Sin City Pictures
I took these Sin City pictures during my last visit to Vegas. Looking at them makes me a little sad.
You see, I used to love Vegas.
I always thought Las Vegas was a great place because of the high energy, the glitz, the tackiness that is so loud and in-your-face, it somehow turns into something pulled together and very stylish.
I’m not sure what happened, but on my last visit to Sin City, a few weeks ago, I decided that I don’t really like Vegas at all. Perhaps it was the heat – we arrived during a heat wave that brought the temperatures to a sweltering 110 degrees.
Or maybe it was my feminism. I had a very hard time watching all the women displaying their bodies in very short, very tight, very revealing outfits while the men, fully dressed, were ogling them and pretty much treating them as pieces of meat.
One evening in particular, as we were entering the hotel, there were several groups of scantily clad women and fully clothed men. The men were looking at the women with those terrible eyes that view women not as people but as objects; the heat was unbearable; people were carrying drinks while walking around; everyone was really loud; and all I wanted to do was go hide in my hotel room.
And don’t get me started on the gambling and on how awful it is to see a hollow-eyed 70 year old woman wasting her life savings away at the Blackjack table.
Interestingly, as we were walking along The Strip one evening on our way to a Jay Leno performance (he was excellent, by the way), we came across a group of religious activists that were trying really hard to get the attention of the sinners around them, without much success. The contrast between the loud, cheerful, drunk party goers surrounded by neon signs featuring half-naked women, and the solemn activists, was quite striking.
Sin City pictures – the nakedness:
Sin City pictures – the warnings:
Have you been to Las Vegas? Do you like it? What do you think about these Sin City pictures?
Hire Me as a Blogger
Subscribe to this Blog Via Email or Reader
Filed under Travel & Food —
Email This Post,
Subscribe To Comments, Trackback,
I Love San Francisco responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 3:09 pm →
[...] Related Reading: Sin City Pictures [...]
Kelly@SHE-POWER responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 3:27 pm →
I have always wanted to go to Vegas – I guess it’s because I’ve always been intrigued by the seedy side of life and sin city really is in a league of its own as far as I can tell. The people watching would be amazing and I’m sure I could come up with some great characters and stories if I spent a little time there. But it’s not the kind of place I could go to often. Too dark and I am sure the whole city reeks of a desperation that would really get me down after awhile. I can’t imagine how anyone lives there.
The sin bashers and their signs always make me laugh. In Australia, we don’t have many of them out in the open like that demonstrating,loudly trying to cuckold people into ’salvation’. Your images are something I think of as very American, and I’m sure they could give me a great charcter or two as well.
Seeing Jay Leno would be great – lucky you!
Kelly
Bonnie | FaithBarista responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 3:35 pm →
Oh, Vered. I feel the same way you do, in that Las Vegas bothers me a lot more now as a mom and as a married woman, than it did as a single gal. Before, I was just like: crazy people!
Now, from a marketing perspective, it just makes me mad. Everything that we wouldn’t want to espouse to our children, it’s marketed to the tilt in neon, lights, and banner signs everywhere!
This post made me pretty sad. I felt there was something in every picture to remind me how easily it is to twist something beautiful and make it ugly:
[ ] As a woman: If I were to walk around this stuff with my sons (even as adults), I’d be totally discouraged by the progress of women. Is this what I’m ultimately seen as: an object to consume, alongside the $12.99 buffets?
I know it’s out there, so I’m gonna work overtime to make sure my sons will recognize the difference between beauty (woman’s attractiveness in relation to her inner character, personality and thoughts.)
Hopefully, they’ll see this garbage and know it’s a counterfeit to the real thing.
[ ] People who love God: I’m a Christian, so it always bums me out to see the worst in people use religion as a vehicle for being unloving. It’s the complete opposite of what true faith is. In fact, I just wrote a post about “The Scent of Being Loved” on my blog today, and it’s the complete opposite. People who are truly loved by God are free to love others and themselves without cost or expectations. Because God’s love is infinite and unconditional.
It’s great you posted this and it’s important to get jarred to the realities of life. It’s true. Reality bites. Thankfully. Without life’s zingers, we’d pass through this life in a coma. At rest, with only a heartbeat and a few sine waves on the blinking monitors. With them, we can be jolted to what’s important and remember what we’re all about.
Maureen responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 3:49 pm →
I was just in Vegas a few weeks ago for my husband’s birthday. I have a love/hate relationship with that city. It’s far enough from where I live that it feels like a real get-away but close enough that we can do a short weekend trip. There are a lot of great restaurants, I like hanging out by the pool and I am pretty good at playing craps. We saw one of the Cirque shows (KÁ) and it was amazing.
