For many cities, the construction of a major casino resort is the ultimate catalyst for a massive tourism boom.

Governments often legalize gambling specifically to revitalize struggling local economies and attract wealthy foreign visitors.

How Vegas Built a Tourism Empire

Las Vegas proved that if you build massive, luxurious gambling palaces, tourists will travel thousands of miles to visit.

To survive, the city aggressively diversified, focusing heavily on Michelin-star dining, massive conventions, and blockbuster residency shows.

• Massive sporting events, like Formula 1 and the Super Bowl, have further cemented the city as a global entertainment capital
• The sheer concentration of luxury hotel rooms allows the city to host millions of international visitors simultaneously
• Non-gaming amenities are heavily subsidized by the casino floor, making luxury experiences surprisingly affordable for tourists

The Rise of the Integrated Resort Model

Governments in Asia are incredibly strict, allowing gambling only if the developer builds massive public tourist attractions alongside the casino.

Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is famous worldwide for its iconic architecture, not just its baccarat tables.

The symbiotic relationship between gambling and tourism will only continue to grow as resorts become larger and more spectacular.