Already got my hotel reservations [Archive] - EQ2 Forum Archive @ EQ2Wire

Kela

03-16-2009, 10:13 PM

<cite>Calthine wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite>Kela wrote:</cite><blockquote>I don't know if you looked at the hotel map or not but, if you can get them to put you in the apparently larger North Tower, you won't even have to look at the Casino if you don't want to, as the elevators appear to be in the hallway heading tords the Conferance area.</blockquote>That'd be nice</blockquote>Aye, cause eventhough the Hilton's walk was not as bad as the Rio's those long walks after a LONG day, especally through the Casino, are not fun.BTW, Just because Bally's is offering a VERY good rate for us, that still does not mean you can't get it even cheaper if you go with a Package, so I would recomend going to your favorate travel site and pricing out pakages, also don't forget that Las Vegas has it's own offical travel site, at Vegas.com. So check around for the best deal.::EDIT::Also be aware that some travel sites, include Taxes and other Fees(other then checked bag fees) in there quotes while others do not, so watch out for that.::EDIT2::and yes I got my reservation too... now to get a pyramid for a certain DE. <img src="/station/images/smilies/908627bbe5e9f6a080977db8c365caff.gif" border="0" />::EDIT3::I would highly recomend checking vegas.com's prices befor booking even with your favorate travel site, as it came in ~$30 cheaper for me then going with Orbiz.com for the same flight and room. Don't make the same mistake I did.

MasterCosmo

03-17-2009, 10:12 AM

<cite>Meric wrote:</cite><blockquote>Does that mean we gonna go out for non-alcoholic drinks?</blockquote>for sure <img src="/smilies/69934afc394145350659cd7add244ca9.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Killinga

03-17-2009, 06:15 PM

Just got my flight and hotel reservations.Bally's said internet access was $9.99 for 24 hours use, is this normal? I've never stayed in a big hotel like this but the smaller 1's I have stayed at always had free internet access. Even then this seems expensive when you consider you would probably only use it for a few hours a day at the most.This will be my 1st Fan Faire and my 1st trip to Vegas. I have wanted to go to Fan Faire for several years but never been able to until now. Anything I should know? Anything anyone would reccomend? Do/don't?

Killinga

03-17-2009, 06:52 PM

Bah, can't edit.Just wanted to add that you'd think that being a convention of ONLINE gamers we could get free internet access. Maybe SOE can pull a few strings or something for us. <img src="/station/images/smilies/283a16da79f3aa23fe1025c96295f04f.gif" border="0" />

Ashlanne

03-17-2009, 08:28 PM

Kela

03-17-2009, 09:26 PM

<cite>Killingand wrote:</cite><blockquote>Just got my flight and hotel reservations.Bally's said internet access was $9.99 for 24 hours use, is this normal? I've never stayed in a big hotel like this but the smaller 1's I have stayed at always had free internet access. Even then this seems expensive when you consider you would probably only use it for a few hours a day at the most.This will be my 1st Fan Faire and my 1st trip to Vegas. I have wanted to go to Fan Faire for several years but never been able to until now. Anything I should know? Anything anyone would reccomend? Do/don't?</blockquote>Big hotels like this always charge for internet access, as many people staying in these hotels don't want it, and by charging for it ala'cart they can lower the room rate. Those hotels that have "Free" internet access, usually business type hotels include the price of the internet access in your room rate. Same with the "free" breakfest.As far as sugjestions:<ol><li>plan ahead, there will be lots to do, so figure out what you are going to do and when you are going to do it ahead of time.</li><li>Bring confertable shoes there usually is alot of walking, in most of these hotels.</li><li>either bring snacks you can carry or be willing to miss some events to go get lunch, the schedules are very packed and generally don't include time to eat. however usually there is water available from pictures or a jug.</li><li>stay in the hotel hosting the event, my first fan faire I stayed off-site for the "Free" internet and breakfest... it was NOT worth it. </li><li>Don't be shy everyone is there to have fun and meet people, so talk to everyone.</li><li>If you are going to be there from the first day be prepaired to either camp the Registration line for atleast a couple hours OR wait in line about that same amount of time.</li><li>most importantly HAVE FUN.</li></ol>::EDIT::also if your like me and like to post what is going on the ASAP, that means staying up even LATER and so figure out what your favorate caffine fix is and make sure you have a plentiful supply.<img src="/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Killinga

