Other than a couple of times at a kitchen table or college dorm room I haven’t really played live poker. I have always had the urge to play while in Las Vegas. If I am able to get ahead while playing my regular games(BJ, Let it Ride, Slots, Video Poker some Craps), on my next trip to Las Vegas, I would really like to try my hand at it. I am afraid though of the cost and competition of a guppy like myself in an ocean of sharks. Without getting into the intricacies of strategy etc. I can get that from books. I was wondering if someone out there could contribute a primer of how it works in the Vegas poker rooms. Specifically,

What does one do to get a seat at a table?

How much of a bankroll should one have (assuming low limit)?

Assuming you don’t get cleaned and gutted right off how long do you have to stay? Can you leave any time you want? Even if you are winning.

Are the regulars tolerant of beginners or does the house try, at all, to match players by experience?

What games are best for a beginner and what games are played?

And finally, back on topic, do all poker rooms use special chips and how do they feel if a player pockets a few without cashing them in? I saw a cool $10 Poker chip from Bellagio and it has prompted me to consider adding some Poker chips to my collection. It might be cheaper in the long run to buy the chips on eBay but that wouldn’t be as much fun. Or would it? Thank you for your help.