> I'm rapidly approaching the end of my mid-60's
I'm not that far behind ya, although I'm in denial.
> The official schedule is like the Pirate's Code, you know, a rule of
> thumb or suggestions and a lot of activity never shows up there as
> individuals and small groups freestyle through the week.
We're different from the other major TG events in that you can pick and choose what you want to do and what you don't want to do. One big advantage with our model is that you don't pay for what you don't want to do (or don't want to eat).
> Since it's usually my bedtime when the crowd with more stamina is just
> getting started I'm up earlier than they are and end up exploring or
> joining in group activities during the day and early evening.
I tend to be just the opposite. I usually don't get going until around noon and I very much prefer the evening activities.
I do, however, try to stumble down to the morning coffee session once per year, to support it, but for 2017 it just did not happen.
> I'll consider the Flamingo if that's where a lot of attendees stay,
We anticipate that, as it's been the past several years, the Flamingo will draw the largest contingent of DLVers of any hotel in the area.
> but I've gotta say I'm not too crazy about the $35 daily resort fee.
Even when nuisance fees are factored in, places like the Flamingo are still lower-priced than equal-scale hotels in most other destination markets.
I spoke to people who stayed at Red Rock and Aliante for DLV last year, and they did feel like they were too far removed from the DLV action. They chose these places because they got casino rates. It's also my observation that one couple who stayed at Sams Town was "out of the loop" as well, due to the travel time and logistics.
If you will not be driving a vehicle, I do strongly suggest that you stay either at one of the three suggested hotels in the center Strip area, or another of your choosing in that general area. Local travel expense can very easily negate the savings of a less centrally-located hotel. If you will be driving and plan on consuming adult beverages I suggest the same.
Lately I've been finding that I actually enjoy DLV (and Pinkfest) better if I do not have a vehicle. The savings on the rental car cost easily pays for the Monorail pass and a couple of taxi rides per day if needed.