Many of my clients have asked me how to play My Vegas, which gives real rewards for stuff in Vegas, so here is a little how to:-

Firstly to play My Vegas Slots, you need to sign up for a MLife Membership, which is the Company that owns many Casinos in Vegas such as The Mirage, New York, New York and The Bellagio. While there are rewards for other activities, the majority are for the MLife Chain of Hotels.

Go to www.mlife.com, and click on Sign In, a box will come up where you can Join Today. Word of warning, make sure you use your full name as per your Passport, as that will be needed for identification to redeem any rewards.

Once you have joined MLife, then go to Facebook and search My Vegas . Hit Play Game, and it should take you to a screen to enter your MLife details so it links up.

And, that's it, once it's all linked, all you have to do is play the games, and earn gold coins. These are the ones you use to redeem the rewards. The red coins are the ones you use to play with, and you can buy them, but I never do. In the background, is the vegas strip and and you can collect bonus red coins from there.

Once you have enough coins for the reward you want, you can purchase it with the gold coins. You will get an email with instructions on how to redeem in Vegas. Don't purchase until 30 days out from your holiday as the rewards are only valid for a 30 day rolling period, and there is a limit to three rewards per 30 day period.

Two for one Buffets are great, two for one Show Tickets, and even complimentary tickets, and the list goes on.

Also, you can play more games on your mobile, just do a search for the apps and download, then link to facebook.

And, that's it, so happy playing and go earn those gold coins.

Watch out, it's addictive though!

So you've booked the flights, accommodation, tours etc. and now you have your spending money sorted!

Or do you?

There are some costs involved in travelling to the USA that maybe first time travellers would not be aware of !

1. Hotel Deposits - Some hotels charge resort fees, and then taxes on top of, especially in Vegas. Mostly they will add them at the time of booking so you know what your bill will be. But when you go to check-in most hotels these days want a Security Deposit as well. Could be $50 a night, maybe more!

This is where things can get sticky!

If you let them put a hold on your creditcard for the amount of the deposit, don't make any room charges, then the hold comes off when you check out. Right?

I have had holds still on my creditcard long after I have returned home. Means you can't access that money while you are away.

Worse still, if you make room charges up to the amount of the Security Deposit, when you check out, there maybe a double charge still on the creditcard, while the hold is still waiting to drop off. Could leave you in the lurch for money while waiting!

I suggest paying the deposit by cash, that way if you don't use it, they will refund you the cash back upon check-out.

If you are coming straight home and don't want the cash back, charge some food etc to the room up to the deposit amount, then when you check out, nothing to pay, no holds on your card. All good!

Don't let the hotel tell you they don't accept cash, because they have to. It's refundable so why wouldn't they!! I have had hotels try this, and I just say well that's all I've got on me, so take it or leave it.

2. Tipping in the USA is supposedly optional but try not, and it won't be pleasant.

It's fair enough, because the minimum wage is very low and workers rely on tips to survive.

Anyone doing you a service, you tip, e.g. waiters in restaurants, bartenders, bell-hop, hotel concierge, taxis, tour guides, hotel maids.

10% of the total except for taxis and waiters, that's 20%.

$1 per drink in a bar.

You'll get the hang of it, but make sure to account for tips in your spending money.

When it comes to choosing a hotel in Vegas, there are a few questions you should ask yourself first:-

a) Do you want a luxury hotel room with a view of the strip, or are you happy with just a room to sleep in? There will be a price difference so if you are happy to pay the premium price these are the hotels for you:-

- Mandalay Bay - Far North end of the strip.

- Bellagio - Mid Strip

- Cosmopolitan- Mid Strip

- Venetian and Palazzo - South end of the strip

b) What sort of atmosphere do you want? Somewhere hip and young, or somewhere a little bit calmer?

These hotels are quite popular with the young ones and mid range price wise:-

- Planet Hollywood- North end of the strip

- MGM Grand - North end of the strip

These hotels are a little calmer, mixed demographic:- mid-lower priced

- The Mirage - Mid strip

- Paris - Mid strip

- Caesars Palace - Mid Srip

- Flamingo - Mid Strip

- Balleys - Mid Strip

- The Cromwell - Mid Strip

And these hotels have a mixed demographic, lower price range

- Luxor - Far North end of the Strip

- Excalibur - Far North end of the Strip

- New York New York - Far North end of the strip

- Monte Carlo - Far North end of the strip

- The Linq - Mid Strip

- Harrahs - Mid Strip

- Treasure Island - South end of the strip

- Circus Circus - Far South end of the strip

It doesn't really mater where you stay as everything is easy accessible along the strip either by walking, taxi or bus.

There are also hotels off the strip which will be better priced and then downtown in old vegas would be some cheaper deals as well. Just weigh up the cost of the extra cab fares against the money you save on any off the strip hotels.

