Is doing business in Las Vegas a real thing, or are the lights and action too much of a distraction?
I proved that the former is true. I was recently invited to attend a major corporate gathering at The Wynn (which is, by the way, pretty spectacular).
The meeting space is fairly far from the casino area, which makes getting your steps in while Bleisure Living an easy possibility.
Other pros:
- You have an amazing view of The Sphere. That was especially fitting because the meeting was space-themed.
- The room was big and comfy and, unlike many other Vegas hotels, was designed for working. I didn’t have to search for outlets, and the voice-activated device and tablet enabled me to find exactly what I needed while getting dressed or otherwise puttering around the room. I had a view of the golf course and the mountains—a refreshing change from my usual view of the Strip.
- The hotel staff was efficient and accommodating.
The only con is one that’s common to all the luxury hotels I’ve frequented in Las Vegas: no coffee maker!
I know it’s deliberate because management wants to drive sales for in-casino restaurants. On the bright side, the conference organizers provided free java (although I did break down one morning and drank an overpriced Diet Coke from the mini-bar). If you need your caffeine first thing in the AM, I suggest you bring along some cold brew or (if you’re flying, not driving) a travel-size coffee maker.
If you want to actually get work done while you’re in Vegas (other than at the conference or meeting you’re attending), just exercise discipline.
- Attempt to get enough sleep, and don’t be afraid to leave the casino or business events early.
- Download the event app and look for free time when you can work, take calls, go to the gym (to get those endorphins flowing), or even treat yourself to an after-work spa moment.
- Enjoy Las Vegas’ many food options, but don’t over-indulge.
- Control your alcohol intake so you can wake up a little early to attend to East Coast business and still have enough energy to get through your day.
When packing for a work/play trip in Vegas, look for options that can easily go from day to night. For example, a glitter shrug can add glam to basic black work attire. Heed our advice for poolside working.
Re-entering “real life” after a few days in Vegas may require adjustment. Give yourself some grace and about 24 hours to re-group. You may still hear slot machines ringing or the lingering smell of smoke, but you’ll soon return to normalcy.
Until next time….
