Greetings from the U.S.A (Part Two)

 

For those who read Part One, you know I’m well and truly back in Australia. But I’m hanging on to this title because I like to pretend I’m still over in the U.S. – lapping up that glorious sunshine instead of shivering Down Under in grey old Melbourne.

We left off in Part One after a whirlwind tour of the Grand Canyon. Time now for more of those travel tips.

TRAVEL TIP ONE: Stay with friends when you can

 After leaving Las Vegas, we flew to Reno, Yes, many people have said – ‘Why Reno?’ Well, we have a close friend who lives there that I bet you’d all like to adopt.

Roo and Fletch

Roo and Fletch

Andrew, better known as Roo, not only invited our family to stay in his house (he moved out to live with a friend) he lent us his four-wheel drive for exploring AND picked us up and dropped us back at Reno Airport.

He’d also told us about some pretty cool outdoorsy stuff you can do with kids in the area, so proved a fountain of tourist knowledge and tips. Overall, this meant huge savings on hotel and hire car bills, plus he’s damn fine company and showed us around like our own personal tour guide.

Yep, I bet you all want a friend like Roo.

TRAVEL TIP TWO: Go kayaking on Lake Tahoe

On Roo’s advice, we drove his roomy four-wheel drive down to Lake Tahoe after booking a kayaking session with Pat from Great Basin Sports. The booking was made through Travel Zoo at www.travelzoo.com and cost $25 (US) per person. I’d been told Lake Tahoe was one of the most beautiful spots on the planet, and it didn’t disappoint. Crystal clear aquamarine waters lapping at pine-tree edged sandy shores on a sunny day equals  picture-postcard perfect.

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

 

Kayaking can, however, be hazardous with hormonal teenage children. There we were, happily rowing over still waters and remarking on how lucky we were with the weather, when they decided a kayaking race was in order. Hard to draw a finish line on a rippling lake, so before I could say ‘Yogi Bear’, the fighting began. Pat, our kayaking instructor had just been saying, ‘What a lovely family you have,’ when the thrashing and bashing of oars began. Aimed at each other’s heads.

Lethal weapons...

Lethal weapons...

 

Ah, those moments when you’re proud to be a parent… Somehow we managed to stay afloat and no one was killed. Phew.

Maybe it was being out ‘in-the-wild’ that brought out their feral streak, but whatever the reason, we decided drastic action was required to bring them closer together. An experience where they might really feel their lives were in danger and value each other. Hence Travel Tip Number Three.

 

TRAVEL TIP THREE: Take a Hot Air Balloon ride over the Prosser Dam (or the Valley of the Kings in Egypt)

 Fletch and I had already taken a hot air balloon trip in Egypt two years earlier. The basket, carrying about twenty tourists was sturdy, wide and high. I felt completely safe and the experience, sailing over the Valley of the Kings at dawn, along with about a dozen other balloons – was nothing short of magnificent.

Valley of the Kings - Egypt

Valley of the Kings - Egypt

 

Which is really why we booked a second try at hot air ballooning – as well as wanting the kids to enjoy the adrenalin rush and incredible views.

 

Prosser Dam - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Prosser Dam - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

 

So I guess I was expecting a similar experience with Wild Sierra Adventures just out of Reno. We arrived at dawn (after waking at 4am) and the setting was indeed picturesque, with fog gently rising from the Prosser Dam surface.

 

 

But instead of a dozen balloons and an army of officials as there were in Egypt, we found only a small collection of people working on firing up a single balloon. I looked at the tiny basket lying on its side on the ground and shot a look of concern at Fletch.

‘We’re not going up in that tiny thing, are we?’

Yes, we were.

All aboard...

All aboard...

I was alarmed to say the least. I tried to hide my reservations in front of the kids, masking concern with heightened, fake enthusiasm. Fletch seemed unperturbed. When five of us crammed into the basket, there was barely room to turn around and the top of the basket was only just above waist-height, meaning the likelihood of falling out felt like a very real possibility.

Flying high

Flying high

 

But once we were up in the air, floating in a noiseless clear sky, I managed to relax and take in the scenery. A couple of other balloons also popped up out of nowhere, which for whatever reason, reassured me that all was okay.

It’s not cheap – $299 per person – but we figured this was our ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ trip with the kids, and was an experience that would be remembered forever.

I hope that’s how they feel about it too.

 

 

The only other point of difference to our Egypt experience – once you land, you’re expected to help the team pack up the balloon. We had another important date in San Francisco so wished this had been explained to us earlier. Although in terms of learning about ballooning, it did help to make the experience all the more authentic.

On safe ground

On safe ground

 

TRAVL TIP FOUR: Do go to a baseball game in San Francisco

This wasn’t really my idea of fun, but the boys were adamant it was an experience not to be missed. It meant taking a three-hour drive from Reno to San Francisco after the balloon ride, staying one night and then heading home the next afternoon. Still, it also meant seeing the beautiful city of San Francisco, which we hadn’t visited for more than fifteen years, so I agreed.

