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It’s no secret that the City of Sin promises a good time, but sorting the sterling from the sleazy can be a daunting task.

Signature Luxury Travel & Style follows the neon-lit road to find the best experiences that Las Vegas has to offer.

Though it earned its questionable reputation for good reason, the allure and flippant fun of this desert city are undeniable. Peel back some of the tackier top layers and sophisticated Vegas will emerge, just as full of frivolity and photo opportunities, but with an added edge of elegance. 10 ways to find the luxe in Las Vegas .

1. Take to the skies with Sundance Helicopters

Those heading to Vegas are on the lookout for extravagance, and nothing says over-the-top like a helicopter. Multi-award-winning Sundance Helicopters takes guests up and over the city, offering unmatched views that not many get the opportunity to experience. Due to an agreement with traditional landowners, Sundance is the only company able to land in the Grand Canyon and thus have been able to craft multiple exclusive experiences. Explore the awe-inspiring canyon from the air, along with panoramic views of the Mojave Desert and Hoover Dam, before settling in for a champagne picnic in the depths of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. There are a plethora of tours on offer at Sundance, including short flights for those that are low on time and the ultra-opulent Royal Tour.

2. Knock back a cocktail at The Chandelier Lounge

The last word in lavish, the swanky Chandelier Lounge boasts both cascading crystals and mixology magic. Each of the three floors in the metropolitan sanctuary has honed a here-to-see-and-be-seen ambience, and this, paired with the two million crystals making up this palatial chandelier, makes it the first stop for the Vegas jet-set looking for a party or pre-dinner drinks.

3. Embark on sensory overload at Rose. Rabbit. Lie.

A twist on the supper clubs of old, Rose. Rabbit. Lie. is so much more than dinner and a show. Blurring the lines between a fine-dining restaurant and funky night club, this new-age dining concept rolls out refined reinventions of American favourites and memorable cocktails. Bearing some resemblance to a cabaret show, guests are treated to Vegas Nocturne, made up of three cantos and featuring innumerate wild acts, from table-top tap dancing to aerial acrobatics. The four-piece band is led by Malik Pointer, a descendant of the famous Pointer Sisters, rounding out the impressive team of orchestrators that make a night at Rose. Rabbit. Lie. so extraordinary.

4. Go for gold at the Encore

As the City of Sin starts to make a name for itself in the world of wellness, it’s unsurprising that the five-star spas inside Vegas’ troupe of hotels are stepping up their game. Delivering the ‘wow’ factor with style and grace, The Spa at Encore Las Vegas is a dreamy escape from the hustle and bustle of The Strip, with plush decor inspired by Buddhist principles and the interiors of Morocco and France. With an emphasis on rejuvenation, the Encore uses premium products and timeless techniques in their treatments; the Deluxe 24-Karat Facial is the ultimate indulgence, using the benefits of gold to achieve radiance in a treatment traditionally reserved for royalty.

5. Satisfy a need for speed with Exotics Racing

It’s the dream of many to get behind the wheel of a million-dollar car, and Exotics Racing is the fairy godmother that makes it happen. The 2.4-kilometre Las Vegas Motor Speedway has been designed with speed in mind, with professional racing drivers creating a track that allows visitors to see the full extent of the supercar’s capabilities and drive like they do in the Grand Prix. Book into driving school or spoil yourself with a VIP experience, taking on hairpins, chicanes and banked turns in a McLaren or a Lamborghini with the option to purchase an HD video of your time on the track.

6. Tantalise the taste buds at Mott 32

Checking off one of the seven deadly sins is on every Vegas bucket list, and at Mott 32 it’s far too easy to give in to gluttony. Purporting to represent a new era of Chinese dining, this divine eatery has made a home in The Venetian, named after the famed convenience store on 32 Mott Street in New York City. The venue has won awards for both their food and their design, with not-so-subtle nods to their host city including a dining table made from a vintage roulette wheel and chandelier artfully constructed of feathers. Complex cocktails are a given and the applewood-smoked Peking duck is the stuff of legend, with a 48-hour preparation time requiring it to be ordered in advance.

7. See the Mother Monster in all her glory

It wouldn’t be Vegas without a show and although Cirque du Soleil has ruled the strip for years, Enigma by Lady Gaga is a sure contender for legendary status. One year into her two-year residency, the popstar-come-fashion-icon’s Vegas debut has received praise from all directions, described as “stellar” by Rolling Stone and Billboard commenting that the creative looks would have made David Bowie proud. The show follows the alien-esque character of Enigma through a series of the singers greatest hits, paired with surprising emotion and spectacles including an aerial descent from Gaga herself. As you’d expect from the famously out-there celebrity, the performance is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

8. Visit the iconic Smith Center for some smooth tunes

As synonymous with Vegas as gambling debts and shotgun weddings, the three-theatre Smith Center has housed every act under the sun in its 10-year lifespan. Though it’s easy to be lured in by the larger acts, Myron’s Cabaret Jazz is an unmissable experience, set in an intimate 240-seat theatre and hosting all the big names in jazz that pass through the city. It’s a completely different side to Las Vegas; the venue is the definition of classic cool and makes for a memorable night out.

