Trump sets up shop in Vegas with posh, smoke-free hotel
Just off the Strip: The smoke-free Trump International Hotel & Tower doesn't have a casino, but it certainly doesn't scrimp on service.What's new: Trump International Hotel & Tower Las VegasClaim to fame: The Apprentice mogul Donald Trump makes his first move into Sin City. But unlike his Atlantic City properties, there's no casino here. And it's smoke-free.Vital statistics: A 64-floor glass tower with 1,282 condo suites; about 300 currently are rented out as hotel accommodations.The scene: Serene. Set by itself off the Strip near Wynn Las Vegas and the Fashion Show shopping mall, the 2-month-old Trump (quiet as a tomb during this reporter's visit) is the antithesis of your typical, line-up-to-check-in Vegas casino hotel. Affable and attentive staffers in hip suits and dresses designed by Trump's daughter Ivanka usually outnumbered guests and condo residents in the marble lobby with chandeliers, crystal-beaded pillars and living-room-style cocktail lounge.Bedding down: Trump's Atlantic City digs aren't known for understated tastefulness, but suites here are aces in that department. Kudos to Trump kids Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric, who oversee his new hotels. The look is modern, chic and upscale residential. Suites are decorated in subdued chocolate, butterscotch and cream tones. Blond wood cabinets have books and objets d'art on shelves. Even the smallest studio has a fully equipped kitchen, cooktop and Sub-Zero fridge, plus marble bathroom with jetted soaking tub and separate glassed-in shower spacious enough for four. The only tacky touch: a welcome gift of "Trump Ice" spring water, whose bottle bears the likeness of The Donald. Tip: If train whistles bother you, ask for a room on the street side of the tower.Who'll like it: Those with a taste for luxury, tranquility and peel-me-a-grape service. Staffers are notably caring, personable and proud to have Trump on their résumés.Who won't: Serious gamblers, smokers and the party crowd.Wining & dining: Food and drink are priced for high rollers ($11 for "Mr. Trump's whipped potato purée"), but of fine quality. Be prepared to drop $15 on a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and $26 on a scrumptious lobster Cobb salad. Dinner entrees at the DJT restaurant, offering "modern American" cuisine created by Trump Sr.'s personal chef, run $34-$68.Indulgences: An "attaché" button on the phone to call Trump's spin on butler service; TV images that magically appear on the bathroom mirror at the touch of the remote; a spa and outdoor pool with servers who offer Trump sunscreen; a giant martini shaker in every room.The deal: You can score a $199 midweek rate through Sept. 1 for a top Vegas lodging choice that would probably cost three times as much in Manhattan.Information: 866-939-8786; TrumpLasVegasHotel.comBy USA Today - Travel NewsRead more…
