Mobster Bugsy Siegel's desert dream, The Flamingo, has anchored the Strip since the dice started rolling in 1946. But now, the mobsters, glamour and original hotel are long gone, as are the male employees who wore tuxedoes. Only the name remains and a gadzillion partiers looking for authentic Las Vegas action at moderate prices. This casino and resort offers everything adventurous vacationers could want, including a Wildlife Habitat and a 15 acre Caribbean style water playground. The 77,000 square foot casino offers the quintessential Vegas experience: a variety of table games, 2,100 slots, and a large race and sports book. Entertainment at the Flamingo includes four feature shows, including Gladys Knight appearing in her own theater.

Guestrooms are appointed in contemporary décor, and feature dial up Internet access, cable TV, pay movies and safes.

Hungry gamblers and those who love them can dine on steak, ribs, roast chicken and bargain priced crab, lobster and prime rib in the hotel's hallmark Flamingo Room. Conrad's Steak House dishes up beef and seafood. The Paradise Garden Buffet includes a "seafood spectacular" station and chow for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Styled like a New York deli, Lindy's Coffee Shop serves meals and snacks around the clock and features lobster in soup, sandwich and gumbo.

When time arrives to relax in the sun, guests can retreat to the Flamingo's massive pool area the largest in Vegas. The landscaped area is inhabited by Chilean Flamingos, African penguins, and other animals. The four swimming pools are augmented with two whirlpools, bars and seasonal poolside restaurant.

Travelers wanting to experience and drink in the history of Sin City will find the Flamingo Hotel and Casino the perfect place. By the way, the name comes from the nickname of Bugsy's red haired, long legged gal, Virginia Hill.