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Miami Herald
12 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Top casinos globally by visitor reviews
The top five land-based casinos in the world, based on TripAdvisor ratings, each offer a unique blend of gaming, glamor, and local flavor. OLBG explores their location highlights, signature features, and authentic guest impressions. Gaming enthusiasts and jet-setters alike will find that the world's top casinos are far more than mere gambling halls - they are entertainment powerhouses and cultural landmarks. From ultra-modern resorts in Asia to historic European gambling salons, these casinos offer luxury, excitement, and one-of-a-kind experiences that attract millions of visitors each year. 1. The Venetian Macao - Macau, China Location and Highlights : The Venetian Macao stands on Macau's Cotai Strip as the largest casino in the world, with 550,000 square feet of gaming space across four themed gaming areas. Opened in 2007, this 39-story mega-resort was modelled after its Las Vegas counterpart, complete with Venice's iconic canals and architecture. Visitors can glide in gondolas along indoor canals under painted blue skies, shop in 350+ luxury boutiques, and enjoy global cuisine in over 30 restaurants. The Venetian's Cotai Arena hosts major concerts and sporting events, enhancing its appeal beyond the casino floor. Unique Features and Experiences : Often dubbed the "crown jewel of Macau's gaming scene," The Venetian Macao immerses guests in Italian Renaissance ambience on a colossal scale. Its Grand Canal Shoppes and replica St. Mark's Square create a romantic atmosphere, while 3,000 luxury suites cater to high-rollers and vacationers alike. Family-friendly entertainment like street performer shows and the indoor gondola rides make it more than just a gambler's haven. Notably, the Venetian drew over 30 million visitors annually in its heyday, underscoring its global allure. TripAdvisor Says: "Venetian is perhaps the most picturesque of casinos … They offer different alternatives to enjoy so it ranks as the best." Many travelers marvel at the resort's lavish décor and lively atmosphere - it's a must-see even for non-gamblers. One reviewer noted that "the scale and detail of the Venetian Macao are simply breathtaking, making every visitor feel like they've been transported to Italy." 2. Bellagio - Las Vegas Location and Highlights : Rising from the Las Vegas Strip, the Bellagio is world-renowned for its elegance and the iconic Bellagio Fountains - a choreographed water show on an 8-acre lake. Opened in 1998 by legendary developer Steve Wynn, Bellagio brought a new level of luxury to Vegas with its Italian Lake Como inspiration and art-adorned interiors. The resort features a 116,000-square foot casino, a poker room famous for high-stakes games, and an on-site Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. Its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens transform seasonally into stunning floral spectacles that attract millions of visitors. Unique Features and Experiences : The Bellagio epitomizes Las Vegas glamour - from its Dale Chihuly glass flower ceiling in the lobby to Michelin-starred dining (such as Picasso and Le Cirque). It's home to Cirque du Soleil's "O" aquatic show, performed in a custom theater and considered one of the most spectacular shows in Vegas. High-rollers appreciate "Bobby's Room," an elite poker enclave, while casual visitors simply enjoy the sumptuous atmosphere. The resort's dancing fountains, which perform every 30 minutes in the evenings, have become an attraction in their own right, enchanting over 80% of Vegas's 40+ million annual visitors. Bellagio's commitment to luxury and art (it even once housed an $88 million fine art collection) sets it apart on the Strip. TripAdvisor Says: "The atmosphere was vibrant, the staff were friendly and we had a fantastic time. We'll definitely be returning - highly recommended," one guest raved. Visitors frequently praise Bellagio's lively casino floor and stunning décor, noting that the "rooms are elegant, the casino is lively, and the Roman-inspired architecture is stunning" - a nod to its classically beautiful design and ambiance that elevates the Vegas experience. 