Casino Hubs to Visit after the Coronavirus Crisis

Despite the surge in online gambling, the global casino industry remains a huge enterprise. Before the COVID-19 crisis came into the picture, the industry was touted to reach $525 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of approximately 4%, according to statistics provided by Research and Markets.

Travellers and gambling enthusiasts across the world visit these contemporary yet classic destinations that are home to large casinos, which offer much more than just an opportunity to gamble. These are sprawling and luxurious complexes of entertainment that could rival any small town, providing visitors with world-class experiences. In fact, many countries are trying hard now to build alternative casino cities to generate employment and attract more tourist revenues.

Although travel bans and social distancing norms have negatively impacted the sector in the beginning of 2020, activity will pick up once the restrictions are lifted. Let’s look at some of the glamorous names in the gambling industry to visit after the crisis dies down.

Macau Province, China

To experience the casino life on an unmatched level, Macau has to be the first on the list. Macau is a special administrative region of Mainland China. Gambling is legal in this land of skyscrapers, known for its high quality of life, which attracts wealthy tourists from across the world. The province boasts over 40 lavish casinos resorts, including prominent names like MGM, Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands. The gambling industry in this country is a multi-billion dollar market.

The Wynn Macau Resort has a 273,000 square feet gaming area, along with art galleries, pools, spas, four dining restaurants and 29 designer shops. Along with that, the resort features a mesmerizing “Performance Lake,” featuring a light, music and fire show. Another vibrant and contemporary gaming destination is the Venetian, a 39-storey hotel complex with 500,000 square feet of space in total. Along with 6,000+ gaming machines and 4 themed gambling areas, the resort features Venice-style canals and huge retail and dining arenas.

Las Vegas, USA

Featuring in countless tales, movies, songs and books, the original global casino hub is none other than the brash and extravagant strip of resorts in Las Vegas, Nevada. Known for its flamboyant lifestyle and legalised gambling culture, Las Vegas is often called the “Gambling Capital of the World.” “Sin City,” as it is also known, features over 100 casino resorts.

The MGM Grand in Las Vegas offers 171,500 square feet of gaming space, with 15 restaurants, spas, nightclubs, 25 shops, 2 theatres and pool complexes. Another name synonymous with class and style is the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, with 160,334 square feet of gaming area, and plenty of entertainment and food options. The Venetian, Wynn and Bellagio are other notable names in this category. With plenty of amusement parks, hotels and museums, Las Vegas is a premier tourist destination for fans of gambling and nightlife.

Marina Bay, Singapore

Another of Asia’s most sought-after gaming destinations is Singapore. These expensive and sophisticated venues have become a favourite among dedicated high rollers. The Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World casinos contains 2,500 rooms, 3 acres of nightclubs, swimming pools, theme parks and other entertainment options around the Sky Park.

The gaming industry in Singapore is still in its nascent stages, with gambling being legalised only in 2005. But, it is growing rapidly due to its proximity to China. The rich in China find the Singapore the ideal weekend luxurious destination. Aegean Paradise Cruise is another worthy name in the list of extravagant casinos of the region.

The global casino industry will slowly and steadily get back on its feet, once the travel restrictions are lifted by governments worldwide. They will be instrumental in reviving local economies, including the many travel agencies, transportation companies and alternative businesses, such as retail.