A veritable destination within a destination, the Rio, just west of the Las Vegas Strip, is an oasis of restaurants, shows, gaming and other great Vegas-style escapes.Every day is Carnivale, with the party atmosphere punctuated by a fantasy parade of overhead floats called the "Masquerade Show in the Sky." The free show (it's $12.95 to actually ride in one of the floats), filled with music and dance, travels around the ceiling of the Masquerade Village, a wing of the hotel that offers a big taste of the Rio experience. Much more action surrounds the heart of the 120,000-square-foot casino, starting with a smorgasbord of restaurants, including the All-American Bar & Grille, Buzio's Seafood, the Carnival World Buffet. Martorano's serves up Italian-American cuisine and the Wine Cellar and Tasting room showcases over 50,000 bottles of wine.For an after-dinner treat there are two performances of "Chippendales: The Show" a night. Enjoy the sharp comedy and edgy magic of Penn & Teller. At the Voodoo Steak & Lounge surround yourself in ambience and enjoy the view of the Strip from the 50th and 51st floors. The Rio has more than 2,500 suites that go up to 1,600 square feet, and they come with a full range of services and amenities. There are workout facilities, a full-service spa and Rio's Salon. Once you're feeling good about your body, take it out to the sandy beach around the tropical lagoon, which features waterfalls and four swimming pools.And if you want to play a round on a secluded championship golf course, the Rio has one that's a short limo ride away: the Rio Secco, which includes the Butch Harmon School of Golf.