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Viva Las Vegas Vacation
My Flight to Sin City
Embarrassing as it may be, my flight to Vegas in October of
2005 was the first time I flew on an airplane since the age of four. The only thing I remember from my flight then
was that I had to use one of those bags—you know which ones. Upon getting on board, I was afraid that it
my past might “come up” again. Thank
sweet baby Jesus it didn’t. I was
surprised to find that I wasn’t at all nervous to be on the plane. I was more excited than anything. I waited my whole life for this trip. I wrestled my brother-in-law for the window
and was glad I did, because where once there was darkness, the world lit up all
around me. I could’ve sworn I heard
angels singing. The entire fuselage of
the plane brightened as the world outside and underneath us lit up like a
Christmas tree city! It was simply
spectacular. I was happy that we got
there in the evening, otherwise I would not have been able to enjoy that
moment as there really is nothing in the world quite like Vegas at night.
McCarran International Airport
McCarran International Airport
Before arriving at McCarran, I didn’t know that it could be so overwhelming to take in. Although I haven’t been to many places in my life, not before had I ever been to such a state-of-the-art terminal. Everything just looked so squeaky clean and modern. Architecturally speaking, McCarran is a perfect blend of steel and glass with tons of sunlight pouring in during the day that while walking through, you'd think you were outdoors. Everywhere you looked, there were rows of slot machines—I swear they call to you. Before going to Vegas, I heard that such was the fact and that there really were slot machines EVERYWHERE including supermarkets believe it or not. Escalators took us down into the lower level, which was absolutely HUGE. Sculptures and murals decorated the walls. Its immense size rivaled that of New York City’s Grand Central Station. From there, we walked onto a brightly lit platform and waited for our tram that whisked us away to our destination at bullet-speed. Just some advice: When the sexy-lady-operator voice comes on and tells you to hang on, HANG ON! Just thought I share that with you. Don't kid yourself. Those robots know what they’re talking about.
The Hotels on the Vegas Strip
Now, if you've ever seen Vegas Vacation, the remake of Ocean's Eleven (2001), Lucky You, or any of the dozens of other movies that showcase the Vegas Strip (Las Vegas Blvd), then these pictures should certainly be familiar to you. I'll start from the top:
- The Bellagio: Inspired by the Lake Como resort of the same name, The Bellagio is world reknown for its exquisite elegance. In 1993, the original construction cost of the hotel was 1.6 Billion Dollars. It sits looking over a 105,000 square foot lake that separates the hotel and the strip. The lake performs a "Water Show" that is synchronized with classical music. The show takes place every 30 minutes in the afternoons and early evenings, and every 15 minutes from 8 p.m. to midnight. The Bellagio also features Cirque de Soleil's production of "O."
- Mandalay Bay: A 39-story hotel, Mandalay Bay has 3,309 rooms and its casino is 135,00 square feet. The top five floors are used for the four-star Four Seasons Hotel. It also features the free Mandalay Bay Tram which connects to its sister hotels, Luxor and Excalibur.
- Excalibur: Named after the Arthurian legendary sword, Excalibur is highly based on the Carcassone castle in France. As of 2007, the hotel went on a major overhaul, renovating 2,000 rooms to include contemporary furniture and plasma screen TVs. Like Mandalay Bay and Luxor, Excalibur is owned and operated by MGM Mirage.
- The Luxor: Inspired by its Egyptian city namesake, the Luxor hosts 4,407 rooms lining the interior walls of the hollow pyramid. A high emitting beam of light shoots out of its summit which can be seen miles up.
- Paris: As its French namesake suggests, Paris hotel and casino features a 5/8th scale of the world famous Eiffel Tower; the 540 foot-scale replica and the front facade of its building suggests the Paris Opera House and the Louvre.
- MGM Grand: Vegas' MGM Grand is the second largest hotel in the world behind the Venetian, having a eye-popping 6,852 rooms; 5,044 of its rooms are located within its main building, which features Cirque du Soleil's production of "Ka."
- The Venetian: The Venetian is by far the world's largest hotel, having an unbelievable 8,108 rooms, 4,049 of which are suites. At the time of construction, it cost $1.5 Billion to build, making it one of the most expensive resorts of its time. The Venetian features two permanent shows--Blue Man Group and Phantom, The Las Vegas Spectacular.
