Nevada

The Silver State truly sparkles – with the dazzling lights of Las Vegas and Reno and the breathtaking beauty of such destinations as Lake Tahoe, Red Rock Canyon, Pyramid Lake or Valley of Fire State Park. Uncover the two sides of Nevada, the sophisticated face (with casinos, the arts and modern entertainment) and the rugged yet tranquil face (with historic mining towns and some of the most picturesque sights Mother Nature has wrought). Also, the possibilities for fun are also endless. Have fun any which way you want – try the championship golf courses that will challenge and exhilarate, watch to see if aliens have landed at the Extraterrestrial Highway, explore dinosaur fossil digs, get crazy and get married at the many drive-thru wedding chapels, and oh, so much more!

First stop, Las Vegas! The famous (or infamous, whichever you take it) gambling mecca is definitely like no other place on earth. More than the fun at the craps table or trying your luck at the slot machines, it offers a wide array of entertainment and diversions. Drink in the architectural wonders of its luxurious hotels and casinos (the Bellagio, Caesar’s Palace, The Venetian and Circus Circus are just some of these). Go the gourmet route at restaurants headlined by famous chefs such as Daniel Boulid, Mark Miller, Joel Robuchon and more). Do some heavy-duty shopping at Le Boulevard or the Grand Canal Shoppes. Watch showgirls or Elvis impersonators strut their stuff at the many shows at The Strip. Feel like a child again at the Adventuredome, Circus Circus and Ethel M Chocolate factory.

You can also visit the ghost towns or gold mining towns that are so much a part of Las Vegas’ history. Strike the mother lode at Carson City, with the Comstock Lode, the largest silver find in history, just at the outskirts. It also is home to some fascinating homes, government and school buildings from the mining era. Other mining towns include Goldfield, Lovelock, and Virginia City. You can even try to do some mining yourself at the Bonanza Opal Mines and the Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine.

Reno is another must-see destination. The Biggest Little City in the World is situated at the foothills of Sierra Nevada and it combines three essential elements to a fabulous holiday – gaming, adventure and arts. It boasts of world-class museums (such as the Nevada Museum of Art) and an eclectic art district – Truckee River Arts District and a host of performing arts groups and venues. Indulge in some water sports at the Truckee River (whitewater rafting or kayaking) or do some high desert mountain biking or hiking.

You can also visit what is unarguably one of the most beautiful places in the world – Lake Tahoe. The lake itself is the highest alpine world in the country and is lined with isolated coves and bays.