But I know my limits. I go with a set amount that I’m willing to spend (or lose) and I walk away if a table is too cold (and I never drink and gamble). Part of the fun of Vegas for me is being able to let go a little bit—dress up, dance, have an extra martini—but some people let go to the point of totally losing control. I’m not a prude by any stretch of the imagination but girls and guys sucking down foot-long drinks as they stumble up the street is so scary to me. It’s not really a safe town. This last trip, my husband and I saw an unprecedented number of young women being carried by friends and boyfriends back to their rooms, shoes dangling from their feet, clothing in total disarray. It’s depressing.
I never did buy the whole family-friendly thing they pushed for a while, but they did clean up the city a bit when they were doing that. But the seedier side of things seems to be returning and if it continues I probably won’t go back.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 4:21 pm →
@ Kelly: The people watching there IS amazing, and yes – you could get plenty of ideas there for a book! I’m not sure why I felt SO overwhelmed during this last visit. Maybe I’m getting too old for Vegas.
@ Bonnie: “people use religion as a vehicle for being unloving” – I’m Jewish, and in my experience, this phenomenon unfortunately exists in all religions.
@ Maureen: One morning as we were taking the elevator to our room after breakfast, a young woman was being brought back to her room by the hotel staff. She was sitting in a wheelchair, still wearing her outfit from the night before. Apparently, she collapsed. She kept insisting she was fine and trying to get up, but they wouldn’t let her. It was so sad.
Marelisa responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 4:26 pm →
Hi Vered: I’ve never been to Vegas, although it’s on my bucket list. Gambling is legal in Panama and there are lots of casinos here (lots of scantily clad women too). You don’t paint a very appealing picture of Vegas, but I still want to check it off my list. I guess as long as you’re aware of what you’re walking into . . . I certainly don’t expect Monte Carlo (now I’m thinking maybe I should cross las Vegas off my list add Monte Carlo instead).
Suzie Cheel responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 4:40 pm →
I understand what you are saying. I never had any desire to go there until Blog World was held there and I found I really like the place. When I went back last years what I loved was that I now had friends who lived there and got to visit the wonderful Valley of Fire which I might not have got to . The desert area around Vegas is wonderful
I enjoyed people watching too- wonderful colors etc
I am happy I have been there and next time I will stay with a friend rather than in a hotel so will see a different sude
Thanks for sharing
Suzie
Tara@Sticky Fingers responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 4:50 pm →
Wow, what a contrast.
Hubby and I were due to visit Vegas on our honeymoon (we were flying to America on 9/11 2001 and got diverted to Canada) so we’ve never experienced it.
Of course we knew all about the excess and the exploitation and the gaudy displays of wealth, but I guess we just wanted to go and experience it for ourselves and to witness it.
I think you may have just put me off now!
Avani Mehta responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 5:03 pm →
From the sound of it (or rather the look of it), I doubt I will like Las Vegas. I would still like to visit once just to see what the hype of Las Vegas is about.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 5:08 pm →
@ Marelisa: I have absolutely no doubt in my mind Monte Carlo would be far more upscale than Vegas.
@ Suzie Cheel : “The desert area around Vegas is wonderful” – I agree.
@ Tara: I actually think Vegas is a place one SHOULD visit – but probably just once…
@ Avani Mehta: Definitely – visit once, then move on (unless you fall in love with Vegas.)
Hayden Tompkins responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 5:16 pm →
My husband absolutely loves Vegas. LOVES. VEGAS. And of course, I’ve never been before because Vegas isn’t Fiji. He did, however, convince his mom and, like, every major girlfriend he has ever dated to go with him. His mom ended up loving Vegas TOO and when she found out she was dying, that is where she wanted to go. (That and Ireland. Go figure.)
So my first ever trip to Vegas is the end of August.
When I asked my husband why he likes Vegas, he said something about it being very surreal and like a playground (to be fair he loves Cirque du Soleil) and then I was all “I’m sure legions of scantily clad women have nothing to do with it.” and he sort of blushed.
{sigh}
Squawkfox responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 5:19 pm →
I’ve never been to Vegas but I’d like to go one day – just to see it.
I’m not the gambling type though.
Kim Woodbridge responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 5:31 pm →
I commented on Facebook but I’ve never been there and I have no desire to. If I was going to go somewhere loud and in my face, I would choose Tokyo way before Vegas. I lived in Tucson for 10 years and my brother and his friends would go up there all the time – I never did.
Dominique responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 6:25 pm →
I have yet to visit USA and Vegas but what you have potrayed.. I think I’ll cross Vegas off my list. I’m never keen on a place filled with unrealistic potrayal of women as Sex objects and vices(gambling ,drinking and smoking)
Daphne @ Joyful Days responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 7:03 pm →
Vered,
I’ve not been to Vegas, and would certainly go at least once when I get the chance. All the skin baring – it’s everywhere but I suppose even more glaringly so in Vegas. I used to refuse to even wear a bikini, but now I do. Maybe I’m been Vegas-ised?
Lori Hoeck responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 7:05 pm →
Your pictures show life out of balance in so many ways.
