Beyond "The Strip"

View of Las Vegas "Strip" from the Green Valley Ranch pool

Okay, I'll admit it: up until a couple of weeks ago I was a "Vegas Virgin". 

Sure I *know* the Bellagio, the Four Seasons, the Wynn, the Venetian, Caesars Palace....all properties I've researched and booked on behalf of clients. However, I've never actually *been* to the gambling and partying mecca famous for bad decisions and over-the-top hotels.

After full two days and one night on The Strip, though, I was done - and grateful that the event I was attending that weekend was taking place at the Green Valley Ranch, a Five Star, Four Diamond resort in Henderson - with a beautifully appointed 40,000 sq.ft. Conference Centre.

Yes, there's gaming, but you don't have to wade your way through slot machines to get to your guest elevator, and with "only" 495 guestrooms and 80 suites GVR is, by Vegas standards, practically a boutique hotel.

I particularly loved the pool area, which the event organizers used to full advantage by taking over an entire row of cabanas and hosting a private pool party, and where - as a reformed sun-worshipper - I discovered a number of shady options.