"How did it strike you on arrival?A gleaming gold tower sticks out from the north end of the Las Vegas skyline, a good distance from the rowdy crowds that frequent the attractions and casinos in middle of The Strip, and the marquee on the top of the building makes it clear who this building belongs to—Trump Hotels. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Since the Trump International Hotel Las Vegas lacks a casino and is a non-smoking property, guests often seek this property out for those exact reasons. The hotel doesn’t even have a boisterous pool party scene, making it a rare retreat in Sin City. Other perks are the affordable suites and the hotel’s proximity to both the Fashion Show Mall and the Las Vegas Convention Center. But fun is never far away. The Wynn, Encore, Venetian and Palazzo casinos are just across the street. How was check in? Like most resorts in Vegas, the lobby is insanely big, with high ceilings and glittering chandeliers. And like most resorts in Vegas, the ease of check-in and check-out depends on what’s happening that day or rather, the night before. Busier times will mean longer waits at both the start and end of your stay. Getting to the guest rooms and figuring out how things work doesn’t take much effort as Trump plays it safe tech-wise. Nothing new-fangled or complicated to operate here! The good stuff: Tell us about your room.I booked a one-bedroom suite at Trump where the bedroom was separate from the living area and small kitchen. The decor blends a lot of creamy colors with dark browns and while the style isn’t anything to show off on Instagram, it is comfortable. The kitchen has a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, oven and dishwasher. The master bathroom is as big as as (small) bedroom with a jacuzzi tub, large shower and vanity table. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?The floor to ceiling windows give you crazy good views of Las Vegas, whether it be looking up at the Strip or out the back to the mountains. Wi-Fi is included in the resort fee and works just fine. Room service and food: Worth it?The food and drink options at Trump are relatively limited for a Las Vegas resort. The DJT restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner while its adjacent lounge is open in the evenings for cocktails and small plates. The rooftop pool, H2 (Eau), offers guests breakfast and lunch in a more casual setting. They also serve special meals and snacks for kids. However, room service is available throughout the day and night. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Trump Las Vegas caters to both kids and pets, making it a great choice for families passing through on the way to the Grand Canyon and for folks who can’t bear to leave their pets at home. There’s also an 11,000 square foot spa and fitness center overlooking the pool with nine treatment rooms and TechnoGym equipment. All guests have the use of a Trump Attaché during their stay, which is an elevated concierge service. One thing to note is that behind the Trump is a working railroad and depending on which room you get, you may be able to hear this train passing through in the night. Ask for a quiet room and bring earplugs. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Trump Las Vegas offers a suite, pampered experience for less than other luxury resorts in town. But if you want a more authentic Vegas experience, you’ll have to head to the center of the Strip for that." - Juliana Shallcross
