Though there’s certainly a glut of fancy new resorts in Las Vegas, I’m quite fond of the “classic” Vegas elements that still remain. If you’re itching for a trip to Sin City, consider a stay at the Flamingo, which has anchored the Strip since 1946. Yes, Bugsy Siegel’s Flamingo is a true old-timer, and it does have older rooms with outdated decor. However, several floors of the resort have been completely re-done in a hip, 60s/mod-inspired fashion. In these accommodations, dubbed “GO” rooms, you’ll find a cool white, pink and brown color scheme, flat screen TVs, automated drapes, an extra TV screen embedded in the bathroom mirror, toiletries by Gilchrist & Soames, and a host of other upscale amenities (starting at $80/night).

What I love about staying at the Flamingo is its ideal central-Strip location. It’s in the middle of all the action, and when you’re ready to hit the sack after a long night, you don’t have to navigate through a lengthy casino/moving walkway maze–the hotel entrance is right off the Las Vegas Blvd. sidewalk and elevators are just steps away. Also, for an older hotel, the Flamingo has a pretty large pool area, so you won’t be deprived when it comes to poolside lounging. And finally, the icing on the cake for me is that the Flamingo (along with all other Harrah’s properties) doesn’t charge a daily resort fee. Many other Vegas hotels have implemented this practice as a way to squeeze extra dollars out of tourists, and I detest it!

Keep in mind: The Flamingo is an older property, so dining and entertainment options are limited in comparison to newer resorts. However, plenty of restaurants and nightlife are just a short walk away.

Bonus tip(s): If you want to check out a show and are weary of the ubiquitous Cirque du Soleil productions, I highly recommend “Jubilee” at Bally’s. It’s basically the last of the classic Vegas showgirl extravaganzas, and still a dazzling sight to behold. From the over-the-top Bob Mackie-designed costumes to the crazy set pieces (they reenact the sinking of the Titanic!), it’s definitely worth at least one viewing.