Las Vegas had always been on the hit list, but after falling in love with New York a few years ago, the husband and I wanted to explore more of America so it quickly became a must.
So last year we decided to head there on honeymoon. Staying at the Venetian we spent 5 nights of what can only be described as surreal craziness. The place doesn't stop, let alone sleep. Shows, bars, mob museums, restaurants, pools, casinos, shops, exhibitions you name it, it's all in abundance. Vegas is like a theme park for adults on so many levels. I've never seen anything like it! On our first day we found ourselves up and about by 6am due to the time difference, and the casino was buzzing. We weren't sure if people were up early like us, or still awake from the night before!
I enjoy being on the go when on holiday so it was the ideal destination for me. I loved soaking up the pure extravagance, so much so that we headed back to celebrate our first wedding anniversary back in August, this time staying at the Bellagio. We had just as fabulous a time the second time around.
Here's my 5 must do activities:
1. Explore the casinos and hotels
No two are the same, and each have their own quirks and sights to see including gondola rides at the Venetian, a Titanic exhibition at the Luxor, The Eiffel Tower At Paris, the MGM Lions or the famous Bellagio fountains. It's like a treasure trail for adults!
2. Experience some celebrity chefs
The husband and I love trying new places to eat so we were in an element surrounded by a multitude of celebrity chef establishments. Our fave's included Wolfgang Puck's Cut (expensive but delicious), Gordon Ramsey's BurGR (Bad service, but the best burger I have ever tasted), and Guy Fieri's (the chicken wings and cocktails are to die for!).
3. Catch a show
It's no secret that I love the theatre and the extravagance of the shows in Vegas are extraordinary. We were lucky enough to catch Rod Stewart at the Colosseum, and I was blown away by Cirque du Soleil's Michael Jackson, One. There is something for everyone - musicals, circus, pop concerts, tribute acts, Vegas show girls, drag acts - you name it!
4. Head out to the Grand Canyon
A helicopter ride out to the Grand Canyon isn't that cheap but it was our honeymoon treat but it was so worth it. We flew out over the desert taking in sights like the Hoover Dam before landing to have a champagne breakfast in the Grand Canyon. Our route back included flying over the Vegas strip which is breathtaking. Definitely something to add to your bucket list!
5. Visit old Vegas!
Old Vegas is most the original Sin City so make sure you head down to Fremont Street. Prepare to see the most bizarre sights, as well as men and women in the smallest of outfits. There's also regular live music and DJ sets as well as all the old school casinos and hangouts made famous from the likes of the Rat Pack. If you're feeling extra brave you can zip wire the length of the strip!
...these are very broad recommendations simply because there is so much to do! What's great about the place is whatever your interests are, you're likely to find something to appeal. I can definitely see us returning again in the future... maybe we'll renew our vows one day, with Elvis conducting the ceremony... maybe!