Additional Coverage:
- I visited Las Vegas for the first time on a girls’ trip. Looking back, I could’ve easily avoided these 5 mistakes. (businessinsider.com)
Vegas, Baby! Lessons Learned in Sin City
Girl trips are a must, and for my friend group, our annual getaway is practically sacred. A few years back, we hit Las Vegas – a whirlwind of dazzling nightclubs, casinos, and pool parties straight out of a Hollywood movie.
While it was an absolute blast, looking back, there are a few things I’d do differently. Consider this your friendly Vegas survival guide, learned the hard way.
First up: water. Staying hydrated in the desert is key, but be warned – ordering “water” can cost you.
At one club, we were served a fancy ice bucket with four tiny Fiji bottles. The price?
A staggering $80! Lesson learned: specify “tap water” – your wallet will thank you.
Next, beware of “free” bottle service. Promoters love to lure you in with this, but it’s often a trap.
Between cover charges, shots, and (yes) that pricey water, our “free” pool party ended with a $500 tab. Don’t get caught up in the moment – stick to the free bottle and resist those tempting, brightly-colored shooters.
Slot machines. They’re everywhere, calling your name with their flashing lights and promising jingles.
I even saw them at the airport! While I resisted there, the casinos were another story.
I quickly learned that those one-armed bandits can drain your funds faster than you can say “jackpot.” Set a budget before you go and stick to it.
Dining on the Strip is an experience, with celebrity chef restaurants and Instagram-worthy decor. While I enjoyed the trendy vibes at STK and Hakkasan, the prices were eye-watering.
Next time, I’ll explore off-Strip options for some authentic, affordable meals. Ask a local – they know the best spots.
Finally, a word of caution about desert adventures. We went on an ATV ride, which was amazing…until we got lost.
Between selfies and friendly races, we strayed from the group. A flipped ATV and a frantic search later, we realized that even in the midst of fun, safety is paramount.
Stay aware of your surroundings, and keep your wits about you.
Vegas is an incredible experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. Learn from my mistakes, and you’ll have a fantastic trip without breaking the bank (or getting lost in the desert).