marketing manager for the new, high tech attraction. Other Tourist Tidbits include: It's getting cold in Vegas Hiking the Historic Railroad Tunnels Jess Lockwood New PBR 2017 World Champion Rookie Rail Explorers coming to Boulder City! Rock N Roll Marathon next week Caesars new parking fees for locals NASCAR CHAMPS week Vegas Deals NHL Team Rocks NFR Dates Death Valley Gets an Update

This week's podcast I sat down with Nick Nichols for an entire show! A brave soul He is.  Nick owns Photo Tours Vegas and has lived here since the 1980's.  So he has a lot to say about Las Vegas as a former tourist as well as a small business owner who lives and works in Las Vegas

Yes, there really is a wonderful winery in Pahrump.  Besides being home to two famous brothels and the town you pass thru on your way to Death Valley, Pahrump is home to the Pahrump Valley Winery and Symphony Resturant. On this podcast, Mark and Debbie visit the winery, have lunch and interview owner and award-winning Viner, Gretchen Loken  

We Are Back!! Mark and Debbie Anthony tackle some Vegas Tourist Tidbits then it's on to the Las Vegas Territory interview with magician and comedian Adam London.  Adam has been killing it down at the D Resort and Casino for almost 5 years now (that's like 50 years in normal time!) His family-friendly afternoon show is perfect for adults and children looking for a fun way to enjoy your time downtown on the Fremont Street Experience.

Today's podcast is about the Firelight Barn Dinner Thater in Henderson, Nevada. But first, Mark and Debbie get a few other things off the note pile * Bing watching Breaking Bad * Las Vegas is on track to pass last year's 42 million tourists * California woman's $5 bet wins $1.6M jackpot at McCarran (link) * Steve Wynn's Paradise Park update * Las Vegas Vistors and Convention Authority(LVCVA)  gives their CEO a bonus. $700K in pay * Death Valley Update (See Tours) * PBR World Finals Update (PBR Tickets) The little town of Henderson, Nevada, a suburb of Las Vegas on your way to Boulder City and Hoover Dam. Is going through a resurgence as they spruce up the downtown business district.  Attracting new and unique small businesses. One of those small businesses is The Firelight Barn Dinner Theater. Its owner is Las Vegas Territory member Toni Jackson. She and her 4 musically talented kids opened the place in 2016 after spending the last 16 years on the road as The Jackson Family Band and Cloggers! The family-friendly venue offers up a wild west show with the option of a barbeque Dinner and drinks beside the fun entertainment

The Vegas Tourist Podcast Episode #236.  Did you know that Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Planning management is one of the hottest and fastest growing careers right now?  So if you wanted to pursue this career, where else would you want to learn and experience it, other than Las Vegas?? Las Vegas is the epicenter of tourism and conventions.  Holding some of the largest and most popular conventions. Hosting millions of tourists from all over the world.  So Mark Anthony talks with Vivienne Sario, Director of Tourism and Hospitality Management at the College of Southern Nevada about how and why she started the program almost 20 years ago. Plus we talk about all the changes in the marketplace over those two decades and what the changes have done to Las Vegas.

In This Podcast:  Mark Anthony and Miss Debbie heads west for her birthday. We go in search of some western parts of Route 66, see her childhood memories and went to see Magic Mike Live Las Vegas show at the Hard Rock… For an overview of our trip, see Road Trippin' Vegas to LA * Route 66/ Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch * Mitla Resturant/First McDonalds location * Finding the original terminus of Route 66 * Visiting Aquarium of the Pacific   * Magic Mike Live Las Vegas A room filled with bridal parties and other drunk women and only 3 men not part of the staff.  Very talented athletic men who dance, great story line and plenty of activity coming from all directions, even into the audience.  Yes, very interactive, raunchy and funny even for those of us who never saw the movie the show is based on.Being one of only a handful of men not on the staff, it was fun to watch, very good for the voyeur in all of us to see the women in their uninhibited party mode with plenty of peer pressure to get even further into party mode!   The Vegas Territory Interview This episode is more informational.  Hearing from three marketing executives from three of the top show producers in Las Vegas and what they have to offer meeting planners and destination managers. Courtney Parker SPI Entertainment Website:  SPI Entertainment Phone:702.617.9219

