Jan 30th – Feb 2nd – Our winter holiday this year began in Las Vegas. It was a bit of a delayed start since our plane experienced mechanical difficulty and we had to return to the gate. Two hours later we finally lifted off. Because of the delay, food was in short supply and only snacks were available by the time they reached our row. Fortunately, we had brought some snacks so didn’t really have a problem.

Our purpose for going to Las Vegas, was twofold: we had been told that the flight and car rental are cheaper in Nevada than in Palm Springs, and we were offered a free three-night stay compliments of Holiday Inn Club Vacations.

We were housed at the Stratosphere – a large hotel and casino at the north end of the strip. Since we were quite tired by the time we checked in, we just ate at the restaurant in the hotel and then retired early.

Tower at the Hotel Stratosphere – people jump from the top!

On Wednesday morning, Nancy had a conference call, after which we attended the obligatory two-hour Vacation Club presentation and then in the evening we went to see the musical Las Vegas! which was very good. It told the story of entertainment through the years in Las Vegas including the Rat Pack, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Petula Clark and many others.

He played Sinatra and Elvis. She played Diana Ross and Petula Clark.

On Thursday morning we spent time in the room, as George had a conference call, and then we walked “the strip”. At least one of us was completely exhausted after what must have been at least 15K steps! We both slept well on Thursday night.

Friday morning we struck off early on our way to Palm Desert. It was about a 4.5 hour trip and we arrived while it was still daylight. Our house was open when we arrived as there was a bit of a plumbing problem that needed to be fixed. After unpacking, we went for dinner, at Don Diago’s, and then did a major grocery shop.

Our house is small and cozy but I think it will be quite comfortable for the next month.