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Flamingo Vegas

By Flamingo Lover | March 28, 2008

Flamingo Lovers have all been in a discussion about pink flamingos and taken some teasing about their love of the flamingo birds. Most often, men enjoy making fun of collecting flamingos. I think it is the color that puts men on the defense. To appreciate pink, is a challenge of their machismo.

For tidbits, about men and flamingo, Bugsy Siegel, a notorious mafia member, built the Flamingo in Las Vegas. I doubt anyone challenged his decision in naming the casino and hotel. They might not have ever been found buried in the Las Vegas desert after he shot them.

Today, the Flamingo is still a popular Las Vegas destination and landmark. I was expecting a big flamingo sign at the entrance. Was disappointed when it was only super neon lights done in flamingo pink colors with nothing denoting a flamingo bird, other than the word “FLAMINGO” spelled across the top. 


Gambling wasn’t my main reason for visiting The Flamingo.  I was there to see what I could find in flamingo memorabilia to add to my collection.  I found that I would have to gamble so that I could at least get some gambling chips with a flamingo to bring home.  There were also coin cups that had a flamingo.  This was when you cashed out in money, not tickets.

All is not lost; there is a gift shop with glasses, shot glasses, assorted tacky flamingo souvenirs or Vegas Flamingo posters to pack for home bar decor. I also recently received a gift from a friend who traveled to the Flamingo Las Vegas. It is a case that I use to hold my cell phone. It is pink and has flamingos all over. 

However, if you can venture away from the gaming at the casino, you can actually see real live pink flamingos in the gardens. It is a beautiful setting and a relaxing break from the lights and loud sounds of the slot machines. The flamingos seem to be unaffected by all the action and noise inside. You can eat in the Flamingo Paradise Garden Buffett nearby and enjoy one of those famous “Las Vegas Buffets”. It is fun to watch the flamingos, swans and other wildlife in a pretty tropical setting while dining.  As Vegas has moved to being more “family friendly”, this is entertainment that can include the kids. 


So, the next time a man rolls his eyes when you are bragging about your flamingo collection, remind him that Bugsy thought it was a good name. Another gangster, Meyer Lansky, took over control from him. In the 40s and 50s, men like Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart, members of the “Rat Pack” and organized crime did plenty of hard drinking and womanizing in and around The Flamingo. No doubt, some gangster murders “hits” were discussed and planned too.

Topics: Destinations For Flamingo Travel |

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