After over 20 Vegas trips since 1992 (married there
), 6 cruises since 2004 and WDW 2x in the last 2 years..
It is a good question--how long since you have been there? The longer it has been, the better idea Vegas is.
You can spend as little or as much as you like on food. Check out restaurant.com...we had a terrific meal at MIX at Mandalay Bay (killer views & ambiance--and food). W/o drinks, only about $50 after the gift certificate. (NEVER pay full price...they are 70-80% off frequently...$4 for $50) But you can eat for much less.
I DO NOT recommend the buffet route...overprice for mediocre food. THAT BEING SAID...if you time it right you can get 4 meals in on that $39 buffet...my folks like it as they can get salads, fruit--eat pretty healthy. DH & I often split meals..too big of portions anyway. But scour internet for coupons or check out the AMerican Casino Guide...
We LOVE cruising and find it to be a tremendous value--better than Vegas!! We have only done 7 day cruises; I would have a hard time w/ only 4 nights! And we have never done Carnival...my uncle who has cruised Celebrity, RCI, NCL & Carnival, he was very disappointed w/ Carnival (this from a man who LOVES Casino Royale & Circus Circus in Vegas!!) I would STILL do Carnival if the price was right! We love Princess best, closely followed by RCI (tho like food a tad better), followed by
DCL--it is a great cruise but overpriced for the offerings.
One thing about Vegas is that you can find CHEAP rooms, often cheap air. There are free coupon books all over, plus you can make a small investment in the ACG (mentioned earlier) or look at the pricier Las VEgas Advisor book.
Hmmmm...short trip, Vegas always wins for me. If you have time for a week...cruise wins.
Let's face it, you will have a GOOD time no matter what!
Have a blast!!!!