Los Angeles to Las Vegas: a star-studded vacation

Of all the places in the United States to get a glimpse into the life of the stars, perhaps no two destinations offer more than Las Vegas and Los Angeles. And given the proximity of the two, it's completely possible - even convenient - to hit both glamorous destinations in one trip.

In fact, reliving the famous car trips made in movies such as "Swingers" and "The Hangover" can be one of the attractions of such a trip. And nothing quite compares to the surreal experience of seeing the Vegas lights emerge over the barren desert landscape.

Starting your trip from either direction is easy, as cheap flights to Las Vegas are widely available because of its popularity as a tourist destination, and deals can also be easily found on Los Angeles vacation packages. However you choose to do it, be sure to check out the following destinations along the way:

Hollywood: Check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame along Vine Street for a who's-who of showbiz past and present while keeping your eyes peeled for stars in the flesh. If you're lucky, you may be able to get a glimpse of stars on the red carpet heading into a premiere at Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

The Sunset Strip: The strip contains rock clubs made famous in the '70s and '80s, including Whisky a Go Go and Roxy. Many celebrities live in the Hollywood Hills above the strip, making it a prime spot for stargazing.

Beverly Hills: Also a haven for many stars, Beverly Hills features the famed Rodeo Drive, which features some of the most exclusive shops and restaurants in the country. It presents a great opportunity for splurging if you have expensive tastes, or just for people watching if you don't. The city also features some of the most exclusive hotels in Los Angeles, where you never know who may be passing through the doors.

The Vegas Strip: Perhaps nowhere in America is decadence more on display than on the Vegas Strip. Take in one of the many running shows given by the likes of Celine Dion or Wayne Newton. In Vegas, you're just as likely to spot stars in the audience - or in the casinos, clubs or restaurants - as you are on stage.

Downtown Las Vegas: If you're a fan of cinema and pop culture, you'll recognize many iconic symbols downtown, including the waving cowboy and The Horseshoe casino. Downtown offers more of the vintage Vegas experience, as much of the new development occurs along the strip.