I’ve never understood the desire to gamble. And after spending over 12 years in Aspen, Colorado, where glitz, wealth, power, drugs, and Hollywood stars often mix together on ski slopes, in the bars, and tucked away in condos, I never felt the need to visit Sin City.
MommyNamedApril responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 7:43 pm →
I don’t know much about Vegas… never been there. But, what I DO know is that heat can suck the fun out of anything.
Lance responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 7:47 pm →
Hi Vered,
Twice in the last four years I’ve been to Vegas – both times for work conferences. The conferences were actually very well presented – including great entertainment (Jay Leno one year). However, there’s still time to get out and explore the city a bit. And the first time, I was taken in by the glitz of the city. I also met a cousin there – and in the city that never sleeps – we ended up hanging out at one of the restaurant bars well into the morning hours. What surprised me – women who approached us looking for a “date” for the night (the paid kind). I’m sure to support some sort of habit that’s not quite legal. And at that moment – the glitz became a bit less “glitzy”, as I thought about what these ladies were doing. And for what? And then walking down the ’strip’ – and the people selling themselves, or others… I can’t imagine taking a family there and just wandering around. And top that off with a little desire to gamble (I spent $20 the first time with my cousin, and none this past fall). So – the buildings are impressive, the city never sleeps, and there are a so many places to try some great food. But then you wander into the casino – and I would always wonder – are people spending there last dollars on the false hope of riches? What are people giving up for this “chance” (slim slim chance) at something bigger. And that’s another sad side of all of this for me – people gambling away their futures…
Davina responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 7:59 pm →
Hi Vered. I’ve never been to Las Vegas but I’d like to go at least once. I love cards and gambling and I don’t know why because I’ve never done a lot of it — it just interests me. Once I was working at an advertising agency and they had a Christmas party with a Vegas theme. They set up the entire place around that theme — games galore, and gave us play money to play the games with.
In a separate room they had a silent auction where you could use your winnings to bid on prizes. Well, let me tell you… I won $40,000 playing roulette! It was SUCH a high. I gave a friend my winnings because he was bidding on gifts for his children’s Christmas presents, but I’ll never forget that experience.
I’ve been with men when they are ogling women and it bothers me like you wouldn’t believe. Mostly because they make it so obvious. It feels disrespectful to be with someone and they are drooling right in front of you. If they’re going to look, I’d rather not see it.
Raag @ All Things Great and Small responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 8:39 pm →
Vered,
Though I agree with you on the sins of the Sin City, but still I loved the city for its man-made-grandeur.
Literally, the oasis in desert. That too what a grand one.
Then, we had moved to USA less than a year ago, and Vegas was our 2nd vacation (no prizes for guessing that Disney World was the first).
I still marvel at the wonder they have created on a stretch of land. Most amazing was to see that how the same glitzy-by-the-night city goes dead during the day.
Well, about the sins, it brings in big time revenue and jobs for an otherwise less resourceful land area. ——-To each his own.
My eyes were popping out, too, to see how old people were wasting money on a mirage.
The frugal me wasted only ten bucks on the slot machines.. that much was permissible for the amusement value.
Thanks for taking me back a decade back in good memories.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 9:14 pm →
@ Hayden Tompkins: At least he blushed.
@ Squawkfox: I don’t’ gamble either – still used to love Vegas.
@ Kim Woodbridge: Yeah, I need to see Tokyo too.
@ Dominique: It’s not a pleasant atmosphere, that’s for sure.
@ Daphne: Hehe maybe you have.
@ Lori Hoeck: “Your pictures show life out of balance in so many ways.” So true.
@ MommyNamedApril: It can. It was an unfortunate heat wave.
@ Lance: There’s definitely a very sad side to Vegas, and you saw right through the glitz and into that.
@ Davina: 40,000 – wow!
“It feels disrespectful” – EXACTLY.
@ Raag: “man-made-grandeur” – yes! Exactly. It’s amazing. They built something vibrant and incredible right in the middle of nowhere. And yet, so sleazy.
Kelvin Kao responds:
Posted: August 10th, 2009 at 10:15 pm →
I’ve been there three times, each time with a different group of family or friends. It was an interesting place to check out. The most fun for me is not gambling, though, but hanging out with friends and being silly. I’m just not particularly into gambling. It’s not a place that I would just want to go all the time, but I think it’s an experience that’s good to have at least once.
Noble Savage responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 12:14 am →
I have no desire to go to Vegas. I would feel too much like a voyeur of other people’s pain and objectification. The glorification of money, the parade of female flesh for male entertainment, the gambling away of one’s savings….in no way would I find those things pleasing, or “fun.” Even going there to “gawk at the crazies” feels wrong. Contributing to the economic growth and reputation of Vegas as a hedonistic destination where anything goes only serves to fuel the misogyny, greed and corrupt nature of gambling, in my not-so-humble opinion. And this is coming from a feminist perspective, not a religious one.