03-17-2009, 10:06 PM

Thanks for the responses. Never done much travelling and and never been to a fan faire so looking foward to it. <img src="/station/images/smilies/283a16da79f3aa23fe1025c96295f04f.gif" border="0" />

Linyar

03-18-2009, 12:54 AM

Kela's list is pretty good...I strongly agree you should stay in the hotel hosting the event. If you stay off-site, you will have to find transportation to/from your hotel. You may have to leave the Faire while the fun is still raging to find your way to your hotel, and you will have to get up earlier in the morning to figure out your way back to the Faire.If you intend to spend any time in the casino or doing other things besides FanFaire fun, be prepared for several days with little sleep or extend your stay in Vegas. The FanFaire rages on until roughly midnight each night before breaking up at all, and I never find time to hit the casino until then, even though I love casinos. 7:00am usually finds me stumbling, bleary-eyed into my room to grab a few hours sleep before it's time to get back downstairs for the next day's events.The registration line is a couple hours long, but it goes by quickly... talk to people around you in line. You will find you all have common interests, and you'll make friends even before you pick up your badge. Plus the anticipation is great! It's the only two hour long line I've ever stood in and enjoyed.If this is your first FanFaire, expect also to go in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013... etc. You are going to meet friends to reunite with in successive years. If it's your first trip to Vegas, stay an extra day or two to look around the strip and take in a show ($100 per seat is standard admission to the shows--but they are very good).This is my third FanFaire, and I had to call my relatives yesterday to explain why I will not be at the family reunion in the Colorado mountains scheduled for the same weekend in June. They know me well enough to understand. FanFaire is a riot.

Killinga

03-18-2009, 01:20 AM

I am staying at Bally's. <img src="/station/images/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" /> Like I said I've never been to Vegas before. I don't care for casinos, nothing against gambling I'm just not good at it and figure there will be lots of other stuff to see and do. I did reserve a couple days stay before and after Fan faire to check out Vegas also. So, if there's are anything you'd recommend as a MUST see/do while I'm there let me know. I'll probably hit the casino for a few minutes just to say I did but that's about it.

Calthine

03-18-2009, 01:32 AM

My Vegas Travel Checklist includes:Ask the hotel if they have coffee pots in their rooms. Seriously. If they don't, they'll be happy to charge you for one. I brought my own one-cupper last year. No one wants to see me before coffee.Comfortable shoes. Seriously. Can't emphasize this enough.Adapters/chargers for your electronics. The airlines had some rules change about laptop batteries, read 'em.Water bottles! I brought my own and kept refilling them instead of buying. I filled them half full and frozen them in my room fridge every night.If you forget it, Vegas sells it. You'll either over pay or have to travel to find it less expensive, though.

Kela

03-18-2009, 05:30 AM

<cite>Calthine wrote:</cite><blockquote>My Vegas Travel Checklist includes:Ask the hotel if they have coffee pots in their rooms. Seriously. If they don't, they'll be happy to charge you for one. I brought my own one-cupper last year. No one wants to see me before coffee.Comfortable shoes. Seriously. Can't emphasize this enough.Adapters/chargers for your electronics. The airlines had some rules change about laptop batteries, read 'em.Water bottles! I brought my own and kept refilling them instead of buying. I filled them half full and frozen them in my room fridge every night.If you forget it, Vegas sells it. You'll either over pay or have to travel to find it less expensive, though.</blockquote>Yeah, that is one thing I forgot, get your drinks either while seated at a gambling machine, and then they are free - tip or way over pay for it everywhere else in the hotel... unless you go out to the parts of Vegas where people accually live, then the prices are just like any other town. The Resturant food is resonably priced, it is just the gift shop and bar drinks that are way over priced.When I am talking drinks I mean non-alcoholic as I don't drink Alcohol so I can't compaire those prices.::EDIT::Also don't forget your camera, a small digital quick shot is best, as a big DSLR will get VERY heavy after 6hrs or so of panels followed by Smed's Speach. <img src="/station/images/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" />::EDIT2::Also don't make fun of a Dwarfs Beard, those heavy metal stiens are not JUST for carrying Ale. <img src="/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Mekii

03-18-2009, 12:50 PM

Got a dumb question. I don't have a laptop, do people carry their desktop computers to these? If so how would you carry a computer on a plane?

