Mankind has been gambling since prehistoric times. In the Middle Ages, it was a favourite pastime, and even King Henry VIII was said to be addicted. It has recently become a billion dollar industry, and the growth of internet and mobile devices have made gambling accessible to many more people.

Despite the rise of online casinos, traditional forms of gambling continue to be popular. Casinos are common the world over and most countries have lottery systems in place. Horse racing and other sports are also popular betting options.

World’s Biggest Casino

If you think Las Vegas is the gambling capital of the world, think again. The number one gambling hot spot with the world’s largest casino is Macau in China. The massive Venetian Macau Casino has to be seen to be believed. It dominates the Macau Cotai Strip and cost a staggering 2.4 billion US dollars to build. Millions of tourists flock there each year, and it’s the only region in China where gambling is legal.
According to CNN Macau’s gambling industry dwarfs Vegas.

Spanish Lottery

Millions of people play the lottery each day all over the world, but none do it quite as well as the Spanish. El Gordo is not just a lottery game; it is a national institution sending the entire country into a frenzy each Christmas. El Gordo is often billed as the biggest lottery in the world, paying over €3 billion in prizes and creating more lottery winners in one day than any other. It is estimated that three-quarters of the Spanish population participate.

When you play the lottery in Spain, you do not select numbers in the traditional way. Instead, you purchase a ticket with a five digit number printed on it. The draw brings the country to a standstill, with millions glued to their television sets in homes and bars. The draw is conducted with the help of school children who sing out the winning numbers. There are many options if you want to play the lottery online such as those to be found here www.lottery24.com

Floating Casinos

Do you like the idea of combining gambling with the holiday of a lifetime? Until recently, casino games were just another cruise ship activity, alongside other diversions such as live shows and spa treatments. Pay-outs were low and most people participating were novices playing for fun. This is changing as more cruise line operators offer Casino Cruises for those who like to combine gambling with a relaxing holiday at sea. On board, you will find a mini Las Vegas, dedicated to gambling, with all the best casino games, slots and bingo.

Traditional forms of gambling are still hugely popular. The lottery is played throughout the world, and super casinos continue to be built in various locations. Specialist holidays such as cruises and gambling resort package tours are likely to become more popular as people look to combine a holiday with their special interest.

Internet and mobile gambling might be growing in popularity, but there will always be a place for traditional gambling. Nothing can quite beat the buzz of a real life casino or the thrill when you realise the lottery ticket in your hand is a jackpot winner.