Las Vegas
I recently had the opportunity to go to Las Vegas for a tech conference for work called Cisco Live. Hard to say no to a free flight and hotel and meals - on a trip to a fun destination.
The conference itself was enormous. Thousands of people from all over the country, many from other parts of the world. Huge masses of people everywhere, especially the conference, but also Vegas itself.
I went out every evening, trying to fit in as many interesting experiences as possible. My list of "want to do"s was pretty long, so I wasn't able to do everything.
Of course my first meal was from In-N-Out Burger. I've always heard about this place, but we don't have them where I live.
Being a Coke lover, I went to the Coca-Cola Store. I was particularly interested in trying drinks from their concession counter: you can order a tray to sample 16 different Coca-Cola soft drinks from around the world. I think their offerings might change on a regular basis.
I stayed in the Luxor Pyramid. I had like five different options, but I chose the Pyramid because I like Egyptian history and culture. Also the conference was held next door at Mandalay Bay, so it wasn't too far to walk there.
I was able to get seated right away at Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen.
I ordered the prie fixe: choice of beet salad or scallops, beef wellington with root vegetables, sticky toffee pudding. I chose beet salad.
That pudding was so so sweet, wow. I couldn't finish it, mostly because I was so full. But it was very sweet, and everything was good.
This makes the third Gordon Ramsay restaurant I've been to! I didn't set out to try a bunch of them, but here we are!
Halfway through the trip, Cisco had a type of party: Cisco Live! Celebration. It was held at Allegiant Stadium - we were given free hats as we entered.
We could choose anywhere we wanted to sit or stand, on the field or in the stands. There were employees milling about handing out free candy, hot dogs, beer, soft drinks. Then later there was more beer, pizza, nachos, all sorts of good food and drink - for free.
The main event was a concert: this year was Gwen Stefani, and Blake Shelton. Neither are music I'd listen to on purpose, but I enjoyed the concert. Blake in particular had good crowd work. Especially compared to the weird crowd work that Gwen did.
On my last night in Vegas, I had tickets for Cirque du Soleil "O" - which I heard from two different Uber drivers was the best one. Apparently I chose well.
It was a great performance - very funny and engaging. I definitely recommend seeing it. Ask me about where to sit if you go.
I had a great time, and I've discovered that I love to fly. It was interesting to attend a tech conference of that scale, and to go on a solo trip. No one from work, no Jenna or friends or family.
That part was weird, but I'm glad I had that experience.
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