Las Vegas: Local Tips

Big spender Set a spending limit before you go – it’s all too easy to overspend amongst the glitz and glamour of the Strip.

The fastest route When you arrive in Vegas, tell your taxi driver to take Paradise Road into the city. Otherwise they will take the Airport Tunnel which will cost you about $10 more.

Free drinks Avoid the bar – most casinos serve complimentary alcoholic beverages to guests while they’re on the floor.

Take the Monorail Due to heavy traffic on the strip, taxis are almost universally inefficient and expensive in Vegas. Save time and money by riding the monorail instead (it’s safe, it stops at seven strip hotels, and runs from 7am-2am Monday through Thursday and 7am-3am Friday through Sunday). www.lvmonorail.com

Frequent player’s cards All casinos have complimentary player's cards that track your wins and losses. Pick one up to increase your chances of receiving perks like free meals and rooms.

Be a lounge rat Lost all your cash at the blackjack table but still itching to see a show? Head to the lounge – most casinos host on-going musical acts there free of charge.