First trip to Las Vegas

[Anonymous]

Any hotel recommendations? There's just so many to choose from. Also, is it better to rent a car? Or are the tram and taxis a better idea?

[Anonymous]

If you stay on the Strip I don't think you really need a car.

The Wynn is the nicest hotel on the Strip, but it's expensive. We stayed at the Mirage and it was totally fine.

[Anonymous]

I got a great deal a couple of years ago on a suite at the Bellagio. I found it through their website. We were put off by Vegas generally (our first trip, too). The one bright spot was the Bellagio - it was nice to come home to. It tends to be on the pricey side but the deal I found on line was much better than the rates of some competitors, like the Venetian.

[Anonymous]

My friend and I stayed at the Venetian mostly b/c of the Canyon Ranch Spa. Many restaurants, most of them good, nice rooms. It was a blast.

[Anonymous]

On the high end, I've stayed at the Venetian, and it was great - especially for a romantic trip. I've also stayed at Bally's, and while it was no Venetian, it was a nice place to stay and very well-priced. I liked the location of Bally's a bit better.

[Anonymous]

We've always been able to find the best deals at the Bellagio's and the Paris's own websites. I love both these hotels b/c they're in the middle of the strip and really convienent. If you stay at the Paris (which is across the street from the Bellagio) ask to get a room that faces the Bellagio fountains.

[Anonymous]

PP - one more thought. Don't rent a car if you're planning on staying on the strip -- it's much easier to walk or cab. However, if you're going to be there awhile, consider renting a car and driving out to Hoover Dam. We did this on our first trip out there and it was so memoriable. You could then use the car to swing by the old part of Las Vegas and return it at your hotel.

[Anonymous]

I've stayed at the Venetian and the Luxor. The Luxor was fine, but a bit younger crowd. I really liked the Venetian. If I could afford it, I would stay at the Bellagio. The Wynn is pretty cool also, but a bit different from the other casinos. Do not rent a car for your entire stay. If you want to make a trip to Hoover dam or another day trip then just rent a car for the day. We did that when we stayed at the Luxor. Some car rental agency (Budget?) had a place associated with the hotel next door so we just walked over, rented a car and went on our way.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone for your suggestions. We ended up booking at The Hotel at Mandalay Bay. I'm hoping it's as nice as all the reviews say.
I did reserve the rental because it's only $120 and apparently the hotel is at the end of the strip so a car was recommended. And we do plan on taking a drive to see everything in the surrounding areas.
Thanks again!

[Anonymous]

Go see Danny Ganz - his show is great!
Have dinner at the restaurant at the Paris hotel - it's neat - like you are in the Eiffel Tower.
You made a good decision for the hotel - IMO.

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I stayed at the Mandalay Bay a few years ago and loved it. I'm not sure when you are planning your trip but the hotel is offering rates of $ 65 per night for certain dates. See link below. Have fun!!

http://hotels.travelzoo.com/las-vegas-hotels/533365?utm_source=top20_us&utm_medium=email_top20

[Anonymous]

Hi.

PP here. I just realized you are staying at The Hotel... I think those rates are $ 85 but still a great deal!

[Anonymous]

One thing to note about Vegas: You have to stand at a designated cab stand to get a cab. You can't just hail one. It's just how it works there. But, they're everywhere. Unless you are planning on doing some off-the-beaten-path sightseeing* (which I would totally encourage), you can probably get away without renting a car and do great.

* e.g., the Neon Graveyard