jay,

been to vegas about 5 times in the last 3 years. the first time we relied on the busses. we usually stay at the sahara since it's neutral. but after that first trip, in which we spent what seemed like most of our time waiting for busses we have rented a car ever since. (we have driven from our home in houston 3 times and love the desert drive)we have never had a problem with traffic, except when we play tourist and cruise LV Blvd. at night for the neon and people watching. just do it one night, it's worth it, the best show in town and all it cost is patience. when you need to get where you're going just use paradise blvd. and parking is never a problem. the casinos don't charge and there is always plenty of space. we go to the strip casinos as well as downtown. get you a simple map of the city before you leave, it's really not difficult to get around. another plus is the freeways are very good. if you want to try the casinos near hoover dam or any of the outlying areas it's only about a 15-20 min drive. when you get tired of the buffets, you can check out some of the restaurants that cater to the locals. I think you will appreciate the city so much more when you rent a car. you won't feel so limited. driving into vegas in the evening is a beautiful sight. also if you have enough time red rock canyon(think thats the name) is just west of the city. for a day trip you can drive north to death valley.

hope that helps. rent a car, you won't regret it.

mike