MGM's New Entertainment District | Gaming Industry News

Fun in the sun!

Seems like every big gaming industry company is jumping back on the attraction wagon. There are tons of new and exciting things to do being planned for Las Vegas in the next few years. Everything from Skywheels to Mini Amusement Parks! Read more about what MGM is planning in this article from the Casino Journal:

MGM Resorts International revealed details about the entertainment experience it is creating in Las Vegas surrounding the 20,000‐seat arena it is co-developing with renowned stadium organization AEG. Plans include new Strip-side experiences at New York‐New York and Monte Carlo resorts and a public park leading to the new state‐of‐the‐art arena.

Enlivening one of the city's most exciting intersections, MGM Resorts will create an experience that encourages social interaction and one of Las Vegas' best‐known pastimes—people‐watching. Providing opportunities for visitors to enjoy Las Vegas outdoors, this plaza will connect New York‐New York and Monte Carlo as well as the newly announced arena on land behind the resorts. Construction will begin on the outdoor experiences at New York‐New York and Monte Carlo in the coming weeks, with anticipated completion in early 2014. 

 “All great cities offer vibrant pedestrian experiences, and Las Vegas is certainly no exception, as The Strip is one of the world's greatest boulevards,” said Jim Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International. “Our vision is to extend the excitement we traditionally create within our world‐class resorts outside onto The Strip, and ultimately in an entertainment district leading to our new arena.

The front facades of New York‐New York and Monte Carlo will be transformed into an outdoor plaza experience featuring a series of casual bars, eateries and retail destinations. New York‐New York will modify its skyline and Brooklyn Bridge to create a wonderful environment brought to life through a vibrant patio culture and retailers new to the market. Anchoring the new experience will be Hershey's Chocolate World flagship store, a two‐story interactive, experiential destination that celebrates Hershey's‐branded products.

At Monte Carlo, the current formal European‐style exterior features will be removed to make way for new partners, including Double Barrel, a casual roadhouse restaurant and bar concept by the leading hospitality experts at sbe.

Between the two properties and leading back to the company's new arena will be a park environment featuring dining pavilions and performance spaces complemented by areas for quiet relaxation.

MGM unveils plans for new Las Vegas entertainment district - Gaming Industry News - Casino Journal

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

Got Comps? | 3 Easy Ways To Becoming A Casino VIP

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

Casino Perks 101

Free Stuff For Gambling!

Getting something for free is great. Everyone loves free stuff. Gambling at casinos earns you tons of free perks like free buffets, free hotel rooms and even free airfare. These are called comps short for complimentary. People do not realize how easy it is to take advantage of these comps and are amazed at how simple it is to do once they find out. 

Here are 3 very easy ways to start getting comped on your next trip to the casino.

Tip #1 Get Carded - 

The very first step is to sign up for a players card. Players cards keep track of your play on machines and at the tables. If you play slots there is a spot to swipe or insert your card (just make sure your card is accepted and make sure you insert or swipe it before putting money into the machine). If you play tables, give your card to the dealer or floor person and ask them to rate your play. Players cards are free and all you need to do is go to the players club representative (usually by the casino cage) and give them your id and presto you are ready to rock.

Tip #2 Choose Wisely - 

Decide which casino you want to play at and then concentrate all your play there. It is very difficult to earn anything when you hop from casino to casino. Unless you are playing for big bucks jumping around to different properties will not add up quick enough for you to enjoy any real comps. So find one (usually the one you are staying at will be the best choice for you to see real perks) and stick to it.

Tip #3 The Long Haul - 

The biggest misconception people have concerning comps in casinos is they are not going to be high rollers so it is not worth signing up for a players card. People do not realize that casinos rate your play based on two terms. First is how much of your money you are playing, although playing back money won is a factor casinos care more about how much of your cash you put into action. Second is length of play, playing smaller amounts for a longer period of time will definitely add up to free stuff for you.

So it would be wise to take advantage of the comps available by signing up for a card, playing at one casino, and playing smaller for longer. These quick tips allow you take advantage of great offers and give you amazing added value to your casino trip.

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

  

You Cheap Bastard! | 5 Ways To Stretch A Buck In Vegas

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

Here Come The Buck Stretchers! 

Whatta Loser!

