Sunday, September 14, 2014

Factoring in Fun

Every day, we have responsibilities. Pay bills, go to work, pick up the dry cleaning, take the kids to practice, feed the dogs, put gas in the car. It's a list of "have to's" even if some of them we do because we love our friends and family.

When I'm in Vegas, I like fun and games. Vegas is the only place where I can forget about everything else and just have fun. When I was a kid, fun came easy through playtime. Matchbox cars, Legos, GI Joes all piqued my interest and my imagination. As I got older, I continued having fun, sometimes with "bigger kid" toys, like car model kits and sports. Now, as a responsible (well sort of) adult, I still like fun and games, but it can be harder to remember to have fun.

There is so much that I enjoy about spending time in Las Vegas. I like to sit at a blackjack table and enjoy a few cocktails. I like to roll the dice at craps and try to hit some points. If I start losing, I go hang out at the sports book and watch a game or a horse race. When I'm done with that, I'll just walk the Strip and take some pictures for the book and the website. I'll hang out at the pool or a bar and have a few drinks. I'll go to the art gallery at Bellagio or buy some souvenirs.

Whatever I do, it's my way of having fun. Even being stuck in traffic on the Strip is better than being stuck in traffic when I'm on my way to work. It's an opportunity to take pictures like this:



I don't plan everything when I go to Vegas. Heck, sometimes I don't plan much at all. I'll chat ahead of time with the love of my life, Jennifer, and my best friend Steve, who are always going with me to Vegas. Sometimes we'll plan a show or a dinner or something, but usually we just show up. And have fun. And that's the way we like it. Good, spontaneous fun. It recharges the batteries and gives you the energy you need to deal with life when you get back to the real world. The bills, the job, the car and so on will always be there. So don't forget to factor in fun.

Viva,
Mike

3 comments:

LilKittie said...

Hey, just a quick question. I live in NY and I'm planning to go to Vegas in November, anything I should know? Should I drive in or should I get a flight? Where do you usually stay? I've been looking at hotels on Hotel deals in Las Vegas but I'd love to hear some first hand experience. Also, good places to get a dinner? Something not too expensive, but still not fast food? Thanks!

ByronLadon said...

If you don't mind me asking...what is your age range? That is a huge factor to what Las Vegas hotel you would like to stay at. The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas is by far my favorite Would you be interested in seeing a Las Vegas shows with dinner?

SimplifyingLasVegas said...

There are a TON of things to consider. I am assuming you are flying from NY to Vegas os somewhere near. My suggestion is to rent a car - it will save you time and money in the long run.
For hotels, it really just depends on where you can get a great deal. Try to book sooner rather than later, and look for a place on the Strip if this is your first trip.
And yes, there are a lot of great places to eat without breaking the bank. I would suggest taking a look at some of the places in the hotel (or near the hotel) where you are staying to save time.
I know this is vague, but there is way too much to cover in a comment. I hope you consider taking a look at my travel guide, Simplifying Las Vegas, to help with planning for and enjoying your vacation. Thanks and have fun!!