Jean:
Briefly, there's been no change of heart - just strategy. I always used a card feverishly until the attention/restrictions came in '01. On trips where we're on vacation or where I've had seminars, etc. I've always used a card, so I still get a few comps here & there. Now I'm revising my overall approach to playing. My site explains this in detail. Since I no longer need at least $2500/trip profit, it seems appropriate to have less stress, more fun, and I can occasionally take my wife along when I play how I play these days. The small amounts I go into win at each casino now allows me to use a slot card, and I'm no different than you in trying to get what I can at N/C. I'm betting that casinos, in their more or less desperate need for customers, will stop at nothing to get out-of-towners in for a few days. I believe a little play goes a longer way than it did 2 years ago. The times when I do play my regular strategy, I'll use no card.
Regarding what you said about Strip casinos, I have inside contacts at Aladdin and Mandalay Bay, and while won/loss figures are used as an internal analysis tool, it is in fact the dollar amount a player gives at least those 2 casinos which determines a straight figure for comps (and cash back). I do not know about the other resorts -- you very well could be correct. Yes, I agree the policies are always in a state of flux, but it is also true that we must properly deal with the individual's state of flux--which to me is a more important factor. I also believe that as a visitor vs. a local, I'm able to overall get much better comps and have a ton more borderline situations work in my favor. But I don't think anyone knows for sure, and our own ability to work the system is our best tool.
A.P. - I agree GVR is a class act, and we are in fact staying there June 1 & 2. But other than LVH, HRH, Palms, RIO, Marriott, the Hyatt and the Ritz off Strip, I see no reason to visit town and stay at anything less than the best when you can virtually have it all in the form of luxury, culinary experience, and entertainment. I consider myself a $1 to $5 player, so staying at Coast, Stations, or downtown isn't good bang for the buck for us.
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