The Golden Gate Bridge - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

The Bay Bridge - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

 

The AT & T Stadium, or as others call it ‘Pac Bell Park’ or ‘The Phone Booth’ is a sight indeed. Set in the South Beach neighbourhood of San Francisco, it boasts stunning views.

AT & T Stadium, San Francisco - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

AT & T Stadium, San Francisco - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

We were there for a baseball game between the San Francisco Giants and the Cincinatti Reds. I have to say it –  the Americans know how to put on a show.

A colourful crowd

A colourful crowd

 

Games on the sidelines

Games on the sidelines

 

 

 

 

 

 

There was more entertainment from shenanigans between the crowd and sports presenters on the big screen, than there was between players on the field. The AFL should take note – more music, more free giveaways, more entertainment. Half the time I had no idea what was going on, but the vibe was exciting and there was plenty of action. I still don’t know who won. More importantly, Tom (who I’m betting is a future sports presenter) quietly loved the entire experience. And spending time with his new buddy, Roo’s son, Luke.

Luke, Tom and Roo

Luke, Tom and Roo

 

TRAVEL TIP FIVE: Wear a neck brace when flying economy

 When I become a multi-squillionaire, I will always fly first-class. Or at least business. But for now, I’m a cattle girl and on long-haul flights, that’s a test of physical endurance. A few times I’ve been lucky enough to score an upgrade and that is complete heaven. In fact, flight attendants have had to forcibly eject me from my seat on landing because I could happily stay forever. Movies, French champagne, no interruptions from phones or emails, no kids…. (huge sigh)

Travelling with the family meant OF COURSE we were flying economy. Weeks beforehand, I had somehow developed a neck problem – probably from falling asleep on the couch after too many wines with my head bent up my armpit. A diet of anti-inflammatories and pain killers kept me afloat, but my doctor also suggested a neck brace for the many plane trips ahead.

Brace yourself...

Brace yourself...

Yup, it ain’t a pretty look. I really should have invested in some sequins and craft glue, but hey – next time. But the truth of the matter – this ugly device is MUCH better than the regular neck cushions sold in airport travel shops. It only costs around $12 and is sold at most chemists. To be honest, my neck was pretty much recovered about a week into our trip. But I hung on to the neck brace because I learnt on the way over how brilliant it was to ensure a comfortable few hours sleep. You can drop your chin forward and be completely supported. Fantastic! An added bonus is the extra care and attention from sympathetic flight attendants. (Thank you Virgin Australia – you were amazing)

 

 

TRAVEL TIP SIX: Do Visit the Bahamas – but not the Atlantis water park

 Sounnds awfully posh, doesn’t it?
‘Yes, dahhhling, we thought we might jet off to the Bahamas.’

You can just picture the lady in that Imperial soap ad, soaking in a bubble bath and buzzing her husband on the phone ‘George, the Bahamas look nice.’ (I know – it was really Tahiti, but you get it)

 

The Bahamas

The Bahamas

 

That’s not the reason we chose the Bahamas. In fact, our first option was Hawaii as a ‘rest’ point in the holiday on the way home. But the price of tickets was so steep it was ridiculous, so we asked our travel agent, the super efficient Tina Millington,  for an alternative. And guess what? The Bahamas are CHEAPER to visit (once in the U.S.) than Hawaii.

 

 

At this stage in booking our trip, we’d already spent what we considered a small fortune, so more budget-friendly accommodation was a necessity. I had hoped to stay at the Atlantis resort, and I think we may even have had a minor marital dispute when Fletch insisted this was too expensive. He settled on a place called Sunrise Villas in Nassau and from what I had seen on the website, I was less than enthusiastic about what lay in store for us. (I was wrong)

 

Sunrise villas

Sunrise villas

Sunrise Villas was fabulous! I’d have to describe the rooms, with an art deco feel, as comfortable rather than glamorous, but the spaciousness is a huge bonus – plus the fact you even get a tiny laundry. I also loved the fact that you only have to walk up one flight of stairs to be in your apartment instead of queuing in a major hotel for ten minutes each time you need to get up to Floor 35. Much better. Plus the staff were extremely friendly and helpful.

Sunrise Villas also back on to a stunning beach. Again, waters so crystal clear you’d think I’d photo-shopped this picture. (I didn’t!!)

True blue waters

True blue waters - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

 

There’s also a great little bar and restaurant – Viola’s – which attracts many of the locals, and provides entertainment on most nights of the week – whether it be karaoke or a live band.

Atlantis Resort, The Bahamas - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Atlantis Resort, The Bahamas - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

The compromise for NOT staying at the imperious looking Atlantis Resort, was to at least buy a day pass so the kids could enjoy the water park and slides.

