I'm sure this topic has been around the pike several times, but I've never paid much attention because we never booked through a host until this upoming trip. I would like to give her a gift. Supposedly, cash gifting is a no-no. I would like to hear specifically what gifts you have given your host. I need something to go by ~ gift card, candy, flowers.
Don't bother with consumables. They get so much of that crap. Cash is fine if you're discrete. But I find that meaningful gifts are best. But obviously you have to know your host to do that.
Depending on how much the host is really doing for you to make the trip that much better versus what you could do by booking it yourself, I would look at cash or a Visa gift card with an amount you are comfortable with. Also, take a look at these threads: https://www.vegasmessageboard.com/forums/tags.php?tag=gifts+for+hosts
I am a low-roller travelling with a mid-roller and we brought ice wine and maple fudge, which are classically Canadian delicacies. Our host admitted that they had tried and enjoyed ice wine so that was good to know. Not even sure if we are going back to that hotel any time soon. Our host arranged limo, rooms, wine and cheese platter, and tickets to Michael Jackson ONE, as well as friend's entry into a slot tournament. You can never go wrong doing a kindness so it is thoughtful of you to bring a gift.
That is exactly what I do. Since this is your first trip you don't have to go crazy but it's all related to what you get. If it is just a standard room comp then $50/$75 is probably adequate. If it is a suite, tickets, F+B credit then more is appropriate. This subject has been debated here many times and some on this board do not believe in giving a host anything. Some hosts do not deserve anything but if yours is responsive, takes care of you, and maybe goes above and beyond then I'm all about expressing my appreciation.
Yes, many,many discussions here (scroll back a few weeks or search on GIFT). Some tip a bunch, others are confused about giving money to someone whose primary job is to relieve you your entire bankroll, and get you to come back to do it again.
Uuuuhhhhh...au contraire mon ami. I learned to read minds, and I have found a common, quiet saying in most of their minds: "Cash is king."
my dad owns a clothing store and he doesnt let his host have clothes for free but gives him a big discount when he comes in if my dad is there,same discount he gives to close friends and family. but they've known each other for over ten years even outside teh casino. since it is your first time working with this host maybe see how she does for you before giving her a gift,it is like giving a waiter a tip before he serves the meal.
Thanks everyone for your input, and the link to more info. It seems as if there is no definitive answer, so I am thinking of all my options. It's our first host comp and for 6 nights in a standard room. Nothing more. So I think I will gift on the low side and see what happens in the future. We are low-rollers (quarter vp) and are happy with the room.
