Gambling is, without a doubt, one of the most quickly evolving and vibrating entertainment industries in the world. Passionate players are excited spectators witnessing the phenomenon in awe. Why wouldn't they be? Every time a new casino is released in the online environment, gamblers can enjoy hundreds of new exciting games. Plus, they can take advantage of the excellent welcome bonus packages that today's virtual casinos are known for.
Of course, if you are not new to the gambling scene, this might not sound like a surprise for you. However, what you might not have known is the fact that there are still countries that outlaw gambling, either online or offline. Gamblers there need to be constantly on the lookout for new legal loopholes in order to quench their thirst. Oftentimes, they will either travel far distances to gambling destinations or use mobile apps and casino websites that welcome players from their country. People who live in Monaco are not able to gamble in Monaco, as this activity is exclusively reserved for tourists.
If you are interested to learn more interesting facts about casinos worldwide, grab your favourite cup of coffee and enjoy your reading.
Fact #1: Gambling Saved FedEx From Bankruptcy
Back in 1973, the FedEx owner was in a pickle. The company was barely making any profit and it was on the brink of bankruptcy. Luckily, its owner knew how to play Blackjack. He went to a casino in Las Vegas and placed a single wager worth $5,000 on a game of 21. He managed to win $27,000 and helped the company get on its feet again. A few years later, they were generating their first profits. The rest is history.
Fact #2: A Taxi In London Hosts The Smallest Casino In The World
Have you heard of the Grosvenor Casino? It is one of the most peculiar casinos in the world as it is located on the back seat of a taxi in London. It features a fully functional gaming table, along with a dealer and a TV set that plays sports non-stop. The casino donates its profits to charity whenever someone asks for a ride in the city. It is also possible to join a casino without paying any extra money.
Fact #3: The First Sandwich Was Made In a Casino
You might have heard of the Earl of Sandwich and you probably know the legend according to which he invented the sandwich. But did you know all of that happened while he was inside a casino, enjoying his poker game, and trying hard to avoid having to leave the table to eat? He apparently asked his servants to bring him a piece of meat between two slices of bread, and this is how the first sandwich was made. Thank you, Earl!
Fact #4: The Mega Moolah Game Won The Guinness World Record For The Largest Jackpot
The Guinness World Record title for the largest jackpot payout in a game of slots is $20,066,800 and it was won by Jon Heywood. Since he was a big fan of the Mega Moolah game and slot games in general, Jon took advantage of his passion, persevered in his gameplay and finally hit the big jackpot. We bet he didn't see that one coming!
Fact #5: Slot Machines Used To Dispense Fruity Chewing Gum
You're probably familiar with the fruit pictures you can constantly see on slot machines today. They are often times referred to as fruity slots. But did you know that old slot machines in the 1880s used to actually dispense chewing gum with fruit flavourings? The same slot machines also dispensed tokens that players could exchange for drinks or cigars.
Fact #6: A WWII Veteran Won $25 Million At Slots
Elmer Sherman first won $4.6 million at a slot machine in 1989. He didn't stop there. He managed to win a second huge jackpot in 2005. The jackpot was worth $21.1 million and it comes to show that big money is not only made at the table games. Plus, you can win at any age, and perseverance is one of the most important skills to show when it comes to gambling.
Fact #7: Card Counting Is Legal
However, card counting could very easily get you thrown out of a casino. That is if you're not very subtle about it. Ben Affleck was actually banned from a casino a few years ago because he started counting cards and he was more than obvious about what he was doing. If this ever happens to you, you may be asked to leave the casino or choose a different game to play. Don't worry, you can still satisfy your desire to play your favourite games by using an online venue instead. No one is going to stop you from pausing an entire game of blackjack in order to try and count the remaining cards in the deck. Plus, there will be plenty of opportunities to play free of charge using free casino money or the practice mode option.
Fact #8: The Las Vegas Strip Is In Paradise
Most of the 4.2 mile Vegas strip is literally located in the neighbouring town of Paradise, not Las Vegas as most people wrongfully think. The strip includes the most popular hotels and casinos there and it represents one of the most popular tourist destinations on Earth. If you have never been to Sin City, it is definitely an experience we recommend you have.