Death Valley

While dining on pancakes at IHOP in Las Vegas, we contemplated possible destinations for the rest of our stay. For me it had to be Death Valley, and looking at its website, we saw it was partially open. On the website, it's made very clear that you pack for survival. I'm not kidding; it actually says that. Therefore, we drove to a service station on the way, fueled up and bought enough water and food for an army to survive.

As you get closer to Death Valley, it gets hotter and hotter. Also, while there are some residents nearby, they are very few. With 2 1/2 hours of driving, you feel the heat as you drive into the desert, this is a place where death comes easily.

The first point of interest is Zabriskie Point, a nice-looking geological formation. Driving along, you'll see abandoned Borax mines and san dunes. We ventured into the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and as it was 107 degrees, opted not to linger very long. Our turning point was a little motel and market called Furnace Creek Visitor Center.  It's a place to get T-shirts and other "I survived Death Valley " memorabilia.  Heading out of Death Valley put us in the direction of a town called Bennet. Before exiting, there is a ghost town called Rhyolite, which was a casino in the 1800s. (Location-wise its no wonder it's a ghost town). Bennet is a sleepy town with a Subway and mini market shop for lunch options. One Subway sandwich later, we headed back to Las Vegas, with dinner being my choice.

A little known secret of Las Vegas dining is the Chinatown row of restaurants on Spring Mountain Road.  On this stretch, you'll find Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Japanese places to dine. I chose Joyful House, a place that got great reviews. The pandemic hurt business tremendously here, and with little staff and great appreciation, it was a feel-good dining experience. I have lived in China so I can say with confidence these were some of the most exquisite dishes I've had, including the best Hot and Sour soup I've ever tasted. Please go and support these places as ignorance has unfairly hurt them. 

Dining: Subway, a desperate choice in a desperate town.
Dining: Joyful House Chinese cuisine., a meal that will delight you.

Gambling:  $25 Craps table at Caesars Palace My advice here, don't get greedy! Cash out while you can.