Category Archives: Roulette

Its tough at the top and even tougher at the tables. You know howit is: youve been setting the blackjack table on fire, rolling naturals at craps,and rockin it on the river over at the poker table. Suddenly, a chill windblows through your soul; the dice die, the picture cards disappear, and youreall-in on a hope and a prayer. This is when a steady hand is needed to keep theship afloat. Dont panic: just follow these 10 simple rules and let the mojoflow.

Benjamin Franklin once famously said: By failing to prepare, youare preparing to fail. Benjamin Franklin also invented the lightning rod,bifocals, and was one of the founding fathers of the United States. This guyknows what he is talking about. Preparation is everything, if you want to max out your chances at the casino. Are you sittingcomfortably? Lets begin.

Theres a reason why drinks are free in most Las Vegas casinos.Alcohol and gambling are poor bedfellows. If youre out for the night, lookingto party and have some fun, enjoy the comped drinks and dont bother to countyour chips in the morning. If, however, youre hoping to roll high and playserious, keep the martinis and the Mai Tais at a distance.

Theres a reason why Las Vegas casinos dont have windows. Time isyour enemy and the casinos friend. The more hours you spend at the tables, themore likely it is that the house wins. If you start to get sleepy, its time tohead off to your (hopefully complimentary!) hotel room and get some rest. Theblackjack table will be there in the morning and you will still have some chipsto play

Youve got to know when to hold em, know when to fold em, knowwhen to walk away. Kenny Rogers song is nearly 45 years old but its messageis as true today as it was back then: quit when its starting to go sour.Chasing lost chips is the classic mistake casino players make. If you can feelthe adrenalin kicking in for all the wrong reasons, stand up and walk away. Youcan always live to fight and play another day.

Knowledge is power. There is no secret to your chances of winningin a casino. The odds of all the games are either on display or easy to lookup. The house always has the advantage. Games like keno and slots require noskill and have a significant house edge. However, games like blackjack andcraps both come with rules. Learn those rules and you improve your chances;when to make that bet, when to go large, and when to fold. Do the homework. Ithelps!

Online or offline, the choice is huge. If youre playing online,make sure you are playing with a reputable website. Online casinos likeCasino.com operate under very strict regulations and restrictions; protectingboth the player and the business.

The fact is: you are just as likely to win the lottery with thenumbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 as you are with any combination of numbers.Its also never, ever, the case that: after the roulette has hit red for 20spins, the next one is more likely to be black. This illogical but bizarrelyreasonable assumption is called the Gamblers Fallacy. Put simply: its abelief that because something hasnt happened for a period of time, it is morelikely too. The chance of either black or red hitting, playing roulette, isalways 50/50 (less the house edge).

For some reason, citizens of the United States often want to play onlyAmerican Roulette despite the fact the game has both a zero and a doublezero; this gives it a slightly higher house edge. Blackjack is a game thatcomes in many forms. Watch out for single deck games, games that hit on a soft17, and multiple variations on splits, doubles, and surrenders. Study the rulesof the games. They can vary from casino to casino. It all makes a difference.

Online casino gaming is a different kettle of fish. There areliterally hundreds of games to choose from; multiple versions of blackjack,video poker, and roulette, as well as scores of different online slots. Itsworth taking the time to discover what games suits both your style of play andyour budget.

Its the deal of the week. When we go shopping, we always scourthe supermarket shelves for a BOGOF bargain. Its exactly the same at thecasino. Buy a lot of chips at any Las Vegas casino and you could be in for freeaccommodation and a weekend to remember .

Online, there is a world of bonuses to discover. It might take alittle time to find the deal that best suits you. However: look closely, takeyour time, and choose wisely, and there are financial gains to be made. If youare happy to jump a few hoops, these bonuses, reloads, and special offers cansignificantly improve your edge.

At the end of the day, gambling is not a career. It should be fun. It can be exciting. Its often memorable. Most of the time, you will leave the casino with a lighter wallet but hopefully a few laughs and memories richer. Occasionally that last gasp $10 roulette single bet will hit and you will end up a winner; a great night at the tables and none the poorer. Keep it simple. Do your homework. Stay in control. Have fun!

Continued here:

When The Chips Are Down, Are You Ready To Clean Up? - blog.casino.com

The best aspect about online gambling is the promotions that they provide you, they offer more chances to bet. They offer accounts that go promptly into your fund and offer free chances to play.

