There’s nothing quite like that surge of adrenaline you get when you’re standing at the roulette table awaiting the next roll; it’s a special kind of thrill that could win you big – and set against the glamorous backdrop of one of the world’s finest casinos, the excitement only intensifies.
Gambling is an incredibly risky pursuit, and should only ever be done with money you can afford to lose – but if you’re confident you have the extra funds to play with, then a flutter or two can be lots of fun. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level and want to try out something a little more extravagant than your home town has to offer, then it might be time to consider a luxury casino getaway. And, with a plethora of show-stopping gaming venues around the world, there’s no better excuse to combine luxury travel with your favourite pastime.
Our advice? Get some practice in online first – you can find some of the best sites via newslotsite.org.uk. Then, take a look at our selection of the top ten casino cities around the world – based on reputation, quality and variety. Start practicing that poker face, then roll those dice to decide which one to head to first.
10. Los Angeles, California, USA
America is perhaps one of the world’s best-known countries for its casinos – but Los Angeles might not be such an obvious choice as the famous Sin City of Las Vegas. Even so, it boasts a range of impressive venues that are frequented by tourists and celebrities alike – from the famous Commerce Casino, which produces some of the world’s best poker players, to the trendy Bicycle Hotel and Casino, which opened in 1984, expanding in 2015 to become a seven-story, 70-room, 29-suite hotel stocked with a gastropub, cocktail lounge, spa, pool deck and private cabanas.
9. London, UK
The iconic English capital is perhaps more famous for its banking than its gambling but we feel it fully deserves its place in the top 10. Empire Casino is a stunning Vegas-style casino in Leicester Square, while The Victoria Casino in Paddington is certainly worth a visit especially if you are catching a train the following day. But our favourite London casino has to be The Hippodrome Casino in the West End. Comprising of three gaming floors, Lola’s underground casino, a steak house and seven bars, it really does help to put London firmly on the casino map. And according to professional players from Beastsofpoker.com, the experts in high stakes poker, The Hippodrome Casino is one of the best in London for round-the-clock action and tournaments with bigger buy-ins.
8. Paradise Island & Nassau, Bahamas
This sunshine paradise might not be the obvious choice when it comes to gaming, but the Bahamas will surprise casino lovers with its range of exciting options. Home to a selection of grand casino resorts, the Atlantis Paradise hosts the Poker Stars Caribbean Adventure Tournament every year. If you’re heading to Nassau, then don’t miss the amazing Crystal Palace Casino – it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the beach.
7. Paris, France
Perhaps best known for its romance and its string of iconic monuments, Paris comes alive by night when the wealthy and the famous head out for an evening at the roulette table. Top picks include the Cercle Haussman, situated in the heart of Paris near the Opera Garnier – which boasts 25 tables offering blackjack, Punto Banco, baccarat and various games of poker including 3 card and poker 21 – and Aviation Club de France, one of the country’s oldest casinos which opened back in 1907.
6. San Jose, Costa Rica
Another destination which might perhaps be a less obvious choice than most, vibrant San Jose is well known for both the variety and affordability of its casinos. With more than 15 in the city alone, there are plenty to keep you busy – but in our view, gaming in Costa Rica is best combined with taking some time to explore the rich culture and landscape of this beautiful country. With lots to see and do here, it’s a win-win destination.
5. Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA
It may come as no surprise that one of Atlantic City’s greatest draws is its casinos. Here, gaming action comes in virtually every variety; take a seat at a high-stakes poker table, have ago at Blackjack, or play the penny slots if that’s your thing – there’s something fun for everyone. With the industry being more or less what the city is built around, it’s a must-visit destination for those looking for an exciting gaming experience. Our top picks? Bally’s, Borgata and Caesars.
4. Marina Bay, Singapore
In recent years, Asia has made great strides on the casino scene, with a plethora of expensive and sophisticated venues popping up across the continent and fast making a name for themselves amongst dedicated high rollers. In Singapore, it doesn’t get much better than the iconic Marina Bay Sands – the options here for gambling are endless, with over 2,500 rooms, multiple swimming pools, night clubs and the largest atrium casino on the planet.
3. Macau, China
Fast making a name for itself as one of Asia’s most sough-after gaming destinations, the wealthy are starting to flock to Macau for an adrenaline fuelled evening or two at the poker table. It might not be quite as famous as Hong Kong just yet, but it is now home to some of the largest and most impressive casinos in the world. A former Portuguese colony, it derives about half of its economy from its casinos – proof, if you need it, that Macau takes its gambling entertainment offerings very seriously.
2. Monte Carlo, Monaco
When it comes to glamour and sophistication, it doesn’t get much better than Monaco. Playground of the rich and famous, it’s undoubtedly one of the most famous places in the world for gambling, and not without reason. One of the wealthiest places in Europe, its reputation is built upon some iconic casinos that were built there way back in the 19th century. the Casino de Monte Carlo is a must-see, but be sure to dress to impress.
1. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Let’s face it – there was only ever going to be one winner, and that, of course, has got to be Las Vegas. It might be brash and extravagant, but here you will find more casinos than you ever could have dreamed of – and they’re bigger, better and more ostentatious than anywhere else. If you’re a casino lover, then you have to head here at least once in your lifetime – not just to play with the high-rollers but to soak up an atmosphere that is truly unique, too. You can find insider info on the very best luxury hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, shows and events, designer shops and the most exciting visitor attractions via this online Las Vegas travel guide.
Main image at the very top of the article credit: Netfalls/Bigstock.com
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating