Las Vegas Freebie: MGM Grand Lion Habitat

I'll admit it: One of the things I love about las Vegas is that there's so much to see, do, and experience for FREE! On my most recent visit I went to visit the Lion Habitat at the MGM Grand Hotel. I had mixed feelings about the lion-fest and here's why:

Lion Habitat Description from MGMGrand.com:

To honor the lion and help safeguard its preservation for future generations, MGM Grand Hotel and Casino has created a one-of-a-kind Lion Habitat as a showcase for public education and appreciation for this majestic creature of nature. The lion has been a part of the MGM heritage for many years, beginning with the legendary Leo, whose roars have welcomed generations of moviegoers to epics of the silver screen.

The lions live in custom accommodations on an 8.5-acre ranch 12 miles from the MGM Grand. They are owned and cared for by noted feline expert Keith Evans, who has been training exotic animals for more than 30 years.

Sounds cool, right? Well the description I had read in one of the little Vegas guides in our hotel room touted "a collection of exotic felines from around the world". You can imagine how disappointed I was to only find two female lions chillin' in the habitat. Had I read the above description, I would have been thoroughly satisfied with my little lion adventure.

I was as close to a lion as I've ever been in my life! There is a tunnel in the habitat with a 1.5 inch thick glass ceiling. Two female lions were on that ceiling being monitored by their caretakers; one lioness was sleeping while the other chewed on a giant rawhide bone. Being that there were only inches between myself and the lounging lionesses, I had the rare opportunity to appreciate their majestic form up close. It gave me a rush to be in such close proximity to two "Queens" of the Jungle.

If you're looking for some free fun in Vegas, I recommend stopping by the lion habitat to appreciate some of the world's most beautiful and revered creatures.

Habitat hours are 11am to 10pm daily

Construction, Traffic and the Monorail in Vegas

"What were they thinking?" said my taxi driver. March is the busiest month in Vegas, convention season I gather. And so my driver wondered what the hell they were thinking doing constuction during the busiest month of the year. I'm thinkin', hey at least they are supporting the economy.
And so it was that 2pm became rush hour. The strip was at a practical standstill.

Our conversation turned to the monorail system. Apparently there was a proposal to make the monorail a subway system under the strip. It was rejected. Instead the monorail system runs behind the casinos on the eastern side of the strip. The usual casino tactic of making you walk thru everything to get to it was enforced. Unfortunately as a result, the monorail doesn't seem to be doing too well.

Finally, the limit of casinos power seems to have been reached. If people have to walk to get them to save on walking... they just want to walk without having to pay for it. Sorry Vegas, you should have built a subway.

Las Vegas: Where Old Stars Go to Die

We've all seen it the aging stars going off to do shows on the Strip. And maybe its just because I'm getting old myself the some of the stars seem too big to be in Vegas to me. I don't think of Elton John as aging even thought the facts must be accepted. And when we asked at the Bette Midler show if she saw people after the show, they laughed and said "No, she is 62 you know." Sixty two... wow, no, actually I didn't know. And so I realize time is rushing on.

While I expect to see Donnie and Marie in Vegas. Not so much with Seinfeld. I guess Vegas is the center of the comedy universe after you've conquered TV. I was still surprised. And I realize Cher is classic Vegas fare. And I still think more of her than that.

But I'm thinking I should come back just to catch the old stars before they go....

The Wynn Resort and Encore, Las Vegas

The Wynn Resort and its accompanying Encore hotel are the lap of luxury in Vegas. Loaded with accolades and awards, the Wynn lives in a rarefied field and shines. An absolute beauty from the fabulous golf course to the beauty of the hotel itself. Wynn is luxury in Vegas.

I call it a mix of Alice in Wonderland meets extravagance with a twist of the Wizard of Oz thrown in. I have yet to actually eat here, just a bit of gambling and an evening at the Encore bar. However, just walking into the Wynn feels like I've come home. The style and beauty and imagination that went into its creation are stunning and I can't wait to say here. Join me?

Desert Rose Resort, Las Vegas

Accomodation Review - Desert Rose Resort, Vegas

Although I don't have one anymore I really enjoyed being a timeshare owner. The best thing about the Desert Rose is that I get all the perks of being a timeshare owner and the best thing about being in a hotel too. I'm in Vegas for a convention and was looking for a lower cost, close to the strip solution for my room.

Since all the places in Vegas that I like to eat aren't cheap, it was really nice to be able to stay in a room with a kitchen. Like all the big timeshare companies, the Desert Rose rooms are more like apartments than hotel rooms. I'm in a one bedroom so I have a fully stocked (as far as dishes, glasses and cookware go) kitchen, dinning area separate living room and a balcony. Like a hotel, the room gets cleaned everyday.