Traditional Online Casino Singapore propose loyalty programs that have free dinners and hotel discounts, but those aspects dont have much to do with betting. If you stay near the casino, you may not have any use of a hotel holiday.

Online gambling websites like Yes8SG have more alternatives, so you could select the one that serves better for you, all of the bonuses deliver a better significance for gamblers than any land-based casino program.

All the benefits are accessible to any player, regardless of what sort of playing they admire.

Nevertheless, there are other advantages for casino players, in specific. Here are some reasons why casino players would love online gambling.

Game Variations at the licensed gambling website

Yes8SG Casinos online have more game varieties than traditional casinos. These casinos cannot level with the variation that casinos online offer as the floor room restricts them.

Many land-based casinos generally have nearly 100 game varieties, accommodating all slot machines too. Some casinos online have countless games, comprising multiple interpretations of table games.

When you have just played a specific interpretation of a game in a land-based casino, it is thrilling to discover online casinos that offer numerous alternatives.

Blackjack and roulette are outstanding examples. Many land-based casinos propose one kind of roulette or two or more kinds of blackjack.

The likelihood is you are aware of French roulette, European roulette, and American roulette. But do you realize that you may play other varieties such as Mini Roulette and Double Ball online on Yes8SG too?

Remember that every variant has its house edge, it can influence how much money you may win in the long term.

Why There Are No Etiquette Rules In the Best Online Casino in Singapore?

Decent etiquette is a vital aspect of social exchange. There are multiple regulations of etiquette in traditional casino settings unlike other online games.

Casino etiquette always pertains to tipping the croupiers and cocktail waiters and waitresses, being cautious of other individual's freedom, and utilizing accurate signals when dealing with the croupier.

When you are playing a casino game with many other individuals, you may want to be aware of other peoples beliefs and notions. Many casino players are extremely cautious about individuals employing the number seven.

You may easily hurt the feelings of an entire table of players by unintentionally uttering the number seven. They might also get upset at you when you utter eleven as it sounds very close to the word seven.

Etiquette intentions are an ingredient of the casino ordeal, but you might feel uneasy soon when you dont understand the regulations. You dont need to bother about that if you do online gambling.

When you play using your PC or mobile phone, the only individual you could offend is you. You dont need to bother about others beliefs or bewildering the croupier by making the incorrect hand clue.

When you are playing games digitally, there is no croupier involved as the computer deals with all aspects.

You could save the cash you would normally disburse by tipping the croupiers and cocktail waiters and waitresses. We suggest utilizing it for one more round of a casino game you love.

The only peculiarity is if you gamble live dealer casino games. Live games have actual dealers, you must tip them sometimes, just like how you do in a land-based casino. However, a few gamblers like the exchange they relish when they tour a traditional casino. You know this when you play live games.

Read the Rules

The most important aspect that you want to do if you are gambling games online is to ensure that you examine the rules. Every game would show up with its rules comprising features about placing a wager, the bonus details, and the pay lines. When you dont comprehend a game totally before attempting it then you may risk forfeiting your cash. You must be able to learn the rules effortlessly enough while the games load up. Ensure to constantly read the ordinances thoroughly and you would be on a favorable track to gaining a victory at casino games online.

Here is the original post:

Advantages for online gambling and its players - Ghana Latest Football News, Live Scores, Results - Ghanasoccernet.com

Sponsored Content

The gambling market in Kenya is growing at a fast pace. Nowadays, the Kenyan iGaming industry has faced many new challenges. More and more KE players can enjoy their favourite casino games online. Learn about the best online casinos in Kenya where you can find lots of gambling opportunities. Check out the most popular games you can play in Kenya and how attractive the bonus offers of the top gambling sites are.

Top 5 Online Casinos in Kenya & Their Offerings

In this article, we will reveal to you the gambling sites in Kenya where you can enjoy the most attractive gambling activities. To find the best online casinos in Kenya, check the full list here. We will tell you how to choose the top-rated online Kenya casino sites that offer the best game selections. Besides, you will learn more about the top Kenyan casino bonuses and promotions. We will also guide you on how to compare the bonuses and analyse their terms to be able to choose the ones that will be best for you.