This Week, Mark and Debbie talk about their adventures with Las Vegas ATV Tours.  Taking a few hours to ride the Nellis Sand Dunes with some of the best ATV tour guides in the business and enjoying the scenery while getting a bit of a sun tan with the first days of the heat wave in Las Vegas!! (Corey, you were amazing!) Mark sits down and talks with Las Vegas territory member Lorraine Formato – Marketing Director for Las Vegas ATV Tours One of the oldest and most experienced ATV tour companies in Las Vegas. You ride the Nellis Sand Dunes, watch the Nellis jets land and “See Vegas Like Never Before”! No matter your experience level, you can ride the ATV's. The tour guides help you understand the machines and even give you a little riding test before you start to help. Loraine also lets us know they started a second tour company: Las Vegas Hiking Adventures  Offering guided ride or walking hikes into Red Rock Canyon or Valley of Fire State Park Lorraine Formato's Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * Go in and out of as many casinos as possible * Get off the strip, see the sites Valley of Fire/Mt Charleston * Experience the local environment Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * Capo's Speakeasy Favorite Vegas Show(s): “O” Favorite Vegas Movie: Ocean's Eleven (2001)/ What Happens in Vegas   Want More Information on Las Vegas ATV Tours? * Las Vegas ATV Tours 702 750-9751 .. ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

In this week's Podcast, we head out to the west side of Las Vegas and talk with Las Vegas Territory member Taylor Barton about his family's amusement center known as Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix.  Yes, a family owned and family friendly amusement park that features race cars for almost all members of the family as well as some classic amusement rides we all enjoyed growing u plus modern arcade games.  Not to mention it is also very Affordable! Things We Talk About * Being a Las Vegas local, born and raised * Working with your father in a Vegas small business * Benefits of being a Las Vegas Territory member * Being a local attraction for the entire family and perfect for the tourist wanting that “locals” experience * The best snack bar pizza anywhere (it is delicious) * The changing Vegas Tourist and being close to nature   Taylor Barton's Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * Red Rock for hiking * Ziplines/ Exotic car driving * Vegas shows Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * Hedary's Mediterranean Restaurant Favorite Vegas Show(s): Micheal Jackson One Favorite Vegas Movie: Ocean's Eleven (2001)   Want More Information on Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix * Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix (702) 259-7000 ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

In this podcast, we go to the Las Vegas Territory April meeting to get an in-depth look at the international market and it's importance to Las Vegas tourism.  The speaker was Bruce Bommarito, Vice President International Marketing at Caesars Entertainment Corporation. A man who has first-hand knowledge and “boots on the ground” experience when talking about building the Las Vegas brand and how it relates to Las Vegas tourism In past leadership positions, Bruce helped build and support the Las Vegas tourism expansion into world markets. Focusing his presentation on the emerging Chinese and Asian markets. What drives them? How do they view tourism and where does Las Vegas as well as the US fit into their plans? This is NOT a numbers or speculation presentation! Bruce Bommarito is giving us a look into what he knows from his travels to the new markets and his conversations with the travelers coming to America and to Las Vegas. It is what he has learned in dealing with the people and the companies that service the International tourist. YouTube Video . Bruce Bommarito Background * Vice President International Marketing at Caesars Entertainment Corporation Caesars Entertainment Corporation * Executive Vice President – U.S. Travel Association * Executive Director – Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT) Why International Markets are important to Las Vegas tourism * 38% Vegas tourists are International * 80% from mainland China (only 5% of the total Chinese market) 35 % of those tourists are returning Chinese tourists and they want to do more than sit in a casino or ride a tour bus! * International tourists save up longer for the trip, stay longer in Las Vegas and they spend more money per tourist   * India is an emerging market * Adventure travel is going crazy! * Internationa Tourists are more tech savvy * Chinese skipped credit cards 80% digital Payment WeChat and Digital Payment * WeChat Politics and Security * They do not see us as threats or enemies, but as friends in tourism * Chinese government goes after the tour companies that set the tour up if you misrepresent the tour in any way * Chinese travelers take a class on how to be nice * Las Vegas Brand is one of the top 10 brands in the world. People want to come to Las Vegas then to the US! The future of international travel:  They are looking to come to a place then see what's there/here. Not so detailed and planned as before.  More spontaneous   The Impact of China * 450 million middle class * 250 million wealthy * Huawei smartphone third in the world behind Apple and Samsung * Government encourages travel overseas * Travel is the only category where the US has a surplus with China * The United States is the number one destination for the Chinese tourist * They have monuments to American soldiers in China from World War 2 * China views Taiwan as America views Hawaii When you want to work with the International tourist, don't watch CNN, talk to the people   .. ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

