Well, my stay in Vegas is drawing to an end. I initially couldn’t figure out if I liked the place. The casinos are truly impressive and, objectively speaking, I have to admit some are downright beautiful. I just can’t get past the fact that these beautiful castles were not at all built out of a love of beauty, but rather a love of money.

The city is a strange hodge-podge, a mix of rich and poor, both impressive in their own way, neither in really good taste. Squeezed in between the incredible monuments to opulence that are the casinos, you find all manner of dirty little businesses in disrepair (”Do It Yourself Divorce Kits!” “World’s Best Uncensored Adult Hypnotist!” “Hot Chick Visits Your Room 49$!”). Vegas reminds me of an aging starlet still dressed in sequins, wobbling on stilettos, rhinestones and age spots on full display.

All that being said, when you finally let yourself enter the game and just start taking the city for what it is, basically a giant theme park with free alcohol, I have to admit it can really be a lot of fun. For a few days, by somewhat reserving judgment as best I could, and taking the city on its own terms, well, I’ve had a blast. A blast I’m glad to be ending today, but a wonderful time nonetheless.