I've been to Las Vegas twice, once when I was about 8 or 9, and again in the past year. This sin city has never been very sinful for me, but it has changed quite a bit in last decade or so. Some things, however, comfortingly remained the same. Landmarks such as the Venetian, Bellagio, M&M Grand, Circus Circus, Treasure Island, and the Luxor still stand tall, though they are somewhat overshadowed by the colossal new additions to the strip. 

The Bellagio remained as stately as ever, aging ever so gracefully. Its large musical fountain at the front of the hotel still puts on quite an impressive show, even a decade later. 

One of my clearest memories from my childhood visit here was how real the sky in the Venetian looked. Specifically going back to be astonished once more, I realized everything looked larger and more real, it seems, when one was young.

The Wynn was an addition to the strip not here a decade ago. Its outdoor bar Parasol Down features a waterfall and courtyard. A good place to stop for a drink, if you're touring the strip.

The interior of the Wynn can be rather resplendent, often modeled after the splendor of European interiors. I also hear that the buffet here is something of a a gastronomical marvel, and is definitely worth a trip in of itself. 

Las Vegas is definitely a city that transforms by night and day. I find the lights of each hotel make for a more beautiful city by night, but that's just a personal opinion. 

I opted for a show one night, and happened upon the famed "O" by Cirque Du Soleil at the Bellagio. A spectacular spectacle. 

On my more recent trip to the strip with friends, I had a chance to experience the nightlife. One was, ironically, a pool party during the day at The Cosmopolitan's Marquee, which operates both as a dayclub and nightclub. Tao, located in The Venetian, was probably the largest club I've ever been to. Impressive.

As the Grand Canyon is just a few hours drive from the city, its a popular destination for day-trips. Usually, tours will also visit the Hoover Dam en route. 

Tourists can choose many different ways to view the canyon. A more comprehensive option is to take a helicopter flight down to the river in the canyon, take a boat tour to view the canyon from below, and take the helicopter back up. Nowadays, the Grand Canyon area also features a native Navaho village, as well as the glass skywalk that stretches out above the canyon.

Unfortunately, the weather grey skies didn't help to bring forth the red tones from the canyon, though in real life, it is still a majestic sight as ever.

All in all, if you find yourself in sin city with a day to spare, the Grand Canyon should surely be a top choice as a destination.