I have been to Las Vegas 2 times before this trip, staying at the Riviera and Bally's. The Mirage blows both of these hotels out of the water. We booked a standard room at $100/night for 3 nights, but when we got there, with the help of a $20 tip, the friendly woman at the check in counter comp'd us a better room with a view (she tried to get us a suite, but didn't have any available). They also sent up complimentary champagne. The room was obviously newly renovated (we got the purple room), with a large foyer area, large desk with plugs for almost any device you can think of, flat screen TV, the alarm clock even doubled as an iPod stereo. The only negative thing I would say is that it appeared as though another guest had been in our room prior to us being there, as the soaps were out of place in the bathroom. Also, be aware that the minibar is weight sensitive, so even if you just pick something up, you'll be charged. Be sure to check the contents of the fridge when you first get there to make sure nothing is missing, as there were some missing items from ours, but we let the front desk know so we wouldn't be charged. The beds, comforters and pillows were incredibly comfortable! We used the wireless internet, which is about $12 for a 24 hour period. The wireless did go out on us, and we had to hard wire in to it which was inconvenient, as the lady at the front desk sold us on being able to use the internet anywhere in the hotel.
We ate at the Caribe Cafe for breakfast two mornings in a row. The belgian waffles left something to be desired, as they were a bit boring and bland. The french toast, however, was delightful, and more than enough food for one person. The yogurt parfait was also really good! The decor of this restaurant is not the best, it looks like it hasn't been renovated since the 70's, but the food is decent, if not over priced.
We also ate at the BLT Burger joint, which was a refreshing find, as it was a lot of food for a really reasonable price. We ordered off the kids' menu and it was more than enough food for me and my sister. The kids' chicken finger combo with fries was about $7. The burgers are HUGE, so come hungry!
Regarding the casino, we did very little gambling at the Mirage. Although it's very nice, and classy (as far as Vegas casinos go), it also felt pretty stuffy and took itself too seriously for me and my sister. If you're a beginner gambler or just in it to have fun then I suggest going across the street to Harrah's. It's an older and more run down casino, but had more people there and had more of a welcoming vibe to non-high rollers. Although, to be fair, we had a lot of fun with our dealer at the $5 min texas holdem table at the Mirage.
My sister and I did make it out to the pool, and there a plenty of chairs for everyone. However, all the prime location chairs are gone by mid day, so be prepared to sit in the sweltering sun if you get there late. But it's nothing that a dip in the nice cool pool can't fix.
We also had a mani/pedi, facial and massage at the hotel's spa. It was heavenly! The place was very clean and looked newly renovated as well. We were greeted very warmly by the host, given shoes and a robe and our own locker. There are 4 hot tubs to choose from (2 warm and 2 cool water). There's a steam and sauna room (which we didn't go into). Private showers with all soaps provided, along with a big vanity room where you can do your makeup after. They provide hair driers, curling irons and hair product. The services were exactly what I expected... very relaxing. Even though it was a little overpriced I would recommend at least a massage, so you can take advantage of the other amenities of the spa.
Also, stick around for the volcano show out front, it runs every hour until 12 midnight. It's pretty neat. It's obvious though that they're competing with the Bellagio's water show. Both are worth watching.
Overall we had a very positive trip, and we both agree that we would stay at this hotel again next time we come.
