Last year, it was reported that Japan officially legalized the gaming industry — a move that was both shocking and exciting, considering the country’s more conservative stance.
As far as travel destinations go, few beat the excitement and luxury that come with casino hotels. Casinos always bring to mind images of James Bond-esque types, dressed to the nines with a drink in hand. This level of luxury is what drives tourists to visit casinos all around the world, making them the perfect getaway for people who want a totally different experience.
New growth in Japan
Last year, it was reported that Japan officially legalized the gaming industry — a move that was both shocking and exciting, considering the country’s more conservative stance. Prime Minister Abe Shinzo approved laws to build what’s being known as integrated resorts, where casinos will be combined with other entertainment facilities such as hotels and venues. With a projected market of $18 billion a year, it’s no surprise that the likes of MGM International are interested in taking part. Neighboring companies like Hong Kong’s Melco Genting Singapore Ltd. have also expressed interest.
Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama are the top picks for housing these integrated resorts — a smart choice considering these three cities remain huge travel hubs in the country. Japan is planning to limit the number of locals who can partake in these resorts in an effort to curb the potentially negative effects that these casinos can bring.
Macau is still a big player while other destinations open up
Macau is the top casino travel destination by far, held equal to (and sometimes even surpassing) Las Vegas. The casino industry continues to remain strong here, especially as it forms the bedrock of Macau’s tourism.
Other locations, however, are gearing themselves up to be casino destinations. There are four new luxury hotels slated to open in scenic Cyprus, with the City of Dreams Mediterranean casino opening in Limassol. Scoop Empire also lists the Middle East as an emerging destination, with Dubai topping the list when it comes to casino-related travel. Lebanon’s Casino du Liban is also a noteworthy option for those who want to go someplace outside of Dubai’s glitz and glamor.
Online casinos are equally as popular
For those who can’t travel to Macau or Las Vegas, there's always the online option.
The Merkle estimates that the global online gaming industry will draw in about $60 billion annually, with the figure expected to rise to $94 billion by 2024. It's no surprise that more and more people are trying their hand at online gaming, especially because of its accessibility. Case in point, Asian gaming website Expat Bets' guide to Thai casino culture highlights how locals normally have to travel all the way to the Cambodian border, which is around 3 hours' travel away from Bangkok, just to play. But with the rise of digital devices and online gaming, more locals are able to experience the excitement of a casino from the comforts of their own homes. Indeed, Southeast Asia is a current hub for online gaming, but it looks like the rest of Asia is catching up. Across the globe, AMA Research on online gambling shows that this is the fastest-growing form of gambling — a development that coincides with the emergence of virtual technology and other innovations.
All in all, these figures highlight the positive growth in the casino industry as a whole. So favorable is the casino market growth that The Motley Fool even suggests buying stock dividends at the Las Vegas Sands and Wynn Resorts. The growth of these major players hints at the global expansion of the casino market as a whole. As more integrated resorts continue to be built, expect casino-related travel to be on many tourists’ itineraries.
