Las Vegas hardly needs an introduction, as it is one of the most famous cities in the world! As the most populous city of the state of Nevada, Las Vegas draws in people from all corners of the earth, all seeking one thing...Entertainment! A major city for the gaming industry, Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world and has rightly earned its nickname of "Sin City". It is the global hot spot for motels, hotels and casinos, making it the ideal weekend getaway destination for conventions, couples and singletons.

Although Las Vegas is somewhat isolated, as it is located right in the heart of the Mojave Desert, many people opt to drive here over flying in. The closest major cities to drive from include Los Angeles (4.5 hours), Palm Springs (5 hours) and San Diego (5.5 hours). However, if you do choose to fly in, you can pick up your rental car from one of 10 convenient locations and begin your exploration of this entertainment capital.

A common misjudgement people make about Las Vegas is the assumption that all it has to offer is casinos. Although this is the major tourism industry in the region, there is so much more for you to discover!

1. The Las Vegas Strip

The Las Vegas Strip, also known as "The Strip", is part of the Las Vegas Boulevard South. This hub of activity is 6.4 kilometres of All-American road which can be explored either by car or foot. The Strip is home to many of the largest hotel, casino and resort properties in the world, making it the ideal place to base yourself for the weekend.

2. The Casinos

The casinos of Las Vegas are among the most prestigious and talked about in the world. The most famous are located on "The Strip", yet downtown Las Vegas boasts some of the biggest and most prominent in the area as well. A visit to the Golden Nugget, Four Queens and the Las Vegas Club will treat you with an unforgettable entertainment experience! Try your luck on the pokies or the tables, or simply sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere while sipping a specialty cocktail. Who knows you may even win big!

3. The Local Fauna

As the city of entertainment, it is only fit that Las Vegas is also the home of many unique, exotic and entertaining animals. A visit to the Mirage Hotel will allow you to explore the "Secret Garden of Siegfried and Roy", the home of 6 rare animal breeds, and "The Dolphin Habitat" where you will see 8 Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins come out to play. The Flamingo Hotel also offers a nice contrast between African and Antarctic fauna, with flamingos and penguins offering endless entertainment for all!

4. The Shopping

Las Vegas should also be called a 'shopping paradise' as it is the perfect destination for those seeking a bargain or for those designer devotees. Explore the mega malls, unique boutiques and resort shopping promenades, where you are sure to find something to remember your trip to Vegas!

5. The Culture

As you may have gathered, Las Vegas is like no other place in the world and this is further evident in the cultural atmosphere that lingers in the air. A visit to the Venetian Hotel allows you to step into Italy, where you can enjoy spectacular architectures and a heritage museum with prestigious art displays. The Bellagio Hotel is the host to The Fine Art Gallery of Bellagio, where you can discover the many changing exhibitions and gain an appreciation for fine art!

6. The Valley of Fire

Escape the city atmosphere and stretch your driving legs as you head out into the desert in search of Nevada's oldest and largest state park. Travel for an hour and you will come across the Valley of Fire, where you will marvel at the red sandstone formations that make this park so spectacular. On the drive, be sure to take notice of how the desert is dominated by the widely spaced creosote bush, burro bush, brittle bush and of course your traditional desert cactus!

7. Drive to the Grand Canyon

For a true experience of nature, venture even further west and you will eventually come to one of the 'Seven Wonders of the World', The Grand Canyon! The desert drive here is perfect for wildlife photographers and roadside sightseeing and you should definitely stop at the Hoover Dam and the Lake Mead Recreational Area, where you will be greeted with an abundance of fun recreational activities. However, upon reaching the Grand Canyon, a whole other adventure begins which is far beyond the limits of Las Vegas!

Las Vegas is the ultimate holiday destination for those seeking a good time, to hit the jackpot or simply to enjoy a splash of night life! This desert oasis is also the perfect place to base yourself for exploration of the remarkable surrounds that make this area so attractive!

Christine Barton