LR
Travel Report
New Bliss in Sin City Revisiting Las Vegas ©MGM International
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Bliss Dance - The Park Vegas
f you’ve not been to Las Vegas recently, you might not recognize it, especially around Las Vegas Boulevard between New YorkNew York and the former Monte Carlo hotel. I say “former” Monte Carlo because it’s now undergoing a $450 million revamp to become a brand new resort called “The Park MGM” with an offshoot boutique stay “The Nomad Las Vegas”. This is the latest of a massive reimagination of this neighborhood that I had the opportunity to witness beginning last summer. I stayed at ARIA Sky Suites, a luxurious AAA Five Diamond escape – an ultra ethereal stay with the latest high-tech amenities. It also has superb dining on site. The hotel is within easy walking distance to the new transformations taking place like the opening of The Park La Vegas, a new urban oasis ecoinstallation in the heart of the concrete jungle. The Park was created as an eco-friendly spot for the community to gather and enjoy a green break with waterfalls and trendy al fresco dining spots and bars punctuated with impressive steel cactus blossom sculptures for shade. But the sculpture that really stands
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head and shoulders above the rest there is the new “Bliss Dance” by artist Marco Cochrane. It’s impossible to miss the 40-foot-tall wire mesh statue of a nude woman enraptured in dance – especially when lit up at night! She’s stunning. And just past her is another impressive structure: the brand new T-Mobile Arena! The uber-modern $375 million complex boasts a 20,000-seat capacity and excellent food and drink venues. We had the opportunity to attend the grand opening concert with local band The Killers in a luxury suite, and it was a fabulous way to catch a show with a high-end bar, comfy couches, and gourmet food. Also to come in this newly refreshed district is a 5,300 seat Park Theatre which is directly across the street from the eco-oasis. It’s slated for completion by 2018. So if you think you know Sin City, think again. This is the new Vegas, baby! And it’s certainly worth a visit! Visit: www.theparkvegas.com and www.t-mobilearena.com . SUSAN CAMPBELL @suectravel