Beneath the flashing lights and free cocktails, casinos stand on a bedrock of mathematics, engineered to slowly bleed their patrons of cash. Yet, despite this mathematical certainty of loss, casinos attract gamblers in droves, from grand palaces in Las Vegas to small towns in Germany.

The Casino at Bellagio is famous for its fountain show and luxurious accommodations, but it’s not the only glamorous destination. Other world-famous casinos include the Monte Carlo in Monaco, Casino Lisboa in Lisbon and the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden.

Casinos offer a variety of games, from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to slot machines and poker rooms. Many of these venues also host live entertainment and top-notch hotels, restaurants and spas.

While many people consider casino gambling a form of recreation, some gamblers become addicted. According to a 2005 study by Roper Reports GfK NOP and the U.S. Gaming Panel, the average American casino gambler is a forty-six-year-old female with above-average income.

To maximize their profits, casinos focus on perks that encourage gamblers to spend more money. These are known as “comps” and can include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows and even limo service and airline tickets if you’re a big enough spender. Casinos may also offer special tables for high-stakes players where they can place bets of tens of thousands of dollars. These games are usually played in a private room, separate from the main casino floor.