From high-rollers to complete amateurs, few can resist the electrifying atmosphere of a luxury casino, and with today’s most sought-after establishments serving up a dazzling array of table games and slots alongside world-class dining options and lavish accommodation inside sprawling five-star resorts, making a weekend or an entire holiday of it is becoming more popular than ever.
While these days you can find casinos in numerous countries around the world, it hasn’t always been this way, and nations like Japan have only recently begun to relax their gambling rules to allow its first three casinos to be built. In the past, some nations have sought to walk the fine line between embracing the gaming world and maintaining a strong moral stance – and you might be surprised to learn that the USA – home to the famous Las Vegas strip – was one of them.
In the USA, gambling has a complicated history, and despite Las Vegas being one of the world’s biggest and most popular gambling destinations today, getting there has been a journey. The country’s handling of casinos has always been geared towards balancing morals with income, and for this reason, in several of the nation’s other states, casinos can be found on the water in order to limit their geographical and social impact while simultaneously providing income for the states in concerned.
During the application process, many potential casino developments receive strong opposition from locals due to their potential impact, but by placing them on the water, some developers have been able to sway public opinion in their favour. In the early days, this saw a number of opulent riverboat casinos launched in states along the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi River, with gambling permitted only to take place during a short cruise in the 1990s and once a boat had left the dock.
These days, although the strict rules of times gone by have since been relaxed, water remains a key feature amongst some of America’s finest casinos – and the same can be said for the nearby island of the Bahamas. Today, there remain a number of casinos in, on and near the water, some of which can only be accessed by boat. Offering up a unique experience that comes complete with breath-taking ocean and river views, we asked the experts at online casino GoldenSlot to pick us out three of America’s finest.
Golden Nugget, Atlantic City
Set in the heart of Atlantic City’s revitalised Marina District, the show-stopping Golden Nugget casino has been the subject of a huge $150 million renovation over the past decade, with the resort expanding outwards to include a range of signature dining options, an opulent spa and salon and the luxurious new H2O Pool and Bar.
Recognised with a prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award for hospitality, impeccable service and an all-round excellent experience is guaranteed, and the sophisticated Chart House eatery, located right on the water, is the perfect place to take in the sunset over dinner before heading to the casino.
The casino itself boasts an impressive array of slots and table games, but a highlight is its shiny new poker room, which attracts big-spending gamblers who are serious about winning and offers an exclusive feel that sets it apart from the crowd.
Resorts World Bimini Casino, The Bahamas
Set on the golden sands of Bimini, where crystalline turquoise waters lap the shore and swaying palms line the beach, when it comes to luxurious casino resorts, it really doesn’t get much better than this.
If you’re arriving by boat, then you can dock at the on-site Fisherman’s Village Marina where you’ll find the resort’s sprawling marketplace, comprising a plethora of sophisticated eateries, bars and boutique-style shops.
The casino itself is connected to a breath-taking fine dining restaurant located directly on the impressive Mega Yacht Marina and enjoys unrivalled ocean views, while inside, you’ll find 10,000 square feet of gaming space filled with numerous gaming tables, 160 slot machines, a high-limit gaming salon and an excellent sportsbook.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Hollywood
Hollywood is known for its lively party scene, and the Seminole Hard Rock certainly doesn’t disappoint, regularly showcasing high-profile performers such as Pitbull and Seal to entertain its guests at its on-site arena. Add to that a vast array of clubs and bars, and it’s truly a nightlife lover’s paradise – but with all the style and sophistication you’d expect from an AAA Four Diamond-rated resort.
At the casino, you’ll find music memorabilia lining the walls, while the venue itself is set on an impressive lagoon-style pool featuring extravagant waterfalls, mountain rocks, private cabanas and a towering waterslide. Those travelling by boat can dock at the yachting centre nearby, or over at the marina in Fort Lauderdale.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
