A - We recommend you drink lots of water. Avoid the tap water; buy one of those trendy bottled waters. The prices for the bottled stuff are quite high at the hotels, so stop by a local grocery store or convenience store and stock up.

Q - What is the weather like?

A - The temperature gets to be about 115 degrees in the summer. It's a dry heat. It's a good idea to carry with you at all times the following items: lip balm, sunscreen and lotion. It is even a good idea to pick up some re-wetting drops, especially if you wear contacts.

Q - Where can I use a cell phone or walkie talkie?

A - Cell phones and walkie talkies are a great way to keep in touch with fellow travelers while in Vegas. Just keep in mind that most casinos frown upon their use on the casino floor. Walkie talkie users actually say the signal is clearer than on cell phones, plus they're generally cheaper, but they do have a far more limited range.

Q - Can I get gambling lessons?

A - When you initially sit down at a table, perhaps for a game of blackjack, do yourself a favor -- take lessons if the casino offers them. If lessons aren't available, spend a couple of bucks on the crib card that supplies the basics. When all else fails, ask questions. The dealers are there to help -- and most of the time they're happy to do so. Still trying to find your way around the tables and feeling intimidated by the high table limits on the Strip? Head for downtown Vegas. The table minimums for craps, pai-gow poker and "let it ride" are usually lower, so your learning curve won't cost you too much.

Q - Is my money safe in a casino?

A - Coins in a bucket or chips in your hands seem more like play money than the real thing. Our advice is to keep your change buckets close and your chips even closer. If your winnings become too heavy to lug around, be sure to make use of the hotel safe.

Q - Should I join a Player's club?

A - Sign up for the frequent gambler card at your favorite hotels. Use the card to accumulate points, since you'll probably be gambling anyway, and perhaps receive something free. It helps to be on the mailing list for a lot of hotels. Who knows, they might pick you for a special room rate or decide to send you tickets to a free show.

Q - Where should we meet?

A - Hotel-casinos are larger than they look -- telling your party to meet you at the bar could leave them wandering around. Name a specific location all will be able to find -- such as the front desk or the casino's showroom.

Q - Is it Las Vegas or a theme park?

A - One of the most-raved-about roller coasters on the Strip is the Manhattan Express at New York - New York. Although it's not a roller coaster, the Big Shot at the Stratosphere gets high marks for scariness. Another must-see at the Stratosphere is X Scream, which shoots riders 27 feet over the edge of the tower at speeds of up to 30 mph before pulling them back to safety.

Q - What is free?

A - Las Vegas offers free drinks when you gamble, free lounge acts, free parking and a few free attractions. MGM MIRAGE Resorts has made an art of outdoor exhibits with the Sirens of TI at Treasure Island, the Volcano at the Mirage and the Fountains at the Bellagio. For the mushy, sentimental attraction, visit the MGM Grand's Lion Habitat. The multilevel viewing area allows you to see several lions and cubs in a lush environment. Another Vegas must-see is the Bellagio's Conservatory, gorgeous any time of the year.

Q - I missed the Bellagio fountain, when does it start again?

A - It's 8 p.m. on a Saturday night; you're on the sidewalk in front of the Paris Las Vegas and suddenly the Fountains at the Bellagio beckon. You (a) run as fast as you can across the street hoping you didn't miss a drop; (b) stay where you are and enjoy the show from there; or (c) look for the nearest crosswalk, knowing that if you missed anything, the show starts all over again in a mere 15 minutes.

Q - What can I do that doesn't cost a lot?

A - Check out the Auto Collections at the Imperial Palace, take a stroll through the casino first -- there always is someone handing out free passes. If you want to see some one-of-a-kind art without the hefty price tag for admission, stop by THEhotel at Mandalay Bay. Go through the entrance and around to the lobby area of THEhotel; there you will find a rotating exhibit of pop and modern art. You also should do a little celebrity sighting at Madame Tussauds. But be sure to walk through the Grand Canal Shops at the Venetian first, where you'll find a Madame Tussauds' employee handing out coupons for $4 off.

Another option is to pick up unlimited ride passes that are available at most attractions. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or just trying to occupy the kids for a bit, you'll definitely get your money's worth. At the Circus Circus Adventuredome, rides average $4 to $6, but you can get an unlimited pass for $21.95. The Roller Coaster at New York - New York costs $14 for one ride, and riders can make another trip for an additional $7. An all-day pass can be bought for $25.

Q - Is there anything to do off the Strip?

A - Most people aren't aware of it, but there's a lot to see away from Las Vegas Boulevard. Check out the Old Mormon Fort and see one of the original Las Vegas homesteads. Right down the street is the Lied Discovery Children's Museum, one of the gems of downtown Las Vegas. It's meant for children, but it's just as much fun for the grown-ups. And the Liberace Museum. Liberace's flamboyant costumes and jewelry are as bright and colorful as the Las Vegas Strip at night.

Take a drive to the Red Rock Canyon Loop. A small per-car fee will get you onto the 13-mile scenic drive through Red Rock Canyon, and it's definitely worth the price of admission. You also can drive out past Red Rock to the Spring Mountain Ranch, a great place to picnic. The ranch also charges a per-car entrance fee.

