Las Vegas is known across the globe as a paradise for gamblers, so much so that all its other attractions (not mean by any standards) find themselves pushed into the background. The most populous city in Nevada, Las Vegas was founded in the first decade of the last century, and is a major vacation, shopping, and gambling center. The name Las Vegas is often applied to the unincorporated areas of Clark County, especially the resort areas on and near the Las Vegas Strip. It is also known as "Sin City" because of the huge popularity of legal gambling, availability of alcoholic drinks any time, different forms of adult entertainment, and legalized prostitution in nearby counties. Mind you, Nevada does not allow prostitution in counties having populations of over 400,000, and it is illegal in Las Vegas and Clark County. No wonder that the local government and promoters of tourism wanted the city to be nicknamed "The Entertainment Capital of the World." At a time when it appeared that Las Vegas was losing its importance, the construction of the Hoover Dam gave a boost to the city, and it has never looked back. The spurt in tourism and the legalization of gambling encouraged the setting up of numerous casino-hotels for which Las Vegas is now famous throughout the world. The economy of Las Vegas is mainly based on tourism, including gambling. The dazzling Strip, from Mandalay Bay up to the Stratosphere, is the heart of Las Vegas, and you will find yourself in the thick of action at the Flamingo Road intersection. Here's where you will discover some hot and happening destinations like Paris, Bellagio, Caesars' Palace, and the Flamingo. From here you can walk to the Mirage, Treasure Island, and the Venetian. If you venture north of Wynn you will find the New Frontier, Stardust, Westward Ho, Circus Circus, and the Stratosphere. A journey southwards will take you to Mandalay Bay, Luxor, Excalibur, New York-New York, and MGM Grand, where the activities are much more hectic. You won't be disappointed if you somehow stay off the Strip as well. It has its own treasures in the shape of Hard Rock, the Palms, and Rio. To keep you away from the Strip they offer you great restaurants and nightlife, player-friendly rules and good payouts in the casinos. But, all said and done, the action is where the Strip is. The choice is yours! |
