A casino is a facility where people play games of chance. Some travelers travel the world specifically to visit casinos, while others inadvertently end up in them, perhaps enjoying the clinking of slot machines and shuffling of cards as time seems to stand still.
While casinos add a variety of luxuries to help attract players, the primary entertainment is gambling. Slot machines, black jack, roulette and craps generate the billions of dollars in profit that casinos rake in annually. Besides the profits, casinos also pay out comps to loyal players. These free goods and services can include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows, limo service and airline tickets. To be eligible, patrons must spend a certain amount of money at the casino. The exact amount depends on the type of game played, the amount of money bet and the number of hours spent at the table. Ask a casino employee about the requirements.
Security is another important component of the casino experience. With large amounts of money being handled within the confines of a casino, both patrons and employees may be tempted to cheat or steal. In many cases, this is done in collusion between two or more people, but it can also happen on a smaller scale. Security cameras and personnel are positioned throughout the facility to help deter this activity.
The modern casino is a much more elaborate facility than its forebears. Stage shows, lighted fountains, hotels and elaborate themes all contribute to the overall atmosphere. The most famous of these is the Monte Carlo casino, which first opened in 1863 and has long been a major source of revenue for the principality of Monaco.