Vegas greeted me with contradictions — a disappointing fountain show followed by a breathtaking Eiffel Tower glow that made the whole Strip feel alive. The city has a way of testing you before it rewards you, like it wants to make sure you’re paying attention. Day 2 unfolded like a travel reel with the volume turned all the way up. We arrived in an airline‑crunched sort of way: tired, stiff, and carrying a sleepless hangover from a three‑hour time change. Note to self: value airlines mean no reclining seats, no snacks, no drinks, no TV screens, and no headphone jacks. You get what you pay for, and sometimes you pay in vertebrae. The Cab The $31 cab ride wasn’t glamorous, but it was honest. The driver had that “I’ve seen everything” Vegas energy — no small talk, no fake hospitality, just a steady hand on the wheel and absolutely no knowledge about drone sky shows on the Strip. Note: They must not do those anymore. We didn’t see a single one. But he got us there quickly, weaving thr...