The game of poker is one that is popular not just for the play itself, but also for the overall experience. If you have any doubts about that, just consider how many people choose Las Vegas for their vacations.
They go there for the gambling options like poker, but for the entertainment and atmosphere at its giant luxury casinos too. There is a thing known as ‘gambling tourism’, which sees people travel to exotic locations in search of exciting venues to gamble at.
Of course, that phenomenon would never have taken off if such venues were not in plentiful supply. We have put together a guide to the finest places around the world for playing poker.
Things to Bear in Mind before Travelling
Before you set off to another part of the world, you should make sure you have suitable accommodation and currency sorted out. You should also think about how you are going to get around once you arrive. Then there is the matter of the poker play. The venues we will list here are ones that attract players of a very high standard.
Unless you are ultra-confident about your ability, you may want to get some practice in first. The best and easiest way of doing that is to play poker games online. This can be a smart move even if you are experienced, as it will help you to get in the groove before you travel. A bit of online warming up never hurt anyone.
The Best Global Venues for Playing Poker
• The Bellagio Hotel and Casino
Although there are great poker venues in almost every country, we are starting off in the good ole US of A. Las Vegas is still the king of casino gambling and The Bellagio is one of its most iconic venues.
You will almost certainly know it even if you have never visited – thanks to its famous fountains. These have served as a backdrop in numerous hit movies over the years.
It is a giant structure that is home to all manner of entertainment, but the focus in this article is on its poker room. That used to be known as ‘Bobby’s Room’, but this was changed to the ‘Legends Room’ five years ago.
If you want to play here you will need to have an impressive bankroll, because it is strictly high stakes. From the décor to the dress code, everything is top class – so no t-shirt and jeans.
When it comes to the actual poker games, you will find every popular variant on offer here. Texas Hold’em is a particular favorite, due to the medium to high-limit games provided in the room. The Bellagio Legends Poker Room is the only one in the whole of Vegas that offers Hold’em games in that range.
The room also has no-limit Hold’em and the PLO Double Bomb Pot games. There is something for everyone here.
• The City of Dreams Macau
Macau is seen by many as the main rival to Vegas, and venues like the City of Dreams certainly live up to that billing. This luxury resort is considered to be the island’s crown jewel.
It is an enormous complex that contains more than 30 bars and restaurants, hundreds of shops, and three different casinos. And at the heart of the gambling experience is the PokerStars LIVE room.
What makes that place stand out is the poker tournaments that it offers. You will find a live tournament available there more or less any day of the week. Of course, not all poker players like tournaments – some people prefer standard cash games. Well those can be found in the PokerStars LIVE room too; so you will not be left out.
Dress is a bit more relaxed here and the atmosphere more informal.
• The Casino de Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo is another haven of gambling and it is home to the Casino de Monte Carlo. This is a remarkable building that dates back to the middle of the 19th century.
Princess Caroline of Monaco was the person who had the idea for the casino, seeing it as a way of saving the House of Grimaldi. The plan was such a success that the casino became central to the economy of the region. What makes that more astonishing is that residents of Monte Carlo are banned from using the casino. It is open only to those from abroad.
The primary type of poker to be found here is Texas Hold’em Ultimate, which is a version where the aim is to beat the dealer. This is a casino to dress up for, because it is all about old-world opulence.
These are the three fine poker venues to consider when planning your next trip.
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