Great post, Vered.
Carla responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 12:16 am →
I went to Vegas for the first time in August of 1997 for a cousin’s wedding (they are still together w/two kids now). It was sooo hot and I swore never go to during the summer and fall again. The last time I went was about two years ago for an expo in November where the weather was bearable.
Its not my cup of tea and I would never go aside from a conference or expo during the winter or early spring, but I did enjoy shopping and window shopping at the Bellagio and trying my hand at the nickle machines!
BunnygotBlog responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 1:15 am →
Hi Verde,
I have been there twice and the first time I was in my early 20’s it was pretty overwhelming and too fast for me. Then a bunch of my girlfriends and I flew out and nothing had changed it still sucked.
Give me Chi-town or New York before Vegas anytime!
Vegas is a man’s paradise ~
Hilary responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 5:59 am →
Hi Vered .. I have to say I’d like to visit once .. it’s probably a little like Sun City in South Africa from the gambling point of view and shows .. but the rest I could miss .. the Oasis in the Desert would be interesting especially as it’s so man made.
Just once! All the best
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
Bamboo Forest - PunIntended responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 7:22 am →
I went to Vegas once. It can be fun. I’m not in any hurry to return, though.
Dot responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 7:29 am →
I haven’t gone and don’t expect to. I went to Atlantic City once and was bored. I don’t like gambling at all (that includes the stock market) and don’t like seeing women displayed as products, plus I hate noise and in-your-face experiences. The only thing that might entice me are the buildings and “experiences” of different places, but then, I could go to Busch Gardens for that.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 7:32 am →
@ Kelvin Kao: “it’s an experience that’s good to have at least once.” I agree.
@ Noble Savage: “a voyeur of other people’s pain and objectification.” YES. Exactly. Gosh, you do have a way with words, don’t you.
@ Carla: The Bellagio is a beautiful hotel.
@ BunnygotBlog: I agree that Vegas often feels overwhelming.
@ Hilary: I think it’s worth a visit – just to see it once – provided you’re prepared.
@ Bamboo Forest: Makes sense.
@ Dot: Investing for the long term in the stock market is different than gambling… other than that, I agree.
Writer Dad responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 7:45 am →
We used to go to Vegas every summer, but haven’t been in five years. I’m going to BlogWorld in October, and am dead curious to see how my view will have shifted in the last half decade.
zoe responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 7:54 am →
I’ve been to Vegas once. I had mixed reactions to the place. I was really taken by the architectural feats of so many of the buildings, and the sheer size of everything was amazing. We spent most of our time doing what we like to call urban hiking, which is really nothing more than walking around, exploring, and taking in the landscape.
I really had a hard time with all the excess. And it bothered me to see so many families there for vacation, at least the ones that were out at 2 AM with little kids. Seriously, Vegas is nothing more than greed, gluttony, and lust in glamorous packaging. There is nothing wrong with that when you’re an adult who understands that, and sees it for what it is.
And if I had to hear ding, ding, ding, ding, ding,ding….one more time, I wasn’t sure I would survive.
Kathy | Virtual Impax responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 8:00 am →
My sister loves Vegas. L-O-V-E-S the place. I totally don’t get the appeal.
The last time I was there, seeing the people staring vacantly at the damned slot machines made me want to cry. I mean, it was as pathetic as watching a junkie pass out along the street with the needle still stuck in his arm.
I’m sure if I’d gone when I was wild and single, I’d have a different view of it now. However, being married and older … well – I can see bright lights in NYC… without being “tacky”
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 8:47 am →
Ah, the word “feminism” raises all kinds of issues. Does it mean “A woman should be free to choose her own path through life” or does it mean “Other women should not be doing things that I would not choose for myself”? Here we have an arrangement wherein woman takes off her clothes in exchange for money and man pays money for the privilege of looking at woman. Personally I wouldn’t care to be on either end of this deal, but I don’t see it as my business to interfere in a consensual arrangement between two adults. And frankly, it seems to me that the woman is getting the better part of the deal.–maybe–what kind of employment benefits do showgirls get?
(Disclaimer: only time I’ve been to Vegas was a looong time ago as a kid. I suspect that if I went I would complain more about the artificiality of the whole place than “sin”. Then again, probably not–I do like Disneyland, and I tend to think of Vegas as merely Disneyland with gambling and nudity.)
Maxo responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 10:29 am →
My dad lives in Vegas and we visited him there a couple of years ago. My dad is a nature-person at heart and we spent almost the entire time enjoying the nature that is around Vegas. We hiked through canyons and played in mountains of snow (the first time I had seen snow.) One night my wife and I decided to try a night out in the city and we didn’t have any fun. It was really quite depressing like you said. Ladies sitting at slot machines feeding them like zombies. Sleazy men courting girls, etc.
I love Vegas, as long as I’m enjoying the nature around it and not the city.