This week's podcast shifts gears a little bit.  We are not talking about the tourist side of Vegas, instead, we look to the business and convention side of Las Vegas tourism with video producer and Las Vegas Territory member Richard DePaso of Aardvark Video and Media Production. When you are here in Las Vegas for a convention, you expect to see cutting edge, to be “wowed” and dazzled beyond belief.  It's Vegas and you expect something to be better here than you would find at any other convention.  If you are presenting or have a display at a Las Vegas convention, you need to grab the attendee attention ASAP and make it good.  The power of video can do that.  It can also be used to show off your company to the world, literally, with the use of live streaming and other technology.  You can do that from the convention floor or a Vegas hotel ballroom.  This is what Aardvark Vidoe Productions can do and that we talk with Richard DePaso about. * Aardvark Video began in New York in 1987 than Moved to Las Vegas in 2002 * Major corporate clients, as well as the local small mom and pop shops, use his services * Technology has made video economical, powerful and a necessity * Drones, risk, and reward * benefits of being a Las Vegas Territory member Richard and his wife Ginny DePaso work a lot with another podcast interviewee, The Lion Habitat Ranch.  A popular “Hidden Gem” of Las Vegas   Richard DePaso Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * Lion Habitat Ranch * Get Outside of Vegas “Vegas is Amazing Beyond the Strip” Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * Lion Habitat Ranch Favorite Vegas Show(s): Carrot Top / Cirq Shows Favorite Vegas Movie: Casino/Hangover   Want More Information on Aardvark Video? * Aardvark Video and Media Productions (702) 897-4477 .. ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

For this week's podcast, we venture to the northern part of Las Vegas, actually, Summerlin to talk with another Las Vegas Territory member, Candice Shaffer.  Not only is she a Vegas native, she is also the publisher of My Vegas Magazine.  “The Magazine for Locals” It's always fun to find the unicorns of Las Vegas, those who were born raised and still live in Las Vegas. * We talk about the misconceptions many people have about raising families in “Sin City * The new Vegas resident/business owners being more professional * The fact that publishing of a real print magazine is not dead. In fact, it is growing in some niches like travel and community * Why Vegas is NOT L.A. or Chicago.  Why Vegas has such a different culture * My Vegas Magazine website * Beautiful Bride Magazine   Candice Shaffer Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * See the Strip * Downtown / Arts District * Get outdoor/Outside of Vegas Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * Golden Steer restaurant * Bob Taylor Ranch House * Dino's Bar Favorite Vegas Show(s): Carrot Top / LA Comedy Club Favorite Vegas Movie: Casino   Want More Information on My Vegas Magazine? * My Vegas Magazine ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

This week's podcast we head out to Boulder City and talk with Las Vegas Territory member Brina Marcus of Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City, NV. Boulder City is quickly becoming the adventure capital of Nevada and Flightlinez is in the center of it all.  At the top of historic and beautiful Bootleg Canyon, you are surrounded by breathtaking views of Lake Mead, the Vegas Strip, Mt. Charleston and the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge.  On your adventure down the four runs, you reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour! For Brina, the adventure started out as a tourist visiting from Chicago.  As a fitness instructor, she wanted more and found it with her first trip down the canyon.  After getting her breath back, she asked about employment, she soon got her wish and then some! Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon were also the operators of the original Zip Line on the Fremont Street Experience. From ages 7 to 90, if you can handle a walk up a natural trail with a few switchbacks, you can experience a ride of a lifetime.  We talk about the safety and the thrill of the Zip Line.  Who, how and when to do it and about the various ways you can save a few bucks while getting out of the smokey casinos and into some nature for a day. Hotel pickup or discount if you drive yourself. Flightlinez offers locals discounts and even has a frequent Flightliners club Brina likes to also promote the other wonderful businesses of Boulder City.  Who can blame her?   The little town that built a big dam, or as they like to say “A World Away for a Day” It's a wonderful little town to spend some time in. Show Links * Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon * Boulder City Walking Tour App * Ultralight Dream Catchers   Brina Marcus Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * visit boulder city * visit Fremont Street East * Visit Mt Charleston or Red Rock Conservation Area Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * Cornish Pasty Favorite Vegas Show(s): Mystere/Absinth /Matt Franco / Carrot Top (Show Links) Favorite Vegas Movie: Casino Want More Info About Zip-lining in Boulder City? * Flightlinez Bootleg Canyon .. ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

