2020 has been an unusual year for the casino industry, with more players moving online than ever before thanks to the lockdowns and social distancing rules that have changed the face of the industry. It’s fair to say that online casinos have experienced a boom in custom from those looking for entertainment from the comfort of their own homes, with Google Trends reporting a sharp increase in searches for online casino sites at the height of the pandemic back in May – and technological advances, such as the introduction of Virtual Reality (VR) gaming, are giving players a more immersive and realistic experience than ever before.
But despite the appeal of heading to a casino online , there’s nothing quite like the real thing. A place to sip champagne, rub shoulders with some of the wealthiest people in the world and multiply your fortune with a few games of Blackjack or Roulette, it’s a glamorous experience that many players now miss.
A memorable evening at the casino comes down to more than whether you win big or not, and beautiful physical surroundings and an unrivalled atmosphere are all part of its appeal – and both are things that you just don’t get from the comfort of your sofa at home.
Across the globe, some of the biggest name casinos attract high-rollers from all continents, each of whom are in search of a glamorous evening at the tables, and of course, that much-loved adrenaline hit, too. And, with many of them set in impressive luxury resorts, making a holiday of it is becoming increasingly popular, with guests travelling from far and wide for the experience and staying for a week or two to make the most of it. Although it might not feel like an option in 2020, the time is coming to look ahead to 2021 – and with a possible return to normality on the horizon, there’s no time like the present to start planning.
When it comes to beauty and uniqueness, some casinos simply have more appeal than others, and there are several that enthusiasts just have to tick off their must-visit lists. So, whether you’re planning a glitzy night out or a casino getaway for 2021, then look no further – because we’ve rounded up the best of the bunch.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Reported to have cost an eye-watering £7 billion to construct, the Marina Bay Sands Casino Resort in Singapore is a must – whether you consider yourself a complete beginner, or a seasoned pro. This beautifully designed and utterly opulent establishment, which boasts a three-tower card deck design, is an iconic fixture of the Singapore skyline – and also happens to be the most expensive casino in the world.
Featuring 500 gaming tables, over 2,000 slot machines and 2,500 rooms and suites, this 161,000 square foot complex exudes extravagance from every corner. And, if the allure of the casino isn’t enough to keep you entertained for the duration of the trip, then you’ll find a theatre, shopping mall, museum and botanical gardens all within the grounds of the resort.
Whilst you’re there, don’t miss out on taking a dip in the resort’s iconic infinity pool and sipping a bottle of champagne at the 57th floor sky bar – both bucket list experiences you’ll be talking about for years to come.
The Venetian Macao, Macao
The biggest casino in the world and the largest single structure building in Asia, the impressive Venetian resort sprawls across an enormous 10,500,000 square feet, and is home to a total of 3,000 rooms and suites to cater to its wealthy clientele.
As you can imagine, there’s no shortage of table games and slots here, and every inch of this decadent resort has been designed to exude opulence and luxury – from its sumptuous furnishings and ritzy décor to its range of beautiful restaurants and bars, which serve up some of the finest food and cocktails in the world.
The resort also boasts a 15,000 seat sports venue, the Coati Arena, for those who are looking for a little more entertainment outside of the casino. And of course, much like its Las Vegas incarnation, The Venetian wouldn’t be The Venetian without offering guests a gondola ride along the artificial Venice-style canals that run throughout the resort, allowing you to experience the magic of Europe from the entirely opposite side of the world.
Kurkhaus of Casino Baden Baden, Germany
Nestled on the edge of Germany’s picturesque Black Forest region, the Kurkhaus is an establishment of great cultural significance, and is now home to a decadent spa resort, a conference complex – and of course, one of the world’s best and most beautiful casinos.
Dating all the way back to 1824, the Kurkahus has survived not one, but two world wars, and became the epicentre of casino gaming when it was outlawed in France in the 1930s.
Designed by Friedrich Weinbrenner, its neoclassical design features sumptuous soft furnishings in vibrant reds, accented with dramatic gold chandeliers. There’s no denying its opulence, in spite of its small size – and since former screen siren Marlene Dietrich once declared it “the most beautiful casino in the world”, there’s no doubt that it’s thoroughly deserving of its place on this list.
Casino de Monte Carlo, Monaco
The beautiful belle époque Casino de Monte-Carlo has once been recognised as one of the most lavish and sophisticated casinos in the world, and with its lavish interiors and impeccable service, it certainly isn’t hard to see why. Perhaps the most iconic of all the casinos on this list, it’s also one of the oldest and grandest in the word, and also happens to be the favourite haunt of secret service agent, 007.
Dreamed up by Princess Caroline, the Princess of Consort Monaco, construction of this fabulous establishment began back in the late 1850s and was later transformed, in 1878, by renowned architect, Charles Garnier. The casino went on to transform the fortunes of Monaco’s economy, providing the ruling house of Grimaldi with its primary source of income over the years.
Its long and rich history is still evident within its walls today, and is a must visit for casino lovers of all skill levels thanks to its unique and beautiful atmosphere and the all-round opulent experience it provides.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