Diana responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 11:13 am →
Vegas is a giant chocolate truffle filled with…nothing! You get the scent, the anticipation (of decadence and delicious excess), and the promise of something really wonderful and you leave disappointed and empty.
And then there are all those cheesy billboards and adds with giant bosoms for men to salivate over. (There is a lot of exquisite jewelry for women to salivate over.) Guys don’t have a chance there. And I, as a woman, feel so old and invisible in comparison. The women are just offered as one more escapist fantasy – for men. There isn’t much there for women unless you have the money to shop and see Cirque de Soleil (which is expensive but wonderful) or a really good entertainer. We paid $500 to see Cirque’s “O” up close in the second row center. Magnificent (!!) but out of our range these days.
I love the slots but can’t stop when I’m winning (until I lose it all back to them)! Last time it was 116 degrees and I became ill. I also wished I had spent my gambling money in the shops instead of the slots. At least I would have gone home with something other than a wish to have won the Vegas “lottery” and changed my life.
To one of your readers: Prostitution is not a pleasant profession I’m sure. Just think about the unpleasant, awful and violent men who see these women as objects to be used without regard and I think your idea that it’s none of our business may pass. It is our business to see to it that there are ways for women to make a decent living besides “servicing” the ruling class (men). Otherwise, we may as well be like other countries and use our children for profit as well. Why should children be sheltered from danger and abuse and not women?
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 11:41 am →
Ooookay…
1. As I said, I haven’t been to Vegas in a long time, but somehow I think–call it a hunch–that neither sexual intercourse nor violence plays a prominent role in a typical Vegas show.
2. I am opposed to treating women like children. Part of my version of feminism, if you will. Women have the right and responsibilty to take charge of their own destinies. Children are unprepared to do this as yet. Of course women, children, AND men deserve to be protected from abuse.
My condolences for your gambling losses.
Cath Lawson responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 12:07 pm →
Hi Vered – I’m not surprised you didn’t enjoy it in that heat. Because I’m from the UK, which is a long flight and I don’t gamble, it never occured to me to visit Vegas. Then I read a novel about the place and it made me want to go. I’ve just never got round to it yet.
Every time we come to America, we wind up coming to Disneyworld – we love it there and find it difficult to go to a different place. I’m trying to persuade my kids that on our next visit to the US, we should try Disneyland and a California road trip instead, so maybe we could fit Vegas in with that.
Hearing how much people like Hayden’s mother in law loves the place, really makes me want to go and see what all the fuss is about. But I can’t see me flying all the way there just to do Vegas alone – it will have to be part of a big trip.
Diana responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 12:15 pm →
@Els Thank you for your rebuttal. I wasn’t speaking of the sanitized Vegas shows, but the sideshows, men’s clubs and brothels hidden as escort services. They should call this “I want my mommy land” since it really is meant to appeal to every man’s unconscious wish to have mommy back (or to express their anger at her). If it weren’t so, why wouldn’t women be as drawn to it as men? Because women don’t have to forego mother to become women. They identify with her and so haven’t lost her.
No condolences needed. I limit my (wish to become rich) gambling losses to $40.
By the way, what does “Ooookay…” mean? I took it as a bit condescending. So hard to read a writer’s intent in this format.
My intent, to make it clear, is to express my dismay that I live in a culture that hides one’s needs for continuing nurturing, love, and attachment in adulthood and replaces them with substitutes that negate the original (and normal, necessary) infantile wishes that remain until our death. Not acknowledging those needs can result in disastrous addictions and social alienation with schizoid tendencies (including not seeing others as real people, a la Vegas showgirls and prostitutes).
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 1:24 pm →
@ Writer Dad: Hope you’ll share it on your blog!
@ zoe: We love to do urban hiking too! At least as much as we like to hike in nature.
@ Kathy: I think Vegas is one of those places you either love or hate.
@ Els Withers: I can’t imagine being a showgirl or performing at a strip club is good for a woman’s emotional health or for her self-esteem. Being objectified and dehumanized is never healthy, even if you make money from it.
@ Maxo: The nature around the city IS breathtaking.
@ Diana: “It is our business to see to it that there are ways for women to make a decent living besides “servicing” the ruling class (men).” Amen.
@ Cath Lawson: In your case it will definitely need to be a part of a big trip.
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:21 pm →
@Diana:
“Oookay….” Condescending? Oops! Perhaps I am a little bit guilty of such but mostly I was nonplussed at the sudden introduction of prostitution into the conversation. I was (and still am) reluctant to plunge into such a huge, wriggling can of worms.
I have a lot of issues with our culture, but I suggest that nurturing, love, and attachment have not exactly been abolished. These are still attainable for those willing to seek them out and work at them. From what I can see just about every culture has its fair share of issues with human relationships. Think about the places that don’t have showgirls (Saudi Arabia? Afghanistan?–although I bet they still have prostitutes). Are these such great places to grow up female?