The District at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson is a unique Vegas shopping experience, not to mention a great place to grab some delectable food. The heart of The District is its tree-lined "Main Street," flanked by more than 40 specialty retail stores and restaurants. Pedestrians can stroll along cobblestone sidewalks, relax on park benches or even bring Fido to one of the pet-friendly areas. Dining options include Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que and local favorite the Elephant Bar Restaurant.

The Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Cactus Garden resides in nearby Henderson. Tour the factory for free, sample a piece of chocolate at the end of the tour then tour the botanical garden, which houses some of the desert's most precious species

Q - Are there any restaurants with a view?

A - Two Vegas restaurants take the phrase "a room with a view" to a new level. The Top of the World revolving restaurant at the Stratosphere and the Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris Las Vegas both offer spectacular views of Vegas. Do you want beautiful scenery without the height? Guests can gaze at the Bellagio fountains from several delicious Bellagio restaurants: Circo, Le Cirque, Prime, Jasmine and Todd English's Olives. Mon Ami Gabi at Paris also offers delectable food and a delightful view of the fountains.

Q - What about the famous Las Vegas buffets?

A - There is a great buffet guide on Las Vegas.com. Prices, times and food specialties are listed.

Q - I'm looking for Brazilian BBQ?

A - Brazilian barbecue is a dream come true. The meat and fish are marinated in Brazilian herbs, cooked on a rotisserie and then carved tableside. Since Las Vegas is quickly becoming the restaurant capital of the world, they offer three such restaurants: Yolie's Brazilian Steakhouse, the first restaurant of its kind in Las Vegas; the Samba Grill (at the Mirage); and rumjungle (at Mandalay Bay).

Q - How about surf and turf?

A - It's not on the menu, but Mr. Lucky's 24/7 -- the Hard Rock Hotel's coffee shop -- offers an inexpensive, fabulous and filling surf-and-turf. A steak cooked to your tastes, three grilled jumbo shrimp, a dinner salad and your choice of potato, for $7.77. Remember: It's not on the menu. You'll need to say the magic words, "I would like the steak-and-shrimp special, please." Don't forget to say "please."

Q - Crazy for éclairs?

A - Make sure to stop by Lenôtre at Paris Las Vegas. If you're not in the mood for an éclair, they also offer croissants, fresh bread and numerous pastries, including the Concerto, which has a tasty chocolate violin perched on top.

Q - How about a burger?

A - West Coast chains In-N-Out Burger and Fatburger, now try them for yourselves and see how they compare.

Q - I'm hungry and it's 3 am?

A - If you're looking to wind down after a show, an especially wonderful spot to hang out and grab a cocktail or dessert is the Peppermill. The lounge and coffee shop are open 24 hours a day.

Q - Shrimp for mere cents?

A - You can still get great deals for less than $1. Head over to the Golden Gate for the 99-cent shrimp cocktail.

Q - What exactly are Lounge shows?

A - You're in Vegas -- Lounge Band Capital of the World. Every hotel has a lounge with a variety of acts, and about 99 percent are free. The Bar at Times Square in New York-New York is truly unique, with New York Piano Duos nightly, free during the weekdays. Request a song and watch the two piano players try to outdo each other.

Q - Are there free shows?

A - Las Vegas offers free drinks when you gamble, free lounge acts, free parking and a few free shows. Fremont Street is always bustling with activity, including free live concerts on the two main stages.

Q - What about a real Las Vegas show?

A - Many people complain that Vegas stage shows are getting too expensive, but most of them are worth it. Buy the tickets in advance, as many shows sell out, especially during busy holiday weekends. However, don't be discouraged if a show is sold out. It may be worthwhile to check for tickets the day of the event as unclaimed tickets, either for a production show or one-night event, may become available. Here are some other show tips:

• If a showroom offers table seating and booth seating, you might want to spend the extra money for the booth. There is nothing worse than sitting at a table and craning your neck for a better view.
• Some shows offer general admission tickets, so guests are seated on a first-come-first-served basis. Be sure to get there early if you prefer to be up close and personal with the entertainers.
• If price is an issue, but you really want to see a specific show, ask for limited-view seats. Some shows on the Strip offer these seats; however, keep in mind that your view may be partially obstructed at various times during the performances. Also, save your money and consider grabbing a drink before the show, as the most expensive drinks in Vegas are sold in the showroom. Unless the show requires a minimum drink purchase, it's best not to buy any beverages, be it alcoholic or not, in the showroom if you are visiting Vegas on a budget.

A - Want to enjoy a club or lounge without the cover charge? Stop by rumjungle or VooDoo Lounge for a pre-dinner cocktail before these clubs start enforcing their cover charge. Enjoy your drink and the atmosphere without the crowds and the $20 entrance fee.

Q - Are there specialty clubs?

A - If you want to hit a number of gay clubs in one night, stick to the loop by the Hard Rock on Paradise Road. Four clubs -- Gipsy, Freezone, Suede and Buffalo -- are all within walking distance, making for the most amount of fun with a limited amount of time and walking. And with no cover at Suede or Buffalo, you can spend more money on cocktails.

