This Is Why The New Program Sucks

Everything You Need to Know About the Las Vegas Pay-to-Park Disaster

It's only a few extra bucks. What's the big deal?

It's not that visitors or locals are unwilling to pay an extra few dollars here and there. That's why we gladly tip the cocktails servers, valet attendants, and anyone else who is working hard to contribute to our experience on the Strip. However, there is resentment that a multi-billion dollar company wants to squeeze every nickel and penny out of its customers... just because it can. Apparently it's not enough that the casinos in Las Vegas have already squashed competition like Powerball in the state, and have used their political influence to keep tax burdens in check for decades -- while the Nevada school system runs dry of the same money that the casino floors soak in. It's now chipping away at some of the best aspects of what makes Las Vegas awesome: its convenience and low cost-of-living. MGM Resorts has been eagerly pointing out that other destination cities, from Los Angeles to Orlando, already charge much more for parking in tourist areas. But that's the point. Las Vegas isn't like any other city. We come here to waste money when we want to. Not because we have to. It's part of a tradition that says "come where the parking and valet is free so you can spend your money on the casino floor instead." It's the Sin City version of freedom: blowing money on your own terms.

If you haven't pulled your car into the parking garage of the Bellagio or Mirage, driven up to the top level and soaked in the quiet open air neon view of the Strip, then you truly haven't experienced Las Vegas.

(Thrillist.com)