LEE CANYON DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
Lee Canyon offers a refreshing escape from the Las Vegas heat just one hour outside from Las Vegas nestled in the Spring Mountains at an elevation of 8,660 feet, Lee Canyon is a perfect retreat from the desert sun, with temperatures consistently 30 to 40 degrees cooler than the city.
One reason to visit Lee Canyon is it’s Downhill Mountain Bike Park. Lee Canyon’s downhill mountain bike park offers youth and adult mountain bike rentals and safety equipment like helmets and elbow and knee pads. And a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced mountain biking terrains, including all kinds of jump trails and single tracks.
Bike riders have a choice of a guided experience of the bike park’s green trail. It is designed for people aged 13 and older and offered daily at 10 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. Previous downhill mountain bike experience is not necessary, though people should be confident riding a two-wheel bicycle.
In my case I started off with a lesson by one of the mountain bike guides provided which was very helpful and an awesome experience to get know all the tricks and turns before getting on the lift to head up to the trails. The green trail is definitely a good starting point for beginners since the terrain is easier which in my case worked out better for me to get know the trail and practice to get comfortable.
It was such a great experience I only can recommend it and definitely will visit again for another downhill ride.
Other trails include more difficult, most difficult, extremely difficult. The bike park is open daily from 10 am. to 6 pm.
Other amenities at Lee Canyon include a cozy base lodge with a cafe, grill, and elevated bar and lounge experience. Plenty of hiking trails and wildlife to watch up close and personal.
Lee Canyon is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.leecanyonlv.com
La Casa del Camino, where Spanish-Style meets California Surf
The beautiful historic La Casa del Camino hotel is located in the heart of Laguna Beach with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. Striking colorful rooms with beautiful vintage touches to make you feel welcome and guarantee a unique experience.
Have lunch or dinner at the Rooftop Lounge which has a great menu for everybody’s taste with a beautiful panoramic view overlooking the Pacific Ocean and to watch the sunset for a romantic relaxing evening.
Enjoy the daily happy hour to top of the day after swimming or surfing at the beautiful beaches within walking distance. Breakfast is served daily, with specialty juices to cleanse and energize your body. Wi-Fi and parking are also included in the daily resort fee. Complimentary beach towels, chairs and umbrellas are available on the first come basis, first serve basis.
The guestrooms at La Casa del Camino hotel range in design. Guests have the options of staying in the Spanish-style rooms, Casa Surf Rooms, or La Casita. These rooms all display the hotel’s character and come with a courtyard, village, or partial ocean views.
Casa surf rooms are decorated with hand-painted surfboards, murals on the walls, vibrant colors, and unique accents. In fact, no two surf rooms are the same. They all range in design, décor, and Cali surf vibes.
The two restaurants on-site at La Casa del Camino include Comedor and The Rooftop. Both are open daily and provide happy hour specials for guests.
La Casa del Camino is also located just steps away from the sandy ocean shore. At the beach, guests can swim, surf, or take an evening stroll by the water.
La Casa del Camino has been a Laguna Beach landmark since it first opened its doors in 1929, and its rooftop bar is so popular it can be tough to make a reservation. The lobby bar is very lively and features live music and a cozy fireplace to relax and hang out.
La Casa del Camino is also a Pet Friendly Hotel.
In-Room Amenities include:
- Beautiful Hand-Carved Furnishings
- Flat-Screen TV
- In-Room Desk
- Portable Air Conditioner
- Wi-Fi
- Mini-Fridge
- In-Room Safe
- Convenience USB Hubs
- High Quality Terry
- Bath Amenities
La Casa Del Camino is located at 289 S. Coast Highway,
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Reservations: (949) 497-6029
Phone: (949) 497-6029
Email: [email protected]
Desert Ranch Experience by Camel Safari
The Camel Safari Desert Ranch Experience offers the different tours to choose from.
