Las Vegas has set a new record for annual visits. Close to 39 million people traveled to the desert city in 2006, up slightly less than 1 percent over 2005. Though the average room rate rose $17 to $120, occupancy rates were also high: 94.6 percent on weekends and 87.6 percent on weekdays. (O'ahu's occupancy rate was 83.1 percent and New York City's was 82.8.) Interestingly, Las Vegas had a net loss of 580 rooms in 2006, because of the closings of the Stardust, Lady Luck, and other casinos; it was the first decrease in room inventory since 1992.

RECORD WIN: Reflecting the increase, casinos along the Strip raked in nearly $6.6 billion in gambling winnings in 2006, an increase of 10.9 percent. The total was 53 percent of the entire take of Nevada, which was $12.6 billion, an increase of 8.3 percent.

BIG BARRY: The Las Vegas Hilton is home to the largest hand-painted mural in town, with the unveiling of a 128-by- 56-foot image of headliner Barry Manilow on the property's main tower. Several such ads now populate the city.

'BEACHER'S' IS BACK: The racy comedy revue "Beacher's Madhouse" will return to the Hard Rock. Joining the troupe will be the recently dethroned (due to an Internet photo scandal) Miss Nevada, Katie Rees. A show a month begins March 31.

For information about Las Vegas shows, buffets, coupons and deals, see www.LasVegasAdvisor.com.