Las Vegas. Sin City. The Entertainment Capital of the World. It’s a place on many people’s bucket lists and it welcomes around 40 million visitors every year. Located deep within the Nevada Desert, it’s the city that truly never sleeps and where there’s always something happening. Whilst, for some, this idea might seem overwhelming, for others, the excess of Vegas is just enough.
If you’ve always wanted to experience the madness and the mayhem which is the Vegas Strip, then it’s time to plan the trip of a lifetime. Even if you’re not a big fan of all the glitz and the glamour, it’s still a unique and rewarding place to visit, whether you’re a nature fan, a music enthusiast, or simply want to sample some world-class cuisine.
Getting There
Wherever in the world you’re travelling from, the most likely form of transport you’ll take to Vegas is a plane. You might be thinking, “But I’ll never be able to afford the flights to Vegas, let alone a holiday there!” However, this is where you could (happily) be wrong. Flights are one area where you can definitely try using some tips and tricks to save money. For example, if you’re willing to extend your journey just a little bit, then making a connection elsewhere rather than flying direct can make a big difference to the overall cost.
Also, if you’ve got the luxury of time on your side, then be sure to aim for off-peak travel times. Interestingly, the cheapest months to fly to Vegas are actually slap-bang in the middle of summer throughout July and August, or at Christmastime in December. The only issue is that you might find yourself catching that flight at some ungodly hour of the night – so be prepared.
Accommodation
Although you’ll definitely want to check out the Strip during your visit, that doesn’t mean you need to stay right on it. By all means, if you have the cash available then shell out for a swanky hotel room right in the centre of the city. However, if you don’t have money to burn, then all is not lost. Public transport in the US gets a bad rap, but it’s in the city’s interests to make sure that all those tourists can move around easily; therefore, it’s recommended that you choose a downtown hotel and catch one of the regular buses that runs passengers up toward all the sights and sounds of the Strip.
Mother Nature
Remember, Vegas isn’t just about the thrills and spills of the big entertainment establishments. There’s also plenty here for nature lovers, whether you prefer a hike through the desert, a leisurely walk through the Botanical Gardens, or a scenic drive. There are some incredible natural wonders in the immediate area, including Red Rock Canyon, Mount Charleston and Lake Mead.
The easiest way to reach any of these is probably via hire car, although there are workarounds if you’re prepared to walk some of the way and catch a few buses. It’s all part of the adventure.
Entertainment & Food
Heading back into the city, there is, of course, plenty to see and do. Visiting the classic casinos such as Caesars Palace, the Bellagio, the Wynn and the Venetian is a must as they are all cultural institutions. However, you can also catch a show by the Cirque du Soleil, David Copperfield or Katy Perry at one of the many amazing venues available. If you’re feeling peckish, make sure you sample a true Vegas buffet at least once, and track down some of the best world cuisine in town at Tacos El Gordo, Esther’s Kitchen or Kaiseki Yuzu.
Vegas really is an experience, whatever you end up doing, so try not to plan a rigid itinerary. Instead, go with the flow when you arrive and stop wherever tickles your fancy. This is the best way to discover the true idiosyncratic nature of the city and make your trip one to remember forever.
Thank you for reading.