Feed With A Keeper Safari
A three hour, behind the scenes tour and animal encounters with the keepers of Camel Safari
Adults: $99.00/each
Children (3-15): $79.00/each
Under 3 years: Free
Up to 25 guests
3-hour duration. 8:00 am to 11:00 am
Whether you have always wanted to be a zookeeper and have the chance to go behind the scenes to care for some amazing animals or you are just looking for a relaxing day outside surrounded by animals the Feed With A Keeper Safari is the perfect outdoor adventure for you!
Accompany keepers onto the 176 acre property on a safari tram on the morning rounds of feeding each of the over 30 camels that call Camel Safari home. Learning about the history of camelids, their amazing adaptations and even getting extra close to one of our ambassador camels! Guests then accompany keepers to visit each of the exotic animals on the property. From camels to sand cats to an African crested porcupine guests will have the opportunity to join the keeper in these morning feeding duties, have amazing encounters and ask questions along the way.
Cold beverages and frozen treats are included, we encourage guests to bring snacks if they please
Day Glamp Camp Safari
Animal Encounter Safari | 3 Hours | Up to 10 People
Adults: $99.00/each
Children (3-15): $79.00/each
Under 3 years: Free
Up to 10 people
3-hour duration. 11:30 am to 2:20 pm
The Day Glamp Camp Safari is an outdoor adventure the whole family will enjoy! Groups will enjoy a ride onto the 176 acre property aboard the Safari Tram and will accompany keepers on a tour of Camel Safari with animal encounters and educational programs along the way. In addition to animal encounters and a hands-on encounter with an ambassador camel, guests will enjoy Bactrian camel fiber crafts and access to our picnic table area where cold beverages and frozen treats are included and available.
VIP Sunset Safari
Nocturnal animal encounters and a beautiful desert sunset
$1,000
- Up to 15 people included in pricing.
*Thursdays and Sundays - 3 hours on the property. 4:30-7:30 pm
(Exact times subject to change, dependant on sunset)
On this unforgettable VIP experience, up to 10 guests will tour the property on safari golf carts getting up-close encounters with our camels and nocturnal animals. After the safari adventure, guests will unwind at our picnic tables with a selection of hot and cold beverages while enjoying a desert sunset.
This safari soiree can also include a delicious dinner for an additional charge.
For information visit https://www.camelsafari.com/
For more information and booking visit https://desertranchexperience.com/
360° ThermaQuilt 3-in-1 Hammock Underquilt, Blanket and Sleeping Bag
S.P. – Absolutely amazing 3-1 very lightweight and easy to travel with super comfy and warm.
Don’t let cold weather keep you inside when you can turn your hammock into a warm, cozy cocoon with this versatile hammock underquilt. The Grand Trunk 360° ThermaQuilt completely wraps around any hammock and cinches at the ends to keep the warm air in and cold air out. Or lay it flat to use as a blanket or traditional sleeping bag. Zip into warmth and stretch out underneath the stars; you’ll be well-rested for the new day’s journey! Features
Versatile design can be used as hammock underquilt/overquilt, sleeping bag or blanket
Stay warm & dry in temperatures as low as 40 degrees
Cord tunnel with cinch lock to keep the breeze out
Water Resistant
Specifications
Outer Material: 20 Ripstop Nylon with DWR coating
Insulation: Synthetic 140 GSM fill rated down to 40 degrees
Capacity: 500 lbs
Weight: 29 oz / 822 g
Unfolded Dimensions: 5’4” x 6’8”
Stuffed Dimensions: 7.5” x 15”
The DELSEY holiday gift guide features something for every traveler
Each DELSEY collection is created to provide travelers with the smart accompaniment they need for confident travel… #theconfidentmove
Destination: UGANDA
Uganda is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa; with fantastic natural scenery. Half of the world′s remaining mountain gorilla population is in Uganda. It also offers world-class white water rafting at the source of Nile and some of the region′s more peaceful national parks, where wildlife viewing doesn′t involve long waits in line behind a dozen or more vehicles. The natural attraction is among the best in the region, and as tourism is still being re-established, there simply aren′t the crowds found elsewhere. Take your pick from the highest mountain range in Africa, the Ruwenzori Mountains; one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, Murchison Falls; or perhaps the highest primate density in the world, in Kibale Forest National Park -Uganda has all this and more. It′s a beautiful country with a great deal to offer.
