Category: Local Attractions

Time to get “fireworked” up over another July 4th in Vegas!

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Fireworks in a place like Las Vegas would seem almost beside the point if the city itself weren’t a testament to excess. Not enough neon? Let’s set off some sky explosions! Like New Year’s Eve, July 4th brings out our redundant, over-the-top best, with spectacular fireworks displays lighting up the night sky all over the valley. If you’re staying with us over the holiday and want to know where to watch the fireworks, we recommend the Skyview Lounge on the 10th floor of Tower 5. There isn’t a better view in all Las Vegas!

For a list of all the July 4th fireworks locations, parties and events, please click here.

We wish you a happy and safe Independence Day!

Las Vegas Myths Set Straight

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The phrase “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” might be true…to a degree, but there are a lot of myths and fallacies about the city that we’re ready to shed some light on.

Have you been to Las Vegas recently? It isn’t the same gritty gambling mecca it once was in the 70s and 80s. In fact, reputation in Paradise is somewhat of a myth in itself, so let’s set the record straight on some of the more prevalent Las Vegas myths.

Myth #1: It’s all about the gambling.

Interestingly enough, about half of Vegas visitors in a recent survey indicated that they traveled to Vegas strictly for business, with 47% saying the purpose of the trip was vacation or pleasure. Gambling is still big business in Las Vegas, with the State of Nevada raking in just under $11 billion in revenues out of a national total of $34 billion. But there is way more to Las Vegas than gambling. The city and surrounding areas have emerged as being more than just gaming alone. Intrigue for travelers include award-winning shows, celebrity chefs and restaurants, and relaxation time spent at the pools and spas. Yes, many Vegas goers still hit the casino floor, but it’s more about an entire entertainment experience.

Another myth around gambling in Vegas is that hotels pump oxygen into the casino floor. Most people want to believe this myth because it gives them an excuse when they realize how long they’ve been inside the casino. But pumping oxygen into every casino would turn out to be rather dangerous and impractical. Some also want to believe that all casino games are fixed, and no one will ever win big. It is true that the house always wins, but there are other times where locals and tourists alike can hit the jackpot and walkout of the casino as a wealthier player. But, overall, all casino games are a gamble and will continue to keep the people coming back for more.

Myth #2: Locals in Vegas enjoy a non-stop party.

The Las Vegas Valley boasts a resident count of about 2 million people, and these individuals comprise of teachers, doctors, construction workers, office personnel, and others who live here year-round and keep the city running. Though there is no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas, most of the partiers are the visitors. It can be quite exhausting, as you’d assume, to stay out until 2 or 3am and then pop out of bed at 7am and head to work. You can party in Las Vegas, but the majority of residents are simply going about their daily lives in the shadow of the Strip.

Another misunderstanding regarding locals in the area is that all Vegas residents live in hotels. This, indeed, is a myth. Yes, some locals of the valley do work in the hotels and casinos, but most residents live a good distance from all the hustle and bustle of the famous Las Vegas strip. You might be able to find a few residents enjoying a nice staycation at one of the fancy strip hotels, or enjoying the famous fountain show outside of the Bellagio, but that’s a whole different story.

Myth #3: Vegas is only for adults.

If there is one positive shift in the Las Vegas landscape over the past few decades, it is the growing diversity of the area to encompass activities for all ages. Adults will always enjoy Sin City as a desert playground, but families find that Vegas is a friendly place for kids, too. World-class waterparks, museums, amusement parks, natural areas, and more appeal to the under 21 crew, and adults find these venues have their own appeal. Family vacations can sometimes be exhausting, but when you plan a trip to Las Vegas, it is never a bad time! Kids will enjoy the variety of attractions available to them as well as fun activities that they wouldn’t expect to participate in while staying in the desert. Let your children explore the wide variety of restaurants to pick from or let them experience the landscaping where a city was built from nothing!

Myth #4: Everything fun happens on the Strip.

The Strip is where the bright lights and big casinos are found, but to say the fun stops there is simply untrue. Downtown’s Fremont Experience is a revitalization of “old” Vegas with restaurants, casinos, and the famed SlotZilla zipline letting guests soar over the crowds. Downtown you’ll also find the Neon Museum, Mob Museum, and downtown’s art district where you’ll find local galleries and boutiques. When you are visiting Vegas and venture to another area besides the strip, you will experience a completely different and exciting Vegas to explore. Look into local attractions while staying in the desert, and see why so many people have turned this tourist town into their home.

