Las Vegas, Nevada
Growing up in Los Angeles and raised by a mother who enjoyed poker, craps and slots, Las Vegas became a frequent getaway for our family beginning in the 1970s. Over the years I’ve watched the demolition of famous casinos and the rise of sleek towers, buffet dining become passé in favor of restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs and Sin City make an unsuccessful run at becoming kid-friendly before wisely deciding to exploit its image by adopting the slogan “What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas.”
Throughout my countless visits, perhaps to the dismay of casinos, I’ve rarely gambled. But mention Vegas, and I’m always ready for the trip. The city offers so much that I seriously forget to gamble.
Because Las Vegas draws so many conventions and offers top-notch entertainment, there are a slew of travelers who aren’t there for the one-armed bandits or to entertain the croupiers. And the city is a haven for “mancations,” girlfriend getaways as well as bachelor and bachelorette parties – but everyone in the group may not gamble. If you’re a non-gambler like me and don’t want to stay in the hotel room while your friends are on the gaming floor, here are a few suggestions to occupy your time.
SPAS
You’ll forget you’re even in Las Vegas when you walk through the doors for your pampering session at one of the world-class spas this city offers. It’s impossible for me to pick my favorite. At Aria, part of the new City Center complex, the Ganbanyoku stone beds, a Shio salt-infused room and a therapy pool on the co-ed balcony make this sanctuary unique. Couples in particular will enjoy the wide array of treatments designed for two at Qua Baths & Spa inside Caesars Palace. If you really want to do it up, book the Sahra Suite at the Cosmopolitan that accommodates up to eight people for a four-hour minimum. If your feet need some TLC after all that walking, head to the Chinese Foot Spa inside the Mandarin Oriental’s fabulous two-story spa.
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