The allure of a night at the casino is something that the world’s high-rollers simply can’t resist, but these days, they are no longer reserved only for big spenders and seasoned pros, and today, anyone who fancies a flutter can – provided they meet certain criteria – enter the world’s finest establishments and participate in a game of roulette, blackjack and other casino favourites.
If you’re a relative newcomer to the casino scene, then getting to grips with the etiquette can feel like something of a minefield, and failing to keep up to speed with the expectations of players and other guests could potentially land you in an embarrassing situation. Thankfully, the experts at CasinoTestingClub, a digital platfom that reviews the very best online casinos in New Zealand, are here to demystify the subject and share all of the unwritten rules you should know to guarantee an enjoyable and cringe-free experience.
Dress code and appearance
Once upon a time, casino-goers were expected to adhere to a strict dress code, which is why you’ll often see players dressed in black tie or glamorous cocktail dresses around the roulette wheel or poker table in old school films. These days, the requirements have been relaxed somewhat, but there is still an expectation to dress appropriately – which means a smart, clean and tidy appearance and a big no to items like flip flops, ripped jeans and trainers. In some of the world’s more upscale casinos, formal or semi-formal attire is still expected in certain areas, such as the exclusive private gaming rooms reserved for high-rolling players – so be sure to check the dress code of the specific casino you’ll be visiting before you go.
Respecting other players
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of a game whilst at the casino, but respecting the boundaries of other players and playing by the rules is essential and failing to do so will not be tolerated by high-end establishments. Respecting personal space is particularly important, so be sure to give them plenty of room while they are playing and avoid crowding around them or looking over their shoulder. Not only can this be distracting, but it’s also rather rude – so if in doubt, take a step back and give them the space they need to make their next move. On that note, waiting your turn is also crucial, so avoid jumping the gun or trying to get in on a game before you are invited. Doing so won’t win you any fans, and in the worst case scenario, you could even be asked to leave.
Tipping and gratuities
Tipping is customary in casinos, so be sure to show appreciation for your croupier or the waiting staff for their excellent service by leaving them as generous a gratuity as you can afford. When playing with large sums of money, failing to tip doesn’t look good, and this is even more true when playing in the casinos of Las Vegas and elsewhere in the USA. In some nations, America included, tipping is a part of the culture, so if you’re winning big at the poker table or hit the jackpot on the slots, then it’s simply good manners to share your fortune around, as well as respecting local customs. Of course, the amount you tip will largely be down to your satisfaction with the level of service provided, and may vary according to your experience – but if you are particularly pleased with a staff member’s attentiveness then they will almost certainly be grateful to be left a little extra.
Rules of the game
A hands-off approach is advisable when handling chips and cards. Although you will need to touch or move them at some point, avoid doing so excessively, and refrain from touching other player’s chips or cards too, as this is considered to be very impolite. When sitting or standing at a table to play a game, be sure that you know the rules to avoid disrupting the game. Ignorance of the rules can slow down play and irritate other players, so ensure that you have at least a basic level of understanding first – or wait and watch until you do.
Being gracious
Being gracious in the face of defeat isn’t always easy, particularly when large sums of money are at stake – but it’s important to maintain a polite, friendly and refined demeanour when playing, whatever the outcome of a game happens to be. Avoid venting your frustration on the dealer or on other players, and accept that losing is often part of the experience. If you do happen to win, it’s still just as important to be gracious and not rub your success in the face of others, as you’ll almost certainly have been in their shoes at some point.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
