Solvency provision has been the hot topic of the profession for several years now across the globe. However,  this month Traveling Actuary, Eve Hartridge visits that famous city in the middle of the desert blatantly sticking its “fabulous” sequined head in the sand over the credit crunch… where else but LasVegas!
One thing I’ve learnt over the last decade of working with actuaries is that gambling and the actuarial profession goes hand in hand. It’s logical, I guess; the ultimate game of chance or risk management. From experience the profession is one that either people haven’t heard of or they give that knowing look of “poor you, that must be very dull”. But what they fail to realise is insurance is never dull! It can never be; it never stands still long enough,and neither does Vegas. So, when I hear of someone heading out to the Poker World Series, or a contractor taking some time out to be a professional blackjack player,I like it; actuaries really are edgy,after all!
Gambling aside, there is an awful lot to see and do in Las Vegas. Everything is big, everything is excessive, and I personally don’t think that a long weekend is quite long enough. Indeed, someone once described Vegas as ‘Disneyland for grown-ups’, and this ride is one you won’t want to get off.
Where to Stay:
The Las Vegas strip is home to some of the most famous and ostentatious hotels in the world, so picking a favourite isn’t easy; it’s like asking someone to choose just one Elvis record. Lions, tigers, musical fountains, rollercoaster’s, even the Statue of Liberty, it’s all there! However, choose one must, and Caesar’s Palace is one of the oldest and most famous along the strip, is right in the centre, and is a perfect choice. When in Vegas go all out and book into one of the “Rainman suites”; the views are simply spectacular and the inspiration for the suite featured in the hit movie, “The Hangover”.
The hotel’s Qua Spa is well worth a visit too, although it’s worth noting that in keeping with Roman tradition the spa is divided into male and female only sections - perfect to indulge in some “me” time. Decadence is heavy in the air here and I would thoroughly recommend the shiatsu massage; 60 minutes of tranquility in this oasis of calm is just about enough to switch off from the chaos outside the spa doors.
The Casino at Caesar’s Palace is also one of the best on the strip, and in keeping with tradition there are no clocks and no daylight; time and light have no meaning here. The gaming floor has something for everyone, from the 25-cent slot machines for nervous first timers to million dollar buy-in private rooms for pro’s. It seems rude not to honour the institution that is Caesar’s Palace without having a quick flutter.
What to See:
I do wonder if Las Vegas will ever tire of Cirque Du Soliel, with some of these shows running for more than a decade. However, “O” at the Bellagio has to be seen to be believed. The acrobatic stunts are amazing, as is the 1.5 million gallon dive pool- that’s all I’ll say, go see.
“Love” at the Mirage was the second Cirque Du Soliel offering – a more light hearted and accessible production by the awe-inspiring team using the music of The Beatles. For Brits raised on the Fab Four, this shouldn’t be missed either.
Finally, when in Vegas, and all that, one should indulge in something a bit naughty. A little further down the strip you’ll come to Planet Hollywood - home to “Peep Show”, starring Holly Madison, the famous ex-girlfriend of Hugh Hefner and reality show favourite. This show is a surprisingly charming, thrilling introduction into the burlesque phenomenon.
Where to Eat:
Fine dining is excellent at Caesar’s, and it’s worth making a booking at Guy Savoy and Rao’s The Italian restaurant during your stay. For a touch of real Vegas check into “Hooters” just off the strip for beer and ribs but for something totally different stay in the cab until you reach the “Hofbrauhaus”. In the city where you can have lunch in St Mark’s Square or on the top of the Eiffel Tower, it stands to reason that every night of the week can be Oktoberfest too. Take it all in, the beer the pretzels, and even the Oompa band; only in Vegas!
Where to Shop:
The convenience of a shopping mall is great; all the brands you look for under one air-conditioned roof. The Fashion show Mall has gone one better with weekly runway shows to showcase what’s hot and what’s not. This mall also offers the best range of stores from Saks to American Apparel meaning there really is something for everyone.
Getting There:
London to Las Vegas is notoriously long-haulwith very few airlines flying direct. British Airways have recently launched this new route from T5, and to travel with them in First is a real treat. There is space, yet privacy, and the beds are completely flat and very comfortable. It’s worth arriving in good time to enjoy the Concorde Lounge Prior to departure, where the ambience is calm and peaceful. It’s the perfect place to re-charge your batteries before the “Fabulous” Las Vegas adventure begins.
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