No fun in the sun...

No fun in the sun...

 

What a waste of money! The day ended up costing close to $500 and by lunchtime, Tom was bored.

Atlantis resort

Atlantis resort

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The queues for the rides were lengthy, not to mention adults fighting over deckchairs. We found it to be a crass commercial venture which charged  guests for every amenity at any point they could, in return for little joy. I was so relieved we hadn’t ended up staying there. (Yeah, yeah, Fletch was right.)

 

 

Powerboat Adventures

Powerboat Adventures

 

 

A far better option for a family outing was to take a trip with Powerboat Adventures, roaring 38 nautical miles over the sea to Ship Canal Cay. As you approach the island, two boats do a dare-devil criss-cross manoeuvre at high-speed to music blaring out the James Bond theme. Cute.

 

Strolling around the island with the kids in the shallows by the white sand, just soaking up the sun, was my simple idea of paradise.

An island paradise

An island paradise

Others preferred a more adventurous meeting with a bunch of reef sharks…

Meeting the reef sharks

Meeting the reef sharks

 

Ready, set, snorkel

Ready, set, snorkel

 

And then there was the scuba diving. Various groups were taken out on different sessions. Ronnie and I did it once each – the boys, probably three or four.

Marine life

Marine life

 

 

 

 

The tour company also sell underwater cameras so you can capture the marine life for yourself.

 

 

 

 

 

TRAVEL TIP SEVEN: Pack lots of chargers and converter plugs

It’s a guilty parental admission, but true. I-phones and electronic games help pass the time and prevent sibling rows when in long queues at airports or trips in the car. If you’re going to rely on them, make sure you pack plenty of charging devices and converter plugs. This will prevent many arguments over who has charging priority and ensure a much more peaceful journey.

 

Travel Essentials

Travel Essentials

 

 

TRAVEL TIP EIGHT:  Only spend ONE day at a theme park

After the Bahamas, we headed to Orlando. A major reason – to visit a theme park with the kids. Originally we’d thought we would take them to Disneyland when they were ten and twelve, but time slipped by and it never happened. That’s the funny thing about kids – they grow so damn quickly. So now, being 14 and 17, priorities had changed.

Veronica is a devoted Harry Potter fan and was especially keen to visit ‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ at Universal Studios, so the choice about which theme park was easy. We even splashed out to buy ‘V.I.P tickets’ which means by-passing most of the long queues. A great decision and well-worth the money.

Wanting to make the most out of our ‘one day’, we arrived at about 7.45am. First stop – Harry Potter World.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Ronnie at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

 

A Butter Beer mo-ment

A Butter Beer mo-ment

 

Ronnie was in seventh heaven – did all the rides, met a Hogwarts train conductor and couldn’t wait to sample a pint of Butter Beer. (non-alcoholic of course)

 

 

 

 

 

Incredible Hulk roller coaster

Incredible Hulk roller coaster

 

 

I was a brave Mumma and went on all the scary rides, including the Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster AND the Fear Fall drop!!!

Fear Fall

Fear Fall

 

 

 

The most disappointing ride was the ET experience. It was so lame, it left Tom in fits of laughter. I was mortified my director hero, Steven Spielberg, had videoed a personal welcome to the ride. Maybe that was a decade ago? He needs to take another look at how much this has dated and what a waste of time it is. Such a special film deserves a better tribute. I really felt for the families who were queueing for forty minutes.

 

At the day’s end, we’d covered a vast amount of ground, walking from one ‘land’ to another. We’d done every ride on our list and overall, had a fantastic fun and laughter-packed day.  By this stage it was nearly 7pm. We’d been there for ELEVEN HOURS. I was beat. Delerious, more like it. At the end of our marathon stint, I practically needed to be carried home. So I promise you, you will only want to do ONE DAY at a theme park.

Carry me home

Carry me home

 

 

TRAVEL TIP NINE: Do not stay at the Enclave Hotel in Orlando

We only had one truly bad experience when it came to hotels on our trip. And this was it. The Enclave Hotel looks okay on the website, but once inside your room, the cracks are pretty obvious.

 

Not what it was cracked up to be...

Not what it was cracked up to be...

 

We knew it was a budget hotel, but thought, as we’d be spending most of our time in the theme park, that it wouldn’t really matter. But it did. I felt like I was staying in a toilet.

 

Entrance to hotel room

Entrance to hotel room

 

It wasn’t only the look of the place that was revolting. Every time the guest next door flushed their toilet, it felt like an earthquake was ripping through the plumbing. That, combined with the noise from a train-engine-clanking air conditioning system, meant sleep was out of the question without chemical assistance.

Oh, and the ‘complimentary’ breakfast that came with the deal? Completely inedible.

Two words. NEVER AGAIN.