9. Get a dose of culture at Carson Kitchen

As quintessentially Vegas as eating out can get, Carson Kitchen has been winning awards since 2014 when it was opened by celebrated restaurateur Cory Harwell and the late chef Kerry Simon. Casual dining at its best, the restaurant reinvents American favourites, resulting in an innovative menu that features creations such as bacon jam, lollipop frogs legs and ‘beerimisu’. Liberations evoke vintage Vegas nostalgia, paired with the sentiment that “no good love story started with someone ordering a salad”.

10. Take up a few tables with a group dining experience

The motto of this infamous city is to go all out, and mirroring that with an outrageous dinner party is not only expected but encouraged. The team at Caesars Experience Vegas assist in finding a dream venue for such a dining experience, pairing superior service with the most spectacular gourmet journeys on the strip. Alternatively, the 14-seat dining room at Best Friend is perfect for a larger gathering, particularly when the menu has been curated and cooked by none other than Chef Roi Choy.

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Bucket List for Your First Trip to Las Vegas

You might be surprised to know that the “Las Vegas” most of us think of is only about 4 miles long — the Strip! But there’s so much to see in such a small area.

I’ve had some epic girlfriends’ getaways there and even rang in the New Year in the City of Lights. Every trip has made me more in love with this crazy, non-stop destination. Ready to have some crazy adventures yourself?

A trip to Las Vegas is one of those quintessential American experiences. From the bright lights of the Strip to the world-class museums, this little Nevada city is everything you’d expect it to be and so much more.

Here’s my bucket list for your first trip to Las Vegas.

blonde in vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas

Of course, your first stop has to be the Welcome to Las Vegas sign; it’s the ultimate selfie op! But you won’t be the only one with this idea. Crowds form here as the day goes on, and you’ll want get there as early as you can.

There’s usually a guy there to help take your photo, which means you can get the whole group in one shot. He does it for free too, so leave that selfie stick at home.

Once you’re ready to start exploring, order a yard of your favorite drink and wander the strip! Yard drinks are everywhere in Vegas, and you have to try to sip your way through at least one.

pool at ARIA in Las Vegas

Where to Stay on the Strip

By far the most exciting area to stay in Las Vegas is the Strip. While there are other nice spots around town, I highly recommend that newbies stay in the heart of the action.

ARIA Resort and Casino: With luxury suites offering an incredible view of the Strip, this casino resort is the ultimate five-star experience. Featuring a 150,000-square-foot casino, sixteen restaurants, and on-site entertainment, you could spend your entire trip checking this place out.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: This chic hotel was made for longer visits and group adventures. It has everything from one- to three-bedroom suites, and each has a kitchenette, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a hip, urban apartment vibe.
Encore at Wynn: Named the best hotel in Las Vegas by Condé Nast Traveler, the Encore at Wynn lives up to its reputations as one of the city’s finest luxe spots.

las vegas at night

Visiting the Casinos in Las Vegas

Whether you are a high roller or you just want to toss a few nickels in the slot, you can’t go to Las Vegas with trying your odds. Wow your friends with a tale of how you won it all—and then lost it —on one magical night in the city.

You won’t usually find me at the card tables, but I love to play my odds at the slot machines. There are a million spots to throw your change, and you’ll want to sit down at least once to partake in the most Vegas of Vegas sports.

bloody mary in vegas

Boozy Brunch in Las Vegas

After your first wild night out in Vegas, start the day with a boozy brunch. While Vegas is often associated with less-than-enticing casino buffets, it actually has some incredible foodie hot spots.

Bellagio Buffet: Hate buffets? You won’t after you’ve tried the Bellagio Buffet. Forget about overcooked, bland dishes, and think international haute cuisine.
Giada at The Cromwell: This chic spot, owned by Giada De Laurentiis, has top-notch Italian food, and it’s one of the hottest brunch spots in town.
La Cave Wine and Food Hideaway at Wynn Las Vegas: This place is famous for its tableside butler-style brunch and classic American dishes.
Eggslut at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: The egg sandwiches here will knock your socks off! It doesn’t serve booze, but it’s open late night for after da club.
EAT: One of the trendiest eateries in downtown Las Vegas, EAT does all your fave comfort foods with a focus on sustainable and organic ingredients.
Bloody Marys at Yardbird: If you love bloody marys, you’ll die and go to heaven at Yardbird. It’s also the best spot for classic Southern grub.

shopping in las vegas

Shopping in Las Vegas

My Vegas motto is to cheap out at the casinos and then splurge at the mall. There are some seriously amazing shops and outlets here that have it all.