So you are planning a trip to America, not sure where to go? In my experience most people want to go everywhere all in the one trip. From LA to New York, and maybe Graceland in Memphis. Well I have done one of those trips, and you spend a good chunk of your holiday time either at the airport or on a plane. Not to mention the cost of all those domestic flights.

Unless you've got unlimited time and money, I would recommend picking which city you want to visit the most, and work your holiday around that.

If for instance Los Angeles or San Francisco is a must do, then stick to the west coast and plan your itinerary around that.

Here's an example: For a 14 Day Trip - Get a direct flight to Los Angeles, spend 3 days exploring Hollywood, Beverley Hills, and Universal Studios. Hop on Hop Off Bus will get you around all the sights, including Santa Monica and Venice Beach. 2 day pass is around $85 but totally worth it as it has over 70 stops and you can get on and off at your leisure.

Catch the Luxe Bus down to Anaheim for approx $60. Spend at least 2 days exploring Disneyland and California Adventure Park. One day one park tickets are cheaper than hopper park tickets.

Catch a flight from John Wayne AIrport(Orange County) approx 13 miles from Anaheim, to San Francisco(Oakland Airport) Southwest has cheap flights around $80.

Spend 2 days exploring the sights, including Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, once again I'd recommend the Hop on Hop off Bus to get the best value and see the most sights.

Then fly to Las Vegas and spend 4 days in Sin City. Too many things to do to list here.

Then fly back to LA to return home.

That's 11 full days of sightseeing and 3 days for travelling, seeing 4 cities.

If its the east coast, say New York, or down south to maybe New Orleans or Nashville, then the same plan, stick around the same area to maximise your time and $'s.

The USA is a big place so plan on visiting a few times to see all on the bucket list.

Everyone knows "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" right, so you want to make sure you have the time of your life.

Your choice of travel companion can make or break your holiday.

We've all been there, itching to go out and do something and your travel buddy wants an early night!

Or that frustrating exchange of "What do you want to do?", "I don't know" "How bout this?" "Nah, I don't want to do that!". Infuriating right?

Ever consider travelling with a group?

Here's 5 good reasons why you might consider it!

1. Vegas has some pretty amazing nightclubs, roof-top bars and shows. It's a mine-field wading through the choices, let alone trying to navigate how to get in without lining up all night, getting the best seats at show, and even how to get there!

Our guided tour takes care of all these details for you. The best tickets, vip entry and best of all you already have your party with you, so there is always someone to talk, drink or dance with!

2. Feel like lazing around the pool, checking out the many shopping haunts, or you may want to try a certain restaurant? There will always be someone within the group that has the same interests. So you get to do the things you want, all day, every day.

3. Get out of your comfort zone and try some things you may never otherwise get the chance to do. e.g. on our guided tour, we have a pamper day in a luxurious hotel suite. Hair and Make-up by our celebrity make-up artist "Bo", who has made up celebrities such as Britney Spears, Gwenneth Paltrow, and our own Kylie Minogue.

Select a designer dress from "Rent the Runway" to wear out, and travel in style in a limo up the strip.

4. Pay it off before you go. We have Payment Plans that include all airfares, transfers, accommodation, and activities, so when you get there all your spending money is exactly that, Spending Money! No hidden costs or unexpected expenses. Great for the budget conscious!

5. Finally, if you don't have a travel buddy to go with, travelling in a group can give you the safe and secure feeling of knowing you're not on your own, and don't have to be.

After all, travelling is about new experiences and having someone to share it with makes it a whole lot more fun.

For more info on our "What Happen in Vegas" Tours go to http://www.lafemmetours.com.au/what-happens-in-vegas-tours or click on pic above.

If you are a first timer to LA, it can be quite daunting sifting through the attractions and things to do list.

Here are my top ten.

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame on Hollywood Bvld.

All first time visitors want to see the Walk of Fame, where all the celebrities have their stars, and some hand and foot prints set into the concrete, but it has become a bustling hub of all things touristy these days and most people find it quite tacky. But still, it's one of those places you need to see for yourself. Make sure you check out the Hollywood Museum on Highland Ave, and you can catch one of the Hop on Hop Off Buses here. The best way to get around and see everything. Visit Hollywood Highland Shopping Mall for a perfect view and pic opportunity of The Hollywood Sign.

2. Disneyland & California Adventure Park.

Even if you are not a "ride person", everyone should go to Disneyland at least once.

Take a day tour from LA, or book a night in Anaheim so you get to see the famous nightly fireworks, and "The World of Colour" show at California Adventure Park.

They are truly stunning and it really is the happiest place on earth.

3. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills

Not many of us can afford to shop here, but it is certainly worth a stroll around to do some window shopping.

