As travel restrictions slowly begin to ease – albeit somewhat unpredictably – you could be forgiven for once again entertaining the idea of a luxury foreign getaway, staying in some of the world’s most opulent hotels and having your every need met, all in a spectacular location you’d be unlikely to forget in a hurry.
From lavish suites and mouth-watering fine cuisine to a vibrant entertainment scene, for most of us it has been far too long since we were last able to scratch that five-star travel itch, and it’s about time we had something to look forward to after a trying year. Casino fans, in particular, might be mourning the lengthy closures of high-end casino resorts across the globe – because, let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like the glitz and glamour of getting dressed up to the nines for a night at the roulette table after a long day of sight-seeing or simply luxuriating in decadent surroundings and being waited on hand and foot.
With more countries expected to be added to the UK’s green travel list over the coming weeks, and plenty on the amber list for those who have plenty of time to quarantine on return, 2021 is starting to look a lot brighter. Here, we take a look at some of the world’s most exotic casino and entertainment destinations for 2021 – the only thing left to decide is which to visit first.
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
No list of the world’s most exciting casino and entertainment destinations would be complete without the inclusion of Las Vegas. The bright lights of Sin City have long given it a reputation for being one of the most thrilling entertainment destinations in the world, and despite being slightly ostentatious, we can’t help but love it. Home to some of the most extravagant casino resorts you’ll find anywhere, each offering up a generous serving of flamboyant nightly entertainment and an outrageous party scene for those so inclined, Vegas is the theme hotel capital of the world.
Of course, if you prefer a little sophistication then you can certainly find some more refined resorts to make your base for the duration of your stay, and with some of the world’s biggest high-rollers regular players at some of Vegas’ best known casinos, prepare to play with the big dogs or simply stand back and watch the spectacle unfold. In Sin City, people play big to win big. Vegas also attracts a host of big-name A-listers, so expect to rub shoulders with the stars and catch some first class music shows in between sightseeing and sampling the varied (and very generously portioned!) local cuisine.
Morocco, Africa
When it comes to exotic destinations, Morocco is up there with the best of them, and is a melting pot of vibrant sights, sounds, flavours and smells. Located in the north west of Africa, it is now a well-known gambling centre that is gaining increasing popularity worldwide, with the nation’s most luxurious casinos and resorts spread across the three major cities of Marrakesh, Agadir, and Tangier. These resorts offer some of the most breath-taking views you’re ever likely to experience, with endless deserts stretching for miles around. It’s a far cry from the bright lights of Vegas, but that’s all part of its charm, and makes for a highly unique and utterly exotic-feeling experience.
This nation is best to visit if you’re a tourist looking for the ultimate cultural experience and want to go off the beaten track in a warm country filled with deserts, beaches, ancient cities, mountains, and more. Once you’re exhausted from making the most of Morocco’s great outdoors, head to the casino or entertainment theatres, venture out to the local shopping bazaars or relax in your hotel’s classy pool to cool off from the heat.
Macau, China
Formerly a Portuguese colony for over three centuries but now a special autonomous region of China, Macau has quite literally been giving Vegas a run for its money in recent years, and when it comes to gambling revenue, it has well and truly dethroned the original ruler. Though a small area compared to the whole of China, it’s the powerhouse of gambling, which has boomed with the Chinese economy. Despite being only eight square kilometres in area, its amazing heritage and whopping 35 grand casinos ensure that there is plenty to see and do packed into the smallest of spaces.
Its extravagant casinos and resorts aren’t just a hit with tourists, but the locals as well. Almost 15% of locals in Macau are involved with the gambling industry, which is why there are such a multitude of casinos in the region featuring unlimited slot machines to cater to growing demand. Not only that, but it also attracts some of the biggest high-rollers and has seen some of the most eye-wateringly large wins ever dished out in the world.
But this bustling destination isn’t just known for its luxury casinos and hotels; the area is also home to a host of golden beaches, interesting fusion cuisine, plenty of opportunities for adventure and numerous unique attractions you’ll want to get your camera out at.
Alice Springs, Australia
Alice Springs is the gateway to the Red Centre and Australia’s Outback. It’s actually one of the most isolated cities in the world, yet it still has some of the best casino and entertainment facilities if you want to combine your gambling with a spot of adventure.
When you’re not in the casino trying to win big, there are a variety of different activities to partake in, including riding in a hot air balloon or helicopter over the Kings Canyon or Uluru – one of the highlights not to be missed. You can also attend camel races, see Aboriginal Rock Art, and even visit the traditional Aboriginal community. Before or after the casino, a walk on the Larapinta Trail is the perfect way to reconnect with the Earth. Take note that this is a 10-day retreat, though, so you’ll need to plan in some extra time if you’re eager to include it in your itinerary.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
The breath-taking Iguazu Falls are listed as a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, and are also one of the natural wonders of the world, so if you’re looking for a show-stopping location in which to escape the bright lights of the city and go further off the beaten track, then this is a once-in-a-lifetime destination that should be on every luxury traveller’s bucket list.
The largest waterfalls in the world are located near the borders of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay, they are the best and easiest accessed from the former, which offers superior viewpoints and the finest photo opportunities. From here, you can walk various hiking trails or take on a jungle trek in the Iguazu National Park, where there are plenty more amazing views as well as the opportunity to spot jungle wildlife.
When you’re not basking in the beauty of the Iguazu Falls and their surroundings, there are plenty of entertainment options and casinos in the area, as well as some beautiful luxury resorts that offer the best of both worlds. Offering various VIP services and all the usual table games, including poker, blackjack, roulette, craps, amongst others, there are also plenty of slot machines for enthusiasts to lose themselves amongst for the evening.
Sweden, Europe
Sweden is considered an alternative casino destination, but nevertheless, it’s still one of the best. There are a few lavish casino resorts scattered across the nation, with the ‘Casino Cosmopol’ brand, which spans four different cities, popular amongst both seasoned gamblers and complete beginners. The Casino Cosmopol Stockholm offers the largest selection of games in the country, with more than 400 slot machines and 47 poker tables and table games. Casino Cosmopol Malmo offers even more than gambling, with regular live events, music, stand-up comedy acts, dance clubs, and a luxurious restaurant and bar serving up mouth-watering cuisine and decadent cocktails.
Although Sweden welcomes casino gamblers, the country has a very strict set of rules to adhere to. Because all casinos in Sweden require a license, security is tight, in order to protect clients and ensure their safety. Of course, if you’d rather kick back and relax in your luxury suite than get dressed up for a night out, then online casinos are an option, and can be logged onto anywhere, anytime during your trip. Casino Svenska is one of Sweden’s best online offerings, with plenty of gaming options and big prizes regularly up for grabs.
The bottom line
So, if you’re eager to explore somewhere exotic in 2021 without compromising on entertainment, then look no further – because with a plethora of lavish hotels and resorts, breath-taking sights to see and some of the best casinos and theatres in the world, these exotic entertainment and casino locations have got you covered.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
