Travel Essay: Las Vegas - Party All Night Long

Getting on with my US Travel posts, the next stop after LA was the ever entertaining city of Las Vegas. I took an early morning flight and was greeted with the sight of tons of slot machines the minute I stepped into Vegas airport.

Now the thing is, I don't remember much of things I did there. High alcohol intake coupled with bright lights, loud music, the powerful party spirit floating in the air, and not to forget, the aging process, don't make matters any easier.

And don't they say, "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas".

So from whatever I can recollect, here is a list of things one can do when in Sin City.

MGM Lobby: Beauty Contestants posing for cameras

* MGM Grand: Do your best to get a room at the MGM Grand. It's one heck of a hotel with tons of restaurants, shops and clubs, all under one roof. The Rain Forest Cafe in MGM is very impressive and slightly expensive, but given the food and variety of cocktails, it's money well spent.

* Travel on Foot: Though Vegas does have mono-rail system which has stops at all major hotels on the strip, it is very expensive. It costs around $15 for a one day pass, so you are better off walking. But walking during day time can get a bit too dehydrating because of the hot and dry weather.

* Venetian Hotel: I would say that this is the best themed hotel when compared with other hotels on the strip. Not only is it grand looking on the outside but it will totally blow your mind with its near perfect replica of the city of Venice. Inside they have crystal blue water canals where you can get a Gondola ride. Tons of shops, numerous street acts, live music and amazing atmosphere.

* Aladdin Hotel: Now if you are looking to shop around then this is the place to go. Most Vegas hotels have very high branded shops so shopping could turn out to be very expensive deal. Aladdin, however, has more of reasonable priced brands and there are many to choose from.

Me and Delicious Margarita

* The Fountains of Bellagio: A must watch when in Vegas. Amazing display of a water show with music and colored lights. It happens just outside the Bellagio Hotel, every half an hour in the morning and every 15 minutes in the evening till midnight.

* The Pirate Show: Another must see act which takes place outside the Treasure Island hotel.

* Gambling: Well this works only if you have an extra load of money (alongwith immense blessings from Lady Luck).

Las Vegas is a city which everyone must visit if given the opportunity. It's an expensive place to stay, dine and get entertained. But the whole chilled out feeling and the bustling surroundings is an unique experience in itself.

Enjoy the snapshots :