Whether you’re in the mood to spin the slots, test your poker face or throw dice, a casino is the best place to satisfy your gambling itch. And the most extravagant casinos are equipped with plenty of other perks, like gourmet food and top-notch hotels and spas.
The word “casino” comes from the Italian, meaning “little house.” And the world’s oldest casino, a grand palazzo on Venice’s Grand Canal, still draws royalty and aristocracy from across Europe. But the more modern offerings in this list range from a two-tiered gaming facility in Macau to a casino that doubles as an arts center and sports arena in the heart of Las Vegas.
As a rule, the most popular casino games are card games, but each region has its own variations. Baccarat, for example, is the most common game in Europe. But in China, it’s chun-bao, and in Australia, it’s two-up. Other classics include fan-tan, sic bo and pai-gow.
Gambling is not a profitable way to make money, but it can be an exciting pastime. The key is to decide before you go how much you can afford to lose and stick to it. It’s also important to create boundaries. And remember that you can’t change your luck, but you can control your bankroll. So before you head to the casino, figure out how much you can comfortably lose, then leave your wallet and credit card at home. You’ll thank yourself later.