Las Vegas

A lot has happened since I last posted a blog.  We celebrated Mike and Leonards; 50th birthday Vegas Style.

We traveled to Las Vegas via Allegiant airlines. We purchased a "package" trip with included our stay at the Excalibur. When purchasing an airline ticket, you now need to either pay for a "checked" bag or a "carry-on". It is cheaper to pay for it online versus at the airport. It can save you around $20 or more. When looking for the size requirements, rules and regulations, we chose to pay for a carry -on. We also took a personal bag for each of us, which was a backpack and large "purse".The carry-on was an additional $30. I noted that a lot of people brought their "carry-on" which was a full size suitcase on wheels. Then you have multiple fees for who knows what. When on board the aircraft you will need to pay for everything including water. You are able to bring a bottle of water and snacks of your choice, which I would recommend.The water would need to be purchased after you have gone through security.
The resort, Excalibur also has a fee of $15 per day. I don't know exactly what it pays for. We were also able to get a $20 food or drink voucher when we booked the reservation. But you are limited to what places within the Excalibur you are able to use it at..
If you are looking to spend alot of time outdoors be aware that it is difficult as there is a lot of sidewalks closed to due construction. And the fact that the resorts, hotels and such are practically built on top of each other.
Don't expect to receive complimentary drinks when gambling. Some casinos do better than others. We enjoyed free drinks at New York, New York. But I sat at the black jack table for about 2 hours. The waitressess are very busy and have a distance to travel to get the drinks. Please be respectful of this and tip them for your Free drink.
An average beer is $4-$5, mix drinks are $15-up, food entrees are $15-up. There are some great little places along the strip to find breakfast and coffee. We ate supper at Hofbrauhaus. The food was great, the atmosphere was great, great service and such. On Saturday we went to Margaritaville  for lunch which had great food. Walked to an outdoor bar with live music. Saturday night we went to  Fremont street and tried out the famous "hogs and heifers" bar. Be prepared to be yelled at thru a megaphone, cursed at and make sure you tip the waitress. We enjoyed the light show on Fremont street, the entertainment, music, arts and much more. Sunday we ate at the famous "Dicks Resort". Again, they yell at you, scream at you, put funny hats on you that are usually downgrading. The wings are huge, drinks are expensive and the environment is unusual.
Las Vegas is a very busy place. If you can get away from the main stream of things, you may enjoy some different culture. Take in a show or two, enjoy outdoor bars and restaurants.
In closing, I would say go prepare to spend money, walk a lot, see a variety of things. It is true that Vegas doesn't sleep, but that doesn't mean you can't.

Kathy