Myth #5: Las Vegas shows are expensive.

Yes, some Las Vegas shows can be expensive but because of the high tourism rate, you can see high-caliber performances for a more cost-efficient price. Don’t count out the live music and entertainment available wherever you stay and keep an eye on free performances at local outdoor areas, especially throughout the summer. Las Vegas is a place that offers something for everyone, so keep that in mind when you are on the hunt for a show to see.

Some of these myths and fallacies paint a “unique” picture of the city of Las Vegas, but the reality is that Vegas has emerged as a world-class destination for individuals, couples, and families who desire a fun, affordable and relaxing place to visit at any time of the year. Plan your Vegas trip today, and prepare to create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Vegas Through a Child’s Eye

Blog,  Family Friendly,  Las Vegas Activities,  Las Vegas EventsPosted on

Las Vegas offers a dizzying array of attractions and entertainment options for both kids and adults, alike – here’s what to consider when planning the ultimate family vacation.

When most people think of Las Vegas, the image that immediately comes to mind is one of noisy casinos, alcohol-fueled escapades, and adults-only venues. This doesn’t exactly make it a place worthwhile to your children who’d rather swim, play, and explore when on vacation. However, Vegas is certainly still a world-class playground for the 21-and-over crowd, it is also the ultimate place to take a family vacation. As the Entertainment Capital of the World, it truly has something for everyone.

 

Accommodations Fit for All Ages

Vegas has strict rules about kids being out on the gaming floor, so a traditional casino on the Las Vegas Strip may not be the ideal lodging spot for you and your family. If you are firmly committed to staying on the Strip, a kid-themed hotel/casino like Excalibur or Circus Circus may be better suited to keeping kids happy more than others.

But if you’re looking for the ultimate stay with accommodations fit for the whole family, step away from the chaos of the Strip and check out a resort like Tahiti Village. Here you’ll receive a relaxing, islands-themed atmosphere, with stunning pools, traditional summer luaus, and plenty of food and drink options to keep kids and adults happy. Regardless of where you stay, make sure you have plenty of room for everyone – and a kitchenette for in-room cooking, which helps if you don’t want to eat out every night.

Enjoy family style fun in Vegas with everything from water parks to interactive museums to day-trip escapades, there is plenty to keep the kids happy when vacationing in the desert. It’s a way to see Sin City through a different, yet still exciting, lens.

All Day Waterparks

If you’re looking for an exhilarating day outside with the kiddos, consider visiting one of the two big waterparks in the area. On the west side of town is Wet ‘n Wild Las Vegas, and on the east side is the ever-popular Cowabunga Bay. They are both highly-rated, quite affordable, and a great outing to cool off during the peak of the summer heat for your Vegas family vacation.

Engaging and Educational Museums

You can also beat the heat by visiting kid-friendly places indoors. Some of the best museums for kids in Vegas include the Las Vegas Natural History Museum, the Discovery Children’s Museum, the Pinball Hall of Fame, and the Springs Preserve. The Ethel M Chocolate Factory Tour and Cactus Garden is a perennial favorite, as is Hershey’s Chocolate World and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors

Getting outdoors is not only a possibility in Las Vegas, it should be considered a must-do. Some of the family-friendly outdoor recreation areas within driving distance of Las Vegas include: Lake Mead National Recreation Area (rent boats or personal watercraft, go fishing, etc.), the Grand Canyon (a bucket list item for every traveler’s list) and Red Rock Canyon. The surrounding natural areas adjacent to Las Vegas are perfectly suited to families looking to explore on foot, via jeep, on an ATV, personal watercraft, or even helicopter.

There are so many things to do in Las Vegas that will be entertaining for your child, so start planning your trip now. For more information about where to stay in Las Vegas with a family, what to do in the area, and how to create the ultimate Vegas family vacation getaway, contact Tahiti Village today.

The Luau – History’s Original Summer Party

Events and Activities,  Las Vegas Activities,  Las Vegas Events,  Luau,  Special EventsPosted on

Everyone loves a good party, especially a luau party! Here’s all you need to know to enjoy the original summertime celebration.

