Vegas in the time of Corona.

Traveling during this time seems like such a taboo subject, but a socially distant getaway has been a welcomed distraction for many.

Recently I took a trip to sunny Las Vegas, and it was a much different trip than I have ever taken before.

I stayed at the MGM Grand, and from the start, the social distancing and cleaning measures were very omnipresent. Masks are required at all times in the casino and the hotel, though a few people got away with just a face shield.

If you have forgotten a mask for whatever reason, there is security personnel ready to hand you a disposable mask with tongs.

The hotel strongly encouraged downloading the App and offering guests self-check-in options with limited contact. Upon check-in, a hotel key was needed to activate the elevator floors and would only work for the floor you were staying.

When I arrived at my room, there was a “seal” on the door to show that my room had been cleaned and untouched. Inside the room, I also found the remotes wrapped in plastic and a complimentary sanitary kit.

Inside the kit were two face masks, a hand sanitizer, and two metal tools to pull open doors and push buttons.

Moving on to other amenities at the hotel, not all options were open. At the time of my trip, all bars were closed, but indoor dining was allowed. The spa was also closed but was still allowing massages without access to the communal amenities such as the whirlpool.

What about the pool?! This is the question many people have when visiting Vegas, especially with the summer heat. I am here to say the pools at the MGM were indeed open but with a catch.

All pools had a capacity limit that was relatively small, and for that reason, I highly suggest getting there when they open. Masks are required at all times unless you are in the pool, eating, or drinking, and yes, they enforce it heavily.

I had a few friends staying at the Flamingo, so I can give some information on that pool as well, and their situation is a bit trickier. The Flamingo pool requires a reservation to attend. The reservations open at 10:00 a.m., and you have about 10 minutes after you have been notified your reservation is ready to get to the pool.

Though I did visit on the weekend the crowds were significantly thinned out for Vegas, and I did witness the scooters that I had heard so much about. It seems during this time with fewer crowds more people are renting scooters usually reserved for the disabled or injured to get around the casinos.

To round things up, what’s so different about Vegas right now? There are no shows, clubs, bars, or pool parties. Everyone is wearing masks and trying to social distance.

Is it even worth visiting right now? If you love a good deal, good food, small crowds, and a rare sight of a less crowded Vegas pool, I say absolutely!

Las Vegas relies heavily on tourism and entertainment for its economy and, like every city during this time, it is struggling. If you are within driving distance and need a quick weekend trip, Vegas is ready for you.