LOVING LAS VEGAS

Tony Curtis has finally settled down in a city that's felt like home since the 1950s.

Tony Curtis' memoir An American Prince candidly talks about his wild ride as an actor starring in 130 films and television shows, including classics like The Defiant Ones (for which he was nominated for an Oscar), Spartacus and Some Like It Hot (ranked best comedy of all time by the American Film Institute). He first visited Las Vegas in 1951, driving his rather dilapidated Buick Roadmaster. Along for the ride were his agent and Marlon Brando. About 30 years later, Curtis found himself playing hotel owner Philip "Slick" Roth in the TV series "Vega$."

He always liked the friendliness of the town and, growing tired of "hanging out with disappointed actors" in Hollywood, he moved there in 2000 with his new wife Jill (they were married at the MGM Grand in 1998). It's safe to say that Curtis has hit the jackpot in Vegas. -Scott Smith

What's it like living in Las Vegas?
"I'm having the time of my life, honestly. I'm treated with respect, I'm surrounded with upbeat friends, and this is a really fun place to be. I love to go on long walks in the countryside near our home, and we have 130 horses at a farm nearby, which is the result of rescuing those that would otherwise be slaughtered. [We explain our] passion on our website, www.shilohhorserescue.com."

You've made quite a name for yourself as a painter, with one of your works now at New York's Museum of Modern Art. What local galleries do you like to visit?
"The Oh My Godard Galleries (www.viewtheart.com), in the Miracle Mile Shops on the Strip, has a number of surrealistic and impressionist painters who have a sense of humor. It's fun to drop in and see their latest work."

What hotels in town do you recommend?
"I love the Luxor (www.luxor.com; 877-386-4658) because it has spectacular views looking down from the 10th floor, and the lobby makes you feel like you're really in ancient Egypt. The staff doesn't have to be asked twice for anything and it's a good value. On the other hand, no one can top the Bellagio (www.bellagio.com; 800-608-6498) for beauty."

Where do you take friends for dinner?
"My two favorites are both at the Bellagio, which is owned by my friend, Kirk Kerkorian. We go for the steaks at Prime Steakhouse (866-259-7111). The other is Picasso (702-693-7223), which has some of the artist's masterpieces on the walls; it's an award-winning French restaurant. Both have superb service, and Jillie and I like to go to their bars for before-dinner drinks. All the bartenders are terrific conversationalists. Another good place is the Eiffel Tower Restaurant (www.eiffeltowerrestaurant.com; 702-948-6937) at Paris Las Vegas, which has an amazing view over the Strip at night."

What are your favorite shows?
"I'm a big fan of magician Lance Burton at the Monte Carlo (www.montecarlo.com; 888-529-4828). I don't know how he manages to produce those doves when his sleeves are rolled up! And he's a really nice guy. I also was really impressed by Kà at the MGM Grand (www.mgmgrand.com; 702-531-3826). The acrobats and the design of the show give a spectacular experience. I also laugh whenever I see Rita Rudner at Harrah's (www.harrahslasvegas.com; 702-349-6315). Most male comedians seem like they just like to insult people, and I don't care for that."

Where do you like to shop?
"Giorgio Armani (www.giorgioarmani.com) at the Bellagio has such an intense line that you can find something that really fits and expresses you. I don't care for the mass retailers. [For jewelry for Jill], Tesorini (702-693-7924) next to the Bellagio lobby always has gorgeous designs."

Do you gamble?
"On occasion I'll play blackjack or roulette, but never for much. When Columbia Pictures' chairman Harry Cohn invited me to go with him on a train in 1955, he gave me $10,000 to play with. At the end of the weekend, I returned all but $72. Losing money just isn't my idea of fun."