The King of Las Vegas
Okay, so let me give it to you straight...NO Vegas Vacation is complete without the King! On our way back from seeing West Canyon, the bus driver played us Viva Las Vegas! and got us amped to go and blow our 401K checks pronto! So turn up the dial and click that PLAY arrow!
Some General Advice on Gambling
Okay, pop quiz: What is the MAIN reason why people go to Vegas? All right, if that question was too tough, I'll ask another question that has the SAME ANSWER: Where did all these plutocrats get the money to build these billion-dollar erect-cities within a city? That's right, GAMBLING!!! I'm sure you've heard it before, but the house in the end, rest assured, always wins. The way I look at gambling is this:
Picture a burning mansion. Inside this burning mansion, there are treasures beyond your wildest dreams...You are granted free access into this mansion and at your leisure and are free to take as much you like. The downside? The rafters can come crashing down at any second...So you better hurry!
It is my belief that sooner or later when gambling, you will win. Sure it won't be much, maybe you'll simply get your money back, but it's better than nothing. I believe that everyone does win at casino games, but not everyone knows when to get the hell out of that burning mansion when the going is good. People who gamble only need to say "when." I hope this helped!
Recommended Shows and Attractions
Although I've only been to about a fraction of what Vegas does have to offer, I believe that I've been to some of the better ones. Here are just a few I highly recommend:
- Blue Man Group: These guys were awesome. We sat at the second row from the stage and so were required to wear these see-through ponchos because of the paint that just happens to fly everywhere. It wasn't that bad. I was almost disappointed that only a few specks got on me. They perform at the Venetian.
- Toni Braxton: Thank goodness I got to the Flamingo early for her show. My numbers were coming out at the roulette table. And just around the time I began missing my numbers, it was time to go see Toni. We got front row tickets which was opportunistic for me. Her and I joked around and somehow I talked her into letting me touch her ankle (I'm not making this up, by the way). She can really sing!
- Penn and Teller: I really liked these guys. Some of the tricks they do were real head-scratchers as I could not at all figure them out for the life of me (which is good). The dynamic duo is one-half magician and one-half comedian.
- "Ka" and "O" (Cirque du Soleil): Although both shows are amazing, "O" is the better of the two. These shows simply blew me away. When it ended, I totally forgot where i was because I was so enraptured with the story. You too will be amazed at what the human body is capable of. There's a good reason why Cirque du Soleil is famous throughout the world. "Mystere,""Zumanity," and "The Beatles" are some of the other productions of Cirque du Soleil in Vegas.
- Disney's The Lion King: Playing at Mandalay Bay, "The Lion King" is more than just a musical, it's an experience. The music and performances are unbelievable and unforgettable.
If you do go to Vegas, you don't necessarily have to splurge to have a good time. There are so many things to do and see, as Vegas is a treat for the eyes and ears and you don't have to keep on reaching for your wallet to have a great time. Here are just some of the many things in Vegas that are free!
Free Attractions in Las Vegas
The Aquarium at the Silverton
Located within the cozy Silverton Hotel, a 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium provides entertainment on a scale one can enjoy only in Las Vegas.
CBS Television City Research Center
Ever thought you could do the job of a network executive, deciding which shows are put on the air and which ones end up in the waste bin? The network jobs are hard to come by, but you can weigh in on the decision-making process by letting your opinions be known at the CBS Television City Research Center at MGM Grand.
Conservatory at Bellagio
Crafted by a team of 100 horticulturalists, the Bellagio's conservatory features elegant, elaborate arrangements of plants and flowers in its bright, airy atrium.
Ethel M Chocolate Factory
Ethel M Chocolates panders to the sweet tooth in all of us. Located seven miles from the Strip, its free admission entices us to the factory, through which many a visitor goes for a behind-the-scenes look at the candy-making (and tasting) process.
The Fountain at Bellagio
Every evening, the spectacular water show awaits you. This attraction literally stops traffic as passersby can't help but to watch this absolutely free show.
Fountain shows at Caesars
No civilization put on a greater spectacle than ancient Rome, and now you have a chance to witness the glory for yourself at Caesars Palace's fountain shows.
Fremont Street Experience
The Fremont Street Experience will have you dancing in the street with its $70 million light canopy and 540,000-watt sound system.
Marjorie Barrick Museum
With displays of Western culture, desert life and the history of ancient Mexico, the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Natural History is both educational and vibrant.
Show in the Sky at the Rio
This sensual, yet upbeat production takes visitors on a journey through the world's greatest celebrations with energetic dancers, exotic costumes and plenty of fun.
