Destination spotlight: Las Vegas

Situated in Nevada’s Mojave Desert, Las Vegas is a dazzling resort city renowned for its vibrant nightlife, world-class shows and its award-winning restaurants.

There really is something for everyone in Vegas and most of the activity and hotels are centred around the Strip which is home to an impressive selection of hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and of course, the legendary 24-hour casinos. As Elvis sang “Bright light city – gonna set your soul on fire!”

If you are looking for opulence, then Las Vegas won’t disappoint. The Strip (which is just over four miles long) is the main mecca for visitors to stay in the city. One of the most popular hotels is the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino which is the second largest hotel in the world. One of the highlights of this luxury hotel is the Grand Pool Complex where you will find four swimming pools, three whirlpools, waterfalls and Vegas’ longest lazy river.

Many hotels in this area are themed and when Vegas does a theme, they really go to town! Experience life in ancient Rome at Caesar’s Palace, or traverse down a series of elaborate canals in the Venice-inspired Venetian Hotel. Not made it to Egypt yet?  Why not pay a visit to the Luxor Las Vegas where guest rooms line the outer edge of the pyramid.

If a themed-hotel isn’t your (travel) bag, then there are some fabulous hotels to choose from. The Link with its vibrant, contemporary style is a great cost-effective option. The Artisan Hotel is a hip, creative boutique hotel that celebrates the world of art with reproduction paintings of Cezanne, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and more adorning the wall.

Have a chat with your Personal Travel Expert to find the best hotel in Las Vegas for you.

Las Vegas is renowned for its casino reputation and with over 100 casinos in downtown Vegas, it is easy to see why. You don’t necessarily have to be a high roller to enjoy casino life, but one of the places that you can place a bet at surely has to be the world-famous Caesars Palace which is one of the few remaining ‘old school’ casinos. It has one of the best atmospheres along the Strip and you really feel that you could see a member of the Rat Pack sauntering by as you select red or black.

Love live music? Las Vegas has always had a strong reputation for attracting some of the world’s biggest stars. Gwen Stefani, Aerosmith, Cher, Mariah Carey and Lady Gaga are all scheduled to hit the stage at various venues throughout the strip.

A trip to Vegas cannot be complete without seeing one of the incredible Cirque Du Soleil shows – choose from Michael Jackson ONE, O and the fabulous The Beatles LOVE.

You can eat your way around the city with ease thanks to Vegas’ extensive selection of restaurants. Do you love a good steak? Head over to Wolfgang Puck’s elegant restaurant CUT. Diners can choose from a succulent filet mignon, a classic New York sirloin or even a Japanese and American wagyu.

Is the Venetian making you crave some Italian food? Marc Vetri’s eponymous restaurant - Vetri Cucina offers the most incredible Italian cuisine including Chef Vetri’s signature dish of spinach gnocchi with brown butter and shaved ricotta salata simply melts in the mouth.

Vegans and vegetarians needn’t worry, as there are lots of great restaurants to choose from. Locals rave about VegeNation where the food is 100% plant-based. Diners can choose from sushi, burgers, tacos – all of which are vegan or veggies. The menu highlight has to be the delicious brownie sundae which is made from black beans – simply sublime!

Get ready to flash the cash! Whether you favour designer labels or vintage one-offs, if you love to shop, then Vegas won’t disappoint. From budget to blow-out, there is something for everyone and best of all the shops are open until midnight, making it ideal for those late-night shoe shopping expeditions.

Label lovers can head downtown to the Las Vegas Premium Outlets North where you can pick up treats from the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, Hugo Boss and more. 

You haven’t been to Vegas unless you pick up something kitsch? Whether this is an Elvis T-shirt, a hula girl for your dashboard or even the obligatory furry dice, why not pick up a cool souvenir for you or for a friend?

Top Tip: If you are planning to shop until you drop, why not bring an extra empty suitcase with you (as part of your luggage allowance) so you can really ‘fill your boots’.

Need some serious Zen after living your best life in Las Vegas? Head to the spa where you can get some serious R&R. Locals swear by the spa at the Mandarin Oriental and the Imperial Spa which is open 24 hours a day and provides a range of revitalising treatments that are not too expensive.

After a late night, we are sure that you will need your caffeine fix. Makers & Finders is a great coffee house in the up and coming Downtown Arts District. Las Vegas residents flock here to try their expertly-brewed coffee which includes a delightful coconut-turmeric blend.

If you are looking to escape the city, why not take a hike in one of the many beautiful areas near the city? From the epic Valley of Fire to the calming Clark Country Wetlands Park where you can see the likes of a great blue heron, fish and turtles amongst the ponds and reeds that make up the park. Best of all, it is only 30 minutes from the main Strip.

Ready to discover Las Vegas? Get in touch with your Personal Travel Expert today.