Top 5 Poker Hotspots in Asia
Poker is a globally popular gaming phenomenon, and players from every continent have embraced the mixture of skill and luck that are required to succeed in this sphere.
It is especially influential in certain parts of Asia, so whether you are based in this part of the world or you are planning a visit, this quick rundown of the main regions where poker is a leading form of gambling will help you plot your itinerary.
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Seoul, South Korea
While gambling is a mainstream pastime in South Korea, it is also confusingly restricted as an activity for people born there, in spite of the fact that there are several major casinos in the capital city of Seoul.
Thankfully it is perfectly fine for foreign travellers to play poker and other casino games to their heart’s content when visiting South Korea.
To learn more about what South Korea has to offer poker aficionados, check out sites like 홀덤 (Holdem.World) which are packed with info to help you play at land-based sites and online.
Macau, China
Sitting just along the coast from Hong Kong, Macau has established itself as one of Asia’s biggest gambling hubs, largely because of how much investment has been funnelled into its vast casino resorts.
From the MGM Macau to the Galaxy Hotel and beyond, it is truly the Asian equivalent of Las Vegas, and is suitably packed with similar casino operator brands as well. Poker is just one of the table games played in the hallowed halls of its casinos, and there are also slot machines and of course a cavalcade of other entertainment options ranging from live shows to fine dining and beyond.
Manila, Philippines
While Manila may not have the same clout as Macau in terms of the sheer amount of money which is made available courtesy of the poker games and tournaments that are hosted at its many casinos, it is certainly its equal in terms of the sheer variety of opportunities available.
In particular Manila Bay is the area where poker players who want to make a name for themselves on the Asian scene should head, as a number of gambling-focused resorts have sprouted up there in recent decades, and even more premises are being built right now, providing further support to the fledgling reputation of the city and country alike.
Singapore
The city state of Singapore is an intriguing place to visit for many reasons, with its world class casinos being just one of them.
The Marina Bay Sands is perhaps the must-visit casino of Singapore for poker players, as it not only has a vast gaming floor with open tables and private rooms alike, but also boasts a huge surrounding complex and an especially memorable rooftop area complete with pools, restaurants and other delights.
Another advantage to playing poker in Singapore is that the local government does not tax the earnings of anyone who happens to make a living from playing poker, so pros might be able to clean up if they get lucky here.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
While the poker scene in Vietnam is relatively underdeveloped compared with the likes of Macau and South Korea, it is quickly gaining ground and it is not just casinos that offer opportunities to eager poker players.
In fact, poker clubs are a more appealing prospect because of the focus they provide and the overall quality of the experience, with visitors and residents alike allowed to enjoy entry and membership. As such, Vietnam is very much one to watch as Asia’s poker craze gains even more momentum.
