A trip that didn't happen report

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Well, DH and I were supposed to go Zion and Vegas this week. Zion was supposed to be at the end of the trip (2 nights at Cliffrose), but when we had the opportunity to actually stay in the Park at the Zion Lodge, we grabbed it. Trouble was, it was only for one night, and it was on the FRONT end of the trip.

So I changed our flight to 7 am on Southwest, spent the night at PDX to get up early, and were at the gate all excited....to find out the flight was delayed FIVE HOURS until Noon. No other flights were available on any other airline (I checked), so at the last minute we cancelled the whole thing. I didn't want to be on the road at 3pm out of Vegas with rush hour traffic for a 3 hour drive plus a time change, to turn around and come back to Vegas the very next day. I don't know if we did the right thing...it might not have been for everyone, but being older, not hikers, we would have gone to Zion and been totally rushed.

So we also didn't go to Red Rock Casino, we didn't have the signature cabana with plunge pools (I think I regretted that more than anything), and didn't have all the fabulous meals I had planned.

Instead we went to our local casino, stayed overnight, and came home with more than a thousand than we went with...which was a good thing since the $500 night in Zion was not refundable because of the short notice.

So hope all of you who did make your trips had a wonderful time, and I'll enjoy reading about them. Sad face.

Answer

It sounds like you had quite an adventurous trip that didn’t quite go as planned! I totally understand how frustrating travel disruptions like delayed flights can really throw off your entire schedule, especially when you're trying to make the most out of a vacation. In this case, though, it seems like you made a practical decision by canceling the trip and avoiding the rushed and stressful scenario that would have followed with your altered travel plans.

As for the missed experiences in Zion and Vegas, I know it can be disappointing, especially when you had exciting activities lined up, like the cabana at Red Rock Casino and the signature meals. It's normal to feel that "what could have been" regret, but it seems like you turned things around by visiting your local casino and coming home with more than you went with! Sometimes, the best experiences come from unexpected places.

Here are some silver linings and advice to consider:

Zion: You may not have gotten to spend as much time in Zion, but staying at the Zion Lodge is a wonderful experience in itself. If you’re planning a future trip, the flexibility of staying inside the park could help make up for this one-time change. Zion is always waiting for your return!
Red Rock Casino Cabana: I totally get the regret over not having the signature cabana with plunge pools. That would’ve been a fantastic way to relax and enjoy some luxury. Perhaps next time, booking in advance and confirming all details before your trip could help avoid similar disappointments.
Local Casino Experience: Sometimes, staying close to home and having a low-key, yet rewarding experience (like winning at your local casino) can be surprisingly fulfilling. It also has the advantage of not having to deal with the stresses of travel and can provide a relaxing retreat without all the hassle.

For Future Travel Tips:

Plan for Flexibility: I’d recommend always keeping a bit of flexibility in your travel plans, especially with flight changes. If there’s a possibility of having a buffer day or evening between travel and excursions, that might help ease the stress of any last-minute issues.
Revisit Vegas and Zion: When you’re able to go again, maybe splitting the time between Zion and Vegas without the rush could give you a much more relaxed experience. Consider staying longer in each place, or even visit Vegas first and then take a calm drive to Zion without feeling time-pressured.
Local Getaways Can Be Just as Fun: Sometimes, unexpected delays bring the opportunity to rediscover local fun spots. Your experience at the local casino turned out to be more profitable than expected, and that’s something to celebrate!

It's all about finding the silver lining and making the most out of each situation. I hope your future trips go smoothly, and I'm sure the next time you visit Vegas and Zion, you'll be able to enjoy them without any stress!

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