I was referring to the rides, costumed characters and snacks that reminded me of The Happiest Place on Earth.

I wasn't just referring to logging tens of thousands of steps each day or the fact that everything was more expensive than I was used to at home. Throughout the weekend, I found myself exclaiming over and over again, 'This is just like Disneyland!' Related: Getting to Las Vegas on points and miles We decided to go for it, so we spent the weekend of my 40th birthday strolling the glittering Las Vegas Strip. I'd always wanted to see it at least once, but I envisioned passing through on my way to the Grand Canyon or - more likely - Disneyland.

To me, Vegas conjures up images of gambling, buffets and a major lack of sleep. When my husband planned a trip to Las Vegas to celebrate my 40th birthday, I was excited but cautious. I've been to Disney parks more times than I can count, and I've spent birthdays, anniversaries, babymoons and other important milestones with Mickey and his pals. You don't have to know me very well to know that I'm an unabashed Disney adult.

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