A casino is a gambling house that provides a variety of gaming options. Most casinos also offer hotel accommodations, restaurants and other attractions such as live entertainment. Some casinos are located in land-based venues while others are found in cruise ships, hotels, airports and even theme parks. In most cases, a casino is owned and operated by a private corporation and staffed by professional security forces. Modern casino security is typically divided into two departments: a physical security force and a specialized surveillance department. The former patrols the premises while the latter operates a closed-circuit television system known as the eye in the sky.
Casinos are often viewed as glamorous, decadent places where high stakes and luxury meet. From Vegas to China, the world’s most exclusive casinos offer opulent suites, spas and fine dining alongside classic table games like blackjack.
In Las Vegas, the famous Bellagio resort and casino is renowned for its fountain that’s been featured in a number of films including “The Hangover” and “Ocean’s 11.” The hotel has numerous poker rooms that feature high tables and bets and has hosted multiple World Poker Tour events. In addition to this, the casino also offers a variety of slot machines and upscale fashion stores for discerning shoppers.
Macau is home to seven of the ten largest casinos in the world. This Asian city was modeled after Las Vegas and its casinos are the backbone of the economy, earning it the title of the world’s largest gaming destination. The Venetian Macau on the Cotai Strip is a massive facility with over 540,000 square feet of casino space and four themed gaming areas.