A casino is simply a place that allows people to gamble. Many add luxuries to lure customers, like restaurants, free drinks and stage shows. But even the most spartan places that house gambling activities can be called casinos.
Stepping into a casino is like entering another world, one filled with the buzz of champagne glasses clinking and the thump of slot machines making their rounds. There is a palpable energy to the place that can make even the most jaded person take a breath and marvel.
Casinos are designed to be visually stunning, often with opulent and intricate designs. They are often lit with bright and sometimes gaudy colors that help patrons forget their worries. They are also usually filled with stimulating scents and the sound of chatter and cheering.
Security starts on the floor, where dealers keep their eyes peeled for blatant cheating or stealing. Then there are the table managers and pit bosses, who have a wider view of the casino and can spot suspicious betting patterns. Cameras on the ceiling provide a high-tech eye-in-the-sky, which can be zoomed in to focus on suspicious patrons.
The best casinos offer plenty of comps to their big spenders, which can include free hotel rooms, food, tickets to shows and airline flights. Ask a casino employee or someone at the information desk for details. Those who play at the same casino frequently can earn perks, too, by signing up for loyalty programs or referring friends to the establishment.