A casino is a place where people can play gambling-related games for real money. Typically, casinos add extras such as restaurants, free drinks, stage shows and other entertainment to attract customers. While these facilities are often associated with Las Vegas, the word is used to describe places throughout the world that offer similar activities.
Because of the large amounts of currency handled within a casino, both patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal. This can happen in collusion or independently; most casinos take a variety of measures to prevent this. Security cameras are the most basic, but many casinos employ other methods of tracking and catching suspicious activity. Table dealers, for instance, cannot accept cash from players and must have a higher-up person monitor the tables for any signs of cheating (palming, marking, switching dice or cards).
In addition to cameras and other technological monitoring, many casinos employ rules and regulations to keep their patrons safe. For example, some games have a minimum bet size; others require that a player keeps the card or dice visible at all times. Many casinos also have specific rules about cigarette smoking and drinking while gambling.
Casinos have a long history and are found all over the world. In the United States, they are most concentrated in Las Vegas, followed by Atlantic City and the Chicago area. There are also a number of Indian casinos, which are exempt from state anti-gambling laws.
