Brick and mortar casinos have been around for literally hundreds of years. Today, these establishments are usually fantastic complexes that not only provide you with the opportunity to gamble at tables or spin slot reels, but also incorporate great eating and bar facilities. Some casinos offer hotel accommodation and other entertainment options such as live shows.
Whichever way you look at it, casinos are geared to get you in through the doors and part with your cash. There is no denying that you will be getting full value for your money, if only for the entertainment aspect of it.
Seasoned gamblers know, however, that there are a number of things that you should - or shouldn't - do in order to protect your bankroll and ease the losses while gambling.
We teach you how to handle your money properly, when to tip the dealer and even why it is advisable to play at online casinos first. These tips also include how to dress in a casino so that you are most comfortable!
Acclimatize Yourself at the Casino
Nobody can blame you for running around the casino like a kid let loose in candy store on your first visit. After all, those flashing lights and beeping sounds have been designed to increase your adrenaline and entice you to play.
Our advice, however is to take some time to acclimatize yourself to the place. Check out your environment by walking around a bit and seeing what the place has to offer. We also suggest that you don't overdo it in the drink department so that you have all your wits about you while checking out the place and making decisions about your gambling strategy.
Practice at an Online Casino First
You may think you know a thing or two about poker if you've played it around a garden table among friends, but we can guarantee you that it's not the same when you walk into a casino. Here you are suddenly faced with the real deal. Other players may distract you, the dealer's presence may affect you, and the general environment of flying chips and bets made with the merest of gestures may overwhelm you.
If your intention is to head to table games such as blackjack, craps, poker or baccarat, we sincerely suggest that you get some online practice first. Online casinos are designed to provide you with a realistic environment, while at the same time you can hone your skills and practice the games you want in the comfort of your own home, and without distractions. Even better, you can play many of these games for free before dropping real money as bets. Another suggestion is to try live casino games at online casinos to boost your confidence.
Tip the Casino Dealer
The casino dealer's job is to be professional and friendly at all times. However, the dealer works for the casino which - in very plain terms - wants your money. By all means, ask the dealer for advice when playing, but remember that you may be given advice that involves placing a bet with a lower chance of winning, for example.
Some dealers, however, will go that extra mile and provide you with sound advice. Make a side bet for a helpful, friendly dealer so that if he or she wins, you also do.
Accept Slots for What they Are
Slot machines are known as the moneymakers of the casino floor. It is not for nothing that you will find a lot more slot machines in a casino than any other game. This is due to the fact that slot machines are games of chance. There is no unique strategy that will help you beat the machine.
As such, our advice to you is to find a slot machine that looks fun to you and play to your heart's content - but within limit. Decide ahead of time how much you want to spend on the machine/s and when that money is over, get up and leave. If you are ahead, put aside your original stake and decide whether you want to leave while you are ahead or play with your winnings.
It goes without saying that you shouldn't be playing with money that you can't afford to lose. Casino gambling should be looked at as you would any other form of entertainment that costs money. If you come out ahead, it's a bonus.
Dress Comfortably at a Casino
This may seem like frivolous advice, but being uncomfortably dressed could make or break your casino experience.
Unless you are in an exclusive casino in Monte Carlo with a very strict dress code, most casinos allow you to turn up casually. As long as you are presentable, you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Wearing shoes that pinch or a dress that doesn't allow you to breath won't make your casino experience very pleasant, and could even affect the decisions you make.
Dress for the climate in the casinos, which tends to be on the cold side due to the air-conditioning. If you are moving around a lot then a jacket may not be necessary, but if you intend sitting at a poker or blackjack table for a long time, you may want to reconsider.
Don't Overlook Video Poker
Not everyone is geared for the free-spirited entertainment found on the casino floor. Some of us prefer sitting back and watching the action. This doesn't mean, however, that you need to forgo gambling pleasures. Enter video poker.
Many bars provide you the option of nursing your drink while playing video poker at your seat. You choose your wagers and your pace and enjoy a great evening away from the limelight.
The added advantage is that video poker comes with good odds, especially if you have mastered the basic strategy. You can practice video poker online to learn about games such as Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild, and then hit the bars.
Player's Card is your Casino Friend
It makes a lot of sense to sign up for a player's card at the casino. This is something that you will be offered after you make your first bet and has quite a few advantages.
Depending on your level of play, you will be able to redeem points for free drinks, games or spins. High roller players are the ones that really benefit from casino player's cards, as their points can be redeemed for free hotel accommodation and other pampering gifts.