TRAVEL: A long weekend in Las Vegas

Regarded as the most exciting city in the world, I made a stop-off at Sin City whilst touring California…

Soak up the lights and sounds of the famous strip with endless shopping; dine out at celebrity chef restaurants; drop some serious coin in the casinos; and party with world famous DJs day and night.

Fly with Spirit:

Taking an internal flight from Los Angeles to McCarran Las Vegas Airport was fascinating – flying low with views over the desert took just 50 minutes and cost less than $30 (plus $30 to check in a suitcase) with US budget airline, Spirit.

A taxi to the Vegas strip from the airport cost $20 – but don’t forget an expected 18% tip. There’s an organised taxi rank where official taxi drivers queue for your custom. Pay cash or card but be aware of non-sterling transaction fees that can quickly add up if you’re using your card here and there.

Stay at Bellagio:

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Bellagio is an AAA Five Diamond Resort and Casino, located at the centre of the Las Vegas strip.

Recognisable by the famous outdoor fountains that sit affront, this huge complex features 3,933 guest rooms and suites, 13 restaurants, bars and cafes, an award winning casino, shopping, pools and spa.

The rooms are contemporary, spacious and luxurious; our floor length window had stunning views over the pool and relaxation areas which define paradise.

To the back of the lobby, discover the conservatory and botanical gardens – a seasonal display of flowers and plants. The summer theme – Under the Sea – is on display until September 10, 2016.

Room prices start from $199 per night – but be sure to account for an additional tax and resort fee on departure; this cost us $15 per person, per night.

Eat breakfast at Mon Ami Gabi:

Situated below Paris Hotel, directly across from Bellagio, you’ll find the best pancakes in Vegas!

Two giant skinny crepes topped with caramelised apples were just one of the mouth-watering menu options – enjoyed from the outdoor terrace of Mon Ami Gabi French restaurant, overlooking the Bellagio Fountains.

Every 30 minutes there’s a display of water, music and light at the Bellagio, so keep a lookout!

Shop at Miracle Mile and Caesar’s Palace:

Las Vegas certainly doesn’t have a shortage of shops. In almost every hotel you’ll find designer names from Chanel to Louis Vuitton; but you’ll also discover some budget friendly hidden treasures in Miracle Mile as well as big brand names from H&M to Victoria Secret.

The shopping centres are an experience in themselves; known as the shopping wonder of the world, ride the elevators in stunning Ceasar’s Palace Forum Shops and admire the architecture, statues and sky-like moving ceiling above as you let loose in the 160 shops and restaurants.

See Le Reve: The Dream at Wynn Hotel:

Voted the best production show in Vegas, Le Reve: The Dream is performed within an aqua theatre at the Wynn Hotel.

Surprisingly, front row seats come at no extra cost as they’re in the ‘splash zone’; but if you don’t mind the odd drop of water coming your way, buy your tickets in advance for the best seat in the theatre.

From a heart-stopping high dive to an underwater tango, the dance, music and fire show will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Have dinner at Top of the World:

Take in the best skyline views of Vegas at Top of the World.

Located more than 800ft above the Stratosphere Hotel and Casino, the award winning restaurant boasts unparalleled views of the Vegas strip thanks to its revolving floor.

Enjoy your meal as the floor moves 360 degrees, showcasing every view of Vegas during your meal. You can see the floor moving if you look carefully. But you won’t feel a thing.

If that isn’t enough, watch as sky divers plummet from above the restaurant windows and see the brave take on the adrenaline thriller rides on the platform above.

It’s an unmissable experience.

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