Las Vegas transcends the definition of a city; it embodies a unique experience. One might aptly describe it as a whimsical, albeit kitschy, snow globe where every element is carefully crafted for entertainment.
Despite its artificiality, the city remains one of my favorite destinations. Recently, I participated in the IMEX Show event in Las Vegas, a demanding four-day schedule filled with meetings, appointments, and dinners with both current and prospective clients, alongside promoting New Orleans at our booth to various groups. Although the work is intense and tiring, I still found moments of enjoyment, as even professional engagements in Las Vegas carry a certain allure.
I departed from New Orleans on the earliest Southwest flight, arriving in Las Vegas by 8:30am, which granted me the entire day to explore. Upon reaching my hotel, Excalibur, I checked my bags since it was too early for check-in. While not a luxury establishment, Excalibur offers a delightfully campy atmosphere filled with entertainment options, such as the Tournament of Kings jousting show, the Australian Bee Gees Show (which I highly recommend) and the lively performances of the Thunder Down Under male dancers. The latter pose shirtless in the lobby for photos (for a price), adding to the playful spirit of the venue.
After securing my belongings, my friend Terri and I made our way down the strip to the Hard Rock Café to celebrate our friend Sandra’s birthday. We were in for a treat at the Voss Events Drag Brunch, which marked a decade of dazzling performances as Sin City’s original Drag Brunch. Now in its tenth year, this vibrant event encourages attendees to embrace their inner diva, featuring stunning acts from stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race and top female impersonators from Las Vegas. This brunch stands out as one of the most enjoyable drag shows I have experienced, complete with bottomless mimosas and delectable cuisine.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by glamorous waitresses who not only escorted us to our seats but also posed for photos, setting the tone for the fabulousness to come. Our emcee for the event was Shannel, renowned for her appearances on the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race and subsequent seasons of All Stars. She proved to be an exceptional host, blending professionalism with humor and flair. The lineup also included talented performers such as Kahana Montrese, Deja Skye, Roxy Brooks, and the legendary Hot Chocolate, who, at seventy, still dazzles with her energetic performance. Enhancing the experience were the striking male dancers, adding an extra layer of excitement to the brunch. I highly recommend opting for the VIP experience, as it amplifies the fun. Additionally, I found myself unexpectedly participating in an impromptu drag contest, where I competed in a dance-off against three other contestants and emerged victorious, earning a delightful Pink Twink shot, the contents of which were a delicious mystery.
After brunch, we embarked on a cocktail tour of some of Las Vegas’ renowned local bars, starting in the Chinatown area where many establishments are conveniently located within close proximity. Our first destination was 00 Pie and Pub, a venue that evokes the ambiance of a Tokyo pizza shop, complete with anime playing on a large screen. The margherita and funghi pizzas were delightful.
Next, we visited Mas Por Favor Taqueria & Tequila, just a short walk away in the same strip mall. This casual eatery specializes in street tacos and other Mexican dishes, but upon requesting “Today’s delight,” we were guided through a quirky tunnel that mimicked a cave, leading us to a Vintage Tequila Speakeasy. Here, we savored tequila shots served in emptied shotgun shells alongside refreshing sangria.
Continuing our exploration, we stopped at the Golden Tiki, a tiki bar known for its extravagant décor and inventive cocktails like Piranha Punch and Rings of Saturn. Our final stop in this bustling strip mall was J Karaoke, where we enjoyed drinks and belted out our favorite tunes from the eighties in a private room for two hours. Although karaoke isn’t typically my preference, the combination of friends and ample drinks made it an enjoyable experience.
Our last destination in Chinatown was The Sand Dollar Lounge, a renowned live music venue that has hosted legendary Blues artists such as B.B. King and Muddy Waters. Established in 1976, the club experienced a brief closure but has since regained its status as a vibrant nightlife spot. During our visit, coinciding with Halloween, we enjoyed the themed Nightmare on Spring Mountain Halloween Pop-Up Bar, which featured extravagant decorations and a unique craft cocktail menu, with The Poison Apple being my personal favorite.
After a day of leisurely drinking, I decided to part ways with my group for a dinner at Eataly in Park MGM. This Italian marketplace provides a variety of dining options, including grab-and-go counters, sit-down restaurants, and bars, along with a selection of high-quality food products for purchase. I opted for a few delightful small appetizers accompanied by a glass of wine before returning to my hotel to crash.
Day two in Las Vegas proved to be another exhilarating experience. I began my morning at the North Premium Outlet Mall, my go-to shopping destination on the strip, where I consistently find remarkable deals.
Following my shopping spree, I enjoyed lunch at Mon Ami Gabi, a favorite restaurant located within the Paris Casino. Established in 1999 and helmed by Executive Chef Vincent Pouessel, this eatery offers classic French bistro dishes with a contemporary flair, complemented by exceptional service. After lunch, I registered for the IMEX Trade Show, the largest event in the global meetings, events, and incentive travel sector, held at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. This four-day program, which is free to attend, features specialized education, networking opportunities, and an impressive trade show showcasing exhibitors from around the world. I also participated in an afternoon management class.