The staff is friendly, the price is right, the room is well appointed (I don't watch TV but for those of you who do its got a big screen) and most importantly to me - the bed is comfy. The couch in the living room has a pull out bed so my traveling companion slept there. She had the only negative experience in that the noise from the hallway is really loud out here in the living room area. I was surprised when she told me since I couldn't hear a thing in the bedroom. The noise from outside the hotel is well blocked with the solid windows so sacrificing the person who sleeps in the living room to the noise gods is the only downside.

I'm a happy camper - Recommended!!!

Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis, Caesars Palace, Vegas

Even though its still under construction with renovations, the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis is a great place to just take a breather on your seminar breaks. I know this week it saved me.

There are plenty of lounge chairs upon which to take a few restful moments break. There is also a snack shack...Snackus Maximus, I believe. And an outdoor patio from Rao's. Stop by and experience the beauty.

Augustus Cafe, Caesars Palace, Las Vegas

I was having a bad day. I admit it. So this review may be tainted by my mood.

I didn't really want to be in Caesars, I was sick of it. The downside in that sense is that the Augustus Cafe is open to the hotel registration area and so is very clearly still in Caesars. And that probably wouldn't be a bad thing for any one else as it is a beautiful representation of Roman glory.

I was also feeling off. I ordered the Filet in the hopes I would feel better since that's what a good Filet Mignon often does for me. Unfortunately, this wasn't the place. The steak was overcooked, the spinach was excessively salty(which never happens since I love salt - so I know this was out of control) and the service, while friendly, was a bit slow. That being said I was eating with five other people and they all loved what they had.

So feel free to visit Augustus... just don't order the steak.

Mon Ami Gabi, Paris Hotel, Las Vegas

Restaurant Review - Mon Ami Gabi, Paris Hotel, Vegas

Ah, Paris.

I miss it and this was a nice fix. When inside, I could almost imagine I was there. We sat out on the patio overlooking the strip so some of the flavor was lost since it was clear from there what country I was in, however, I loved this restaurant.

Out with a group of seven, we definitely got the European timing so if you're in a rush I would go elsewhere. Everyone was happy with their food and the wine selection. The meal was fabulous and I'm anxious to go back. After fresh crusty french bread, I had the butternut squash soup which was divine. Then I had the crab cake as my main course. Perfectly filling and a lovely light meal.

Mon Ami Gabi - Recommended

Cirque du Soleil - O - Belagio, Vegas

The Cirque du Soleil performance, O at the Bellagio is a series of mystical magical moments set on a million gallon tank of water. With all the grace of Cirque and all the class of Bellagio, its not to be missed.

O performances are at 7:30pm and 10:30 pm daily, Wednesday through Sunday. Prices range from $93.50 to $150 (before fees & taxes). Tickets can be purchased through the Bellagio. Cirque du Soleil is a dramatic circus performance art.

The Fountains of Bellagio

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of sin city and treat yourself to a little entertainment, courtesy of the fountains of Bellagio. I find that watching the water dance along to some of my favorite musical compositions is a great way to clear my mind, relax, and recharge. Best of all, it's FREE!

Description from Bellagio.com:
A refreshing addition to your entertainment options, the Fountains of Bellagio were destined to romance your senses. Take in a complimentary Las Vegas show of water, music and light thoughtfully interwoven to mesmerize its admirers. All for your amusement, the most ambitious, choreographically complex water feature ever conceived amazes against the beautiful backdrop of Las Vegas' lavender sky. Each dynamic performance from the Fountains collection is unique in its expression and interpretation. Fall in love with the stunning nature of this unprecedented aquatic accomplishment while relishing a clever concert of opera, classical and Broadway tunes.



SHOW TIMES:
Monday - Friday
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
show every 15 minutes

Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays
12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
show every 1/2 hour
8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
show every 15 minutes

Capo's Italian Restaurant - Vegas - Fabulous!

Restaurant Review - Capo's Italian Steakhouse, Las Vegas

In Vegas looking for some good Italian food and a lot of fun ambiance? Go to Capo's, its the Best Italian Food in Vegas. Established in Chicago in 1964, Capo's moved to Vegas in 2004. Its a Prohibition era speakeasy, where guests get in by pressing the buzzer on the wall. Capo's now has two locations, with the second at 5675 W Sahara. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made at 702.362.CAPO.

It was our first night in Vegas and we wanted some good Italian. Sounds easy enough, unless your with an Italian New Yorker and then delivering on that gets a bit more complicated due well informed high standards. None the less, we scoured the internet and came up with Capo's.

It was definitely a strange experience to walk up to the front door only to find ourselves in a room the size of large closet, with no apparent further entry. A buzzer waited to be pushed to gain access while we discussed the situation. Standing in the dark wood paneled room listening to the loud sounds of a packed room on the other side was crazy and definitely gave us a feeling of what it was like to arrive at a Speakeasy.