Ecologically, Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African jungle. Where else but in this impossibly lush country can one observe lions prowling the open plains in the morning and track chimpanzees through the rainforest undergrowth the same afternoon, then the next day navigate tropical channels teeming with hippos and crocodiles before setting off into the misty mountains to stare deep into the eyes of a mountain gorilla? Certainly, Uganda is the only safari destination whose range of forest primates is as impressive as its selection of plains antelopes. And this verdant biodiversity is further attested to by Uganda’s status as by far the smallest of the four African countries whose bird checklist tops the 1,000 mark.
LOCATION: Uganda is a landlocked country astride the equator, about 800 kilometers inland from the Indian Ocean. It lies on the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria, extending from 1 south to 4 north latitude and 30 to 35 east longitude. Uganda is bordered by Tanzania and Rwanda to the south, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the west, Sudan to the north, and Kenya to the east. With a land surface of 241,139 square kilometers.
PEOPLE AND CULTURE: Situated at the geographical heart of the African continent, Uganda has long been a cultural melting pot, as evidenced by the existence of 30-plus different indigenous languages belonging to five distinct linguistic groups, and an equally diverse cultural mosaic of music, art and handicrafts. The country’s most ancient inhabitants, confined to the hilly southwest, are the Batwa and Bambuti Pygmies, relics of the hunter-gatherer cultures that once occupied much of East Africa to leave behind a rich legacy of rock paintings, such as at the Nyero Rock Shelter near Kumi. At the cultural core of modern-day Uganda lie the Bantuspeaking kingdoms of Buganda, Bunyoro, Ankole and Toro, whose traditional monarchs – reinstated in the 1990s and serving as important cultural figureheads. According to oral tradition, these centuries-old kingdoms are offshoots of the mediaeval kingdoms of Batembuzi and Bachwezi, which lay in the vicinity of present-day Mubende and Ntusi, where archaeological evidence suggests that a strongly centralized polity had emerged by the 11th century. Three former kings of Buganda are buried in an impressive traditional thatched building at the Kasubi Tombs in Kampala.
CLIMATE:
Uganda boasts of temperate climate even though a bulky of its area is in the tropics with varying temperatures of 16 26°C (April – November), and over 30°C during warm seasons (December – March). It also harbours the world′s second largest lake the Victoria, the source of the world′s second longest river, the Nile.
TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION:
Currently there is one International Airport at Entebbe. A number of international airlines fly directly to Entebbe, among them South Africa Airways, British Airways, Emirates Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Kenya Airways, KLM, Egypt air, Ethiopian Airways, Turkish Air among others. Most major towns have an airstrip as do most National Parks and Game Reserves. There is no shortage of hotels of all qualities in Kampala and most other towns can offer tourist standard hotel accommodation. Most National Parks also have a choice of accommodation ranging from campsites to luxury safari lodges.
Travel within Uganda is relatively straight forward, most major roads being in good or reasonable condition. Once off the major roads conditions are more difficult and 4 x4 vehicles are recommended.
ECONOMIC PROFILE AND CURRENCY:
Consistently ranked among Africa’s fastest growing economies since 1986, Uganda has experienced a steady expansion infrastructure, and a corresponding increase in international tourist arrivals and upmarket facilities. Uganda Shillings is the local currency but it is advisable to carry American dollars (the series should not be less than the year 2000) or Traveler’s cheques or any more hard currency. There are numerous Forex bureau and banks in the capital and the man towns. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but generally it is best to carry cash upcountry.
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
The climate is good in Uganda all year round, day time temperatures generally hovering between 24 -28C. It cools down considerably at night, enough for a jersey but woolens are not necessary. The rains come twice a year, in October/November (short rains) and mid- March to end of May. Rainy season is no reason to postpone travel however, as generally it rains for an hour and the rest of the day is clear and sunny.