 

 TRAVEL TIP TEN: Play Paddle Tennis at Venice Beach

From Orlando to Hollywood, we had four nights in Los Angeles to wrap up our U.S.A trip. A visit to Venice beach is an entertaining must. There’s ‘Muscle Beach’ where Arnold Schwarzanegger was discovered, and many a decent set of biceps is on display, belonging to someone hoping to likewise be ‘discovered.’

Muscle Beach at Venice Beach

Muscle Beach at Venice Beach

 

Muscle beach

Muscle beach

 

 

 

 

 

 

The passing parade of eccentrics, musicians, skate-boarders and touts makes for a fascinating spectacle. But the thing that caught our sport-loving son’s eye was not the Medical Marijuana Doctor passing out his business card, (relieved sigh)  but the games of ‘Paddle Tennis’ being played on mini-courts. We didn’t have the right footwear, but opted to give it a shot anyway – barefoot.

Paddle Tennis at Venice Beach

Paddle Tennis at Venice Beach

 

Tom beat all three of us, but by the time he was done, even he – with his addiction to ball sports –  had had enough.

 

Game over - victory!

Game over - victory!

 

TRAVEL TIP ELEVEN: Do take your photo in front of the Hollywood sign

 

Hollywood calling...

Hollywood calling...

 

I know, it’s corny, but ya gotta do it. And look, it even made Ronnie smile!

Our Hollywood star

Our Hollywood star

 

Yep, we’d all got along pretty well for three weeks, but right at the end, the siblings started to rile each other just a tad. On our second last day, Tom decided to film Ronnie for a 24-hour period to show her exactly how grumpy she was. And there’s nothing guaranteed to make anyone MORE grumpy than they already are, than having a camera shoved up their nose 24-7.

But despite those clashes, I’d have to say overall, it was a brilliant, once-in-a-lifetime trip. In hindsight, I don’t think I’d even change our hectic schedule. But I probably would agree with this sign we spotted as we passed out the gates at Universal Studios.

 

THE END

THE END

 

 

 

 

 

VEGAS FASHION – TO BLING AND BLACK

 

Given this recent trip (featured in the Opinion section) was a family affair, I knew I’d be spending less time trawling fashion stores than I usually do when travelling child-free. But in Vegas, Ronnie and I racked up a few kilometers in the heat – which wasn’t so hard given that most of Vegas’ prime shopping is set up indoors in uber-glamorous shopping centres.

In this modern era of globalization and chain stores, most of the fashion is the same in every major city in the world. Except that the high-end stores will be a season ahead of their counterparts in Australia.

One chain store I was delighted to come across was the English label All Saints. It’s a favorite if we’re in the UK and one chain store that has yet to reach Aussie shores.

All Saints

All Saints

The Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan

 

All Saints is part of the Cosmopolitan Shopping Centre (attached to the hotel of the same name) along the main strip of Vegas. It’s more famous for it’s glitzy Chandelier Bar than the shopping, but it’s still got a decent enough selection of stores to make it worth a visit.

 

All Saints exterior

All Saints exterior

 

 

Being in Vegas, I was naturally drawn to the ‘bling’ factor – and All Saints had plenty of it.

 

 

 

 

 

Embellished Pipail dress

Embellished Pipail dress

 

 

 

From this‘Embellished Pipail Dress for $495 (US) ….

 

 

 

 

 

 

…to several other sequined numbers – selling for slightly less.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I tried a couple on, but was having a ‘fat day’ so put them back on the racks.

Beckley

Beckley

 

Beckley at the Cosmopolitan was another find – although they wouldn’t permit photos inside. Their fashion range is fab – featuring designs from Zac Posen, Herve Leger, Opening Ceremony, Cut 25 and Vivienne Westwood.

Moving on to Caesar’s Shopping Centre, there were more of the high-end chain stores – such as Jimmy Choo and Burberry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After being saturated in sequins, I was instantly drawn to something rarely spied in Vegas – PLAIN BLACK FASHION – a feature of Burberry’s new winter range. A true Melburnian, I was naturally drawn to the dark side….

Black Burberry bag

Black Burberry bag

 

 

 

 

 

Black Burberry boots

Black Burberry boots

 

 

But I couldn’t afford the four-figure price tags. We’d just taken a chopper ride over the Grand Canyon after all. I could but yearn…

 

 

So then Ronnie and I ducked over to The Boulevard Mall – an outlet shopping centre at 3528 S. Maryland Pkwy for something more in our price range. The Boulevard has a great range of discount stores as well as sporting goods shops – excellent for buying nephews caps featuring logos from their favorite US baseball team.

Ronnie scored some cute denim shorts and a couple of t-shirts, while I picked out a couple of fluro striped singlets for a mere $4.50 each. Now that’s what I call a bargain.