3. Casino de Monte-Carlo - Monte Carlo, Monaco Location and Highlights : Nestled in the heart of Monaco, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a legendary temple of chance that has been synonymous with European glamour since 1863. This historic casino, with its Belle Époque architecture designed by Charles Garnier (of Paris Opera fame), overlooks the Mediterranean and is surrounded by the elegant Monte Carlo Square and gardens. Inside, gilded halls and frescoed ceilings set the stage for classic games like roulette, chemin de fer, and baccarat. The casino famously helped save the Grimaldi principality's finances in the 19th century and has since become a playground for aristocrats and the international elite. Unique Features and Experiences : Monte-Carlo offers a uniquely exclusive experience - locals are not permitted to gamble in the casino, so the clientele is composed of international visitors, many dressed to the nines. The venue's Salon Privés host high-stakes tables in secluded luxury, and the adjacent Opera House (within the same complex) adds cultural cachet. The James Bond connection also enhances its appeal: Scenes from Casino Royale and other Bond films were set here, cementing its image as a backdrop for espionage and elegance. Though relatively small in size, the Casino de Monte-Carlo exudes a timeless sophistication that continues to draw about 2 million visitors a year for its ambience and history. TripAdvisor Says: "A stunningly opulent building, with visitors allowed to take photos and wander the private gambling salon before 2 p.m.," notes one reviewer, emphasizing that the casino itself is worth a tour. Another visitor wrote that entering Monte-Carlo "feels straight out of a James Bond movie … a truly beautiful building with an even more beautiful interior." The consensus: Even if you're not betting, the sheer luxury and Old World charm make it a must-visit in Monaco. 4. Marina Bay Sands - Singapore Location and Highlights: An architectural icon of modern Singapore, Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is an integrated resort known for its three soaring hotel towers topped by the SkyPark - a boat-shaped rooftop park with the world's highest infinity pool. Opened in 2010, MBS transformed Singapore's skyline and tourism scene. Its casino spans four levels with 600+ gaming tables and 2,300 slot machines, and the resort also encompasses a luxury mall, two theaters, a museum, celebrity-chef restaurants, and over 2,200 hotel rooms. MBS has become a must-see attraction, helping Singapore draw tens of millions of visitors annually (the resort alone welcomed over 45 million visitors per year pre-pandemic). Unique Features and Experiences: Beyond the bustling casino, Marina Bay Sands offers a 360-degree experience. Take in panoramic views of the city from the SkyPark observation deck or swim in the famous rooftop infinity pool (available to hotel guests) - an experience on many travelers' bucket lists. Onsite is the ArtScience Museum (shaped like a lotus) and constant entertainment ranging from Las Vegas–style revues to international concerts. The Shoppes at MBS feature high-end brands and even boat rides on an indoor canal. As a result, MBS seamlessly blends gaming with leisure and culture. The casino itself is noted for its strict entry protocols (locals must pay a levy, a unique Singaporean regulation) and a vast, column-free design that feels both grand and accessible. TripAdvisor Says: "First impressions: The casino is enormous, spanning four floors. The check-in process was stringent but fair," reports one visitor. Gamblers appreciate the extensive game variety and modern ambiance, while non-gamblers are drawn to the surrounding attractions. Another review highlighted that "even if you don't gamble, Marina Bay Sands is worth visiting for the skyline views and the incredible rooftop pool - it's luxury redefined." In short, MBS offers something for everyone, from high-stakes thrills to family-friendly fun. 5. Wynn Palace - Macau, China Location and Highlights: Opened in 2016 on Macau's Cotai Strip, Wynn Palace is a newer entrant that quickly set high standards for luxury. This Wynn Resorts property is a 28-story integrated resort themed around opulence and whimsy - famous for its Performance Lake, an 8-acre lake with dazzling fountain shows, and the SkyCab gondolas that ferry guests over the water. Inside, Wynn Palace features 424,000 square feet of casino space with an emphasis on high-end gaming (hundreds of table games and slots), over 1,700 lavish hotel rooms, fine art installations, and some of Macau's top dining (including Michelin-starred restaurants). Wynn Palace has garnered numerous Forbes Five-Star awards, reflecting its exceptional service and facilities. Unique Features and Experiences: Wynn Palace is often described as "arguably the most beautiful hotel in the world" by its creator Steve Wynn, and it shows: The resort is adorned with over-the-top floral sculptures (like a carousel made of flowers), rare art pieces, and extravagant floral displays by Preston Bailey that change seasonally. Guests can ride a SkyCab cable car (free to the public) into the resort, offering a great view of the fountain shows - a truly unique "arrival" experience in the casino world. The casino itself caters to VIPs with exclusive gaming salons and a sophisticated atmosphere, while also welcoming casual players. Wynn Palace's combination of luxury retail, sumptuous spa (the largest in Macau), and