When most people think of a casino, they picture one of the large resorts in Las Vegas, a place rife with neon lights and fun. However, a casino is much more than just a place to gamble. Merriam-Webster defines a casino as “a building or room used for social amusements, especially gambling.”
As with any business, a casino’s success depends on keeping its patrons happy and spending money. To that end, the most successful casinos have an extensive system of comps (free goods or services). Large bettors are often given free rooms, meals and limo service to and from airports. The amount of money spent at the table or slot machines is also considered, but even lesser bettors can receive hotel rooms, food, drinks and cigars while gambling.
Casinos are a major source of income in many countries. In the United States, they have been growing in popularity since Atlantic City opened its first casino in 1978 and as a result of several states changing their laws during the 1980s to permit them. Increasingly, Native American tribes have also been opening casinos on their reservations.
Because of the large amounts of money that are handled within a casino, both patrons and employees may be tempted to cheat or steal, either in collusion or independently. As such, most casinos spend a significant amount of time and money on security. Cameras placed throughout the casino allow personnel to watch every table, doorway and window.