A casino is a facility that accommodates and offers gambling services and activities. Casinos are most commonly built near or combined with restaurants, hotels, retail shopping, cruise ships, and other tourist attractions. There are casinos in many countries around the world, with an emphasis in the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, and more. However, casinos do not exist in most countries, and the governing bodies rarely allow any gambling to occur.
As you plan your next big adventure, consider visiting one of the world’s most exciting cities known for its casinos:
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Las Vegas is the gambling capital of the world and the most prominent casino city in the world. Founded in 1905, Las Vegas got its start serving miners during the mineral rush period. It transitioned to legal gambling in 1931 and has never looked back. With over 75 casinos, Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for gamblers worldwide. Widely known as Sin City, Las Vegas is more than its casinos, with endless entertainment, luxury hotels, and countless food options.
MACAU
Encompassing just over 12 sq km, Macau is a special administrative region of the Republic of China. Located across the Pearl River estuary from Hong Kong, Macau, commonly known as ‘the Las Vegas of Asia,’ is the biggest attraction for tourists in the region. The estimated 450,000 people who live in Macau, most of Chinese and Portuguese descent, are surrounded by old colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers, with the largest casino resort in the world, the Venetian Macau.
Singapore
Singapore is an island city-state located at the southern end of the Malay Peninsula. Singapore is a major tourist destination, casino gambling has been legalised in this country as far back as 2005, and Marina Bay Sands was constructed in 2010 and soon became one of the most iconic hotels in the world. This stunning resort and casino stand 57 stories tall and feature over 1,300 rooms, a 140,000-square-foot casino, and over 300 retail shops and restaurants.
London, England
The Las Vegas of the United Kingdom is none other than London. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and some of the world’s best restaurants, London has become one of the most popular casino destinations in the world. London is home to some of the most prestigious and elegant land-based casinos, with the majority located in upmarket areas like Mayfair and the West End.
Monte Carlo, Monaco
Basking in the Mediterranean climate and styled with beautiful French architecture, Monte Carlo is an iconic tax-free destination for gamblers in Europe. Monaco, located on the French Riviera, is known for its luxury and exclusivity and is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The Monte Carlo casino is one of the most iconic buildings in Monaco and was featured in multiple James Bond movies.
Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
Atlantic City is a popular tourist destination and the gambling capital of the East Coast. Located in the south of New Jersey, this city is known for its beaches, casinos, and boardwalks. It has attracted millions of tourists each year, with the gambling industry at its peak in the 1970s and 1980s.
Attending a casino for the first time can be overwhelming for newcomers. With so many games to choose from, rules to learn, and avoiding becoming overwhelmed by the crowd, smells, and sounds, it can make you lose your focus and miss out on the fun.
The following tips will help you feel prepared and ready to take on your next casino visit with confidence:
Rules and Tips for Casino Players
If you are looking to play a particular game but aren’t sure of the rules, study up beforehand. Don’t wait until you sit down at a table to learn how to play the game. Casino games have their own set of rules and strategies, and understanding them will help improve your overall experience.
Picking which games to play before entering the casino will give you an idea of what to look for. This also includes deciding how much money you are comfortable losing during your gaming session. Set a budget and stick to it. It’s easy to get carried away in the excitement of the casino atmosphere, so ensure you keep a cool head and stay within your limits.
Many first-time players make the mistake of missing out on valuable rewards by not signing up for a casino’s rewards program. Casinos want to incentivise and encourage you to spend more time (and money!) gambling at their establishments. Thus, they will often offer rewards programs that can earn you free hotel stays, food, drinks, and even cash back discounts.
Casinos usually offer a variety of games: poker, roulette, blackjack, and slot machines. If you’re not sure where to start, check to see if your casino offers free gaming lessons. A dealer or supervisor will teach you the rules and provide valuable tips.