You did not mention the one feature that draws folks to Mandalay Bay which is the pool. So, I guess that is not a high priority to you. So, based on what you like, dislike, let me make another suggestion. Have a look at the Venetian. They have no rooms only suites. They are gorgeous, romantic and have large flat TV's in the sunken living room, bedroom and bath. There is a huge tub for two and separate shower. The bathroom and even the foyer have more marble than a quarry. If you want to pay a bit extra, the Strip view has floor to ceiling windows looking out over Treasure Island and the Mirage. Just press the button and the drapes open automatically.
This is one of the most romantic hotels in Vegas. From the canals with gondoliers singing Italian songs, to the opulent decor to Emeril Lagasse's Delmonico Steak House, and 16 other fine restaurants you will be pleased.
It also had a nice pool area and even (for a fee) a topless pool area.
The monorail stops next door to the Venetian at Harrah's. But another advantage to the Venetian is that you probably will not need it. You will already be where everyone wants to go, the center of the Strip.
In the evening this area is where everyone ends up. There is the Free Pirate show in front of Treasure Island and the erupting Volcano in front of the Mirage. Both of these hotels are right across the street so you can easily go there or just watch from your room. They are also connected by a free tram. There is no "Club" in the Venetian but there are in Treasure Island, Mirage and Caesar's just across the Strip.
The monorail costs $5 per trip, $12 for day pass, $28 for a 3 day pass. Prices per person. But I doubt you will need it. From the airport, take the shuttle service. Right outside the arrivals area of the airport are kiosks. The cost is between $6 & $8 per person and they drop you and your luggage right in front of your hotel entrance. You have the option of one way (you can call them for a return trip when you are leaving) or you can buy a round trip ticket in advance. I will cost $12 to $16 dollars for two. A taxi costs over $20 plus tax and tip. Be advised, the taxi meter runs even while sitting still and the traffic can be bad on the Strip sometimes. The taxi can get pretty expensive if you know what I mean. Regardless of the traffic, the shuttle price is fixed so there is no reason to take the long route.
The walk from Mandalay Bay to the center strip is somewhat mitigated by the presents of a free tram that runs from Mandalay Bay, to Luxor to Excalibur. From the Excalibur it is a moderate walk to the MGM which is served by the monorail. But, as I stated earlier, the Venetian is already there so you save all that time, expense and effort. You will have to include that in your value calculations. Remember, the enemy is not so much cost but time. The more time you spend in transit the less time you have left for fun. You will not believe the scale of these hotels. The MGM Grand, for instance is so big that you can spend 10 to 15 minutes just walking from the front desk to your room. Do that a few times a day and you see how it adds up.
Good luck!
Oh, yeah, I also included a link to promo codes for the Venetian and one for Kahunaville, a great party bar at Treasure Island. Kahunaville has no cover charge, casual dress code, a great crowd, DJ and Flair bartenders. Check it out. The link reviews it. It also reviews other places.
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