Tahiti Village

The decor here walks a fine line between tropical and cheesy. This property is themed to the max: In a way it is pretty and atmospheric, and in another way it's bit like a downgraded version of Disney's Polynesian. The lobby has bamboo floors, tropical greenery, Tahitian art, and a coconut scent. Yes, they waft the aroma of coconuts through the vents. The grounds, which are lush and colorful, are full of fragrant flowers. There are lots of children running around, but adults do have their own private pool and barbecue area, marked with island-themed signage.

The hotel is right at the I-15/I-215 interchange, on S. Las Vegas Boulevard. This property is on the Strip, technically, but it's two miles south of Mandalay Bay, which marks the end of the major tourist and casino part of the street. Shuttles are available to take you to the main action. There is really nothing to do outside of the hotel; a vacant lot borders it to the north. The airport is only a seven-minute drive away.

This is an all-suite property, with one- and two-bedroom options available. All the suites are decorated in the trademark tropical style, though colors are earthy and the tropical accents aren't over-the-top -- they're pretty much limited to the flowered bed throws, bamboo-style detailing around room numbers and mirrors, and the artwork. The suites are large (starting at 580 square feet, but some are over 1,500), with kitchenettes or kitchens equipped with stainless steel appliances. Living rooms have ample seating and ceiling fans, though the latter is more for effect: all suites are air-conditioned. Washers and dryers are right there in the rooms, a real convenience for families with kids. Rooms aren't luxurious, but clean and airy.

This property has a few features other Vegas time-share options don't: namely, a big pool with sandy beach entry and a quarter-mile long lazy river, heated to 80 degrees. There's also a private adult-only hot tub with waterfall. The comprehensive spa is also a rarity for this category, and is located on the ninth floor, offering massages, facials, and waxing. The mirrored, fitness center is quite large, and there's a small business center with printing. The property puts on a weekly Luau (not surprising given the Polynesian theme), and runs children's play sessions in the activities room, where there is also a pool table. A number of stainless steal barbecues are available for grilling in a spacious patio area with ample seating.

A store on the main level sells drinks and snacks to go, along with a wide assortment of sundries, and the front desk will arrange full-on grocery delivery for you if you want to do serious cooking in your suite. The only dining option is a Denny's, the only place where this themed property slips out of character.