Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
So we all know that after a few drinks your judgment can be off. Well, imag-
ine if you'd had a few and you stuck your hand into a projection of light, and
whatever image was there before you stuck your hand in it actually changed? Sure,
go on, blink hard and try it again. It still works—and that's not the alcohol talk-
ing. It's the “Human Locator” technology, which responds to touch and motion,
at work at
Tabú Ultra Lounge
555
(in MGM Grand;
%
877/880
-
0880 or 702/
891
-
7183; www.tabulv.com; cover Wed, Thurs, Sun
$
20, Fri-Sat
$
25; Wed-Sun
10pm-dawn).
This is Las Vegas' first “ultra lounge,” and it's set itself apart from
all other clubs, lounges and bars, thanks to the design expertise of Jeffrey Beers
combined with master of the surreal Roger Parent, who's a former executive pro-
ducer of Cirque du Soleil.
The visual indulgence doesn't stop with the lights. There are also lighted,
revolving liquor towers at the main bar and a mural that fills an entire wall with
its desertscape. Only, this isn't any old mural. It's an “animated mural” that each
person will see differently, depending on the lights and images that are projected
upon it during the time that they're gazing at it. Plus, the cocktail servers are
models; the music is better and more varied than at other clubs, with three resi-
dent DJs and tunes ranging from classic lounge to European-influenced house
blends; and then there are the “Super Slide Sundays” celebrating old-school hip-
hop, when funky beats and even break dancing take over the club. Celebrity sight-
ings are common on any given night, because Tabú is upscale, yet low
maintenance, and dark enough to keep a low profile. If you're going to check out
any club or “ultra lounge,” it should be this one.
Walking the Line
Gaining entry to a club can be the most frustrating part of the evening.
The following tips could help speed up your line time.
Call ahead.
Some clubs will put you on the guest list at no cost if
you merely call and request it.
Dress to impress.
No sandals, shorts, or baseball hats.
Look confident.
While cockiness never helps, assertiveness never
hurts.
Arrive before 11pm.
The busiest period at clubs is between 12:30
and 1am, and you'll have a harder time getting in if you show up then.
Split up.
The larger the group, the longer the wait—especially a
large group full of guys.
If you're trying to tip your way in, don't make it obvious.
It's a
negotiation. Don't wave cash above your head. Discreetly and
respectfully hand the doorman $20 and ask if he can take care of you.
Be on time.
Reservations are quickly cancelled if you're late.
Girls rule.
If you're in a mixed group, make sure the girls are in front.
