Online poker has quickly gained worldwide popularity, offering millions of poker players the chance to compete against each other and win big from anywhere. Despite all this, many poker players aspire to treat themselves to a holiday in the world’s exotic poker destinations to get away from the computer screen. The basic idea is to seek a great combination of gameplay and scenic relaxation.
Here are the top 9 destinations to experience poker beyond the screen and enjoy the life off-the felt.
1.Las Vegas, USA
Topping our list is none other than the mecca of poker, Las Vegas. Located in the United States of Nevada, this is a dream destination for almost every poker player in the world. Boasting a vibrant atmosphere, Las Vegas hosts the prestigious World Series of Poker each summer. The upcoming WSOP will be held from May 28 to July 17, with 99 gold bracelets to be awarded at two venues, the Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas. The schedule for the 2024 WSOP has been released. Regarding the details on the schedule, you can check out this LINK here!
With as many as 19 casinos still offering poker rooms, including renowned establishments like Bellagio, Wynn, and Aria, the Las Vegas Strip remains a haven for poker enthusiasts.
For a glimpse into poker history, you can take a trip downtown to Binion’s Horseshoe Casino where the WSOP first started over 50 years ago. While the original poker room does not exist now, Binion’s stands as a monument to the roots of the WSOP, offering a glimpse into Vegas poker legacy.
Las Vegas is an alluring destination on earth, where surrealism meets fascination, ensuring an unforgettable experience for poker enthusiasts who get there.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona has become a must visit destination in Europe for any adventurous poker player. Promising a fine blend of culture and casinos, the place is a home to many prestigious live poker tournaments.
The World Poker Tour, Party Poker and the European Poker Tour are some of the biggest live poker festivals hosted at Casino Barcelona, which is located near the beach and Port Olympic. Outside of the casinos, you can enjoy the beach, wonderful art, stunning architecture and some of the finest foods. If you are looking to do something special outside of the poker, you must visit the Camp Nou. Catch a FC Barcelona football game where nearly 100,000 people pack the stadium.
One of the highly-anticipated festivals coming this year in Barcelona is the EPT Barcelona, which is scheduled to take place from August 26 to September 8, 2024 at the luxurious Casino Barcelona. Boasting world-class poker experience and some of the best off-the-felt activities, it is a must-visit place if you are looking for a perfect blend of poker and off-the-felt activities in Barcelona.
3.Rozvadov and Prague
Rozvadov, a small village near the Czech-German border, boasts Europe’s largest poker casino, King’s Casino, with over 200 tables. The casino offers a luxurious 4-star hotel, a lavish 24-hour buffet, and opulent décor by renowned artists like Andy Warhol.
Also known as “RozVegas” by patrons, the casino hosts non-stop poker festivals throughout the year, including the World Series of Poker Europe and major tours like Party Poker Millions, WPT, 888 Live, Eureka Poker Tour and more. Even if one of these events is not happening, players can indulge in cash games.
Additionally, the King’s Casino Prague in the Hilton Hotel annually hosts the European Poker Tour, offering event tickets through online satellites on PokerStars. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and affordability, Prague is a must-visit destination for both poker enthusiasts as well travelers.
4. United Kingdom
The UK offers a plethora of top-notch poker venues for a poker holiday. While the capital boasts numerous casinos like Empire and Hippodrome for cash game enthusiasts, notable venues like Grosvenor Victoria and Aspers are also worth your visit for high-value tournaments and cash games.
Nottingham’s Dusk Till Dawn hosts major events since its 2007 inception, including the Grosvenor UK Poker Tour that caters to diverse bankrolls. The Grosvenor UK Poker Tour is held monthly in different locations, and Dusk Till Dawn hosts multiple major events annually. These festivals catering to diverse bankrolls are highlighted by GUKPT Goliath drawing thousands of players for its low buy-in events.
5. Cyprus
Cyprus has also become a prominent poker destination, hosting prestigious international poker festivals like the World Poker Tour (WPT) for years. Recently, it has witnessed a surge in major poker events, notably the Triton Series of high-roller tournaments.
