Moving to Las Vegas

Sin City — Las Vegas or just Vegas — sits on the western side of the U.S., on desert land, and is known as the entertainment capital of the world.

More than 37 million people visit Las Vegas every year. It's a favourite destination for people from every corner of the world. What is it known for? A lot of adult activities, including gambling, but also for the shopping, entertainment, and dining. It's pro-business and pro-people; it offers exceptional entertainment, sophisticated cuisine, and educational resources are plentiful. The city is a popular location for filming movies and a million people call it home.

Vegas is a large area and you won't be able to ignore the fact that you are in the desert, but you'll love the views of the mountains and the hypnotic lights at night.

Winter and spring are cool with temperatures between 45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer and fall (autumn) bring warmer temperatures that can reach well into the 100-degree Fahrenheit range, with little or no humidity.

Living in the city

There are several neighbourhoods which people are drawn to, including Seven Hills, Anthem, and Red Rock. These areas are planned communities with newer housing, some in gated communities, with plenty of parks for family outings and convenient shopping. They are designed with family living in mind.

Preauthorised withdrawals from your bank account are an efficient way of paying for utilities and other bills. The various utility companies can help you with arrangements. Also, many companies allow for online payment with personal cheques via their websites.

Expatriates usually rent for a short time before purchasing a house, depending on their length of stay. You'll have some instances where your credit history will be checked, but don't worry, it's not normally a problem for expats coming to the area.

Most homes do not come with appliances other than an oven/stove. Some units offer a number of amenities (pool, recreational facilities) and others merely offer the accommodations. Pet friendly accommodation is not plentiful.

If you do move to Las Vegas you'll have water parks, magic, animal and comedy shows as well as state parks and museums, among other things, to keep you and your children entertained and informed. Viewing the lights on ‘the strip’ at night is a must-do. 

There are many excellent public and private schools available in this area and its surroundings. Public schools are publicly funded, free, and adhere to a standard curriculum. Private schools charge a fee for attending and usually offer a more specialised curriculum. Most parents choose a school according to their child's needs and interests.

Because the U.S. doesn't have socialised medical care, you'll need to have your own health insurance and be responsible for taking all that information with you when visiting the doctor or hospital. If you do not have health coverage you will have to pay for health care yourself at the time service is provided, but this is an expensive option.  Pharmacies, or drug stores, are plentiful around the city. Two major chains are Walgreens and CVS.

A lot of adult activity — including prostitution — takes place in and around Las Vegas so the longer you’re in the city the more likely you are to be exposed to it at some point.  You’ll also no doubt run into many people from other states and other countries in your daily activities. 

Getting around

In general, having your own vehicle is the most convenient option although it's not always required. Depending on your destination, public transportation (buses and taxis) is available but coverage is limited and making arrangements can be time consuming.

Within 90 days of arriving in Las Vegas you’re required to get a U.S., driver's licence and liability insurance. The legal age for drivers is 18 years old, but a teenager can get a learner's permit at 16. Seat belts have to be worn by both drivers and passengers and you'll be driving on the right-hand side of the road.

You are legally allowed to make right hand turns on most red lights, but you have to first make a complete stop and remember that, at all times, pedestrians have the right of way at a crossing. 

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