This Podcast is more on the business side of Las Vegas. Talking about how we get all those tourists and convention people to come to Las Vegas when they have other choices. Today I talk with Jim Higgins, a Las Vegas Territory member and owner of JS Travel Consultants.  His company is one of those that helps people find their way here and find their way to the convention and helps people create conventions and events. So I understand that this may not be your cup of tea, but I ask that you stick it out and listen to how Jim got into the business and worked his way from Florida to Mississippi to Reno then finally to Las Vegas where he decided to finally hang out his own shingle and how that move opened his eyes to who the new Vegas tourist is. If you must skip this one, I will look forward to seeing you back here next week! We also talk about how Las Vegas keeps evolving and moving forward.  How the way Chicago, Orlando and other cities have stepped up their game to take on Vegas for the tourist and convention dollar and how that healthy competition has helped Vegas grow, take on new risks and become even more popular today. Also discussed is the reasons why new venues like T-Mobile and the proposed Las Vegas Domed Stadium will only push the tourist envelope further with new ideas and new entertainment choices that will attract a new crowd of tourists Vegas has never seen before. The business of marketing Las Vegas?  Here is a story of one of those people who fell into the tour and travel business and creating junkets to Vegas then making the jump to living and working in Las Vegas Hey, 43 million tourists that came to Las Vegas last year didn't just show up here by accident. There is a science and a plan to get the attention and the loyalty of a tourist to come and spend their money here and not in other tourist towns. We have junkets, concerts, and themed events.  Conventions and shows that herald the curious and the adventurous to come this way.  Jim is one of those guys who has worked for several decades in perfecting the science of knowing what his clients want and how he can deliver that “experience” they are looking for. * So what is the “Jump rope capital of the world”? (Bloomer, Wisconsin) * How has the market changed? * Hockey will bring a new tourist market, tourist guest – Fans of the opposing team * NFL will add to the revenue boost for new tourism * New venues will add to the opportunities for more events to come to Las Vegas. They are not poaching off each other. * There is an important value in using a travel agent   Jim Higgins Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * Look over Vegas, see what's beyond the Strip * Go see an “only Vegas” and dine in an “only Vegas” restaurant * Go see the areas outside Las Vegas Hidden Vegas Gem(s): * The Steak House in Circus Circus * Container Park * The Lion Habitat Favorite Vegas Show(s): Absinth/Cirq shows (Show Links) Favorite Vegas Movie: Vegas Vacation / Diamonds are Forever Want to know more about JS Travel Consultants?  * JS Travel Consultants ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** Society & Culture Places & Travel Kids & Family

Ok, its been awhile since the last podcast.  The new year is not exactly starting out as I had planned, but it is a better year already! So here we are, recorded on January 20.  Mark's Birthday and the day America gets a new president.  A perfect day for a podcast.  Oh yea, it's also raining outside! * Talking about the CES 2017, virtual reality, Amazon Echo and other things. * Mark's Next Phone will be the LG20 * Vegas tourist record 49.2 million for 2016 * Hoover Dam Tour Story (Tour Link) * NASCAR/ The Big Game / NHRA Today's guest is Las Vegas Territory Member Brenda Hengel. She is the PR Marketing Manager for the Mob Museum.  The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. For some, they don't see this museum for its cultural value.  But these are the people who have never been inside this place. This has got to be on your “Must See” Vegas list. It will It's awesome to walk through.  Give yourself at least two hours to see everything and digest everything.  It does not glamorize either side. It's “just the facts mam”! The interview was recorded inside the Oscar B Goodman conference room. Appropriately enough since this was his pet project as Mayor and it is the place where he tried his first case after moving to Las Vegas Show Links: * Neon Boneyard * The Mob Museum * The Kefauver Hearings in Las Vegas * * NASCAR Tickets * Super Bowl Tickets * NHRA Tickets   Brenda Hengel's Vegas Tourist Tips 3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * Come Downtown * See a Vegas Show * Go see Red Rock Conservation Area Hidden Vegas Gem: The Smith Center Favorite Vegas Show(s): Cabaret Jazz Favorite Vegas Movie: Casino Want More Information About the Mob Museum? * The Mob Museum ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

