It is easy to keep oneself entertained just strolling along the Strip ~ look at gondoliers on the canals at the Venetian, saunter across the Brooklyn Bridge at New York, grasp the pyramids at the Luxor, stop over at the enclosed botanical gardens at the Bellagio, check out the antique neon on Fremont Street or strike a pose by the Las Vegas sign. That said, no one can do entertainment better than Vegas and you will find some of the best acts in the world here.
It is a great idea to book tickets with your accommodation as it can work outcheaper. Vegas is famous for its shows, whether that’s Cirque du Soleil or big-name music performers like Britney Spears and, trust me, if this is your first visit you would be happy you booked “Mystere”.
As the foremost lasting Cirque du Soleil production in Las Vegas, it positively doesn’t disappoint! This show focuses on acrobatics: powerful, peppy and astonishing, together with some spontaneous Chaplin comedy.
If you are up for a fun show, Mystere should be your top choice.
The Grand Canyon
I was privileged enough to fly with Papillon, a select charter company with around 48 aircraft in their fleet. They run the airport terminal in Boulder City and it’s a superlative experience. Papillon is the oldest and major sightseeing company in the world, presenting over 40 exclusive adventure jaunts and focusing on the Grand Canyon experience overall.
I grabbed a quick coffee and doughnut and browsed through souvenirs while enduring a short wait for my flight. When my name was called I met our pilot, who escorted us to the chopper after a warm welcome. The sights and experiences on my trip left me breathless, and shaped memories that will never be forgotten in a hurry.
Unique museums
The mob and Vegas are knotted together and a delightful and very detailed museum narrates the history of the two at the very interesting Mob museum. I fell in love with the Neon Museum though; this al fresco lot is laden with the enormous signs that once signalled you into casinos, like the Silver Slipper, Stardust and El Cortez.
Now, this casino boneyard lets you explore, featuring tons of signs, a park and guided tours of their collection. I loved wandering through these old signs, learning the history of the city as I went by and getting a different perspective on Vegas. Remember to make reservations in advance. Late evening I wandered looking by at the glitz and the lights at downtown Vegas.
Here I discovered sketchy bars, casinos, inexpensive drinks and more of a New Orleans Bourbon Street vibe. It’s a great zone for entertainment, people-watching, inexpensive slots and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Shark reef
One of my favourite spots, Shark Reef Aquarium is a mustsee. Shark Reef tunnel, which is intended to look like a recessed antique shipwreck, permits you to come face to face with all types of sharks, sawfish, giant rays, vanishing green sea turtles and sporadic golden crocodiles. Tickets cost 20 dollars for the tunnel, located in Mandalay Bay Resort.
Eat, eat and eat
Las Vegas has some of the best food in the world. A trip here isn’t complete without at least one fine dining experience. My favourite restaurants include Lago at the Bellagio for Italian, Bacchanal at Caesars Palace for the best buffet in town, Jean George’s steakhouse at Aria Resort and Casino for the most superlative Tomahawk ever, Otto at the Grand Canal shops area at the Venetian for the best Pizza Margherita in town and The Other Room inside the Forum shops at Caesar Palace for just chilling out with some great cocktails and the best tacos of my life! And not to forget Tipsy Robot, in case you are looking for a great drink made by a robot at The Planet Hollywood.
Top of the world
I was literally on top of the world at the High Roller Ferris wheel at the LINQ, a shopping and entertainment quarter between the Flamingo and The Quad. At 550 feet tall it’s the creation’s highest Ferris wheel, captivating 30 minutes to do a complete rotation. Just like me, you will never want to leave the glitz of Las Vegas!
FAST FACTS
Best Way to Reach: Fly Emirates and don’t forget to carry your priority pass so you can rest in the lounges, especially on the way back home for a break in Dubai.
Best Place to Stay: Planet Hollywood, great location and great facilities. Also houses the Miracle Mile shops.
Travelling Around: It’s easy to get around the Strip on foot, but distances are more than they look, so grab a bus pass, a private taxi or just Uber around!