For decades, Las Vegas has been a magnet for travelers chasing bright lights, entertainment, and that classic “Sin City” buzz.
But according to one long-time insider, the city’s magic is fading fast—and it’s not because people stopped loving the Strip.
It’s because the prices have soared so high that both locals and visitors are walking away.
Hospitality Expert Points Finger at Corporate Greed
Aaron Perez, who has spent 16 years planning events in Las Vegas, isn’t holding back.
He believes corporate greed is at the root of the city’s sudden slump in tourism.
Speaking candidly, Perez said casinos and hotels have become so obsessed with squeezing every dollar that they’re driving away the very people who once made Vegas thrive.
“The numbers are down, and for so many locals I think the reason is obvious—they got greedy,” Perez explained.
“Tourists and locals are being nickel-and-dimed to their limits.”
Sticker Shock at Everyday Costs
Perez says the situation has gotten ridiculous, citing examples that sound almost unbelievable.
A friend of his recently stayed at the ARIA Hotel and Casino, where a Diet Coke cost $15, a bottle of water was $26, and a simple plate of nachos ran up a $40 bill—without even proper toppings.
Even basic snacks like popcorn and peanuts were priced at luxury levels.
“These are the kinds of things that make people feel insulted,” Perez said. “Vegas used to be about value, not gouging.”
The End of “Comp Culture”
What really frustrates Perez is that the perks that once defined the Vegas experience have disappeared.
Free drinks, free food, complimentary lounges for loyal players—these were incentives that made people want to come back again and again.
Today, those benefits have been replaced with endless fees.
“Why are you charging for parking when people are already walking in to hand over their money at the tables?” he asked.
“It just feels like every part of the experience is designed to take more and give less.”
International Visitors Choosing Other Destinations
For years, much of Las Vegas’ steady stream of tourists came from abroad—Canadians, Mexicans, Brits, and Australians who saw the city as a prime spot for bachelor parties and getaways.
But now, Perez says, many of them are choosing other destinations instead.
He blames not only the rising costs but also politics, suggesting that America’s global image in recent years has turned off some international travelers.
Covid and Corporate Losses Made It Worse
Perez believes the pandemic accelerated the problem.
After casinos and hotels took major losses, companies looked for quick ways to recoup revenue.
Unfortunately, their solution was to pile new fees and inflated prices onto guests—leaving many feeling exploited instead of welcomed.
Locals Have Stopped Going Too
Even as a resident, Perez says he avoids the Strip now.
He once loved bringing friends out for dinners and nights on the town, but constant overcharging killed the fun.
“As a local who’s been here sixteen years, I never go to the Strip anymore,” he admitted.
Can Vegas Win Back Its Visitors?
Despite his frustration, Perez believes change is possible—but only if businesses start listening.
He’s already seen small signs that some operators are recognizing the backlash.
His own company, GXP Tours Las Vegas, has shifted toward offering personalized, value-driven party packages rather than sending clients to overpriced mega-clubs.
“We started focusing on how it makes people feel, providing quality and value instead of just trying to squeeze as much money as possible,” Perez explained.
Signs of Hope on the Horizon
Perez thinks Las Vegas is on the verge of a turning point.
The industry has pushed prices about as far as they can go without seriously hurting profits, and now the backlash may force a reset.
“A flip is going to happen, and I think we’re right at the cusp of it,” he predicted.
“They can’t push much further without doing real damage.”
