Since we packed so much into this trip, there’s no way I can give a synopsis of the entire vacation. So, because I love top 10 lists so much – here are the top 10 experiences I had in Vegas.
- Vegas is expensive! I knew it would be pricy – but at times, I felt as if I were being robbed. We didn’t gamble, so I can’t imagine how expensive Vegas is for gamblers. The food is pricy, mostly because the cheapest place to eat is the odd dodgy buffet or Denny’s. We never found a Wendy’s, Taco Bell, etc (not that we really eat that kind of food). Also, you can’t hail a cab from the street, you can only get them at the hotels. So, you have to tip the doorman for hailing you a cab, then you have to pay and tip the cabby! *sheesh*
- The Stratosphere is a tourist trap. If you ever go to Vegas, skip the Stratosphere (hotel, restaurant, and rides) all together. The hotel is super old, and wreaks of whiskey, cigs, and body odor. Strange enough, we saw tons of families there – babies and all. The ‘Top of the World’ restaurant food was subpar, and I actually felt a little nauseous from the revolving restaurant floor. What’s worse is you can vaguely see the roller coaster ride above you and bungie jumpers flying off the side of the building. Super tacky – skip it!
- The Palms. Next to the Venetian, Encore, and the Aria – this is definitely the place to be. While we were there, Vegas was holding the “Love Festival” which is a 4 day fest full of DJs ‘spinning’ all over the city. The music was constantly pumping through this hotel. It was kind of fun spotting Pauly D from MTV’s Jersey Shore. The only con to the Palms is, it’s a bit away from the Strip – so you must take a taxi. No walking to this venue. If you really want to spot celebs, book a reservation at N9NE steakhouse.
- Alize Restuant atop the Palms. This French restaurant had the best food that I’ve ever tasted in my life – hands down! We were a party of four, but it felt as if every waiter catered to our table. They were so attentive, and it also helped that our waiter was French as well. I had the French onion soup, and the roasted chicken (which was super moist and tender). My friend got the salmon (which was topped with black truffles!). And I finally got to try an ‘amuse bouche’ (term which I happily learned from Top Chef).
- The Bellagio. This is where we stayed, and it’s definitely high class all the way – starting with the lovely ceiling glass sculpture, and vast marble foyer. We booked two deluxe rooms for the 4 of us – but we all could have really stayed in one room. The bathrooms were huge, and of course – marble from floor to ceiling. My friends booked a room overlooking the Bellagio fountain. And here’s a tip – the Bellagio fountain show is spectacular from the street, but it’s even more breathtaking from the upper rooms. If you’re going to Vegas solely to party, this may not be the hotel for you. It can appear quite stuffy and a bit formal. But it was nice to feel like I was in a scene from Ocean’s Eleven for the weekend. And sitting by one of the eight calming swimming pools was so relaxing after a night out.
- Caesar’s Palace. Caesar’s is next to the Bellagio – but it’s nothing like it’s next door neighbor. In fact, Caesar’s is the complete opposite of stuffy and formal. This is one of the party hotels, and you get that vibe just walking through the casino and hallways. Lots of young people here, and not a ‘family’ or ‘baby stroller’ in sight. This hotel may be just as grand as the Bellagio, with it’s lovely fountains, shops, marble, and gardens. Pop over to Serendipity’s 3 right outside Caesar’s for a fabulous ice cream sundae.
- The Strip. I had this idea that as soon as I got to Vegas, I would be instantly bombarded by advertisements of peep shows, and debauchery around every corner. Oddly enough, Vegas can be somewhat tame. You almost have to go out of your way to find that kind of stuff. The Strip is actually quite beautiful – especially when lit up at night. There’s tons to do for the ‘innocent’ – like comedy shows, Cirque du Soleil, live concerts, etc. There’s always something to see. The Strip itself is sensory overload for newbies. Definitely make time to just stroll the street (and bring comfy walking shoes).
- Cirque du Soleil “O”. This show isn’t overrated. It’s spectacular! A little on the odd side in parts (hey, it’s French! lol), but quite riveting. You won’t be able to take your eyes of the pool/stage/platform. It was such awesome choreography, seeing how the pool was integrated in every scene with the acrobats and divers. My favorite part (besides the fire handlers) was the 3 diving ‘swing’ platforms. “O” tickets are well worth the price tag. And remember, the front rows are ‘wet’ seats – which means you will need a poncho. In my opinion, front/center in the Orchestra section was a perfect view. And far enough away from the French clowns that ran through the audience.
- Fashion Show Mall. This mall has many of the same stores you’re probably used to (Nemians, Macy’s, Saks, etc) – but they are all on steroids! The stores are twice as big, and the clothes twice as glamorous. And, the mall sports quite a long runway for it’s periodic runway shows. Another bonus, here you can get reasonably priced food. We saw a Johnny Rockets and California Pizza Kitchen here.
- The People. Everyone is glamorous – or at least, they think they are. You can wear just about anything. And for those who are normal enough not to expose all their ‘goodies’, it’s fun to people watch. There are some strange characters in this town. And every now and again, if you look closely, you will spot a DJ, a celeb, a sports personality, etc. If nothing else, stake your spot in a high-traffic area and just stare people down. It’ll be the highlight of your day (or night). Trust me.
One of Bellagio's Outdoor Pools
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