South West Road Trip Stop #1 – Viva Las Vegas!

I was never into gambling, but Las Vegas with its casinos and vibrant nightlife was always on my American bucket list.

Bellagio Fountains

Las Vegas

We decided to visit Vegas during the week when usually is a bit calmer than on the weekend. Bellagio Hotel’s service was excellent, the receptionist offered us a romantic room with the view of the famous fountains.

Breakfast in a Hotel Room

Dining in Vegas

The Bellagio has a lot of dining options, including one of the best buffets in the city, featuring fresh and delicious king crab legs—well worth a short wait in a line. However, the real culinary feast we had at Lago by Julian Serrano which serves Italian cuisine in a romantic fountains setting.

The Strip’s Neon Glow

Vegas on a Budget 

Being in Vegas is like living in a mall in which everything is provided for you, as long you have money to pay for it. Even though Vegas has it all, most of the things in the Center are overpriced. If you are on a budget, I suggest doing some grocery shopping before arriving at the main strip. We stopped at a major supermarket by the airport and bought a cooler, water, ice, snacks, etc. Las Vegas hot, desert climate is not a joke, and drinks by the pool are not enough to keep you hydrated. Remember to drink enough water. Las Vegas running water is very poor quality, so if you don’t want to pay for overpriced bottled water at the hotel, bring your own water.

Wondering Around Bellagio Hotel 

Things to Do in Vegas

Las Vegas offers may shows, concerts, and outdoor experiences, but the biggest part of the Vegas experience may be wandering around its uniquely designed hotels. A night walk by the Fountains of Bellagio was my favorite part of it all. One of the best source information for things to do in Vegas is the official Las Vegas website.

Hoover Dam, Arizona

Las Vegas Surrounding Areas

Las Vegas has a lot to offer, but nothing can top the landscape outside of the city. Some of the most photographed sites are located less than an hour away from the Strip, such as the Hoover Dam, standing at more than 725 feet above the Colorado River, Red Rock Canyon, and the Valley of Fire.