Irish

03-18-2009, 03:18 PM

You don't need a desktop or laptop , if you want some computer time with any of the SOE games; there are plenty of computers there. In terms of email and stuff like that you could probably find an internet cafe, where you could pay for that.Personally I leave the laptop at home,unless you are a fan site or news site or need it for your business; you will find you have very little time to log on.

Sandain666

03-18-2009, 03:59 PM

owma

03-18-2009, 04:04 PM

Got my hotel and Plane reservations. Excited and Ready to go!

Sandain666

03-18-2009, 04:15 PM

<cite>Mekii wrote:</cite><blockquote>Got a dumb question. I don't have a laptop, do people carry their desktop computers to these? If so how would you carry a computer on a plane?</blockquote>I have never seen anyone bring a desktop comp to fan Faire but I guess if someone did it would be in their room where I would not see it anyway <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" /> I guess brining a desktop would be possible to do if you wanted to deal with getting it through security and securing it well enought not to get damaged. Personally bringing a desktop would be too much of a hassle for me. If you are dead set on bringing your desktop you might want to check out the TSA website to see if there are any special requiremens or restrictions.

Praha_Lyr

03-18-2009, 04:34 PM

Booked @ Bally's to make sure I got the room discount. Last year I waited a bit too late and the quota for discounted rooms and paid $80-100 more to be able to stay at the Hilton. Last year was a fun time and looking forward again to meeting some nice people.Looking forward to my Hunter S. Thompson drive from LA to Vegas... "Watch out this is bat country!"

Calthine

03-18-2009, 04:43 PM

<cite>Irish wrote:</cite><blockquote>You don't need a desktop or laptop , if you want some computer time with any of the SOE games; there are plenty of computers there. In terms of email and stuff like that you could probably find an internet cafe, where you could pay for that.Personally I leave the laptop at home,unless you are a fan site or news site or need it for your business; you will find you have very little time to log on.</blockquote>What everyone else said: Unless you have to be online for some reason, you won't need it. I happen to need it, lol.

Kela

03-19-2009, 06:51 PM

<cite>Irish wrote:</cite><blockquote>You don't need a desktop or laptop , if you want some computer time with any of the SOE games; there are plenty of computers there. In terms of email and stuff like that you could probably find an internet cafe, where you could pay for that.Personally I leave the laptop at home,unless you are a fan site or news site or need it for your business; you will find you have very little time to log on.</blockquote>Or are like me a forum junky that wants to be the first to post about cool stuff. <img src="/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Kela

03-19-2009, 06:54 PM

<cite>Praha_Lyrae wrote:</cite><blockquote>Booked @ Bally's to make sure I got the room discount. Last year I waited a bit too late and the quota for discounted rooms and paid $80-100 more to be able to stay at the Hilton. Last year was a fun time and looking forward again to meeting some nice people.Looking forward to my Hunter S. Thompson drive from LA to Vegas... "Watch out this is bat country!"</blockquote>Did you try travel sites like Vegas.com or Orbitz, they tend to be cheaper, even for just the hotel, then calling the hotel directly.

Kela

03-19-2009, 06:56 PM

<cite>Calthine wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite>Irish wrote:</cite><blockquote>You don't need a desktop or laptop , if you want some computer time with any of the SOE games; there are plenty of computers there. In terms of email and stuff like that you could probably find an internet cafe, where you could pay for that.Personally I leave the laptop at home,unless you are a fan site or news site or need it for your business; you will find you have very little time to log on.</blockquote>What everyone else said: Unless you have to be online for some reason, you won't need it. I happen to need it, lol.EQ2 Allakhazam Senior CM</blockquote>I have no Idea why you would need one. <img src="/smilies/69934afc394145350659cd7add244ca9.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Isror

03-19-2009, 07:50 PM

I've booked my plane tickets, I'll be booking the hotel a week from tomorrow.

