Are you thinking of making a run to Las Vegas? Have you been there before? Do you have any idea of the location of things--how the strip is laid out, for instance? Or, are you like many people--heading to Vegas for the first time and just jumping to get in on any Las Vegas hotel deals?

Well, if you're a first time Vegas visitor, not all Las Vegas hotel deals are created equal--not by a long shot. In fact, there are almost as many Las Vegas hotel deals as there are hotels in Vegas. And, the city that never sleeps truly has a ton of hotels!

But, what are you to do if you're a first time visitor? I'd suggest that you get online and check out some Vegas blogs, forums, or some bulletin boards not sponsored by Vegas hotels or casinos. Get the real low down on the hotel accommodations from real Vegas users.

You'll quickly learn which Las Vegas hotel deals to avoid, and which Las Vegas hotel deals to embrace. (I've been to Vegas countless times, and I know which areas and which hotels to avoid, but you'll need to research to suit your specific tastes.)

So, when and if you decide that you're ready to pursue your hunt for that perfect "Las Vegas hotel deals" package, remember that they are not all created equal, and the only way you can equalize the odds in your favor is if you're willing to do some smart research.