Name? Erika Carlock

Occupation? Social Media Content Creator + Online Home Decor Shop Owner

Preoccupation? Exploring the world for hidden gems that are full of history and color!

Place you live? Los Angeles, CA

How long have you lived there? Almost a decade! 

Can you sum up Vegas in a paragraph? Vegas is incredible. Everything is endless; the entertainment, the award-winning restaurants, buffets, the glittering nightlife. There’s just so much to take in.

There are no limits in Vegas. You can “travel the world” in a matter of a few miles. Step back in time and tour Ancient Egypt, ride the canals of Venice, and finish the day with a meal atop the Eiffel Tower.

What is the best thing about Vegas? It never sleeps! The bright neon lights dazzle 24/7, and if you want anything at any time, you can get it in Vegas.

What is a common misconception about Vegas? That it’s all about partying and gambling. Of course, that can be a big part of it. But, this is a city loaded with a storied past and vintage relics seen in places like the Neon Museum, the Mob Museum, and Fremont Street offer a different experience.

It’s really interesting to learn what Vegas was like in the past–it allows you to view the city with a whole new lens.

What are the people like in Vegas? Every kind of person goes to Vegas, so the city is a cross-section of people from all walks of life from all over the world. The diversity of Vegas is unparalleled: families, foreigners, bachelor parties. You can walk past a crowd of people and hear conversations in languages from all over the world.

The one thing everyone has in common is that they’re all there to have a good time. Whether they’re there for the food, the gambling, or to see a show, the city is all about having fun.

If Vegas was a person who would it be? The person that gets along with everyone. Whether you want nightlife, a luxury vacation by the pool, history, or a quick gambling trip, Vegas provides.

Tell us about your experience visiting the Flamingo Las Vegas.  The Flamingo Hotel is a Vegas landmark from the days when the mob ran Vegas! It’s the oldest hotel on The Strip, and perfect if you’re looking for a spot smack in the middle of The Strip.

Step out of the hotel, and you’re right where the action is. To the right, you can walk straight to the shops at the LINQ, where you can find some of the best food from famed restaurants from around the world.

And, across the street is Caesars Palace, where you can catch a show and feel like you’re back in Ancient Rome.  Everywhere you look, there’s something iconic.

Like, even if you just stay near the pool, you’ll have a full view of the Eiffel Tower and the High Roller–all while surrounded by desert palm trees.

What did you love about the Flamingo Las Vegas? The Flamingo represents a bygone era, that old school Vegas glitz, and glamor. I like that they stay true to the building’s history but aren’t afraid to join the modern era.

On display in the lobby are costumes from Las Vegas performers of the past. The walls covered in 1960s wallpaper, and the sign outside sure does sparkle. In short, the Flamingo offers a certain charm you won’t find in the newer hotels.

Tell us about the activities you participated in during your visit. The GO Pool at the Flamingo is a must-do. They have DJs by the pool and comfy lounge chairs for sunbathing. The pool comes equipped with plenty of beach balls to toss around and, fittingly, flamingos to float on. You can truly relax, take in the sights, and enjoy the pink-filled tropical paradise that is the GO.

Oh–and Throwback Thursdays are where it’s at, DJs spin 90s jams all afternoon.

I saw Absinthe at Caesars Palace, and it was the highlight of the trip! A comedy show, circus performance, and burlesque show all wrapped into one. I can see how it’s been running for over a decade.

When we first arrived, we checked out the Habitat at the courtyard. There are tons of gorgeous pink flamingos in the middle of a jungle area that makes you feel like you’ve arrived at a lovely tropical destination.

One of my favorite places to visit in Vegas is the Neon Museum. They house a massive collection of neon signs from decades past. It’s a cool place to get a bit of history and see the glittering signs that once defined the Las Vegas Strip.

On the drive into Las Vegas, there’s a pastel-hued art exhibit in the desert called Seven Magic Mountains that makes for the perfect pit stop. It’s a giant series of seven giant rocks ideal for kicking off a magical trip to Las Vegas.

If a friend was visiting Vegas for a quick trip what would you suggest they do? On your way into the city, stop by the Seven Magic Mountains art exhibit about 20 minutes out of Vegas for a colorful desert art installation to kick off your trip.

After you check into the Flamingo Hotel, head straight to Margaritaville for a frozen Wildberry Colada and you’ll immediately feel like you’re on vacation.

Then, head to the GO Pool and soak up the sun. Relax in a lounger by the pool, or float in a flamingo float with a Vegas Vice in your hand and take in the views of the Eiffel Tower, the High Roller, and all of the palm trees.

Now that you’re feeling relaxed, it’s time to get the lay of the land. Head out of the Flamingo and check out the shops at the LINQ Promenade. Get a view of the city from the High Roller observation wheel and take in the sights. 

For dinner, I recommend heading to La Comida for a famous local restaurant.

Now that dinner is over, it’s time for some entertainment. Head over to Caesars’ to catch the live show, Absinthe. Order an Absinthe cocktail, and head into the tent for a performance you won’t forget. If you still have time, catch one of the Brilliant Experience light shows at the Neon Museum.