Las Vegas can be a great vacation destination. It is full of sun, glamor, good food, entertaining shows, diverse accommodations, countless retailers, enticing gaming options and cheap drinks--what more could a visitor want? Unfortunately, this feeling of wanting more tends to encroach upon an otherwise peaceful and successful vacation, as many people get wooed by excess. Before they know it, too much imbibing--whether that be on food, drinks, sun or spending--has left them not just in poor health, but in the poor house as well.
There is a reason Las Vegas is known as Sin City, and a big part of that reason is the ever-flowing alcohol. You can grab a drink just about anywhere in Vegas. From the giant La Salsa inside the Miracle Mile Shops to the blackjack table and even your hotel's jacuzzi, there is no limit to the places that eagerly serve alcohol. However, travelers should realize that drinks are cheap for a reason, they tend to loosen up inhibitions, resulting in more spending on the casino floor, restaurants, shops and shows. It can also lead to other bad decisions, from quarrels with other patrons to emotional outbursts and sexual dalliances that would otherwise have never happened. The raging hangover that can result can also cost you a day's worth of vacation. Though many people like to cut loose and imbibe in Vegas, you should do so in moderation. Never drink on an empty stomach, have only one glass of wine with dinner, limit your pre- and post-dinner cocktails and be very weary of the infamous yard drinks. Their prices are cheap, but their consequences can be expensive.
Even when alcohol isn't present it is still very easy to overspend in Las Vegas. The lights, gimmicks and themes that pack the Strip are there to entice--and they work surprisingly well on most guests. While everyone deserves a treat or two on vacation, you should make sure that this treat doesn't turn into a 24-hour excuse for excess. Again, moderation is the key. If you really want to treat yourself to a nice dinner, grab a pre-dinner drink at a happy hour instead of ordering a $50 bottle of wine. If you want to see a pricey Cirque du Soleil show, take pictures in the theater's lobby in front of the gigantic sign and make that your souvenier. If you are an art lover, visit the numerous free galleries throughout the hotels and malls, instead of paying the admission fee at most guest exhibits. Shoppers should also save any big ticket purchases, such as a Louis Vuitton bag, Tiffany's golden bracelet or Lamborghini for later. It is great to window shop in Vegas, but if you feel that you are prone to impulsive buys you should browse here and buy when you are back home and back into your day-to-day mindset.
Las Vegas is in the middle of the desert where temperatures can reach up to 115 degrees F in the summer. When you add the amount of walking visitors typically do on the two and a half mile Strip, it is very easy to become dehydrated or suffer from a heat-related illness. Guests who know they will be outside a lot should wear light, loose-fitting clothing and carry plenty of water. Fortunately, the Strip is lined with air conditioned casinos, making it easy for walkers to take a break and cool down. Those planning to enjoy their hotels' pool facilities also need to watch their sun intake. The sun is intense, making it easy to burn, and those who lounge poolside with a drink in hand can still experience the same side effects as those walking along Las Vegas Boulevard during a particularly hot day.