That evening, I accompanied some clients to Universal Horror Unleashed, situated within the entertainment hub of Area15. Inside a dimly lit warehouse, we immersed ourselves in a series of chilling experiences inspired by Universal’s rich history of horror in film and live entertainment. We ventured through four distinct haunted houses, each presenting its own spine-tingling narrative: Universal Monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (my personal favorite), The Exorcist: Believe, and Scarecrow: The Reaping. Each attraction was not only frightfully entertaining but also complemented by themed bars, a captivating gift shop filled with horror memorabilia, a café, and numerous characters roaming the venue for photo opportunities. I was fortunate to have clients who share a passion for horror.
After our adrenaline-fueled adventure, we dined at Carson Kitchen, renowned for its innovative American cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails, making it a staple in the Downtown Las Vegas culinary scene. Established in 2014 through a collaboration between chef and restaurateur Cory Harwell and the late Chef Kerry Simon, Carson Kitchen boasts a modern bar, an open kitchen expo counter, communal tables, and a rooftop bar. Guests can unwind with a cocktail in the courtyard of the repurposed mid-century John E. Carson Hotel. The meal was exceptional, particularly the hot dog burnt ends, mac & cheese, and rainbow cauliflower, making for another delightful dining experience in a charming atmosphere.
Tuesday marked the bustling opening day of the convention, drawing over 15,000 attendees to a vibrant show floor. I spent the day passionately promoting New Orleans as a premier destination for global groups, a task I relish given my deep connection to this enchanting city. I believe that visitors leave with a renewed sense of joy after experiencing its unique charm.
Following the trade show, I had the pleasure of attending a delightful reception hosted by the LGBT Meeting Professionals Association at the Velvet Room in the Luxor Hotel. This gathering provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow professionals from around the world, fostering a sense of community among those facing similar challenges. Such conferences not only promote understanding and cultural exchange but also resonate with MPI’s motto, “When we meet, we change the world,” a sentiment that feels increasingly relevant in today’s climate of division.
After the reception, I joined some clients at Vanderpump à Paris, a stunning venue that, despite my unfamiliarity with Lisa Vanderpump’s reality television, captivated me with its exquisite aesthetics. The restaurant boasts a whimsical atmosphere, featuring delectable cuisine, unique cocktails, and an elaborate design inspired by Parisian elegance. The dining experience was truly remarkable, enhanced by Art Nouveau-inspired decor and enchanting details. To conclude the evening, I enjoyed a nightcap at the Juniper Cocktail Lounge at Park MGM before retiring for the night.
On Wednesday, the trade show was just as busy as the first day. One of the highlights of our booth is the daily happy hour, featuring wine and champagne starting at 2pm, which provides a delightful transition into the evening.
After the event, I had the pleasure of dining with a client at Cleaver, a restaurant established by Nectaly Mendoza as a tribute to the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Las Vegas steakhouse. Cleaver boasts an extensive seasonal menu that complements its cocktail offerings, making it a more local gem rather than a tourist trap. The steaks are exceptional, ranking among my top ten steak restaurants ever. From delectable appetizers like crab cakes and charred Spanish octopus to an impressive array of steaks, toppings, and sides, this establishment is a must-visit in Las Vegas. Their craft cocktail menu is a fascinating journey through time, featuring drinks from various historical eras, including the Gothic Age and the Dale DeGroff Era. Additionally, I found the prices to be quite reasonable, with even better deals available for early diners. Cleaver will undoubtedly be added to my list of must-visit restaurants in Vegas.
The MPI (Meeting Professionals International) Rendezvous party stands out as one of the premier events during the IMEX Trade Show, consistently selling out each year. Held at Drais, the rooftop pool and club at the Cromwell Hotel, this venue offers an extraordinary experience with its two levels of cabanas surrounding a pool that features a submerged walkway, allowing guests to dance while partially immersed in water. The rooftop provides stunning panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the festivities. The expansive dance floor is enhanced by an impressive light show and jets that shoot up from the ground, creating a magical atmosphere reminiscent of dancing inside a snow globe when confetti falls. With multiple VIP seating areas encircling the dance floor, we were fortunate to secure a reserved spot, which served as our home base for the evening. The party commenced at 10pm, and continued into the early hours, with DJ Splyce keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed. A highlight of the night included an impromptu parade featuring a woman being carried like Cleopatra in a gold convertible. Notably, the venue will undergo a transformation at the end of the year, as it will be rebranded as Soleia when the hotel transitions to a Lisa Vanderpump property, promising a new level of glamour.
Thursday marked the conclusion of the trade show. With the day being relatively quiet, I took the opportunity to explore more booths, and I was truly impressed by the exceptional displays from various cities, states, and countries, all showcasing their best in decor, entertainment, food, and beverages. It’s clear that a few days are necessary to fully appreciate everything the event has to offer. After the show, I headed straight to the airport via Uber for my flight home. I enjoyed dinner at Tequileria, one of my favorite restaurants in the terminal, where I savored excellent margaritas and delicious food. It was the perfect place to unwind, especially since our flight was delayed by an hour, which, in today’s travel climate, felt like a stroke of luck. I am already looking forward to next year’s show!
