URGENT UPDATE: Professional poker player Patrick Leonard has taken a bold stance against Las Vegas resort fees, labeling them a “greedy practice” that harms the city’s tourism. Leonard’s comments come as Caesars Entertainment faces a staggering 59% drop in stock value over the past year, raising alarms about the future of Las Vegas as a top tourist destination.
In a passionate post on X, Leonard highlighted the frustration many travelers experience when they discover that the advertised room rates at hotels do not reflect the actual costs due to mandatory nightly resort fees. He urged Caesars to “eliminate resort fees,” asserting that this practice leaves visitors feeling cheated even before they arrive.
Leonard’s critique reflects broader concerns regarding Las Vegas tourism, particularly with recent data revealing a significant 7% decline in visitor numbers this summer. Despite stable casino revenues, the increase in resort fees and other service charges has been cited as a major deterrent for potential tourists.
“A guest steps out of their hotel, is approached by a showgirl who takes a photo and then demands $30, then heads to Starbucks where a cappuccino costs $11. Within just ten minutes, the visitor has spent $120 for a photo, a coffee, and access to a room they’ve already paid for,” Leonard articulated in his post.
His comments resonate with many online, where users have expressed agreement and called for a reevaluation of how resort fees are structured. Some argue that these fees should be included in the advertised price or adjusted according to seasonal demand, while others insist that if hotels continue to enforce these charges, they must provide meaningful premium services in return.
As Las Vegas grapples with these pressing issues, Leonard’s call to action underscores a growing sentiment among travelers and industry insiders alike. The future of Las Vegas tourism may hinge on addressing these concerns and restoring trust with visitors.
With the tourism industry facing challenges as we move into 2025, Leonard’s advocacy for eliminating resort fees could mark a pivotal shift in how Las Vegas operates. Stakeholders and visitors alike will be watching closely to see if Caesars and other resorts respond to this urgent call for change.
This developing situation highlights the critical need for Las Vegas to adapt and enhance the visitor experience in order to reclaim its status as the premier destination for entertainment and gaming.