VISAS:
Visas are now necessary for most Nationals and should be obtained prior to travel .You can also get a visa upon arrival at the airport.
HEALTH:
Yellow Fever vaccinations are mandatory, and we recommend anti – malarial tablets, especially during the rainy season. Most prescription drugs can be bought affordably and with ease over the counter in Kampala. Personal Insurance is advised.
CHARGE YOUR PHONE, CHANGE THE PLANET
A PATENTED, PRE-CHARGED, DISPOSABLE EMERGENCY mobile device charger that is actually GOOD for the environment. With REPURPOSED & REFURBISHED BATTERIES, BIODEGRADABLE SHELL, weatherproof packaging and a 2 year shelf life. Every time a CHARGETAB is purchased, there is one less battery headed for landfills.
There is no other product like Chargetab on the market. Chargetab plugs directly into your device without the need for any extra wires, giving you the convenience of battery life anytime, anywhere.
A necessity for the traveller or anyone on the go, lightweight and individually packaged in weatherproof packaging, a Chargetab is the ideal product for your day pack, carry-on or briefcase
● Compatible with any Apple or Android devices
● 1500 mAh Li-Polymer battery
● Recycled, Refurbished, Repurposed Lithium Batteries
● On-off Switch
● Biodegradable Shell
● 2-Year Shelf Life ● Up to 4 Hours of Talk & Text
At Chargetab, we care deeply about our environmental impact and carbon footprint, which is why our non-toxic lithium batteries are repurposed, rescued from landfills and given a new life. Additionally, we developed a proprietary biodegradable paper shell, as we did not want to introduce even more PVC plastic into the world. We encourage all Chargetab users to please recycle through our FREE recycling program.
The 2019 International Travel Goods Show
The TGA was held from March 26-28 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
The Travel Goods Show, the world’s largest trade show for travel products. With more than 2,000 lines representing more than 40,000 products, The Show is the annual must-see event that sets the tone for the travel goods industry. Sponsored by Travel Goods Association. The Travel Goods Association is the international organization for the travel goods industry. Members include manufacturers, distributors, retailers, promoters, sales representatives and suppliers of luggage and travel products, casual bags, briefcases and computer bags, and business and travel accessories for travelers.
Product Innovation Awards | |
• Best New Design – Luggage | Rollux by FUGU Luggage |
• Best New Design – Business | Travel Pack by NOMATIC |
• Best New Design – Accessories | Airhook 2.0 by Airhook |
• Best Use of Technology | Get Set Luggage |
• Most Eco-Friendly Product | 3-in-1 Gear Bag by LiteGear |
The Buzz Award | |
• Torq Carry-on Spinner | by Briggs & Riley |
Best Booth Award | |
• 100 Sq. Ft. | Bracketron |
• 200-300 Sq. Ft. | Brookstone Travel Accessories |
• 400-600 Sq. Ft. | Matador |
New Product Showcase at The 2019 International Travel Goods Show
By S.P.
When we created Mix•o•logie, we didn’t want to just “make scents.” We wanted to make sense of what we (as girls, women, or just as people) feel internally, of our relationship with the world and each other, and of our identities. That’s why each of Mix•o•logie’s ten fragrances is beautifully and mindfully blended to express who you are when you are.
As a gift to yourself or a gift to someone else, Mix•o•logie is intended to be experienced (and to empower) over and over again—not just when you open the box for the first time. More than just great smelling products, Mix•o•logie is an exercise and a celebration of experimentation, individuality, and evolution.
The Airhook is a two-in-one solution for airplane travel comfort: a stable drink holder and a secure mount for an electronics device. The Airhook uses the tray table in its vertical and locked position as an anchor, rather than horizontally across your lap as a platform. NEW features include a stabilizer bar that makes setup more secure, a convertible mode where the drink holder folds away when not in use, a separate device perch for full range of viewing, and integrated can support.
With the Qdapter, you can safely adapt the local power source to work seamlessly with your electronics. It can be easily stored in your luggage or carry-on. This adapter features a fully grounded system that lets you connect your laptop, tablet, smartphone, camera and other portable electronics internationally without overheating.
