I don't know what the general consensus is, but I found that setting up airfare separately and making reservations right from the hotel's webpage seems to be a cheaper way to go, especially if you're staying longer than a couple nights. Have mostly stayed at Luxor (recommend it highly); have also stayed at Tropicana (not bad and a little cheaper), and San Remo (very cheap--was only glad I was there one night). I'm spoiled.