Ok so as a local I agree the Strat is not in the best area of town. So yes be safe. There is a monorail stop at the Sahara that runs all the way to the MGM with plenty of stops in between. Inside the start is a little place called Roxy’s pretty good food and fun entertainment..stay away from the Naga (asian restaurant) horrible service I walked out before I even got served. Shows can vary in price a few reasonable priced shows are Little Legends & Fashionistas at Krave (next to Planet Hollywood), The Mentalist at Hooters, Mac King at Harrah’s and Tim Gabrielson at House of Blues in Mandalay Bay. If you want pricier shows Danny Gans at the Mirage and any Cirque Show. I have not personally been but have heard nothing but great things about the Seafood Buffet @ the Rio…a little pricey but well worth it. Cheesecake factory in the Forum shops at Caesar’s, MESA grill in Caesar’s Palace. Also there are tons of free things to do in Vegas. Grab any of the free Vegas mags in the hotel for these place and great coupons as well. Oh and if you want a great burger there is Fatburger…it’s next to the CVS on the strip…between Planet Hollywood and MGM.