The economy is bad right now. That’s a fact. Families are struggling, businesses are tightening belts and the government is flailing in the wind trying to find a way to stem the tide. The paradox, though, is that one of the ways to turn things around is consumer spending. With that, I won’t at all feel guilty over what I’m about to recommend. In fact, consider it President Barack Obama’s unofficial apology.
I just left Las Vegas and had a time that rivaled any I’d previously considered the best. I had a little … well, a great deal of help from the The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA)/R&R partners in tailoring a 3-day whirlwind experience for myself that left me determined to undermine the very phrase this agency helped make popular: “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” I must tell.
I’m not a gambler, I’m not rich, nor am I an intentional sinner. That said, I’ve never had much desire to ‘Viva Las Vegas.’ The reputation of the city, I felt, ran counter to my sensibilities and my wallet. But I discovered on this recent trip that there’s something there for everyone; you just need the knowledge of all the options and to develop a plan that fits you.
Enter R&R partners and LVCVA.
I sat with an amazing representative from the agency over lunch and she presented to me a wealth of information that detailed what Vegas has to offer. Shows, restaurants, spas, casinos, there was so much to choose from. We eventually narrowed the offerings down to my personal tastes: fine lodging, fine eating, and the arts, and off I went to reach my traveler’s nirvana.
Over the course of the next few days, I dined at Julian Serrano, RM Seafood and Tao Restaurant and Nightclub, caught The Lion King, Cirque Du Soleil’s Zumanity and George Wallace’s Comedy Show – all prominently featuring African Americans, and lodged at the swanky Planet Hollywood Westgate Resort and Casino. I’d visited Vegas before, but this go ’round left me with a newfound appreciation for not-so-hidden jewel. And I managed to escape with only a little sin to feel guilty about (Zumanity is quite the limit-pusher).
Sure, I happened to pass a few drunken women in wheelchairs, near street fisticuffs, and witnessed a DUI arrest or two, but if you know and adhere to your limits, explore the myriad of choices of entertainment and settle or stick to what fits you, you can board a return flight to your respective hometown unscathed and completely satisfied.
No matter how bad the economy gets, the need for personal pleasure and escapism will never go away. Consider it doctor’s orders and doing your part to stimulate the economy and plan for yourself or your family the perfect Vegas getaway. I did and now I have a newfound appreciation for the saying: Viva Las Vegas!