Las Vegas North Premium Outlets: Brand crazy? Make a beeline for this outlet! Armani, Bose, Coach, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and so much more are all at rock-bottom prices here.
Caesars Palace Forum Shops: Known as the Shopping Wonder of the World, this place has all of the top international brands and great restaurants. It even has the world’s largest privately-owned art gallery, which has an entire wall of Andy Warhol pieces.
Planet Hollywood Shops: Also known as the Miracle Mile Shops, Planet Hollywood Shops houses 170 stores, fifteen restaurants, and live entertainment venues.

encore beach club las vegas

Hit the Beach (Club) in Las Vegas

While Las Vegas may not be coastal, you’ll still want to bring your bikini! Clubbing here is all about finding the best pool parties.

Encore Beach Club: Swim, dance, and check out some of the world’s best DJs. This indoor/outdoor hot spot is perfect for lounging or partying the night away.
Tao Beach: These 60,000 square feet are basically a mini Asian town; Tao Beach has its own much-loved restaurant, lounge, club, and beach.
Wet Republic: This is another place for a poppin’ pool party. Every show is different here, and it’s always worth coming back.
Marquee Dayclub: This trendy spot, with a casino club, high-tech effects, and multiple dance floors, is a must-see.
DAYLIGHT Beach Club: Who says clubbing is for nighttime? The non-stop DAYLIGHT has an all-day pool party and all-night dance floor.

Take a Trip to Downtown Las Vegas

Now, more than ever, Las Vegas is way more than just the Strip. The hippest new spot to check out is downtown.

Neon Museum: This massive six-acre space is a beautiful and bizarre graveyard for countless vintage Vegas signs. Tons of photo ops here!
Fremont Street: For the ultimate Vegas experience, get to this five-block entertainment district. Take the famous SlotZilla Zip Line from the world’s largest slot machine to the world’s largest video screen for an epic (and free!) light show.
Mob Museum: This is not your average museum. You can get a look into the dark side of Las Vegas history at this fascinating place.
The Las Vegas Art District (Also Known as 18b): This is the local art scene, and it’s the place to come to see a whole different side of Vegas.

flying over las vegas at night

See Las Vegas from the Sky

My breathtaking trip with Sundance Helicopters is easily one of my best memories from Vegas! I flew to the Grand Canyon, which was indescribably beautiful.

Sundance Helicopters also does shorter trips over the Vegas Strip, which I highly recommend.

couple in vegas

Life is Beautiful Festival in Las Vegas

You have to get to this cool festival of music, culinary, art, and learning. It happens in late September, and it is one of America’s greatest.

See a Show in Las Vegas

Of course! You can’t go to Vegas without hitting at least one show. There’s such an incredibly diverse array of options here with so many shows that you won’t find anywhere else.

Bellagio Fountains: The sound and light show at the Bellagio is essential. It happens every fifteen or thirty minutes, depending on the day and time of year, so it’s easy to find time for it.
Absinthe at Caesars Palace: This is my all-time favorite! Absinthe is such a fun and inventive You definitely don’t want to miss this one.
The Beatles LOVE: Whether you love or meh The Beatles, this Cirque du Soleil is stunning.

drinks at high roller

Grab a Craft Cocktail

While there are some amazing clubs and bars in Vegas, you still have to watch out for not-so-great cocktails. Hang on to this list of places to get consistently good ones.

Happy Half Hour at the High Roller: See the city from above at Las Vegas’s newest attraction: the 550-foot-tall Ferris wheel with an open bar.
Chandelier Bar in The Cosmopolitan: A playground, art exhibit, and cocktail haven, this is one good-looking bar.
The Dorsey: Set inside the Venetian, this place defines swanky and has tasty drinks.
Velveteen Rabbit: The drinks here are among the best I’ve ever had, and you have to love a Velveteen Rabbit theme!

marquee-nightclub

Dance the Night Away in Las Vegas

Vegas has some of the world’s best nightlife, and you have to bring your dancing shoes.

Marquee: I always love the atmosphere here, and the party never stops!
XS: This Wynn Encore club has first-class DJs and an expansive indoor/outdoor dance floor.
Encore Beach Club: As if you need another excuse to hit up this club; it has nighttime pool parties now!