Just got back last night, and thought I'd pen this little report in an effort to postpone the enormous pile of work awaiting me today. It's really hard to come back from vacation and go to work. In fact, it sucks.

Here goes: Flew Delta to Vegas on Thursday. Great flight, arrived on time at 4:45. We were staying at Paris, and checked in at the airport. There was no line. I'd highly recommend doing an airport check-in, as the lines at the hotel are horrible. We got lucky when a limo driver approached us and asked us if we wanted a reduced fare - his pick-up had a delayed flight. It was $30 for four of us in a limo. Great way to start the trip.

Arrived at Paris, checked in, room on 9th floor was fine but the view was fairly crappy. Didn't matter as we were only in the room for about 20 mins a day anyway (minus sleeping and getting ready, of course). Room was nice, bed comfortable, bathroom large with a separate shower/tub.

That night we hit the casinos. Started at Bally's, where we met up with everyone. We had about 11 people total, and since we were all coming in at different times, we just stayed there until everyone arrived. We wanted to do a low-key dinner, so we hit Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville at Flamingo. Good food, on par with a Chili's type restaurant. Then, more gambling and on to bed.

Friday was a busy day. One couple with us had never been to Vegas before, so we toured Bellagio, Caesar's, etc. Girls shopped at the Forum Shops while guys won at blackjack. We had massages at the Mandara spa that afternoon. Relaxed in the room and then had dinner at Smith & Wollenskys. Fabulous food, even better service. I don't eat steak (their specialty) but the halibut was delicious. And the truffled mac and cheese will haunt my dreams it was so good. More gambling that night, then to bed.

Saturday was busy. Saw the Venetian, spent ALL afternoon at the Mirage gambling (our party had all 6 seats at the blackjack table - very fun). Then we went to the Wynn. WOW. That place is pretty da*n spectacular.

That night we went to an outdoor bar at Caesar's and got to hear a free Gwen Stefani concert. She was playing a "Pepsi Smash" concert that was set up outdoors at Caesar's. We could hear her and see the screen displaying the entire concert, so it was pretty much like being inside.

More gambling at Caesar's that night. Ended up breaking even after hours and hours of blackjack. Lots of drunk and obnoxious people there on a Saturday night. I'm only 28 and am not a prude by ANY standards, but it was really hard to tell the party girls from the hookers. Especially when they are drunk and breasts are popping out of shirts barely large enough to cover an infant. Oh well, I guess what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas?

Went to bed at 4 on Saturday night. Woke up early Sunday, feeling like crap. Did the buffet at Paris (mediocre) and then gambled a bit before going to the airport for our 4:00 flight.

The BIG BONUS of the weekend: We were scheduled to fly on a 12:30 return flight. Delta called Friday and asked if we'd be willing to take a 4:00 flight and $300 in vouchers. Hmmm... let me think... more time in Vegas AND money towards our next flight to St. Martin? Sure!

Couple of observations: I wouldn't stay at Paris again. It was nice, but public restrooms are hard to find. I thought it was a bit ridiculous that in the buffet (which seat 775 people) there was ONE stall in the women's bathroom. Same in all their restaurants. I'll stay at the Mirage next time. Great dealers, great cocktail waitresses, fabulous pool.

Overall, great trip. I'm tired, bloated, 2-3 pounds heavier, and need a vacation from my vacation. But isn't that what Vegas is all about?