Vegas. It priced itself into a corner.
Visitor numbers are down 12% year on year and tourism has fallen for six months. Rooms that were $150 are now $300 plus, and a cocktail runs at $30.
THE GIST ON VEGAS: "Canary"
How bad is the Vegas slump?
Tourism has fallen for the last six months, with visitor numbers down 12% year on year. Hotel occupancy is sliding, airport traffic is down, and even drive ins from California have slowed. Workers from casino staff to restaurant crews are seeing cut hours and job losses.
What is behind it?
Prices. Rooms that used to be $150 a night are now $300 plus. Cocktails run at $30, and resort fees, parking and add ons make trips feel overpriced. Even international visitors from Mexico and Canada are pulling back.
What does it mean?
Vegas built its brand on being over the top, but it has priced itself into a corner. When the spectacle stops feeling worth the money, people pull back. Huw calls Vegas a canary in the coal mine, because tourism is one of the first things to go when money is tight.
Is Vegas still worth the money?
Your take. One tap, then see how everyone else voted.
Quick answers
How far have Vegas visitor numbers fallen?
Down 12% year on year, with tourism falling for six months.
Why are people staying away?
Prices: rooms of $300 plus, $30 cocktails, and resort fees and parking on top.
See you on the next one.
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The conversation
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