Yet another vital component that we will pay attention to is safety. Gambling in a secure platform is essential to every online casino lover. So, we will explain to you what the essential security details that you need to pay attention to are. Of course, we will not forget to tell you how easy it is to gamble on the go in Kenya because mobile gambling in the country is now preferred more than ever. But you will also learn which are the most convenient payment methods that you can use to gamble online.

Best Online Casinos Kenya Top Kenyan Gambling Sites

If you are a keen online gambler, you may know that finding a good gambling site is not always easy. The Kenyan online gambling industry has significantly developed in recent years. New gambling regulations are set with the idea to control the industry better and to provide players in Kenya with a secure gambling environment.

To enjoy the most exciting gambling session, you need to be sure that the operators you pick are good enough. This is the reason why we have prepared this thorough guide. You can use it to check the major details that tend to be important when choosing the best casino sites Kenya platforms. Thus, you will be sure that you are using the services of the most reputable gambling sites that will offer you only top features.

How to Register at Kenya Online Casinos

To provide you with a secure gambling session, the best casino sites in Kenya such as Betway Casino, for example, will require that you register first. As you know, to be able to play at any casino site, you need to create a new account. The registration procedure in most of the gambling sites is similar. However, there might be slight differences, depending on the specific operator. Nonetheless, the details that you need to provide in most cases would be the same.

In general, registering at the top-rated casino sites in Kenya is not difficult at all. They offer a quick and easy procedure that requires only a couple of minutes to be completed. If you are familiar with playing in online gambling sites, you are more likely to know the drill. However, there are some details that you need to know. To be able to register in any of the best online casinos in Kenya, you need to follow several steps. In this guide, we will tell you what exactly you need to do to create a new login and start playing.

Enter the casino site and look for the dedicated button to register as a new player. In most cases, the sign-up tab is located at the top of the website, either on the right or on the left side.You need to start filling in the required details in the casino registration form. The information that you need to provide may include your names, address, date of birth, country of origin, mobile phone number as well as a valid e-mail. Besides, you will have to create a username and password for your new account.Mind that there might be several different sections containing mandatory fields that you have to fill in.Once you have provided the necessary details, you may be required to verify your account before it is completely activated. To do that, you will be sent either a special code on your e-mail or your mobile phone number. Moreover, most of gambling sites may require that you provide additional details such as a valid ID later to verify your account completely.

How to Choose the Best Online Casino in Kenya: Step-by-Step Guide

Without a doubt, if you are a player from Kenya, you will be able to find lots of online casinos that are worth the attention. However, the gambling sites differ from one another. Many different components help operators stand out in terms of provided services. The top casino sites in Kenya are competing on offering better services to KE players. This means that the competition in the Kenyan iGaming industry is severe and the operators are trying to offer as good services as possible.

This sometimes makes it difficult to find the best casino sites in Kenya. However, there are specific details that you always have to analyse first. These are the elements that can shape the overall performance of each particular operator. Thus, you will be able to choose the online Kenya casino sites that scored the best. But we will share with you the vital details that always matter when you decide to choose the top-rated casino sites in Kenya.

First of all, you need to check the security features. Safe gambling is nowadays a major priority. And not all gambling sites have the best security features. When you decide to pick a particular online casino site, be sure that it is licensed and regulated by the Kenya Betting Controlla and Licensing Board. This is the regulatory institution in Kenya that regulates the gambling industry in the country. Licences from other respectful and recognised international gambling regulatory bodies are also important.

The casino sites in Kenya also need to offer a good selection of gambling games. At least this is the major reason for you to register as a new player. To pick the right platforms for online casinos Kenya, you need to explore the selection of online casino games. Make sure that the specific operator offers different types of online casino games. Besides, check their quality and gameplay features too.

Another essential element is the bonus offers that you can benefit from. The best casino sites Kenya need to provide you with good opportunities when it comes to promotions. First, you need to check the welcome offer and its terms. Be sure that it is good enough and meets your expectations and skills. But also analyse the promotions for regular customers. You also need to play with a bonus once you complete the welcome offer. The list of promos for regular players is also essential.

Among the other components, you also need to observe is the list of available payment methods. Be sure that the online casinos in Kenya offer the most preferred payment systems that are widely used by KE players. Also, be sure that the casino sites in Kenya that you choose offer convenient customer support service.