 

 

SHOULD NATALIE COOK CARRY THE FLAG?

I’m all for a woman carrying the Aussie flag at the Olympics opening ceremony. After four blokes being granted the honour in a row, it’s definitely time. So I don’t mind that beach volleyball champ Natalie Cook has kicked up a stink about the whole palaver. Some now say her comments were in jest, but that hasn’t stopped plenty of commentators giving her a serve for daring to raise the issue.

While I agree that the privilege  should be given to the most deserving athlete regardless of sex, I still believe that puts Natalie in the running. And I think it’s important the role has become a matter of public debate. Because women in sport have been given the short end of the stick for too long. Not just at the Olympics, but in terms of publicity, media coverage, sponsorship and accolades in general for decades.

Just look at what happened to Australia’s women basketballers, flying to London?They were shoved in economy while their male counterparts were lying back, lapping up the luxury of business class. Who made that decision and why? It surely couldn’t be based on a matter of size. Star player Elizabeth Cambage is 203cm tall so that’s clearly not an issue.

When I worked in television news, there were frequently arguments about the lack of female sporting competition in the nightly sports bulletin. Often viewers would ring and complain that a major netball match had been won by the Aussie team, but not a mention was made on the news. Producers would say that the public wasn’t interested – that not enough people attended the matches – and if they weren’t popular, we couldn’t justify airing results or highlights from these games.

As far as I could see, it was a classic chicken and egg situation. How are you going to get people interested in the first place if you don’t show them what they’re missing out on? And if we don’t make a bit of a fuss about our best female athletes, then how are we going to encourage young women to achieve in sport?

While overseas, I was particularly impressed with a TV ad campaign that’s currently screening in the U.S. encouraging young women to stick with their sporting interests at school and beyond. At age 14, girls drop out of sports at TWICE the rate boys do. ‘Keep Her In The Game’ spells out the over-whelming impact our magazine and image-obsessed culture has on young women – driving them to care more about make-up and high heels than enjoying the freedom of kicking a ball in a field with friends. The ad shows the girls turning their backs on a sports field and being transformed as they walk, from fresh-faced fun-lovers to over-painted, posturing pseudo-models.

The ad is produced by the Women’s Sports Foundation – originally founded by Billie Jean King. And it’s got people talking. I’m not saying teenagers shouldn’t like make-up and heels. It’s just that we need a balance. And if women played sport for longer, they’d likely improve not only their long-term fitness, more importantly, their self-esteem.

The media often vilifies magazines for causing eating disorders – using  models that are too skinny and too much air-brushing – perpetuating unattainable images. Instead of talking about what we SHOULDN”T be doing, how about focusing on something else completely – successful women in sport – to give girls something else to think about and aspire to?

Maybe Minister for Sport Kate Lundy could start up a similar ad campaign to ‘Keep Her In The Game’? Come on Kate, jump on board! Even if we don’t have a woman carrying the Aussie flag at the Olympics this year, let’s do something for women in sport for the long-haul. But I’m still hoping Natalie does win the honour and I’ll be cheering like crazy if she leads out our team in front of the rest of the world.

 

 

 

 

Minxies – The Newest Trend in Nail Art

In keeping with the travelling theme of this week’s blog post, let’s look at a beauty tip for your next holiday. Chances are you don’t want to spend time on maintenance while away, and if you’re going somewhere in the sun, your toes will be on show so you might opt for a pedicure before leaving.

The best way to keep your feet sparkling for the longest time is to invest in some MINXIES. They look like a high-end brand of ultra-shiny nail polish, but in fact they’re foils that are cut from a special sheet of paper and applied with a heating device to your toenails.

A huge plus about Minxies versus regular nail polish is that they last between 4 – 6 weeks on your toes, and about two weeks on your fingers. Personally, I only have them applied to toenails because fingernail re-growth is faster and I don’t have the time, money or inclination to visit the salon that often.

Minxies for your toes

Minxies for your toes

 

Here’s how they look in a promo shot:

 

 

 

 

 

And here’s how they look on regular feet. (i.e. – mine) Not so glamorous, but proof even the knobbliest of feet do look better with Minxies.

My toenails...

My toenails...

 


Zebra minxies

Zebra Minxies

 

 

 

Minxies are now available at many nail salons around the country and come ins a variety of patterns and colours. Yes, you can even get a zebra print…

 

 

Yellow on silver Minx

Yellow on silver Minx

 

 

 

 

 

Personally, I like to stick to a simple metallic, plain gold or silver.  Although I did see a new design – silver and yellow – which brought to mind Seal’s famous yellow nails from The Voice and I suddenly had an urge to try something new…

 

If you’d like to see more designs, check out the Minx website at www.minxnails.com

For Melbourne girls, my tip for the best salon working with Minx is Ripponlea Nail Shop at 32 Glen Eira Road, Ripponlea.

