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Monday, December 1, 2014

Five reasons to go to Nevada








With winter well and truly upon us, we're all dreaming of excuses to get up and away to somewhere warm. There aren't many warmer places in the world than a desert, and there certainly aren't many deserts out there as fun as the state of Nevada.




Visitors to this beautiful state may feel like they're in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by sites such as the Grand Canyon in the neighbouring Arizona, but there's actually a lot going on in Nevada – check out any one of these sites if you're looking for somewhere exciting to visit.




The Hoover Dam




If you're driving into Nevada, make sure you do so from Arizona – it will give you a chance to cross over the iconic bridge which not only takes you from one state to another but also gives you the chance to look into the depths of the Hoover Dam. Built during the Depression Era, this magnificent structure has a 3 million cubic yard volume spanning the Colorado River. Visitors can walk around the site for free to get amazing views.




Sierra Safari Zoo




Nevada's largest zoo is home to more than 200 animals with 40 different species. The ideal day out for couples, families or even just lone travellers, the zoo gives guests an insight into the wonders of the animal kingdom. Sloths, lemurs, zebras, camels and leopards are all in abundance, as well as six kinds of monkeys and eight types of wild cats.




Las Vegas




It wouldn't be a complete list without a mention of the City of Sin. Home to bright lights, huge theatre productions, roller coasters and of course, those tempting casinos, this decadent paradise is certainly worth a visit for the risk takers out there. Traditional gaming can seem a little out of fashion nowadays as online alternatives like Gaming Club take centre stage, but there really is nothing quite like a stroll past the Bellagio Fountains before placing a few chips at those blackjack tables.




The Ethel M Chocolate Factory




Who doesn't love an excuse to feel like Willy Wonka? The Ethel M Chocolate Factory is just a stone's throw away from the Las Vegas Boulevard and offers exclusive tours featuring some of the finest chocolate around. Once you're done sampling all the treats, be sure to check out the cactus garden – just make sure your souvenirs don't melt in that Nevada heat.




The Great Reno Balloon Race



If you happen to be visiting Nevada in September, make sure you check out the Great Reno Balloon Race. The annual event sees up to 100 hot air balloons taking to the sky to race and celebrate the joy of flight. The balloons set off from the University of Nevada in Reno and the best part is, this exciting race is completely free.