Las Vegas

There can scarcely be another place on the planet that is better equipped when it comes to accommodation than Las Vegas and the mega-resorts that illuminate its infamous Strip. With over 4,000 rooms, a casino of epic proportions and glitz and glamour a-plenty, the Venetian Resort (3355 Las Vegas Boulevard South) is a prime example of the Las Vegas allure. Those into their golf might want to stay at the decadent Wynn Las Vegas (3131 Las Vegas Boulevard South) which boasts an 18-hole course, while the equally luxurious Bellagio (3600 Las Vegas Boulevard South) is a renowned establishment with resplendent dancing fountains. If you'd prefer a slightly quieter time away from the Strip, take a look at the peaceful Platinum Hotel (211 East Flamingo Road).

Those after a high-end designer shopping experience must feel like Las Vegas is some kind of spiritual home. Glittering shopping arcades are usually found within the big-name resorts, such as The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace (3500 Las Vegas Boulevard South) and Crystals at CityCenter (3720 Las Vegas Boulevard South). Off the Strip try Masquerade Village at Rio (3700 West Flamingo Road), or for a spot of bargain hunting head to Las Vegas Premium Outlets (875 South Grand Central Parkway) where you'll find over 150 stores offering what are often excellent savings on well-known brands.

The dining scene in Las Vegas is as comprehensive as you would expect, and is often hugely impressive. There’s a vast array of buffets and fast food outlets for a quick bite, but there are also plenty of restaurants for a more relaxing experience. To mention just a few, celebrity chefs Wolfgang Puck and Joël Robuchon both serve up offerings at MGM Grand (3799 Las Vegas Boulevard South), while Roy’s (620 East Flamingo Road) is renowned for its Hawaiian fusion menu. Away from the Strip, those into their Japanese food should head for Raku (5030 West Spring Mountain Road), which is a fine example of the global nature Vegas throws up with its cuisine.

NASCAR Weekend

March

NASCAR hits the Las Vegas Motor Speedway each March as the Sprint Cup Series draws a crowd in the region of 150,000, which creates a frenzied atmosphere as the suped-up rally cars burn rubber around the track.

UNLVino

April

A fundraising event for the University of Nevada, these four days of wine-based celebration centre on an expansive tasting at Paris Las Vegas. Over 100 international winemakers flock to the Strip as visitors enjoy side events eschewing the virtues of champagne, sake and cocktails.

Elks Helldorado Days

May

If the Wild West gets your juices flowing then this four-day festival is the one for you. Workers at the nearby Hoover Dam site were first entertained by the Elks Helldorado Days in 1934, which lays on a carnival, parade and rodeo as it seeks to recapture the spirit of the Wild West.

Halloween

31 October

Las Vegas is an incredible place to be on Halloween, as the entire Strip whips itself up into a frightful frenzy. Fancy dress parties, concerts and eye-catching costumes light up an evening of hedonism, creating a memorable one for the photo album.

National Finals Rodeo

December

The premier rodeo event in the United States, with a popularity that means tickets can be hard to come by. The National Finals Rodeo lasts for 10 days and is a mecca for those into their bucking, wrangling and general cowboy antics.