Casinos in Las Vegas, NV are built by the losers that is no secret. They are the size of modern day castles and every game you play has a house advantage built in. 

The casino's goal is to squeeze every dime out of you and leave you feeling like you had a great time. When you walk into the casino you should expect to lose. That being said lets explore how you can stretch you money in Las Vegas.

Here are 5 Quick Tips to help you spread the wealth.

Tip #1 Go Local - 

Playing at casinos that are located off the strip usually nets better comps and cheaper food. They are designed to cater toward the local players and try to keep them coming back by offering such good deals.

Tip #2 Coupons - 

Casinos offer tons of match plays and discount coupons for playing on their property or sister properties. Just ask the players club representatives for any discount books or pamphlets they are offering.

Tip #3 Don't Go Big - 

The slots or promotions with the highest payouts are the toughest to win. Stay away from the lure of high jackpots and you will see your dollars staying with you longer.

Tip #4 Learn Poker - 

If you are going to be seduced by the ring a ding ding of the slots, at least play Video Poker. The Video Poker machines can not have their odds changed and since poker is a game of skill you have a better chance of winning. Same goes with table games, Poker has no house advantage since you are playing against the other customers. The casino only takes a percentage of the pot so you have a huge advantage if you know how to play Poker.

Tip #5 Be Odd - 

If you find yourself yearning to play other table games besides Poker, stick to ones that have better odds like Blackjack, Craps and Roulette. Games like 3 Card Poker, let It Ride and Caribbean Stud are all called Carnival games for a reason. They have horrible odds and huge house advantages.

Going to Las Vegas is fun. It can also be overwhelming. Stick to these tips and get as educated as possible before you go and you will be able to stretch your money as far as possible. Hey it is Vegas you might even get lucky and win a jackpot but do not count on it.

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

Casino Etiquette 101 | Online Casino Tips

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

Tips Casino Patrons Should Know! 

Online Casino Tips To Live By:

Lately there have been a few incidents happening in the casino that I feel I should address. Sometimes when people go gambling at a casino they forget where they are and loose their manners. 

People are basically good at the core level so this is just a quick list to remind casino patrons about a few of the rules when you are belly up to the tables. 

Here are 5 quick tips to help you bring back the charm:

#1 No Slamming - 

If you can not afford what you are betting then do not bet so much. Angry players who slam chips and flail their arms in contempt of a hand that they "should have won" are not pretty sites. It causes disruption, stress and most of all it makes you look out of control. Think James Bond, stay focused and do not let them see you sweat!

#2 No Cussing - 

What is this the half hour comedy hour? Are those four letter words supposed to make us think you are tough? Do not drop every foul mouthed word in the dictionary because you are losing. Have some class.

Dirty Mouth?

#3 Blowing Smoke - 

Hey we know it is a casino and not everyone is a non smoker but please be considerate of the fellow table players. It can be quite squished at a table. If you are a smoker please make sure you use the ashtrays provided, not a cup, or table or the floor. Be considerate of others and the dealer and try to blow your smoke up towards the ceiling. Generally most casinos ask you to refrain from smoking pipes or cigars at the tables as well.

#4 Hold Up - 

This is probably one of the most complained about issues in the casino, if a player or players are on a run of good cards please either wait until the shoe is over, or ask if you may join. It is true that you may jump in and out as you see fit unless there is a "No Mid Shoe Entry" sign, but it is very rude. Think about what you would do if the roles were reversed and you were finally on a heater and someone jumps right in and messes up the flow?

#5 Nothing to See Here - 

If you happen to walk by a table that is on the main floor and a player is betting pretty heavy, do not stop and stare for an obsessive amount of time. It is cool to watch people playing more money in one hand than most people make in a month, but fight the urge to over stay your welcome. It makes the player very uncomfortable and stressed, not to mention it makes you look ignorant. Most players utilize the High Limit Salons but occasionally you will see a whale firing it up among the fish, just take a peek and keep it moving!

Casino etiquette is more about common sense than anything else really. Think about how you would act or what would you do if the roles were reversed and you will realize what is appropriate. A lot of people are overwhelmed by all the things casinos have to offer, so they might not know that they are practicing bad etiquette. Just ask them nicely to stop doing whatever it is that they are doing that makes you feel uncomfortable and I am sure they will oblige. (If not there is always security around.)