Ph: (03) 9528 5740

The lovely Melanie Lachal is the salon owner and an expert in the art of Minx.

Melanie Lachal

Melanie Lachal

The cost is $50, which is quite economical given it lasts on the toes for as long as it does.

Another bonus about this product is you can’t smudge your nails once you leave the salon. Shoes can be worn almost immediately, making Minx a much more practical option than nail polish. Let’s face it, anything that saves time is a huge plus for most women leading hectic lives, trying to maintain careers, families AND appearances. If it’s simple, fast, economical and looks good, it wins my vote.

 

 

Greetings from the U.S.A. (Part One)

The title to this piece is an outright lie. I am definitely no longer in the U.S.A. I am back home in Melbourne, adjusting to the cooler climate and trying to beat a rotten cold. (If there were a tissue-throwing event in the Olympics, I’d score gold.) But I thought I’d leave the title in place, because I originally typed it three weeks ago with the very best of intentions.

There’s a massive problem that comes with being a Blogger. You only have to answer to yourself and I’m not a very strict boss. I had a wildly ambitious notion that I’d blog madly while we were away, but trips aboard aren’t an everyday occurrence for us, and I was quite ignorant of how time-consuming playing tourist (with two teenage children) can be.

So I decided to give myself a break and enjoy the trip we’d saved so long and hard for and deal with the blogging dilemma on my return.

After a day’s consideration, here’s what I’ve decided to do. First up, let me assure you this will not be an on-going travel blog and opinion pieces about topical issues will follow. However, I am going to relate a couple of travel experiences – but only the quirky or major stuff that may be of interest to you. (in case you’re also planning to venture to the U.S. in the near future.) It’s also a chance to show-off some pretty amazing shots taken by Fletch, who never tires in his quest for extraordinary photographic achievement.

Instead of a TRAVEL BLOG, which will turn you away in droves, let’s call this a TRAVEL TIPS piece. (still with me?)

TRAVEL TIP ONE – DO visit Las Vegas   

The famous 'Welcome to Las Vegas' sign at the city's entrance

The famous ‘Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign at the city’s entrance – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

 

First stop for us was Las Vegas. I’d been twice before and should have learnt my lesson. Each visit was the same. Vegas sucks up time like it inhales the dollar bills out of your purse. It’s a city where strange and unpredictable adventures happen; where you lose all sense of the hours ticking by so that a plan to be in bed by eleven pm means you won’t get there till at least three. (Another reason I didn’t post a Blog there…)

The bright lights of Vegas

The bright lights of Vegas – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Las Vegas is also a city that seems to divide people more strongly than any other. You either love it or hate it. Fletch is not a huge fan. He describes it as, ‘A testament to over-indulgence and consumerism.’ Me – I’m a lover, not a hater. I’m naturally drawn to this beguiling seductress with all her bright lights, glittering jewels and tawdry trimmings. The first time I went, I berated others for not telling me earlier of the fun to be had.

 

It’s not the gambling that lures me. That’s one vice I don’t have. But I do love the energy in

The Bellagio Fountains - ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

The Bellagio Fountains – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Vegas. Most people are there to have a good time. The charge in the air is electric. There’s an exuberance generated in the streets from shrieking party groups passing Elvis impersonators and leggy show-girls to the raucous chanting from tipsy wedding clusters and gasps of awe from tourists watching the magnificent swish and swirl of the Bellagio fountains for the first time.

It’s a circus of colour and motion: gilt-mirrored hotels shimmer under the dry heat, neon signs shout out famous buildings, an up-tempo beat beckons from tequila bars and dueling pianos while advertising blares from giant video screens that cover towering high-rises.

And it’s all about size. There’s tacky mini-versions of every famous world attraction from the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building to the Sphinx, while small commercial icons, such as the Coke bottle, guitars and motor-bikes become celebrated, giant-sized versions of their original selves.


Giant Harley Davidson motorbike

Giant Harley Davidson    motorbike – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Hard Rock Cafe giant guitar

Hard Rock Cafe giant guitar

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our arrival, however, was no cause for celebration. Our flight had left us drained and sleep-deprived. Veronica had been horribly ill throughout most of the flight. We knew she occasionally suffered from travel sickness, but the on going vomiting that continued, soon made it evident the cause was likely something stronger. We flew Virgin Australia and I have nothing but praise for the wonderful staff who helped us through this ordeal without ever flinching. Sympathy, warm cloths and water were always on hand with a gentle touch.

But you can imagine that after a three hour flight from Melbourne to Brisbane, a fifteen hour flight to Los Angeles and then a one -hour flight to Vegas, plus all the vomiting and no sleep, all we wanted was to get to our hotel room and collapse. Especially Veronica.

We arrived at the Platinum Hotel (a smaller off-strip hotel) just after midday, only to find our suite wasn’t going to be ready for us until 4pm. WHAT??

