With the ever growing popularity of poker, and a recent surge in views of the televised World Series of Poker, it’s no wonder that several countries around the world cash in on this game of skill. If a vacation is in your near future, and keeping your poker skills sharp is a necessity along the way, consider one of the following destinations that have thriving card playing communities.
London, U.K.
Home to the World Series of Poker Europe each September, England’s capital has some of the most well known casinos and card clubs including the Grosvenor Victoria Casino, and The Empire in Leicester Square. An added bonus is to this destination is the culture available away from the tables. London’s sightseeing and tourism is among the best in Europe, and is sure to be enough to clear your mind should your cards at the tables not be in your favor.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Considered by many the poker capital of the world, Las Vegas was founded with tourism in mind. Casinos, hotels, and even amusement parks fill this desert city, though the gambling and nightlife is the primary reason why so many people flock to here every year. Casinos like the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the MGM Grand bring in all types of crowds, forcing you to choose wisely. Some tables may be run by deep-pocketed poker experts, while others may be crowded with groups of beginners. Regardless, Sin City embodies poker, providing entertainment for all kinds of players.
San Jose, Costa Rica
While many may not consider Costa Rica a poker hotspot, gambling is legal in this Central American country with more than 30 casinos in the capital city alone. Hosting a stop on the Latin American Poker Tour, San Jose is a surprisingly popular destination for poker enthusiasts. In addition to this, it’s a tropical country; a dream vacation in itself. Beaches, waterfalls, and dense forests provide great scenery for those who wish to explore the countryside with some hard earned cash after a hot streak at the tables.
Macau, China
One of the wealthiest regions in Asia, Macau’s high quality of life attracts tourists from all over the world looking to indulge in this rich lifestyle. Surpassing Las Vegas for the most visits and revenue from gamblers, this city squeezes 33 casinos within 11 miles, some of which replicating those from Las Vegas itself. The Wynn Macau, MGM Hotel, and Grand Lisboa are just a few of Macau’s high-end gaming markets, having opened a number of poker rooms within the last 10 years. If you’ve had a great deal of success at the casinos, Senado Square within the city has some of the best luxury shopping destinations in the continent. However, for poker players, Macau should be first on the list for a gambling experience truly unlike any other.