If you’re looking for a good time this summer, you must add a luau to your social calendar. Think about it – amazing food, inventive drinks, lively entertainment, authentic islands-themed music – and all set to a poolside backdrop. Can it get any better? If you’re ready to party tropical-style, keep the following considerations in mind:

The Attire

This isn’t a black-tie affair. In fact, a style that focuses on comfort and relaxation are hallmarks of the luau party experience. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider what to wear. Guys can do a Hawaiian shirt or short-sleeved button down shirt paired with linen or cotton pants or shorts. Sandals or casual shoes are the way to go. Ladies, keep it simple yet elegant with a flowing, floral-pattern dress or skirt with sleeveless top. Then, accent with subtle, natural-looking accessories. You don’t have to wear a grass skirt to fit in at a luau, but it won’t look out of place either. It’ll show how festive you are.

The Food

A traditional luau represents a terrific opportunity to sample authentic Polynesian dishes, so jump right in and create excitement around trying the food and drink specials at the party. You’ll likely find staples like teriyaki chicken or beef, as well as more authentic dishes like Huli Huli chicken, Lau Lau, and chicken long rice. Plus, a luau isn’t complete without Poi – the famous Hawaiian side dish, or poke, potato salad, and baked sweet potatoes. An assortment of fresh, tropical fruit will likely be served, too. The food table at a luau is all about authenticity, freshness, and diverse flavors. Your taste buds won’t know what hit them!

The Entertainment

Expect incredible, rhythmic Polynesian music at your upcoming luau, setting the perfect backdrop for dancers entrancing the audience with distinctly Tahitian moves. While there are a variety of dance styles often associated with a luau (like Tongan, Hula, Samoan, Fijian, Tahitian, and New Zealand), Tahitian moves are quite common. And don’t expect to simply sit back and be entertained – you’re expected to hop up and bust a move yourself. Dancers will teach you how to sway your hips and feel the rhythm of the drums as you dance the hula with dozens of your new best friends. Yes, fire dancing is often a part of the entertainment, but hitting the dance floor and learning some new moves is unforgettably fun.

There are some incredible luaus to discover across the nation, with one of the premier experiences being right in the heart of Las Vegas – at Tahiti Village. Tahiti Village’s Sunday Luau is every Sunday night over the summer and features festive drinks, an amazing Tahitian-style buffet, colorful entertainment including fire twirling, and a laid-back, come-as-you-are attitude that works in perfect concert with their islands-themed resort.

Luaus have been historically significant celebrations of important milestones in island cultural life, and the spirit lives on today. Even in modern cities like Las Vegas, the luau continues to be a special occasion that marks a reverence for life, an appreciation for friends and family, and a celebration of all things ‘ohana – family.

Beginner’s Guide to EDC

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Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) is right around the corner (June 16-18!) – keep these essential tips in mind to immerse yourself in the year’s biggest and best electronic music show.

Whether you’ve attended EDC before or you’re gearing up for your first foray into the desert’s most exciting music festival, there are two ways to approach the festival – with a plan, or without one. Let’s break down the essential considerations to make with EDC coming up very soon!

Where to Stay

First, where will you stay? Though Vegas has over 124,000 available hotel rooms, they fill up quickly – especially on festival weekends. And, prices tend to jump up during this time, too. A best practice for those attending EDC? Look for a hotel or resort located off the Strip. That will save you money and often results in a nicer, bigger room in a less frenetic setting than you’d find in the heart of Vegas.

How to Get There

Next, once you get to Vegas, you’ll need to figure out how to get to EDC, which is located at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. You can take a private coach or rideshare to the area, but you’ll also have to figure out how to get back home afterwards. There are parking spots at the Speedway, which open at 5pm, but it gets crowded quickly and there is no guarantee you’ll get in or out of the venue easily. Buses will be running, too – and this might be the best way to get to EDC.

What to Wear

Get comfortable! Part of the fun of EDC is flaunting your own unique sense of style but you want to keep comfort in mind, too. Wear comfy shoes, even if you’re planning to don a more creative outfit. Something as simple as top-quality gel insoles in a pair of boots can help save your feet. Think about the number of people who will be clamoring towards the stage, dancing, and walking around throughout the event. There’s a good chance your foot may get stepped on a time or two; plan your footwear accordingly.

Day of Details

Finally, plan for days spent in the sun. You’ll want to pack sunscreen, lip balm, and a travel-sized package of sanitizing wipes to help keep germs away. Another health concern is maintaining hydration. Summer in Las Vegas means you’ll want to drink plenty of water. Bring a water bottle and use one of the free water refilling stations located throughout the venue. The less you bring, the less you’ll have to carry with you throughout the day, but to check on what is and is not allowed inside the venue, there’s a complete list to reference.

