What are the best pools and shows in Las Vegas?

Part 2 of a 2-part series

Life is always full of the unexpected -- no matter how much you plan, dream or hope for the future it seldom holds the reality of what you imagined. This I found to be the case as I returned to Las Vegas to finish the second half of this two-part article. Previously I had discussed the top luxury hotels in Las Vegas with a promise for a taste of the best pools and shows.

As I inspected and enjoyed (of course) the 5-star amenities of The Bellagio, The Venetian, Mandalay Bay and of course Caesars Palace, I also scouted out activities I knew would be a must-see when I returned with sons Skyler and Levi in tow.

As I packed, I mapped out each exciting moment in my head. Words of wisdom -- don't. Your trip or vacation will never be exactly how you imagined it. Also, if you travel with a spouse, significant other or especially children, chances are they will be dazzled by what you least expect.

You can get around Las Vegas several ways -- cab, limousine, shuttle. I think taking a limousine, although slightly more expensive, is worth every penny. For one thing it certainly is faster, less stressful, and you know up front what it costs. Also, you get something extra -- a personal tour guide who can tell you all about the area, who is in town, and what you must do while there.

One important tip is to always get your driver's personal card. Most limousine drivers can provide you their personal business card with a direct cell phone number. I found this to be most valuable one night when we came out of Treasure Island and the cab line was a mile long and the wait for a cab was 45 minutes.

One of the best limo drivers I've found is Troy Smith. You can reach him at 1-702-807-4743. This is a number I wouldn't go to Las Vegas without! Skyler was thrilled his limo was his favorite color, white, and I had to remind Levi the large seats could not be jumped on like a bed. Then every three minutes whispered, "Don't touch those buttons" followed by "No you can't call the president from this phone."

My little gremlins were especially drawn to the television set. Troy was especially accommodating and instead of taking us the back way to the hotel gave us the scenic tour down Las Vegas Boulevard. If it's your first time to Las Vegas, ask your driver to take you down Las Vegas Boulevard and enjoy the sites before you land at your hotel.

I selected the Flamingo Hotel for my stay based on location, but especially the swimming pool that has numerous waterslides and terrific children's pools. The location worked very well for us, but the service at the hotel is horrible, which I discovered when my son became terribly sick and room service for soup averaged 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours. Also, there are three unsecured open entrances to their pool areas with only one entrance with a security guard who was seldom present.

Also no room key is required to get a pool towel, so there were pool towels thrown all over the hotel grounds. The pool is filled daily with not only hotel guests but Nevada residents within a 30-mile radius. Several people told me they lived in Nevada, and all the locals came to the pool because there is no security by the back entrance, by the bar or by the entrance to the waterslides. Thus your personal items are not safe, you can't let your children out of your sight and the pool is packed.

The Flamingo, which previously I had considered a good choice for the pool, is completely out of the running, and I have listed my best choices:

1. Mandalay Bay -- This is the one if you are looking for pool paradise.

2. Hard Rock Cafe -- The director of sales wanted it relayed they do not cater to nor desire children. They are a more adult-focused property.

3. Mirage -- Great pool with a peaceful atmosphere, waterfalls and it has just undergone a tremendous remodeling.

4. Bellagio and Caesars -- For sheer beauty.

5. MGM for Kids -- One of the most surprising discoveries was Treasure Island actually made their pool smaller! The life guard said they wanted to discourage the "family" atmosphere and be more a sunning pool. The pond in my back yard is bigger than their pool!

The best shows

Wow, what a paradise of shows! Your entertainment itch can certainly be scratched in Las Vegas.

1. "O" by Cirque de Soile at the Bellagio -- Tickets average about $100 to $125, and worth every single penny. I love it and would see it over and over if I could. The talent is mind boggling, the special effects are unmatched anywhere in the world. This show is intertwined humor and set on a stage that cost millions. Buy your tickets early since this show sells out every night.

2. Mystery by Critique De Sile at Treasure Island -- A close second, and it's everything I said about "O" but without the water. My kids loved it. My 4-year-old didn't say a word -- he just sat in awe. That in itself should tell you it is a double thumbs up.

3. Sigfreid and Roy -- This long-running show is a must-see, especially if you have young ones.

4. David Copperfield -- I really had a great time, sat in the second row and still can't figure out how he made 12 studio members vanish.

5. Danny Gans -- This guy is a riot. Some one you will want to see every time you return.

6. Celine Dion -- She is new in town. Tickets start at $86. Book early since she sells out every night.

7. Imperial Palace - The best freebie in town. The car show is awesome, and any good agent can get you free passes. My son took two rolls of film of every awesome car there!

Carolyn Kempf is president of Elite Travel in Cape Girardeau. (334-1234 or carolyn@elitetravelinc.com)