During our first visit to the USA, only my elder son was working. The younger one was still in university, doing his MS. Since it was our first visit, my son wanted to take us to as many places as possible. He was only in the third year of his job and was not flush with funds.

One of the exciting trips was to Las Vegas and LA. Everyone has heard about Las Vegas. We were excited.

It was just a two-hour flight to that place. If I remember well, in those days, anybody could walk through security and give a send-off near the gate or entry to the aerobridge. Such was the freedom. In the flight too, drinks and refreshments were served. Small packets of pretzels, honey-coated peanuts, sometimes even nuts were served in such short flights apart from biscuits. It is a different story now.

As we were about to land, we observed an octogenarian lady taking out the vanity bag and applying lipstick and powder and making herself up. Americans seem to want to look neat and clean and well-dressed as well as well-made up. At the same time, I have not so far seen anyone look down at somebody who is not so neatly dressed. Needs appreciation.

My son had booked a car for use in Las Vegas. The free air-conditioned bus took us to an appointed place where the car was waiting with the engine running. As we got out, the attendant, after checking credentials, handed over the key, and after loading our baggage, we were off to the hotel.

This being our first experience, this sort of efficiency, speed, and service was a surprise to us. It was a Ford. Being from India, we were under the impression this was the best car. How could we know there are any number of models of cars ranging from X to Z in facilities and cost? But Ford looked like a dream car to us.

We had booked our stay in Aladdin Hotel. As we entered the hotel and got out for check-in, the car was taken by the valet for valet parking. This was another thing to which we were not exposed or had never heard of.

Thus, our stay in this dreamland had its beginnings.

Continued in 249. Lost Way Guys - Part 2