EDC is a good time for those who are looking for an eclectic, artistic atmosphere where you can enjoy a diverse assortment of artists, musical acts, performers and more. Who are you most excited to see from this year’s lineup of performers? Have fun at EDC, stay safe, find the right place to stay, and prepare for the time of your life!

Lazy River Games

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Enjoying a relaxing day by the pool at Tahiti Village is sublime. Keeping the kids entertained in the pool while you unwind is priceless.

You’ve made the wise choice to book a suite at Tahiti Village – the only Tahitian-themed resort featuring spacious suites, incredible islands-themed pools and a lazy river, and sumptuous dining options in Las Vegas. And nothing quite feels like an islands-themed vacation than spending time sitting by the pool, sipping on your favorite drink (Bahama Mama, anyone?) while the kids spend time splashing about. Let’s jump in and conduct a little “pool game brainstorming” to help keep the kids entertained all day while you relax in the shade.

  1. Marco Polo: Yes, you played this one when you were a kid; so, why not reintroduce it to the digital crowd? Your kids will love the classic “cat-and-mouse” scenario. Plus, it makes for serious social interaction that can help them create new friends at the pool.
  1. Not-So-Lazy-River: The name “Lazy River” implies an idyllic, almost passive trip around the resort on an inner tube – and that’s exactly what it should be. But, you can introduce a little friendly competition and healthy movement by having your kids compete to see who can navigate their way around the Lazy Loop the quickest.
  1. Water Volleyball: Kids of all ages love to compete, and what better way to have fun in the sun than with a game of water volleyball? Grab a ball, gather some friends, and then serve, set, spike, block, and dig your way to victory in the pool.
  1. Sharks and Minnows: The name pretty much says it all, but Sharks and Minnows is essentially a splash-inducing game of “tag” in the pool. The shark starts at one side of the pool and the minnows at the other. Once the game is on, the minnows try to swim to the shark’s side of the pool without getting tagged. Each minnow that is tagged becomes a shark, until there is just one minnow left. The victorious minnow becomes the shark in the next round.
  1. Handstand Olympics: Ok, it’s not exactly the Olympics, but a handstand competition in the pool can make even the least athletic among us feel like a world-class gymnast. Have one person act as an impartial judge. Then, ask three or more kids to complete their best handstand – with extra points added for originality, best pose, or longest time spent upright. Add categories like “best one-handed handstand” or “longest time until a tip-over” to spice it up.
  1. Treasure Hunt: Bring along some fun pool toys that’ll sink, and then have one kid act as the “pirate” – stashing his or her treasure about the pool. Teams of kids can work together to see who can recover the pirate’s booty the quickest. Points are added for high-value prizes like fake gold coins or other treasure.

This summer, take a trip to Tahiti Village in Las Vegas and unwind for a few days. Once you’ve kicked off your shoes and parked your stresses at the front door, sit by the poolside and enjoy a quick bite, a cool drink, and the feel of the sun on your face.

Then, unleash the kids on the swimming pools and lazy river and allow them to create their own unique games. What is your child’s favorite pool game? Afterwards, enjoy islands-themed food at one of the on-site eateries, or spend time at the world-class spa located right in the heart of the resort. No matter how you define relaxation, you’ll find it at Tahiti Village, your oasis from the outside world.

Mother’s Day in Las Vegas

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Celebrate the special woman in your life by creating a Vegas-inspired itinerary that focuses on all things mom-inspired.

Whether you’re a local Las Vegas resident or you’re planning on traveling to Las Vegas this coming Mother’s Day weekend, you can add a little excitement, luxury, and laughter to your celebration by taking your mom out for a full day of fun!

Start the Day with Brunch

Vegas is known for its award-winning restaurants and fine dining spots. This city will pull out all the stops in celebration of mothers everywhere, so make sure you reserve a table because restaurants will be abuzz with activity and Mother’s Day restaurant specials will be in full swing.

The Country Club at the Wynn Las Vegas is a treat for any occasion, but their Mother’s Day brunch is simply amazing. Enjoy an American Steakhouse with an imaginative cuisine overlooking the 18th hole on the verdant Wynn Golf Course. Whether your mom is looking to indulge in a steak cooked to perfection or dive into an amazing seafood spread, you will find it all at this upscale golf club created by Steve Wynn himself.

