No city reinvents itself as often and effortlessly as Las Vegas, so it should come as no surprise that the entertainment capital of the world has come up with several creative resolutions for the new year. These resolutions are based on feedback from customers in various casinos, but there’s always a little twist added to make sure the house still has the advantage.
Resolution #1
Resort fees will be dropped in favor of transparency in pricing. However, the casino will now charge a betting fee for table games, a technology fee for slots and video poker, and a dauber fee for bingo.
Resolution #2
When Vegas reopened after Covid was somewhat under control, most resorts brought back free parking to stimulate business. This was especially good news for locals, who regarded free parking as a natural right. Once Las Vegas got back on its feet again, many casinos returned to charging fees and/or offering free self-parking, but still charging for valet parking. Looking to the new year, the resolution will be for consistency, either any kind of parking will cost, or any kind of parking will be free.
Resolution #3
Making COVID testing a perk for players, casinos will throw in a free testing kit with each jackpot. If you test positive, your room is free during the duration of your quarantine.
Resolution #4
Casinos are pledging to respect the BBB movement. That’s the “Bring Back Buffet” movement. Yes, there are health considerations, but everybody likes a value proposition and that’s what buffets represent. Presentation and logistics have to be re-imagined to protect everybody, but it’s important to remember that buffets are the remaining culinary connection to historic Las Vegas. We couldn’t save the showgirls, but buffets must be preserved.
Resolution #5
Committing to conservation and saving the planet, casinos will lead the way for Las Vegas by turning off marquee lights after midnight. Yes, it will be a little eerie walking down the Strip in the semi-dark, but resorts are willing to furnish their guests with flashlights (a small room charge will be applied, of course). Go Green Vegas!
Resolution #6
It’s the age of inter-connectivity, so if the world still finds it hard to come to Las Vegas, then Las Vegas is ready to bring itself to the world. Just as entertainers went to Zoom to perform during the pandemic, Las Vegas will Zoom its way to all four corners of the world – with virtual casinos, online conventions, digital chats with entertainers, and internet dining in resorts’ top restaurants (delivered to your door by Uber).
Can Las Vegas bring in the new year by implementing these resolutions? Maybe, maybe not. More importantly, the key to the city’s success is its willingness to adapt to changes in the market, changes in technology and changes in customer expectations.
And, of course, remembering the house always wins.
