This is the slow time of year for tourism is Vegas, a lull between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

It is the time for bargain shopping. Anthony Curtis, in addition to his expertise in gambling, is also one of the great fiends on finding Vegas bargains. Curtis wrote a story for the Dallas Morning News on the current best bargains in Vegas.

Curtis loves finding the cheapest of everything and does a fantastic job. But even if I could stay at the El Cortez for under $20 a night, as Curtis discovers I can, I don't want to be at such an old downtown property that is also far from the Strip. Price isn't everything, especially on vacation.

So, balancing quality and location with cost, I did my own search, and the best bargain I found is being offered by MGM through Dec. 20, though it allows booking on dates all the way through March. This link allows you to buy two nights for $70 a night, with your third night free. I think $140 for three nights at the MGM, a well-heeled though massive resort, is a very good deal for one of the nicer properties on the Strip.

Also, tossed in with the rate are some discount coupons to see the shows on the property, including Cirque's "Ka." The only catch I could find in the deal: The dates when this special rate is available make it impossible to stay any consecutive weekend nights. But individual Friday and Saturday nights are available. I may take this vacation myself.