The popularity of gambling around the world has seen cities build entire economies off its back. Unsurprisingly, because of this, there are a number of destinations around the world that have turned into absolute havens for gamblers to visit. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the most exciting gambling travel destinations, as well as their lesser-known highlights.
Background: Gambling in the Digital Age vs. Hitting Up the Casinos
At this point, gambling is, perhaps, the most popular that it’s ever been. This is due in no small part to the role that the digital age has played in making gambling more accessible to the general population. Nowadays, you can try to play crypto slots from your phone or laptop; a far cry from the time when this was pretty much only possible in casinos.
Nevertheless, gambling online can’t really match the incredible atmosphere you’ll find in casinos around the world. These iconic venues are home to some fascinating people, and can be incredibly exciting places to visit, even if you aren’t planning on partaking in any gambling yourself.
It’s no surprise, too, that casinos have such a significant role for us, culturally and economically. The first casino was opened all the way back in the early 1600s, and, since then, increasingly have been founded right across the globe.
Our Favorite Travel Destinations for Gambling
The following cities are some of our Favorite places in the world for gambling. But there’s more to them than that; they also make for fascinating destinations to visit in their own right.
Hong Kong/Macau
Hong Kong is arguably one of the most exciting cities in the world for just about any kind of traveller; indeed, the city has as much to offer backpackers as it does high rollers.
Compact, bustling, and, in many ways, deeply iconic, Hong Kong is home to dazzling skyscrapers, incredible food, unique architecture, and some of the best casinos and gambling establishments in Asia more generally.
Of course, no gambler’s trip to Hong Kong would be complete without making a visit to nearby Macao, a fascinating autonomous region that blends cultural influences from China and Asia more generally with Portuguese-style architecture and cuisine. In addition to the stunning Ruins of St. Paul, Macao is especially regarded for its casinos; in fact, many regard Macao as one of the world’s premiere gambling destinations.
Naturally, there’s more to the island than casinos, so it’s well worth heading there for a daytrip from Hong Kong, no matter what your interests are. In fact, Macao is also home to a number of gorgeous hiking trails, making it a fantastic place to get in touch with nature and stretch your legs, too.
Las Vegas
Perhaps nowhere in the world is as famous for gambling than Las Vegas is. It’s been the setting of countless movies and TV shows, many of which depict characters making it big (or, in many cases) going bust in Sin City.
Home to world-renowned casinos like Caesar’s Palace and Luxor Hotel & Casino, it’s no surprise that visitors from across the globe travel to Vegas to sample the gambling scene and nightlife. The city’s notorious Strip is an especially popular destination, as well as being the site of more than a few debauched nights out.
However, Las Vegas also features some uniquely beautiful scenery and natural landscapes. It’s surrounded by a number of gorgeous mountains, for example, making it something of an undercover destination for nature-lovers.
In fact, Vegas is actually a fantastic place to go rock climbing. Thanks to its rocky crags and canyons, the city is turning into something of a haven for climbers, who visit and stay for months on end while they explore the incredible desert landscapes outside of the city.
So, whether you’re a big fan of the great outdoors or want to rake it in big at the casinos, Las Vegas has something to offer you!
Monaco
Located in the French Riviera, Monaco, which is technically a sovereign city-state, rather than being part of France, is another of the world’s most famous gambling destinations. It boasts some of Europe’s most historic and iconic casinos, including the Casino de Monte-Carlo, and is pretty much a mecca for any gambling enthusiast who wants to try their luck.
However, Monaco is also a fascinating destination for those with a keen interest in exploring diverse cultures. The Prince’s Palace of Monaco is massive and very much worth visiting; so, too, is the massive local aquarium.
What’s more, Monaco actually boasts a surprising number of free attractions, making it a great choice to visit for backpackers or travellers on a budget. You don’t have to come here to gamble to have a fantastic trip.