Wilma Ham responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:33 pm →
I think during life things you like and how you view things change. Like food, entertainment, movies and places. It is a good thing, it means you are moving on and life is all about moving. However it doesn’t mean that I do not feel sad at times that the things I loved are no longer that attractive, it feels a bit like a loss I guess.
John Hoff - WpBlogHost responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:36 pm →
I hear you about Vegas, and I live there!
You know, many of the people who live here pretty much feel the same way you do. We don’t do the “Vegas” thing all that much, if at all. A lot of the people who are locals who gamble are either in that industry themselves or elderly people spending away their social security (they mostly play the slots). Many locals don’t even go to a casino unless it’s to watch Monday Night Football or something.
I can tell you with 100% accuracy why Vegas is what it is today and not what it used to be. It’s our mayor, Oscar Goodman. He’s all about the slogan, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas”. He’ll do whatever it takes to bring in business and tourism, even if that means truly living up to the nickname “Sin City”. Sex sells and he knows it.
Vegas has turned from being the Frank Sinatra style Vegas to the big time party place, mostly for younger crowds. Thing is though, remember that women are just as bad as the men, if not worse. You can go to any number of hotel/casinos and you’ll find the sleaziest women you’ll ever find roaming around looking to make a quick buck doing whatever it takes. My friend and I hung out at the Hard Rock bar one night and it was so funny because we’d see the same lady at the center bar for awhile and then leave with a guy. An hour later she’d return, start talking with another guy and then head off again. Then an hour later the whole thing repeats itself.
This went on all night long.
What’s going on now in Vegas is what’s making many of us, including my family, want to move. My wife and I have plans to be out in about 3 to 5 years. It’s has an awful crime rate, the schools suck, . . . you name it, we’re always at the bottom of the list when we see news polls.
There are some good aspects, however. It’s only really hot here 2.5 months out of the year, other than that the weather is pretty nice because the winters are mild. Also, everything is new, it’s sunny everyday, and everything’s open 24/7.
Hope you at least had some time to enjoy yourself and didn’t lose too much money.
Diana responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:37 pm →
@Els I should have gone to your blog and noticed that you are an “all-around nice guy” before I answered, LOL.
Also, when I read “Here we have an arrangement wherein woman takes off her clothes in exchange for money and man pays money for the privilege of looking at woman.” I reacted as if you were talking about hookers. I doubt I even finished reading your sentence! A personal reaction to the sexism I see here out West. I see now you were talking about showgirls. I still think that’s exploitation, no matter how much money the girls make.
By mentioning our culture in particular, I am not discounting others, just pointing out that I can only speak for what I know to be true here. We are a long way from equality in a country that won’t even guarantee equal rights under any federal, state, or local law could not be denied on account of sex, agreed? 15 states is it now? Won’t sign that women are guaranteed equal rights? Sigh …
RC - Rambling Along... responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:48 pm →
For as much as I love to travel, I have never been to Vegas. And, since gambling doesn’t excite me (I’ve been to casinos and I’ve watched friends max out credit cards while playing blackjack or poker, plus I hate “losing” money), I’ve never really wanted to go.
Part of me is curious and would like to see the tacky glitz, but if I am spending money on a trip, I want more out of that money…
I’ve been told to go for the shows, but then I’ve heard how they change stage productions from what you might see in New York, London or Chicago, to entice a different crowd. And since I LOVE almost everything theater/musical-related, those changes would bug me.
I have opinions on the over-exposed women, too, but I’m not finding the right words to explain what I want to say. I may stop by later to comment again…
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 3:52 pm →
@Vered:
Surely you have heard the story about the guy who had the worst job in the world–cleaning up after the elephants in the circus. Every day he would moan and complain about all the elephant crap he had to sweep up, until his friends got tired of hearing it and asked him why he didn’t just quit his job.
He was shocked. “What!? And leave show business?”
I suspect the “objectified and dehumanized” idea is very clear-cut to you but it is less so to me. Perhaps this will shock you, but I suspect some showgirls enjoy their work and went to considerable effort to get into the business. And I really don’t think it’s fair to lump them in with prostitutes. I suspect there is more skill (and teamwork!) entailed in the job than might be obvious to us. Showgirl would not be my first choice of job (theoretically speaking–I lack the requisite qualifications), but I would gladly take it over telemarketer, or sanitation worker, or coal miner (not intended as an insult to them). Are those people objectified and dehumanized? How about beauty-pageant contestants (which for some reason I find creepier than showgirls)? Fashion models? FOX news reporters? Movie stars?
I’m willing to concede that some men look at showgirls because of unresolved issues with their mothers or other shameworthy impulses. On the other hand, perhaps some people just happen to find the human body beautiful and enjoy looking at it. This has been true throughout human history and was hardly invented in Vegas. Seeking out Vegas showgirls perhaps proves one guilty of tacky taste but I’m not sure it demonstrates a lack of respect for women. Why not give them the benefit of the doubt? Did Michelangelo objectify and dehumanize his subjects? How about Rodin.
