Been to the Monte Carlo a few times and found a great deal on Orbitz.com. Overall the hotel is still clean and nice, and the rooms are really decent. All the services here are up to par - housekeeping is friendly and concierge people are also quite friendly.
One complaint was the air ventilation in the room was pretty bad..it was busting out cold air even though our temperature was set to 70degrees. Pretty annoying.
I have to admit though, the blackjack dealers here are pretty awesome. Look out for Mariola or Carole Ann, and mention that you heard about them via Yelp =D They usually work the 8-4am shift and at the $5 or $10 tables. They are super friendly and hilarious, and will leave you entertained for hours into the wee morning.
Overall, I wouldn't mind staying here again, especially for the price, but I do think there are many nicer options these days...this is simply a great alternative if you're looking for a decent place on a budget. It also has the convenient brand new tram that operates to City Center & Bellagio! It runs daily until 4AM and stops only for 2 hours..between 4AM-6AM
Happy Vegas-ing!
PS: We got upgraded to strip view for FREE just by being nice...no $20 trick.