Las Vegas is certainly a place of contrast. I struggled with it all some of the time. But for most of the five days we were there, I was able to surrender to its charms and experience delight and awe. I was especially taken with the service we received. The Signature front desk, concierge, housekeeping and other staff members were all courteous, friendly and very helpful; even bringing us chocolates when they found out we were getting married. Our waiter at Shibuya, Jeffrey, was inspiring in his care of our experience and delightful in expressing his love of living in Las Vegas. The Cirque du Soleil experience always blows my mind (and the lovely folk seating us at Kà were so much fun). Here are some other bright moments:

The most awesome thing we saw: Elvis riding a mobility scooter.

The most awesome thing we saw: Elvis riding a mobility scooter.

Fiori di Como sculptural installation by Dale Chihuly at Belagio.

Fiori di Como sculptural installation by Dale Chihuly at Bellagio.

A wonderful autumnla display at the Conservatory and Botanical Garden at Belagio.

A wonderful autumnal display at the Conservatory and Botanical Garden at Bellagio.

The dancing waters at Belagio. There is video on their website.

The dancing waters at Bellagio. There is video on their website.

Each tower at The Signature has a lovely pool area, which are quiet at this time of year.

Each tower at The Signature has a lovely pool area. They are quiet at this time of year.

GJ makes a friend at the pool.

GJ makes a friend at the pool.