Available Casino games

Gambling online in Kenya is very popular. KE players like different types of casino games. And, generally speaking, Kenyans are aware of the latest trends when it comes to game features and options. To a bigger extent, the gambling market in Kenya is mobile-oriented. And players in the country like to play on the go. The good news, though, is that the most recommended online Kenya casino sites offer vast selections of online casino games that players can enjoy. In the sections below, we will present to you the major types of games that are very popular in Kenya.

Slots

There is no doubt that online slots are one of the most popular types of online casino games. The fact is that they tend to be among the favourite casino games of many KE players too. Online slots are often preferred by players in the country, especially because they offer great mobile compatibility. The top-ranked online casinos in Kenya have a vast selection of online slot games.

The Kenyan operators offer many different types of slots that players in the country can enjoy online. KE players can choose from classic slots as well as the latest releases that stand out in terms of quality. At the best online casinos Kenya, you can play some of the top titles such as Book of Dead, Starburst, Immortal Romance, and Bonanza, Aloha! Cluster Pays and many more. The Kenyan gambling sites offer online slots with different features and options that will meet the expectations of the majority of KE gamblers.

Roulette

Some casino sites rely on specific types of casino games like slots, for example. And they tend to neglect the table games, which are often beloved by many players. But the top-rated casino sites in Kenya offer many table games. Online roulette is one of the table game variants that you can also play at the most reputable KE casino sites. Many of these operators will impress you with a plentiful selection of roulette game variations.

You will be able to choose from the most popular variants such as American Roulette, French Roulette, European Roulette as well as Speed Roulette, or Double Ball Roulette. The list of online roulette variations at the top casino sites in Kenya is diverse and players in the country can enjoy roulette games with attractive gameplay features. Besides, these online roulette games offer attractive betting limits, which means that they will be suitable for players with different skills.

Blackjack

Blackjack is yet another type of table game that often attracts many players in Kenya. Unlike roulette, online blackjack is a game where you can use a specific strategy. If you know the game rules well, you may have a serious chance to benefit a lot throughout the game. This is the reason why online blackjack is a preferred pick even of many Kenyan players.

As you may know, some of the most popular online blackjack game variations include Classic Blackjack, Blackjack Surrender, American Blackjack as well as Single Deck Blackjack. And these are the variations that you can definitely find at the best casino sites Kenya platforms. In case you need to play with either low or high stakes, you will be able to choose the blackjack variation that you want. Most of the casino sites in Kenya offer suitable betting limits for the different blackjack games.

Live Dealer Games

Live dealer games have always been a special part of the provided gambling services of many operators. And there is a good reason for that. They offer the best combination of real-casino experience and gambling online. Players in Kenya are also familiar with live casino games. They tend to be one of the most preferred types of KE online casino games too.

The best online casinos in Kenya have separate live casino sections. There, players can enjoy some of the most preferred live dealer game variations. These live casino games boast excellent video and streaming quality. Moreover, they have lots of useful features integrated into their gameplay which makes the overall experience even better.

Other Games

Analysis of the gambling market in Kenya shows that players in the county also like other types of casino games. Slots, roulette and blackjack are not the only games that intrigue players in Kanya. And the good news is that the top-rated online Kenya casino sites offer many other types of casino games that can still provide you with exciting gambling opportunities.

Some Kenyan players love to play online lotto and bingo and even poker games as well. But if we have to be honest, the number of players who like keno, craps and sic-bo are not that low at all. Be sure that many of the casino sites in Kenya that are ranked on top positions offer a decent number of those types of games. Here is the full list of other popular games that you can play in Kenya:

Online Casino Bonuses and Regular Promotions

Playing online casino games is definitely thrilling. But playing with a bonus is what can make your total experience even better. As you may know, online operators offer special welcome bonuses to their newly registered customers. First deposit bonuses are one of the major types of promotions that gambling sites offer.

The analysis shows that Kenyan players also like to play with bonuses. Many gamblers in the country are in a hunt for attractive promotions for new players. The best online casinos Kenya that we have listed offer exciting welcome bonuses. But the promotions differ from one another. Specific components such as bonus amount, wagering requirements, or validity can determine how good the particular sign-up bonus is. In the table below, we have listed the top online Kenya casino sites that offer the most attractive bonuses for new players in Kenya.

Welcome bonuses are meant to catch the attention of new potential customers. But when you register and use the sign-up bonus, you become a regular player at the casino. You will be willing to continue playing with bonuses. This is why the top-ranked casino sites in Kenya offer other promotions for already existing customers. These promos may be either reload bonuses, daily deals, or even prizes that are part of special VIP programmes. This means that players in Kenya with different skills and preferences will still be able to benefit from extra options and continue gambling with different types of bonuses.

