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Casino Etiquette: The Unspoken Rules

Visiting a casino, how hard can it be? In truth, it’s not that difficult at all, you look the part, behave and act respectfully of those around and you shouldn’t face any problems. However, there are certain rules of etiquette you should be aware of.

Casino etiquette refers mainly to an unspoken code of conduct which members follow to make the experience much easier and more enjoyable for everyone. With many people choosing to play online at the ever-growing number of online casinos, one needs to think if casino etiquette still applies. It does but certain leeway is given for some forms of conduct while others are held up to higher levels of expectation. Find out more about online casino etiquette.

In a large casino, there will be a huge number of people enjoying a whole host of different games so the general rule is not to disturb them. You can join games and leave them as you wish but loud groups who are constantly drawing attention to themselves will be considered a nuisance and are likely to be removed.

Cash handling

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Remember, exchanging money for chips in a casino is nothing like making a purchase at a store. You should never hand cash to the dealer, everything must be laid out on the table in front of you and in clear view of security cameras. Remember, there’s a lot of money to be won and lost in a casino and people like to try and cheat the system. If you’re caught not following the rules, you’ll probably be asked to leave.

Avoid counting cash at the table, not only is this seen as exceptionally bad etiquette, it’s also an invitation to pickpockets and other undesirables who could be enjoying the space with you.

Cards

In some games, you can touch the cards and in some, you can’t, that’s just the way it is. The general rule to follow is that if the cards are dealt face-up, you are not to touch them under any circumstance, and if they are dealt face down, you may pick them up to look at them but they should not be removed from the table. If you take your cards even slightly over the felt, expect a warning, and if you continue to disregard advice you’ll be asked to leave the venue.

Of course, every card game has its own set of rules that you need to be aware of, so it’s certainly worth doing your homework. In poker for example, you’re advised to stay in your seat in order to prevent giving other players insights into your hand – it’s also a great way to make friends because you could be there for a while. This handy guide also details reasons you shouldn’t declare hands or act out of turn, along with a number of other helpful hints and tips for a successful game.

Signals

Sometimes a verbal signal is not enough because it’s something that can easily be disputed and could therefore affect the game. In blackjack for example, hand signals are essential so that the cameras can see exactly what’s going on. If you’re unsure, you’ll find all the blackjack advice you need in this How Stuff Works guide.

Dress

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Although nowadays this is by no means essential – although you should always check with the casino beforehand – many people still like to dress to impress.

The casino experience is all about the impression you make, if you turn up even in a casual blazer and shirt, you’ll look the part and will therefore fit right in with the regular clientele.

Although it has caused, and still causes, huge debates, if you fancy your hand at poker you may wish to don a pair of your favourite shades – it’s a method many pro players swear by.

Tipping

Finally, this is perhaps the most important rule; just like you’d tip your waiter at a restaurant if you went out for a meal, it’s commonplace to tip the dealer if you win. Remember, these guys don’t earn a lot and their job is pretty specialized, so the small tip you hand them will do a lot to boost their evenings’ earnings.

All of these rules are pretty easy to follow and will make your casino experience much more enjoyable if you stick to them.

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