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When you think of a top casino destination, what comes to mind? Yep – Las Vegas, with all its glitz and gaudy glamour, is everyone’s first thought. There’s no doubt that Sin City casts a huge shadow over the world when it comes to casino tourism, but travellers who love to take in the action of card games, roulette wheels, and slot machines can find many other destinations across the globe to enjoy themselves.
So, if you’re planning to trot the globe in search of atmospheric casinos, interesting locales, and big payouts, read on to find out some of the best places to visit — Las Vegas not included.
The Bahamas
A stones’ throw from Miami, The Bahamas attracts droves of tourists looking for an exotic island break. However, the country also has a tradition of casino gambling, with big venues like Atlantis emulating some of the over-the-top glitz usually associated with Las Vegas. Atlantis offers poolside service which includes gambling, so you don’t have to choose between your suntan and your favourite games. Such is the popularity of casinos worldwide, you can even enjoy them on the small screen, with dedicated mobile gambling apps from online casinos across the globe. WSOP is one of the most iconic names in online poker, and conjures the big casino atmosphere from your mobile. And with WSOP bonus codes available, new players can get a head start and build their bankroll.
Mobile apps are far from the only casino inspired media, as movie fans may be familiar with The Ocean Club, a little slice of heaven located on Paradise Island. It’s where James Bond rolls up in Casino Royale, and rolls out in an Aston Martin won at the card table. The hotel now offers a 007 themed menu, which is classified until guests arrive for their lunch. You don’t need me to tell you about the pristine sandy beaches, the azure ocean lapping on the shore, or the vibrant food and culture. A tip for visitors — make sure to hire a car, get off the resort, and go exploring.
South Africa
Casinos have a long and storied history in South Africa, and the country plays host to some of the most iconic venues on the globe. Sun City is probably the most famous resort, but there are plenty of others to choose from, with great food, entertainment, golf, and much more on offer.
Away from the casinos, visitors will find no shortage of things to fill a holiday up with. There are opportunities to see wildlife on safari, with lions, elephants, rhinos and all manner of monkeys roaming in their natural habitat. The coasts are dramatic, and fans of watersports won’t be disappointed. And modern, cosmopolitan cities like Cape Town are worth a trip themselves. Another tip — the Garden Route road trip on the Western Cape is on the bucket list of many travellers, so called as it takes in epic beaches, dense forests, and blue lakes and lagoons.
London
The United Kingdom has a history of gambling that stretches back for centuries. The first regulated horse racing bets were placed in 1550, and the 18th Century saw the import of casinos from France, where they were hugely fashionable. London casinos have a different vibe from those in other big gambling hubs, but the atmosphere is exciting, and new players are welcome. There are also a range of casinos to suit budgets — the Hippodrome in Leicester Square has a more casual, relaxed feel, whereas Crockford’s in Mayfair requires smart dress, and is kitted out with rich mahogany and leather.
Away from the casinos, London offers almost endless possibilities. Arty types are spoilt for choice with large galleries such as Tate Modern, Britain, and the National Gallery, while history buffs can view the permanent collections of numerous museums for free. English food has a bad rep, but actually nothing could be further from the truth — London contains any cuisine you can think of, as well as several award-winning restaurants serving traditional British food.
Vegas may be synonymous with casino gambling, but the world offers many alternatives. Whether you’re going on holiday primarily to gamble, or fancy a flutter in between wild adventures, the world has you covered.
