Several events are converging at once: the NBA playoffs are down to
the final four (almost) and the NHL Stanley cup final is about to
commence. The World Series of Poker is going strong with the Big Event
coming in a few days. The weather is actually pleasant now, as opposed
to life-threatening, which it will be in five weeks or so. All this
has combined to create the highest room occupancy that Vegas has seen
since 9/11. I checked some room prices for a friend, and this weekend:
Friday is sold out just about everywhere, and Saturday is available,
albeit at places like the Silverton, El Cortez, and Gold Spike for
about $89 a night. The following week up to and including Memorial day
weekend is booked solid. EVERYWHERE.
I am tempted to leave town that weekend, as the nightmarish crush of
traffic will make it impossible to go anywhere or do anything, but
where would there be someplace that isn't also jampacked with people?
Don't forget, we here in Vegas have to drive 300 miles just to get out
of this stinkin' desert. Ecch.
It's time to lay in some serious junk food, steaks, and charcoal for
the grill. Looks like hangin' by the pool is the optimum strategy.
Place some bets against the Lakers (I just HAVE to. It's my part in
combatting the forces of darkness and evil), drink cold Sam Adams, and
watch the game(s).
So, if anybody's thinking of visiting our fair city next week, may I
respectfully suggest that you reconsider, and do the same as I? Think
of the savings--the average Vegas visitor loses $271/day, according to
the latest statistics. Now that could buy some SERIOUS party food. Go
ahead. Invite Uncle Belch and Aunt Roach over; put a couple of extra
shrimp on the barbie. It's less stressful, cheaper, and ultimately a
lot more fun than fighting your way through the airport body cavity
searches, the long waits in traffic, and the crush of baaing and
mooing tourists as they herd along the Strip walkways.
Brought to you by the Las Vegas Chamber of Horrors.