Maximizing our AMEX FHR benefits at Bellagio and Cosmopolitan
Check out the conversation about the deals on this trip in our video on youtube
Embarking on a whirlwind journey through the glittering city of Las Vegas, my wife and I, set out to unveil a unique chapter in our travel saga. Our quest led us to an intriguing itinerary: a night at Bellagio, a night at the Cosmopolitan, and a final encore at Bellagio. Join us as we delve into the tapestry of experiences that unfolded during this exciting escapade.
Day 1: Bellagio – The Grand Arrival
Equipped with Clear and TSA Pre Check privileges, we soared through security, setting the tone for a seamless journey. With early arrival, we indulged in the Sea-tac Amex Centurion lounge, treating ourselves to delectable fare and refreshing libations that set the stage for our Vegas venture.
Our first stop was Bellagio, where we checked in early, igniting our stay with a burst of anticipation. Though the fabled complimentary upgrade eluded us, the front desk kindly waived the resort fee. A culinary bounty awaited, thanks to the Amex FHR deal – a $60 breakfast credit and $100 for any MGM restaurant.
A leisurely afternoon at the Bellagio pool soaked us in sun and relaxation. Dinner at Best Friend, fueled by our food credit, elevated our evening with a tantalizing tasting menu, followed by an unexpected soccer match spectacle.
Best Friend, our dinner destination, saw us indulging in a tasting menu, with the $100 credit offsetting our bill to $116.
En route, a chance encounter revealed Barcelona vs. AC Milan match tickets for $75 each, enriching our evening at Allegiant arena and sparking curiosity about its energy expenses. A memorable start to our Las Vegas escapade!
Day 2: Bellagio and Cosmopolitan – A Shift in Scenes
Day 2 unfolded with a breakfast feast at Bellagio’s buffet. Despite the bustling line, a friendly bartender offered bar seating, enhancing the experience. The spread was sumptuous, though the familiar Vegas buffet scene felt routine. The Amex FHR credit of $60 alleviated the $117 cost, making it a $57 treat.
A return to Bellagio’s pool marked a relaxing afternoon, savoring the tranquility of the space. Packing up, we ventured to our next destination: the Cosmopolitan. Our 4pm check-in revealed an unexpected gift – a complimentary suite upgrade, a novel luxury for us. While the suite lacked a fountain view, a dazzling Strip panorama graced the scene.
Cosmopolitan’s FHR deal beckoned with a $75 breakfast credit and $100 for spa indulgence, setting the stage for Andrea’s rejuvenating spa appointment on Day 3. A dinner excursion to Park MGM’s Eatly brought savory delight, fortified by Maroon 5’s electrifying performance at the Dolby Theater.
Anticipation peaked with Maroon 5’s performance at the Dolby Theater, a captivating concert amplified by the theater’s exceptional acoustics. A fortuitous meeting with Seattle friends added an unexpected, yet delightful, nightcap to our bustling day of exploration.
Day 3: Spa Bliss and Culinary Feasts
The day commenced with my wife’s rejuvenating spa experience at Cosmopolitan. An early start allowed for extra pampering time, and despite a $248 bill, the $100 credit brought it down to $148.
Meanwhile, a delayed morning greeted me, nursing a post-night-out headache. Opting out of the Wicked Spoon buffet, we set our sights on Egg Slut – a haven of mouthwatering breakfast sandwiches inspired by Chef Alvin Cailan. Our $75 breakfast credit deftly slashed our $91 bill, making the endeavor all the more delectable.
Seeking respite from the blazing heat, we ventured to the Cosmopolitan pool, navigating the sun-drenched oasis to finally find a coveted shaded spot. With shallow pools, vibrant music, and our own refreshments, the hotel’s hip ambiance and spirited pool scene resonated with us.
A shift back to Bellagio preceded a revitalizing power nap. Evening marked a special occasion, our 23rd anniversary, celebrated at Jaleo by Jose Andre. Though a tasting menu felt extravagant, we reveled in three tapas each, basking in the warm ambiance and complimentary Cava.
The dining crescendo continued with delectable desserts, maximizing our $100 credit. While an offered bonus dessert was graciously declined due to contentment, the bill tallied at $176, a reduced $76 post-credit.
Nightfall beckoned rooftop merriment at Brewdog, where drinks flowed amid cooling fans and ample seating. This vibrant Thursday night capped off a day of culinary escapades and unforgettable encounters, painting a vivid chapter in our Las Vegas sojourn.
Day 4: Farewell and Reflections
Day 4 unfolded with a delectable departure from buffets, as we ventured to Sadelles Café. Nestled near Bellagio’s garden, we relished a scrumptious breakfast at the bar. The culinary symphony included eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, accompanied by the finest pastries since Paris. While savoring our meal, the allure of hash browns lingered for a future visit.
Our final poolside rendezvous ensued, as we seized the last moments to unwind. With drinks and snacks in tow, we basked in shaded serenity, gazing at the tempting yet pricey poolside libations. Checkout brought a minor hiccup – the uncredited $100 food benefit from Jaleo. A quick call to the receptionist swiftly resolved the issue, sparing us a waiting line.
At the airport, Clear and TSA PreCheck granted swift security clearance, leading us to the Amex Centurion lounge for a final indulgence. While the chicken curry entrée left room for improvement, a satisfying salad and old-fashioned cocktails capped our Vegas sojourn on a flavorful note.
Homeward-bound, a half-full Delta flight on a Friday provided unexpected luxury – individual rows for my wife and me, a whimsical end to our Las Vegas adventure.
As the dazzling lights of Sin City faded into the horizon, we cherished every memory etched into the fabric of our journey, departing with hearts full of gratitude and wanderlust for the adventures yet to come.
Conclusion: Beyond Experiences and Reflections
Our Vegas escapade illuminated the incredible value of Amex FHR hotel deals. Hotel costs – $165 for the first Bellagio night, $220 at Cosmopolitan, and $165 for the final Bellagio stay – were offset by a remarkable $500 in food and beverage credit over four days. The Early check-in and 4pm check-out offer relieved us from luggage stress, making our stay truly leisurely.
Las Vegas emerges as an optimal playground for exploiting AMEX FHR benefits, especially in the realm of food and drink. Booking three one-night stays, as we did, allows for maximum perks. While Bellagio and Cosmopolitan’s proximity suited us, it’s worth considering a future mix, perhaps Cosmopolitan and Waldorf Astoria.
Our gastronomic journey unveiled delights at Best Friend, Jaleo, Egg Slut, Eatly, and Sadelle’s. The buffet allure at Bellagio slightly paled against the acclaimed Wicked Spoon. Future advice: skip the buffets to avoid overindulgence, as breakfast restaurant options are ample.
Final tips: Midweek visits unlock cheaper airfare, affordable hotel rates, and a higher chance of upgrades. For beverages, opt for ABC/CVS/Walgreens over pricey restaurant cocktails. Cash in hand or a small ATM fee cover expenses, while a water bottle proves invaluable. Skip car rentals – Lyft and Uber offer cost-effective transportation. Don’t forget a fanny pack for convenience, and a collapsible clear bag for event attendance. Our Vegas voyage serves as a testament to seizing the full spectrum of experiences while saving wisely.
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Disclaimer: All details and experiences are accurate at the time of writing. Prices, offers, and conditions may vary. Travelers are encouraged to research and verify information before embarking on their own journeys.