Isror

03-19-2009, 07:50 PM

<cite>Isror wrote:</cite><blockquote>I've booked my plane tickets, I'll be booking the hotel a week from tomorrow.</blockquote>I plan to be staying at Bally's too

Beadil

03-21-2009, 04:38 AM

Vacation time scheduled: CheckFlight booked: CheckHotel booked: CheckExcitement level: HIGHFYI, I found <a href="http://www.vegas.com" target="_blank">Vegas.com</a> had a slightly better rate @ $59 per staying Thursday thru Monday but... the exceptional rate was thru Harrah's own <a href="http://www.ballyslasvegas.com" target="_blank">website</a> using my total rewards players card. $50 a nite + taxes, fees, etc.. If you happen to have a Harrah's (Bally's) near you, stop in and get a players card.My Itinerary- Arrive Wednesday, leave Monday. Flying <a href="http://www.southwest.com" target="_blank">Southwest</a> there @ $109, flying AA back @ $109 (booked thru <a href="http://www.expedia.com" target="_blank">Expedia</a>).Grand total: $490 for 5 nights. Now, thats a bargin! p.s. I traveling from St. Louis.Is it late June yet??

warslayer

03-23-2009, 06:31 AM

"So, if there's are anything you'd recommend as a MUST see/do while I'm there let me know."If you haven't already been, spend an extra day and take a day trip to see the Grand Canyon.

Isror

03-23-2009, 02:39 PM

Well I've got the plane tickets and the hotel booked today. All we need now is for SOE to open up the registration on-line so I can get the guild to register and we all save 50% on the all weekend pass.

imrahil_donnergroll

03-23-2009, 08:17 PM

Bally's booked, now gotta find a flight under 550 $ ... much cheaper though than last year cause earlier info, thanks for that <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

Kela

03-24-2009, 01:56 AM

<cite>imrahil_donnergroll wrote:</cite><blockquote>Bally's booked, now gotta find a flight under 550 $ ... much cheaper though than last year cause earlier info, thanks for that <img src="/station/images/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" /></blockquote>The trick with Plane tickets is to either book them REALLY early, or REALLY late... and by that I mean like days befor the trip, IF you are flexable in times/dates you can get really good deals that way.

imrahil_donnergroll

03-24-2009, 08:46 PM

<cite>Kela wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite>imrahil_donnergroll wrote:</cite><blockquote>Bally's booked, now gotta find a flight under 550 $ ... much cheaper though than last year cause earlier info, thanks for that <img src="/station/images/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" /></blockquote>The trick with Plane tickets is to either book them REALLY early, or REALLY late... and by that I mean like days befor the trip, IF you are flexable in times/dates you can get really good deals that way.</blockquote>Actually it's 550 € not 550 $, coming from Germany sometimes has disadvantages <img src="/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />.That's also the reason why I can't really wait long: last year prices never went down for the transatlantic flights.

Bry

03-26-2009, 03:23 PM

Vacation booked, place to stay booked (Desert Club resort less than 1 mile from Bally's) and stayinga full week in vegas to enjoy time outside of fan faire as well. Just need to hope for a good airfare soon and I am all set.

katydarl

03-26-2009, 11:43 PM

This will be my first Fanfair since I started playing EQ, just before Velious expansion came out. Luckily, I live just a couple of hours from Vegas. I booked at Bally's for Thursday through Monday because it sounds like I will need Sunday to sleep, lol. I hope to see lots of EMarr people there. I am so excited!

Kela

03-29-2009, 04:30 AM

<cite>imrahil_donnergroll wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite>Kela wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite>imrahil_donnergroll wrote:</cite><blockquote>Bally's booked, now gotta find a flight under 550 $ ... much cheaper though than last year cause earlier info, thanks for that <img src="/station/images/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" /></blockquote>The trick with Plane tickets is to either book them REALLY early, or REALLY late... and by that I mean like days befor the trip, IF you are flexable in times/dates you can get really good deals that way.</blockquote>Actually it's 550 € not 550 $, coming from Germany sometimes has disadvantages <img src="/station/images/smilies/8a80c6485cd926be453217d59a84a888.gif" border="0" />.That's also the reason why I can't really wait long: last year prices never went down for the transatlantic flights.</blockquote>Thats differant International Flights are always overbooked, Demistic however tend to have more empty seats wich is where the good deal comes from...

