I'll preface my review again with the fact that the wife and I go to Vegas about 5 times a year. We've been a lot more often as of late on family business. The point of my preface is to let you, the reader, know I am not easily impressed with hotels and casinos. I'm jaded. My fascination and bewilderment have long ago given way to degeneratism. That being said, the Aria at City Center has rekindled my interest in the posh possibilities that Las Vegas holds.\n\nWe were offered 3 complimentary nights after staying at the dreadful Monte Carlo a month prior, also in the MGM group of hotel/casinos. I was unsure what to expect, but figured what did we have to lose? The place was band new, how bad a room could they give us for free? We arrived late Friday/early Saturday, groggy from the drive out in the rain. There was just a few people in line waiting to check in. We got to the counter and I promptly tried the good old $20 trick, which did not work this time. We were simply offered the same room on a higher floor.\n\nAfter settling up at the front desk, we made our way through the casino toward the guest elevators. Along the way, I noticed a lot of interesting slots, some old favorites, some new, but right now, all I can wish for is sleep. We arrived up to our room, and upon entering the lights slowly came up, the drapes opened, and soft music was playing in the background. Now that's what I call a greeting! Hardly comparable to the smack in the face of stale smoke you get upon entering rooms in some of the older hotels. \n\nAs mentioned in other reviews, the electronics in this room were nothing short of awesome. Although, I could not help but imagine an elderly guest trying to figure out the controls. I found them easy to use, and was very impressed. I would have been more impressed if the touch screen controller were wireless, but hey, you can't have it all... The bed was incredibly comfortable, the bathroom had a separate (yet together) tub and shower, as you can see from others' pictures. The wi-fi signal was strong, and the internet service was fast. Everything was really top-notch. I haven't been this impressed since my first stay at Red Rock, and this blows it away, no comparison.\n\nSaturday night, we ventured into the casino. We were disappointed to see table minimums all set at $15 or higher. I'll be honest, I like to play tables, but the thing I fear most is losing so fast I don't have time to have fun. We decided to explore the slot options instead. There were many machines on the floor beckoning, and plenty of denominations to choose from. The slots all seemed a little tight, but not too bad. I think we lost a little, but not enough to complain. Cocktail service at the slots was a tad slow, but the drinks were healthy in both size and alcohol content. I much prefer the nice sized tumbler you get at Aria to those little dinky glasses you get at most places on the strip. I'm a big fella, and those go down in two or three sips.\n\nCocktail service definitely improved at the tables. We were lucky enough to find a $10 minimum 3 card poker table (which promptly went to $15 once my wife sat down) and took a break from the slots. Dealers were friendly, as was the pit boss who promised a good rating. I hope he wasn't lying, because I already want to go back!\n\nWe, unfortunately, did not get to dine at any of the restaurants. The only meal we had at the Aria was the buffet for brunch Sunday morning, which was part of our offer and also complimentary. I was not impressed with the buffet for breakfast, especially for the price of $50 for 2 of us. I'm glad it was free, I would not have been happy to have paid for it.\n\nIn summary, (because let's face it, I've rambled long enough) this place is impressive. Any opportunity to stay here should be seized. I know I will return. Thanks Aria!
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