4. The Grove & Farmers Market

The Grove is a great place to shop, a beautiful outdoor mall complete with mini tram and dancing fountains. Located next door to the Farmers Market where you can take a break from shopping for lunch at one of the many food stalls. My reccommendations, try the Mexican, followed by some of the famous home made ice cream.

5. Universal Studios and Citywalk

Of all the studio tours, Universal is the most fun. Make sure you take the tour, before getting caught up with all the fun rides, as it is well worth it for the special effects. Last time I was there you could get a free pass to Madame Toussauds Waxworks with the purchase of your Universal Ticket, down on Hollywood Bvde. While there visit the citywalk, plenty of shopping, restaurants and movie theatres. Extra TV aso film there.

6. Santa Monica & Venice Beach

You can catch the Hop on Hop off Bus down to Santa Monica and visit the famous pier and boardwalk. There are some great restaurants and good shopping down there as well. You can catch a 10min shuttle to Venice Beach, home to the famous muscle beach gym or take the half hour walk and shuttle it back.

7. Santee Alley - Fashion District

This one is not for the faint hearted, only serious shoppers and bargain hunters will enjoy the blocks and blocks of street stalls. It's cheap and it's fun, but take the hop on, hop off bus as they will drop you off and pick you up on their way back, 2 hours later.

It's not a great place to find a cab back from.

8. The Magic Castle

This famous Magicians Club is very exclusive and the only way non members can get in, is to stay at The Magic Castle Hotel next door. Which, by the way has the best customer service of any hotel I've ever stayed at. When you book at the hotel, ask them to make dinner or lunch reservations at the club, they will shuttle you up there and back. You get dinner and magic shows, and it is an amazing experience. Be prepared to dress up as they have a very strict dress code, and the menu is pricey but well worth it.

9. Melrose Avenue

This is a very trendy place to shop, but worth taking a look at, as the shops are quite different to what you would find in the malls. Very urban and hip, lots of second hand shops, and the best place to spot a celebrity.

10. LA Live

is the sports and entertainment district that surrounds STAPLES Center and Nokia Theatre. The campus features sports and music venues, night clubs, restaurants, a bowling alley, museum and movie theaters. L.A. LIVE is the premier destination for live entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles.

And that's it. A good 5 - 6 days is all you need to get to see all these attractions, but you do need to be super organised to fit it all in.

Lafemme Tours does specialised itineraries, including all your bookings, hotels, flights, tours etc. so simply email me for a free quote at kate@lafemmetours.com.au

Most women as they age, experience in some way, the de-valuation of them by society.

Whether it's our sense of style, our opinions, or our experiences of life, they can be seen as irrelevant in today's modern world.

I'm sure we have all had the experience of walking into a clothing boutique only to be ignored by the very young sales assistant!

The owners of the clothing store don' care how old their customers are, as long as they are buying, so why do sales assistants do this?

I think it is because they think they can't relate, and to be fair, there are some older women out there who think the same way.

All I can say is, everyone is missing out!

That older lady browsing in your store, just may have been rocking it out in the 70's and have a wealth of funny stories and information she could share with you.

My daughter is soo proud that her mum went to an after-party with ACDC back in the day, and until recently Nana was using the "famous" drumsticks(given to me as a souvenier), to stir her home-made soup.

My point is, that every situation young ladies find themselves in today, the older women in their lives have some experience of. Yes, there are some major changes in the world we live in today, but our emotions are still the same.

We struggled with boyfriends, careers, marriage and children, some of them at the same time, we went through the same emotions experienced by women today.

So, why are we not relevant, is what I am asking.

My mother is 84 years young, and getting her to open up and share her stories with me is invaluable. Yes some of her opinions seem like they are from the dark ages, but having conversations and sharing, not only opens her mind to a new way of thinking, but opens my mind to some traditional values that are slowly disappearing.

We can all learn something from each other, someone just needs to start the conversation!

If you have been to Hollywood, especially the touristy Hollywood Bvd, then you know every step you take, there is someone trying to sell you Tours to Moviestar Homes, Sightseeing tours of LA, etc etc. They can be really really annoying to say the least.

Well I have the solution, if you don't look like a tourist, and dress like a local, Hey Presto, they leave you alone..... I once walked the entire strip without anyone bothering me at all, it was great.

I've also crashed Movie Premier Parties, and got onto the Red Carpet, and got into some pretty exclusive night-clubs as well, and I'm old but that doesn't matter in Tinseltown.

The secret is to look like you belong there, a really great dress, some killer heels and a dash of confidence is all you need, oh and it does help if you stay at a great hotel like The W, in Hollywood. There is always something happening there.

Of course if you are doing the sight-seeing, Disneyland, Universal Studios etc, then casual attire with comfortable shoes are a must. Also a sun hat cos it's alway warm in LA.

It's easy to look stylish and be comfortable as well, maxi-dresses, a stylish handbag, great sunglasses, will all do the trick.