cres

04-09-2009, 11:31 PM

"Ballys" is very nice hotel and FF weekend rate is very good!There are cheaper class hotels nearby like "Harrahs", "Imperial Palace", or "Flamingo Hilton"Although im not sure they even beat our weekend special rate <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

CTBST

04-10-2009, 01:46 AM

I am set and good to go! Driving in from So Cal so going to stay at Stateline Thur night. Their Mon-Thur rates are cheap. I think its $39 for the night. Then will make the drive in to Vegas Fri morning and will be staying at Bally's. I can't strees how nice it is going to be to stay at the host hotel. This will be my 3rd FF in a row (love Vegas!). First year we stayed at Stateline which is a 30ish min drive from Vegas, its horrilbe to stay so far away. Last year we stayed about 10 min away from the host hotel. It wasn't that bad but sucked having to drive back to the hotel just take a nap and stuff. I think this year is going to be much more convienent.

Pinh

04-10-2009, 10:41 AM

Flights are booked here. However, we're staying at Mandalay Bay for the girlfriend. Looking forward to it!Coming from NC, and staying a few extra days.

Kela

04-13-2009, 08:57 PM

<cite>Pinhed wrote:</cite><blockquote>Flights are booked here. However, we're staying at Mandalay Bay for the girlfriend. Looking forward to it!Coming from NC, and staying a few extra days.</blockquote>Thats not too bad, as it is on the Monorail too I believe, so you don't have to drive anywhere atleast.

turner2

04-27-2009, 02:18 AM

Hi, it is very nice,Thanks a lot.Motel Reservation (http://www.motelreservation247.com)

fishy20

04-27-2009, 03:00 PM

Your everywhere aren't you Meric?

Meric

04-27-2009, 05:29 PM

I try to spread myself around so everyone can get a glimpse of my uberness hehe

princesskitty

05-01-2009, 03:22 PM

If you decide you want to stay somewhere other than Bally's, I'd recommend the Paris. The two casinos are linked, so you don't even have to go outside to go next door. Just prepare for a little bit of a walk.

soehatesshamen

05-06-2009, 02:51 AM

To stay at Ballys where the FF is being held will cost me $355 dollars... for 5 nights...With the SOE "discount" will cost $305...OOOOOO 40 bucks is a god send...Like Soe is doing anyone a favor for 40 whole bucks...I guess its better than staying at the Rio 2 years ago for $149 night. Soe could do alot better,there are alot of hotels who could save alot of money...If you'r looking for cheep rooms try the Gold Coast...40 bucks a night if not under...clean and good to go...I was happy to stay there...and now looking into the Shara at 35 a night...with monorail access...seems the way to go...I can stay at the Gold Coast for 200 dollars less than Ballys...and 200 dollars less to stay at the Shara!! HUM...Take the time to look around...Soe isnt gonna save you much...maybe 40 dollars...

soehatesshamen

05-06-2009, 03:17 AM

I have been to 3 FF's in Vegas...Its getting old...yes I know theres alot to do if you'r a gambler...If not your screwed...I stayed at the Hilton in 05 for $129 NIGHT...then at the Rio for$149 a night and last year for $140 a night..Now they are saying $305 for 3 nights this year...Soe could do SO much better if they looked around.I guess paying $89 dollars is better for the weekend...At the meet and greet they had better food,than the banquet...where they had hot dogs and hamburgers...If you'r looking for a cheap stay...try the Gold Coast or the Sahara...they are both looking at 30 bucks a night..Dont feel like you need to stay at the convention site...I know its easier...but if you cant afford it you can find SO much better than the 40 WHOLE dollars soe can offer...Take the time to look around...I booked a package deal ...flight and hotel for cheaper than what soe was offering...with 2 days extra...and Im not using the soe so called "discount"... Guess I'm saying...take the time to look around...

