travelwithjamesdean.ca

Las Vegas, Nevada

Previously, the saying was “What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas”, but I see that more recently the official website is using “What Happens Here, Only Happens Here” which seems to have softened their connection with the slightly more trashy reputation.
Often called the “Disneyland for Adults”, the city offers the Las Vegas versions of the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Venice Canals, even the New York skyline with a Statue of Liberty.The list of entertainment choices is unlimited - anything from 5 different Cirque du Soleil shows, musical productions large and small, comedy and magic as well as the more racy, X Burlesque or Australia’s Thunder From Down Under strip shows. AND, Las Vegas is still the main destination for those interested in gambling, whether slot machines or high roller games tables.
(Note: Legal prostitution is NOT allowed in Las Vegas, but available in other areas in Nevada)

For a Glimpse of the “Real” Old-Time Las Vegas

You really need to get away from the Las Vegas Strip along Las Vegas Blvd, with all its billion dollar flashy casinos, and head to Fremont Street.
The Vegas that most people know from the old movies, showing the Golden Nugget, Binions, and the neon cowboy sign (known as Vegas Vic) is quite a sight with the free light shows at Fremont Street Experience that also include concerts and entertainment are quite spectacular...However, in the casinos, we were quite shocked at the clientele that looked a lot more down-on-their-luck than you would find on the “Strip”.
It is still quite an interesting experience to take a taxi up to see for yourself.

Casino Security Pay Special Attention to Margarita Drinkers.!!

You will notice that the relatively unrestricted availability of alcoholic drinks along the Vegas Strip allows people to wander around drinking - quite unlike many other places. Our experience, on a very hot summer day, was to get a margarita at one of the local on-street bars. The attractive bartender, refused to sell me a small drink.!! She said that they make it prohibitively expensive compared to the “Yard of Margarita” so large that it comes with a string to hang around your neck.!!!
(Note: Wandering the streets is ok, but you with definitely be noticed as soon you enter every casino - as you are asked, “how are you doing” to check on sobriety.!!!)

Famous All-You-Can-Eat Buffets in Vegas.??

Las Vegas is full of stories of those legendary meals at incredibly cheap prices, but long gone are those days...
On the way to the hotel from the airport we asked the taxi driver where to eat. (As we have done very well getting ideas from locals, about where they would have dinner for their own family celebrations).
His suggestion was the Ellis Island BBQ at the Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, that just happened to be right beside our stay at the Platinum Hotel & Spa, just off Las Vegas strip.
As far as casinos go, it certainly was been a landmark for almost 50 years, the family-owned hotel is affordable and comfortable - but compared to the massive uber casinos, it may appear to be, not be your first choice for dinner.
The first night we tried, but it was packed and they said they would be running out of their signature ribs...so, returning the next night we were in luck - and if you are looking for some of the best BBQ in Vegas - Ellis Island BBQ is THE place.!!! These were some of the best ribs l have ever had, (and l have to say l do some pretty great homemade ribs & chicken myself.!)

Suggestion for the Great Taste of Olde Las Vegas.!

Battista’s Hole in the Wall has been serving up authentic Italian meals in the same location since 1970.
They say “Immerse yourself in old time Las Vegas memorabilia and enjoy food with friendly personal service.”
Which is exactly what we discovered. Meals are all inclusive, with house wine served in a ceramic jug (like in Italy), as well as a cappuccino.!! Atmosphere definitely brought back an old Vegas days vibe, and food-wine was very good, but not amazing.But, still an experience and a relief from all the overpriced casino fare.