visual delights makes it a standout even in Macau's competitive casino market. TripAdvisor Says: "Wynn Palace is lauded for its luxurious and elegant atmosphere, which guests find grand and inviting." Travellers frequently mention the impeccable service and palatial décor, whether in the suites or on the casino floor. One reviewer stated, "The moment you step onto the SkyCab and glide into Wynn Palace, you feel like royalty. The casino is spotless and the surroundings are pure luxury." It's clear that Wynn Palace has won over visitors looking for the ultimate upscale experience in Macau. Annual Visitor Numbers Comparison Table To put these destinations in perspective, here's a side-by-side look at the approximate annual visitor numbers for each of the top 10 casinos (latest available figures). This reflects the immense draw these resorts have as global attractions: (Note: Visitor numbers are approximate and refer to pre-2025 estimates; actual figures can fluctuate year by year. They include total resort visitors, not only casino patrons.) From the glittering skyline of Las Vegas to the cultural crossroads of Macau, these five casinos represent the pinnacle of what a gaming destination can offer. Each profile above illustrates that a great casino is not just about gambling - it's about the experience. Whether it's watching the Bellagio fountains dance to music, feeling the history in Monte Carlo's salons, enjoying a day at Sentosa before hitting the slots, or taking in Venetian Macao's over-the-top recreations of Italy, these casinos appeal to a broad spectrum of visitors. Gamblers will find top-notch tables and jackpots, tourists will find spectacles and attractions, and cultural travelers will find architecture, art, and stories that give each casino a distinct sense of place. In 2025, the world's top casinos are truly entertainment resorts that reflect their cities' character: the ambition of Singapore, the heritage of Monaco, the extravagance of Vegas, the innovation of Macau, and beyond. They've become bucket-list destinations in their own right. Whether you're an avid gamer looking for the next big thrill, a tourist seeking excitement and luxury, or a culture buff curious about the lore (and lure) of these famous halls, the casinos on this list promise an unforgettable journey. This story was produced by OLBG and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
Pink Villa
17 hours ago
- Business
- Pink Villa
Sneak peek into 140-year-old historic Mumbai mansion and among the first with electricity, lavish decor, oil-painted ceilings
Jamsetji Tata was an Indian entrepreneur and philanthropist who founded India's largest conglomerate, Tata Group. He is widely regarded as the 'Father of Indian Industry'. Jamsetji Tata played a major role in the industrial development of India. Here's what his Mumbai mansion looks like. Exploring Jamsetji Tata's Mumbai mansion, a historic property and one of the first in the city to have electricity An Instagram user named Nishant Sonavane posted a video of Jamsetji Tata's mansion located at Waudby Road, Mumbai. The clip shows the outside view of the heritage mansion, called Esplanade House. According to the user, the mud-colored architectural gem boasts a stunning Renaissance Revival Design, a 19th-century architectural and decorative style inspired by the Italian Renaissance period (14th-17th centuries). Built in 1885, Jamsetji Tata's mansion was among the first properties to have electricity in Mumbai. The house also has concealed wiring and an elevator. Gold-gilded decor, oil-painted ceilings and more Jamsetji Tata's Mumbai mansion is decorated with lavish interiors. The house features gold-gilded decor with ivory inlays, and the ceilings are painted with oil. Saint Bernard dog sculpture at the entry gate Esplanade House has beautiful gardens, marble fountains, and statues which add a unique touch to the mansion. The historical gem also has a brown-colored Saint Bernard dog sculpture installed at the entry, right above its main entrance. Jamsetji Tata's Mumbai mansion, Esplanade House, is not open to the public. Its beautiful decor says it all about the rich heritage in the city. It is also proof that the late industrialist was truly a visionary. A brief about Jamsetji Tata Born on March 3, 1839, Jamsetji Tata hailed from a Zoroastrian Parsi family of priests in Navsari, Gujarat. He was the first child and only son of Nusserwanji Tata. The late industrialist worked in his father's company until he was 29 years old. His father got him enrolled in Elphinstone College in Mumbai. Jamsetji Tata graduated from the institution as a 'green scholar' in 1858. He commissioned the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai in 1903. He was also the founder of Jamshedpur city. He contributed towards the establishment of the Indian Institute of Science, Tata Steel and Tata Power.
