Tag Archives: SLS

Comps & Players Clubs, Gambling

Players Club Return Rates

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When comparing players clubs, there are many factors to consider; tiers and tier benefits; value of room and event offers; partnerships; comp return rate. Some clubs are better in one department than another. You should factor that in when choosing where to play.

Today I look at the return rate.  To determine the rate, I’m using the base earning rate for points and the rate at which those are converted to freeplay and “pay with points” comp value. As a general the VP return rate does not apply to “fullpay” video poker or games with 100% theoretical returns. I am not including multipliers unless they are good for all tiers at all times. Most players clubs give you an accelerated earning rate at higher tiers. Continue reading Players Club Return Rates →

Discounts, Hotels

SLS Overview

Update: In August 2019, SLS was renamed back to The Sahara. They realized that name had a lot more value in Las Vegas than SLS.

This post is from when it was still SLS.

I’m always a little sad when a piece of Las Vegas History disappears. I was able to experience the Sahara a few times and even stayed in one of their suites. It had been on a long downward spiral before closing, though, and was a dubious low-roller choice near the end.  The SLS has changed that. The basic structure (including the room footprint) is still the same, but everything else is new. The rooms are completely remodeled. The dining options are great and all of the stores are upscale.

Continue reading SLS Overview →

Hotels

Hotel Check In Credit Card Holds

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(updated Oct 28, 2023)
When you check in to a hotel, they usually ask you for a credit card to have on file for incidentals and as a security deposit.  When they do that, they pre-authorize the card for additional charges. The amount varies from hotel to hotel and is usually multiplied by the number of nights you are staying.
This has been standard practice for a long time, but I have heard multiple stories recently of people being caught off-guard by the pre-authorizations as well as not fully understanding what they are.  The pre-authorizations or “holds” are not charges. They simply reserve a certain dollar amount on your card so that it is available when you check out and pay your bill. It is similar to what gas stations do when you pay at the pump. The pre-authorization is not an actual charge, but it does reduce the amount of credit available on your card.  Continue reading Hotel Check In Credit Card Holds →