A casino is an establishment for certain types of gambling. They are often built near or combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops and other tourist attractions. Some casinos are famous for their live entertainment, such as stand-up comedy or concerts.
Casinos are often designed with a particular style in mind to create an ambience and to encourage gamblers to place bets. They may be themed in the Roman or Moorish style, or they might aim for a more modern look. They are also adorned with chandeliers, expensive carpets and richly colored wall paintings to give patrons the impression that they are experiencing a luxury event. Casinos also attempt to minimize the sense of time by dimming the lights and playing background music.
In addition to offering a variety of games, most casinos have several security measures in place to protect their patrons and the money that they handle. Something about the nature of gambling encourages people to cheat and steal, either in collusion or independently; therefore, casinos spend a great deal of money on security. Casino security measures include surveillance cameras placed throughout the gaming areas, and catwalks above the tables which allow security personnel to watch the action through one-way mirrors.
Most of the gambling in casinos is done by individuals who are not addicted to gambling, but compulsive gamblers do generate a large portion of casino profits. According to a 2005 study by Roper Reports GfK NOP and the U.S. Gaming Panel, five percent of casino visitors are problem gamblers. These gamblers generate 25 percent of total casino revenues and cost the gambling industry approximately $10 billion annually in lost productivity, treatment costs and law enforcement expenses.