Being situated in Coastal CA is most ideal for us. We have the Pacific on one side, and, in my humble opinion, the most spectacular landscape in all of America on the other side. I am referring to the Southern Utah and Northern Arizona region, where you will find my 2 favorite National Parks – Zion and Grand Canyon.

Located nicely between the ocean and the canyons is Vegas. It serves as a hedonistic pit stop for us before and after our hikes in red rock country. No gambling or anything unsavory, just a small dose of pampering in luxury, and enjoying food we don’t normally get in South Orange County.
To avoid crowds and higher costs in Vegas, the best way is to visit during weekdays. I had initially used our Hilton points at the brand new Virgin Las Vegas, but managed to get a better room at 50% off during the Expedia Travel Week sale a couple weeks ago.

The Virgin Las Vegas is a brand new (remodeled Hard Rock) hotel that opened 3 months ago, with a pool that was just completed several weeks ago. With June temperatures in Nevada easily reaching into triple digit territory, a nice clean pool on the property is imperative.
















The downside to this hotel is that it’s located off strip, which can be a deal breaker for those who want to be on the strip. For us though, it worked out fine since it was just for a night’s stay before we head off for our hiking trip. Can’t beat staying at a new and clean hotel, with all the on site eateries one can ask for, for $95 a night.







