Responsible gaming

Gaming should stay a game

A night at the tables can be a fun part of a casino hotel stay. It stops being fun when it costs more than you planned, takes more time than you meant to give it, or starts to affect your mood, money or relationships. Karma Casa covers casinos as entertainment only.

Know the entry age

Minimum ages differ around the world. In the destinations we cover, casino entry is generally 21 in the United States, Singapore and Macau, and 18 in Monaco, Australia and the Bahamas. Some places add other rules, such as entry levies for residents or bans on local citizens. Always carry photo ID.

Simple habits that help

• Decide on a spending limit before you go, and leave your cards in the room safe.
• Set a time limit and use an alarm. Casinos rarely have clocks or windows.
• Never try to win back losses by raising your bets.
• Take regular breaks, eat properly and keep alcohol moderate.
• Treat any money spent as the price of entertainment, not an investment.

Warning signs

It may be time to step back if you are spending more than you can afford, borrowing to gamble, hiding how much you play, feeling anxious when you can’t gamble, or chasing losses. Most casinos offer self-exclusion programmes, and staff can explain how to join one.

Where to find help

Free, confidential support is available. These services were correct at the time of writing, so check their websites for current details.

If you are in immediate danger or feel unable to keep yourself safe, contact your local emergency number.