If it's not too hot, you can team your dresses with long boots, that's also a good stylish look.

I guess the point is, by dressing a little more LA, you're experience will be completely enhanced, and to help you out we have researched some great items in our Online Store to get you started.....GO TO STORE

Next stop.....New York

Whether you're in your 30's,40's or 50's, the end of a long-term relationship can be devastating. How we handle it varies from woman to woman, but here are 5 steps in the right direction:-

1. Get a good therapist, your friends maybe sympathetic now, but soon get tired of going over old ground. Talk to someone who is paid to listen, they will be more objective.

2. Don't join up the latest dating site. If you're newley single, this is not the place to be. You need some skills to sift through the players, scammers and crazies on these sites.

3. Focus, focus, focus on yourself. This is a time to re-connect with you and the things you love. Don;t get bogged down with what your ex is doing and with who, your aim is to fast track moving forward.

4. Take a risk, do something you've always wanted to do, start a bucket-list and check them off. Now is the time!

5. Finally, "Fake it till you make it". Don't feel like socialising, force yourself to go, pretend you feel great, and pretty soon you will.

Oh, and a little extra tip from me, buy a bright lipstick and wear it. It will cheer you up.

Feel free to share some of your own tips, I would love to hear from you.

I always pack too much when I go away!

You would think I'd have learned by now, but always without fail, I find myself stuffing my new found bargains in my carry-on, handbag, you name it wherever I can sqeeze some in.

Packing and weighing and re-packing my suitcase, way too stressful if you ask me!

So, this is the first of collection of posts I've come up with on what to pack specifically for each of our destinations. Hey, you never know, I might even take my own advice!

I have also sourced some of the suggestions, so that we can offer them for sale in our new online store! We currently have the essential little black dress, and some great blingy sandels, but will be adding to this regularly.

So, Vegas here we come,

As Vegas is a pretty hot climate most of the year round, although the nights can get chilly if it's not Summer, light clothing is all that's needed. The air-con in the casinos while a welcome relief from the heat in Summer, can get chilly so a light cardigan in your bag is a good idea.

Here is my check-list

- a pair of really, really comfortable shoes/sandels/thongs, take a pair you know you can walk in, as there is alot of walking to be done in Vegas. I always wear thongs to walk in, no blisters or rubbing to contend with later, and more comfy if your feet swell. A really cute jewelled sandel or thong will take you right into the evening as well!

- a basic black singlet dress, either short or maxi is perfect for Vegas, just add a different coloured top over it, and you have a new outfit each day. I like the chiffon swing tops, hides the tummy, and rolls up nicely in the suitcase with no creases. They are also easy to wash and dry quickly.

- The dreaded swimsuit- I have done abit of research here as to what looks ok on my body type, and finally I have found something I am comfortable wearing to the pool. Ok, so I bought a bikini with a skirt, I wear the bottoms with the skirt, and then I found a padded swim-top with great support. I ditched the bikini top, that's not happening ever!! Add a sarong tied around the waist and you're good to go.

- You will need a sun-hat, but I would suggest buying one when you get there, as it will crush in your luggage.

- Finally, that essential, the little black dress for a night out on the town. One that rolls up with no creasing, is stretchy and comfortable, and looks dressy. Add some bling, and there is plenty of that in Vegas, and you'll be ready for anything.

If you really must take heels, just take one pair. Shoes are cheap in Vegas!

A material tote bag that folds up in your suitcase is great for nights out, one that fits a cardi, and a pair of flats for walking back to your hotel. Keep your eye on our store as we will be selling some great blingy ones for night, and some casual ones for day, very soon.

That's it, plenty of room for all that great shopping! Stay tuned for the next destination, Los Angeles....

Visit our online store to view The Vegas Collection....GO TO STORE

Since I started this business I have met some amazing successful women and some amazing women not doing so good. Sometimes the only difference between them is a helping hand. I'm very grateful for the helping hands that I've encountered, and so I would like to pass that on...

So, I have a project!!!

I take a max of 10 in a group on my tours, so if I reach the max of ten booked on each tour, I am prepared to give a woman who really needs it, a complimentary place on the tour.

What I mean by "really needs it" is someone who either has a physical illness e.g. I took a lady who had cancer on my last tour, or a lady who has had a rough time and could do with a hand-up! If you know someone, email me the details and as I said, if my bookings get to the max, then your friend or family member will have a shot.

For this project to work, I need the support of women who are doing well! By booking a tour with me, you are helping someone in need, as well as having a great time yourself of course!

Yes, this is helping my business, but I would rather give my profits to someone in need, than spend it on advertising and boosting their profits.

So, if you think this is a worthwhile project and would like to help out, please share and get those bookings happening so we can make a difference in someone else's life.

For more info or details, please dont hesitate to drop me an email

kate@lafemmetours.com.au