Tropical Gambling: A Guide To Casinos In The Philippines And Exotic Destinations
G.K Chesterton, Writer and Philosopher – “The traveler sees what he sees. The tourist sees what he has come to see.” The Philippines is an archipelago made up of over 7,000 islands located in the western Pacific Ocean. It's adorned with one of the world's longest coastlines with plenty of fine beaches that make it a superb travel destination.
Despite the damning effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has improved steadily with recorded visits of over 5 million tourists in 2023 alone! There is a repository of varied exotic experiences that cater to many different interests in The Philippines. From adventure lovers to casino enthusiasts, this beautiful country provides an outlet for everyone. But if you're unsure and can't quite figure out your way around, take this stroll with us as we explore what the nation offers.
Casino Gambling in The Philippines
The Philippines is an attractive destination for casino lovers thanks to the unique blend of tropical climate and rich history. Although gambling in Philippines is widespread, it’s regulated by PAGCOR, with about 50 casinos and slot halls operating within its jurisdiction. Casinos located in the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and Freeport, however, operate with different regulations and are available only to hotel guests.
Online gambling is also legal within the country, thus making it accessible to both residents and tourists. Players who want to experience the feeling of iGaming can see the newest Philippines sites and choose from several platforms. Tourists who however prefer gambling at land-based venues can check out any of these stunning casino resorts below:
Okada Manila Resort and Casino
With 44 hectares of scenic ocean view, Okada Manila Resort and Casino positions itself as one of the most unique places in the Philippines for gambling activity. The venue was opened at the end of 2016, thus making it one of the newest casinos in the area. The resort features:
- 993 hotel rooms
- A retreat spa
- The fountain
- A shopping area
- An indoor facility for kids, and
- An area of over 26,000 square meters allotted to gaming.
At the casino itself, lovers of slot machines are treated to a choice of more than 3,000 games. This, along with over 500 gaming tables, Okada Manila captures the essence of casino gambling and is a treat for casino lovers. If you intend to land some very lucrative jackpots in The Philippines, then this casino is a must-go.
Solaire Resort and Casino
This casino resort is famous for its sprawling architecture. The venue spreads over an impressive eight hectares featuring 800 hotel rooms, a 1,800-seat theatre, a spa and a nightclub. For casino enthusiasts, Solaire Resort and Casino fully caters to your deepest desires. You can try your luck playing any of the 1,600 slot machines or having a swell time at one of the 360 available gaming tables. To get the most out of your adventure in Philippines, be sure to check out casino game variations in baccarat, roulette, Sic Bo or Sabong cards. However, should poker be more your thing, Solaire is considered among the best places in Manila to play it.
City of Dreams
City of Dreams started up in 2014 at Entertainment City after gulping a $1.3 billion investment. It opened just after Solaire Resort but quickly became a favorite gambling destination for tourists. The highly extravagant facility features several five-star hotels like the Hyatt Regency, Nuwa, and Nobu Hotel.
Alongside the hotels are leisure centers, gaming zones, shopping malls, and nightclubs. Tourists who are interested in casino gambling will find over 1,600 slot machines and close to 300 gaming tables. One truly fascinating addition to this resort is the 170 electronic table games and an active poker tournament schedule for poker lovers.
"The role of electronic tables in particular has changed," says Roger Snow, senior vice president of games and card shuffling at Scientific Games. "Not too long ago, in the U.S. at least, e-tables were the low-rent district of table games."
Exotic Attractions in The Philippines
Tony Judt, Historian and Essayist – “My history writing was based on what I saw in strange, exotic places rather than just reading books.” Gambling in Philippines has steadily become a source of economic development, especially with the institution of casino resorts.
However, for some people, a fulfilling adventure in Philippines is still incomplete without taking in the natural sights. From beach relaxations and kayaking down relaxing waterways to kite-surfing, there's no shortage of exotic experiences to be had.
Here is an abridged look at some of the more naturally unique places in the Philippines to complete your tourist adventures:
The Twin Lagoon: This exotic location is made up of two water bodies separated by stunning limestone cliffs. The water is clean, quiet, and ideal for an enjoyable swim.
Chocolate Hills: These hills get their name from brown-colored grass found in the dry season. It is a naturally occurring destination that's listed as one of the top tourist attractions by the Philippine Tourism Authority.
Hinagdanan Cave: This formation is a naturally lighted cavern with large stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a deep lagoon. Unfortunately, visitors are no longer allowed to swim in the waters due to contamination. This however does not mean you won't enjoy yourself here. The area is well-serviced with plenty of souvenir shops for your tourist pleasure.
Barracuda Lake: Offering one of the most unique diving experiences in the world, Barracuda Lake is a natural wonder. It contains both salt and freshwater, with amazing limestone formations. Divers have reported a sensorial feeling of weightlessness while exploring the hot/cool depths.
Ariel's Point: This destination is renowned for its beautiful sandy beach and cliff-diving activity. The blue waters offer a relaxing tropical ambiance and feature an escape-from-the-city experience for tourists.
Will You Be Visiting The Philippines?
Along with Malaysia and Indonesia, The Philippines completes the list of three of the world's most megadiverse countries. There's a multitude of sensorial experiences to be had as you explore the exotic locations and casino resorts in The Philippines. Plan your next trip with The Philippines in mind and get ready to indulge in delectable world-class casinos. If you're lucky, you just might win that elusive big jackpot.
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