Question: We're heading to Vegas in August and we all know how hot it gets during that time of year. Any advice on how to stay cool?

Eleanor in Baton Rouge, La.

Answer: Yes, it does get ridiculously hot, with average daytime high temperatures in July and August well over 100 degrees. A lot of people say, "But it's a dry heat!" I always respond, "So is an oven, and I don't want to spend a lot of time in one of those, either."

Of course, the simplest way to beat the heat is to not go outside, but since that will kind of limit your Vegas experience there are other ways to handle it.

First, you should arrange your sightseeing agenda in such a way that will allow you to spend the least amount of time outdoors. For instance, schedule a trip to the Forum Shoppes at Caesars Palace, the white tigers at the Mirage, and the Grand Canal Shops at the Venetian together since those hotels are very close to one another. Don't put a bunch of stuff on your list that will require you to run from one end of the Strip to the other.

Second, schedule outdoor activities or attractions for the evening hours whenever possible. The fountains at Bellagio and even the Eiffel Tower at Paris require you to be outside at least part of the time, but if you go at night it will be cooler -- not only from a temperature standpoint but from an experience standpoint, as well, since the lights add to the effect.

Third, take advantage of the free indoor transportation whenever you can. The Las Vegas Monorail will possibly be open by August, and that will help you get around to other areas without baking too much. There's also a monorail between Mandalay Bay and Excalibur and a tram between Mirage and Treasure Island, plus indoor, air-conditioned walkways between Mandalay Bay and Luxor, Luxor and Excalibur, and Bally's and Paris.

Last, take a lot of sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water if you're planning a Strip hike. Distances can be very deceiving out there, and what seems like a short walk can turn into a trek, especially when it's 110 degrees.

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