Discovering the Real in Las Vegas

For some people, the idea of a Las Vegas work trip isn’t totally pleasant. They think of constant crowds and bright lights; long lineups for buffets and restaurants; and the lack of green spaces.

For me, the most challenging aspect of visiting Neon City is the smoky environment, which I’ve mostly learned to handle by planning the path of least exposure when arriving or exiting a building. And so a few years ago, when my husband mentioned joining him for a Las Vegas business trip, the drawbacks of the city were on my mind. Even though I reminded myself that, during our previous visits, I’d always found highlights to enjoy.

My outlook turned around, however, during our trip that included the July 1st Canada Day holiday.

Knowledgeable employees

While my husband was in meetings one morning, I walked around for a while, then struck up a conversation with the hotel doorman named Matt. His friendliness and wide range of knowledge were impressive as he took me on a tour of the MGM Mansion. The Mansion’s 29 villas are designed to resemble an 18th-century Tuscan village. They incorporate Italian architectural elements like arched hallways, pillars, and stained-glass windows.

After the Mansion tour, I left to search for a gift for my son-in-law. The store I wanted to visit was closed, but I met a second doorman (also named Matt) who went ‘above and beyond’ to help facilitate my request.

Since both doormen were named Matt, my joke of the day was about the two friendly ‘door Matts’!

Shift in perspective

Talking to the doormen shifted my perspective somehow. I began noticing and appreciating the professionalism and attitude of the people who work in the city. Sure, Las Vegas employees communicate well, and this skill often results in greater tips – but it’s much more than that. I noticed the generosity present in most dealings: a generosity displayed not only by employees but also by visitors. Vegas is the people.

For the rest of the trip, I sought out and absorbed the city’s overall air of friendliness and benevolence, which really lifted my spirits and made me feel more hospitable.

Here are some of my favourite memories, even four years after that trip:

• friendly taxi drivers responding to infinite demands with a smile
• brides at the blackjack tables – and ‘Elvis’ playing roulette
• the pleasure of making people feel included, when a quick hello can lead to a group of strangers sharing fun

• a generous offer from departing new friends to enjoy a gazebo: an oasis complete with water misters, music, a fruit basket, and bliss
• drinking up peoples’ stories; chatting with ease to new acquaintances; accepting mini bottles of wine kindly gifted
• the warmth experienced by inviting others to evening gatherings, and realizing that camaraderie is one of life’s most cherished gifts
• memories of the pool and being invited to float with the Budweiser girls, while flinging Canada Day bling to swimmers
• a friendly hello shouted by another guest, met at the previous night’s fundraiser: “Hey, I remember you! You’re European!” And my proud correction: “Hey! I am a Canadian girl!”

The gift I received from that trip was the understanding that amazing things can happen from surprising little moments. And that it’s the people who help create the magic and memories, not only the place.