Las Vegas Casinos

Attention, gambling virgins: If you do not know how to play the game, don't be ashamed, everybody remembers that awkward first-time feeling. If the casino offers lessons, do yourself a favor and take them. If lessons aren't available, spend a little money on the crib card that supplies the basics. Ask questions to the dealers, which are the only true professionals at the table, when all else fails. The dealers will be happy to help. Just watch out for those showy neighbors who seem more than helpful.

Free drinks and cigars: Passing time at the tables or machines you can order free drinks and up to you, ask for a free cigar. Several hotels have been known to keep some of those trendy little incendiary devices on hand for just such an occasion. For better service we recommend that you tip the cocktail waitress.

Table minimums: If you feel 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 be so expensive. Do not forget to order up a shrimp cocktail, just try not to spill cocktail sauce on the tables.

Player's clubs: You can apply for the frequent gambler card at your favorite hotels, but you have to stand in line, get the form and sign up for. Then you can use the card to accumulate points, probably gambling anyway, and perhaps receive something free. You will be on the mailing list for a lot of hotels and perhaps they might pick you for a special room rate or send you tickets to a free show.