Casino Software Providers in Kenya

If you are a keen online casino enthusiast, you will know that game diversity is essential. To be able to offer you a better choice of online casino games, the best online casinos in Kenya use the services of the most reputable software providers. The operators listed in this article collaborate with the biggest and more recognised iGaming software brands. These are NetEnt, Yggdrasil, Play n Go, EGT, ELK, Microgaming, Evolution as well as iSoftBet and many more.

Most of these software providers have won multiple prestigious international iGaming awards thanks to the top-quality products that they develop. Together with the innovative features implemented in the casino games, quality can rank a specific software provider at high positions. Here are some of the top software providers in Kenya.

Mobile Casinos in Kenya and Supported Devices

Many trends have become extremely popular in the iGaming industry. But currently, mobile gambling is maybe the most popular. But in Kenya, playing on the go is preferred by the majority of gamblers. Many Kenyans prefer to grab their mobile phones and play their favourite online casino games anywhere at any time.

The good news is that the online casinos in Kenya that we have listed offer excellent overall mobile compatibility. Their gaming platforms are developed following the latest mobile innovations. Besides, all games that they offer are also fully mobile compatible. Some of the top casino sites in Kenya even offer dedicated apps for Android and iOS devices, making them even easier to access. You can enter any of the Kenyan operators using different mobile device brands such as Samsung, Huawei, LG, Nokia, iPhone, Alcatel, Xiaomi and others.

Banking with Online Casinos/Payment methods

To play online casino games, you will have to create an account and fund it. Our top-listed online Kenya casino sites offer some of the most convenient payment systems in Kenya. They offer quick deposits as well as relatively fast withdrawals. Some of the top Kenyan casino sites even offer payment systems such as M-Pesa, which are very convenient to those who decide to play on the go. Besides, most of the payment options come with excellent security features. Here are the most popular payment methods that you can use at the best online casinos in Kenya:

Limits and Fees

You need to be aware that each casino site may apply specific limits or fees for deposits and withdrawals. In most cases, the minimum deposit limits may vary between $10 or $20. However, depending on the casino requirements, the maximum deposit limits may be between $5000 or $10,000, or sometimes $20,000 or $50,000. This depends on the particular casino requirements.

As for the withdrawals, there can also be specific limitations regarding the minimum and maximum withdrawal amount. Usually, players can check the limits once they register and access the cashier at their accounts. When you choose a specific payment system, you should be able to see what the limits at the casino are.

There might be some fees as well. However, not every casino site will apply any fees. Or, if it does, it may be to both deposits and withdrawal or for one of the options. Sometimes, the casino will apply fees only to a specific payment method. This depends on the casino politics and requirements. You are always advised to check if there are any fees first. And if the casino does not apply any fees, you should check if you may be charged any fees by the payment method that you want to use.

Safety and Security

Safe online gambling has become a very important topic even in Kenya. More players start to pay serious attention to their security. What else makes a particular casino site trusted enough is the level of security that it can offer. The best casino sites in Kenya are licensed and regulated by the gambling regulatory institutions in the country. Moreover, many of the KE gambling sites are also licensed by other leading gambling regulatory agencies such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority, which are recognised worldwide.

Moreover, the top Kenyan casino sites also pay serious attention to responsible gambling. They collaborate with market-leading agencies that provide players support in case they face any problem gambling issues. Some of these organisations include BeGambleAware, GamStop or Gambling Therapy.

Customer Service

Every player may need help sometimes. Here comes the necessity of a well-managed customer support service. Thus, players will be even more satisfied with the services of a particular gambling site. The online Kenya casino sites will offer you the most popular methods of contact, including live chat, e-mail, or even a phone number. Some of the operators also have thorough FAQ sections where you can find lots of information on topics related to your account, payments, bonuses, etc.

Gambling Situation in Kenya

Gambling in Kenya is legal. The state authorities allow all forms of gambling activities. Besides, online gambling in the country is one of the segments that enjoys great popularity. Gambling in Kenya is regulated by the Betting Control and Licensing Board. It has been operating since 1966. The best online casinos in Kenya are regulated and licensed by this official gambling regulatory institution.

