Las Vegas, Nevada: Embracing The Oasis

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Las Vegas, Nevada:
Embracing The Oasis

Today, we will embrace the tradition of seeking refuge in an oasis of water to escape the desert heat. In the past few years, Vegas has reinvented itself as a health destination (stop laughing) and each resort competes to provide the ultimate level of relaxation. Vegas now earns more money from spa treatments and food than from gambling. They are willing to practically give away the rooms in order to get you there for relaxation and a little shopping.

Tomorrow, we will contemplate what to eat. Food is a surprisingly divisive topic in Vegas but we will meet the controversy head-on and share strategies to ensure you gain a few pounds during your trip.
- Cris

Day 1: Freezes, Flowers, and Fun

Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace

The Arctic Ice Room at The Qua Baths & Spa in Caesars Palace has a near cult-like following. The idea is that alternating heat and cold improves circulation, decreases inflammation, and clears the mind. After enjoying a detoxifying hot sauna with aromatic herbal steam, you step into the crisp refreshing air of the Arctic Ice room. This is Vegas so it’s completely acceptable to wager a bet with your friend on who will bail out of the Arctic Room first 😃 First one to bail pays for dinner, just don’t get freezer burn while trying to win dinner.

The Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

The Mojave Desert can reach temperatures above 100F for weeks and so Bellagio brought their Conservatory and Botanical Gardens inside. The displays are changed 5 times each year and are rarely (never?) repeated and so each visit is unique. This is the first stop in a relaxing tour of the hotel lobbies, where they compete for your attention and dollars through extravagant displays. The entire experience is air conditioned and free, although older hotels that place the casino near the lobby will smell of cigarette smoke.

High Roller Observation Wheel

Soar 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the largest observation wheel in North America. With sweeping 360-degree views, the wheel takes 30 minutes to complete one revolution and features 28 spacious cabins to make you comfy. While the ride opens at noon, people in the know time their ride for sunset and watch the blazing red and orange sky light up the desert. It’s beautiful and relaxing. You definitely want to order your tickets online in advance or it will be sold out for sunset.

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Day 2: Leisurely Drive, Spa, and Dancing Water

Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive

While there are many hiking trails available, a relaxing vacationer chooses the 13-mile scenic drive. There are good places to pull over and take photos before jumping back into the air conditioned car. The Park Service does a great job at minimizing crowds by using a timed entry ticket system. Reservations are required October 1 to May 31 but recommended all year.

Health, Salt, and Planning

Truth: Amen sister
Just Breathe: The walls are made of Himalayan salt bricks
Next Trip: Hit ‘Reply’ and share your review if you have been here

Day 3: Spa Day!

Canyon Ranch Spa

When was the last time you took time just for you? This is my favorite spa in the entire world to disconnect, relax, and heal. There are multiple Himalayan salt rooms in which the walls extract toxins from your breath and skin, simply by lounging quietly. There is also a rock climbing gym, cardio, personal consultants for delicious recipes and healthcare professionals trained in integrative medicine (this means that going to the spa is prescribed as part of a healthy lifestyle). Bring a bathing suit and spend the entire day here. This is why you came to Vegas.

Bellagio Fountains

The fountains “dance” and light up to the beat of music with a full show often including several songs. It’s far more entertaining than I have described. It’s so entertaining that large crowds gather and bring with them the noise and chaos that might ruin your beautiful spa mood. Non-smokers should book a table at the The Mayfair Supper Club while smokers (and people who tolerate it) have the option of a table at Lago by Julian Serrano. Both restaurants have superb food, drinks, and ambience. Tip: reserve your table at the same time as you book your hotel and flights because window seats are legitimately difficult to find on short notice.

Day 4: Lounge At The Pool

Mandalay Bay Beach is an 11-acre aquatic playground that includes a wave pool, lazy river, lagoon, and (of course) a pool. Basking in the desert sun with occasional trips around the lazy river to cool off is nearly a meditative experience. It is strongly recommended to reserve your preferred seating or your group will be split among various areas, without the level of desired sun or shade. If you’re looking for a more exclusive, adult atmosphere then we recommend the Moorea Beach Club where bathing tops are optional and large, private suites and villas are available for rent. Need to justify renting a villa for the pool? It’s important to take care of your skin.

Tomorrow, we will explore what to eat in order to fuel these wonderful days. Food is a complex topic in Vegas and we will share strategies to find your perfect menu.

See you tomorrow.

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