by Zach F

Created on: July 28, 2009   Last Updated: October 10, 2011

Visiting the Las Vegas is fun no matter what time of year you choose to come. If you are looking for a deal, convention-slow and desert-hot summer is probably the best time. If, on the other hand, you have spare money but would like to walk the strip, Las Vegas's mild winter may be better.

In terms of where to stay, there are so many choices personal taste must be a factor. For budget-minded travelers, Monte Carlo usually has very reasonable rates. It also has a beautiful pool, complete with a lazy river, Diablo's Cantina, a fun Mexican restaurant/bar, and a young crowd. Best of all, it is located right in the middle of the action.

On the other hand, Vegas is not what it used to be, where all people did at their hotels was sleep. Although visitors may not spend a lot of time in their room, it is very easy to go an entire trip without leaving the hotel. For a hotel that offers it all, from dining to entertaining to sightseeing, the Bellagio is great. The AAA five-diamond property has restaurants ranging from a buffet and snack bar to fine dining collaborations with world-famous chefs, and a great night club.

Dining similarly must be tailored to individual tastes. For a gourmet, yet relaxed meal, Sensi at the Bellagio is a must. The cuisine is Italian, Asian, Seafood and American Grill, and the restaurant is beautifully designed. Everything from the waterfalls to the open kitchen to the place mats was hand picked by the chef, and the attention to detail has paid off. The ginger ale is homemade, and a must.

For more budget-minded diners, try the all-day pass at the Excalibur and Luxor buffet. For a very reasonable price, guests can enjoy both buffets all day long.

But of course, no trip to Vegas would be complete without a little gambling. Most casinos offer free gaming lessons during the day, at times posted throughout the casino floor. Buy-in can be steep, though, for someone just learning the ropes. Slots-A-Fun, located in the parking lot of Circus Circus Las Vegas, is great for beginners, with $3 craps, $1 roulette, and $2 blackjack tables.

Outside of gambling, there is still a lot to do. First, one can travel the world. Visit Lady Liberty at New York-New York, take a gondola ride at The Venetian, and climb the Eiffel Tower at the Paris, all in one day.

For thrill seekers, New York-New York and the Sahara both offer roller coaster rides, as does the Adventure Dome at Circus Circus. Of course, who can forget the Stratosphere with its rides?

Walking the strip

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