Imagine sitting on St. Mark’s Square in Venice, gondolas drifting by at sunset… only you’re actually in the heart of the Nevada desert! In this episode of Culinary Oases, travel podcasters Stefan Hamann and Nils Schelm explore the magic of Las Vegas, the city of spectacular illusions. Their culinary mission: to discover whether the world-famous replica of Venice at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas can truly rival the charm of Italy’s original. They sit down to an authentic Italian dinner at Canaletto Ristorante Veneto, enjoying pasta and wine right on the recreated St. Mark’s Square. Over their meal, they discuss the allure of perfect illusions, the surprisingly expensive cappuccinos in “real” Italy, and the big question: can a flawless copy help preserve the original Venice from over-tourism? But that’s just the beginning. Their day also includes awe-inspiring encounters with sharks and sea turtles at the Shark Reef Aquarium and ends with a childhood dream: seeing comedy legend Tim Allen live at the MGM Grand. This episode combines a Las Vegas restaurant review, cultural insights, and a unique travel diary—perfect for anyone curious about Las Vegas dining, Venetian Resort experiences, and foodie adventures in Sin City.