Las Vegas

Vegas is where America comes to play – and play hard. Now sprawling out beyond the confines of its famous ‘Strip’, and growing faster than almost any other US city, it’s home to some of the world’s most famous casinos and larger-than-life superhotels – many of them extravagant megaresorts in their own right. Away from the city, you’re within a short drive of much of the south-west’s most spectacular natural scenery.

Must See:
Play the ‘high roller’ and take an Ocean’s 11 pilgrimage to the Bellagio and MGM Grand.

Must eat at:
If you fancy yourself as a bit of a cowboy (or cowgirl, for that matter) head to Charlie Palmer Steak on Las Vegas Boulevard South for a serious slice of stateside beef.

Must be there for:
If you can ignore the lure of the tables, the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in December is a timely reminder that you’re still in the Wild West.

Well-travelled tips:
· If the excitement of the craps tables gets too much for you, head off in search of serenity at Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay – a whole aquarium of soothing, gliding fishies. And sharks.
· Cirque du Soleil might be explosive – but not as explosive as the Atomic Testing Museum... which charts the early days of Nevada’s other famous contribution to the world...

Visa:
British citizens can normally enter the US for business, pleasure or transit using the US Government’s Visa Waiver Program. A range of very specific conditions apply to this programme, and you can find out more here http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/visa/niv/vwp.html

If you intend to travel to the US using the Visa Waiver Program from 12th January 2009, you’ll need to get an electronic travel authorisation before you go. The US Embassy website has more information
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/visa/niv/esta.html