Forget Las Vegas, South East Asia is the new gambling capital of the world. After Macau surpassed Las Vegas’s annual gambling revenue in 2006, many South East Asian countries have since lifted their ban on gambling and it has been a reward in more ways than one.
Singapore alone exceeded the annual gambling revenue of the entire Las Vegas strip with just two casinos. Now, integrated resorts are popping up around Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia and more, drawing in visitors and serious high-rollers looking for a thrill surrounded by luxury. And it’s not just the land-based casinos that are seeing a great deal of success, countries like Thailand and Taiwan, who don’t have physical casinos because their governments prohibit gambling, do offer online gaming, including the likes of Thailand Online Casino.
We take a look at five places who are seeing, or about to see, great success in the gaming world, so if you’ve been there and done that with the Vegas scene, consider South East Asia for your next entertainment destination.
Philippines
Manila, the capital of the Philippines is a populated bayside city littered with casinos. It’s a world-class dining destination, has an impressive landscape with beaches and volcanoes within 20 minutes of each other and boasts a remarkable real estate portfolio. Other than that, the Philippines is also one of the largest countries in the world with the greatest number of casinos, making it our top destination.
Head to the Nobu Hotel Manila, a boutique destination situated close to the Shops at the Boulevard, DreamPlay by DreamWorks, casinos, and Las Vegas-style theatres. Housed within a golden tower, the boutique hotel has a large outdoor pool, Nobu Spa, and signature restaurant. Enjoy fun-luxury celebrity-inspired guest rooms and an array of exciting games that suit all kinds of players.
High-rollers should head to the Li Ying VIP Club for high stakes gaming on Baccarat and Roulette tables. Players will also find a rare world of distinctive service and opulent luxury with the most competitive programs and table limits in Asia.
Another exclusive experience is Qi Long, a members-only gaming area that includes a mix of open gaming spaces, six private salons, and high stakes gaming.
Singapore
No list is complete without the marvellous three-pillared light in the Singapore sky, also known as Marina Bay Sands. Housed inside one of the world’s most iconic structures, the casino at Marina Bay Sands encompasses more than 15,000 square meters of gaming space spread over four levels. Boasting one of the world’s largest Swarovski crystal chandeliers, the casino is also home to over 600 table games, more than 1,500 slots and a wide array of dining options. It’s the ultimate gaming destination for serious players who love a thrill.
For all lodging needs, Marina Bay Sands boasts opulent suites including the chairman suite, Singapore’s pinnacle experience offering four bedrooms, 24-hour butler service, sauna, massage room and not one, but two living rooms. For the true high roller experience, opt-in for this suite and much more.
Cambodia
Rising from the ashes like a phoenix, Cambodia was once one of the poorest countries of South East Asia and has since become a popular destination for adventure travellers and recently, luxury seekers. After the Gold Crown opened in Poipet, the country saw a massive increase in casino numbers, often drawing in players from nearby Vietnam (where gambling is illegal). The two casino capitals are Phnom Penh and Poipet. In Phnom, players will find the world-class Naga World, Cambodia’s largest casino with over 1,700 guest rooms, 600 tables and more than 5,000 gaming machines. The casino-resort even has hotel suites for high-rollers with gaming tables within the room.
When you’re not gaming, try one of the 20 food and beverage concepts on the property including the Korean Grill, the Food Pavilion, the Lobby Lounge and much more.
Malaysia
It might come as a surprise, but Malaysia has only one casino by The Resorts World entertainment chain, a name recognized globally and one that started in Malaysia. Resorts World Genting sits between mountains on the border of Selangor and Pahang and offers players the chance to try their luck in a five-star resort surrounded by serene views.
Inside, Resorts World Genting boasts SkyCasino, a modern gaming space featuring one of the biggest selections of games in Asia. Visitors are in awe when they see the forest theme, which brings the ambience of the lush greenery outdoors, indoor.
Another hot favourite is the Genting Casino and Genting Club, the preferred way of gaming and entertainment. Enjoy all your favourite games alongside some of the best entertainment line-up.
Japan
In 2018, Japanese lawmakers approved a bill that allows casinos in the country. Since then, Japan is predicted to be the next Vegas of South East Asia. Three large, luxury integrated resorts are currently being planned and, as with everything in Japan, we can only assume it’s going to be ahead of its time. While there are no casinos in the country now, that is predicted to change by 2021.
Image credit at the very top of the article: Kanokpol P./Bigstock.com
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