<div class="bbWrapper">Hi Jenn,<br />
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I actually went to Vegas for the first time for my 30th birthday last year, and went back again this year for my 31st. I think it's gonna be an annual thing from now on <img src="/forums/styles/default/casinomeister/smilies/lolup.gif" class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":lolup:" title="LOL up :lolup:" data-shortname=":lolup:" /><br />
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I'd advise against the Rio because it's REALLY far away from the action on the main strip. If you plan to walk up and down the strip and see the sights then it's waaaaay too far. If you plan to hire a car and drive a lot then it would be ok. Good buffet though, and a decent pool.<br />
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Bally's is definitely more central but I think it lacks character and doesn't seem to have any special attractions as such. If you're on a bit of a budget then all things considered my recommendation would be the Imperial Palace. It's super central, INCREDIBLY friendly staff, always busy (in a good way) and it just has a fun kind of vibe to it. Avoid the buffet though (lovely staff but so-so food, I'm afraid). The only other downside is that the pool is pretty basic and doesn't get the sun past about 5-6pm. If you're on a budget though, that's the one I'd recommend. The "Dealertainers" are also a HOOT - and they're free. It's a fun, cheap and cheerful kind of place.<br />
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If you have a little more to spend then I'd totally recommend Caesar's. GREAT pool, cool place, well kept and a top notch buffet. Definitely more pricey though. The best bit of advice I can give you would be to avoid anywhere too far up or down the strip - Excalibur, the Stratosphere, the Luxor etc. The walking is just too much in the heat.<br />
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Wherever you stay, have a GREAT time, and try and scoop the MEGABUCK$!!!<br />
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Best of luck <img src="/forums/styles/default/casinomeister/smilies/thumbsup.gif" class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":thumbsup:" title="Thumbsup :thumbsup:" data-shortname=":thumbsup:" /></div>