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Older lady traveling alone & nervous

Discussion in 'Introduce Yourself!' started by AbbyP, Apr 16, 2013.

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  1. AbbyP

    AbbyP Tourist

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    I haven't been on an airplane in almost 2 decades. This will be my first time in Vegas as an adult (we had a family trip to Las Vegas when I was a small child). My husband and I were supposed to go together, but he is unable to go now and I have decided to go alone since the trip is non-refundable.

    I'm fairly proper and frugal, I don't drink and I don't have the funds for trying gambling.

    I don't want to stay in my room the whole time with a book. Could some of the kind people on this forum help me?

    1) I am staying at the Rio, off-strip. I will be taking a cab from the airport to the hotel. Is there a route I should ask the cabdriver to take? I would really like to be able to stop at a gas station or convenience store on the way to the hotel for water and cola for my room so I don't have to pay hotel prices, and I will not have a rental car.

    2) I know there are many beautiful hotels in Vegas. If I go to the strip, which hotels are not to be missed? I'd like to go to places where I can just walk and have interesting sights to look at and feel safe.

    3) I have heard so much about the famous buffets in Las Vegas. If I try one, will it be odd that I am there alone?

    4) Will most of the people at the pool be young, superfit and showgirl beautiful? Will I be out of place in a one-piece and sunhat?

    Any tips for a solo female traveler not into the club/nightlife scene would be so very appreciated. I'd like to know what to expect in "Sin City" and turn this anxiety about my trip into excitement.
     
  2. padietz

    padietz Tourist

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    I'm going out this weekend--it will be my 3rd solo trip. I too am an older female so I venture out in the daytime and always get back to my hotel before dark. I stay on the strip so there are always tons of people to walk with. I always visit the Bellagio--the fountains and the conservatory. I generally eat at food courts but I have eaten at some buffets and even some casual restaurants (KGB, Hash House). As long as you go where the crowds are, you'll be fine.
     
  3. AbbyP

    AbbyP Tourist

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    Thank you, Padietz

    Your post is very reassuring, and fountains and a conservatory sound like the exact type of activity I will really enjoy.
     
  4. sybgal

    sybgal VIP Whale

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    1st of all....just RELAX - many females on this board take solo trips and love them. Remember, there is a free shuttle to Bally's or Harrah's from the Rio. Most folks just give the driver $1 tip each trip. Go over to the strip each day - the drop off locations are central and you can roam around and see so many of the casinos and free entertainment. From Bally's you could go over to Planet Hollywood's Miracle Mile shops to get some supplies cheaper at the ABC Store and take them back with you on the shuttle.

    Don't miss....: Bellagio Fountain Show / The Conservatory @ Bellagio / Cosmo - just to walk around & take the beauty in... / Paris - could go up in the Eiffel Tower (you should get a coupon book at Rio check-in for a discount) / Down the street from Harrah's you could take in the Pirate Show at Treasure Island / The Volcano at Mirage...on & on & on...there is much to keep you busy. Eating buffets....your coupon book should have some discounts at several CET locations but if you really like buffets...could do the buffet of buffets for $49.95 & could eat 4 meals if you plan well.

    Since you are not a gambler....you may want to just plop it down and a machine while you are walking around and put in $1 - heck you could play 1 penny at a time to get a coke cause you will need it while roaming around. When the waitress comes to take your coke order, ask her for a bottle of water they keep on their trays to put in your bag for later.

    Make it inside as many strip casinos as you can...each of them has something worthwhile to take in... Just take your time and go at your own pace. Hopefully someone else can help you with info on the crowd at the Rio pool and which route the cab should take. I know at Paris & Bally's pools - there is every age, size & shape ..... I'm sure you can fit right in.
    Hope you have a wonderful trip!!
     
  5. OKC Gal

    OKC Gal Low-Roller

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    I'm 53, and I go out several times a year, usually solo. I always feel save. Just take your regular precautions. I like the RIO very much, also, although I think their restaurants are high (consider going next door to the Gold Coast to eat some - buffet is good and inexpensive - especially breakfast).

    I'm don't drink, and gamble about $50 or so per day on slot machines. Otherwise, I rent a car (I probably wouldn't advise that on the first trip) and go everywhere. If you do nothing else - there are great hotels to just look at on the strip. I recommend the Cosmopolitan, Caesar's Palace, MGM, Palazzo and Venetian. There is a big mall on the strip.

