A Las Vegas Survival Guide: 12 Do’s and Don’ts

Vegas has a debaucherous reputation; it is known as Sin City, after all. As soon as you drive down the strip, you’ll be bombarded with billboards in Las Vegas advertising the best shows, restaurants, and attractions. Whether you are hitting the strip for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, these twelve do’,s and don’ts will help you survive your days on the strip. 

1. Do: Plan Ahead to Book the Best Hotel Deal

One of the best parts about staying in Vegas is taking advantage of the amenities at the gorgeous hotels and casinos. When choosing your hotel, consider which attractions you want to be near. If you are in Vegas for a work conference, stay close so you don’t have to rush in the morning. 

1. Don’t: Stay Off the Strip

In other cities staying off the main drag can help save money, but this isn’t the case for Vegas. Sure, off-strip hotels may save you a bit of money, but you can score plenty of good deals right in the center of town. Staying local will help you get home safe and sound after a full night of partying. 

1. Do: Hydrate!!!

Vegas is a party city, meaning the drinks will likely flow until the early morning hours. It can be easy to pound the cocktails and forget to drink water. Try and order a glass of water in between alcoholic beverages. Set yourself up for success by having a bottle of water by the bedside and load up electrolytes, so you stay feeling your best and get the most out of your vacation. 

1. Don’t: Expect to Get to Bed Early

Many of the casinos and shopping centers in Vegas have ceilings made to look like the sky. They do this on purpose to keep you up late and gambling at their tables longer. Even in the middle of the night, the lighting will make you feel like it’s the middle of the day. Get out and hit the clubs, play blackjack, and enjoy yourself! But don’t expect to get an early night. 

1. Do: Take Time to Refresh and Reset

Since you’ll likely be staying up later than you usually do, it’s essential you take some time each day to relax and recharge. Book an appointment at the hotel spa and indulge in a little self-care. At the very least, take a nap after leaving your work conference to refresh and reset for a night out on the town with your coworkers.  

1. Do: Take Advantage of All-You-Can-Eat-Buffets

Get the most for your money when you dine out by taking advantage of all-you-can-eat buffets. Buffets may get a bad rep, but Vegas shows the world what a 5-star buffest experience should be. Indulge in bottomless mimosas and crab legs at brunch and unlimited grilled meats and pizza for lunch or dinner. 

1. Don’t: Miss a Vegas Show

Sure, you could spend the entire time in Vegas at the pool or the casino, but visiting without taking advantage of the world-class entertainment would be a huge mistake. See astonishing feats performed by Cirque du Soliel, catch a classy and sassy burlesque performance, or dazzle your senses with a unique magic show. 

1. Do: Set a Gambling Budget

No one wants to bust their budget on the first day. Casinos are designed to keep you placing bets; in the end, the house always wins. Sit down for a few rounds of roulette, blackjack, or poker. Enjoy the complimentary cocktails while you’re at the table. But set a limit for yourself and let it go once you hit it.  

1. Don’t: Ignore Casino Etiquette

Play by the rules, and don’t cause a scene. Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t know the proper etiquette or rules. For example, never hand your money directly to a dealer and always use hand signals. Most dealers are happy to explain the game, especially if their table isn’t busy and you give them a generous tip. 

1. Do: Wear Comfortable Shoes

You will do a lot of walking in Vegas. These resorts are enormous, and the map makes the casinos appear deceptively close to each other. If you wear stilettos, you may find yourself walking around barefoot at 2 am. 

1. Don’t: Drink and Drive

Don’t be tempted to drive if you’re heading to a casino on the opposite end of the strip. You may save a few dollars compared to taking a taxi– but drinking and driving is dangerous! There a plenty of options to get around Vegas affordably without putting yourself or others at risk. 

1. Do: Take Advantage of the Monorail

One of the best ways to get around the strip is by taking advantage of the Las Vegas Monorail. It’s less expensive than a cab and allows you to quickly get from one end of the strip to the other, with multiple stops along the way.