Turning the tables on Las Vegas.

I am of course referring to the book by Ian Andersen. I loved it.

I am relatively new to the game and I was wondering if anyone could comment on how relevant some of these ideas are today. For example his rehearsed responses to casino personnel's probes on his knowledge of counting, such as: 'I only count Aces' or, 'No I'm not counting I'm merely memorising every card'. Are these tactics outdated now?
I like the idea of only increasing the bet size if he's won the previous hand regardless of favourable count; letting it ride. Again is this strategy a clear indicator to casino personnel that you're counting, or is it still a credible play in 2011?
I'm in agreement with the idea of 45 minute sessions to reduce exposure in any one place too, inevitably posting some well remembered losing sessions along the way.
I was also fascinated by the way Andersen actively fosters relationships with the floor personnel and avoids confrontations to remain undetected. It makes sense.

I'm looking to win small amounts often in a fair number of different places to supplement my income and have some fun at the same time.

I'm based in Northern England and would love to hear from experiences from UK players too. I welcome some contemporary insights on UK casino's and how the Vegas model is followed or not over the pond.

I welcome any comments regarding any aspects of my post.
Thankyou.........

I really like the book too. The story he told about the best act he'd ever seen was great! What he explains regarding the importance and value of good pen is worth many times the price of the book. If you care to hear him talk blackjack he is one of the speakers on The Hot Shoe dvd. I think the book is quite relevant in todays casinos as it was when first published. Good cards!

Just realized you're discussing his older book-sorry I haven't read that one!

I think it is a thing of the past or particular to him. He must have had a great personality to pull that stuff off. Not saying it can't be done, but would be difficult for most.

Thanks for the lead on the Hot Shoe Dvd and the insight on the relevance of his ideas today.
I've started reading Mr Wongs' Blacjack Secrets which gives more advice into betting patterns and how to remain undetected. This aspect is fascinating to me.
Can anyone give opinion on the importance of establishing friendly relationships with casino personnel to increase EV rather and longevity?
I paid $2 for a 1976 copy of Turning the Tables. I realised inside 5 pages that it was probably the best $2 I'd ever spent.

I'm still keen to expand on my abilities and looking for a mentor if possible in the UK if anyone would like to contact me?

Thanks.

Like Ian said on The Hot Shoe-he'd find it much easier to train an actor to be a good card counter than to try to train a mathematician to be a card counter!

that are very valuable...and a lot of stuff that is somewhat obsolete. I think the middle ground between Ian's "get to know the pit managers personally" and Bryce Carlson's "stay completely invisible" is a realistic approach.