When we got inside we found a packed room of candlelit ambiance. Curtained booths, a packed bar and a strolling singer with the voice of Frank Sinatra greeted us. Of course, our spur of the moment adventure did not include the foresight of making reservations so we had to wait almost an hour. Settling into the bar with some wine and just enjoying the wine and the company rushed the time along.

I had "The Godfather's Filet Mignon - Bacon wrapped and topped with Bearnaise sauce" for $39.95 which came with mashed potatoes and green beans. The steak was amazing! Much better than the one I had at the Arroyo Chop House a few months ago(my previous favorite). I wasn't so excited with the dinner salad and we never made it to dessert so no additional info there.

My New York traveling companion had "The Gallows with Clams" - Fresh Clams in a shell sauteed with shallots, garlic and fresh Italian herbs in white sauce over linguine for $19.95. Her comments: "Generous portion of pasta and clams, perfect amount of sauce, very flavorful, the best I've had since NY".

All in all the ambiance was a blast, the food amazing and the service respectable. Highly recommended.

Gate Keeper Angels - St Matthias, Budapest, Hungary

The two frescoes of angels by Bertalan Szekely next to the main gate can be observed by looking back at the gate. They mark the asymmetry of the gate and the arch above, which results from the two almost imperceptible axis of the medieval church.

St Matthias Church Budapest Stained Glass Windows

St Mattias Church in Budapest has amazing stained glass windows that light the exotic eastern interior of the church with a mystic glow.

St Matthias Church, Budapest, Hungary

According to a legend the first king St. Stephen started to build the church. However, historical proof shows that King Béla IV founded the church in 1255 after he moved his court up to Castle Hill from Óbuda.

However, the name St Matthias Church comes from the fact that the popular King Matthias held his two weddings here. The main eastern gate and the long apse are thirteenth century, the central part was built around 1400. Over the years, every king and era added something to the church. In 1541 the Turks captured Buda and transformed it into a mosque.

After the Habsburgs recaptured Buda in 1686, St Matthias Church came under the Jesuit' s patronage. Frigyes Schulek rebuilt Matthias Church in neo-Gothic style at the turn of the last century. He incorporated the 13th century remains in the new design.

The interior is very striking. Despite the vaulting and the stained glass windows, it's nothing like a Gothic cathedral, it has a sort of mystic, Eastern atmosphere.

Szabo Marzipan Museum, Budapest, Hungary

Located in the building next to St Matthias' Church up on the hill, Szabo Marzipan Museum is its own unique experience. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, to a carriage fit for Royalty, to amazing miniature architecture copies, to traditional marzipan fruit, Szabo is a house of marzipan wonders.

When in Budapest be sure to stop by and check it out.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Per Dictionary.com marzipan:

mar⋅zi⋅pan   /ˈmɑrzəˌpæn/ Spelled Pronunciation [mahr-zuh-pan] –noun
~a confection made of almonds reduced to a paste with sugar and often molded into various forms, usually diminutive fruits and vegetables. Also called marchpane. Origin: 1535–45; marzipan. (n.d.).

Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Retrieved March 20, 2009, from Dictionary.com website.

The German Food Guide also has some marzipan info and the ever present wiki details can be found regarding marzipan.

Or you can just enjoy the pictures :) Everything pictured below is made of 100% Marzipan.



Bibliography

Chicago Manual Style (CMS):

marzipan. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/marzipan (accessed: March 20, 2009).

Modern Language Association (MLA):

"marzipan." Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. 20 Mar. 2009. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/marzipan>.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE):

Dictionary.com, "marzipan," in Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Source location: Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/marzipan. Available: http://dictionary.reference.com. Accessed: March 20, 2009.

BibTeX Bibliography Style (BibTeX)

@article {Dictionary.com2009,
title = {Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)},
month = {Mar},
day = {20},
year = {2009},
url = {http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/marzipan},
}

Move Over Starbucks McDonalds owns Budapest

Looks like another day of coffee and internet connecting at the local Starbucks.....



But is it?!!?!?!!!



Granted, I was only in Budapest for 48 hours so I didn't cover every nook and cranny.

However, I saw not a single Starbucks. So I'm guessing Starbucks has not yet come to Hungary. And from what I saw, they never will be. Their market share has already been taken over and is currently being run by... yes, that's right .... the good old Golden Arches!

McDonald's is THE coffee spot in Budapest. So kiss it good bye Starbucks, ain't no room left for you!

And Mickey D's looks to be doing so good a job ~ there never will be.

St Vitus Cathedral, Prague - Gargoyles

Gargoyles of Prague Cathedral

gar⋅goyle

1.	a grotesquely carved figure of a human or animal.

2.	a spout, terminating in a grotesque representation of a human or animal figure with open mouth, projecting from the gutter of a building for throwing rain water clear of a building.

