As you're walking north on the Strip, and just as you pass the rowdy Casino Royale (stop in for one of their free frozen margaritas, but don't venture in much farther if you're a woman alone), you will come upon Harrah's. This used to be a Holiday Inn, but Harrah's bought them out, and tore down the old "Ship on the Strip". What emerged was a lot better than the old boat! Where the ship was located has been turned into an outdoor mall called Carnival Court, with various vendors selling T-shirts, jewelry and other things, and an outdoor bar area where bands play after dark and the bartenders provide entertainment by juggling the liquor bottles. As you pass this and enter Harrah's from the south, there is also a bar called the LaPlaya Lounge, where bands play almost 24 hours a day (one drink minimum, but they have specials -- their Long Islands are just $3.25 and taste great, and are potent too).

I love Harrah's, especially because I win there, but even when I don't, the friendly employees that work in the casino make it such a festive atmosphere that I don't mind losing. The best machines are the new Price is Right machines located near the north entrance of the casino. These are nickel slots, but don't assume you're a low roller just because they take nickels -- you can bet up to 45 nickels on just one spin. The very first time I sat down at these machines and inserted $5.00 worth of credits, I won $50.00 on my very first spin!

In all the times I've stayed and/or played at Harrah's, I never once have encountered a disgruntled employee. Even the women who work at the change redemption booths are very pleasant.

The room I had was pretty much on the caliber of a Holiday Inn room, nothing fancy, but the room is very clean and the showers are hot, the room is large and is convenient to the casino area. It had plenty of closet and drawer space. It serves me just fine; rather than spend $100's of dollars a night for a room at Bellagio, I'd rather pay $55 and have more spending money. Don't get me wrong, Bellagio is very nice, and it's worth it to stay there just once.

For an unusual gift shop, check out the Rajun Cajun; it's not your typical Las Vegas gift shop stuff - you know - like the dice clocks -- one of the items sold here is a preserved alligator head, among other strange things.

For a good time in Vegas, check out Harrah's!


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