A casino (also known as a gambling house or kasino) is an establishment for certain types of gambling. Casinos are often built near or combined with hotels, restaurants, retail shops, cruise ships or other tourist attractions. They may also host live entertainment events such as stand-up comedy, concerts or sports.
Aside from the standard range of card tables, roulette and slot machines, some casinos also offer a variety of table games specific to Asian culture. These include sic bo (which spread to European and American casinos in the 1990s), fan-tan, baccarat, and pai gow. Occasionally, other regionally popular games such as two-up and banca francesa are found in casinos.
In addition to the usual amenities, many casinos now employ technology to enhance the gaming experience. For instance, some table games have betting chips with microcircuitry that interacts with electronic systems to monitor the exact amount wagered minute by minute, alerting staff quickly if there is any deviation from the expected results. In addition, many casinos now employ the use of video cameras to oversee game play.
As a result of these technological advances, many casinos have become more than just a place to gamble—they are an all-inclusive luxury experience. From the historic elegance of the Casino de Monte-Carlo to the modern opulence of Marina Bay Sands, these casinos are the ultimate temples of temptation for high rollers and aficionados. With five-star hotel accommodations, Michelin-starred restaurants, and designer boutiques, these casinos cater to the every whim of their wealthy patrons.