Tom Ludington of Liberty Travel on Las Vegas
From LoveToKnow Travel
What makes Las Vegas a good vacation choice?
"Variety! The vacationer can craft any type of vacation they would like in Vegas. Just organize the amenities and activities that appeal to you, and your ... agent can put together a vacation that will meet or exceed your expectations. There are over 60 golf courses, millions of square feet of retail shopping space, high-end ultra lounges, Broadway-caliber shows, comedy clubs, impersonators, world class spas, wave pools, river pools, European style bathing pools, night clubs, and more restaurants than you can imagine! Add to that, sightseeing options, such as art and history museums, ATV tours, Hoover Dam tours, Grand Canyon tours by helicopter, bus, boat or all three! Oh yes, did I mention gambling? You can do that there too!"
How can vacationers save money on a Las Vegas vacation?
"Vacationers buying land and air packages can usually save money because hotels provide these 'packagers' with preferred rates that are 'bundled' with airfare. There are often 'early booking' bonuses ... so the hotels can fill as many rooms as possible further out. These bonuses include reduced rates, spa credits, food and beverage credits and more. Seasonality is important as well. Be flexible with your dates so you can avoid the high convention periods in the spring and fall, because Vegas is a supply and demand destination where rates change by the week, even by the day. If you can travel mid week, you will save on both your air and your accommodations."
How is a large travel company, such as Liberty Travel, able to help vacationers save money on their Las Vegas travel plans?
"Vacationers take advantage of (Liberty Travel's) preferred rates that large operators (like Liberty) have earned by sending tens of thousands of people to the destination each year. The more people we send, the better our rates are. Additionally, the larger companies know where the 'deals' are. Hoteliers will reach out to us for help to fill need periods at their properties by offering us reduced package rates as well as complimentary amenities, such as dining credits."
What is the best time of year to travel to Las Vegas?
"The weather during the spring and fall seasons are delightful. However, the demand on the hotels from the conventions is high during those times. The best deals and prices can be found in the summer and winter months. Remember, try and schedule your vacation during the middle part of the week (Sunday through Thursday.) The rates are very different, and you won't miss a thing!"
Many Las Vegas vacationers never venture off of the "strip." What are a couple of attractions people visiting Vegas should see, but usually don't?
"The natural beauty of the surrounding areas can be seen from your hotel room and few people venture out to get a close up view. The Red Rock Canyon for instance is just minutes from the strip. It's a 13 mile loop that offers a spectacular 'close up' of the 'red rock' sandstone formations where Native Americans once thrived. You can drive your car there, or buy a tour. The Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon should be on (any) American's 'must see in my lifetime' list. There are a variety of ways to see them including helicopter and raft rides through the canyon on the Colorado River. A Lake Mead dinner cruise is a nice way to get a day away from the glitter and pace of Vegas. The Richard Petty Driving Experience offers several exciting 'hands on' racing experiences at the Las Vegas Motorspeedway!"
What are some things for families to do while in Las Vegas?
"Vegas has focused much of their efforts on attracting adults to the city. The 'What happens here, stays here' campaign says it all. If you are going to bring the family to Vegas, I suggest you concentrate on some of the natural attractions such as the Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, and Lake Mead. You might want to consider staying out in the Henderson area at Lake Las Vegas. (Liberty Travel) offers the Hyatt Lake Las Vegas and The Ritz Carlton Lake Las Vegas.
From there, you can launch your sightseeing tours and spend a day or evening on the strip so everyone can see the 'eye candy' as you tour the world to see Volcano at the Mirage, the Fountains of Bellagio, the Eiffel Tower at Paris, the Pyramid at Luxor, and the New York City skyline of New York, New York. There are several thrill rides throughout the city including three hair raising rides over 1,000 feet above the Las Vegas Strip! Keep in mind that most hotels will charge an additional person fee for kids, even infants."
What's new in Las Vegas?
"There's always something new in Vegas! 'Love', the new Cirque Du Soleil show featuring the music of The Beatles is opening this month at The Mirage is sure to wow fans of both The Beatles and Cirque alike. The Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa opened this spring, off the strip near the famed Red Rock Canyon. The 414 rooms make it a small resort by Vegas standards but is has most everything you could want including a huge spa, well-appointed rooms, plenty of dining options, a night club, and a huge pool area! The second tower is being 'topped off' soon! Lastly, the Las Vegas Monorail has been running for over a year now (in Vegas, it's not new if it's been open for a year!). It's a great way to get up down the strip (and the Convention Center) without the hassle of driving."
How can people planning a Las Vegas vacation contact Liberty Travel for help with their travel plans?
"Consumers can visit any one of the 204 Liberty Travel stores, or visit us on the web at www.libertytravel.com. Our toll free number will connect (you) to the (nearest) store and agent. That number is 1-800-862-1363."
Our thanks to Tom Ludington and to Liberty Travel for their time and good travel advice.
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