Kela

05-06-2009, 08:20 AM

<cite>soehatesshamen wrote:</cite><blockquote>I have been to 3 FF's in Vegas...Its getting old...yes I know theres alot to do if you'r a gambler...If not your screwed...I stayed at the Hilton in 05 for $129 NIGHT...then at the Rio for$149 a night and last year for $140 a night..Now they are saying $305 for 3 nights this year...Soe could do SO much better if they looked around.I guess paying $89 dollars is better for the weekend...At the meet and greet they had better food,than the banquet...where they had hot dogs and hamburgers...If you'r looking for a cheap stay...try the Gold Coast or the Sahara...they are both looking at 30 bucks a night..Dont feel like you need to stay at the convention site...I know its easier...but if you cant afford it you can find SO much better than the 40 WHOLE dollars soe can offer...Take the time to look around...I booked a package deal ...flight and hotel for cheaper than what soe was offering...with 2 days extra...and Im not using the soe so called "discount"... Guess I'm saying...take the time to look around...</blockquote>Spaming is not the best way to get your point across, and yes there are FAR cheaper places to stay in Vegas, and there are TONS to do if you are NOT a gambler(I am not a gambler and have had a heck of a time both at the Rio, and at the Hilton). The last night at the Hilton was some fairly good Mexican Food. I don't recall what was served at the last night at the Rio, I just remember not being that impressed.As for SoE finding cheaper hotels, um, SoE looks for Hotels that meets THIER needs as far as Convention Space goes, not alot of hotels, ANYWHERE have the amount of space SoE needs, Heck basied on the schedule it looks like Fan Faire is Filling up the Majority of the Space at Balley's. The fact that they choose a place on the Monorail also makes it easier for those that can't afford to stay at the Event hotel to get to the hotel without needing to get a Cab or Rental Car, both far more expencive.Lastly, just so you know most hotels with the kind of conferance space Fan Faire requires, cost far more then an average of $101.67 a night over 3 nights. BTW, how did you get $305 for three nights? Thursday is $59, Friday and Sat are $79, at the SoE rates. That totals $217 for the three nights.So far they are using the <a href="http://www.harrahs.com/groups-meetings/ballys-las-vegas/blv-meeting-ballrooms.html" target="_blank">Grand Ballroom</a> at 47,000 Sqft and the <a href="http://www.harrahs.com/groups-meetings/ballys-las-vegas/blv-meeting-event-center.html" target="_blank">Event Center</a> at 40,000 Sqft, and that is just for the Leagonds Lounge and the Verious Events(like Smed's Address and Parties). They have yet to post where all the Panels will be Held. Though looking at the <a href="http://www.harrahs.com/images/non-image-assets/blv/meeting-facilities/Ballys_CasinoFloorPlan.pdf" target="_blank">overview map</a> I can find spots for 4 of them. Though consitering how packed certain panels are, like Expainsion Panels and Free for All panels, I am not sure if Bronze 1-4 can handle it all.::EDIT::Accually the Bronze Rooms are included in the 47,00Sqft number. So that means they got room for 4 panels at the same time, the Event Center for the group events, and a Scaled Down Ball Room for the Legonds Lounge. Thats 87,000 Sqft of space, and they still need room for atleast 2 more panels. Not many places have room for that much space, and those that do usually charge more then $217 for Three Nights at the Convention Rate.

Lanlasto

05-06-2009, 10:32 AM

I called and asked them if they would comp me and wife any rooms. Bally's is part of a huge chain of casino's. Wife and I have a Harrah's players card from last visit. They comp'd the two of us 8 free nights at Bally's.

Fromage

05-06-2009, 11:20 AM

<cite>Calthine wrote:</cite><blockquote><cite></cite>What everyone else said: Unless you have to be online for some reason, you won't need it. I happen to need it, lol.</blockquote>hehe.. ditto.Also, another alternative is to make sure that your phone or mobile device is internet ready. I have a Blackberry so I can get my email and browse the web as if I were on my computer and without the need for WiFi. Although, because of the photos and writeups I'll be blogging for ZAM I'm still bringing the laptop.Check with local computer stores and rent-to-own stores. Some rent laptop computers by the day and by the week.While I'll primarily be socializing with my friends and attending the events. I plan to make time for "Vegas stuff" too as it'll be my girlfriends first trip to Vegas. So we're flying in the day before Fan Faire and flying out the a couple days afterwards. So I can get some poker table time in as well as 36 holes on the awesome desert golf courses.If anybody else is bringing their clubs, let me know, I'm trying to arrange a golf tournament for fan faire attendees! <img src="/smilies/3b63d1616c5dfcf29f8a7a031aaa7cad.gif" border="0" alt="SMILEY" />

