Its hard to really describe Las Vegas. It is such an assault on the senses and not necessarily positive or negative. On the one hand, Vegas sits in a truly beautiful desert valley, where the colours change throughout the day and the natural environment is harsh but inspiring. And then on the other, at night it is a kaleidoscope of neon lights, sounds and smells that can assault, thrill and exhaust you. I found Vegas interesting. I guess the sociologist/anthropologist in me truly took the observational rather than participatory role during my visit.The area was named Las Vegas, which in Spanish means "the meadows", because of the beautiful valley which was, in this desert environment, unique for its abundant wild grasses and spring waters. It provided a safe haven for the nomadic Paleo-Indians travelling from the south Americas to the north. But for the very same reason, it proved a valuable stopping point for snaking iron tracks of the Union Pacific as it made its way across the nation.
The city was founded in 1905 but it wasn't until about 1931 that Vegas boomed. It was at that time that Nevada legalised casino gambling and changed divorce laws. At the same time, the construction of Hoover Dam began and the rest, as they say, is history.
While the greater metropolitan area of Vegas is home to over two million people, and is one of the leading cities in the USA for conventions and business conferences, it is really known internationally for its tourism and as such, it is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. In fact, I am told that there are more hotel rooms in Vegas than in the whole of Europe. And one hotel alone, the Venetian, has over 7,000 rooms.
So all those facts aside....what did I think? Well, I took the opportunity to do a helicopter flight over Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Brilliant and worth every cent. Absolutely magnificent and a sight everyone should experience. That hole is the ground is beyond belief and truly makes you appreciate nature's perfection. I also visited a couple of places of historic significance, as is my want to do. But did I gamble and go into the casinos....no. Having some experience in the casino and gambling industry, I can honestly say it is not an industry I enjoy in any way. There is a kind grunge and sadness that I see which I find difficult to be around. Sure I took in some shows, which were brilliant and spectacular, and I also enjoyed some good food and live music. But overall, not my preferred holiday destination.Having said that, there is great shopping, fabulous live entertainment, outstanding restaurants and amazing sights to be seen. It is worth a visit....but if you stay too long, the shine might wear off!
