Heading to the entertainment capital of the world? With world-class shows, museums, restaurants and casinos alongside adventure activities in the countryside, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time. Here’s how to prepare for a trip to Vegas to make the most of your stay, whether you’re going solo or as part of a group.
Investigate visas
Well ahead of your trip, investigate visas as these can take a substantial amount of time to sort.
UK citizens are eligible to travel to the United States visa-free under the ‘Visa Waiver Program’ if they’re travelling for pleasure for less than 90 days and have evidence of a return flight booking.
Don’t forget to check your passport and make sure that it’s valid for the proposed duration of your stay. You don’t need at least six months as with other countries, but it’s best to leave a buffer in case you extend your stay.
Plan your itinerary
Even if you stayed for a month, you’d barely scratch the surface of things to do in Las Vegas.
Consider how long you’re staying for, your interests, and the wants and desires of the rest of the wider group if you’re travelling with others. This will give you a shortlist of possible activities to work with that you can then prioritise, taking into account prices and how much time you have.
A highlight for many is a night visit to The Strip to see a resident recording artist or one of the long-running shows like Cirque du Soleil that’s been going strong for three decades. Those who like to be active can escape the city to hike the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
Prepare for the casino
Las Vegas is well-known as a global gambling haunt, and there are countless games of skill and chance to try your hand at.
Prepare for this experience by playing practice games in online casinos ahead of your holiday. This will teach you the rules of each game away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds, and help you pick up any tips and tricks that might improve your chances.
Decide what to pack
The climate in Las Vegas is very varied, with chilly winters and summer temperatures over 30°C. Research the weather before you go and pack accordingly, remembering that the building temperatures are well-regulated with heating and air-conditioning systems.
As one of the driest cities in the USA, it’s unlikely that you’ll need an umbrella or waterproof, but suncream and a sunhat are useful at any time of year to protect against harmful UV rays.
Other essentials include comfortable walking shoes, your favourite fancy outfit for elevated experiences, and a swimsuit if you’re planning on plunging into a pool during your stay.