Traditionally a cheap and cheerful destination, Karen Creed checks out modern day Vegas and its eclectic attractions.
Dubai, New York, Las Vegas: like or loathe them, these are three international cities that are a must visit, even just to be able to state your view on whether they deserve their iconic status. Las Vegas in particular has become a massive hit on the tourist trail in the last decade, now racking up more than three million visitors every month. Traditionally sold to domestic tourists as “a cheap and cheerful getaway”, the monopoly of casinos and the clever foresight of property tycoons have resulted in an extravagant metropolis that is heaps more chic than cheap. Stag parties swarm here, couples honeymoon in its sumptuous hotels, avid shoppers embark on major credit card sprees and night owls thrive on the never- ending list of entertainment. It is a wonderland of pure consumption.
I expected to arrive in Vegas and partake in the typical US activity for Irish visitors – shopping first in the outlets, followed by more purchasing in the hotel malls. The itinerary swiftly hangover package to lure fans of the movie. While the movie encompassed what Vegas was traditionally known for – gambling and copious amounts of alcohol – it is not as seedy as one might expect. In fact The Strip has a certain allure to it, with hotels like The Bellagio and its spectacular fountain display, Paris Las Vegas with its Eiffel Tower and The Venetian with their gondola rides – all taking centre stage. I was staying on the many celebrity chefs at their helm. Steak is one of the finest options, especially if you dine at Texas de Brazil, Mesa Grill and The Stack at the Mirage. Seafood also takes on larger than life portions and you can expect to see desserts triple the size you would be served at home. Just like most other American cities, Starbucks is within walking distance from almost anywhere – and packed with shoppers and gamblers looking for a caffeine fix.
Many will come to Vegas and not realise the shopping potential that surrounds this desert city. From the outlets a mere six miles from The Strip, to the independent malls and boutiques, there is fashion for all types and trends. Fashion Show Mall is a sprawling centre that houses favourite brands like Abercrombie and Sephora. My favourite, however, was Caesars Palace Shopping Forum, which boasts around 100 stores and is enough shopping space for a half day spree. From Armani Exchange to Guess by Marciano, there are sales on almost anytime of year. Men too can pick up some great deals whether their preference is Gap or Boss.
Most will agree, however, that Vegas is at its best when the night falls and the neon lights come out in all their glory. What to choose for entertainment is dependent on your interests. Broadway while the Cirque du Soleil is one of the most in demand spectacles in town. There are six Soleil shows in total with the Beatles “Love” being one of the most popular. From Garth Brooks to The Lion King, and dance to magic shows, there is a bevy of celebrities and multi-million production sets designed to thrill the Vegas visitor. Long running shows are the norm in Vegas with Donny and Marie Osmond being the current darlings of the entertainment circuit.
Vegas and romance may not instantly spring to mind but why then do thousands of couples descend on this city to not only honeymoon, but often tie the knot? Figures show the popularity of weddings in Vegas is overwhelming; with an estimated three couples from Ireland getting married in Vegas each week. A tour chapels will prove that the idea of a Vegas wedding being instigated by last minute, drunk situations is largely false. Weddings are usually held in a romantic setting in one of the intimate chapels with whatever theme you want. Elvis is undoubtedly the most in demand for weddings at the Graceland chapel: others include the Chapel of Love where Britney Spears famously got married in 2004, or the Chapel of the Bells where The Hangover was filmed. The appeal of a wedding in Vegas is definitely boosted by the price. It can be arranged for a recession busting $99.
Many couples will venture into the desert for their wedding pictures, followed by a reception in one of the city’s fine dining restaurants or hotels. For a wedding, honeymoon, or a holiday, Las Vegas is quite a distance from Europe, but once you are there it offers all sorts of road trips, day trips and twin breaks, if you have the time and money.
The Grand Canyon is the most obvious day tour, and definitely a great one to tick off your wish list. Arriving there by helicopter we had the best views of the crater below before landing at the Colorado River for a picnic. No picture can encompass the beauty of sitting on the side of the river with a champagne lunch, taking in the views of the canyon around us.
If I had the chance to head back to Vegas in winter I would drive up north to Lake Taho and spend a few days skiing there. Or in the summer time I would travel to nearby Arizona to enjoy the desert life or else take a trip up north to enjoy the coastal drive to Los Angeles. Whether I do it in style or on a budget will depend on how much I win first at the blackjack table in Vegas.
• Karen Creed flew from London Heathrow Airport with British Airways direct flight to Las Vegas.
Visit www.ba.com
• For accommodation visit www.mandalaybay.com which offers a lavish experience with spacious rooms, a luxurious spa, 24 hour entertainment and tempting cuisine.
• The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s mission centres on attracting ever-increasing numbers of leisure and business visitors to the area. For more information on Las Vegas and its new attractions visit www.visitlasvegas.com or contact your tour operator or local travel agent to book a Las Vegas holiday.
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