For Canadians, Las Vegas represents a major contrast compared to their own country. If you are looking for excitement and entertainment in a very unique way, this is the place to go to.
However, preparing for the journey to Las Vegas can make all the difference between the trip of a lifetime and a simple getaway. From choosing the perfect accommodation to managing your finances and mastering the casino entertainment.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to prepare for your Las Vegas adventure from Canada.
Flights and routes
When you plan your visit to Las Vegas, there are certain things that you should consider. Start by comparing flight options, to see from where you can start your trip and what’s more convenient for you.
If you wish to reach your destination faster, you have the option of choosing direct flights. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver let you fly directly to the McCarran Airport in Nevada. For those looking for cheaper options, you can opt for connecting and longer flights.
It’s worth comparing the prices and travel times across different airlines. Consider the time of the year, as peak seasons can see a spike in cost. You can also compare flights on Skyscanner.ca to help track price trends and score deals.
Choosing the right accommodation
Securing a place that is good for your standards is essential. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or a budget-friendly trip, Las Vegas is home to many hotels and different kinds of accommodations.
If you’re dreaming of an experience which includes spa visits and poolside spots, there are iconic resorts like the Bellagio or The Venetian, where luxury is always on the agenda. For travellers keen on indulging in gaming, shows and fine dining with less emphasis on accommodation, middle-range hotels offer comfort without extravagance.
There are also options which give you the possibility to not spend a high amount of money. These can still provide easy access to all the city’s action, often just a block or two away from The Strip – the most popular boulevard in the city.
Tips for affordable options
To find the best deals on accommodation, timing is everything. Booking well in advance can secure lower rates, as can travelling mid-week rather than on weekends. Keep an eye out for package deals that include show tickets or free meals. Another tip is to join hotel loyalty programs (like The Venetian’s Grazie scheme), which can offer a variety of discounts and perks.
When booking, read reviews and check maps to ensure the location suits your itinerary. Remember, a hotel right on The Strip may be more expensive, but it also puts you in the heart of Vegas life.
Preparing for the casino floors
A trip to Las Vegas is incomplete without the thrilling experience of the casino floors. These locations are not just about luck and money. They are housed in some of the most beautiful and extravagant buildings and surroundings that makeup the whole Vegas culture.
When visiting The Strip, expect to find a large variety of casinos. You’ll have the option to choose between classic games – such as blackjack, poker, slot machines and roulette – and newer games that will attract your attention.
To fully enjoy the gaming experience, a bit of preparation of casino etiquette is essential to understand the unwritten rules and formal regulations. For example, dress codes can vary from one casino to another, with some requiring more formal attire and others adopting a more relaxed approach. Always do a bit of research on what to expect before heading out.
Practice before you go
Before heading to the casino floors in Las Vegas, it’s recommended that you put a bit of practice in beforehand. The experience is always a lot better if you know how to play the games and how to win from them.
Canadians have a big advantage here as they can easily play casino games online while in their home country. For example, you can find many real money casinos in Canada at Casino-Professor.com where you can sign up to play hundreds of slots and games using either your computer or mobile device.
Many of these games are exactly the same as what you’ll find in Vegas – such as blackjack, roulette, poker and more. This gives you the perfect chance to build your skills and knowledge so you know exactly how to play once you hit The Strip.
Making the most of your experience
Beyond the casinos, you can expect to find thrilling attractions of all kinds when visiting this amazing city.
For example, there’s an abundance of tasteful restaurants listed on Eater.com offering food from all over the world that you can sample. For those looking for high-class restaurants, Vegas is home to a large list of fine dining places, led by world-renowned chefs. From Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen to Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand, these are places where the meal becomes a show of its own.
The city is also rich in unique attractions and sightseeing opportunities. Take a ride on the High Roller – one of the world’s tallest observation wheels – for a bird’s-eye view of The Strip. Let yourself be amazed by the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens which is known for its variety of displays that change throughout the year. There’s also the famous fountain show offered by the same hotel.
No matter what you choose, Las Vegas is a city like no other and will have Canadians looking forward to their next visit before they’ve even left.