Euronews
18 hours ago
- Euronews
British woman returns Italian Renaissance painting stolen 52 years ago
Antonio Solario's 'Madonna and Child', a long-sought after Italian Renaissance masterpiece has finally returned home to the Civic Museum of Belluno after more than 50 years. But, in order for it to complete its journey, the painting's British owner, Barbara de Dozsa, needed a lot of convincing that it was "the right thing to do" as the 16th-century oil painting was stolen from the museum in 1973. De Dozsa, who inherited the canvas from her late ex-husband, had initially refused to return it, despite it being on Interpol's stolen art database ever since the heist. She was eventually persuaded to hand it back by Christopher Marinello, a lawyer and founder of Art Recovery International, who specialises in the recovery of looted art. 'When it comes to returning stolen art and doing the right thing, I can be annoyingly persistent', said Marinello, who has been widely described as the art world's Sherlock Holmes. The artwork's unconditional release was ultimately 'Barbara de Dozsa's decision to make, and she chose wisely', he said in a statement. Marinello's family originated from the Veneto region, where Belluno is located. He handled the negotiations with de Dozsa on a pro bono basis. 'Her kindness has restored my faith in people who unknowingly come into possession of stolen or looted works of art.' Antonio Solario was trained in Venice and worked during the first two decades of the 16th century. His work is exhibited across Europe, including at the National Gallery in London. The Civic Museum of Belluno originally acquired his 'Madonna and Child' in 1872 among other works that were stolen a century later. De Dosza's former husband, the late Baron de Dozsa, bought the painting in 1973, soon after the robbery. Not knowing where it was from, he brought it back to his Norfolk estate in England. Its whereabouts were unknown until Barbara de Dozsa tried to sell it at a regional auction house in 2017. She claimed ownership based on the UK Limitations Act of 1980, which states that a person who buys stolen goods can be recognised as the legal owner after six years, if the purchase was unrelated to the theft. 'Nonsense', said Marinello, who claimed the painting's listing on stolen art databases meant it could 'never be sold, exhibited, or even transported without the risk of being seized.' Une publication partagée par MUBEL Musei Civici di Belluno (@museo_belluno) Belluno welcomed the Solario's ultimate return with joy. 'Today is a day of celebration', the town's mayor Oscar de Pellegrin said in an Instagram post. In a statement, the museum praised Barbara de Dozsa's 'good faith.' The Civic Museum of Belluno will exhibit the 'Madonna and Child' until 27 July. It will then be removed to undergo restoration work.
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Daily Record
'Beautiful' Scottish Wetherspoons that's 'like a stately home' named UK's most beloved pub
The pub's stunning design and handy location near top attractions and a major station makes it popular with tourists and locals alike. A grand former bank -turned-Wetherspoon pub in the heart of Edinburgh has been named not just Scotland's favourite Spoons, but the most popular boozer in Britain. Analysis from Google Maps put The Standing Order at the top of the list of the UK's most beloved pubs. The research was based on Google rating and the number of reviews with four stars or higher. And, with a 4.2-star average from more than 11,599 reviews, the vast and ornate George Street pub was declared the winner. According to the Express, pleased punters lavished The Standing Order with praise for its opulent-looking interior, affordable drink options, and spacious seating areas. One Google reviewer wrote: 'This is probably the nicest Wetherspoons I've ever sat in. I believe that it was once voted best pub in [Britain]? The inside is huge! The ceilings are beautiful.' Another chimed in: 'A classic Wetherspoons pub with a great selection of really cheap drinks. There is a large amount of seating and this is a great spot for a drink when in a large group.' Housed in a Grade A listed building, The Standing Order was formerly the Union Bank of Scotland, and traces of its banking past remain, including a walk-in safe that visitors can still see today. Designed by renowned Scottish architect David Bryce between 1874 and 1878, the pub retains a striking neo-classical look with grand proportions across three floors. Its marble pillars, gold chandeliers and decorative paneling have led many to compare it to a grand estate. One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: 'The high ceilings and ornate cornice with huge marble pillars make this place like visiting a stately home.' The pub's central location just a short walk from St Andrews Square, the National Gallery, and Edinburgh Castle makes it a popular spot with tourists. And it sits just beside Edinburgh Waverley train station, which means it is also a convenient stop for travellers and commuters alike. The Google Maps poll saw Wetherspoons dominate the rankings, taking ten of the top 20 spots and sweeping the top three. Coming in second was The Velvet Coaster in Blackpool, while third place went to The Counting House in Glasgow, another converted bank, but this time in the Italian Renaissance style. According to Google Maps researchers, the rankings were calculated by examining venues with large numbers of reviews and consistently high scores. The list, compiled earlier this year, reflects customer sentiment and popularity across the country's pub scene Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. . And Standing Order is not the only capital pub to be making headlines. Another historic Edinburgh landmark was recently named Scotland's best Wetherspoon in a separate study. The Caley Picture House, a former cinema turned pub, claimed the top spot in Scotland and third place overall in a ranking of more than 800 Wetherspoons across the UK. The research, conducted by Suomicasinot, analysed thousands of customer reviews to identify the top-rated venues in Tim Martin's vast pub empire.
