Las Vegas is one of the world’s must-see places. When the sun goes down and the Strip comes to life, there is no other place on earth quite like Sin City. And whether you are there to party, gamble, eat in world-class restaurants, catch a show, or all of the former, there really is something for everyone (Pictured: The Legends in Concert show at Flamingo Hotel & Casino).
But as the saying goes, you can have too much of a good thing – Vegas certainly offers excess and indulgence in unrivalled quantities – so it’s important to plan ahead and prepare for what the place has to offer.
Below is a quick guide to surviving a weekend in Las Vegas, while helping you make the most of your stay in the City of Sin.
Plan ahead:
It’s important to plan your trip to Las Vegas ahead of time. Sin City has more to offer than can be seen in any given weekend, so you need to pick and choose the things you would like to do the most. When it comes to taking in a show, make sure you reserve your tickets in advance as they often sell out. The same goes for restaurant reservations; if you want to eat in a particular restaurant – especially on weekends or when a major event is taking place on the Strip – make a reservation to avoid disappointment.
Pace yourself:
The Strip comes to life after sun set, so it’s important to rest as much as you can through the day. Whether lounging round your hotel pool, or enjoying a treatment at one of the world-class spas, recuperation time needs to be factored into your stay. Another suggestion from Jackpot.co.uk is to develop a sleep schedule in order to get the rest you need while not missing out on the action; five hours from 5am to 10am with a 60 minute nap in the early evening. Whatever method you chose, it’s important not to go overboard, particularly on your first night.
Transportation:
There are plenty of ways to get around Las Vegas, from taxis to buses, monorails to Segways. For those arriving via McCarran International Airport, taxis and limousines are the fastest route to the Strip, but come at a premium. For those a little more cost conscious, group shuttles go from the airport to most of the major hotels/resorts, but queuing can be an issue during peak season. Of course, once you have arrived at your destination the best way to get around is on foot, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of Las Vegas at your leisure.
Eating and drinking:
Las Vegas is fast becoming one of the world’s top destinations for food, with celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsey, Alain Ducasse, and Nobu Matsuhisa among those with restaurants on the Strip. But it’s not all Michelin-star fine-dining, with countless steak houses, burger joints, bistros and sushi bars also on offer. No trip to Vegas is complete without a feast at one of the many all you can eat buffets; The Buffet at the Bellagio is among the best with dinner starting at $36.99 per person.
For those looking to quench their thirst, there are plenty of cocktails bars and night clubs. Bound at the Cromwell offers a sophisticated setting with a drinks menu curated by esteemed mixologist, Salvatore Calabrese. If you are wanting to take things up a gear, and into the early hours of the morning, head to Hakkasan where some of the world’s top DJs – from Calvin Harris to Tiësto – will help you party the night away.
Gambling:
A trip to the casino should be part of any trip to Las Vegas, but before you put $20 on black, remember to apply for a member/loyalty card. You don’t have to be staying in the hotel where you are playing in order to be eligible for one, but if you are then make sure you use it whenever you make a purchase – food, drink, souvenirs – and especially when gambling. The more you spend the more points you earn, which can then be redeemed against future purchases during or after your stay.
When roaming the casino floor, remember to find the slots machines and tables that fit your gambling budget, which you should set in advance. For those looking to simply enjoy the experience, head for the low limit machines and tables – usually around $5 – and remember to keep track of what you are spending. For total novices, some of the casinos, such as the Venetian, even offer complimentary lessons on how to play some of the games.
Sightseeing:
Over the years, Las Vegas has evolved into more than just a gambling Mecca, so allow time to take in some of the other sights. The famous dancing fountains at the Bellagio are a must, as is a ride on the X- Scream roller coaster on top of the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino. For those looking for a more sedate experience, the High Roller is a giant Ferris wheel offering uninterrupted views over the Strip. Other activities include Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage, the Mob Museum, and indoor golf.
