Casino Tips - February 7, 2020

Great Gambling Capitals of The World

Nothing says ‘attention grabber’ quite like the gaudy lights of Vegas’ many casinos, but Sin City is only one of several great gambling capitals around the world. A few cities have been players’ destinations of choice for decades if not centuries, and their establishments continue to attract crowds.

No two locations are alike. Whether due to the history of gambling in the area, the attitudes of residents, or local laws, each of the following gambling capitals puts a unique spin on the industry.

Macau, China

Gambling was legalised in Macau in the 1850s, when the region still was a Portuguese colony. Since its return to China in 1999, Macau has been one of two special administrative regions. This means its legal system, currency, and immigration policies are separate to those of the rest of the country.

The region’s casinos, which attract more money than those anywhere else, take extravagance to new heights. What often surprises visitors who are used to the popularity of the best online pokies games in western casinos is that table games, especially Baccarat, are where most of the action happens.

Las Vegas, USA

Considering Las Vegas was synonymous with gambling within a few years of the opening of the first casino on the Strip in 1931, the growth of its gaming industry was remarkable. The gambling boom saw the construction of not only more casinos, but hotels, resorts, amusement parks, and more.

After almost a century as the premier destination for gaming entertainment, a recession as well as a changing player demographic contributed to Sin City being overtaken by Macau.

Atlantic City, USA

Another of the world’s great gambling capitals located in the USA is Atlantic City, New Jersey. Gambling had been enjoyed in the state long before the 19th century, a change to the law in the 1840s banned it.

In 1976, casino gambling was legalised. Amusement games and sports betting were legalised a few years before that. In the decades that followed, the city continued to grow and expand with and around the gaming industry. Atlantic City’s shine has dulled in recent years, but as avid players know, its casinos are still worth a visit.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monaco, the tiny principality on the French Riviera, has a poverty level of 0%, and more than 30% of its citizens are millionaires. It is the world’s second-smallest sovereign state, and it is one of the most legendary of all gambling capitals.

The administrative region of Monte Carlo is where you will find the famous Monte Carlo Casino. The venue, which opened in the late 1800s, offers Roulette, Blackjack, Stud Poker, Trente et Quarante, Baccarat, Craps, Video Poker, and slots.

London, UK

London is not the first place that comes to mind when many players think of the world’s gambling capitals. The city’s casinos are certainly more understated than those in Vegas or Macau, but they certainly have enough to keep players going back for more.

However, London is also home to private casinos such as those at Crockfords Club and the Ritz. Those exclusive venues see serious money, such as £10,000 Poker buy-ins.