Traveling to Sin City: A Guide for Rookies

When reputations precede, it's difficult meet and almost impossible to exceed expectations. Las Vegas is billed as the capital of partying - a Mecca for uninhibited good times, and Sin City is constantly doubling down to maintain its reputation. If you've never visited this luminescent oasis, words won't capture what it's like to have such a buffet of entertainment (and food) in one place, but you can prepare yourself to get the most out of a Vegas vacation. From pools to clubs to clubs with pools, Vegas allows you to mix and match whatever fun your heart desires. Consider this your Vegas starting guide, and be prepared to rip into shreds once you hit the city.

Hit the Club

Featuring pumping music, pulsating dance floors and flowing drinks, nothing captures the Strip's energy better than a Vegas club. Check out Tao, located in the Venetian Hotel. This multileveled hotspot has three bars and an outdoor lounge, complete with a pool. If you're looking for a modern feel, head to the Marquee Nightclub located at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. Open from 10:00pm to 4:00am on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, this posh club keeps the party going well into the morning.

Test Your Luck

Through the years, Vegas has never stopped evolving its entertainment to keep up with the times, but one constant has been Sin City's pulse since it hit the map: gambling. Try your luck at one of the many legendary casinos. Shoot craps in style at the famous Bellagio casino or play blackjack where Sinatra put the Flamingo on the map. Get a little taste of The Rat Pack with the homage show at the Crown Theater to get a taste of a ring-a-ding-ding. Most Las Vegas casinos are open 24 hours a day, so you can plan your days around time-sensitive activities and gamble when it's convenient.

Eat 'Til You Drop

With so much to do, you'll need plenty of fuel to keep your body going. Luckily, Las Vegas boasts unique cuisine up and down the Strip. If your looking for a meal as diverse as the city, try one of the many buffets. One of the latest splashes on the Vegas food scene is the Bacchanal buffet, which offers its diners more than 500 fresh dishes in a hall fit for a king. At $39.99 a plate for dinner, this isn't your average cafeteria-food diner. Chefs cook all the food fresh throughout the hall, so you know you're getting a fresh meal. If you're looking for something a little more personal, try the Top of the World restaurant at the Stratosphere Hotel. This revolving dining experience offers unforgettable views and quality food.

Soak Up the Sun

With so much action, you'll need some time to unwind. Not to worry, Las Vegas pools provide weary partiers with a way to enjoy Nevada's plentiful sunshine. The retro pool at the Tropicano hotel will help you keep cool with some groovy tunes. Kids with enjoy the Flamingo pool, which features a maze-like series of water slides. We all get a little crazy on vacay. Just make sure you take care of your room.

Daniel Morris Dan writes several blogs for the casino, gambling and betting industry. He is married with two daughters, who he says are his smartest bets.