The Sahara Las Vegas, in Nevada, has announced the removal of its resort fee, at least temporarily, to promote its hotel and increase foot traffic and occupancy rates. In June, Resorts World was the first hotel in Las Vegas to not only eliminate resort fees but also offer free parking.
Sahara Announces its “All-In Rate Experience”
Resort fees have become the norm for Las Vegas tourists, but they have contributed to a chilling effect on tourism. According to reports, tourism has dropped 6% in Las Vegas during the latest quarter compared to the same time last year. Some believe the soaring costs at bars, restaurants, and shows are partially responsible, while the ubiquitous resort fees only add to the problem.
“Vegas visitors are savvier than ever, and they value convenience, quality, and transparency,” Sahara general manager Paul Hobson said in a release. “Sahara focuses on delivering memorable experiences without the hidden costs because real hospitality should feel effortless, not transactional.”
Suspending Resort Fees Through October 31st
The Sahara typically charges a $55 per night resort fee, but it will be suspending that charge for customers booking through October 31st. It is expected that the resort fees will return after that period, but right now, the summer months matter, and the Sahara is endeavoring to take advantage of the tourism season.
The company’s “All-In Rate Experience” includes free room upgrades, daily resort credits, late checkout, and entertainment discounts, but booking is required by August 10th to become eligible for the promotion. In addition, the Sahara has also extended its free parking along the Strip.
Resorts World First to Eliminate Resort Fees
Beginning on June 20th, Resorts World Las Vegas waived its $50 per night resort fee and will run the promotion through September 11th of this year. Free parking in Sin City is only featured at Treasure Island, Circus Circus, Casino Royale, and now the Sahara. The mandatory resort fees typically range from $44 to $57 per night and are primarily attributed to guests enjoying the pool, health centers, and free internet.
“All Resort, No Fees” Aims to Enhance Guest Experience
Resorts World Las Vegas has branded this its “All Resort, No Fees” package, and Carlos Castro, President and CFO of Resorts World Las Vegas, announced, “This summer, we’re focused on delivering experiences that feel easy, exciting, and worthwhile. By removing resort fees and offering complimentary parking for the summer months, we’re giving guests more freedom to enjoy what they came for—great food, great entertainment, and a memorable stay.”
The package also includes nightly resort credits of $50 at the Hilton and Conrad, as well as $75 per night at Crockfords.
Feds Cracking Down
Resort fees have evoked the ire of customers throughout the United States, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) passed a Junk Fees Rule in December to prohibit “unfair and deceptive pricing practices” that hide total prices for various industries, including short-term lodging.
The bill does not expressly ban resort fees, but they must be disclosed transparently so that consumers are aware of the total cost of the stay.
“People deserve to know up-front what they’re being asked to pay—without worrying that they’ll later be saddled with mysterious fees that they haven’t budgeted for and can’t avoid,” FTC Chair Lina M. Khan said in a statement. “The FTC’s rule will put an end to junk fees around live event tickets, hotels, and vacation rentals, saving Americans billions of dollars and millions of hours in wasted time.”
