Few are immune to the glamorous appeal of a night at the casino, and while many establishments have evolved somewhat since the extreme opulence of their heyday, it’s still possible to find gambling establishments that offer a luxurious experience in every possible way.
From the glittering lights of Las Vegas to the sophisticated gaming halls of Monte Carlo, favourite games like blackjack, roulette and poker continue to dominate, but over recent years offerings have been updated to include an array of more modern games and slots, too.
If you’re new to this extravagant world, then there are a few things worth knowing about casinos before you dip your toe in to ensure that you get the most out of them. So behold, the ultimate guide to casinos by the experts at betpanda.io – covering everything from their rich history to the most iconic games and the all-important topic of dress codes.
A brief history
The concept of gambling dates back many thousands of years, with some of the first forms of betting known to have been developed in ancient civilisations like Greece, Egypt and China. But it was in Italy that the casino was first given its name, which in actual fact, refers to a small country house or villa used for social gatherings. Although the casinos of today are generally far larger and more extravagant, the name has remained the same, and since the 17th century, venues like these have been hosting gatherings where games of chance were features, leading to the eventual birth of the modern casino as we know it today.
Il Ridotto in Venice was the first official casino, and opened its doors in 1638 to much excitement. As the first government-run gambling house, it heralded the beginning of legal gambling in Italy, which initially took place only during the city’s annual carnival.
Fast forward to 1863, and the opulent Casino de Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco was also open and operating, attracting the rich and famous from across the globe and becoming instantly synonymous with wealth and sophistication. It happened at a time when a number of other gambling establishments were also being dreamt up across Europe, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that it reached North America.
During the Gold Rush in the 19th century, the first US gambling halls began to appear, and whilst the nation might have been one of the later adopters, it made up for lost time pretty quickly. Today, the Nevada city of Las Vegas is home to a plethora of lavish, sprawling casino resorts that attract high-rollers from every corner of the world, cementing its position as the undisputed gambling capital of the world.
Having said that, Asia, much of which had previously resisted embracing the legalisation of gambling, is now also beginning to turn things on its head and Macau, a special administrative region of China, is leading the charge. In recent years, a raft of big-name casino brands that you might know from Vegas have opened casinos in Macau, and it has already begun to eclipse Sin City in overall gambling revenue.
Iconic casino games
Although casinos have evolved to quite an extent over the years, one thing that has always remained a constant is the presence of its most iconic and best-loved games. Offering edge-of-your-seat adrenaline and fast-paced thrills for those who thrive off them and slower-paced strategic play for those who don’t, there’s something to suit all types of player.
Poker is arguably one of the most famous, having featured in Hollywood blockbusters like Casino Royale and Ocean’s Eleven, and is popular amongst players who love to use psychology and strategy to get ahead. These days there are various varieties, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha and Seven Card Stud, with each offering a unique twist on the traditional version. Generally, the goal is to create the best possible hand using a combination of dealt cards and community cards, but it’s about much more than that; bluffing and reading your opponents are key elements of the game and for many, what make it so exciting.
Another of the best-loved and most enduring casino games is roulette. There’s nothing like the thrill of gathering around the wheel and cheering one another on as the wheel is spun, and the sense of camaraderie this game often leads to is unlike any other. Very much a game of chance, it’s based around a simple concept where players bet on the number and colour (red or black) they think the ball will land on, and the suspense as the wheel gradually slows down is unmatched.
Blackjack – where players attempt to beat the dealer by getting the total of their hand of cards as close to 21 as possible – and slots are also hugely popular and attract all kinds of players, as do baccarat, craps and many more.
Dress code
Casinos vary widely in terms of dress codes, but upscale establishments such as those of Monaco and some of the more refined options in Vegas and Macau, are still a little more strict than others. At these, you’re expected to wear semi-formal attire, which often translates as suits for men and cocktail dresses for women, with no trainers or flip flops allowed.
Resort casinos tend to be more laid-back, with smart casual the general dress code – but sports attire should still be avoided and a polished look is generally encouraged. Women might opt for a pair of tailored trousers and a smart top or an understated dress, while men may don a shirt with chinos, although there is room for experimentation as long as you avoid the no-nos.
If you’re the kind of player who likes to be spontaneous then a casual casino will generally welcome you in even in jeans and a t-shirt, so if you’re out and about when the mood suddenly strikes then these are the best bet – but do check dress code policies in advance to avoid disappointment.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
