Sunday, May 18, 2014

Las Vegas - what does it have to offer?

I've blogged about Las Vegas before and probably will again.  So why do I name it #3 on my top 5 cities to visit around the world?  Las Vegas still has an old perception out there for most people.  The perception is that all there is to do is drink and gamble.  That's NOT the Vegas that I love to visit.

Where to stay:  
Spend a little more money on the room.  I know, most people will tell you to go cheap, but I DO NOT recommend that.  You want to stay in luxury while you're on vacation - why wouldn't this apply in Vegas too?  I personally like the Palazzo Hotel.  Not only is the hotel really nice, clean and all rooms are suites, it's on the corner where there is a TON of stuff to do in walking distance.  I like to pick a hotel that has it all so I can stay on property - Palazzo does.  

What to do:
Make dinner reservations at some of the best restaurants anywhere in the US.  All the top chefs have made Vegas their second home.  Take advantage of this!  Eat really well.  Another reason why I like to stay at Palazzo is they give you a coupon book and it includes discounts to many of the 5 star restaurants.  It's a who's who of top chefs.

My personal favorite restaurant is next door at the Venetian called Bouchon.  Thomas Keller is famous and his restaurant  - AMAZING!  You won't see it by walking around - you have to take the room elevators, but it's worth it.  I always feel like I'm back in a French Bistro looking at the chalkboard of yummy options.  If you cannot find time for this, catch his outside walk up window where they sell Macaroons.  The french ones, not the coconut version.  :) You won't be able to stop at just one cookie.

Next thing I do is make sure I see 1 show while I'm there.  I've learned over the years to not preplan this part of the vacation and that's tough for a natural planner to do this.  Trust me, use the TIX 4 Tonight business.  They sell tickets for same day and next day shows at 1/2 price off what you would pay at the Casino/Hotel.  They have a spot across the street from Palazzo (at Fashion Show Mall).

Best ways to relax?
1.)  Spa appointment - My personal favorite is at Bellagio.  You have to order a treatment to have access to the spa, but is it worth it!  Once you're in - you can enjoy the entire day in the spa.  
2.)  Pool side - If you stay at a nice hotel, they will also have a nice pool.  It's great!  All the nice hotels have umbrellas if you go during the Summer months.  They will also have multiple pools so you're not fighting for space with the kids.  At the Pallazo they have a special adult pool and all the amenities that you have in the hotel are available poolside.  You drink and eat your afternoon away while enjoying the pool and sunny weather of Nevada.

One last reason why I love to go to Vegas?  They are constantly building and rebuilding - always focused on the customer and making sure you have a terrific time.  Why wouldn't they - they want to come back.

Happy Traveling!  

Sunday, May 11, 2014

"What happens in Amsterdam - stays in Amsterdam?"

When I tell people that I enjoyed visiting Amsterdam, most Americans give me a funny smile and say "I'm sure you did".  I've never been a person who did drugs or drink beer, so I usually say, "why?"  Amsterdam, good or bad, is known to be a little bit of a Las Vegas without gambling.  Meaning - "What happens in Amsterdam - stays in Amsterdam?"

I found the city to be quaint, charming and beautiful.  The first thing my husband enjoyed is that we could speak English.  I loved how the water intersects with the streets and throughout the city beautifully.  The city uses water taxis to get around.  I highly suggest getting a hop on - hop off pass.  The city looks very different from the water AND the locals use bikes......LOTS of bikes.  It's a little terrifying to walk the streets as a pedestrian because of the constant sound of bells that you're in someones way!  No joke!!!

Two of my favorite museums are located in Amsterdam:  Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh museum.  What I love about the Rijks is how different it is than any museum in France.  It's mainly Dutch work which includes furniture and doll houses.  I left the museum really feeling like I got a glimpse into the culture.  Most museums are filled with art from all over, but this one focuses mainly on the art of their country.

The Van Gogh Museum surprised me.  It's filled with multiple sunflower paintings - who knew that Van Gogh painted the same scene in so many different colors?  I found it sweet that his brother kept all the pictures and letters Van Gogh wrote him.  It was very touching to see the family love and connection.


Another great thing about Amsterdam is that it's so close to everything.  Don't forget you can easily take a train to Paris, Brussels, or even to Germany.  It's easy to arrange and safe to travel on.  Just don't leave your bags unattended.  

One last suggestion, if you have time, try to take a dinner cruise.  They will start in a small canal and work their way to the ocean.  Not only do you get to see a different part of the city, you can enjoy some of the best seafood around.  The seafood is fresh and delicious.  Most desserts include a little Belgium chocolate - what could be better??

Happy Traveling!!