The Travel Mat™ will fit any aircraft seat for superior comfort and has 2 inches of high density convoluted foam with a breathable bamboo cover along with a multi functional neck pillow that can be tailored to an individuals needs. We have masterfully designed The Travel Mat™ to roll up compactly so that it can be stored on ones carry-on luggage.
Matador® Freerain24 2.0 is the lightest, most capable, waterproof packable backpack there is. At 6.6 oz, this 24 liter backpack has technical specs unheard of in packable bags. We don’t believe in compromises, the Freerain24 2.0 means you don’t have to either.
The Barrier Method Travel Mask is so comfortable and keeps you protected on the plane.
Rollux is sleek looking, expands from a carry-on to a full-size suitcase in seconds and is built with craftsmanship and durability in mind.
In the air or on the road, the Bracketron Roadtripper Travel Mount safely and securely holds phones, tablets and other mobile devices.
While traveling, use EazyCushion™ as a Seat Divider to provide a comfortable personal armrest, while preventing intrusions from elbows of passengers seated next to you.
pkt. is a high-quality powdered multivitamin that is easy to dissolve, easy to swallow, and easy to digest.
The Crossbar is a spring loaded coupling for The Airhook that fits within a vehicle’s headrest and luggage handlebars. Simply extend to the correct size, lock into place, and then slide The Airhook’s tray table anchor into the back slot. Good to go!
This work of art in on the move! Geo shapes trick out this travel bag with a unique, enticing look that’ll elevate your travel style.
Plane It Safe’s – Travel Safety Kit has you covered from head to toe. Starting with our tread soled foot covers to protect you from Big Foot’s nasty feet when walking through TSA security. Or our 4-Ply carbon filtered face masks to keep the flu with the guy next to you. We’re your indoor parachute – keeping you healthy, safe and clean.
Reusable, collapsible water bottles for travel, fitness, active lifestyles.
The Captain Zip Around Backpack.
This work of art in on the move! Geo shapes trick out this travel bag with a unique, enticing look that’ll elevate your travel style.
Posh Pollution Mask reduces the effects of pollutants, pollen, fumes, dust, and odors.
The Expedition Crossbody bag can hold US Passports, smaller purses and checkbooks, your stack of foreign currency, cell phone, mini-camera, keys, lip gloss, hair elastics, and all the change that is fit to carry. Very scalable cross-body bag that flexes to accommodate whatever you pack yet manages to stay sleek due to its super-thin nylon-microfiber nature. And light enough that even filled, it is easy to trek through the mountains of Europe and sail through the oceans of the South Pacific, knowing all your stuff is close at at hand. The top full zip also deters potential pickpockets.
This work of art in on the move! Geo shapes trick out this travel bag with a unique, enticing look that’ll elevate your travel style.
Top design trolley to make shopping easy, pleasant and fun.
Stop motion sickness & morning sickness in style! Get fast nausea relief with Blisslets, the only anti-nausea bracelets that are also beautiful jewelry. Ease sea sickness, car sickness, pregnancy, migraines, vertigo, or chemo–without drugs or frumpy wristbands.
Wherever you go, The Highlander Backpack makes it easier.
Book a solo trip around the world. Visit friends in the town over. Take a much needed family vacation. Or simply head to the office for the day.
Scoocase is an electric scooter suitcase specially designed for making your commute in airports simple. With its built in skateboard, high-quality wheels, and innovative steering, traveling becomes easier than ever.
A Long Time Ago (1977) In Death Valley (Not That Far, Far Away) A Director Introduced Us To A Film That Became A Cultural Phenomenon
While Much Of The Galaxy Was In Studios
Some Of The Movie Was Filmed On Earth
And It’s Still There. In Death Valley National Park, U.S.A.
When families and people watch the 1977 movie Star Wars is at The Oasis at Death Valley, it starts inevitable tales of when the movie’s director came to this true American Oasis in 3.3 million square miles of desert, oasis and mountain national park to film and transport people to another galaxy.
