Planning for the WSOP
As we are all aware, the WSOP is just around the corner. There are thousands of players that will come out this year to the World Series of Poker for the first time and are not quite sure what to expect. I figured I would take some time and give you some tips to help you out in your stay.
First, you need to decide on a couple of things. Where are you going to stay and how are you going to get around Vegas? The Rio will only have a limited number of rooms and as a result, you will need to find some accommodations. For those that are planning on staying in Vegas for the entire duration of the WSOP, a short term apartment or condominium may be an option, provided you can afford the expense. If you are going to be staying with several people, this would probably be best.
Another option would be an extended stay hotel such as Crestwood Suites. Personally, I stayed in Crestwood Suites for a few weeks in 2007 during the WSOP. I paid what equaled $50 a night for my stay, but there were some advantages. First, there was unlimited free internet service. Next, the place I was staying was basically a glorified one bedroom apartment with a full kitchen. As such, I could cook my own meals and could save money on food.
If you do not have as long of a trip planned, check out I4vegas.com and see what deals you can find on there. Sometimes you can find some really good deals for properties around Vegas. You might even be able to get some extra perks, such as a fun book or free play at tables. Some properties you might want to check out are the Fremont Street properties. They may not be as glamorous as the Rio, but you can find good rates. Also, as a tip, the 4 Queens’ rooms are very nice for what looks like a run down hotel. They were renovated a few years ago and are complete with pillow top beds and plasma TV. I was there in December and really enjoyed my stay.
After figuring out where you will stay, you need to figure out how you will get around Vegas. If you are only going to be around a day or two, then a cab may suffice for your stay. If you are staying longer, rent a car. A tip for those getting a car, try and stay away from renting from the airport. The rates will be higher due to all the taxes and fees. Try and rent from one of the local Enterprise Rent a Car places or something similar. Another alternative would be to bid on your car at Priceline.com. I was able to get a full sized car for 20 days in Vegas for $400 in December.
Next, it is time to setup a budget for your trip. I know this sounds counterproductive to having a good time, but you will find out quickly that things can become very pricey very quickly in Vegas. Set aside some money for souvenirs and such. Also, realize that you will be paying a premium for items purchased at the Rio. Don’t go crazy buying WSOP merchandise if you have a limited budget. I was lucky enough to be able to use some comp money to buy my WSOP gear last year, but not everyone is so lucky.
A tip for buying souvenirs would be for you to check out Bonanza’s, also known as the World’s Largest Gift Shop, on Las Vegas Blvd, just beyond the strip. This store has an amazing selection of gifts. There are also a ton of cheaply priced gifts for those on a budget. Also, check out the gift shop on Fremont Street that is diagonal from Binions. They have a good assortment of gifts as well and some shirts you won’t find at Bonanza’s. Those are the two best souvenir shops to go to on the cheap.
Finally, be mindful of your poker money. If you are planning on taking large amounts of cash to play with to Vegas, consider contacting the Rio or another casino about doing a wire transfer of funds to the casino. The casinos are normally willing to do this for you free of charge and all you have to do to get your money is go to main cage and present your ID. I have taken advantage of this option two of the years I went to Vegas. It provides an extra safety measure for you in case you get mugged or robbed.
Also, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There are security and police readily available and if you do not feel safe going somewhere, ask for an escort. You ladies out there that may be going alone to the WSOP will also want to take heed of this. Security guards are there to provide a service. Make use of them. Guys also need to watch their backs as well. The only time I have had any trouble in Vegas was when two women in a large truck approached me for money and then proceeded to follow me through the parking lot. They took off when the security truck pulled around the corner. The key thing to remember is be alert and be careful.
Of course, the above situation is one time out of three years that I have been to Vegas, and it was late at night in an “abandoned” parking lot. Overall, the times I have been in Vegas have been awesome and those of you that are going to the WSOP will have an awesome time as long as you properly plan your trip. Good luck and hopefully I’ll see you around the tables.
Related posts:
- Rumors Circle Regarding WSOP Move from the Rio Last month, Harrah’s revealed that there is a possibility that...
- WSOP Changes I Would Like Implemented Jack Effel has been stating lately on his twitter that...
- WSOP Europe Reflections I must admit that the World Series of Poker Europe...
- Where to Play Texas Holdem This video discuses where to play Texas Hold’em Poker....
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.