Hank’s Fine Steaks & Martinis in Henderson is the perfect location to take your special guest. This popular local fine dining establishment offers a terrific brunch and an incredible dinner menu that was recently honored with the AAA Four Diamond Award! At Hank’s, only the finest cuts of meat are served along with one of the best premium dining experiences in Henderson, NV. Enjoy a modern yet mid-century décor with your mom for the best Mother’s Day experience to date.

Honey Salt is another go-to brunch spot in Las Vegas (rated #1 on Yelp), and their fresh American offerings and delectable desserts are the perfect treat for mom.  Experience a farm-to-table meal in an atmosphere that thrives on family, friends, and community. This earthy and modern destination in the desert is perfect for an unforgettable brunch to celebrate all things mom.

Standard & Pour in Anthem offers a stunning brunch menu and a variety of breakfast and tapas/small plate offerings. The goal here is to offer locals and guests in Las Vegas a dining experience that is not a chain, tavern, casino, or a pub, but instead an elegant and unique destination. You’ll find this restaurant on South Eastern Avenue in Henderson, so take your mom out on the town to this one of a kind restaurant, loved by all!

17° South Booze & Bites located at Tahiti Village has a wide assortment of island-inspired dishes and specialty cocktails in an open dining area for an ideal afternoon of relaxation. Treat your mom to one of the best, with cocktails, draft beer options, and an amazing variety of food! 17° South Booze & Bites knows what they’re doing when it comes to special occasions.

Add in a Fun Activity

Think mom might be up for an adventure? Vegas is known for its activities, attractions, and entertainment; there’s really no limit to what you can plan.

The High Roller: Vegas’ landmark Ferris wheel stretches a full 550-feet up into the desert sky and offers unparalleled views of the Strip, Downtown Vegas, and the surrounding areas. Better yet, mothers ride free this coming Mother’s Day, and even get a glass of champagne and a complimentary 4 x 6 photo to commemorate the event.

Indoor Skydiving: Head over to Vegas Indoor Skydiving and feel the rush of a simulated free fall – all in the total safety of Las Vegas’ leading indoor skydiving facility. A 1,000-horsepower fan motor delivers all the thrust you need to send mom flying safely through the air and leaving her feeling like Superwoman for a truly epic adventure.

Neon Museum: Take mom on a visual trip through history and view all the old signage Las Vegas is known for. They offer both day and night tours through the “boneyard,” but it’s best to book in advance as they quickly sell out.

End the Day with Relaxation

A Pool/Spa Retreat: You don’t have to board a plane to spend time in the tropics. In fact, by reserving a suite at the islands-themed Tahiti Village Resort & Spa, you’ll treat her to a Tahitian getaway that includes luxurious suites, incredible pools, a lazy river, a spa, fitness center, and more. It’s a way to let her retreat to a personal oasis from the outside world.

Visit a Local Museum: There are so many to choose from – so pick one or two and leisurely stroll this Mother’s Day. From the Pinball Museum Hall of Fame to the Mob Museum to the numerous art museums located in Downtown Las Vegas in the Arts District, you can custom tailor your excursion to her unique tastes.

Mother’s Day in Las Vegas can be anything you desire. From a laid-back weekend at the pool to an exhilarating ride on one of the city’s most thrilling feats of engineering, you’ll find that there is no shortage of fun things to do in Sin City.

Get to Know Vegas Beyond the Lights

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Beyond the lights, glitz, and chaos of the Las Vegas Strip lies the chance for real adventure – no gaming involved.

Mention Las Vegas to most people, and they’ll immediately think of the casinos, endless buffets, the Vegas lights, and tourist-trap hot spots that dot Las Vegas Boulevard. And while the Strip certainly has its share of exciting venues and world-class dining opportunities, there is life beyond the 4.2-mile stretch of road between Sahara Avenue and Russell Road, known as “The Strip.” Let’s look at several terrific options for visitors and locals who want to get to know Las Vegas beyond the lights.

Hoover Dam: Just 30 minutes east of Las Vegas lies a marvel of man-made engineering – the Hoover Dam. Known originally as Boulder Dam until it was renamed in 1947, the dam measures 726 feet in height and spans across the entirety of the Black Canyon of the Colorado River – joining Arizona and Nevada in the process. Take time for a tour and learn how to purchase paddle craft and rafting permits that let you launch a kayak, canoe, or personal raft right below the dam. Open 363 days a year (closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas), the Hoover Dam is an absolute must-see of things to do in Las Vegas.

