Mappin Monday - Vegas

This Mappin' Monday, a trip to Vegas is in the cards...

Since we have been many times over the years, we can give you the scoop, from hotels on the strip to Old Vegas and most places in between. So this week, we're gonna give you a list of the best places we've stayed and the worst things we've seen, as well as some general reviews.

Vegas is a lot. It overloads every one of your senses, and I would say 3 or 4 nights is PLENTY for most people. We've been there up to 8 nights, which as it turns out, is TOO MUCH VEGAS for us!

In recent years, with the strip being changed into a raceway, crossing the street has become a bit of an ordeal. What I am saying is: bring your walking shoes! You'll be going up and down escalators and staircases and elevators all day.

Must sees on the strip? Nighttime Bellagio watershow. There is something so universal about seeing the water flow and hearing the whoosh of the water cannons. People from all over the world, standing side by side, enjoying together.

Bad weather tip: We love to walk into the Luxor and look around, and the indoor mall area that connects Excalibur, Luxor, and Mandalay Bay can keep you occupied for an entire day, if the weather isn't cooperating. We've used this trick when we had a rainy Vegas Day and were pleased with how much there was to do and see, Including the time we ran into several players from the New York Rangers who were staying at the Mandalay Bay.

Pawnstars: Don't do it. Not only did my wallet get stolen there and my sister had to overnight me my passport to go home, but it was in a shady area that is not easily accessible and the store was the size of a shoebox. And they kept a line outside and would close every few hours for filming. Sidenote: Chumlee worked there then and crossed the parking lot when I was crying because my wallet had just been stolen. He was NOT impressed and walked past me mumbling some not nice things about me- to be fair, it was not a shining moment for me, but still... #Truestory 

Old Vegas is nice, but the people are a little intense in that area. More of a daytime visit for us! Though the nighttime overhead screen is a thing to behold!

The High Roller Observation Wheel (The big Ferris-Wheel thingy) was fun, though it was a little like looking out of a hotel window, and once you're on, there's no getting off.

The monorail is a win for longer walks when going up and down the strip. Uber is always readily available. Taxis galore. Transportation is a cinch. Or rent a crazy car for the day- so many people do!

Helicopter tours are amazing, but $$$$ so be aware.

Hoover Dam tours are an all day affair, make sure you've scheduled your time correctly.

Vegas food ranges from sketchy to 5 stars, so pick wisely.

In Las Vegas, shows can be costly- be sure they are in your budget! The bigger the name, the bigger the price tag.

When you're planning your Next Vegas Vacation, give us a shout! We've got the inside scoop!