One of the newer trends in Vegas is poolside table service in a private cabana. Now you can be overcharged just as much during the day as in a club at night!
But what most people fail to realize is that a cabana is a great option to rounding out a great Vegas weekend. You get great service, a private area next to the pool, and your own plasma TV - all while enjoying the desert heat (at least it's a dry one)! Don't forget that inflated ego as you ask people if they would like to join you in your "cabana" (must be said in that smarmy way reminiscent of Ricardo Montalban).
The Pools & Bungalows at the Palms are relatively new, and it more than doubles the available poolside space. It's smaller than some of the mega resorts, but I didn't see many people struggling to find space. I would guess that there's more pool space per capita than at the Venetian or Mandalay.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the food and beverage service is more reasonably priced than room service or the clubs. It's easy to spend 4-5 hours in your cabana, and it will be nowhere near as expensive as a booth at a night club.
Cabanas carry a day rental rate, which can be pretty hefty, unless you have a casino host who will comp the charge. But even then, it can still be a good choice if you really just want to relax and enjoy a day at the pool.
PROS:
- Private area with plenty of shade and seats
- Great service with no stress about leaving your stuff unattended
- Plasma TV in your cabana to watch sports or a movie
CONS:
- Cabana rentals might be cost-prohibitive for non-gamblers
- Seasonal - summer is the peak