It wasn't an early start, but it was much cooler so touring the strip during the day was an option. After meeting Claire and Andrew and having a drink it was almost time to get dressed for going out for the evening.
The plan was to find some of the nightlife that Las Vegas is susposed to have. To keep costs down we had been going to the cheaper casinos where the drinks are heavily reduced to keep the punters in. Reading the what's on in Vegas they have lots of very interesting club type places. The tricky bit was finding somewhere that doesn't cost. Coyote Ugly was one of the few free places that looked good and fitted the bill.
To fill the gap we wanted to see some more of the sights on the strip but also juggle visits to cheap casinos for drinks. Bellagio was first due to free tram then Bills casino was next for the cheap drinks and a rather tacky Elvis performer that made you want to slit your wrists. After a food stop we were across the road from the Mirage and the volcano attraction. This was OK lots of fire explosions. The Venetion was next that had gondalas within a themed Venice, another good example of the Vegas themed universe.
This took us close to the hour and treasure islands chance to impress with it's pirate show. Being America this took the form of scantily clad female pirates having a boat battle with male pirates and some pyrotechnics chucked in for good measure. The story line was created by a five year old, hence the reason for the bare flesh.
Caesars Palace was next, it is amazingly big and lavish, with columns and statues everywhere and maps to help you navigate.
What saves Vegas from being tacky is the level they go to impress, unfortunately you need money to see it at it's best. The general concensus with Americans is to see it but not to spend too long here. Vegas is like being in the Truman Show it is nice but eventually you want to break free from the fasade.