Lion Habitat Ranch: Henderson, a town on the southeast corner of the Las Vegas Valley, is home to a wide range of exciting destinations – Lion Habitat Ranch is one of them. There are immersive options that let you feed the lions ($800), interact with lion cubs ($200 for two people), dine in close proximity to lions (Feast with the Beasts, variable cost), or simply pay an admission fee and observe the lions up close. Private tours are also available. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this exciting adventure while visiting the desert!

Ethel M Factory Tour & Botanical Garden: If you’re looking for something completely different while visiting Sin City, then look no further! What could be better than combining fresh, rich chocolate with a beautiful natural setting? That’s exactly what you get when you take the Ethel M Chocolate Factory tour. Located in Henderson, just 15 minutes from the Strip, and completely FREE to enjoy, visitors will enjoy learning about the chocolate making process and then have access to a botanical cactus garden that features more than 300 unique plant species.

Pahrump Valley Winery: Take a break from the intensity of Las Vegas and head out to Pahrump – a town about an hour away from Vegas that is home to an award-winning winery, the Pahrump Valley Winery. Their wines have won 86 national awards, including two Double Gold medals. Nevada Magazine voted the winery the Best Restaurant and Best Winery in both 2015 and 2016. Sample their diverse selection of wines and see where the magic happens yourself.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: Though the desert may appear dry and featureless at first glance, it is actually a vibrant ecosystem that is home to a variety of plants, animals, and geographic features. And nothing stands out more when looking west from the Las Vegas Strip than Red Rock Canyon. Spanning nearly 200,000 acres and attracting more than two million visitors each year, this area is a goldmine for geo-lovers everywhere. Sandstone walls measure 3,000 feet tall in some places, and La Madre mountain marks the high point in the park with an elevation of 8,154 feet. Get there at just the right time for an awe-inspiring sunrise, easy parking, and minimal crowds to maximize your overall adventure in the rocks and mountains that define the desert.

Vegas has so much to offer and different options when it comes to exploring the areas beyond the bright lights of the Strip, including your choice of lodging. If you’re looking to enjoy all that Vegas has to offer – the excitement, the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, and the ingenious manmade attractions and exhibits, consider a stay here at Tahiti Village Resort & Spa – just two miles away. You’ll find an oasis away from the noise and congestion of the Strip, but you’ll never be more than a few minutes from the action.

Hospitality at its Finest

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May 3rd- 5th marks the annual Hospitality Design 2017 Expo & Conference in Vegas, and is the perfect venue to experience all that Vegas has to offer – and what has changed over the years.

If four million Americans all decided to stay in their own hotel room on any given night, there would be plenty of room for everyone at US-based hotels. The hospitality industry is a massive one, commanding $550 billion dollars worldwide from travelers in 2016 alone. And the overall expenditures on both sides of the equation are equally staggering.

Hotels spend incredible sums of money on a variety of things, and inject billions into the world economy as they work alongside vendors and service providers to keep their properties humming. The IRS noted that Marriott spent $190 million just to replace old bedding at its properties recently, and spends $20 million a year on skin-care products for its hotel rooms. With the hospitality industry, as a whole, generating nearly as much revenue as the GDP of Finland, Sweden, and Norway combined, it certainly attracts a lot of attention. And no gathering of hospitality industry trends stands out quite like the Hospitality Design Expo & Conference – held this year in Las Vegas.

What to Expect This Year

The HD Expo has been going strong since 1992, and over the past 25 years it has gained serious momentum as the premier trade show for the hospitality industry. The goal of the show is to:

*Connect industry professionals who can collaborate and turn current challenges and opportunities into real-world solutions.

* Expose up-and-coming designers to key industry decision-makers who can boost the visibility of emerging technologists and artists.

* Offer LU/CEU accredited courses that not only deliver leading-edge industry information, but can also grant educational credits for life-long learners in the field.

* Showcase leaders in the hospitality field who can discuss the ins and outs of managing and growing a successful brand.

The 2017 HD Expo is estimated to pull an expected 17,500 attendees and is a great opportunity for anyone involved in the hospitality field to learn more about the contemporary world of hotels and their related services. Las Vegas is the perfect venue for this type of exposition, as it embodies a true spirit of adaptability that has literally reshaped the skyline over the past 20 years.