Past generations of employees have shared stories with newer generations and certainly know where the movie locations are. These include the breathtakingly and picturesque locations throughout Death Valley National Park including Dante’s View, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Desolations Canyon, Artist’s Drive and Golden Canyon – all just a quick 20 to 40 minute drive from the Resort.
While Death Valley may seem like another universe to vacationers, those in the know have also found an “oasis-like planet” that is the, luxurious, AAA Four-Diamond The Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly The Ranch at Death Valley both part of the recent $100 million renaissance at the Oasis at Death Valley.
So for those that want to pay homage to the real movie locations and sets, this is the place. And if you want to explore the universe, this is the place – it’s one of the only gold-tier designated International Dark Sky Parks in the United States where stargazers can actually see the Milky Way with the naked eye.
In celebration of the epic tale and Hollywood franchise, The Oasis at Death Valley is hyper-spacing an exclusive map for guests leading them to the filming locations that are easily accessible via car. Rates* begin at $309 at The Inn and only $169 at The Ranch at Death Valley. It’s sunny, there is almost no rain, no bugs and Oasis features massive swimming pools, gardens, golf, tennis, horseback riding, numerous restaurants, date palm groves, a general store, post office and ample lush lawns to run and play on, or do just nothing but take in the stunning scenery during the day and stars at night.
For information, details and reservations, access www.oasisatdeathvalley.com or dial 800-236-7916.
Las Vegas Downtown’s Thunderbird Hotel Gets A Retro Makeover
By S.P.
Located north of the Strip and south of downtown, a place of diners, neon wedding chapels, scooter rentals, strip clubs, pawn shops and the famous Luv-It Frozen Custard, is the new remodeled Thunderbird Boutique Hotel & Lounge located in the middle of the action and somehow remote.
California-based developer Ilan Gorodezki and his partners purchased the property in 2016. In 2017, the developer considered turning the property, once known as the Aruba, into a 15-story, 370-unit mixed-use apartment and retail space called the Thunderbird Lofts, according to reports.
The plans upset some residents in nearby neighborhoods, who thought the tower might dilute the area’s historic atmosphere. Despite receiving approval from Las Vegas, the developers ultimately opted to keep the original two-story motel structure intact and simply remodeled it.
What’s New:
More than $5 million of renovations later, the revamped Thunderbird is gleaming with new life and a classic Las Vegas allure. The Garden of Love wedding chapel perfectly encapsulates the renewed property. A majestic 60- to 100-year-old pine tree stands for an altar. Only the trunk and a few bottom branches are visible because it grows through a glass roof and soars into the sky. Dappled sunlight shines down upon the place where a couple would stand. The tree gives a sense of almost magical spirituality to the room, a reprieve in the midst of white marble floors and Las Vegas glitz.
The tree is one of those strokes of genius that only come about via a thoughtful remodel. Originally, the tree was growing in an outdoor courtyard and was slated to be chopped down to make way for a new vision. Instead of being removed, it was made into a centerpiece, creating something better than brand new. Prices range from $300-$700 (not including minister fee) for the 60-person chapel. The high-end “Majestic” package includes champagne toast, online ceremony live stream, unity candle or sand ceremony, flowers, custom music, digital photos and DVD, a personal wedding coordinator and use of the “royal bridal room with refreshments.” The second and smaller chapel is more traditionally Vegas. Called the Crystal Wedding Chapel, it boasts crystal chandeliers and a bedazzled podium. It holds up to 40 guests, and prices range from $100 to $500 (minister fee not included). Petra Doerr, who runs the wedding chapel, says they were going for something “modern, unique and clean.” Previously, the smaller chapel had a very masculine feel. Doerr took it in a more feminine direction and added “a little Las Vegas glitter.”
