Gambling is not an exception to the digital revolution, which has revolutionized a multitude of industries. The prevalence of online gambling has skyrocketed, providing millions of participants worldwide with the convenience and accessibility they desire, empowering them to play on their own terms.
We will investigate the multifaceted influence of online wagering on travel and tourism in the United States as we investigate this subject, identifying both opportunities and challenges that result from this intersection.
A Rise in Tourist Interest Thanks to iGaming
Perhaps counterintuitively, the proliferation of online wagering has reignited interest in specific travel destinations. Numerous variables, including the virtual experience itself, may contribute to this phenomenon.
Real-world travel inspired by virtual experiences
Online casinos frequently develop their platforms and games with themes that invoke renowned landmarks, cities, or cultural experiences. This virtual exposure has the potential to pique the curiosity and wanderlust of players, motivating them to tour the real-world locations that served as the inspiration for their preferred online games.
The Emergence of Gambling Tourism
Due to the synergy between online wagering and travel, a new niche has emerged: gambling tourism. This concept involves travelers selecting destinations based on their wagering options, whether online or offline.
To cash in on this trend, several areas have done the following:
- Providing exclusive incentives or promotions to online gamblers who visit their physical casinos
- Putting on big online poker events with live final tables in cool places
- Developing all-inclusive resorts that include high-end lodgings, amusements, and gaming opportunities (both online and off).
At the time of writing, however, just seven of 50 US states have legalized iGaming. Industry experts believe many more will follow suit, which can only be positive for casino tourism.
Will more US States cash in on iGaming? The Experts Believe So
In a recent video interview, reporter Steve Bittenbender indicated that online casino gambling is poised to expand beyond the limited number of states currently involved, although this growth may take several years to materialize.
In a discussion on Gambling.com’s “The Edge,” Bittenbender noted that as iGaming continues to expand, advancements in online gaming technology could potentially push smaller casinos aside.
“That’s simply how capitalism operates,” he remarked. “The rise of iGaming is unavoidable.”
Nonetheless, he expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of additional states endorsing online casino gambling in the near future.
While iGaming usually produces higher tax revenue compared to sports betting in states where both are permitted, leaders at physical casinos have voiced worries that patrons may choose not to visit a conventional resort if they can access games such as slots and craps on their mobile devices from any location. According to Bittenbender, casino workers’ unions are also against iGaming, citing worries about potential job losses.
However, as evidenced by the thriving tourism of the seven destinations that have already legalized iGaming, brick-and-mortar casinos may have nothing to worry about, and eventually embrace the change that is moving towards an iGaming legalization nationwide.
The positives of iGaming convenience for casino tourist destinations
As an example of how casino tourism can benefit from iGaming, we’ve already seen a growing number of online gambling operators identify the opportunity to serve travelers, resulting in partnerships with travel-related applications and services.
Integration with travel applications includes:
- Airline loyalty programs for gaming activity
- Travel accommodation sites are giving package deals on casino destinations via online credits
- Casino hotel apps offering in-room tablets for iGaming
In addition, for certain travellers, the opportunity to participate in online gambling can elevate their entire travel experience:
- Relaxation: Offers a comforting way to decompress following a day of exploration.
- Engaging in social interaction: Online poker rooms and live dealer games present avenues to connect with fellow travelers or locals.
- Some tourists may opt to prolong their visits, blending exploration with intervals of online gambling from their lodgings.
While many physical casino establishments have been worried about the legalization of iGaming, remaining competitive is as simple as evolving their marketing strategies.
