goin to vegas for first time. ...need a little advice...

Someone mentioned William Hill. They have locations in a lot of the bars. You can sign up for an account, place your bets at the kiosk and go back to the bar and slam free drinks while playing video poker. A list of casinos and bars is easily found.

Another option could be the Palms which is a Cantor property ( Cantor now called CG Technology). You can open an account there and bet from the cubicles, don't even have to get up. Not sure if that is available at other Cantor properties, but I'm guessing South Point has that as well.

I'd stay at the Rio (Off-strip) but part of CET (easiest to get comped rooms).They have two free shuttles to parts of the strip.Once you've seen the strip it's no big deal.,better values are out there.Porn slappers are annoying as hell,picture taking tourists,scammers,drunks,crazies you name it..

Carnival Court is a good spot to meet partying chicks just outside Harrah's..if you have any game at all forget the escorts..

Rio has a decent book,pretty easy to get drink tix from the tellers if you tip them a bit and Ive never had to wait too long in line even on NFL opening Sunday.Once they recognize you over the trips,same with the bartenders,you are never waiting on a beer/drink.

But from the Rio- Gold Coast is a few minute walk away with Boyd odds/lines and another few minute walk from there is the Palms/Cantor? with thier odds/lines.The GC does have some degens in it all day and the book isn't that 'cozy'.Palms has it's share of degen locals also,but some amazing HD screens.But if you can get that extra .5 it's worth the walks and watch the game at the Rio..Good deli off the Rio book as well..Rio rooms are huge and all have safes and mini-fridge..

I'd take whatever left from the travel budget and roll that though the slots per day depending how many days you are booked in LV,and you're well on your way to mid-week comped rooms or cheaper rate than the general public.Be SURE to sign up for players cards or you will not get in the system for future comps.I'd go for 4 nights also..first trip,you barely get a feel for what's up and it's over..

I am a low-rolling sports/racing bettor and Video Poker player 4 nights comped at the Rio twice a year is never a problem.Going out end of March..Anyway,have a great trip man! Hope you hit them good!