mewk

05-08-2009, 05:51 AM

When I attempted to get a room at Bally's online from the fan faire registration site, it showed $139 for Friday night (indicating the SOE rooms had all been taken). I called their 800 number and got all nights at the discounted rate without a problem (didn't even have to beg and plead).So if they were "out" of rooms when you made your reservation, give them a call and see if you can get it at the lower rate. You might not want to tell them you already have a reservation until you find out if they have cheaper rooms though. Vegas is hurtin' for business at the moment, so you should be able to get a decent deal.

Kela

05-08-2009, 06:34 PM

<cite>mewkus wrote:</cite><blockquote>When I attempted to get a room at Bally's online from the fan faire registration site, it showed $139 for Friday night (indicating the SOE rooms had all been taken). I called their 800 number and got all nights at the discounted rate without a problem (didn't even have to beg and plead).So if they were "out" of rooms when you made your reservation, give them a call and see if you can get it at the lower rate. You might not want to tell them you already have a reservation until you find out if they have cheaper rooms though. Vegas is hurtin' for business at the moment, so you should be able to get a decent deal.</blockquote>Alot of people are having trouble getting the Fan Faire rate from the website, even back when we fist got a Date/Location. However, I don't know of a single issue with them not being able to get that rate after calling.BTW, I am not getting that rate because I found a Package Deal from Vegas.com that was cheaper in total. The room rate was about the same, but the fight was alot cheaper.

Wyc

05-17-2009, 04:29 PM

Comments -Las Vegas is incredibly cheap to run a convention in. The only other city that comes to mind for being inexpensive is Indianapolis, and Las Vegas has the advantage of a higher-traffic airport. For the person talking about how expensive the Rio and the Hilton were - um...you should really not book through the hotel. I got awesome deals for a 1400 mile flight round-trip (from Indy) and 4 nights both years - right around $500 through one of the travel sites. This year was actually the most expensive, at around $570.Tips for being cheap -Always compare travel site costs instead of just using the airlines and hotels direct. This year it just happened that southwest.com and the SoE special rate (it was still available 2 days ago, just call) was cheaper than the travel sites, but that's not how it was the prior 2 years. Likewise, purchase your airport shuttle ticket online - it's usually cheaper than in-person and has no taxes added. The same can be said for the show's in Vegas and tours.

Calthine

05-17-2009, 04:48 PM

Tips for being REAL cheap: Get a credit card which award travel miles. Use it all year long like cash for, well, everything you can. Groceries, bill paying, everything. the trick is to pay your ballance in full each billing cycle, so you never pay interest.By Fan Fair you should have enough miles to buy the whole trip, including hotel, with miles, free-fer-nothin'.

Kela

05-18-2009, 09:29 PM

<cite>Calthine wrote:</cite><blockquote>Tips for being REAL cheap: Get a credit card which award travel miles. Use it all year long like cash for, well, everything you can. Groceries, bill paying, everything. the trick is to pay your ballance in full each billing cycle, so you never pay interest.By Fan Fair you should have enough miles to buy the whole trip, including hotel, with miles, free-fer-nothin'.</blockquote>This is a very good and usful tip... aslong as you pay off your card the second you get the bill.

Areu

05-19-2009, 11:53 AM

I'm registered at Bally's and me and my 15 years old son are going together. I thik this event will be a positive experience for us. We've never been to a fain faire before and are looking forward to meeting everyone we can and mebbe some of the folks we play with online, kinda put faces to the toons, lol.We were wondering: do people dress up for this??

HeiligHangranate

05-19-2009, 12:21 PM

<cite>Areuhi wrote:</cite><blockquote>We were wondering: do people dress up for this??</blockquote>By "dress up" I assume you mean being in costume. There are quite a few people who show up in costumes, but the majority does not. It's never required, but it is nice to see. There is also a costume contest during the banquet on Saturday night, which is worth seeing or participating in.Some people, like Brasse, are always in costume, but we love them for it.

