The clinking of slot machines and the shuffling of cards makes casinos a glitzy destination that beckons many tourists. Some travel the world specifically to gamble in new and exotic casino destinations while others inadvertently find themselves there. Regardless of why you’re there, these exquisite casinos will sway you into a night of pure self-indulgence.

It’s important to remember that while a casino may have flashy glitz, the games within are still gambling and almost always result in someone losing money. No matter how much a player wins, the house is always the winner in the long run. Casinos have a built in advantage that earns them money from the millions of bets placed by patrons. This edge may be lower than two percent, but over time it adds up, allowing casinos to build dazzling hotels, fountains, pyramids and towers that are more than mere eye candy.

In addition, casino employees are highly attentive to their patrons’ “pain points”–the moments when they are close to giving up. They are on the lookout for telltale behavior, like striking a machine in frustration or slumping over it discouraged. If they see a patron in pain, they can quickly swoop in and offer them vouchers for free credits or food to keep them playing.

Casinos are also known for their elaborate surveillance systems, with cameras watching every table, window and doorway in high definition. Some even have catwalks in the ceiling that allow security personnel to watch the action at the tables through one-way glass.