The end of the year in Las Vegas means a lot of people and several really big events. New Year's Eve will bring 320,000 people in town to celebrate the end of the old year and to welcome in the new year. Then after that, the big “Nerd Fest” shows up. That would be what we normally call The Consumer Electronics Show or as we are suppose to call it; CES2017. New Year's Eve in LAs Vegas is often called “America's Party” and is covered by the networks.  The fireworks will be launched from 7 of the resorts along the Strip.  Plus there will be a ticketed event down at the Fremont Experience.  We will be busy and we will be partying until about 2am on January 1.  Then the cleaning crews hit the streets and by 6am, the Las Vegas Strip is clean and shiny, looking as if  as if nothing really happened the night before. Once Vegas recovers from that party, we open the floodgates again and welcome in 140,000 attendees and exhibitors for what is Las Vegas' largest convention.  The big “Global Consumer Electronics Trade Show”  CES!  Anyone involved in designing, manufacturing, selling or promoting anything that has anything to do with consumer electronics, will be in Las Vegas and at this show.  CES  sucks up almost all the hotel rooms, the event centers and any other place that they can hold a conference, presentation or “meet-up”.  It's here and so are they!   * LV Police Release on New Years Eve Street Closures * Las Vegas Monorail New Years Eve Party * New Years Eve in Las Vegas (Review-Journal) * Get Your Own Amazon Echo .   Jennifer Breed – Director of Marketing at Las Vegas Monorail The Las Vegas Monorail first opened in July 2004.  It travels north and south from behind the Las Vegas Strip.  Starting at MGM and making seven stops ending at the SLS. It's a great way to connect with the other transit options when you need to get from one end of the Strip to the other or to the Las Vegas Convention Station. Being Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Monorail is not what most people would call a typical monorail system.  It's an experience and a different way to experience the Vegas Strip.  Listen to the interview and learn what's new with the Monorail! Listen to the interview and learn what's new with the Monorail! (Vegas Locals can ride the Monorail for $1!) . Jennifer Breed's Vegas Tourist Tips  3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * See a Las Vegas Show * Eat at famous restaurant * Experience Vegas Strip under the lights Hidden Gem(s): Lotus of Siam  Favorite Show(s): MJ One Favorite Vegas Movie: Oceans Eleven/ Hangover Want More Information on The Las Vegas Monorail? * The Las Vegas Monorail ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

A Vegas Vacation was once thought of as coming into Las Vegas and spending your entire trip on the Las Vegas Strip and /or Downtown Las Vegas.  Thankfully that view of a Vegas Vacation is changing as tourists begin to realize we offer so much more than that. Like getting out and kayaking the Colorado River or hiking into the mountains.  Maybe even camping on one of the islands in Lake Mead. Adventure awaits you!! Today's podcast we talk with one of those people who help the Vegas tourist as well as the Vegas local get out and experience the adventure side of Las Vegas.  No matter your skill level or what equipment you may need or already have, they can make it happen. But first… The Vegas Tourist Tidbits! * Caesars starts to charge for parking * Brandon Flowers of the Killers, speak out against charging for Valet * Wayne Allyn Root piece on Paid Parking * Las Vegas Hockey Team trademark rejected * Amazon Echo's in the Wynn * Shopping at the NFR * Maverick Helicopters * The Ride This week, we venture out to beautiful Boulder City and visit Joyce Kehoe of Kayak Las Vegas A full-service desert adventure outfitter!  They can set you up, outfit you and give the permits, the training, and the supplies to go out and enjoy mother nature at her finest.  From Kayak training, rental and tours to camping, hiking, and multi tours, they can do it for you or with you.  Bring your own equipment or rent theirs.  Not sure how? They will train you.  Including desert safety and rescue.   Joyce Kehoe's Vegas Tourist Tips  3 Things Every Vegas Tourist Should Do or See * See a Vegas show * A drive thru Valley of Fire * Do a Hoover Dam Tour Hidden Vegas Gem:  Adventures below Hoover Dam/Lake Mead Favorite Vegas Show(s): La Reve / Absinthe Favorite Vegas Movie(s): Viva Las Vegas / Get Him to the Greek Want More Information about Kayaking and Other Adventure Tours? * Kayaklasvegas.com