M&M's World
M&M's World may be the most delicious attraction in Vegas. And judging by its scores of visitors, M&M's World must be doing something right.
Neon Museum
The open-air museum was created by the city of Las Vegas to preserve these vital pieces of Vegas history.
The Sirens of TI
Part muse, part temptress, part pirate, watch as the Sirens of TI battle a band of pirates in Sirens' Cove, located at the front entrance of the popular hotel and casino.
Streetmosphere
The Grand Canal Shoppes at the Venetian adds a little 'Streetmosphere' to the shopping experience, providing fun and entertainment for all that visit.
Sunset Stampede
Take a symphonic journey through the Wild West at Sam's Town.
Volcano at the Mirage
Every hour after dusk, the Mirage volcano explodes forth for crowds of curious Strip onlookers.
Welcome to Las Vegas sign
Guests can park their cars right next to Las Vegas' 50-year-old iconic sign and take plenty of memorable photos.
Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo
The Flamingo's brilliant neon sign is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable on the Strip. And visitors can take a closer look at the creatures who inspired the bright display at the hotel-casino's very own wildlife habitat.
The last thing that I want to mention is that the people who work and live in Las Vegas, including every employee at every restaurant, show, attraction, casino, resort, who drive a cab, bus, shuttle and such are all vying for your business and that is exactly why everyone will be nice to you! 75% of what these people earn is through gratuity so tip often and tip well! They will thank you for it!
Another important thing I didn't mention is the food, as everything there is fresh (planes from all around the world go to Vegas every minute! So that means lobster from Maine, cattle from Montana, etc. As far as buffets go, I highly recommend the Rio World Buffet. It has EVERYTHING hence its name. The Bellagio Buffet is incredible too. Thank you for reading! I hope you liked it.
More of My Works
- Lao Folktales : The Magic White Swan
Once there was a lonely farmer who decided to go fishing one day. He wore a shawl around his head to save from being bitten by mosquitoes and other bugs and carried a long fishing net. When he reached... - The Grand Canyon's West Rim
The West Rim of the Grand Canyon In October of 2006, I was asked by my sister and her husband to go to Las Vegas for ten days. Aside from the fact that my job was killing me and that I needed a break, Vegas... - Lao Folktales : The Mango Tree
A real mango tree! There once a beautiful mango tree that grew in the jungle near a village. Each and every year when its fruit was in season, the children from the village would run into the jungle...
© 2009 dohn121
Comments
I do like the way you have framed this siuaotitn and it does supply me a lot of fodder for thought. Nevertheless, through what precisely I have seen, I basically hope when other opinions pack on that individuals stay on issue and don't get started upon a tirade of some other news du jour. Still, thank you for this excellent piece and whilst I do not necessarily concur with it in totality, I regard your perspective.
Well Dohn....it's now Sept 2010 and I'm heading to Vegas next week! I have tickets to Cirque du Soleil's "Mystere". I'll be staying at The Mirage part of the time I'm there. I'm so excited, I can hardly wait!
dohn I have not been to Vegas for quite a long time, before the Ballagio and Venitian were built. But it's a great place, so much to do and see. There is something ridiculous about Vegas, the fake volcano at where ever it was with the ground rumbling. We took several drives out into the desert, incredible country just moments away from the glitz. We actually saw wild mustangs!
You cover all of the main sights and some most tourists never know about, like Ethel M. Chocolate Factory. The free cactus garden there is very pretty. I had a fare out there one day and spent an hour taking pictures. FYI Ethel M. is one of the two M's in M&M's. The gift shop has everything M&M related you could ever want.
Fremont St. is pretty cool, especially on the weekends. I live exactly 1 mile from it, yet I hardly ever go down there. If there is anything Vegas related you want pictures to use for here I probably have one or can get it. I notice you have no Welcome to Las Vegas Sign.
I think i'll go for the chocolate factory!!! Sounds amazing! It all must feel like a totally different world, one i hope to experience one day.
Thanks for all the detailed information Dohn. See you soon in another comment section of yours!
Thanks for the memories, dohn121. It's been about five years or so since I've been to Las Vegas and I'm dying to get back! You are right about the cab drivers, though--I do NOT get along with Vegas cabbies!
