When most people hear the word “gambling,” the first thing they think of is Las Vegas. For good reason too, as the city’s reputation as the world’s “gambling capital” has been well-earned. All across Sin City, you will find big-name casinos, as well as smaller businesses that let you bet on sports, spin reels, and play some cards.
But, is Las Vegas really the best gambling destination in the world? There are certainly a lot of competitors who might want to take the title. In this article, we are going to take a look at a few examples of tourist destinations where gambling is the main attraction, and let you know how Las Vegas stacks up.
iGaming is a Game Changer
The first thing to note is that gambling no longer requires special travel plans. Everyone can access their favorite games and even original titles by visiting online casinos. Now that players have access to betting instant bank transfers, the gambling market has completely changed. Travel no longer needs to be a consideration for the average player.
In order to play games at online casinos, all you have to do is create an account. Once that is done, deposit your funds into the account, all the while making sure that you place money that you can afford to lose. From there is it a simple matter of picking the game you want to play, and making your first ever wager. It is as simple as that.
While iGaming is certainly on the rise, there are still many people, even those who enjoy gambling online, who want to experience the face-to-face thrill of the most glamorous casinos. But, is a Las Vegas trip really the best choice for those people? Let’s take a look at why most pick Vegas, and what the alternatives are.
Why Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the United States. It even rivals the cool vibes of New York City when it comes to attracting tourists from all over the world. There are certainly reasons for why Sin City has become such a hot spot for visitors.
Getting to experience the grandiose and luxurious casinos will be most people’s number one reason for visiting Vegas. Tourists will find entrances to the biggest and most spectacular gambling halls that you’ve ever come across. Within these halls, you will find roulette, blackjack, poker, and thousands of slots, along with complementary cocktails, and top-tier bars/restaurants.
On top of that, pop culture is saturated with depictions of Las Vegas. Most people choose Vegas, because it is the only tourist destination that relates to gambling that they know. Films like Rain Man, The Hangover, and Casino have depicted Sin City as one of the most bizarre places in the world, and most people simply want to experience a fraction of the madness.
Atlantic City
When discussing the alternatives to Las Vegas, most people will bring up Atlantic City. Often referred to as the “Vegas of the East Coast,” Atlantic City is another famous, or infamous, American gambling destination. Located in New Jersey, the city contains many of the same casino brands as Vegas, as well as a slew of luxury hotels, top-rated restaurants, and bars where they can mix a mean cocktail.
However, what Atlantic City lacks is the sheer grandiosity of Sin City. Apart from casinos, you will not find much in Atlantic City. Of course, there are museums and other attractions, but nothing that is uniquely “Atlantic City.” In Vegas on the other hand, you will get to see once-in-a-lifetime stage shows, magic performances, cabaret, burlesque dances, and much more.
Monte Carlo
For Europeans, Monte Carlo carries the same weight as Vegas. The city has been portrayed many times in European films, novels, and visual art. Located in Monaco, the city may be small, but its reputation is international. But, does it justify a reputation that can contend with Las Vegas? That is what we are here to find out.
In truth, a visit to Monte Carlo may excite a lot of people, even more than a trip to Vegas. After all, the historical roots of this gambling city date much further back than those of Vegas. Indeed, the establishment of the casino could be traced back to the 19th century, and certainly there are attractions in the city (museums and such), that will explain it all.
However, gamblers are going to Monte Carlo for one thing, and one thing only; the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. There is real history here, that simply cannot be found in Vegas. While the Monte Carlo Casino may not have the same glitz and glamour as the big-name casinos in Vegas, it does have a certain level of mystery and charm, that cannot be replicated by any modern gambling establishment.
Macau
Finally, we must talk about Macau, the one place in the world that can contend with Las Vegas in terms of popularity. Macau even surpassed Vegas during the era of Stanley Ho, before his tragic passing a few years ago. Macau is a hot spot for business meetings among East Asian CEOs and business owners. It is also the one place that can compete with Sin City in terms of glamour and glitz.
Tall casino buildings tear through the clouds in Macau. Within, you will find thousands of slot games, baccarat tables galore, and empty blackjack tables that beckon foreign players. At night, stages are lit up to show some of the most impressive acts you’ve ever seen in your life. However, where Macau stands out is in the sightseeing and cultural heritage.
Those who aren’t interested in the casino-side of things can still walk through the city, and visit incredible historical landmarks. You will find ruins of the oldest, and biggest catholic church that has ever been built in East Asia. You will find temples and shrines to ancient Chinese gods and goddesses. And you will get to experience some of the beautiful landmarks you’ve ever seen.
