The Palms is the hotel for the MTV crowd. Owned by the Maloof brothers (the same youthful playboys who own the Sacramento Kings and count Britney Spears among their personal friends), the Palms hosted the Las Vegas installment of The Real World and it seems the participants and their friends didn’t leave when the season ended. Perhaps they stayed around to take advantage of Las Vegas’ only in-casino tattoo parlor. Matt Damon and Ben Affleck are regularly seen wandering through Ghost Bar on the 55th floor or Skins, the late night poolside club featuring “Skinny Dip Tuesdays.” The Palms features two pools, one of which is small and better suited for poolside lounging, while the other features mermaids who appear to swim at night.

In keeping with the Maloof brothers’ larger-than-life style, nothing at the Palms is understated. Ostensibly, the theme is “Miami chic,” but really it’s “home of the beautiful people” – just ask Tyra Banks. Rooms are sophisticated, and minimally elegant with luxurious off-white bedding, rich cherry wood showcased in a ceiling-high headboard, and landscape artwork that’s easy on the eyes. The Palms offers serious gaming on the main floor, which attracts an older crowd during the daytime. The young and the restless are still asleep, gearing up for another night at Rain, one of Vegas’ premiere dance clubs. Fortify yourself for a night of dancing by heading for the 56th floor and Alizé. Chef Andre Rochat’s restaurant has splendid views, courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling picture windows. The menu changes frequently, but it’s always filled with creative starters such as a tuna napoleon with citrus-coriander vinaigrette and couscous. A standout entree is the Veal Four Ways: Four different preparations of veal, each garnished with fresh accompaniments such as apple marmalade and truffle aioli.