Anyone going to Las Vegas should go to a quaint little restaurant in the Four Queens downtown called "Hugo's Cellar". It is not cheap and while they don't have a dress code per se, you will get seated in the back if you're not dressed nicely. It has outstanding service, wonderful food, and the best salad you have ever eaten. I know a salad doesn't sound like a reason to visit a restaurant in Vegas, but trust me, it really is. They will make it at your table and come by with a cart filled with about 15 items to put on you salad. It is wonderful. They have great lobster tails, crab legs, duck and prime rib, by the way...
I mourn the loss of the Star Trek Experience in the Las Vegas Hilton. It was a tribute to all things Trekkie, complete with Klingons (one of them a very attractive woman) and Ferrengi walking around interacting with the customers. The restaurant was "Quark's Bar", and there were two interactive rides and a museum of Star Trek artifacts. It was fun...
I also enjoy the Stratospere, the 110 story tower on the near edge of the Strip. It has an upscale restaurant at the Top of the Tower and a terrific viewing area. The locals call it a good place to gamble, also.
Wish I were there right now!!!!!
Great Hub, Dohn! My wife and I spent our honeymoon out in Vegas and it was a blast. We also visited the Grand Canyon and did the West rim tour. We did not go on the Skywalk, you could not even pay us enough money for that, lol. It is a neat place and I know we will go out there again. We were there for six days and did see alot but we could have saw so much more. I would say it is worth going out there. Also, a tip for anyone going out to Vegas. Cab rides and food is much more expensive than what we had anticipated. Other than that, it was a blast.
great post I really like the The Venetian. and the Mirage.
I Love that its the city that never sleeps. I will have to see the Blue Man group next time.
hi DOHN, I have been there last year courtesy of some Filipino friends, we just rode in acar, what a travel that was, but it was all worth it! Like you I want to return again there maybe early next year, April!
Have a good day!
Hi again dohn121,
Your great hub is now linked to mine about the Secret Garden as well. Thanks! Will fill in lots of blanks for people who want more of an overview of Las Vegas.
The Bellagio would be a great place to stay. Great art on display, etc. For people like us who do not live there, it would be a never ending exploration as they keep building new hotels and of course, the shows keep changing. Quite a place!
Hello dohn121,
I would be honored to add this link to my Las Vegas hub regarding the Secret Garden at the Mirage. I solely focused on that...but what you have offered is a wonderful and wide glance at the Las Vegas scene in general. As you said...you could go on and on about the food, shows, etc. Nice job! Let me know if you would like this linked to my hub.
You know what is funny, everyone talks about Ethel M Chocolate Factory not many people actually go there. To far away from Strip. I love to go to Youtube and watch all the videos people make about living here... big list of stuff people actually do.. http://www.kidsinvegas.com/most-popular-las-vegas-... all youtube videos. But pretty cool. There is so much to do here actually if you like shows and gambling.
Did you know the Nevada Law makes the Slot machines payback 75%. So house automatically makes 25%! This is good hub, I vote it up. Lots of people write about but don't do good job.
I love visiting Vegas. The downside is getting onto the strip by car, but once you're there, there's a gazillion things to do. We have stayed in New York New York and Planet Hollywood. We also stayed at The Plaza...only do that if you need quick access to the Greyhound Bus Station--it is surrounded by the hotel. Love your writing!
Wow, great hub. I definitely want to go to Vegas one day before I die :) I'm not big on the heat but I wouldn't have to step outside in Vegas. In the meantime, I go to the casino in Niagara Falls once in a while. I usually break even, or at least lately I make sure I do or that I only lose $40 at the most.
Well I am glad you loved our great city....We do hope you come back and visit again. There is so much to do here besides gamble bring many more people and of course be sure to tell everybody about the best time in your life
MIRAGE
Dohn, what a superb hub! How am I supposed to get all of this in on my trip in Sept 2010?! Wow, you were very thorough. I have to bookmark this one. I am dying to see "O". I've only see "Alegria" live. I've seen "Dralion" and "La Nouba" on DVD. I'll put a link to this hub on my "Google Earth-Viewing American Icons" hub!
beautiful hub like the song i dont remember who sang it though, can anybody tell me?
Wow - you packed a ton of information into this...might just have to take a second trip to catch all the things I missed the first time LOL - thanks for all the great info!
thanks for sharing this nice trip
Ha ha ha ha that's good to know. We'll burn the place down! No friggin' kidding! Woohoo!
Las Vegas is da bomb! When I hit big, I'm definitely making a stop there. Ha! I'll be remembering this hub, Dohn!
Nice way to spend 401k vs flighty corporate failings.
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