The world’s best casinos offer more than just games – they are full of glamour, history, and luxury. From the iconic Bellagio in Las Vegas to the Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco, this go-to guide is here to help you discover the top casinos for every taste.

Merriam-Webster defines a casino as a building or large room used for social amusements, especially gambling. But when most people think of a casino, they picture the megaresorts in Las Vegas, dazzling with neon lights and excitement. The truth is that many casinos are small businesses, often owned by families or individuals. Others are run by large companies. Still others are owned by Native American tribes. In any case, casinos are all in the business of making money, and they rake in billions of dollars each year.

Most casino games are based on chance, although some involve a degree of skill. The house always has an advantage over players, which is called the house edge. The house advantage can be reduced by using strategies, but these are not foolproof. The house also collects a commission from some games, called the rake.

The atmosphere in a casino is designed around noise and light, with gamblers surrounded by other people, shouting encouragement or criticizing opponents. Alcoholic drinks are available at all times, and the environment is partylike. Security is also a high priority, with cameras constantly monitoring the floor and a separate room filled with banks of security monitors that can be adjusted to focus on suspicious patrons.