Vegas Strip

In Vegas--

We took the resort's shuttle downtown to the strip and spent a good part of the day jumping from casino to casino. It's been quite a few years since we have been in Las Vegas and there have been a lot of changes. One thing that hasn't changed is that everything is over-the-top tacky. That, of course, is part of the charm of the place. Places like "Paris", "Venice", and "New York, New York" are interesting but don't compare to the real thing and once you are in the casino parts they are all the same. We spent a little over two days in Vegas. That was more than enough. I, frankly, don't understand how you could spend a whole week or more here. Not only that the days of cheap food and entertainment are long gone. A drink near the real Eiffel Tower is cheaper than one by the faux version in Vegas.

Friday we were off to Grand Canyon. On the way, we went by Hoover Dam and made a brief stop. Very disappointing. We drove down to the dam where you are diverted into a parking garage. the signs say be sure to have your money out and ready for the attendant but never mention how much. When we get there we find it is seven dollars which seems excessive since we intend to stay less than an hour. What the hell, we forked over the cash. We walked down to the dam, take a few pictures. A nearly three story staircase leads down to the visitor center which sits on the best view point. At the bottom a sign tells us if we wish to go in there is a charge of $8.00 each. If you go in you can take a guided tour for an additional $30 each. We passed on both.

Hoover Dam

Then it was on to Grand Canyon. We had reservations for a lodge in the park. After settling in we had time for a brief walk to the canyon rim, a few pics followed by dinner at the cafeteria. There is no wifi in the room so uploading this blog could be delayed.

Grand Canyon Rim