I find that every time I mention Vegas people feel one of two things:

1. Hatred and disgust for a fake, materialist, drunken, glutinous, gambling city.
2. Excitement and wonder, fun, parties and an exhilarating getaway.

Two very different opinions.

I guess if any city deserves that kind of a reputation, it’s Vegas. So where do I fall under these options? Surprisingly, the second.

I really like Vegas.

I find the neon lights bold, colourful and lively. They welcome and shout at you: look at me! They brighten up the streets, and make night not feel so dark, cold and depressing.

I am inspired by the sometimes nearly flawless replicas of iconic landmarks and architectural styles from around the world; all a few blocks from each other. They make me want to visit the original locations, and nostalgic if I have already been.

I enjoy dressing up for night clubbing and playing the “party goer”.  I line up for sweaty clubs and listen to world class DJ’s, blasting music too loud to even yell over; hence you are forced to literally just dance.

I love the free street shows, performances and the many variations of Cirque du Soleil. I feel proud that such talents performers have a place to work on their craft full time and earn a living doing what they love.

I indulge on the various cocktails offered by the casinos; although very weak in alcoholic content, they are generally free. I am a sucker for free things.

When it comes down to its’ core, Vegas is a fantasy, an escape. It’s a place to play pretend and act like we’re all wealthy socialites; taking limos, eating at five star buffets, lounging by the pool, and shopping at designer boutiques.

Vegas is a place that allows you to live a few days and nights of the flashy, glamorous life, before we go back to budgets, emails and sweatpants.

Contiki USA: Video #7:  Las Vegas, Nevada

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SOKRZKB6b0&feature=share&list=PLBmF7uPtI-4E0H7l3xjjHHw2C2OYhxx91

Special thanks to Contiki  for sending me on this wonderful trip.