While many may be attracted to the bright lights of Las Vegas in response to the call of the casinos and all-night partying, there’s an unexpected side to the city synonymous with relaxation, exhilaration and rejuvenation. Rather than heading to the all-you-can-eat buffets and slot machines, take a closer look at the natural world surrounding Las Vegas and the plethora of fun activities it can offer to those looking to experience an unusual aspect of the city famed for its gambling.
Walking
Walking in and around Las Vegas offers a dual possibility for either taking in the sights or discovering the natural wonders outside the city. The famed Las Vegas Boulevard, also known as “The Strip” covers almost four miles and adding visits to see sights such as the Statue of Liberty in miniature and the Stratosphere tower will mean much more walking than you expect. Take a bottle of water and some comfortable shoes to make the most of this experience.
Outside of the center, South Nevada has walks and hikes that cater to beginners right through to experienced mountaineers.
Sky diving
Sky diving offers the perfect opportunity to take in the views surrounding Las Vegas, Red Rock National Park and Mount Charleston, and there are several companies based on or near The Strip. Beginners can take part in a tandem sky dive with an instructor from 15,000 feet.
If the weather is bad or for those scared of heights, indoor sky diving is also available to experience the fun of freefall flight. In this version of the sport, flyers enter a large wind tunnel with a huge fan at one end which is powerful enough to give the sensation of freefall flight, but only lifts participants a few feet from the ground. Again this activity is based near The Strip.
Experts at Skydiving magazine recommend that anyone who has a condition they feel may impair their enjoyment of sky diving should see a physician before taking part. They also advise that conditions such as epilepsy, obesity and heart problems may preclude someone from participating.
Spa
For the ultimate in indulgence, a visit to a spa can offer rejuvenation and relaxation. Most hotels will combine a spa and gym visit for double the opportunity to get fit and get rid of the stresses and strains of every day life. Popular spa treatments include Bally’s Champagne and Caviar Facial and The Hibiscus Spa Pineapple Papaya Scrub. Favorite facilities include eucalyptus steam rooms, Rasul chambers and green tea baths.
Land sailing
Land sailing, also called land yachting, is a means of travelling across land using a wheeled vehicle that is powered by a sail. These vehicles are known as land yachts or sail wagons. Just 30 minutes from The Strip, land sailing lessons and races are available, allowing teams or solo sailors to race through the dessert.
Cooking
With the wealth of eateries available in Las Vegas, it comes as no surprise that food is big business there. Take advantage of that by visiting one of the many cooking demonstrations taking place at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Las Vegas. Or take part in a healthy cooking class at the Creative Cooking School of Las Vegas, which offers classes such as Summer Picnic In The Park and Low Fat and Heart Healthy.
Changes to the diet can have a positive effect on health and conditions such as obesity, hyperthyroidism and, as recently reported by the National Spanish Research Council in Valencia, celiac disease. In these cases advice should be sought from your medical professional.
[Written for Livestrong.com]
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