Alison Rice asks Simon Calder to explain what’s so special about Las Vegas and if this flashy destination has anything to offer non-gamblers.
According to Simon, Las Vegas is one of those places you don’t understand until you get there, and maybe not even then. “It is astonishing – it’s one of the places where as soon as you get off the plane you know it’s not like anywhere else. You see a bank of one arm bandits waiting for you and gambling is what keeps the place going. The first time I visited I lost $10 in about five seconds but since then I’ve not even bothered gambling – it’s not compulsory.”
So, asks Alison, what can you do if you don’t want to gamble – is it still worth going? “Absolutely” says Simon, before reeling off a long list of entertainment that’s completely free for visitors and well worth doing; including cruising up and down Las Vegas Boulevard at nightfall as the lights are just coming on, staring in astonishment at some of the amazing hotels that Las Vegas has to offer – such as the Venetian which comes complete with canals and gondoliers; and watching the amazing and world famous fountain display at the Bellagio.
Simon also points out that there is lots to see and do just a short distance from Las Vegas central – including Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam prob the original London Bridge and the amazing landscape of Death Valley.
And if you are thinking of getting married in Las Vegas you will be in good company – Simon himself married his wife Charlotte there at the County Court House. Says Simon: “It was very nice, very civilized and very cheap. And there’s the advantage that you’re already somewhere wonderful on honeymoon.”
So with more and more direct flights, some of the best hotels in the world, and amazing entertainment thrown in free of charge and plenty to do apart from gamble - what are you waiting for?
Some of the content of the magazine refers to flights or prices from the UK. At Travel Counsellors Ireland we can source flights from Ireland and provide full quotes in Euros. Please call me for latest availability and prices.
