Whether you’re looking for glamour, history or just plain fun, casinos are always a thrill. These famous casinos are home to slot machines, poker rooms, table games and a whole lot more. From the opulent and glamorous Bellagio in Las Vegas to the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden, these casinos have something for everyone.
While some casino games can be skill-based, the majority of them provide a predictable long-term advantage to the house, or “casino.” Players who possess the skills necessary to overcome this disadvantage are known as advantage players. Casinos utilize a variety of technologies to prevent advantage play, including hidden video cameras, computerized systems to oversee betting chips minute by minute and to quickly discover any statistical deviation from expected results, and even roulette wheels that are electronically monitored for anomalies.
In addition to gambling, casinos also offer top-notch hotels, spas, restaurants and live entertainment. However, it’s important to remember that casinos are designed to be addictive and money-taking, so it’s best to set a budget before you head to the casino. It’s also wise to avoid drinking too much of the free alcohol, since it can lead to reckless behavior and excessive spending.
The word casino is derived from the Latin caucina, meaning “cloistered place.” In modern usage, it refers to any establishment that offers certain types of gambling. It can be distinguished from a regular gaming hall, which is open to all and does not offer any special amenities.