Something I enjoy doing in Las Vegas

So, the big trip is FINALLY here. Everyone is ready to hit the ground running in Las Vegas, Nevada. Palms are sweating. Laces are all tied. There's a problem...Nobody wants to gamble. What to do now?!

Sometimes, people who travel to Las Vegas assume that the ONLY thing to do in Vegas is gamble. I know, I have heard it from nearly a dozen people. In fact, as mentioned before, that's one reason why some people will not go to Sin City. Relax, everyone. Keep in mind that just because Las Vegas was founded on gambling doesn't mean that's the only thing to do there. Personally, I feel there's nothing better to do, some days, than just sit by the pool and sip a nice cocktail. Why not? It's vacation right; a getaway that has built up all this anticipation and adrenaline, but before we know it, it's over. Do everyone a favor. Take some time for YOU while in Las Vegas. Actually make a vacation out of it. I know for a fact that this year, I will definitely be hitting up a spa for a massage of at least a 60 minute duration.

Remember, Las Vegas is the Disneyland for adults. Take some time for yourself when visiting. Who knows what you will learn. It may be the only vacation where you can actually "get away for a while."

Be Smart! Play Hard! and Have Fun!

7s

Money Saving Tip: Slot Machines

It seems like a rush, right? Drop in 75 cents, pull the lever, and hope that the jackpot siren will go off. In all honesty, I recall seeing more people playing slots in Las Vegas casinos than anything else. Personally, I cannot sit in front of a slot machine for hours on end. At the same time, it could mostly be due to the game involving no player skill. Having the fate of the pull determined by a computer chip in a machine doesn't sit well with me; especially if I plan on investing hundreds of dollars in Las Vegas gambling.

When in a casino, I always encourage first timers to check out everything being offered. Many times, however, the flashing lights and sound effects put out by these money-hungry computers are impossible to resist. Take a page from my book: if slots are a new endeavor, start small and work your way up. Penny slots are a great way to spend a few bucks if gambling is completely new and nobody will be immediately overwhelmed. Don't be intimidated into thinking that high credit slots only have good payouts. I've personally hit a few small jackpots on penny slots and it is well worth the ten dollar investments. Just remember to set spending limits if your on the verge of becoming a slot machine junkie. Have fun, and remember to be responsible. I'll see you...in Las Vegas.

7s

Fan Questions Answered

Hey All,

First off, sorry for not writing in a few days as I have been battling quite a head cold over the last several days. I am hoping that it will be something that is on its way out. As most can see, I don't have an FAQ page created just yet and most pages are still being worked on (don't worry, I'll post when they are updated). However, I wanted to address a question I received in person earlier today:

"...my family and friends keep telling me to check out Las Vegas but I'm not really into gambling or partying very much. I just don't see a reason to go. What do you think?"

This really didn't surprise me as I have heard this question/these comments numerous times. The truth is that Las Vegas is not what it used to be. In fact, I would go as far to say that Vegas has more to do outside of gambling and drinking/partying than anything else.

I always enjoy going to Vegas with different people because I know there are thousands of things to do out there. For starters, check the entertainment calendar. There are hundreds of Las Vegas shows that run daily which may be right someone's alley. I've had the opportunity to see Phantom of the Opera (x2), Blue Man Group (x2), O, and Celine Dion. Don't forget to see who's touring through Vegas while being there. One of my greatest experiences was being 18 and not permitted in most casinos with my family. Sure, I was upset, but I was able to score tickets to Paul McCartney's Back in the U.S. tour at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, a sold out show of a living legend. I will remember that for the rest of my life and it happened in Vegas! Don't forget about the free nightly shows as well, such as the fountains at Bellagio or the Sirens of T.I.

There's also plenty of places to experience fine dining. Thomas Keller's Bouchon and Emril's Del Monico Steakhouse are two places I would never want to bypass. If luxurious dining isn't your bag, there are also places like Carnegie Deli in the Mirage or Planet Hollywood in Caesar's Palace.

The bottom line is don't let the old Vegas history stop a trip. At least experience what Las Vegas has to offer. It's like anything else, one should experience it before passing judgement. I'm not saying everyone will be a Vegas traveling guru like myself, but the experience will definitely last a lifetime. Thanks for the question!

7s