Didn't get up particularly early as we knew our trip today was going to be quite short in comparison to other days. Ate our own prepared breakfast again and gradually started to gather our things. Eventually left just after eleven and headed south west.
Had a fairly uneventful journey, just trundled along gradually losing altitude on our way. Also gained an hour as we are now back in Pacific time, so 8 hours behind the UK. Suddenly, with about twenty miles to go, we saw large buildings clustered together in the distance, and knew we were nearly in Las Vegas (Ocean's Eleven, The Hangover, CSI).
Then the journey got interesting. When we left Zion, the car said we had 220 miles worth of fuel left, and we only had 170ish miles to drive. Gradually as we travelled the gap between the two got less and less until the car starting shouting at us to 'get some bloody fuel, you idiot'. So we pulled off the interstate right at the northern tip of Vegas to top up. Pulled into the first gas station we could find. Soon realised that it wasn't quite the part of Vegas to be in. Had to pay for fuel inside before you filled up and they didn't accept credit cards. Then when I went back outside to put the gas in, the guy didn't release the pump. Had to go back inside and he thought we were pump four even though I had said pump one. Eventually managed to get some fuel and not to get shot at by a gangster rapper. Left asap and headed on down to the main part of town.
Pulled up outside the Mirage about 1.30pm and handed the car over to some bloke. Not sure we'll ever see it again. Then man put luggage on trolley and told us to ring when we got to our room. So within 2 minutes of arriving we had lost everything. Went inside to check in. Queued up for a while, then when we did check in our room wasn't ready. At this point we were feeling slightly disorientated by it all.
Now I forgot to mention yesterday that Ann reckoned she saw the same Japanese family that we saw in three restaurants in Moab, trying to check into the the Desert Pearl Inn. Then today at the check in desk there they are again. Think they are ninja family trying to silently stalk us.
We decided to go for a wander whilst we waited and ended up going into the Forum, the shopping part of Caesar's Palace. Got lost immediately. Eventually found out how to get where we wanted to go. Had lunch in The Cheesecake Factory. Didn't have cheesecake but there was way too much food. Tried to video it but it was too dark. Gradually made our way back to the Mirage to see if our room was ready. It was.
Went up to the 22nd floor and went in. Phoned down for our luggage. It arrived later, hurrah! Had to tip the man who brought it up even though that is his job. Still can't work that out.
Decided that we didn't want to go outside as it was 107 degrees. Sat on bed and watched Four Weddings and a Funeral. Eventually decided to go and explore much later. Still very hot. Walked along the strip and eventually went in to one place.
Wandered around the casino floor, watched a few things going on. Went back outside and watched Treasure Island's pirate show which included two big ships. It was appalling. Made our way back to the hotel, stopping off at a shop to get some supplies in. Lots of families wandering about with small kids late at night. Can't imagine why anyone would bring their kids here. What would you do? Only options are to gamble or play golf.
Now back typing this whilst eating a packet of 'Nerds', anyone remember them? Ann has fallen asleep as ever. And it is still 95 degrees outside despite being midnight.
