Las Vegas is a city that never fails to impress, offering incredible entertainment, luxury accommodations, and unforgettable experiences. On my recent trip as a guest of Aer Lingus and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), I had the chance to explore the best of what the city has to offer, flying in style and comfort on Aer Lingus’ direct service from Dublin to Las Vegas.
Here are my top 10 tips to make your Las Vegas adventure as incredible as mine:
1. Fly Direct with Aer Lingus in Business Class
Aer Lingus offers a seamless, direct service from Dublin to Las Vegas three times a week, making it incredibly convenient for Irish travelers. My experience in business class was top-notch, starting with the 51st & Green Lounge at Dublin Airport, where I enjoyed a calm and luxurious space before boarding.
Onboard, I had seat 5K on the way out and 3K on the return journey. If you’re booking business class, I highly recommend these seats for the extra space and privacy they offer. The 10.3-hour flight flew by (pun intended!), thanks to the comfortable lie-flat seat, delicious meals, and attentive service. On the way home, I slept the entire 9-hour journey, arriving back in Dublin refreshed.
2. Stay at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Our home base was the stunning Fontainebleau Hotel, a 5-star property located just 15 minutes from the airport. This brand-new luxury hotel exudes elegance, from its opulent interiors to its world-class amenities.
For dinner, we dined at KYU, the hotel’s signature restaurant. The menu was outstanding, featuring a perfect mix of Asian-inspired dishes with bold, vibrant flavors. Be sure to book a table here—it’s a culinary experience you won’t forget.
3. Experience the Festive Magic at Bellagio
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without visiting the iconic Bellagio Hotel. We started our morning with breakfast at Sadelle’s, a bright and chic spot offering an incredible menu of classic breakfast dishes.
Afterward, we wandered through the hotel’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which had been transformed with spectacular Christmas decorations. The festive displays were nothing short of magical, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.
4. Explore Allegiant Stadium
For sports fans, a tour of the Allegiant Stadium, home to the Las Vegas Raiders, is a must. This state-of-the-art facility offers an incredible behind-the-scenes look at one of the most modern stadiums in the world. Even if you’re not a die-hard sports enthusiast, the scale and technology of this venue will leave you in awe.
5. Be Awestruck by the Sphere
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Sphere, a groundbreaking entertainment venue that has to be seen to be believed. We attended a show called “Postcard from Earth”, which showcased the Sphere’s unparalleled 16K LED screen, immersive sound, and jaw-dropping visuals.
The venue is also hosting major concerts, including U2, drawing thousands of Irish fans to Las Vegas. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to check out the Sphere’s event schedule—it’s a bucket-list experience.
6. Dine in Style at Smith & Wollensky
For a classic American steakhouse experience, look no further than Smith & Wollensky at The Venetian Resort. The service, ambiance, and food were exceptional. My steak was cooked to perfection, and the wine list was equally impressive.
Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a group celebration, this spot is perfect for an unforgettable evening.
7. Shop and Save at the Premium Outlets
No trip to Vegas is complete without a bit of retail therapy. The Las Vegas Premium Outlets offer a fantastic shopping experience, with discounts on designer brands that are hard to resist.
As a bonus, Tour America clients can receive an exclusive barcode for additional discounts—be sure to ask when booking your trip. This is the perfect place to pick up gifts or treat yourself to something special.
8. Take to the Skies with Maverick Helicopters
Seeing the Las Vegas Strip at night from the air is an experience like no other. Maverick Helicopters offers a 10-minute helicopter ride that showcases the city’s dazzling lights and iconic landmarks.
This was one of the most memorable moments of my trip and a must-do for anyone visiting Las Vegas. It’s the ultimate way to appreciate the energy and beauty of the city.
9. Savor the Buffet and Show at Wynn Las Vegas
The Wynn Las Vegas knows how to do luxury right. We enjoyed a decadent meal at the hotel’s world-famous buffet, which featured an endless array of gourmet dishes and desserts.
After dinner, we attended Awakening, a spectacular show filled with stunning visuals, incredible acrobatics, and a captivating storyline. This was a perfect way to end the evening and is highly recommended for anyone looking for top-tier entertainment in Vegas.
10. Experience the Grand Canyon with Papillon Helicopters
Saving the best for last: my helicopter trip to the Grand Canyon with Papillon Helicopters was the highlight of my Las Vegas adventure.
The journey began with an early morning pick-up, followed by a breathtaking 45-minute flight to the Grand Canyon. We landed in the canyon for a VIP lunch with unparalleled views of this natural wonder before flying back over the Las Vegas Strip.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience is worth every penny and is an absolute must for anyone visiting the region.
Plan Your Trip Today
From luxurious accommodations and world-class dining to unforgettable entertainment and breathtaking natural wonders, Las Vegas truly has something for everyone.
A big thank you to Aer Lingus, Las Vegas CVB, and Papillon Helicopters for hosting me on this incredible journey. You can book all of these amazing experiences and more through The Travel Suite & Tour America Ireland’s leading travel agency – 01 9059008
So, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Las Vegas is waiting for you. Pack your bags, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!
Mary McKenna

