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Monaco – Glamorous Casino Gaming on a Shoe-String

Many gamblers don't have Monaco on their gambling bucket list, simply because they have an idea that the Principality is far too expensive to play at, let alone visit. We're here to tell you, that though it's true that the city of Monte Carlo is expensive, it needn't break the bank. Depending on when you choose to go, it's not expensive to get there. Likewise, choose a hotel nearby up the French coast. Finally, even eating out needn't cost an arm and a leg if you stay away from the tourist traps

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Monaco: Glamorous Gaming on a Shoe-String

If you’re a gambling man, then there are a number of destinations within Europe that are probably on your bucket list. Probably the most famous by far as a casino destination is the capital city of Monaco, Monte Carlo. But in spite of this being one of the world’s premier destinations for gamblers, you’ll find that many European gamblers are more familiar with visiting Las Vegas in Nevada, than the tiny Principality situated on the sparkling Meditarrainien Sea.

A History of Glamour

Over many years, the American “city that never sleeps” has been idolised in movies, literature, and art. Whether you’re going there to gamble, want to see a spectacular show, or even to get married by an Elvis Presley impersonator, Sin City offers everything a gambler could possibly dream off. So it is really bizarre that many gamblers from Europe have chosen to visit Las Vegas over Monte Carlo. What is it that makes a 10 – 14 hour flight more inviting than the relatively short trip of just a couple of hours, the same gambler could make to Monaco from a European Airport? You might be better off staying at home and trying to win the jackpot online.

Monaco Isn’t Only For High Rollers

Probably the primary reason why Monaco and Monte Carlo are less visited by gamblers is that the location oozes exclusivity and even more so, elitism. As an example, there’s no other place on the planet that can turn a Hollywood movie actress, Grace Kelly, into an actual real-life princess. Too many players have heard of the glamour and glitz to be found in Monte Carlo. Meaning that in many ways, its reputation for the very wealthy has been off-putting for many prospective gamblers. The regular plebeian gambler assumes that Monte Carlo is really open to casino whales and high rollers.

So today, we thought we’d have a deeper dive into exactly how much money you need to bring with you to have a satisfying and exciting time in Monaco. Let’s assume that you want to play at the casinos to win the jackpot, and yet still try to enjoy yourselves on a budget. We think this is perfectly possible even during peak season. But it does require a bit of lateral thinking and more than a little ingenuity.

Flying Into Monaco

First thing’s first, how do we get to Monaco? Due to the island being so popular all year round, you’ll find little difference between high and low seasons as far as the prices go. May is by far the busiest month, with the Monaco Grand Prix taking place in the streets. You might imagine that flying to Monaco from any European destination is going to be more expensive during the Summer season. But you have to keep in mind that this price rise is offset by the sheer number of extra tourist flights that have been laid on. The best way to save money is to either book at the last minute, or conversely, book up to 11 months ahead.

Finding An Affordable Hotel In Monaco

Another issue of expenses is where you’re going to stay once you arrive. The first thing we should point out is that there are no cheap hotels in Monte Carlo. None at all! That’s why we recommend choosing a neighbouring town like Beausoleil or Cap d’Ail. There you will be able to find much more reasonable prices. As an added benefit the more you move up towards the French coast, the more you’ll have access to fantastic beaches. We’ve seen bed and breakfast places for as little as 18 euros a night. We suggest that you simply hire a car and then stay in a much less expensive area which can also be close to the beach. Even the budget hotels will have free internet. This will allow you to gamble online during your casino downtime. We suggest heading over to King Billy Casino for the best online experience. They have a massive selection of casino games for you to pass the time with .

If you are determined to stay in Monaco itself, then be prepared to pay at least £250 per night and that’s for the cheapest of the cheap. Probably the best name budget hotel is the Novotel Monte Carlo or the Port Palace Hotel. If you want to go up the food chain some more, then the minimum price will be around 250. At this price point, you should have no problems securing a hotel that will have its own restaurant and maybe even have access to its own private beach. For comparison’s sake, you would actually struggle to find a double room in the centre of London, Paris, New York, or Tokyo for the same price.

The Casinos Of Monaco

The main gambling hub of Monte Carlo is probably the Grand Casino. Keep in mind that there is actually an entrance fee for all gamblers and visitors of €10. Inside you’ll find three “salons” which each offer different gambling experiences. There are a total of 350 slots and around 35 gaming tables. As you might imagine, there’s a lot of money flying around and you’ll often come across celebrities playing. The whole atmosphere is pregnant with glamour, expectation and buzzes with excitement. Whereas the Grand Casino is by far the most elaborate and famous of the casinos in Monaco, you should put this as your first destination. Once you’ve played a few hands there, you should check out some other casinos. These include Le Casino Cafe De Paris, The Sun Casino and The Monte Carlo Bay Casino.

If you’re actually strolling the gaming floor in any Monte Carlo casino then your first lesson in how to save money is your games selection. You should really aim for games where you can win a decent amount of prize money. or at least increase your jackpot winning chances the more you play. But also stick with games where your betting doesn’t end after just a minute or so.

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The Table Games

One of the fastest casino games to play is roulette. We suggest you go for the low stakes, high percentage bets such as the red/ black or odd/even. These 50/50 odds beds are without doubt your best bet for playing with less money. Slots can also provide excellent entertainment for someone playing on a budget. But with these, it’s important that you choose a low stakes machine. This will allow you to sit for some hours without blowing through your whole bankroll. And you still have the chance of scoring a nice jackpot.

Well, if you really want to enjoy yourself and have a fully immersive experience for at least a few hours, we suggest you head over to the table jackpot games. With some of these, you need to pay a small entrance/table fee before you can sit down. If you’re on a budget, then why not hit up the blackjack tables. Just play casually with single bets. One of the main reasons you are sitting at the games table of a luxurious casino in Monte Carlo is not necessarily for the gambling experience. But more for the whole ambience of being in one of the most glamorous locations in the world.

Eating Out Needn’t Cost The Earth

One great thing about being in Monaco and in Monte Carlo is that when it comes to eating out, you needn’t have to apply for a second mortgage. There is one proviso. That is, you stay away from the main tourist paths. You can find delicious pizzerias and traditional bakeries, as well as fresh fruit markets. Just explore many of the smaller backstreet’s that lead down to the beach for some great eating options.

In Monte Carlo, you needn’t be always spending your money. Keep in mind that all the beaches are free. The Plage du Larvotto is a great place to hang out and people watch. In fact, apart from the effort of taking a walk on the beach promenade, you should just sit back. Order Aperol Spritz or a Pimm’s Number One. And let the hours pass by, as you relax under the sun. You can even fire up your portable phone and head over to play a few games at King Billy Casino. After all, they have a very tempting welcome bonus for all new players of 151% up to €/$500 plus 51 bonus spins!

How To Dress In Monaco

When it comes to dress code, you’ll find that the casinos may be quite relaxed. But you are expected to wear shoes as opposed to sandals. And a shirt as opposed to a T-shirt. For regular day to day life in the town, we suggest that you wear white. Even still, better from head to toe. You’ll fit in perfectly with the residents who actually live in the Principality. As far as getting around Monte Carlo, it’s small enough that you can walk everywhere.