Hit the slots!

Monday 14th July

After a healthy breakfast (not) we headed out to the south end of the strip to find the famous 'welcome to Las Vegas' sign that is the feature image of many postcards.

It was a short walk from us which only seemed longer because of the heat, it was around 100degrees again today

The sign was full of tourists from all countries all wanting their photo taken by the sign, there was a woman there taking photos for people who wanted it but she wanted money for the privilege so I just took one of the sign itself and one of Jacob that he requested.

From there we got out of the heat, risked our lives crossing the road and headed into Mandalay Bay casino to hit the tables.
Had a go on the roulette tables but being las Vegas and being on the strip the stakes were high. $15 minimum bet on the roulette tables. This may not be much for seasoned gamers however I decided to head to the slot machines and computerised roulette tables to try my luck after a little dabble here. There are a plethora of machines to choose from with infinite themes but all based on the same principle.

With all the fun I was having and money I was losing (not too much)  we missed lunch but did have a nice meal In Dennys diner before hitting the strip in the evening when the sun went down. I was determined to get a good view of the strip at night from some sort of elevated level. I did consider heading to the top of stratosphere,  which is located at the north end of the strip. This has the highest observation platform in Las Vegas. However as it was quite a distance I decided to head to the eifel tower experience which meant that for just over $15 you could get an elevator up to the observation platform on the eifel tower in the grounds of the 'Paris' hotel & casino.  In my Las Vegas guide book this observation point was voted the best place to get a great view of the whole strip. When I got up there I realised why. It is located pretty much in the middle of the strip which meant that I was able to get some great pictures of both ends. I was also lucky enough to catch the Bellagio fountains performance which is  cleverly coordinated to famous pieces of music and happens every 15 minutes or so. The view was breathtaking allowing you to see right over the airport and into the mountains, it was like a sparkling carpet of neon lights.

After touring the strip again we headed back pretty early for Vegas. I had a shower before making the most of my last night in Vegas by heading to the casino in our hotel to grab a drink and chill out by yes... You guessed it,  hitting the slot machines again. Tried some different ones this time and actually broke even so decided to call it a night just after 2am. The casino was still vibrant and full of atmosphere at this time however, a really enjoyable experience.

So then,  tomorrow it is on to our penultimate stop,  Los Angeles. Feels like I have been out here forever but the time is just flying  by.... If that makes sense. Las Vegas is a place with stunning bright lights, it is vibrant with a real party atmosphere. Each casino /hotel has its own unique style  but each have the same features, which are restaurants, bars, the same tables, and slot machines.

The weather in LA should be a little cooler as temps of Upper 70s are predicted.  Better wear a coat!