3 Things to Expect on Your Next Trip to Vegas
At one point last year, it seemed as though the entire world had shut down. People left their houses only when they had to, restaurants, cafes, and malls closed, and holidays and vacations were canceled. Now, after many months of lockdown, popular tourist destinations, including Vegas, are slowly opening their doors to new and excited visitors.
While casino lovers were exiled away from entering Vegas during this period, many took to exploring the online sphere of casinos, in which new casino sites for 2021 are doing better than ever.
Still – although the Vegas experience now isn’t the same as it was in previous years, casino enthusiasts can finally re-enter their favorite gambling facilities while respecting new health and safety protocols.
Even though the reopening process started slow, Las Vegas visitors could see the gradual progression and improvement as more resorts, casinos, and restaurants began welcoming back their loyal guests. Now, months after the official launch of the tourist season, the majority of Sin City’s main attractions are up and running — with necessary modifications, of course.
Namely, if you’re interested in booking a Vegas vacation or going on a much-needed road trip, you’ll notice that the entire planning process has undergone certain changes. Each property has adapted the way it functions, intending to provide its guests with a safe visit.
Therefore, don’t be surprised that there are no large-scale shows and concerts. You will also notice that each casino and restaurant practices safe social distancing along with additional health measures.
Still, even with these precautions in place, Las Vegas will offer you a thrilling and memorable trip. If you don’t like big crowds, this is the perfect opportunity to visit the Strip and see some of the monumental attractions that are usually crawling with tourists.
So, if your Vegas trip is coming up soon, keep the following updates in mind, make sure to pack all the necessities (masks and hand sanitizers), and prepare yourself for a slightly different yet unique Vegas experience.
Accommodation — Where to Stay?
Except for a couple of hotels and properties, most Vegas Strip resort accommodations have already begun welcoming new visitors. No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll notice that each place has a special check-in protocol in order. You can’t simply walk into the lobby, go to the reception desk, and check in.
What you’ll need to do is follow the lines while maintaining a safe physical distance. Another popular option is online check-in, as it allows people to confirm their arrival and safely avoid potential crowds.
If you choose to stay at the Caesars Entertainment resort, for example, make sure to check out the extensive health and safety plan published on their official website. It explains in detail what you can expect once you arrive at the hotel — from changes in housekeeping to modified services. By the same token, the MGM resorts have a specific seven-point safety plan you need to follow closely when preparing for the trip.
Overall, you should know that every property has been properly sanitized and cleaned according to the established health and safety measures. Since housekeeping doesn’t occur on a daily basis during the pandemic, the rooms and suites are adequately stocked with all supplies.
If you’d like to go to the spa or swim in the pool, you should be aware that social distancing is practiced there and that you may need to reserve a spot ahead of time. Also, note that masks are required at all times, except when you’re swimming, of course.
Restaurants — Where to Eat?
Due to the pandemic, certain resorts still haven’t opened their restaurants. Therefore, you should remember that some of your go-to places are still closed. However, with Planet Hollywood reopened, Gordon Ramsay Burger fans can make their reservations and eat the mouth-watering burgers created by the seven-Michelin-star Masterchef himself.
Still, even if your favorite fine dining restaurant is closed, you’ll have plenty of standalone options to choose from. Take a walk down the Strip, and you’ll see some outstanding restaurants and eateries with food to die for. Naturally, all safety measures are in place, everyone is maintaining a safe physical distance, and almost every restaurant is offering outdoor dining, which is the best option, given the circumstances.
However, if you’re up for some celebrity signature dishes, we recommend making a reservation in Hell’s Kitchen or Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. Keep in mind that visiting these places without trying steaks, lobster rolls, and sticky toffee pudding might be considered a sin.
On the other hand, if you want a quick bite, we suggest going to The Cosmopolitan Urban Food Hall or In-N-Out Burger. You just need to remember that each of these places is at reduced capacity and respects social distancing measures.
Casinos and Entertainment
What’s a Las Vegas trip without visiting some of the monumental casinos on the Strip? While casinos in Vegas are known for big crowds, people gathered around the tables, and lounges filled with blown away tourists, the reality nowadays is different, just like in hotels and restaurants. Since not all casinos have reopened, those that have, encourage social distancing and follow every protocol to ensure all their visitors are safe.
For example, the Freemont Street Experience casino properties opened their doors months ago. Visitors can still enjoy a game of poker or blackjack, but with a limited number of participants who have to wear masks at all times. Moreover, upon your arrival, the security staff will measure your temperature before allowing you to enter the facility.
As far as the Strip is concerned, some of the most notable names have reopened, such as Bellagio, MGM Grand, Planet Hollywood, New York-New York, The Mirage, etc. Still, there are strict measures all guests need to respect. So, as soon as you enter one of the resorts, you’ll see a Plexiglass separating the staff from the guests. Temperature checks are also conducted, and all the tables on the casino floor have Plexiglass barriers.
While the Vegas experience won’t be the same, it shouldn’t dissuade you from taking a break from worrying about the pandemic and giving yourself a chance to relax and enjoy all the perks only Vegas can offer.
Photo by John Such on Unsplash