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 5:09 pm →
@Diana: To answer your question, I too am disappointed that the ERA was not ratified, and I suspect most of the opposition was rooted in outmoded fears that I am quite unsympathetic to. I will make the pessimistic prediction that the ERA will be ratified either never or at such a time when it is no longer needed.
I agree that we have a long way to go for full equality. But if anyone out there is expecting that some day we will attain some gender-neutral utopia wherein men will no longer enjoy looking at naked women, I can save you some time. Give up now. It will never come to pass. Nor should it.
And if I started making a list of the special problems that women face, showgirls would appear way down low–if at all.
Tess The Bold Life responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 6:11 pm →
I went to Vegas for the first time two weekends ago. Do you think we we’re there at the same time? I knew what I was getting into so I used a line out of “A Course In Miracles.” Which is “I will judge nothing that occurs today.” I only messed up a few times and one was the young people passing out those business cards to hire young women for sex.
I found out the people don’t speak English and get paid One Penny for everyone who calls the number. How sad is that?
What I did like was seeing a couple of shows and the absolute beautiful lobbys and restaurants in the 5 stars hotels. I took photos and will post.
I used to be angry about the things you write about. Now I’m at peace and send light and love to all involved. Oh and I explain this stuff to my grandchildren all of the time. Ages 12, and15.
Diana responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 6:21 pm →
@Els We’ll have to agree to disagree. Yes, men will always find looking at naked women exciting but objectification and dehumanization are the result of viewing all women as “parts” and/or a projected fantasy woman (who will meet all your needs) and therefore she is not seen as a real person. The projection that “she wants it – or sometimes that she wants it but doesn’t know it, or she needs it” is a core feature of violent acts like rape and molestation of underage females. Feeling entitled to look at a body as “parts” is dehumanizing but most men are able to engage in it freely.
The human body is beautiful and women enjoy looking at it too, males and females. But there is a power imbalance between men and women.
If you’re talking about sex, not voyeurism, between adults, anything goes that’s mutual. But voyeurism can become a habit that takes to the streets, and the viewing of women’s “parts” takes place without their knowledge or approval. I call it horn-dogging. As a mother you start to worry about even your very young daughters being seen as sexual apparatus when in actuality they should be off limits. Do men have limits? Some do, many, many don’t. By the way, most of those showgirls are our college-aged daughters. Would you want men leering at your daughter’s most intimate body parts?
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 11th, 2009 at 8:55 pm →
@ Wilma Ham: It does feel like a loss.
@ John Hoff: I didn’t realize you lived in Vegas. This is all very interesting. I didn’t lose at all – we don’t gamble. We go there for the truly unique energy and the 24/7 thing, but I guess I’m now officially old, since I find that it’s not worth the sleaziness anymore.
@ RC: You are most certainly welcome to come back.
@ Els Withers: “I suspect the “objectified and dehumanized” idea is very clear-cut to you but it is less so to me.” – Looks like we will have to agree to disagree on this one.
@ Tess: Nah, I can’t be at peace with this. But I’m glad you were able to enjoy yourself!
John Hoff - WpBlogHost responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 4:14 am →
Yeah I don’t gamble either. I tried a while back and you know, it seemed like I was winning a lot. After a couple months I reviewed my bank statements . . . yeah, that was just an illusion. That day I stopped gambling.
Michelle @ Find Your Balance responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 6:43 am →
I can’t stand casinos of any kind! It’s just…gross. Everything you described! I have never been to Vegas but I’ve been to Atlantic City and Mohegan Sun. The few times I’ve gone were all terrible experiences for me. Why would I want to gamble away my hard earned money while getting lost in a sea of tacky carpet patterns purposely designed to keep me confused?
Els Withers responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 7:16 am →
@Diana:
As you said, we’ll have to agree to disagree, but you asked a question, so I’ll respond. Somehow I expect Vegas showgirls sign up for the job with the expectation of being ogled. There is a huge gap between going to see a Vegas show and raping an underage girl.
I don’t know how you feel about abortion, but personally I am pro-choice. Based on the principle: it’s her life–her body–her choice. Those principles don’t suddenly disappear when sex is involved. I don’t have a daughter, but I’ll answer your question. If I had a daughter, and she were of legal age, and you ask me whether I would want men leering at her most intimate body parts, I would say you’re asking the wrong person. It’s her life–her body–her choice. Would it make me uncomfortable if my daughter chose to become a Vegas showgirl? Almost certainly. But that’s an issue for me to deal with–not her.
This conversation has provoked some rambling thoughts that I think I’ll write a post about. I’ll let you know when I do.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 11:34 am →
@ John Hoff: It’s like playing the lottery. I know the odds are overwhelmingly against me, so it just doesn’t make sense to do it.
