AT SOME point in time, you will likely find yourself in America’s most unbelievably fun city. Like most Vegas visitors, you will likely fall into one of two camps: (1) the reluctant visitor embarrassed by the excess and here only for a conference, to humor a loved one or to attend a wedding (of which you don’t approve); or (2) you’re so in love with the city’s delightful “Why not?” sense of humor, you’d move here. (We did that once – highly recommended.)
Attention, all you people in Category 1: Get an attitude adjustment. That, or miss out on the glorious weirdness of a city that thinks nothing of reinterpreting the world’s icons to suit its own purposes. No, Las Vegas is not trying to duplicate Venice, New York or Egypt. It simply steals the icons, shines ’em up, and makes them its own. And Vegas doesn’t need to explain away the fact that, while it loves its history, it will also implode once it stops making money. Many of its best restaurants can, counterintuitively, be found in otherwise charmless strip malls. In other words, don’t rationalize, apologize or be scandalized – just accept and enjoy. Vegas welcomes all comers – rich and poor. Leave your attitude and hangups at home.
Happily, in the past several years, the city has become far more livable and fun for locals, extending its pleasures far beyond the Strip. Still, for newcomers, we recommend staying on and exploring the Strip first, then branching out. One of the best things about planning a trip to Vegas right now? As during other times of economic hardship, it’s one of the first places you’ll see adjusting its prices to match reality. One of the hardest areas hit by real-estate speculation and overly optimistic building booms, the city is rolling out the deals, even in brand-new resorts and newly renovated rooms. Combine these deals with the strategies we’ll outline below, and you’ll find America’s most accessible city is easier than ever to love.
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