This week's Podcast is talking with Las Vegas Territory member,  Julie Westley, Executive Casino host for the Aquarius Casino and Resort in that wonderful little river town just 90 minutes outside of Las Vegas, Laughlin. NV.   Vegas Tourist TidBits * NASCAR Champions Week in Las Vegas * NASCAR Vegas Weekend 2017 * Las Vegas NHL Hockey Team is Named The Vegas Golden Knights * Ceasers  to start charging for parking * Ice skating on the Strip * Chinese New Year Starts on January 28 * CES is January 5-8, 2017   Interview: Julie Westley Executive Casino Host Where: Aquarius Casino & Resort Laughlin, NV Laughlin Nevada was founded in 1964 by Don Laughlin, a Minnesota native. He was looking to establish a family friendly place along the Colorado River. Today, Laughlin has one main street lined with 10 casinos plus entertainment and shopping opportunities! Julie's family came there looking for the cheap meals offered at Don Laughlin's Riverside Casino, plus have some fun on the river. * American Airlines starts daily service from Phoenix to Laughlin on February 16, 2017 * Kiss plays the Laughlin Event Center on April 22, 2017 (Tickets)  * Laughlin area offers many outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities * Close to the last leg of Historic Route 66 in Arizona * Historic Oatman, Arizona is a short drive away * Lake Havasu/London Bridge is a short boat trip away * Laughlin River Run April 26 – 29, 2017 Website The Aquarius Casino and Resort started out as the Flamingo Hilton. They recently had a total renovation and are known as the Aquarius Casino and Resort * 1900 rooms * 96 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites * All rooms have a river or mountain view * 57,000 sq ft of casino space * 30,000 feet of ballroom space * Aquarius Website Want More Information About the Aquarius Laughlin Resort? * Aquarius Website ** This week's Guest Interview is Courtesy of  ** http://lasvegasterritory.com/

Sometimes people think the Vegas Strip hotels are only MGM or Caesars related and overlook some of the smaller, more classy and historic hotels. Today's podcast we talk about the time Debbie and I spent a weekend staying tourist and staying at the legendary Tropicana Resort.

This Podcast interview is a little different in the questions and responses because my guest is a true Las Vegas valley native. She was born and raised right here in Clark County and works in the Vegas entertainment field. You have to admit that growing up in a small town like Boulder City and being schooled in the "big" city of Las Vegas, surrounded by the kids who's families built and ran Las Vegas, kind of skewers your thoughts about the real world! Las Vegas Territory member Bri Steck Bri Steck and husband Adam own and operate SPI Productions - Bri owns and operates Vegas Girls Night Out. A Vegas concierge service for women.

In this podcast, we talk about one of my favorite topics, limousines! Before we do that, Debbie and I talk some Vegas Tourist Tidbits.  Our interview this week is with Las Vegas Territory member Kellie McKinley at Platinum LV Transportation. 

In this podcast, Mark & Debbie talk about playing tourist plus other tourist tidbits. Our interview is with Las Vegas Territory Member Don Contursi, the founder of Lip Smacking Foodie Tours. We got to play tourist!  Stayed at the legendary Tropicana Hotel in the tower suites!  Dinner at the Beach Cafe. Walked to see the Bellagio Conservatory then I surprised Debbie with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower. (Her first time ever there) We ended the night watching all the pretty people find out if the women are really hot enough and the men have the right amount of cash to get into Hakkasan Las Vegas nightclub at MGM Grand.  Trust me, watching the zoo and cattle call pit is a fun late-night experience!

In this week's podcast, we talk with Beth Carden from Black Canyon /Willow Beach Adventures plus other Vegas Tourist Tidbits. Mark and Debbie take our oldest 2 grand-kids on a family-friendly outing to the base of Hoover Dam and under the Hoover Dam By-Pass bridge, also known as The Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. This is where the adventure really begins.  A leisurely 3-hour float ride down the Colorado River for some sightseeing, some communing with nature as well as excellent narration and fun delivered by our Awesome and Amazing tour guide and boat captain, Mr. Jeff! But first, as always, we need to catch up on some of the Vegas Tourist Tidbits:

Have you ever wished you could travel to Las Vegas and have a concierge available at your fingertips?  You can if you travel with Virgin Holidays.  You know,  that airline founded by Sir Richard Branson?  Today's guest is my fellow friend and Las Vegas Territory member Gloria Kritzler.  She is the west coast regional manager for Virgin Holidays Concierge.  But first, we play catch up with Vegas Tourist Tidbits.

The second-largest city in Nevada doesn't always get the respect it deserves.  Even some of its current residents refer to their town by its' nickname “HenderTucky”.  We're talking about the city of Henderson with its former Mayor Bob Groesbeck.

In this podcast, Mark Anthony is flying solo.  His guest for this show is Fawnia Mondey, who is the founder of Pole Fitness Studio of Las Vegas.  A full-service exercise/dance studio that blends traditional exotic pole dancing with rigorous cardio and aerobic workout!  Plus she is the creator behind Pole Expo 2016.

Have you ever wondered what happened to those fun-loving lions at the MGM Grand? In this podcast, Mark and Debbie head to the south end of Las Vegas Boulevard, to visit the lions and talk with Keith Evans, founder of The Lion Habitat Ranch.  Home to the original MGM Resort lions. A sanctuary for the cats that tourists and locals can visit.