TRAVEL TIP TWO: Check your hotel check-in time before arrival.

Most hotels in Vegas have a 4pm check in time. This is because most people get to bed REALLY late and want a late check out. We had assumed it would be a 1 – 2pm check-in like most hotels have in Australia. Wrong.

Devastating news. All we could do was unpack a few items (bathers and shorts) unceremoniously on the floor of the hotel bar, change clothes in the foyer restrooms and then make our way poolside to fall comatose into cane chairs until we were allowed in to our rooms.

No room at the inn...

No room at the inn…

 

The pic of Fletch and Ronnie says it all. And we hadn’t even started. Welcome to Vegas.

TRAVEL TIP THREE: Visit an Oxygen Bar in Las Vegas to boost energy

After a night out with some girlfriends who, by good fortune, just happened to be in Vegas at the same time as me, the next day’s sightseeing was taking its toll. Tom and I were wandering through the Grand Canal shops of the Venetian and my energy was flagging – despite the impressive view.

Grand Canal shops

Grand Canal shops – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Then I spied an Oxygen Bar. I’d heard about them but have never come across them in Australia. I know there are mixed reports about the benefits of inhaling oxygen, but I decided to give it a go so I could decide for myself. Anything for an energy boost… After checking it was safe for younger people, Tom – who was much more cynical about the whole concept – also decided to attach the tubes.

Tom tries out the Oxygen Bar

Tom tries out the Oxygen Bar

I felt great initially afterwards, but the feeling of improved energy didn’t last for too long. Tom ridiculed the whole notion and said he felt absolutely no different. But I managed to stay awake longer that evening and felt it really did seem to help jet lag issues. Although you could put that extra zing in my step down to the liquid energy shot in a mini-bottle the attendants serve up. And that’s something I didn’t allow Tom to have… Yep, I guess this is an experience you’ll just have to try for yourself.

The tubes are more comfortable than they look

The tubes are more comfortable than they look

 

 

A more impressive aspect of the Oxygen Bar was the mini-massage machine which they attach with small pads on wires to your back or neck while sitting there inhaling the oxygen.

Tom and I both thought this was fantastic. As I was suffering from neck issues, I bought a machine and it helped enormously throughout our trip. It’s very compact and at full-charge, can give up to 125 hours of massage in all varying rhythms and intensity.

 

Massage machine

Massage machine

 

 

It costs about $100 – depending on which Oxygen bar you buy it from. But it makes a great travel companion when flying as it’s practically noiseless and will soothe away the aches and pains every traveller suffers from – whether they be from walking long distances or having to  travel economy. (like us)

Las Vegas Airport Oxygen Bar

Las Vegas Airport Oxygen Bar

 

 

 

 

The Oxygen Bar concept is obviously popular, as we also came across one at the Las Vegas airport. So if you get to your gate lounge early enough, you can pep yourself up with a quick fifteen minute oxygen session before boarding your flight.

 

 

 

TRAVEL TIP FOUR: Do see Celine Dion in concert

 I can hear most of you thinking, ‘Ewww… seriously??’ A friend who’d seen Celine in Vegas (and he’s a regular Aussie ‘bloke’) said that it was the best concert he’d ever experienced. That made me think twice. Plus Veronica is studying singing and performs two songs that Celine sings, so we thought it would be worthwhile checking out. And it was.

Making our way into the Celine Dion concert in Vegas

Making our way into the Celine Dion concert in Vegas

 

I’d agree it was definitely one of the best concerts I’ve ever seen. The staging at the Colosseum theatre at Caesar’s is phenomenal and Celine’s voice, so pure, she puts angels to shame. Backed by a full orchestra and with her musical director of twenty years, Celine packs the show full of hits plus some offbeat numbers. In one song she performs alongside a holographic image of Stevie Wonder that looks so real, it’s hard to believe the man himself is not actually up on stage.

 

TRAVEL TIP FIVE: Sing karaoke at the legendary Ellis Island Bar in Las Vegas

From the sublime to the ridiculous – from Celine at Caesar’s, to watching Vinnie the Elvis

Ellis Island bar

Ellis Island bar

impersonator perform at the cheapest beer joint in town. But if you want a full Vegas experience, you have to check out Ellis Island. It’s a down-to-earth basic bar that offers karaoke seven nights a week and attracts all types. It’s also a refreshing change from the glitz of main strip Vegas and gives you a chance to meet some of the locals. Fletch and I both took to the microphone which was daunting but fun. Easier for Fletch being a singer who had the crowd in the palm of his hand, despite me making him sing the most obvious of numbers, ‘Viva Las Vegas.’

