The word ‘Casino’ might conjure images of glitzy Las Vegas and flashing slot machines, but there are more casinos in the world than just those mega-resorts. Some are simply massive – sprawling complexes of entertainment that would be the envy of many a small town – while others offer a more intimate experience, where gambling is elevated to an art form and opulent furnishings and overflowing bars add to the decadence.
Casinos are usually associated with high stakes, with the biggest casinos offering opulent suites and spas alongside the roulette wheel and blackjack table. But it isn’t always the case that big money wins, and while jackpots can be enormous, it is possible to lose your shirt at any casino.
In fact, according to the American Gaming Association, in 2002, about 51 million people — a quarter of all Americans over 21 — visited casinos. That’s a lot of cash, and it means that casinos have to be well equipped to protect their customers, both from cheating and theft. As such, modern casinos are often fitted with security cameras, which are designed to keep a constant eye on patrons and staff.
The newest casinos have taken the concept even further, with some even featuring catwalks above the gaming floor, allowing surveillance personnel to look directly down on players through one-way glass. For the hard-core gambler, this is a real selling point as it allows them to place their bets without distraction or interference from other players or staff.
Other features that casinos are increasingly offering to attract gamblers include food courts, bars and even shopping centers. They have even started to offer live shows, as the Venetian and Rio have done, which can draw in visitors who might not be particularly interested in spending their time at the tables.
Some of the more exclusive casinos are designed for a more niche clientele, including those who like to rub shoulders with royalty or celebrities. The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, for instance, first became a playground for wealthy Europeans 150 years ago, with Marlene Dietrich declaring it the most beautiful casino in the world. The Monte Carlo, meanwhile, has been featured in numerous films, including Ocean’s Eleven.
In some cases, the most impressive casinos combine all of these elements to create a truly unique experience. For example, Galaxy Macau in Macau, China combines some of the world’s best hotel brands, such as the Ritz Carlton and Andaz, with a huge range of table games and slots. And then there’s the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which offers a range of sports betting, as well as 60 large plasma TV screens for those who want to watch the latest game. There’s also a restaurant, two bars and a children’s arcade gaming center to round things off.
