Groove power in Vegas – without the schmooze

You don’t need an excuse to visit Vegas. You just need to know where to stay. Minutes from the strip, you’ll get space, service and some swanky amenities at The Trump Hotel. Don’t believe us? We’re Vegas regulars (at least twice a year for business as well as pleasure) and Trump is the only hotel we keep coming back to. In the heart of Sin City, it’s in a class all its own.

One of things I love most about the Trump is that it’s close to great dining and shopping but far enough away from the strip for a good night’s sleep. If you’re a walker like me, access the strip through the Fashion Show Mall rather than Industrial Road, which can set your nerves on edge when the sun goes down.

Step into the sparsely appointed lobby and you’ll do a double check that you’re still in Vegas. Elegant, fresh, chic – everything you’d expect from a four-star hotel anywhere but Vegas. Courteous, friendly staff, smoke-free facilities and a pool deck that literally begs you to ditch everything else and just relax. What more could you want?

Welcome to your ever-so-luxurious home at Trump

The Trump hotel is a stunning 64-floor tower of golden glass. It’s also the largest residential building in Vegas (this is Vegas after all). There 1,300 suites, including 50 luxury penthouses and 300 timeshare condominiums. Whether your suite faces the strip or the mountains, you’ll be guaranteed a breathtaking view with floor to ceiling windows. It’s a non-casino hotel and considered family friendly – if you’re crazy enough to bring the kids to Vegas.

Although the hotel opened in 2008, the rooms still feel very new and fresh. They’re spacious and encourage lingering with comfy furniture, plush beds and bathrobes – unlike many of the strip hotels. I spent my mornings curled up on the couch, watching the sun rise over seldom quiet strip with the mountains behind – precious luxury in a chaotic city.

The bathrooms are a thing of glory at the Trump – big enough to hold host a cocktail party. Stock up on bubble bath and treat yourself to a daily morning soak in the Jacuzzi tub – just because.

When you check in, ask for a make-up mirror to be delivered to your room (no charge), which can also double as a nightlight. Included in your resort fee is free internet (or Ethernet if you prefer to be tethered), coffee every morning (a luxury in Vegas) and 24-hour in-room dining. You’ll also enjoy free bottled of water every day – take advantage of it!

Every room also features a small kitchenette, with hot pad, fridge, microwave and kitchen utensils and dishes. I typically stay for a week at a time and appreciate the ability to make a quick breakfast or late night snack when I’m too tired to face the crowds.

Din-din anyone?

If you’re looking for a buffet, keep moving. If you’re looking for artfully prepared delish dishes high on flavor, moderate in everything else, pull up a chair. There are three dining options and all are worth partaking of at least once.

DJT – When I’m not pressed for time, I enjoying beginning my days at this smart, spacious restaurant. And when the day wraps to a close, their extensive wine and cocktail menu sends me off to bed happily satiated. By the way, that guy you always see in Vegas, hanging over the piano and yelling for another beer – you won’t find him here either.

H2(EAU) – Poolside fare at its best, this is the time for not counting your calories and just ordering. Guacamole and chips, margarita Panini or burgers and wings, belly up to bar and dig in. For granola junkies, they have a healthy smoothie menu as well, but I don’t know anything about that…

In-room dining – If you’re on sensory overload from Vegas drama, order in and get up close and personal with that sofa in your room. Service is astoundingly fast and courteous. If you’re staying in a larger hotel suite or penthouse, consider reserving a chef from DJT to prepare a full unique multi-course menu customized for you. It’s cooked in the full-kitchen of your suite.

If you’d like to learn more about the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, visit them online at Trump Hotels, Facebook or Twitter and read what other travelers have to say about them on TripAdvisor.com.

Close by the Trump Hotel

I like to walk in Vegas during the day and taxi at night. While the Trump offers valet parking, traffic in Sin City is nasty and too much work. Regardless of how you travel, here’s a list of must-see close-by.

Fashion Show Mall – More than 250 shops and restaurants including 7 flagship stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillard's, Neiman Marcus, Macy's, Nevada's only Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's Home. Grimaldi’s (my all-time favorite pizza joint) is right outside Macy’s, which is directly across from the hotel. Score!

The Grand Canal Shoppes – Stroll along a cobblestone walkway, ride an authentic Italian gondola or shop till you drop in this uniquely Vegas shopping extravaganza.

LAVO Restaurant – And while you’re at it, stop by TAO as well – decadent sister restaurants in the heart of Las Vegas. Go ahead, indulge your inner foodie.

See a show – Our past favorites include Zumanity, Crazy Horse and Jubilee. All a little bawdy but hey, it’s Vegas.

Visit a spa – The spa at Trump is luxurious – but a little on the pricy side. We’ve love Qua Baths at Ceasar’s Palace, where celebs (and regular folks like you and I) go to get pampered, prettied and noodle-fied.

Have you ever stayed at the Trump – Vegas or elsewhere? Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook – and let’s continue the conversation!