What other casino no no's do you see in the real world? 

Tell us below!

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

Who Do I Tip? | Casino Gratuity

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

6 Casino Workers That Love Playing Just The Tip! 

Do I Tip Everybody?

If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, NV you need to know who to tip and how much. Do not get put off on how many people work for tips, instead realize the wealth of knowledge available to you for mere dollars.

It is like having your own personal tour guides to the city for a couple of bucks.

Here are 6 people who will be of great help if given a little incentive.

#1 Cab/Limo Drivers - 

These are the backbone of the city. They are extremely connected and have their fingers on the pulse of whats going on, where the hot spots are and who can get you in. To maximize their potential I suggest 15% of the fare. Well worth the investment.

#2 Bell Hops - 

A little goes a long way with these people. Do not make the mistake of trying to carry your bags by yourself, these casinos are as big as malls. Think of the stress you will not have for a $2-$5 cost.

#3 Valets - 

Back in the mob days valets controlled the town. They had all the connections and could get you anything you wanted! They would even have to practically bribe their bosses to get the good shifts because they made so much money in tips. Things have calmed down a bit but these hard working car runners are still a great resource for what you need to know and who you need to talk to when you need something. Average tip $2-$5.

#4 Bartenders/Waiters - 

No need to tell you why you need to tip these mixologists and servers. For great service, conversation and a healthy splash of the good stuff you should tip $1-$2 per round.

#5 Slot Change Person - 

If you win a hand payed jackpot, figure on 3-5% (10% if you're a baller!) of it to insure good karma. These people are very attentive and will go the extra mile for you if you treat them right. Then take your remaining winnings and go!

#6 Casino Dealers - 

Playing table games with live dealers is a great time. Dealers like bartenders are a wealth of knowledge and usually are great conversationalists. They have the ability to offer great tips and gambling advice that could lead to big winnings at the table. Players who tip are often called George's which comes from the reference to one dollar bill. There are two ways to tip your dealer, one is called a hand in which means exactly that you give the dealer a tip. The other is betting for them, most casinos let the dealer bet their tip with your hand and if you win they get double. Just ask them which they would prefer. When tipping your dealer it is a good rule to bet the next denomination down from your bet for them. Example you bet $5 then bet $1 for them, you bet $25 bet $5 for them and so on. Of course no dealer expects you to tip if you are losing.

There are so many people in the hospitality industry that rely on tips. Remember that it is a service industry and if the service is not good then do not feel obligated to to tip, but if the person has offered a great service and was entertaining or helpful give a little and you will get a lot! Just don't be a cheap bastard and everything will be alright!

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

5 Ways To Tell If The Blackjack Table Is Hot Or Not

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

Want An Insider Tip That Could Be Worth Tons-O-Cash? 

When you step into a casino the bells are ringing, lights are flashing and you can feel the energy in the air. You have a fist full of dollars and a mission - to win big at a casino table.

As you walk around the casino tables circling your prey like a hungry jungle cast, you start to get more and more confused, now you are dizzy and just need to sit. 

Problem is that table is ice cold. Five minutes later you are broke and left what the heck happened? Well you have just fell victim to one of the many techniques the casino uses to get your money (overwhelming you). 

To make sure you stay focused and this does not happen to you here are 5 quick ways to see if a casino table is hot or not.

#1 Jam Packed - 

Look for a casino table that is crowded. A full casino table is usually a casino table full of winners. The energy is good and people are waiting in line to get a seat at this hot table. * Just make sure it is not because it is the $5.00 casino table, some people are just plain cheap!

#2 Pearly Whites - 

Look for smiles at that crowded casino table. It could be crowded just because the casino is busy that night, maybe the association of car wash executives is in town and there is not a seat left in the whole casino. Smiles indicate a good time and winning is definitely a good time. Even if the smiles are because people are having fun and not striking it rich, you are going to feel a lot better when you are playing (it is called the gaming industry after all)!

#3 Stacks of Checks - 

Look at the casino dealers tip stack. If they are giving the money away there should be a pretty healthy pile of chips over behind the discard rack. Usually the casino makes them color up the tokes so that people can not use this tip to their advantage, but most casino dealers will wait until told to this (because it is not their money, so they want you to win)!

