Las Vegas holds the title of being the biggest gambling mecca on the planet. But what if you’ve already visited Vegas and want to try something different?
The UK has attempted to create its own version of Las Vegas by rejuvenating what was once the world’s most famous seaside resort of Blackpool. After falling into decay – largely due to cheap air travel – the town has had no choice but to adapt.
With the rising interest in online gambling, Blackpool is making moves to adapt to this new reality with inspiration from large casino organisations like SkyCity in New Zealand and the Bellagio in Las Vegas.
Blackpool’s flirtation with gambling
Gambling has never been a historical part of Blackpool, but the town has always been famous for its shows at the Blackpool Tower and in the Winter Gardens. It also happens to be the home of ballroom dancing. When it comes to the best place to see a show in the UK, only London can compete with the rowdy gaudiness of Blackpool.
In recent years, attempts have been made to build the town’s first super casino. Sadly, the plans fell through at the last minute. However, the local council remains optimistic that Blackpool will be able to reinvent itself as the UK’s gambling hub in the future.
What is certain is that the ever-changing face of Blackpool is continually looking to adapt to the evolving needs of the market.
In the meantime, what other cities issue a strong challenge to the supremacy of Vegas as the gambling and entertainment capital of the world?
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam has never been a stranger to the notion of vice. While mainly associated with sex and drugs, it has an increasingly large gambling community, and not just centered around the Red Light District.
The Netherlands has more than a dozen casinos operated by the government, with two of them being in Amsterdam. Although the casino at the airport is a more casual affair, the Holland Casino is at the heart of the gambling community here.
This posh casino is situated alongside one of the most popular canal-cruise routes. It’s the only venue in Amsterdam that not only offers gambling opportunities but also nightclubs, poker tournaments and fine-dining restaurants.
The Holland wouldn’t look out of place if it were transported to the Vegas Strip.
Macau, China
Easily accessible via direct flight or a short ferry ride from Hong Kong, Macau rakes in more cash than Vegas. It’s the home of the Asian gambling world, and its turnover amounts to 400% more than what Vegas takes in every year, with it finally surpassing Vegas in 2006. When it comes to pure revenue alone, Macau is the true gambling capital of the globe.
The former Portuguese colony contains 18 casinos, including many famous Vegas brands, such as Wynn and MGM. As in Sin City, you’ll find shopping malls, bars, fine-dining establishments and amusement parks.
What makes Macau special is that the historic centre has been meticulously preserved for visiting tourists.
Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo within the city-state of Monaco is quite possibly the most formal gambling environment in the world today. Even now, the casino still requires ultra-formal attire, which includes tuxedos for men and evening gowns for women.
You won’t find any of the rowdiness of Vegas here. It’s a place that oozes class, and don’t expect to uncover any discount deals on hotels. There’s a reason why this place has featured as the playground of James Bond.
There’s more than just the casino to explore, though. Check out the dates for the Monaco Formula One race as cars speed through the streets at more than 200mph.
Auckland
Fly to the edge of the map for a gambling experience like no other in Auckland. New Zealand has had a strange relationship with gambling, but it recently opened its doors to gamblers with SkyCity Auckland.
SkyCity Auckland is the city’s largest casino and has overseen an era of constant expansion. In the first quarter of 2021 alone, the city’s ‘Pokies’ recorded a $21m profit.
It’s also perfect for business travellers, as SkyCity Auckland invested $402m in a brand-new conference centre.
Conclusion
The world has long looked on with envy at the magic that is Las Vegas. The 365-day-long party in the desert has been almost impossible to replicate, but luxury destinations around the world are quickly catching up to the original gambling heart of the planet.
If you’re searching for something different, why not combine your next vacation with a trip to one of the world’s hottest gambling hubs?
Anglotopia was founded by Jonathan and Jackie Thomas in 2007 in a closet in Chicago. Anglotopia is for people who love Britain - whether it's British TV, Culture, History or Travel - we cover it all. Join us as we explore Britain and everything it has to offer!
