Casino tourism for beginners in Canada: What every first-time visitor should know
Are you looking to visit the Canadian casino scene for the first time? Read on to discover some vital things you should know before embarking on casino tourism in Canada
KNOWN FOR ITS breathtaking landscapes and world-class casinos, Canada has become a global hotspot for casino tourism.
In fact, millions of people visit every year to experience a mix of luxury and entertainment as they enjoy their favourite games on casino floors.
However, while seasoned tourists in Canada often enjoy unforgettable experiences on every visit, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
If you are a first-time visitor looking to enjoy Canada’s casino tourism, here’s a guide to what you need to know to make the most of the adventure.
The Gambling Age in Canada varies by Province
Unlike most countries, Canada doesn’t have a universal minimum legal gambling age. Instead, it varies by provinces and territories.
This is because the regulation of the country’s gambling industry is determined at the provincial level.
That said, the minimum legal gambling age in Canada generally ranges between 18 and 19, depending on which province you visit for casino tourism, as highlighted below:
- 18: Alberta, Manitoba, Québec
- 19: British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon
A Gambling Budget is a Must
A mistake that many first-time visitors to Canadian casinos often make is going to the gaming floor without a plan, especially when it comes to spending funds.
After all, it’s pretty easy to get caught up in the excitement of the casino floor, which can result in spending more than you should.
So, before you set foot in any of Canada’s glamorous casinos, have a spending limit budget and be prepared to lose it all potentially. According to Bonuslegend and other experienced experts in the Canadian casino scene, this is the golden rule of gambling.
Having a strict budget will help you avoid overspending. Beyond just having a strict budget, you should also do the following to make the most of your experience:
- Divide your budget into smaller parts for each gambling session on the casino floor.
- Set win/loss limits and make sure to walk away when you hit these caps
- Only go to the casino floor with the money you want to gamble with – leave out your credit and debit cards
Casino Etiquette is Important
Like in most hotspots, casino etiquette is essential in any gambling establishment in Canada. Casino etiquette is the most basic form of courtesy expected of every visitor in any casino.
Adhering to proper etiquette helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for yourself, other players, and even the establishment.
Here are some of the proper etiquette you need to follow when visiting a casino in Canada:
- Use appropriate language when you speak to the dealer and other players
- Be respectful to everyone on the casino floor
- Don’t use your smartphone at the tables
- Tipping the dealer and cocktail servers is customary in casinos, especially when you are winning
- Taking photographs or recording videos is generally not permitted on the casino floor, so don’t try to do so
- Make sure to drink responsibly to avoid disruptive behaviour on the casino floor
The Dress Code
There is generally no strict dress code for most casinos in Canada. While many establishments prefer a business casual look, you can always wear any comfortable and smart-looking attire.
However, you should opt for more appropriate clothing as a first-time visitor. After all, how you dress often impacts how the casino staff and other players perceive you.
Of course, you should also avoid wearing overtly revealing or offensive attire or anything that can be considered disrespectful.
For the more upscale casinos, it’s often best to dress in semi-formal or formal attire, especially if you are going in the evening. Overall, you should always first research the casino you want to visit to know if they have dos and don’ts regarding clothing.
Prepare for Adverse Weather
While Canada has a varied climate, it is mainly known for its harsh winters. During the winters, temperatures can be as cold as –15˚C during the day and –35˚C or lower at nighttime. This can result in hypothermia and frostbite for the unprepared.
So, if you are heading to Canada for casino tourism in the winter, ensure you pack enough warm clothing in layers.
Even if you visit in the summer, it’s best to bring warm clothing like a light jacket or sweater as the temperature can get quite chilly in the evening.
Many Massive Casinos are Available in Canada
The great thing about casino tourism in Canada is that the country is home to many of the best and biggest gambling establishments in the world.
These world-class casinos provide visitors with an unforgettable gambling experience alongside luxury dining, entertainment, and relaxation.
The table below shows some of the top destinations a first-time visitor to Canada can check out for the thrill of casino gaming.
| Casino | Location | Casino facilities |
| Casino de Montréal
|
Montreal, Quebec | 2,800+ slot machines, 100+ table games, poker room with 12 tables, arcade, sports betting terminals,
|
| Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort | Niagara Falls, Ontario | 3,200+ slot and video poker machines, 130+ table games, 21 sports betting kiosks |
| Caesars Windsor Hotel & Casino | Windsor, Ontario | 1,738 slot machines, 85 table games, poker room, sports betting kiosks |
| Casino Rama | Rama, Ontario | 1800 slot machines, 47 table games, 6 poker tables |
| Casino Niagara | Niagara Falls, Ontario | 1,300 slot and video poker machines, 40+ tables, 18-table poker room |
Canada has Two Official Languages
While English is the predominantly spoken language in the country, Canada has two official languages, with French being the second.
This is especially important in Quebec, where French is the majority and sole language, with 85% being native francophones. Many communities in regions like New Brunswick, Manitoba, and Ontario also have sizable native French speakers.
Thankfully, most tourist spots in these regions typically have well-trained staff who are bilingual or at least proficient in both.
However, knowing a few basic French phrases wouldn’t hurt before embarking on your casino tourism adventure. In fact, it could prove helpful in many situations.
Conclusion
Casino tourism in Canada can be an enjoyable, memorable, and potentially rewarding experience.
However, this is only if you understand the rules and what to expect from the country’s gaming scene, especially for first-time visitors.
From the legal gambling age to the proper etiquette, and the need for a spending budget, there are a few things first-time visitors must know before embarking on casino tourism in Canada.
Overall, you will find a welcoming and entertaining environment in Canada and its casino scene. Just ensure you gamble responsibly when you get to the casino floor.