Las Vegas: the city of dreams. Where else in the world can you find violent volcanic eruptions, pirate ships battles, musical fountains, giant medieval castles, the Eiffel Tower, and the Statue of Liberty, all located within mere kilometers of each other? The city of Las Vegas never ceases to amaze. The moment you step off the plane at McCarran International Airport, you are immediately greeted by the wondrous sounds of slot machines of every conceivable make and model. The sounds tingles your senses, and your heart rate goes up in anticipation of the FUN you just KNOW you are going to have. Welcome to Vegas, aka Sin City.

If it's your first time to Las Vegas, you will definitely be overwhelmed by the sheer size and number of hotels concentrated along the Vegas strip. The first thing that you will notice is that the majority of hotels are modeled after a certain theme. The Luxor is constructed to mimic an Egyptian pyramid, and features an Egyptian themed interior. The New York New York Hotel is modeled after the city of the same name, and The Mirage's man made rainforest offers its visitors a lush oasis away from the sweltering heat of the Nevada dessert. Depending on the type of Vegas experience you desire, there are a wide range of hotels to suit your needs.

Luxury: "For those seeking the Ultimate Vegas Experience."
• The Bellagio
• The Venetian
• The Wynn

Mid Range: "For the casual traveler."
• Planet Hollywood
• Treasure Island
• MGM Grand

Budget: "For those who think that sleeping is over rated in Vegas"
• Ballys
• Harrahs
• Circus Circus

The next thing you will probably notice is that Vegas is a true gambling haven, littered with huge themed casinos located in every hotel along the Vegas Strip. If you want to try your luck in Vegas, do take advantage of the many promotions being offered, or sign up for a player's card in any of the casinos. Typically a $25 - $30dollar complementary gaming credit will be given to new members. While gambling, points can be accumulated to be exchanged for rewards such as accommodation and dining credits. The best part of gambling in a major Vegas casino is that alcoholic drinks are free of charge. However, if you are a cheapass, just change some chips at the roulette table and "pretend" to gamble while sipping on your free glass of vodka orange. If you would like to make sure that you continue to be served free alcohol, do not incur the wrath of the waitress. This can be achieved by remembering the casino's social etiquettes by leaving the waitress a tip: $1 will do the trick.

While gambling is a big part of the Vegas experience, many other activities for the non gamblers like me to enjoy. *ahem*: Anyways, first things first. To prepare for the sleepless nights that you would definitely be having in Vegas, you need to nourish yourself, and Vegas certainly does not have shortages on food options. If the amazing buffet spread located in every hotel on the Vegas strip isn't what you fancy, then French Chef Joel Robuchon's 3 Star Michelin restaurants will definitely excite your tastebuds. From everyday street food fare, to celebrity chef restaurants, vegetarians to meat lovers, in Vegas, even the harshest food critic will be satisfied.

If one is traveling to Vegas, these are some of the eateries that must not be missed!

Extravagant: $$$
• Joel Robuchon, "The Mansion at MGM" (MGM Grand) Chef Joel Robuchon, 3 Michelin Star
• Alex, "Wynn Las Vegas" Chef Alessandro Stratta, 2 Michelin Star
• Le Cirque, "The Bellagio" Chef David Werly, 1 Michelin Star

Casual Dining: $$
• House of Blues "Mandalay Bay" (Soul Food)
• Mon Ami Gabi "Paris"
• Wolf Gang Puck Bar "MGM Grand"

On The Go: $
• Earl of Sandwich, "Planet Hollywood"
• Carnegie Delicatessen, "The Mirage"
- Must Try, Hot Pastrami
• Burger Bar "Mandalay Bay"

Buffets: $$
• The Buffet, "The Bellagio"
• Village Seafood Buffet, "The Rio"
• Le Village Buffet "Paris"

Tip: Tix4tonight outlet retail coupons that offer substantial discounts at various food and beverage outlets. To learn more about tix4tonite, and an overview of other activities in and around Las Vegas, keep an eye out for part 2 of Destination: Las Vegas

Disclaimer: The facts and recommendations made in this article solely reflect on the author's own experiences and point of view. Feel free to comment or disagree.

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