I stayed here three times in 2011 and would've given it 4 or 5 stars then. Rooms were super clean, modern, and nicely appointed, rates were on the lower side, the casino actually smelled good, and it was conveniently located right next door to the hotel where the Jabbawockeez show used to be (and which I saw each of the times I stayed at Aria). Can't forget, it's where I met my favorite makeup artist when she was still working at the hotel's salon! Fast forward two years later and things have gone downhill.
We forgot to request a higher floor when we made our reservation and they didn't bother to ask us if we preferred a higher or lower floor upon check-in. We were given a room on the lowest floor possible with a view of nothing. Actually we did have a view of a dead bird right outside our window on the last day of our stay :/
Once we reached our room we weren't sure if there were occupants inside as there was a fruit tart sitting right outside the door and the service light was lit up. However, once inside we saw that it was unoccupied. It was disappointing to discover though that there was trash not only outside our room but inside as well. Next to the night stand was a crumpled up piece of paper or tissue. Also, on the bathroom counter were a couple of short hairs left behind.
The casino used to actually smell pretty good but they've changed the ventilation system and on social media sites they boast that the casino smells better than ever with the smoke rising up and out. In actuality the casino smells smokier than ever so I have no idea what they're talking about!
Some good things about the hotel:
- They've got the restaurant Javier's which is really good!
- There is a tram that you can use to get to Bellagio. (For the quickest route walk to Monte Carlo and hop on the tram there to Bellagio)
- Rooms and bathrooms are spacious (plenty of room for my giant-sized toiletries!)
- Convenient if you plan on shopping/eating at Crystals or eating/seeing a show at Monte Carlo
One of my top choices a couple of years ago, but especially with the Jabbawockeez having moved down the Strip, not so much anymore.