I've got family members coming to town this summer, so that means I have to go looking for decent 'low-arises' in the Strip vicinity.

They insist on low rise accomodations because they were here in Las Vegas when they had that disasterous fire at the MCM many years ago.

They witness that disaster and say, "Never again!"

My brother in law even ran up the fire stairwell in an attempt to get people out of there before the firemen arrived .

So I've been doing lots of research on the Strip vicinity low rise hotel rooms and my first stop was the Tropicana because I have always liked the location of those two/three story buildings out in the back by the pool in the park like setting.

And I was pleasantly surprised by all the work they've been putting into that old lady to make her nice and pleasing once again .

She has a way to go but she is definitely heading in the right direction.

ANd the entire pool/park complex in the back is being completely renovated and should be completed by the end of May 2010.

Then it seems that they will start redoing those "garden court" hotel rooms which will be most fitting for those individuals who hate high rise buildings for any reason what-so-ever.

The Trop looks like it will be ready if this economy ever manages to 'pick up' again. Give it a 'look-see' if you come to town this summer,

And for something completely different than the Trop, you might want to consider Motel 8 on Koval Lane if you want low-rise accomodations.

I looked at this motel because it neighbors Ellis Island and I always enjoy the meals there. It ain't fine dining, but it is Good and Cheap and they sometimes give you free money to lose in the casino.

And then there's Terrible's and Circus Circus and a good number of others which I'll discuss if there is any interest.

But don't expect me to say anything good about Circus Circus except that the Steak House is very good.

Even Slots O Fun next door looks like it is ready to close up shop in this present economy.

In fact, go south of the Encore and that whole area appears to need a bulldozer as long as it passes by those two new high rises on the west side of the Strip.

Even the Fountainblu appears to be an outlandish and monstrous eyesore and it ain't even finished yet.