    Nobody there knows you (or I). So have fun, eat at good restaurants and have a blast! Write a trip report when you come back - we'd love to hear how it went!
     
  6. kevrock

    kevrock Tourist

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    A fun thing to do when staying at the Rio is pay a visit to the Voodoo lounge. If you ask about it when you check in, the desk person will give you a pass. Go up around 5-6pm for a great place to have a quiet drink & take pictures from the best view in Vegas. Both times we have been there at those times, we have pretty much had the whole patio to ourselves. Awesome.
     
  7. 9wishes

    9wishes Low-Roller

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    Nobody cares what you wear or look like in Vegas. Besides, you'll probably never see them again in your life. It would probably cost more to have a cab take you to a convenience store and wait for you than you'll save at the rio gift store. However, you'll be next door to Gold Coast, which has a good buffet at very reasonable prices, as mentioned, and their gift shop has descent prices, too.

    I'm an older married lady. I prefer solo trips. I feel safe in Vegas. People are friendly. There are no stupid questions..the employees have heard them all. Most are happy to help. Enjoy!
     
  8. Jimbo338

    Jimbo338 VIP Whale

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    Abby,
    I missed my trade show this past Jauary,just didn't have the money; it's been a tough year in business. I had the ticket to use up and will be heading to LV for a long weekend May 4th. I enjoy downtown.....so much, so close, A&B store and dollar store for snacks in my room, quality room for very little $$$, lots going on in the FSE and great restaurants all within a few minute's walk. Everything else I can get to with my bus pass.

    I seldom gamble, hardly ever drink.......and always have a great time! I usually take in a show or two, check out some new hotels,new stores and attractions. To be fair, I have nothing against gambling or booze, and I can spend more on shows than some do on slots. It's what you like to do, and you can have a good time without spending your life's savings. First it is a break in the day to day routine and secondly, there is just such a variety of things to do, how could anyone be bored?

    Don't worry how anyone else dresses; LV is very casual. I go in jeans and a shirt and if I can't get there dressed like that, I don't want to go there. I will be on vacation and want to be comfortable.I have never had the Rio's buffet but my favorite buffet in that area is at the Gold Coast. You can cross through the parking garage that separates Rio and GC or you can walk down to Flamingo and walk up to GC. Between Rio, GC and Palms there are a variety of restaurants too.

    I would just take a shuttle to the Rion and save a couple of bucks, but cab if you don't care. Have a good time, dress comfortably and don't worry about anyone else!

    Jimbo338
     
  9. split10's?

    split10's? Low-Roller

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    you'll have exactly as much fun as you decide to! Many couples sorta wish they were solo and could just do what they want, at the drop of a hat. Wear what you want, eat where you want. If you happen to like Chinese food the Gold Coast is one of the best moderate-level places in all of Vegas, Ping Pang Pong. Heck, sit down at the sports book somewhere for an hour, drink a soda, just take it all in.

    A big sincere smile will open up a safe Vegas trip like nothing else...:)
     
  10. AbbyP

    AbbyP Tourist

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    Thank you for all the tips & encouragement

    I am starting to feel better about going alone thanks to all the kind replies here. It's good to know that I won't stick out like a sore thumb by myself and that other women (and older women) have made the venture themselves.

    I rarely, if ever, do anything myself in my hometown - so doing soming alone in a city like Las Vegas that is so different from where I live just seems a bit scary.

    I really benefitted from every reply here - thanks and I hope there are more to follow. Special thanks to OKC, sybgal, jimbo and really I guess it all comes down to what Split10s said - "you'll have exactly as much fun as you decide to!" Great advice. :cheers:

    I am going to try to leave my books and computer at home, just so the shy part of me doesn't decide to stay in my hotel room the whole time I am there.

    I've read a lot of posts on this forum since I posted my first message, and it seems that some people like to go alone so they can do what they want, when they want - but I am just not one of those people. Is there a nice place at any hotel bar where I could get a cola and meet other people to chat with, where I don't seem like I'm trying to get picked up?
     
  11. maineguy

    maineguy Low-Roller

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    Although I know you like to walk...I wonder if you might enjoy a sight-seeing bus tour....especially a night tour which includes Fremont street time to see the amazing light show. It's very safe...and I can't imagine you seeing some of the amazing neon and l.e.d. lights and sights at night any other way.
    here is a link for one tour bus....maybe others can suggest favorite tours.
    http://reserve.latourist.com/3962_attraction-tickets_a1161.html
    have fun!!!......solo is good!!
     