Boston Globe
7 days ago
- Boston Globe
‘Here lies Florence, dead of overtourism'
Summer crowds overwhelm the Ponte Vecchio, Florence's most iconic bridge, famed for the goldsmith workshops and stores that line both sides of it. Stefano Morelli 'I saw it gradually change,' Amato says, 'until in the last few years it has become only for tourists and is an eating place. Everyone has something to eat in their hands.' Florentines are nowhere to be found. Shops selling traditional Florentine goods — ceramics, leather goods, gilt frames — have all but vanished from the city's historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get The Gavel A weekly SCOTUS explainer newsletter by columnist Kimberly Atkins Stohr. Enter Email Sign Up Indeed, the center contains some 2,000 bars, sandwich shops, and restaurants. Selfie-takers prove they were at TripAdvisor's most-reviewed restaurant in the world, All'antico Vinaio. Stefano Morelli Along the Via dei Neri, one of Florence's most flocked-to streets, tourists sit anywhere they can, even on historic monuments, with sandwiches from the nearby All'antico Vinaio. Locals complain of their disrespect, noise, and litter. Stefano Morelli Across Europe, tourism has surpassed pre-pandemic levels, sparking a backlash against roller bags and the people who bang them along picturesque cobblestoned streets. Just ask the tourists But for tourists per capita, no European destination beats the seat of the Italian Renaissance. Travelers at Florence's Santa Maria Novella Station. Some 59 million train goers pass through the station annually. Stefano Morelli Tourists flank the Loggia dei Lanzi in central Florence, home of such statues as "The Rape of the Sabine Women" and "Perseus with the Head of Medusa." Stefano Morelli Florence Mayor Sara Funaro has taken to social media to address the problems that overtourism has created. 'Florence is the first city in Italy in terms of density of tourism … at least 25 tourists per resident,' she wrote on Facebook. The city center, which is less than 2 square miles, gets 10.5 million visitors a year. They far outnumber the residents. Florence today has a population of 361,000, down 148,000 since 2000, according to Chiara Agnoletti, a coauthor of a recent report on the city for Tuscany's Regional Institute for Economic Planning. A tourist snags a rare quiet moment in one of Florence's four "Fotoautomatica" booths, where a 2-euro coin buys a strip of analog photos. Stefano Morelli The analog photo booths are a popular tourist attraction. Stefano Morelli 'Before, living here was a privilege,' says Alida Fenizi, an architect who lives on the centrally located Via dei Neri. 'Today, we are invaded by tourists. Both in the streets and in the houses. In my apartment building, there are only short-term rentals.' Tourists swarm the Fontana del Porcellino in the Piazza del Mercato in central Florence. It is said that rubbing the wild boar's snout confers luck. Stefano Morelli Tourists in the Piazza Santa Croce, where the historic Calcio Storico Fiorentino — a full-contact sport that mixes rugby, boxing, and wrestling — took place in June, drawing thousands of spectators. Stefano Morelli In 2012, there were only 150 short-term rentals advertised online in Florence. Today, there are some 12,000. 'Even if business is good, to live in a Florence with fewer and fewer Florentines is to lose a sense of community,' says Stefano Colovicchi, a greengrocer near Piazza Santo Spirito, a neighborhood opposite the city center on the other side of the Arno. The average tiny two-room apartment in Florence is one of the most expensive in Italy: just over €1,100 ($1,290) a month, excluding expenses like water and utilities. The average monthly salary of a clerk or waiter in Florence is €1,400 ($1,640). Living in the city center is out of reach,' says Diletta Fiaschetti, who works at the U-Boat watch store on the Ponte Vecchio. Her thoughts are echoed by Paolo Monteverde of the Florentine University Union, who says, 'The city is only for rich people and tourists.' The average monthly cost of a student's rented room has jumped 59 percent since 2021 to €618 ($723). Roberto Pisoni, a student, says, 'Many people give up studying in Florence because of high rent prices.' Tour groups pause in the Piazza Santa Croce. The likes of Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli are buried nearby. Stefano Morelli A new citywide resolution establishes a municipal registry for temporary rentals, valid for five years, and blocks new rentals in the UNESCO area. Residents who rent their apartments in violation of the new regulations risk fines of €10,000. The goal is to reverse the overtourism trend in three years. Meanwhile, some of the Florentines who have stayed have chosen to fight. 'Salviamo Firenze x Viverci' — 'Let's save Florence and live there' — a campaign to counter the rampant spread of Airbnbs and the proliferation of key boxes for short-term renters in the city, staged a funeral at the grand opening of an investor-owned complex, The Social Hub, on the Via Belfiore in the city center in January. 'Here lies Florence,' the protesters' plaque read. 'Dead of overtourism.' Some tourists manage to get away from it all. A picnic in the Giardino delle Rose — the Rose Garden — below the Piazzale Michelangelo. Stefano Morelli
