Let me be clear, I hate Vegas.  I hate the zombie people, the filth, the smoke, and packs stupid girls living out their version of Jersey Shore drama.\n\nThe moment I walked through the doors of the Aria, any fears that I had of being back in Sin City were assuaged.  A blast of sweet vanilla scented air enveloped me as I walked in--the first clue that this is not going to be your typical Vegas experience.  The lobby is sleek and it felt like I was walking into the lobby of a W Hotel.  No ridiculous lines to check in or batches of bridal shower bimbos.  The experience is upscale from the start.  From a smooth and easy check in, I went to the concierge, who immediately booked a table for me at Sage (fantastic!), then off I went to the 54th floor.  YES, the 54th floor baby! Free upgrade at check in--THAT was nice.\n\nThe moment I opened the door to the room, the lights came on and the curtains drew back automatically.  The lighting, heat, and entertainment area all controlled by a device that sort of looks like an iPad.  THe room design was nice and with floor to ceiling glass I was able to look down onto the strip from a bird's eye view.  IMPRESSIVE.  The room was nicely appointed and the bedding is the stuff of dreams.  The bathroom had a cool set up and was perfect.\n\nThe Aria is so different from the rest because the feel throughout is upscale and sophisticated.  Unlike some of the allegedly upscale dinosaurs on the strip, the Aria has a hip and almost European feel to it--perhaps largely due to the amazing patisserie and gelato bar on the casino floor.  Yes, there is a casino obviously, this is Vegas right, but you NEVER get overwhelmed by it.  For the life of me, I don't even remember hearing a single \"ding-ding-ding!\"  Clearly, the designers of the Aria were astute enough to make the gaming experience discreet.\n\nThe Aria is unlike any other, and having stayed at the Wynn, the Encore, MGM, Aladdin, and others, it will be the only place I say, should I find myself back in Vegas.