| by Romer Cherubim
( May 16, 2013, London, Sri Lanka Guardian) The thought of Las Vegas, U.S.A. conjures up in the minds of many a holiday-maker, riotous pleasure whether it is in casinos or lap-dancing clubs. However, the city has much more to offer than this superficial view. I found this out on my most recent trip.
Passing through Customs at the first port of entry in U.S., the Customs Officer joked that she hoped I had enough money for the trip. The Customs Officer in question was, of course, right to question the wisdom of a holidaymaker spending a long time in the gaming capital of the world. However, all hoIidaymakers do not spend the entirety of their trip gambling. This is because Las Vegas has more to offer than just slot machines and roulette wheels.
For a start, Vegas is the venue, where every entertainer of note aspires to perform. Celine Dion and Elton John have residencies at Caesars Palace. I was fortunate enough to watch Shania Twain in concert at The Colosseum at Caesars. Attending this concert was reason enough for coming to Vegas!
Apart from being a premier venue for concerts, Vegas is, of course, famous for bringing the world to a holidaymaker. Venetian gondolas, the Egyptian Sphinx and Arthurian jousts are just a few of the global delights on offer here.
Naturally, mention must be made of Las Vegas’ capacity to entertain. However, you do not need to pay a nightclub fee to have an enjoyable time. In this regard, Mandalay Bay’s Mix Lounge offers a free, breathtaking, outdoor view of the Las Vegas Strip. If you want something more raunchy, you can visit Coyote Ugly at New York New York and see scenes from the film of the same name re-created for a small entry fee. If you just want to have a laugh, you can watch members of the public tackle the bucking bronco at Gilley’s at Treasure Island, where admission is again free.
An aspect of Las Vegas life, which many a holidaymaker will overlook is its university. Down Las Vegas Boulevard and past the casinos, you will find that Vegas has a university. University Of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) is a must for any holidaymaker, coming to Vegas, who wants a break from the casinos. The Souvenir Shop and the Student Union are worth a visit.
The casinos speak for themselves. However, it is important to note that the perception that you have to gamble in a casino is a mistaken one. Casinos are a great place to “people watch” with all aspects of human emotion on show, ranging from delight to despair, sometimes within a short period of time.
However, an abiding memory from this trip to Las Vegas, comes as a surprise. It is the city’s tolerance. One constant in all casinos is the sight of middle-aged women in low-cut outfits, working as cocktail waitresses. In other parts of the world, this would seem bizarre and be frowned upon. However, it is considered normal in Vegas – just business as usual!
The undeniable truth about Las Vegas is that “anything goes!” Many people find this a source of relief as they can relax in this city in whatever way they choose without being judged and their behaviour counting against them in the future. In these stressful times, that has to be a blessing.
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