Despite being smaller than New York City, this city state has the world's second biggest gambling market, and it is seen as a Monte Carlo of Asia.  Considering casinos were banned until 2005, and only began operating in 2010, it is amazing that the two casinos of Singapore – The Marina Bay Sands resort and its rival Resort World Sentosa – have been so successful. 
 
Games
 
There are a range of games available at these 'integrated resorts' (a euphemism to appease local opposition) in the same as what you might expect in Macau or Las Vegas, with a few surprises.  For example, Singapore Stud Poker is on the card at Marina Bay Sands, a twist on Caribbean Stud Poker exclusive to the island nation. 
 
One of the oldest gambling games in existence, Pai Gow is played at Resort World Sentosa.  Dating to back to the 10th century Song Dynasty, Pai Gow uses a complicated system of adding numbers to Chinese dominoes to create different combinations which are bet on. 
 
Sic Bo or Tai Sai, depending which casino you are in, is an ancient Chinese dice game that uses three die.  Popular due to its potentially massive payouts and many different outcomes, this game has its variants around the world.  These kinds of games may be unfamiliar to you, but it can be a rewarding experience learning how to play.  You can also expect the usual Blackjack, Texas Hold'em, Craps, Roulette and Pontoon.  Both casinos have over a thousand slot machines each to tempt you.
 
Etiquette
 
As a former crown colony of the United Kingdom, many standards of etiquette in western culture apply, and the casinos tend to allow foreigners a little leeway when it comes to manners.  However, it is useful to have knowledge of the conventions which are commonplace in Asian culture, as this will demonstrate an understanding of the country you find yourself in and will help you integrate with the multinational patrons.
 
A lot of the visitors to Singapore's casinos come from the surrounding countries, so a lot of unwritten rules apply and should be observed.  In most Asian countries, especially the Far East, older people are respected and honoured so expect them to be seated in the best seats at tables.  The same goes for wealthier guests, but the size and range of tables on offer in the resorts means you will not be playing with high rollers and millionaires unless you want to.
 
It is not a good idea to display excessive emotion, with modesty and generosity also being highly valued traits.  You will gain respect if you tip your dealer if you win, for example, or if you do not celebrate too loudly or excessively.  Boasting about how much you have just won is frowned upon, and public displays of affection and physical touching between people, especially of the head, is simply not done.
 
In general, as long as you are respectful and try to behave in a calm controlled manner, you will not have a problem.  If you do make a few social faux pas, you are likely to have a gentle reminder on how to behave rather than being reprimanded or asked to leave.  Remember the casino staff want you to stay as long as possible!
 
The Resorts
 
Do not be too surprised to see few locals at the tables.  Both resorts have an entry fee of $100 for 24 hours or $2000 an annual pass.  This is to discourage compulsive gambling among Singaporeans rather than to garner income.  As you will see from the opulent architecture, the resorts are not short of money! For example, the Marina Bay Sands resort is thought to have been the most expensive building of its kind ever built, costing around $8 billion. 
 
The complex includes a 2,561 room hotel, a convention centre of over 1 million square feet, a 150 metre infinity pool and the SkyPark, the world's largest cantilevered platform.  This marvel of engineering is longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall and is mainly on the three towers of the buildings with around 70 metres overhanging the north tower.
 
Resort World Sentosa is similarly lavish, costing nearly $5 billion and has no less than six different hotels, each with their own theme.  There are 11 restaurants with cuisine from four continents, and a luxury fashion shopping centre which features the likes of Swarovski, Tag Heuer and Jimmy Choo.  You can also sample the delights of Universal Studios Singapore, the Marine Life Park and the Festive Grand theatre.  You certainly won't have any reason to feel bored!
 
Round Up
 
Singapore is the perfect environment for the high roller, a gamblers paradise.  However, the range of attractions on offer also mean you could spend a month seeing the sights and experiencing the amusements without making a single bet! An amazing spectacle, these modern integrated resorts really are a 21st century destination.

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