Somehow, all at once, Tao nightclub brings not only a taste of the Orient but also a slice of the Big Apple to the Venetian resort, creating perhaps the ultimate nightlife destination in Las Vegas.

The 10,000-square-foot nightclub, modeled after the successful New York City club of the same name, is just one part – though a massive one – of the $20 million Tao entertainment complex, which also includes a restaurant, banquet facilities and ultra lounge, all located under the watchful eye of Tao's signature 20-foot Buddha.

The nightclub, spread out across two main areas on the upper level of the venue, has become as popular with celebrities as it has with locals and tourists, competing heavily as one of the reigning after-party spots for the youngest and hottest stars of film, music and television.

Tao is a study in contrasts. The Zen-like beauty of its Buddhist-influenced aesthetics – including rock gardens, statues and candles – becomes the backdrop for some of Vegas' most raucous parties.

In the main room, which dwells behind two massive, fortress-like doors, a number of visual and aural delights await club-goers. Most nights will find two stunning, nearly nude women bathing in a golden tub filled with water and roses. Looming over the main dance floor from a raised platform (like an emperor's throne?) is the DJ booth, allowing the mix master to truly control the pulse of the room via an unmatched vantage point.

Directly across from that lofty perch is another raised area, upon which Tao's alluring dancers often perform. Below that is the exclusive, roped-off VIP area, which is often filled with Hollywood's elite.

Located on the Grand Canal Shoppes level of the Venetian, Tao boasts an outside terrace with terrific views of the Las Vegas Strip and of the canals outside the hotel. It's a perfect place for a quiet break from the fever pitch inside.

In addition to a number of VIP seats available on the main floor, there are also eight private sky boxes equipped with mini bars, espresso machines and banquettes featuring secure purse drawers. Bottle service is available for all of these accommodations, as well as in the club's other rooms, which offer a variety of couches and private booths for maximum enjoyment of the club.

There are three bars in total upstairs, including one nestled among hundreds of miniature Buddha statues, all lit by candles in one of Tao's most breathtaking displays.

However, there are many other pleasures to be discovered throughout the club, most of which cannot be done justice by mere description. A trip to Tao will be more than worth it to experience the truth of that statement.

Tao was selected as Best Dance Club and Best Weekly Party (for "Worship") in the 2006 Las Vegas Nighties awards.