Monte Carlo seems to be doing much better with the new casino/hotel development next door in full swing. I love the addition of the free tram that goes to Aria, Crystals and the Bellagio.
The new Minus 5 Experience (bar made entirely out of ice-even the cups) is a welcome addition, as well. They really needed something new and fun.
Rooms are the same as they have been for at least 3 years. Very basic but comfy beds and bedding. Still a lack of water pressure and hot water at times if you shower in the early am. I stay here on business trips and I think a lot of other places do too because of their stellar wait staff ad conference room service. We have seen the same faces for 3 years and it's always nice to see the company loyalty there.
Check-in is always a zoo. The Staff makes up for it with friendliness and I have never been denied a request for a complimentary late check out.
Food court in the casino makes dining on the cheap possible. They even have subway with the $5 footlong. An unheard of Vegas meal price! The food court includes a Starbucks, Subway, McDonalds, Rubios and Haagen Daz.
Around the corner from the casino in the shops is a great watering hole simply named, The Pub. Great food and good for watching sports. Best Kobe beef burger in town.
Monte Carlo has a wonderful pool area with volleyball courts, lazy river and a wave pool. The bar by the pool has great drink specials before 3 pm. Try the frozen pink lemonade concoction.
If you gamble- don't here. Tightest casino I have bet been to. They have added a bearable game area with dancers to compete with Planet Hollywood's Pleasure Pit which seemed to be a big hit with a lot of the male coworkers.
Brand Steakhouse turns into a karaoke bar on Thursdy nights which is a tradition for us at my job. It is small and gets very crowded so reservations are recommended but they will hold $50 intuit card even though the table seating for reservations is first come first served.
Basically you are guaranteed a table, but it could be a small crummy one.
I enjoyed my most recent stay at the Monte Carlo. I know I will be back because my job requires it, and I will continue to update on their progress. Things are looking better for this once struggling hotel.