Right now I'm getting great prices on New York, New York and Monte Carlo-same price for each. We are in our early 30s, no kids, first time to Vegas and want to be in the middle of the action. Any suggestions?

Neither would be particularly "middle of the action" but I'd much prefer Monte Carlo. I think it's more tasteful, better laid out, and less fanny-packy. Also depends on what your gambling tendencies are...

I've stayed at both several times and they each have their pluses. That said, if you want to be in the middle of it, go for NYNY. I am a big fan of this area of the strip, it's a good choice, especially for a first timer.

The room will be a bit smaller than the Monte Carlo but it shouldn't really matter much. The NYNY casino is much busier and the selection of restaurants is greater. Do go to the piano bar if it is still in operation (I was last there a year ago and things change quick). Coyote Ugly was disappointing to me at NYNY and I would not go back there. I do recommend that you go to the Monte and check out the brew pub however. Easy walk.

Haven't stayed in either, but as far as placement on the Strip, I offer a differing opinion to placeu2....would stay at Monte Carlo because it's closer to some of the "free" shows (the Bellagio fountains, the Mirage volcano, the new Treasure Island pirate show) and some of the nicer restaurants (basically anything at the Bellagio). Also closer to the Venetian which is another hotel you'll want to go visit.

All that being said, the Monte Carlo and NY-NY are basically next to each other (even though it's a little bit of a walk), so even if you stayed at the latter, it's not like you wouldn't be able to see everything I mentioned above.

Thanks-I'm going with monte carlo-I just found it even cheaper on lasvegas.com. Sounds like you can't go wrong with either though.