Responsible gaming

Where we stand

This guide exists to describe hotels, not to promote gambling. Every property on our list is worth the trip without setting foot in its casino. If you decide to play anyway, a handful of habits help keep it harmless.

Habits that help

• Play only if you have reached the legal age in the place you are visiting; it differs between destinations, and staff will ask for identification.
• Choose an amount you can comfortably lose before you walk in, and leave bank cards upstairs.
• Decide in advance how long you will stay and step away for regular breaks.
• Never try to win back what you have lost, and never borrow to keep going.
• Avoid gambling when you are tired, upset or have been drinking.

Signs to watch for

Going over your limit, keeping your gambling secret from people close to you, or feeling restless and irritable when you are not playing can all point to a developing problem. Many casinos run voluntary self-exclusion programmes; guest services can explain how to join.

Help that costs nothing

• Gambling Therapy — free online advice and support in several languages, available worldwide: gamblingtherapy.org
• Gamblers Anonymous — peer-led recovery meetings in many countries: gamblersanonymous.org
• Gam-Anon — support for family members and friends affected by someone else's gambling: gam-anon.org
• Your local helpline — most countries offer a free, confidential gambling helpline; a doctor or local health service can direct you to it.