Out with the old, in with the new. Bellagio’s Gardens alwaysplease the senses – no matter the theme – it is a complete delight, from the colors and design to the moist, pleasant air that one can feel as soon as they enter. One sight that always tends to make me smile is the Monkey PUzzle Tree, and it is on display each year during Chinese New Year. It brings my buddy Jim AKA the Monkey to mind. They really are nothing alike. WAIT! Maybe they have more in common than I think. You be the judge.

The biggest difference is that the Monkey Puzzlie Tree is on display at Bellagio’s Gardens and Jim isn’t. But according to a phone call last week, Jim may be on display this weekend in the poker room as he lights up the $30-60H tables with a mutual friend, Glen. They are leaving the snow and distress in Colorado behind and coming out to raise a little HELL at the poker tables in Vegas. I’m sure they will leave some distress behind when they head back to Colorado.

As one enters the Gardens, on the far right, this sight would alert even me to the fact that it is the year of the Pig.

At the back of the Garden, on the right, as one would enter Cafe Bellagio, they pass by the Pagoda.

This is the first time the Banyan Tree hasn’t been present in the theme.The theme isall bamboo, Monkey Puzzle Trees, rock, palms, and flowers – thousands upon thousands of flowers. The perfect example of flower use is ‘the children’.

All of the children are on the left when you enter the Gardens. The center is reserved for this character – and sad as it is, I didn’t bother to read the sign that explains what he is. He’s in a sea of flowers, on an island of gold coins, so I’m assuming it’s something wonderful to do with good luck, good fortune, good joss.

The far backleft has a FenShui waterfall – beside the pagoda – that emits mist.

Looking toward registration, the Obelisk.

Registration has a repeat from previous years. This beauty stands underneath the massive hand blown chandelier.

If you haven’t taken the time to stroll through the Gardens at Bellagio, no matter what time of year, you’ve missed a wonderful experience. Make it a must do on your next trip.