Tahoe was a nice place and even in the off-season with cold and rain, it was full of pretty places and pretty people. We were able to find a public access that had stadium seating made of stone right above the beach. Overlooking the lake, we were treated to quite a show featuring sailboats, sunset and seagulls. We were able to get our gear dried out--actually pitching the tent in the hotel parking lot! Oh, the KOA in Tahoe is $78 a night for a tent site! The hotel was $52. But we came in the snow and left in the sleet! I ran in to check out and by the time I got back there was accumulation on the car and ground. We outran the storm about 15 miles out on our way to Carson City. We went into the historic district there and visited the Nevada State Museum. It was an excellent value for the $8 admission. A mine in the basement, dinosaurs, wildlife, guns, minerals, quilts, you name it. From there we drove into Reno, "The biggest Little City in America". It reminded us of old Las Vegas. We were able to get our rooms for free at Harrah's so we stayed 2 nights. The had a nice fitness center which included a steam room and sauna. We used our new strategy and enjoyed a couple of nice meals there as well. The strategy is hit up the nice place, order water, split an appetizer, and each have a salad. Combined with the bread they usually bring, it's completely satisfying. Gourmet food at a Denny's price!