Webster's Dictionary defines the word "pivotal" as: of vital or critical importance.

Read on, as I explain why this place (location, location, location) could easily fit that definition...

We began to visit Las Vegas (almost) annually in 1991. Each time, we'd stay at a different resort in order to experience various areas of the "Strip". We took into account room ambiance, check-in/check-out ease, looseness (according to us, not officially) of slots, buffet/other eateries on site, staff response, ease of getting to other casinos without taking a taxi, etc.

We've stayed at seven different resorts from one end of the strip to the other. But we've chosen to stay at the Monte Carlo three times now. Why? Because we feel a sense of well-being when we are here (even when the slots are not as kind as they could be); the rooms are clean and well-kept, the staff is friendly and helpful, the comps are great (remember that you need to ask for these...they don't appear magically), and the free, daily slot tournament is a blast!

Although the Monte Carlo is relatively low-keyed compared to the mega-resort types, the exterior is gorgeous. From the front entrance, fountains and an assortment of statuary delights welcome you as you ascend the winding staircase (also has a ramp for wheelchair access). Once inside, the (relatively) low-ceilinged but elegant casino is laid out so that you can easily move from one bank of slot denominations to another. Table games are conveniently located in the central area of the room, and the restaurants are very succinctly placed on the outer edges of the gaming floor. At the rear of the casino, there is a food court. You can snack on ice cream, pizza, bagels and other breakfast goodies, hamburgers from that famous chain, and a few other culinary offerings. Some of those merchants are open well into the early morning hours, which is great if you want a late-night bite before heading up to your room. Or, you can dine right there, as there is an oasis of tables surrounded by canopied and gated entrances. By the way, the hotel elevators are conveniently located near that food court.

Also at the rear of the casino are the shops that sell sunglasses, clothing, luggage, home-brews (very good!) and the like. As you saunter through this area, keep in mind that you are nearing the monorail station which will take you directly to the Bellagio resort.

(Here is the "pivotal" part of this review!)The little-advertised benefit of an "in-house" monorail is that it is a Godsend if you don't want to hoof it to see the "big guns" in Las Vegas' casino world! This monorail runs only between the Monte Carlo and the Bellagio. So, if you want to experience either of the main areas of the strip, you are very conveniently located without the hassle of dealing with the crowds. From the front entrance, the Monte Carlo is located next to the four corners which boasts the likes of the MGM, the New York New York (just the next door down), the Excalibur and the Tropicana (This is your foot-route option.) Or, take the monorail from the back of the Monte Carlo, and you'll arrive at the heart of the strip where the Bellagio, Caesar's Palace, the Fabulous Flamingo Hilton and Bally's (with the Paris adjoining) are all vying for your hard-earned bucks! Does this make the Monte Carlo a pivotal point? We think so...

Have I said too much? Have I not said enough? I really could go on and on about this little Mediterranean gem. I'll leave it up to you to decide if you'll take me up on my suggestion to stay at this reasonably-priced but luxuriously appointed resort! You can bet that you'll not be disappointed, and maybe you can add your own raves for future Las Vegas goers.

Recommended: Yes