Las Vegas - Overview
“What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas“ is the well known catchphrase of the city that never sleeps. Marketed as the entertainment capital of the world, the city attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, each looking to experience some of its magic. Located in the state of Nevada, Las Vegas is home to around half a million inhabitants although it feels much busier thanks to the huge numbers of tourists. Nicknamed Sin City a number of massive hotels and casinos are located in the desert metropolis that invites guests to forget about reality and enter a fantasy land.
Perhaps the most well established reason for travel to Las Vegas is to gamble. Nevada was the first state to fully legalise gambling; allowing Las Vegas to become the home of gaming in the U.S. With thousands of slot machines as well as traditional casino games such as Blackjack, Poker and Roulette millions of dollars are won and lost each day. Casinos offer the gambler everything they need in an attempt to keep them playing, different bars and restaurants can be found as well as luxury shops and boutiques where winners can spend their money. Take some time out from playing and sit and people watch for some free entertainment.
As well as being gaming centre of the U.S., Las Vegas is often referred to as the wedding capital of the world. Once a wedding license has been obtained from the Las Vegas Wedding Bureau (open 6am to midnight daily!) brides and grooms can be married by anyone with authority to perform weddings in the state of Nevada. From traditional religious ceremonies to extravagantly themed events presided over by Elvis, nothing is too much in this city of dreams.
Getting out of the city opens up a wealth of opportunities to get involved in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking and water rafting. The proximity of Las Vegas to the Red Rock Canyon, the Spring Mountains and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area makes it a great place to take in some natural scenery whilst keeping fit. For those looking for a more relaxed trip there are many companies which offer reasonably priced tours of the surrounding beauty spots.
With many restaurants located within the hotels and along the Strip, catering for every taste and budget it would be impossible not to find a good meal in the city. Bars and clubs are also plentiful with most staying open until 4am, seven days a week, and for those that haven’t had enough there are day clubs like Wet Republic which combines a club and a pool. For the best venues expect to wait in line for entry, sometimes up to two hours, unless you’re one of the “High Rollers” given special treatment and VIP entry. Drinking in Vegas is not cheap with local beers costing up to $, however casinos provide complimentary drinks to gamblers where a tip for the server is expected.