Flying into Las Vegas at night is an experience I'll never forget. It's like a gigantic, magnificent oasis in the middle of the Nevadan desert, a cornucopia of every conceivable colored light springing into the sky, flickering and flashing the names of some of the world's greatest hotels. No wonder this temple to excess and entertainment is known as America's strobe light.
Las Vegas is around 260 miles north-east of Los Angeles, and the city started life as a small railroad town. Over the decades, as gambling laws were relaxed, entrepreneurs headed for the area to set up hotels, casinos, restaurants and malls, making the city what it is today - the Entertainment Capital of the World. Its stages have been graced by the likes of Elvis Presley, Liberace and Elton John, and now there are dozens of musicals and other shows to choose from when you visit.
Entertainment at the fingertips
I didnÕt really have to step out of my hotel as everything I could have wanted – food, drink, shows and a casino – is all within the building, however, Las Vegas has such a pull that it just invites you to go out and explore its sights. Wandering along The Strip the eyes are dazzled by the giant hotel and casino complexes, their neon signs illuminating the night sky and inviting the visitors in.
I like to take a peek at the high life and enjoy the glitz and glamour served up in luxurious surroundings. Top hotels, such as Planet Hollywood Las Vegas really do offer their guests practically anything they want, with the finest of foods in gourmet restaurants, or a real taste of America with eating-houses featuring massive steaks and succulent ribs on the menu. Drinks of all sorts are available night and day, and for those on a tight budget there are some very reasonably priced hotels and guest houses, the use of which will free up some cash with which to hit the casinos.
Fun at the tables
When I gamble I always try a whole range of games as well as giving the slots a whirl. I usually start with a few spins of the roulette wheel to get in the mood, or shoot some craps, then move on to the card games. Poker is my favorite but I enjoy some time at the blackjack table as well as just watching the action while sipping a cool cocktail.
Showtime razzmatazz
The world's greatest entertainers and shows come to Vegas, some with really long runs, so there is always something for everyone. Whether it's a spectacular rock concert, a West End or Broadway style musical, a top illusionist – think David Copperfield – or some comedy or country-and-western music, you'll find it somewhere here. As well as the performances in the casino resorts there are theaters carrying popular shows and of course, you can easily catch up with the latest blockbusters in the many movie theaters.
Some final thoughts
Las Vegas dazzles the senses, lights up the entertainment and vacation world and mixes sophistication with a brash, in-your-face vibrancy that sucks you in for the time of your life. I may have been exhausted at the end of my trip, but it was worth every minute. Would I do it again? You betcha!
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