The Rooms:
“It’s easier to build than repair,” said, Shay Mordo, the director of operations. “But the vision was, ‘Let’s go make it happen, no matter what.’” The 100 hotel rooms have a comfortably modern look. Rustic wood headboards give an earthy vibe, which balances some of the shinier mid-century modern highlights, such as trendy rugs and lamps. A turquoise, orange and yellow color scheme keep it interesting. The exterior doors of the rooms are painted in alternating orange and yellow-green. The small lobby continues the visual theme, with sleek concrete floors, walls that have been clad in the reclaimed wood, and a single graphic lime-green painting for decoration.
Located in a separate building, the carefully decorated “Presidential” suite overlooks the outdoor pool. There are also eight junior suites. Areas that would once have been dead space have been upgraded to outdoor lounges. These small islands of leisure space boast trendy outdoor furniture and lighting — like little islands of cool. An empty rooftop outside some second-story rooms is primed to be a future garden seating area. “There are always more projects,” Mordo jokingly said. “Always something to do.” Weekend prices range from about $190 per night for a 200-square-foot single queen room to $360 per night for a 600-square-foot premium suite. Weeknight prices range from $45 to $195 per night, respectively.
Entertainment options:
Throughout its history, the Thunderbird has often hosted live performances. It also has been a hotspot for the swing dance crowd in addition to hosting the Neon Reverb music festival about a decade ago. A revamped 3,500-square-foot showroom can hold up to 300 or 350 guests, depending on the configuration. The numbers are big, but also small in comparison to the titans on the Strip. Sitting in the new disc jockey booth, Mordo clicks through the new lighting configurations to show that the room is ready to party. In addition to the showroom, the lounge has a small stage and projector, allowing for a second, more intimate event venue.
Even Mordo admits the Thunderbird is not located in the best part of town. The area is huge on vintage charm, which also includes a local homeless population. But the rough edges belie a possible bright future. It’s one of the closest hotels to the Arts District, which is finally gaining steam. And it’s near offbeat attractions such as Zak Bagans’ Haunted Museum and the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop. The Thunderbird has managed to make itself new without sacrificing its history, and it’s uniquely situated for the next iteration of Las Vegas. “The current owners have done an admirable job with cleaning up that property over the past few years, said Realtor Steven Franklin, who goes by the nickname Downtown Steve. “It’s certainly an improvement from what it had been.”
Eatery:
Historic photos of Old Vegas line the hallway to the lounge and restaurant. Some of the photos depict the former Strip hotel also called the Thunderbird — no relation, except perhaps spiritual. Kelley Jones Hospitality in partnership with Todd Parmelee have built a new food and beverage program for the modern Thunderbird which features hearty crowd-pleasers, such as a “Hangover” breakfast burrito, pork belly sliders, a steak and potato wrap, fish and chips, flatbreads and a veggie burger. The lounge offers bartop gaming, pool, beer pong and a full bar. Cocktails include Bloody Marys, the Blue Suede Shoes (orange and grapefruit vodka, citrus juices, blue curaçao and lemon-lime soda) and the 1948 Cocktail (whiskey, Aperol, vermouth and chocolate bitters).
Located at: Thunderbird Boutique Hotel, 1215 Las Vegas Blvd. South, NV 89104-1307
FLY LINQ takes Las Vegas zip lines to new heights
By S.P.
FLY LINQ, the first zipline attraction on the Las Vegas Strip debuted in early November. Fly Linq lets you soar above the popular promenade on your way to the other side in the sky, the High Roller Observation Wheel.
The newly opened FLY LINQ zipline sends thrill seekers soaring more than 1,000 feet across the LINQ Promenade towards the High Roller Observation Wheel.
After getting your ticket at the center strip box office on The Promenade, the expectancy grows as you take the elevator up to the launch level, and go through the safety steps and get strapped into a harness for the launch. The wait is short and before you know it you fly. From here on out, it’s all heart pumping adrenaline and that’s the best way to describe it. Zooming down the wire at speeds exceeding 30 mph is so much fun that you’re going to want to ride it again.
The FLY LINQ is located at the The LINQ Promenade
Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Tickets: $25 for daytime flights (before 5 p.m.), $30 for nighttime flights (after 5 p.m.)
Restrictions: You must be between 80 – 300 pounds or 36 – 136 kilograms.