Grand Victoria

Had a small group at Grand victoria and it still is one of the friendliest casinos in the north. Unfortunately it is being squeezed big time by the proximity of full casinos near NE Ohio and the newness of the Hollywood Casino (re-built Argosy). Wish they would work wit us to become a "destination" casino and develop something to help attract out-of-town guests. Playing conditions for table games are still pretty good with lower limit table games and pretty reasonable rules. Golf Course remains a highlight as one of the best resort courses playable for all levels. Considering returning our golf tournament for next year back to "The Links".

Las Vegas

Returned from Las Vegas a few weeks ago and just getting back into the swing of blogging. Happened to hit spring break, but Vegas is still Vegas. Arranged for the group to take the Nite on the Town tour from Showtime and it was it's usual success. This tour is one of the best ways to see the sights of Vegas and get to some of the free shows. If you attempt to walk it yourself you may be there a few nights, but this lets you see the sights and visit a few as well. I still feel Fremont street is the place for the non-whale (guppie) or older gambler and the strip is good for the high-rollers and vacationers. Too bad airfare has been so difficult to monitor because the casinos are pretty much offering great room deals. We had one couple take the helicaptor to Grand Canyon tour, and said it was worth every penney--- sorry I couldn't take it with them.

Winter 2010 Cruise

A fantastic cruise aboard Carnival Miracle. Only had one day of somewhat questionable weather as we spent 8 days touring Panama, Costa Rica and Belize. While I can't say we were overly impressed with Panama, the Canal was awsome in it's structure and setting, as well as the volume of business flowing through. I would say however that if you aren't an engineer, don't take a Canal only tour. We also went to Ft. San Lorenzo and were treated by some breathtaking views fronm this incredible Ft. on a point over looking the Caribbean. The waves crashing ashore reminded us of the pictures of Pebble Beach. From Panama we visited Costa Rica and toured the Rain Forest, DelMonte Banana Plantation and the River ride. Strongly endorse the Rainforest tour hosted by EcoTours. Our guides were young but extremely knowledgeable and the wagon driver must have been born with the eyes of an eagle... the way he spotted small animals and insects was simply amazing. I never knew frogs actually came in the exotic colors you see on the magnets ! By the way, back in Panama we witnessed one of those sights you always see on Discover Channel, but never dream of seeing ... a long column of Leaf Cutter ants. Must have been 25 yards long ; also heard howling monkeys for the first time. I actually started looking for hyenas before the guide told us they were monkeys. Back to Costa Rica...wish we had known our tour left from a ranch that also povided both Zip Lines and horseback riding...next trip ! Then on to Belize and one of the most magical Mayan Ruin tours we've been on. The trip to Lamanai ruins, which are absolutely awe-inspiring, included a simply breath taking one hour high speed boat ride over the ancient, calm, winding New River....maybe the abolute highlight of the trip. Through all of this, the crew of the Miracle provided the high level of service, food and entertaiment we expect. I learned how refreshing a Mohito could be and the fact that they are more than a simple "high-ball" type mix. Since Sand Run Travel always has a casino involved I can't leave the blog without expressing how enjoyable and friendly the entire casino staff of the Miracle was. Any gambler wil recognize how much this group adds to the total enjoyment of the cruise, and all other casinos should send a rep to learn how to treat their customers.

Start-up

I am a new, and novice, blogger. Initially my intent is to discuss some of the highlights of each of our tours after we return. As such I expect to review distant locations like Panama, Belize, Atlantic City & Las Vegas as well as more local venues like Grand Victoria, Wheeling Island & Seneca Allegany. We'll also review the wineries we tour and discuss some casino activities. Look for my first review sometime after our winter Cruise departing Feb 16th.