The way to stay in Vegas.

With a last-minute invite to attend the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Vegas, I was nearly thwarted by the high-priced last-minute room costs. Fortunately our San Francisco office had reserved a block of rooms at the Cosmopolitan and just happened to have an extra. I'm glad they did, because the Cosmopolitan turned out to be one of the best Vegas stays I've ever enjoyed.

Here are a few of the reasons why. The check-in staff was exceptional with their super-friendly approach that made me feel immediately at home. There were other check-in details that made the experience extra fun from the iPads imbedded in the counters to the card keys that were printed with my name. As someone who likes to keep card keys as hotel souvenirs, that's a cool detail. The fact that my room was upgraded to a larger suite with an incredible view didn't hurt either.

I also liked that this mega hotel and casino was still able to maintain the feel of a boutique hotel. The night I checked in, someone softly slipped a sealed envelope under my door. When I opened it, I found a hand-written note from Ichabod, the charming man who had checked me in earlier that evening. Among other things, the note gave me a personal invite to call the front desk if I needed anything. I marveled at the idea that a hotel so large could generate kind notes to each guest. Well, at least until the next day when I mentioned it to colleagues who were also staying at the Cosmopolitan but hadn't received such welcoming correspondences. I don't think I've ever felt so welcome at a hotel. Here's a photo of Ichabod's delightful note.

The other thing that makes the Cosmopolitan so much fun are the design details. The bars are opulent with their dizzying chandeliers, mirrored finishes, and astounding light fixtures. The rooms also feature amazing lighting that seems intent on making guests look their best. I also liked the design details in the rooms that hint at vintage Vegas like this brocade-like wallpaper in the bathroom created from sexy silhouettes.

The Cosmopolitan features plenty of trendy restaurants including Comme Ça where we had a delightful dinner with some favorite clients. The roasted beet salad was ridiculously delicious. And while my blog title may belie the fact, I don't like lobster. But others ordered the lobster thermidor which arrived with dramatic flair.

My favorite design element of the hotel are the massive video pillars that greet you at registration. With their constantly changing imagery, they offer a never-ending source of fascination.

Thanks Cosmopolitan for an amazing Vegas stay. I hope to be back soon.