Palms Place Hotel and Spa

One might expect the Palms Place to draw mostly families, because of its off the Strip location, lack of casino, and kitchenette-equipped suites. It does draw some -- as well as some business travelers -- but most of the guests are couples (particularly younger couples) who are looking to enjoy modern luxury at a lower cost. The hotel is quiet and smoke-free.The decor throughout is sleek and modern. The lobby is adorned with dark wood paneling, back-less metallic sectionals, and metallic accents. Simon restaurant and Rojo Lounge are similarly trendy; Simon has a green metallic bar, oversize globe light fixtures, and decorative rope used as wall separators, while Rojo Lounge has plenty of red accents and more metallic.

The hotel is located off the Strip, and not within walking distance. However, guests can get their gambling fix right next door at the Palms Hotel and Casino, a short walk through a connecting corridor. The property is next to a busy street in a business area, and there are fast food restaurants and shops within walking distance. It's a 20-minute drive from the airport and a 10-minute drive to the Strip. A free shuttle service to the Strip is available, but it ends around 9 p.m.

All of the rooms here are big suites (starting at 600 square feet) and the decor is stylish and streamlined: dark wood floors, plush white bedding, big mirrors above the beds enhancing the light and space, and a retro-chic seating area (gray sectional couches and cream chairs with mid-century modern inspiration). Every room has a kitchenette with at least a microwave, sink, fridge, and stovetop (bigger suites have full kitchens). The Serta Platinum pillow-top beds get high marks for comfort. The room types include Studio Suites, One-Bedroom Suites, and Two-Bedroom Suites; the two larger categories also have fireplaces and sofa beds. There are also five penthouses available.The plasma TVs are large (42 inches) and Wi-Fi is free. To avoid the (minimal) noise and get a spectacular view of the Strip, ask for a room above floor 20, facing east. Although each room has a balcony, they are locked and unavailable for use, which can be frustrating to some.

The sixth-floor pool is the hub of the resort, and many guests can be found lying on the cushioned loungers or having a drink at the poolside bar. It's chic, if not as huge as some Vegas pools, with an adjacent hot tub, cabanas for rent, mosaic tile columns, and an L shape that wraps around the building; the area can get a little windy at times. The full-service spa with 20 treatment rooms is posh and has a coed hammam. The health and fitness center is big, with wood floors, cardio machines with personal TVs, and strength-training machines; some windows have great views of the mountains beyond. Business travelers will find computers, fax machines, and printers in the business center. The restaurant, Simon (from renowned chef Kerry Simon) is pricey but gourmet, with items such as truffled mac and cheese, fresh sushi, and smoked chicken pizza. Rojo Lounge is a stylish spot for a drink or light fare.