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NYT Daily • August 3, 2025

Carnival-themed Vegas hotel

Answer:

RIO

Hint:

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue **\"Carnival-themed Vegas hotel\"** with the answer **\"RIO\"**:\n\n*\"This hotel’s name is also a Brazilian city known for its famous festival.\"*\n\nThis hint:\n- Connects the Carnival theme to Brazil (narrowing the focus).\n- Mentions the city aspect, which is part of the hotel’s name.\n- Avoids repeating the original clue or giving away the answer directly."]

Explanation:

The clue **"Carnival-themed Vegas hotel"** leads to the answer **"RIO"** through the following reasoning: 1. **Carnival Connection**: The word "Carnival" is a strong hint toward **Rio de Janeiro**, Brazil, which is famous for its vibrant and world-renowned Carnival festival. 2. **Vegas Hotel**: In Las Vegas, there is a well-known hotel and casino called **The Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino**, which is themed around the festive atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro's Carnival. 3. **Wordplay**: The clue cleverly combines the cultural reference to Rio's Carnival with the specific name of a Vegas hotel, making "RIO" the perfect fit. Thus, the answer **"RIO"** is derived from both the Carnival association and the actual name of the Las Vegas hotel.