@ Michelle: “a sea of tacky carpet patterns purposely designed to keep me confused” – hehe that’s a very accurate description!
Chris Edgar | Purpose Power Coaching responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 11:59 am →
Thanks for this — I remember I had a sobering experience in Atlantic City. When I was 20 I went there to do research for a school project (I didn’t realize it was illegal for me to go into the casinos), and I noticed how, on the bus and in the slot machine rooms, no one talked to each other — it was just this eerie silence punctuated by the pulling of levers — and on the bus people were playing with Game Boy-like portable slot machines! This is one of the experiences that has kept me away from Vegas.
Dr. J responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 12:51 pm →
It’s been years since I have been to Vegas! I was there with my family as ny dad was running for president (he won) of our professional organization. Neither of us are gamblers, but I did get a kick out of how on our last day while we were walking through the casino, he put a coin into a slot machine and it payed off! He put the fistful of coins into his pocket, and off we went! That money did not stay on Vegas!
I’ve never been a supporter of strippers or exploitation of women. I guess I’m just different, but it does not make me comfortable. I do think the answer lies with women refusing to be exploited, but that’s a different issue.
John Hoff - WpBlogHost responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 1:42 pm →
@ Michelle: Have you noticed how there are no windows either? They don’t want you knowing it’s getting dark out (or light out).
Hmm…interesting. As bloggers, we typically like to keep others on our sites longer (i.e. a lower bounce rate). What can we learn from Casinos to keep your eyes focused and away from the doors? Could be an interesting comparison.
Natural responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 2:52 pm →
been to vegas many years ago and loved it actually. i may not agree with what goes on there, but as long as i’m not having a share in it – that’s just the way of the world. i think the scripture up top said it best. we are in the last days.
Patricia responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 7:49 pm →
I have been to Los Vegas a number of times for business meetings and never could enjoy the heat and the crush of the crowds. I did want to see Celine Dion’s show with Circue de Soleil but it was sold out for the whole year. I know a fine teacher who is making a difference in the schools in Vegas, one child at a time – he is so dedicated and loves the heat, and I know a nurse who works with drug addicted babies there and she is also making a huge difference.
What I like about Vegas is that I can choose to go or not, I don’t gamble so if the conference is worth it I go
It is just a place with some activities that do not interest me at all.
Thanks for making note of your changes and sharing them here. I appreciate that insight
Barbara Swafford responds:
Posted: August 12th, 2009 at 11:15 pm →
Hi Vered,
It sounds like Vegas has changed a lot since I was there many years ago. At that time, I thought it was pretty awesome.
MomGrind responds:
Posted: August 13th, 2009 at 10:28 am →
@ Chris Edgar: “this eerie silence punctuated by the pulling of levers” – exactly.
@ Dr. J: “I do think the answer lies with women refusing to be exploited” – I agree, but it doesn’t seem to be happening. The desire to make money always wins.
@ Natural: “i think the scripture up top said it best. we are in the last days.” I certainly hope not. I’m having too much fun for it to be over.
@ Patricia: “the crush of the crowds” is one of the things that make it very difficult to enjoy Vegas.
@ Barbara Swafford: I think it really has changed. When they were trying to promote it as a family-friendly place, it was much better. As John Hoff says, the “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas” campaign has created a very different atmosphere there.
Nicole responds:
Posted: August 14th, 2009 at 9:41 am →
Sounds like Atlantic City. There recently, the spectacle had me feeling depressed. I don’t know what was worse, the tacky, over-the-top, advantageous casino or the poverty stricken, dangerous neighborhood a few blocks away.
Evelyn Lim responds:
Posted: August 14th, 2009 at 6:18 pm →
I was just asking my girlfriend one week ago about how Las Vegas was like. I think your pictures convey more than her words. I doubt that I will like Las Vegas all that much. I have been to the States for holiday vacations a few times but have never been to Las Vegas. Looks like it is still not going to be on my priority list in terms of travels.
The Lawyer Mom responds:
Posted: August 14th, 2009 at 6:36 pm →
The last time I was in Las Vegas, I said to myself, “take a picture because you’re never coming back,” after which I took a shower — immediately.
Sort of reminds me of my fifth-grade trip to New Orleans with my mother. We stayed right in the Quarter and passing by the strip-club barkers was unavoidable. My mother turned and said to me sternly, “This is the armpit of the nation.”
Stephanie responds:
Posted: August 15th, 2009 at 7:56 am →
When I was little, I loved Vegas. We’d stop and stay for a few days on our way to Disney and it was always great fun. Then when I got married, my husband and I went to Vegas on our honeymoon, and it was such a HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT! It has become such a SLEAZY city. We enjoyed a few good shows, but the smut was unavoidable. It’s everywhere. As a parent, I would NEVER take my kids there. EVER. In fact, if I never go back there, it will be too soon.
Thanks for this article!