02.12.2003

Las Vegas

Being the first time in Las Vegas is really impressing; you can't describe the dimensions of the hotels/casinos at the Strip.The casinos and included shopping malls are really huge. You only get a picture of the size when you're walking through them and try to get out :) Apart from that, well, for me Vegas has not much to offer. If you're not into gambling there are far better places to go to. However, here are some tips if you ever go to Vegas: The Star Trek Experience in the Hilton is in my view not worth a visit. It's a StarTours like ride with a nice story put around, but the ride itself is really poor, never seen such bad graphics :( - so, this is only interesting if you're a real hardcore teckie. Check out the stratosphere tower when you have a good view. The look over Vegas to all the valleys around is amazing. We tried the rollercoaster on top, which is pretty lame - you have a very good view, but it's very slow and borring. The other two attractions are not thrilling either,  so I would avoid them. BUT, try the rollercoaster around the New York New York hotel. That one is really pretty cool, especially when it's dark outside and you get a nice view over the Strip. It's really worth the money - and it is a very refreshing ride, after trying that one out we didn't had problems with the jet lag anymore! The mall at the Cesars is very interesting to see, the fontains of the Belagio are nice as well and if you've never been into a Rainforrest Cafe before, visit the one located in the MGM. There are some more nice places in Las Vegas but again, besides the casinos there is not much more. But if you ever happen to get to Vegas and have time, try to drive into any direction and you will find interesting places like the Red Rock Canyon, Death Valley, the Hoverdam or - if you drive long enough - the Grand Canyon. More on that later. 10:51:49 AM