Wyc

05-20-2009, 10:34 AM

<cite>Areuhi wrote:</cite><blockquote>I'm registered at Bally's and me and my 15 years old son are going together. I thik this event will be a positive experience for us. We've never been to a fain faire before and are looking forward to meeting everyone we can and mebbe some of the folks we play with online, kinda put faces to the toons, lol.We were wondering: do people dress up for this??</blockquote>For the most part - no. I'd say there are maybe 5 EQ characters dressed up on average, but there's also sometimes some Matrix, Star Wars people around. During the costume contest night, there's more, but still not common. The Fan Faire is a great experience, I'd recommend you attend some of the panels, check out some of the new game panels, the community dinner is neat, and attend the community address at the least. The party is also fun - it's usually 21+ only though, but it may not be this year. In atlanta in 06 it was in a club about 4 blocks from the hotel, in las vegas in 07 it was in a club on top of the rio (awesome view), in las vegas in 08 it was at a sort of complex, that included rock walls, games, and kart racing. Reading info this year made it seem like the party may be able to be attended by children this year, so they may have it in the same place as last year. That place definitely could have been ok for kids - as long as you realize alcohol is going to be served, and that not everyone there might be kid-friendly (has been all the years I've been though). Might be worth reading, I barely glanced over it.There's some great restraunts in Vegas, and some great shows - all worth seeing. It might be neat for you to take a trip to the Hoover Dam or one of the plane/chopper rides. I'll warn you though that despite the rumors of free food in Vegas, that it's actually fairly expensive to eat there. I guess I've never really buffet hunted in Vegas, but anything from snacks to deli food to breakfast-style diners to a grill is fairly expensive (oddly enough, alcohol is reasonably priced), let alone the "nice" restraunts. Oh, as a side note, the ATM's are freakin expensive, so beware. I'm from the Midwest though, where everything is cheap as hell, so it may be more normal for some people. You CAN vacation there fairly cheap though - and the Fan Faire plus the pool/walking around the strip/etc will be enough entertainment IMO. In the more distant past, when there was really only EQ and EQ2 at the Fan Faire, it was hard to fill some time slots. Now, with more games, it's pretty easy to JUST do the Fan Faire.It helps to have a few people you know there, but if not, everyone I've ever met is really friendly. I always have friends/people I know there, but it's pretty common to run across fellow Fan Faire attendees in the hotel, and end up talking over lunch or the like. You'll also see developers around, and they're pretty darn friendly. All in all, I've always had a blast.

Irish

05-20-2009, 10:45 AM

The party is in the convention area this year and there is no age limit , there will be wristbands though given to those over 21 to be able to drink. I believe this year they are doing it that way since the party is really the big 10th anniversary of the franchise birthday celebration.Vegas does have a lot of cheap and good food just not on the Strip, that stuff is all pretty much in the downtown area.

Beadil

05-21-2009, 03:36 AM

<cite>Areuhi wrote:</cite><blockquote>We were wondering: do people dress up for this??</blockquote>If you mean "Formal" or "Casual", you'll see all varities from shorts, holy t-shirts and dirty sneakers to sports jackets and thats fine. I don't recall any tuxedos *chuckle. Be comfortable. Personally, I enjoy "dressing up" in Vegas.

Kela

05-21-2009, 03:48 PM

<cite>Irish wrote:</cite><blockquote>The party is in the convention area this year and there is no age limit , there will be wristbands though given to those over 21 to be able to drink. I believe this year they are doing it that way since the party is really the big 10th anniversary of the franchise birthday celebration.Vegas does have a lot of cheap and good food just not on the Strip, that stuff is all pretty much in the downtown area.</blockquote>Accually I believe it was a venue limitation, not a limitation that SoE had. Basically, the Venue didn't want to take on the added risk of underage people getting access to booze... that is a good way to get your whole place shutdown. In this case the hotel and/or the hotel are willing to take the addtional step of age verification(via wrist bans) wich will allow under 21 people to attend.