In 2022, Cyprus elevated its poker scene with the Mediterranean Poker Party, held at the expansive Merit Royal Diamond Hotel & Casino in Kyrenia, boasting one of the world’s largest poker rooms. This poker extravaganza, featuring events catering to various stakes, is poised to become a staple on the European poker circuit, offering an amazing combination of poker, lively night parties, and beach side relaxation.
6. Macau, China
This is a once in lifetime poker holiday destination especially for adventurous poker players. Known as the Las Vegas of Asia, this gaming destination brings in more cash than Las Vegas and has become popular enough for the PokerStars Asian Pacific Poker Tour. Since poker was introduced in 2007, it has been growing in popularity and you can spot the world famous players like Phil Ivey, Sam Trickett, and Tom Dwan playing the biggest live pots here. Beyond poker, you get to experience the unique culture of Macau.
Once a Portuguese trading post, this beautiful island offers a perfect mix of two contrasting cultures. You can go to the top of the Macau Tower and experience a panoramic view that is second to none. If you are planning a poker trip, June is could be the best time for you as WPT will be hosting its inaugural series from June 18-24 this year.
7. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, known for its vibrant atmosphere, also hosts exciting poker events. While the Irish capital lacks legal casinos, poker tournaments thrive with local authorities’ approval and Irish police. Key venues include the Bonnington Hotel and the Green Isle Hotel, hosting events like the Irish Poker Tour and Dublin Poker Series.
PokerStars’ UK & Ireland Poker Tour also makes an annual stop in Dublin, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Irish Open, Europe’s oldest poker tournament since 1980. Held at venues like the RDS in Ballsbridge, it always draws a stellar crowd. The 2023 edition, boasting nearly €2.5 million in prize money, was won by David Docherty, an online qualifier via PokerStars satellite.
8. Melbourne, Victoria
Melbourne is also one of the most exotic poker holiday destinations on our list. Once home to the prestigious Aussie Millions at Crown Casino, its prominence has faded a little due to the pandemic-induced closure of the poker room and suspension of major festivals like the Aussie Millions. While poker activity at Crown is now resuming, major events are yet to happen. Nevertheless, Melbourne remains a vibrant city beyond the tables, boasting stunning restaurants and unparalleled nightlife.
9. Monte Carlo, Monaco
Serving as an ideal poker vacation, Monte Carlo is a home to upscale gaming and unmatched glamour. While its poker scene may be limited, PokerStars’ annual EPT and France Poker Series at Monte Carlo Bay Hotel and Resort offer a glimpse into its poker legacy. Whether you are a history lover or a fan of James Bond, this is a place to be in as James Bond gambled in several movies at the Monte Carlo Casino, located on the French Rivera.
Beyond cards, Monte Carlo is known for the world’s wealthiest people, F1 Grand Prix , pristine streets, scenic beaches, and fantastic dining options, making it a must-visit destination regardless of poker activity. Bring your sunglasses and order a bottle of champagne, as it is all about the fancy lifestyle here.
10. Goa, India
Last but not the least on our list is Goa, which stands as a prime destination for poker enthusiasts seeking a thrilling holiday experience. With its vibrant casino scene and prestigious tournaments such as India Poker Championship, Deltin Poker Tournament, and Baazi Poker Tour, Goa is a paradise for poker players looking to test their skills on the felts. When tournaments are not happening, you can indulge in cash game action running incessantly throughout the year.
Beyond the poker tables, Goa offers you numerous attractions, from pristine beaches and water sports to rich cultural heritage sites and delicious cuisine. Whether it is basking in the sun-kissed sands or exploring the stunning Portuguese architecture, Goa promises a perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and adventure.
If you are an avid tournament poker fan, then mark your calendars for May as it’s the ideal time to be in Goa, with the highly-anticipated Deltin Poker Tournament scheduled from May 21-27.
Keep following PokerProNews for the latest news on the popular destinations for poker vacation.
