Las Vegas for first timers 

“Something for everyone” is a phrase that gets thrown around like confetti, but it is absolutely true in the case of Las Vegas. Here, we offer some insider tips on getting the most from your first visit – especially if it is one that you’ve been delaying for a few decades. 

Consider booking directly

Sometimes you can get a flight plus hotel deal that is impossible to beat. But that’s less common with Vegas than other tourist destinations. Carry out your usual online research, but when you’ve got a shortlist, try your chosen hotel’s own website. You might just get a pleasant surprise, as they are keen as mustard to get you in through the doors, especially if you choose a casino hotel like the Stratosphere or MGM Grand. Often that means offering incredibly reasonable room rates. 

Don’t fear the casinos

Even if you’ve never been in a casino in your life, you need to at least spend a little time in the Golden Nugget, Paris or Bellagio. Get involved and don’t just lurk around the slot machines – after all, everyone knows how to play roulette or blackjack and you can always have a few practice games at an online casino to work on your strategy! The dealers are accustomed to working with novices and it’s in their interest to make sure you have a good time, as they rely heavily on tips to supplement their salaries. 

Use the monorail

Distances in Las Vegas are greater than they seem. While walking the strip once is an interesting experience, is will take you an entire afternoon, and is not something you want to do every day in the Nevada heat. There are taxis and Ubers aplenty, but the Las Vegas monorail provides the fastest and cheapest way to get from one famous location to the next. It also offers an intriguing birds eye view of the city. 

Check out the buffets

Las Vegas could reasonably be called the buffet capital of America. Every major hotel and casino complex has at least one, and often a range of buffet options, and this is by far the best way to experience a range of cuisines at a reasonable price. One word to the wise, though – try to avoid the peak time, which is between 6PM and 8PM. Go in a little earlier or later to avoid the queues and enjoy your meal in peace. 

Be ready for anything

The beauty of Las Vegas is the sheer variety of things to do and see. So perhaps the most important piece of advice is to keep an open mind and be ready to try something new. You literally don’t know what’s around the next corner, so have fun and good luck!