Las Vegas, Nevada--Some say the crown jewel of Nevada is Las Vegas. Certainly the richest little city in the state, it's tourism success helps fund everything from not taxes for residents, to the water supply that seems endless in this dry desert location.

Whether summer or winter, one of the best times to get out and see Las Vegas is at night. It's all about the lights. From the water shows at the fountains of Bellagio  where dancing water sways and blows to the music, to the replica Eiffel Tower lit like a jewel, the billboards, buildings and streetscapes all are created to please the eyes.

It's amazing the folks from the Bible Belt regions of the US love Las Vegas, and they don't bat an eye at the sexy girls advertised on billboards in their ever-so-skimpy clothes. People from around the globe gather in this city of sin. They come for the musical shows, for the city lights, and for gambling, of course.

Daytime in Las Vegas centers around the swimming pools. To put it mildly, summers are hot! Even in the winter you can get some glorious, sunny swim pool weather in this arid desert location made to look like it has all the water in the world. Illusion is one of Las Vegas' best tricks, indeed.

The newest and best hotels in town feature high rise views of the property pools and features. If you get a view room at some hotels, you find the desert landscape is very dry looking and not necessarily so appealing. That's why the top hotels and resorts have learned to build eye candy that to look out  on and down to. at Bellagio, you will either look toward the dancing water fountain and city views, or you may look toward the swimming pool. 

The five star, five diamond Wynn Las Vegas overlooks the 18th hole at Wynn Golf Club, for instance. While you can package your stay at the Wynn with concert shows featuring the likes of Beyonce, or buy the golf package deluxe, spa treatment, etc., there are basic (very nice rooms available seasonally for under $200/night (subject to change).

The Strip is hip, and where it's at. Of course, you may get the feeling you stepped into a street scene from the midwest  as you wander with tourists who are all out gazing and gawking at the excesses of this make-believe place where you pretend you have money, if just for a day or two. 

While it's a lot more fun to stay at luxury resorts (go ahead and splurge!), you'll find an incredible range in prices of hotel rooms and amenities. MGM Grand, Bellagio, Monte Carlo, Mandalay Bay, Tropicana, Hard Rock, Flamingo, and Travelodge, Super 8, and many inexpensive accommodations offer cheaper outings.

And finally, just in case you don't know... you weekdays to save, and check for conventions that may fill the area. If you can book around the popular times, you'll get a lot more hotel room for your money. There's more about Las Vegas if you want to continue reading!