But the uplifting moment of the night came when local regular at the hotel – Vinnie, the Elvis

Vinnie, Elvis impersonator

Vinnie, Elvis impersonator

impersonator – got up to sing. At 70-years-old, it’s pretty clear why he doesn’t perform at many weddings any more, but the enthusiastic response from locals was heart-warming. Vinnie has become an institution at Ellis Island and it’s great that he still wins support from a loyal following. We were told Vinnie suffered a stroke a while back but still sings at the bar almost every night.

Ellis Island is at 4178 Koval Lane, on Flamingo Road.

 

TRAVEL TIP SIX: Visit the Neon Boneyard

Who would have thought that scrap metal and broken light bulbs would qualify as art? But art it is, and the Neon Boneyard in Vegas is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Neon lights are, after all, the essence of this town. Huge money and design skills are invested in these pieces, which, over time, become hailed as iconic art forms.

The Neon Bonyard

The Neon Bonyard

The Boneyard is located on Las Vegas Boulevard and Bonanza – about half an hour away from the main strip. If you take part in a group tour, it costs $20 per person, but it’s advisable to book because it’s so popular – especially during the holiday season.

Sassy Sally

Sassy Sally sign – ©PHOTO: Alan Fletcher

Jerry's Nugget and Horseshoe sign

Jerry’s Nugget and Horseshoe sign

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There’s about 150 pieces from the 1930s to the early 90s – mostly from celebrated hotels, casinos and restaurants, such as Treasure Island, the Moulin Rouge, Stardust and Flamingo hotels. Our tour guide was hilarious and did a great job keeping everyone entertained with stories about criminal activity, murders and infidelity associated with the hotels and gambling – all a part of Vegas’ colourful past.

There’s the iconic Aladdin’s Lamp – originally installed at the Aladdin Hotel in 1966, then came to rest in the Boneyard in 1997.

Aladdin's Lamp

Aladdin’s Lamp

And outside the Neon Boneyard, the famous Silver Slipper twinkles in pride of place on the median strip.

The Slipper from the Silver Slipper Casino

The Slipper from the Silver Slipper Casino

The slipper used to rotate above the Silver Slipper Casino which opened in 1950. Folklore has it that tycoon Howard Hughes was staying in a hotel opposite and was under the paranoid delusion that a camera was planted in the slipper and every time it spun in his direction, he was being spied upon by the government. So he bought the hotel for a cool $5.4 million and promptly had the evil slipper dismantled.

I’m also rather fond of the metal Mullet Man who used to flag the entrance to a pool hall.

Mullet man

Mullet man

 

Not to mention the China Garden Café girl who actually comes from Utah. Could this be a match made in Boneyard heaven?

China Garden Cafe girl

China Garden Cafe girl

The oldest of the them all is the ‘Cocktails, Steak and Chicken’ sign from the Green Shack Café, built in 1930. It marked the longest-running restaurant in Vegas that didn’t shut its doors till 1999. Now a Denny’s restaurant stands in its place…

Cocktails, Steak and Chicken

Cocktails, Steak and Chicken

And while this might be the final resting place for neon art forms that some call junk, it also means over time, they’ll be restored and brought to life again, so that all who visit can learn about Vegas’ rich history.

TRAVEL TIP SEVEN: DO take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon

 It’s pricey, but if you’re going to travel all the way to the U.S. try to save up the extra cash for this indulgence. It’s mind-blowing and is one experience you’ll remember forever. A definite bucket-lister. We flew with a company called Maverick and they run a slick operation.

Maverick Aviation Group

Maverick Aviation Group

A light-plane ride of about half an hour took us to the Grand Canyon where we boarded a chopper that took us on a sweeping journey over about a quarter of the vast rocky expanse.

All aboard...

I’m not going to bore you with all the stats about the place, but you’ll get an impressive rundown from your pilot. Fletch was pretty happy with such an incredible birds-eye view for taking photos.

A birds-eye view

 

The South Rim

 

 

After the chopper ride, a bus takes you to the South Rim where you’re handed a picnic box. You can then wander about, soaking up the majestic views and checking out local craft and tourism shops.

 

 

 

 

Dangerous beasts lurk in the bushes...

 

But beware while eating lunch… Dangerous pests lurk in the bushes ready to pounce. Seriously though, we were warned these squirrels have a sharp bite and it’s best not to feed them – especially placing fingers within striking range.

 

 

While exploring, I took a shine to Buckley O’Neill’s cabin – the oldest surviving structure in the Canyon – which still takes guests. It was built in the 1890s, when O’Neill found tourism earnt him more than mining. I was keen to set up camp for the night, but sadly, it didn’t fit into our schedule.

Buckley O'Neill's Cabin

Buckley O’Neill’s Cabin

After about an hour of walking and talking photos, we hopped on the plane to head home. Definitely a place to return to and see more of. One day…

 

(PART TWO OF ‘GREETINGS FROM THE U.S.A.’ COMING SHORTLY)