Q - Are there outlet stores in Las Vegas?

A - Try shopping at the Fashion Outlets in Primm, south of Vegas on the California/Nevada state line. Its circular layout is easy on the feet -- you don't have to backtrack -- and the crowds are invariably light. You can leave the high rent district of the Strip to dig through the racks at the Last Call-Neiman Marcus store, Banana Republic or the Williams-Sonoma Outlet. There are two outlet malls right in Vegas as well. Try the Las Vegas Outlet Center on the south end of the Strip or the Las Vegas Premium Outlets downtown.

Q - How about a great book store?

A - Looking for a few things to read on the plane back home? Head over to Mandalay Place and check out The Reading Room, a unique independent bookstore that has a special section devoted to limited editions.

Q - I just want Souvenirs, where are they?

A - You can't take a trip to Vegas and go home empty-handed. For some of the city's best keepsakes, head over to Bonanza, the self-proclaimed "World's Largest Gift Shop" or Gambler's General Store. You'll find everything from casino chip key chains to dice clocks.

Q - What to tip and when?

A - Because Vegas is a service-based city, tipping is a big, big deal.

• Bellmen: They usually receive $1 a bag, but an extra tip is suggested if you ask them to make show reservations or if they help you with taxis, etc.
• Cigarette Girls: About $1 to $2 is sufficient, depending on how much you buy and how many times you want her to return.
• Concierge: If the concierge helps you arrange show tickets, tours, hair appointments or anything else, it is customary to leave a tip. It's up to the customer, but anywhere from $2 to $20 is graciously accepted.
• Front desk clerks: If you're looking for a room upgrade, tipping the front desk clerk can get you a better room. We leave it up to your discretion, but we've heard everything from $10 to $50.
• Valet parking attendants: We suggest $1 to $2 for valet parking attendants when you drop off and pick up. If you want them to leave the car up front, be prepared to tip higher, anywhere between $10 to $30 depending upon how busy it is.
• Taxi drivers: These folks drive like mad to get you where you're going, they help you with your bags, and provide a little chit-chat along the way. About 15 percent of your total fare should make up for their efforts.
• Dealers: Tipping a dealer is a little trickier. You can give the dealer a tip in between hands or spins, and this tip can range from $1 to as much as you want to give. You also can wait until the end of your session and tip the dealer then.
• Keno and bingo runners: $1 every few rounds is acceptable and suggested even if you aren't winning.
• Cocktail waitresses: About $1 to $2 per round is sufficient for a small group (two to three people). Increase it for larger groups. Don't fail to tip, even if your drinks are comped.
• Food servers: Unless your bill indicates that a gratuity has been included, tip your food server 15 to 20 percent depending on the quality of their service. Drop a buck or two at the buffet as well.
• Room service: The food is already outrageously priced. But don't hold that against the people who have to lug your breakfast back and forth from the kitchen to your hotel room. Go with the standard 15 to 20 percent of the bill, unless the bill indicates a tip has already been added.
• Change person: Don't forget to slip a few bucks to these helpful folks -- especially if you win. Don't try to palm off a $5 tip for a Megabucks win; it's insulting.
• Slot supervisors: They fix bill jams and fill the hopper, allowing you to collect your jackpot -- could it hurt to tip a buck or two?
• Pool attendants: Slip the attendant handing out towels a dollar or two between dips in the pool.
• Maids: We'd recommend $1 to $2 a day for the maid service in your hotel room.

A - How on earth will you get that cocktail waitress's attention? And when you do order, how will she remember who you are when she returns with your drink? First of all, money talks. Many people have been known to tip the waitress when they order the drink and for each subsequent order. Since the drinks are free, this is no time to be stingy. Second, be courteous. It seems obvious, but so many patrons are rude to these women that they really do remember the customers who treat them decently

Q - How do I get to the hotel from the airport?

A - Don't get long-hauled: After a couple of hours on the plane, you've arrived in Vegas. When you get in the taxi, tell the driver you want to be taken to your hotel via Swenson Avenue, NOT the airport tunnel. The airport tunnel may seem faster because it connects to the freeway and has fewer lights, but the route is several miles longer resulting in cab fares that are $5 to $10 more. This is called "long-hauling," and taxi drivers can be ticketed and fined if they are caught. Besides, if you hit the airport tunnel route during rush hour, any time savings you gain using the freeway will disappear in the exhaust of the morning or evening commute. So say NO to the airport tunnel (the only tunnel in Vegas). The average cab fare from the airport to the Center Strip is $15. For around $10 per person, several limousine companies offer hotel shuttle service. You may have to share a ride with other people.

Q - What about the Monorail?

A - The Las Vegas Monorail opened July 2004. You can avoid the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas Boulevard traffic by gliding from one end of the Strip (Sahara Hotel) to the other (MGM Grand) in as little as 14 minutes. The monorail connects eight resorts and nine convention facilities, including the Las Vegas Convention Center. A Single ride ticket is $5 but you can buy packets or an Unlimited one-day Pass for $9.