In the intricate design of St Vitus Cathedral, gutter spouts are given their traditional disguise as gargoyles. Gargoyle is a name most often applied to medieval architecture. The practice of disguising water spouts appears to have originated in Egypt and been used in Greek temples as well. This practice was contnued until the early eighteenth century when downpipes came into use. St. Vitus uses gargoyles in classic medieval style.

The Old-New Synagogue, Prague

The Old-New Synagogue is the oldest site in Prague's Jewish Town. It is also the oldest active Synagogue in Europe. It has been the main synagogue for the Prague Jewish community for over 700 years. An old legend has it that in the attic lives the Golem, an artificial creature made of clay by the Rabbi Loew. The Golem was made to protect the Jewish community from threatened destruction by Rudolf II, Holy Roman Emperor in the late 16th century. And, as the tale goes, the Golem lies in wait in case need should arise again.

Mucha Window of St Vitus Cathedral, Prague

Mucha Stained Glass Window of St Vitus Cathedral, Prague

The windows in St Vitus are amazing. Below are pictures of the exquisite Alfons Mucha window.
Alfons Mucha was one of the founders of what was originally called the Mucha Style and later became known as Art Nouveau. This Mucha window was designed in the early 1930's.

Prague, Czech Republic - Haven for Classic Cars

On my trip to Prague I was surprised to see so many Classic Cars tooling around town. Some were used for tours and others just seemed to be part of the local charm. Here's a few pictures for your enjoyment.

Czech Crown Jewels and The Story of Prague Castle

From the Pictured Brochure:

The Story of Prague Castle

The Thousand Year History of the Place where Czech Statehood Unfolded

The Story of Prague Castle - The Exhibition

Old Royal Palace (Gothic Floor)
April - October (Summer Season) 9am to 6pm
November - March (Winter Season) 9am to 4pm
Duration of visit about 1 hour 30 minutes

The exhibition is divided into two parts.

The first of these chronologically presents the major representatives of the Czech state, the key events and building development of the Prague Castle complex from prehistory to the present. This also includes interactive programmes with visualizations of the building development of the castle complex in nine stages and a wealth of information about the given periods, including brief summaries of well-known historical events in Europe, the Bohemian lands and Prague Castle itself.

The second part the Stories, develop certain themes linked with Prague Castle: The Story of Bohemian Patrons, The Story of the Church and Cathedral, The Story of Burials, The Story of Residences, The Story of Heating, The Story of Banquets, The Story of Coronations.

The Story of Prague Castle - The Film

There is also a Film: Prague Castle Through The Ages which shows daily in both Czech and English. The documentary presents the hidden corners of the castle in a montage of unusual perspectives on architecture, artworks and old prints. The mindsets of those who built and ruled the castle are presented through quotations from historical chronicles and manuscripts.

Screening Times (as of October 2008)
Czech Version: 9:00am, 10:30am, noon, 1:30pm, 3pm
Additional summer screening: 4:30pm
English Version: 9:45am, 11:15am, 12:45pm, 2:15pm
Additional summer screenings: 3:45pm and 5:15pm

The film is shown in the room above the Gothic floor - access from the Riders' Staircase, running time of 40 minutes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I loved this exhibition, although I did not see the documentary. Prague castle is littered with history and it was grand to have it all laid out so comprehensively in one place. Of course, my main fascination is always with the crown jewels. So I particularly enjoyed seeing the Bohemian crown jewels. Recommended. Especially if you like bling. Stop by the official Story of Prague Castle website for more info.

St Vitus's Cathedral - Tomb of St Wenceslas

The Tomb of St Wenceslas - St Vitus Cathedral

Pictured to the left: St Wenceslas and St Vitus by Bartholomaeus Spranger c 1600

Known as Good King Wenceslas, St Wenceslas was murdered by his brother on September 28, 935. The date of his death is now his Holy Day on the church calendar to mark his sainthood. He was hacked to pieces by his brother Boleslav at the urging of their mother Drahomíra. The murder of St Ludmilla, Wenceslas' grandmother was also planned by Drahomira. St Wenceslas is the patron saint of the Czech Republic and the Czech people.

Wenceslas became the ruler of Bohemia after his fathers death in 921. Circa 925 the Rotunda of St Vitas cathedral was comissioned by Wenceslas. The consecration of the completed cathedral occured in 1929, nearly 1,000 years after Wenceslas began building.

After his death, Wenceslas's murderer and brother Boleslav became the ruler of Bohemia. Several years later Boleslav regretted his deed and had Wenceslas' body exhumed and moved to the St Vitas Cathedral. The tomb of St Wenceslas is housed in the most beautiful side chapel, the altar of which is decorated with precious stones. The walls of the chapel are decorated with scenes from the life of Christ. The Tomb of St Wenceslas has become somewhat of a pilgrimage site and is quite crowded.

Pictured Above The Tomb of St Wenceslas