BY CLAY LARROY
In
the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both
new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books,
videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am
providing valuable information about wonderful vacation destinations. When you want to
plan a vacation contact me!
Casino
Etiquette
While it’s neither mandatory
nor necessary, dealers are paid minimum wage and generally expect a tip of
5-10% when you are winning. Slipping a dealer or cashier a chip is just like a
cash tip: a small gratuity for services rendered. Don’t forget your cocktail
waitresses and valet parking, who make money off of tips as well.
General rules of courtesy
apply, even in a rowdy casino, including:
- Always refrain from
giving other players advice, unless asked.
- If you need to leave
your chair for a quick break and intend to return, signal this by leaving
a cup or personal item on the chair, or leaning the chair against the
machine or table.
- Never touch blackjack
cards dealt face up - you may only touch those dealt face down.
- When betting mixed
chips, stack the highest value on the bottom and the lowest on top. The
dealer can more easily read your bet, and this also helps the casino
monitor cheating.
- Check with players at a
high-stakes table to see if they would like you to wait until the shuffle
to join. This courtesy is not necessary at low denomination tables.
- Personal electronic
devices are frowned upon by casinos. This doesn’t mean you have to leave
them at home, but use them appropriately. To limit cheating, no cell
phones or other electronics can be used while seated at a game. Cameras
may be used with discretion, depending on the establishment. In the past,
rules that prohibited photography were in place to protect players from
being caught on film. As gambling has become more accepted by the
mainstream, the rules have relaxed. When in doubt, ask a security guard what’s
permissible.
- Most casinos have
strictly enforced rules about under-age persons stopping in the casino
area. Even mothers with toddlers will often be asked to move along if they
stop to watch the action at a table. If you travel with children, anticipate
having to make babysitting arrangements, a service offered by most casino
resorts.
Getting "Rated"
On this planet, there are
creatures known as "whales" - big gamblers that casinos actually fly
to their establishments, who receive complimentary rooms, meals and
entertainment. However, you do not have to be a whale to earn complimentary
amenities. Most casinos will happily rate any gambler and provide awards for
enthusiastic play.
Upon arrival at the casino,
ask the reception desk about obtaining a "player’s card" sometimes
also known as a "slot card". The casino uses a player’s card to keep
track of your gambling. When playing slot machines, you place the card into a
slot on the machine. At tables, you provide your card to the dealer and you are
rated on how long you play and your average bet. Typically, play for less than
an hour is not rated and players should not bother to give the dealer their
card. Most casinos hold these records for up to 18 months and will award
complimentary amenities. Often, amenities are awarded on the spot, simply by
playing three or more hours at a single table with an average bet of $10 or
more.
Preparations
If you want to be perceived
as a high roller, then dress like a high roller; otherwise, it’s perfectly
acceptable to go the casual route, as most people do. If your hotel has a pool
or health club, you may want to pack appropriately and pull yourself away from
the gaming tables for a much needed break.
If you are not familiar with
the games played at casinos, purchase a book and do a bit of study beforehand.
Game software is also available to simulate various games, letting you practice
and hone your skill level. Once at the casino, you’ll have many opportunities
to learn how to play, including casino instruction, in-house television
programming, and simply watching others try their luck. Do not be intimidated
by your lack of knowledge. Generally, the lower denomination tables will have
the least experienced players and will welcome well-intentioned efforts at
learning a game.
Set a budget and stick to
it... this often heard advice is too often little heeded. Remember, the odds
are with the house, not with you. This advice has a financial aspect, as well
as an emotional one. Luck plays a big role in the gambling process, so think of
it as entertainment. If you win, that’s great. If you lose, it’s
entertainment... as long as you have properly budgeted for your entertainment
expenses.
Finally, make sure you allow
yourself a little time to decompress after returning from your vacation.
Casinos can have high-energy atmospheres, and gambling can be stressful. Relax.
Enjoy yourself. There’s no sense in ruining a perfectly good vacation by
pushing your luck, so stop while you’re ahead!
Go on then. Don’t keep lady
luck waiting.
REFERENCE SITES:
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/
It's wonderful to learn about
new cultures and to be able to travel easily to so many countries.
Stephen A. Schwarzman
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