The Monte Carlo is a lower midrange hotel found in the middle of the Strip. Although not on the same level as the Venetian or Mandalay Bay, you can't beat the price. We stayed there for about $50 a night during Spring Break. It is conveniently situated with a Deuce bus stop right in front. It is true, the rooms need some updating. The furniture and walls are scuffed, they still use bedspreads instead of duvets, and the curtains and bedskirts have seen better days, but the rooms are clean enough. Be prepared, they have a wardrobe instead of closet which I suppose was to lend the room some Old World charm. Our room offered a great view of the roller coaster at New York New York.
Another reason to stay here as opposed to some of the more trendy hotels is the lack of waiting for elevators or taxis. And finally, there is a food court featuring McDonald's, Starbucks, and Haagen Dazs, right downstairs so you don't have to pay an arm and a leg for something to snack on.