I didn't like the MGM (last visit nov-97): the pool and fitness area was closed for renovation (they did give me a credit of $30/night, because when I made reservation I expressevly asked for their fitness area to be ready: I must keep in shape for the PiP-tennis-event with Matt, even not knowing about it at that time ...).

the location/connection is the best (bridge to New York) - the metro to Bally's, the Starlight-express (I don't want to see it for the third time), the comic-guy at the smaller theatre were ok (I don't remember his name: young, yellow-red-hair, very-fast-talking, one-man-show, on the rise than, his first big-show, now - I think - already a Star in the US - very funny).

my favorite (comfort, personal treatment): the Golden Nugget, but that's downtown, off the Strip. For a firwst time visitor a location on the Strip is probably a must.