First time in Vegas, first hotel :) I have to say I was really impressed!! The hotel is beautiful... the lobby is incredible. Beautiful elevators (there are 6 elevators, two halls, so you never have to wait long for one!) I especially loved the fact that the elevators were playing music from Phantom of the Opera (I rode the elevators a few extra times just for the music alone!!)
I loved our room. It's like living in your own luxurious mini apartment, sans kitchen (but there's room service available, so who needs a kitchen??) BEAUTIFUL bathroom (I wish I could redecorate my own bathroom at home the same way).
The crowd at the Venetian is extremely friendly. Every time I wandered away and came back to check on the bf, he was in the middle of a conversation with another nice person. He even managed to make some new BFFs while I was at the outlet. Same goes for the dealers (Jamie, Shawn, and Annie on the blackjack tables; Miko on the pai gow tables).
The casino on the Venetian side is ALWAYS full/busy (the Palazzo side seemed a little empty from time to time). The casino at the Bellagio never looked like it was full, either. Same thing at the Stratosphere. It definitely looks like the Venetian is the center of activity! :)
Phantom of the Opera is currently playing at the Venetian. All I have to say is: I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. In fact, I'm planning on watching it again. AWESOME cast!!