Nobody wants to be ‘that guy‘ at the casino, so make sure you discover the do’s and don’ts of casino etiquette before you hit the tables.
Everyone’s heard of Vegas or Macau: two cities that come to life as the sun sets and neon lights, blackjack, roulettes and thrill take over. Everyone, from elegantly dressed high-rollers to seasoned gamblers and curious tourists, gather around the jingling slot-machines, hoping to strike it lucky. However, for newcomers, casinos can be intimidating places, and only the more experienced casino-goers know how to behave with impeccable etiquette. Let’s face it, you don’t want to be that guy. So, in case nobody has told you before, here’s some casino do’s and don’ts to get you all set.
Do: Lean table etiquette. When it comes to the games themselves, there are certain etiquette rules to follow. For example, players are expected to wait until a hand is over before leaving the table, or wait for the dealer to signal that it’s their turn before making a move. It’s also considered bad form to touch other players’ chips or cards.
Do: Set a budget and stick to it. We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the thrill of the game and bet more than we can afford. But remember, the house always wins, so make sure you don’t go broke before the end of the night.
Don’t: Chase your losses. It’s like trying to catch a greased pig – it’s just not going to happen. If you find yourself losing more than you can handle, it’s time to take a break and rethink your strategy.
Do: Learn the rules of the games you want to play. Otherwise, you’ll end up looking like a deer in headlights, and not the cute kind. Take advantage of free lessons and tutorials to avoid embarrassing yourself at the table, but also bear in mind that some casinos have more first-timer friendly games on the go.
Don’t: Drink too much alcohol. We all know that alcohol and gambling go together like peanut butter and jelly (or at least, in movies they do), but too much of a good thing can lead to bad decisions. Stick to a moderate amount to keep your head clear and your wallet happy.
Do: Take breaks. You don’t want to end up like a statue sitting in the same spot for hours on end. Get up, stretch, and take a lap around the casino to keep your blood flowing and your mind fresh.
Don’t: Play games you don’t understand. It’s best to stick to what you know.
Don’t: Get caught up in superstitions. Sorry, but wearing your lucky underwear or rubbing your rabbit’s foot isn’t going to change the odds in your favor. Stick to the basics and rely on your own skills to win big.