  12. Reefer

    Reefer Low-Roller

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    Do not worry about how you look at the pool. Most hotel photos online or brochures show these hot looking babes and six pack ab guys and in reality, when you get there it is mostly the one piece suits and sun hats and guys who look like they just had a six pack. For sure don't sit in your room and read, go down and get a spot by the pool and enjoy the book and people watch. You WILL NOT be out of place. Also, take in the fountain shows at Bellagio and try the buffet there. It's one of the best.
     
  13. OKC Gal

    OKC Gal Low-Roller

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    Abby - you said you might leave your books home, but I wanted to also mention that the smart phone for me is a lifesaver. I just play with my smartphone when I'm eating at a restaurant or buffet, or else take a book or magazine. My least favorite part about being a single traveler is the waiting in LINE at a buffet. When I actually get seated, it's fine.
     
  14. mamamk

    mamamk Tourist

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    So much solo fun to be had......

    I had one solo day in Vegas many years ago and it was the best time I had (up until I started going with my new improved husband). I did things no man would want to do, particularly the shopping in the designer stores. I spent some time in the dressing rooms of Versace and other fancy-pants places, which I would never get to do otherwise. Sat and ate and people-watched or read. Spent all the time I wanted at the museums and the Imperial Palace (now Quad) car show, since I always take forever at those places. If I was going solo now I would spend a day at one of the spas. It involves money, but your whole trip will cost less b/c you have no expenses associated with your husband. Have a wonderful time!
     
  15. MikeOPensacola

    MikeOPensacola El Jefe

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    Have a great trip!! Stay with the crowds and if you feel the need for a casino security person to escort you to your room, or anywhere for that matter, all you have to do is ask. Most, if not all, casinos are more than happy to accommodate you. Once again, I hope you have a super time!!!:peace::beer::peace:
     
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  16. runningonthehub

    runningonthehub VIP Whale

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    Solo at the Buffets

    I tend to go to buffets early, when they first open up. The place is less crowded and it makes being solo less uncomfortable. You would be surprised how many others are also solo.
    Also, take a camera and take lots of pictures. It gives you something to occupy your time.
    Don't let being solo bother you. Enjoy yourself.
     
  17. MikeOPensacola

    MikeOPensacola El Jefe

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    Yep, I prefer to go solo. That way I can go where I want and at my own pace. Plenty of solo visitors to LV, you won't stand out one iota. Have fun:peace::peace::peace:
     
    Annual CCA (Casino Collectibles Association) Show at South Point
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  18. Stsc

    Stsc Tourist

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    hi abby

    although im a guy, i go to vegas solo all the time. bring a smart phone or BOOK to eat with, nobody knows if youre traveling alone or just enjoying a meal alone while your husband is gambling.

    also, since its your first trip you may want to take a shuttle from the airport, if available. it may take a little longer, but it will probably be cheaper (you'll know exactly how much) and you wont be taken for a ride. shuttles usually have routes going to a number of hotels, hopefully rio is one of the first stops.
    maybe tip the driver a dollar or two.

    have fun. the great thing about going solo is you determine what your schedule is. theres lots of info about traveling solo on this board. at least try some slots. if you get a drink (even bottled water) tip the person a dollar.
     
  19. Cliffroy

    Cliffroy Newbie

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    The Gold Coast buffet is very inexpensive and good for a quick fix. However, across the street is the Palms Casino. And for about two dollars more, has much better food. All of the lunch and dinner buffets there could be considered, "seafood buffets."

    I agree with poster who said to eat right when the buffets open, usually at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM because they are less crowded, you won't feel weird being a single diner, and more importantly, that is when the food tastes best.

    The Palms also has a multiplex theater and has a five dollar movie day, and a four dollar movie day, just in case you get bored. This is right next to an above average food court.

    None of the casinos in the Rio/Gold Coast/Palms area are "must see." The nice ones are on the strip. Anywhere you go, you are going to be walking a lot. You may want to consider a bus pass.
     
  20. Cliffroy

    Cliffroy Newbie

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    On Mondays, all movies are 5$ at the Palms. And and I think it Thursdays when seniors can see any movie for 4$.
     
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