Las Vegas has demonstrated how service and the client experience has had to change to keep up with changing tastes, how design features that were once considered unrealistic or even unattainable are now in demand, and how technology has reshaped the way hospitality industry firms do business.

Think about it – for the 40 million or so annual visitors to Las Vegas, how many of them booked their room via an online booking system? Or downloaded the app to enable easier management of their resort stay? Did social media influence their decision? Statistics say that social media is one of the biggest influencers when it comes to making a hotel stay decision. Wi-Fi infrastructure overhauls are another big push. It isn’t acceptable anymore for a hotel guest to not have robust and reliable Wi-Fi on the hotel property. Even SMART room keys, which allow guests to unlock their room doors with a swipe of their smartphone, are quickly replacing the old “credit card-style” room keys. These innovations, and more, will be showcased and discussed at the 2017 HD Expo in Las Vegas.

One of the biggest changes seen in hospitality industry trends in Vegas is a move away from hotels with a “gambler’s Mecca” theme to one of an all-immersive resort experience. Tahiti Village, for example, lies just minutes away from the gaming tables of the Strip, yet pampers guests with an all-encompassing Island theme – perfect for escaping the noise and hustle of the Las Vegas’ Strip. A resort like Tahiti Village is one example of the “New Vegas” – a far cry from the stale, smoke-filled card rooms of yesteryear.

Come check out the HD Expo this year for yourself, or simply book a room in Vegas to see firsthand what hospitality looks like – Vegas-style.

How to Have Fun with Your Tax Return in Vegas

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]You’ve tallied your deductions, completed your 1040, and your tax return has just landed in your bank account. Now it’s time to take that cash and create memories in Las Vegas.

It’s easy to spend money in Las Vegas. You can burn through a hefty chunk of change in an hour at the card tables. Or, drop hundreds on a couple rounds of drinks at any bar in the city. But what about doing something that will create memories that’ll last a lifetime – or at least a story or two to tell your buddies back home? Let’s look at several ways to have fun with your tax return in Vegas this year.

Food: Vegas is home to the $5000 hamburger (the FleurBurger 5000 – available at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino), but there are ways to have fun and experience incredible food without having to take out a second mortgage on your home. Enjoy dinner at the Strip House, select one of their incredible steaks, then prepare to splurge on their famous 24-layer chocolate cake. It will easily feed ten people, and costs $120. It’s something that dreams are made of for die-hard chocolate fans and worth the money.

Or, visit Bazaar Meat at the SLS and order roasted pig for the entire table for about $520. It’s incredible. For the sushi lover out there, Sushi Roko is the sushi destination in Vegas – where you can order the High-Roller Roll, a Bluefin tuna, caviar, and tempura lobster concoction that is a once-in-a-lifetime order for $250. There is no shortage of incredible food options, so be thankful you itemized those deductions so carefully and planned your trip around your tax return.

Adventure: You can work up a real adrenaline high at the poker tables, but consider this – Vegas is home to a wide array of exhilarating attractions and activities that guarantee a return on your investment. Try getting that at the casino. First, embark on a helicopter tour of the Vegas Strip or the surrounding areas. This isn’t as expensive as you might think, and the skilled pilots are adept at showing you all the area has to offer. Maverick Helicopters is a local favorite. They’ll even fly you to valley of Fire State Park for an ethereal yoga class on top of the Red Rock cliffs.

If you’re looking to stay close to Vegas, head down to Fremont Street and ride the Slotzilla Zip Line. For just $20, each member of your party can glide 114 feet above the street across 850 feet of zip line. We recommend reserving a spot at night when the area is lit up. Vegas is about adventure – so allocate those tax return dollars appropriately and create memories that will last a lifetime!

The Resorts: There is no shortage of fabulous places to stay in Las Vegas, but consider using some of your tax return dollars to stay at a relaxing resort that’ll rejuvenate your soul. Tahiti Village is a personal oasis just two miles from the Strip, with an islands theme, delicious food, and a world-class spa. The suites at Tahiti Village are like a home away from home – perfect for both visitors and locals.

Tax season has come and gone – and hopefully you had a little extra spending money deposited into your bank account this year. Take it and start planning your Vegas getaway today. You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime, or at least until next April 15th.