Knowing Casino Basics Can Save Money
Look For Discounts, Tip Well
Updated: 10:02 a.m. EST November 17, 2003
Did you know it's legal to gamble in Las Vegas? It's true! Along with the showgirls, fine dining, roller coasters, white tigers, magicians, nightclubs, Elvis impersonators, wedding chapels, spas, shopping, golf, and all of the other stuff Vegas has to offer, it also has a couple of slot machines and blackjack tables around just in case you get bored.
If you've been to Vegas, or any casino for that matter, you'll probably know some casino basics, but you'd be surprised how many people don't. Most of this is specific to Las Vegas, but a lot of it applies to casino gambling anywhere in the United States. Las Vegas casinos are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a week.
You must be 21 to even enter the gaming area, much less play the games. If you look young, be sure to carry some form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport because casino personnel may ask you to prove you're old enough to be there. If you're traveling with someone under 21 and have to pass through the casino to get to your room, restaurants, or other attractions, stick to the main walkways and don't stop near the slots or table games to play or even watch.
There are cameras, security personnel, and undercover operatives that watch every square inch of the casino at all times. Don't even think about trying to cheat -- you'll get caught and you will go to jail.
Be sure to pay attention to limits on table games, slots and video poker. If you mess up and wind up betting more or less than you could've or should've, the casino isn't going to listen to a, "But I didn't mean to."
Most casinos offer free or heavily discounted drinks to people playing the games, including slot machines. Cocktail waitresses abound in most casinos, but remember they live off your tips, so be generous, especially if the drink is free.
Most casinos offer free gaming lessons on the various card and table games. Check with the main casino cage or the guest services counter for schedules. These gaming lessons can be valuable in more ways than one. In addition to the knowledge you'll acquire, many casinos offer discount coupon books to people who take the time to learn how to play the games.
Most casinos make it really easy to get money. Again, laws vary from state to state, but most have automated teller machines, check cashing, and systems to take cash advances from your credit cards. My recommendation is to leave your bank cards, credit cards and check books at home, and only bring as much money as you're willing to lose -- most of the time, you will.
There are several ways to get change and chips in a casino. Most have attendants wheeling change carts around so you can get coins for the slots, or there are change booths sprinkled throughout. Gaming chips can be purchased at any table or the main cashier cage (ask an attendant where it is) and usually redeemed at the cashier cage only.
Always remember that gambling should not be looked at as a way to make money. If you view the slots and table games as a form of entertainment, you'll have a much better time (and will probably lose less money).
Most casinos have gaming clubs that allow you to earn points toward meals, shows or rooms by gambling in their casinos. You have to give away some of your personal information (like address and perhaps e-mail) but the junk mail you get can get you some deep discounts on future visits.
Most casinos will offer perks if you're dropping a lot of money at their tables or slots. Make sure somebody sees you spending money, and then casually ask if their show is any good or which restaurant is best. It's not a guarantee, but often they'll give you discount coupons or freebies just to keep you happy and gambling.
This Week's Trivia
Q: November marks the 14th annivesary of what Strip hotel? ANSWER
The Weekly Trivia Question is sponsored by the Online Memorabilia Museum at Vegas4Visitors.com
The Full Story
In Next Week's Column
Next week: The latest from Las Vegas.
Plus, don't forget to send me your questions about Las Vegas. I've got room for more, so send them in today!
Click here to go to the main page of Vegas4Visitors.com and see all of the fantastic resources Vegas4Visitors has to offer you when planning your next trip to Las Vegas.
Rick Garman is the head writer for Vegas4Visitors