Las Vegas: The real Happiest Place on Earth

There is no real secret to enjoying Vegas. It's in your face whether you like it or not, from gambling to shopping to shows and to all types of debauchery, it's got you covered.


Accommodation:
I stayed at Harrah's Casino. For two reasons. One: price. It is the lesser known of all the big casinos such as MGM, Bellagio, Venetian, Caesars and Luxor's etc etc. It still comes with all the amenities to have a very comfortable stay, admittedly I didn't stay in the penthouse so if you're after that type of experience seek further advice.

The second reason is the most important and consistent with the reason I choose any accommodation: location. For anyone who is unfamiliar with the layout of Las Vegas, the biggest attractions are located on the South Las Vegas Blvd strip, aka the Strip.

Harrah's is located on the Strip, smack bang in the middle of all the other main attractions. MGM Grand, Fountains of Bellagio, Pyramid of Luxor, Eiffel tower...just walk south.

The shopping centre's, Stratosphere, Circus Circus, The Venetian...just walk north. If you're thinking I left off Caesar's, don't despair. Just cross the road and you're there.

If walking isn't your thing, there is a monorail attached to Harrah's which has several stops, going as far south as the MGM Grand and as far north as the Sahara (or at least where the Sahara was).


Getting to accommodation/the Strip:
For those who are flying you will arrive at the McCarran International Airport.

There are no railway lines to the strip. However a number of bus and shuttle bus operations run out of all the terminals, click here for options and information.

I went by taxi, the Strip is not too far from the airport. Do not be deterred by long lines to get a taxi, the airport staff are quite efficient at getting people away quite quickly. Taxi from the airport to Harrah's was $US15 (inclusive of tip).

No lack of signage in Las Vegas.

Tips:
Beat the crowds: The week before and leading up to Christmas / Hanukkah, most performers have their holiday break. The entertainment is light, but so are the crowds.

Gambling: I dabbled in Texas Hold Em' mostly. Casinos offer certain specials to entice you to gamble at their casino (e.g. pocket Aces and still lose the pot win $500 from casino). Casino's either have specials advertised within or just ask staff.

Drinking: In most major casinos if you're gambling, drinks are either free or heavily reduced, but have to be ordered through waitstaff. The bigger the tip to waitstaff, the more frequent and quicker they will be taking your orders.

Recommendation 1: Thrill rides at the Stratosphere.

Recommendation 2: Day trip to Hoover's Dam/Grand Canyon. Organise with your hotel or check out options on Viator.

Hoover Dam and Eagle Rock at the Grand Canyon on a day tour fromVegas