First Time Las Vegas

The fabled 20-dollar trick — slyly slipping a $20 bill to the check-in clerk while nonchalantly asking "Any chance of an upgrade?" — isn't likely to work. Caesars Palace (links: H | O | P | T) remains a fairly high-dollar joint, so a mere 20 isn't likely to excite clerks jaded by the constant parade of luxury and affluence at their hotel.

Not to mention computer systems that keep things in order have made it more and more difficult for a clerk to give upgrades without a manager's approval. You'd likely have a better chance by being as nice and as charming as possible while checking in — use that English accent in your favor — then mention it's a special trip for you and your friends. That's when you casually mention, "If you can put us in the best rooms you can, I'd appreciate it."

That approach puts the ball in the clerk's court. Maybe you'll catch a break and they'll be running tight on classic rooms but have a few suites unbooked. In that case, and if the clerk has taken a liking to you, they may have more leeway to make a switch.

Realistically, I wouldn't count on it.

Still, there's nothing WRONG with trying to slip the clerk a few bills in hopes of scoring better accommodation. The worst that can happen is an socially awkward moment at the check-in desk. And, honestly, if you don't have several socially awkward moments during a Vegas trip, you're not doing it right.

No matter the rooms you end up with, you and your friends have picked an excellent place to say. Caesars Palace is an older hotel, but it's still in great shape and the mid-Strip location can't be beat. The club in Caesars, Pure, is one of the nightlife hot spots on the Strip. If you plan on going there, be prepared for it to be expensive, crowded and maybe even hard to get into. But once inside, the scenery is outstanding.

If you're staying a week you might want to consider catching at least one show while you're there. I was late jumping on the show bandwagon myself — they sounded cheesy to me, but a woman talked me into taking her to a Cirque du Soleil show several years ago and I had to admit I was very impressed. I've liked them ever since.

Right now "O" and "Zumanity" would be highest on my list of recommendations.

You'll also be right across the street from a little place called Casino Royale. It's probably the most un-Strip-like casino on the Strip. By that I mean it's not giant and it's not expensive. If you and your friends need a place to do some budget gambling, head to this place. You can usually find dirt-cheap craps and fairly cheap blackjack and roulette.

The pool area at Caesars has been undergoing renovations, so I don't know if it'll be open when you visit. If it is, take some time to hang out there. It's long been one of the best in Vegas and the changes are supposed to make it even swankier. Plus there's a topless area. That's always a bonus in my book.