#4 Nice Rack - 

Look at the casino dealers rack of chips in front of them. If it is empty and the chips are in front of the smiling faced crowded casino table customers, chances are you want to grab a seat and plant some roots. This is also a great way to see if the casino table is hot, if the casino dealer has been told to start coloring up and dropping his tips this could be another strong indicator. Empty racks are a great sign of a hot casino table!

#5 Mr. Pit Boss - 

Look to see if there are a lot of managers around. This is an awesome tip to know because if the casino table is hot, the casino table dealer has been told to drop their tips, the smiling people at the crowded casino table are hiding their stacks (some people do not like advertising a hot table), and security just brought a fill so the rack is no longer empty you would not think to sit at this casino table. If there are a couple of extra floor men watching the casino table though you might want to pull up a chair and order a drink because this is going to be a hot casino table!

So you see there are a lot of factors that come into play when looking for a seat at a casino table. Fight the urge to just sit anywhere because it is overwhelming. A little research plus a healthy knowledge of what signs to look for, could have you sitting smack dab in the middle of a heater!

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.

Stop Gambling With These 5 Emotions!

Bryan Fulton | World Renowned Casino Dealer

I Get So Emotional Baby! 

Its Called Gaming For A Reason, Its FUN!

Whether you want to have a good time or take down the house, casino gambling can go from fun to frustrating in 0-60. 

So in order to be in control you have to be able to recognize where the edge is. Casinos will take you to that edge, and past it.

Get A Grip On These 5 Emotions:

#1 Fear - 

The newbies can relate to this one. You talk about winning, you dress to impress, and when you belly up to the table you freeze in complete terror. You start to sweat, people are staring at you because it is your turn to roll, or hit, or bet. The way to get past fear, is familiarize yourself with the games and the casino. Go through and just watch a couple of games, do not feel pressured to sit at first. If the game has no players ask the dealer how to play. Get comfortable before you start.

#2 Greed - 

This is for everyone and probably should have been number one. You have to set a limit and stick to it. You will not beat the house. Their pockets are too deep. Brace yourself and pace yourself. Know when it is time to get up. Do not go overboard when betting. Greed is a hard beast to tame, employ time limits to keep yourself out of trouble.

#3 Anger - 

When you play too long and way out of your means, greed can quickly turn into rage. You can not lose your cool in a casino. No one wants to see you slamming the table and screaming at the dealers or waitresses. It makes it uncomfortable for everyone around you. If you are losing, just get up. You can go back but just remove yourself from the situation. You are probably a nice person under different circumstances, fight the urge to turn into the hulk!

#4 Jealousy - 

You want to know why that person hit the jackpot? They played the right machine at the right time. Wondering why this person gets those coupons? They acquired them through extensive play or signed up at the players reward zone. Casinos are not trying to leave you out. They want you to feel as comfortable as possible so you let your guard down. There is no conspiracy, just ask how you can start to enjoy the perks you see others have. Do not assume, be proactive.

#5 Arrogance - 

There is a lot to be said about high rollers not wanting to play with others. They want to be in as much control of their money as possible. That being said if you are not a high roller and are not playing in the high limit salon or pit, then do not think you own the casino. Do not tell other players how to play their hands. Do not tell them where to sit and not to talk to you. Do not be a jerk. If you want to play big money get a private table, if you can not afford it then do not act as if you rule the world. 

All in all casino gambling can be a lot of fun. The atmosphere is energetic, the people are excited and there is a buzz in the air (no it is not oxygen pumped into the casino). Losing or winning money is definitely emotional. Just do not let it get the best of you!

Author: Bryan Fulton | Bryan Fulton comes from a family full of casino industry professionals, from casino managers, and dealers to special event planners, and slot host organizers. He has worked at many different styles of casinos from the old world era riverboats of South Carolina to the luxurious mega resorts of fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada! Bryan has years of experience in all the casino table games, he has dealt over a million hands (and counting) of blackjack, roulette, craps and the carnival games. His skills have landed him highly paid jobs in some of the busiest casinos around. Bryan Fulton has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Vegas Dealers II in which he is seen demonstrating various dealing techniques. He has been called upon to train many of the new hires that casinos bring up through the ranks internally. Bryan Fulton has personally coached thousands of customers on effective playing strategies as well as his secret winning strategies.