But the government also allows online gambling sites that have valid licences from other internationally recognised gambling regulatory bodies for the iGaming industry. These are, for example, the UK Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. Kenyan players are free to access online gambling sites that have licences from these organisations and gamble.

FAQs

We know that still, some questions may arise. If you have missed something, you may rely on the section below. Here, you might be able to find the information that you need about the best Kenyan casino sites. We have prepared answers to several of the most frequently asked questions about the online Kenya casino sites.

What are the best online casinos in Kenya?

Many gambling sites are allowed to operate in Kenya. However, not every one of them offers the most exciting options and features. The best casino sites in Kenya that we have listed offer the most attractive combination between games, bonuses, payment systems and customer support.

What are the best bonuses at the online Kenya casino sites?

Our top-ranked online casinos in Kenya offer lots of gambling options. Apart from the game collections, these gambling sites also offer the top bonus offers for players in Kenya. Their welcome bonuses come with attractive wagering conditions and exciting rewards that you can benefit from.

What games can I play at the best casino sites in Kenya?

Our top-listed online casinos in Kenya offer an extended list of top-quality gambling games. They offer everything that the majority of KE players would be needing. You can either play online slots or choose from different table game variations. Live dealer games are also on offer.

Can I play on the go with the casino sites in Kenya?

The best online casinos in Kenya are fully mobile compatible. Besides, their overall mobile performance is at a very good level. Some of the gambling sites have even dedicated mobile apps for Android and iOS devices that will provide you with an even better experience on the go.

Is gambling at the casino sites in Kenya legal?

All forms of gambling in Kenya are legal. Gambling in the country is regulated by the Betting Control and Licensing Board. All casinos that operate on the territory of the country are licensed by this institution. Moreover, online casinos are fully legal in Kenya.

Continue reading here:

A guide to choosing the best online casinos in Kenya for 2021 - The Standard

Sep 18, 2021

Jake Trotter

Brooke Pryor

One by one, the tubs of oysters began arriving.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers had invited the entire Green Bay Packers offensive line to the Kentucky Derby, which had included a dinner out in Louisville. As each oyster bucket slammed onto the table, young Green Bay center J.C. Tretter grew even more mortified about his misconstrued appetizer order.

"Aaron was like, 'Did you order 12 dozen oyster Rockefellers!?'" recalled Tretter, now the NFLPA president and Cleveland Browns starting center. "And I was like, 'No, I just ordered 12 of them!'"

As Packers tackle David Bakhtiari returned from the bathroom, he overheard someone in the kitchen screaming, "Who the f--- thought they ordered 144 oyster Rockefellers!?"

To Tretter's relief, the restaurant comped the order. And the Packers line devoured all the oysters they could muster.

Patriots-Jets rivalry goes to Gen Z QBs $1,500 tabs: NFL linemen dinners are back Tony Dungy's advice for Arthur Smith? Justin Fields topic rages on in Cincy, Chicago Heinicke's composure similar to another QB Offside game joins Giants' painful losses

Around the NFL, offensive line dinners are legendary for their larger-than-life orders. But they're more than Herculean feats of plate-clearing eating. Linemen dinners have long been the connecting force bonding the big boys up front.

"A time for linemen to be linemen," said Browns Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio. "We enjoy good food and having a good time and that's the special part about it."

Producing tighter units off the field. And in turn, often better ones on it.

"It's a time for fellowship, get[ting] the brotherhood together," said New Orleans Saints All-Pro tackle Terron Armstead. "Just a great time to get away from football, talk about everything else, learn more about each other, eat great food."

That is why they were so missed last season, as protocols from the COVID-19 pandemic all but eliminated player gatherings of any kind outside the team facilities.

"Last year we weren't around each other, not in meeting rooms and especially not at the dinners," Bitonio said. "We couldn't even leave our hotels on road [trips]. And the dinners, that's where you really bond, you learn about your teammates.

"So to not have them was big. We're really looking forward to having them back."

Those protocols have since been relaxed for vaccinated players and, around the league, linemen dinners have began to return, with spreads as big as ever.

In Pittsburgh, they began reemerging during OTAs in the spring.

For nearly a decade, Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey hosted their weekly gatherings at his home, catering food from local steakhouses. To retired guard Ramon Foster, who said the Steelers tradition dates back two decades, the dinners were a treasured part of the week, the kickoff of the game weekend festivities.

"I've actually driven through a snow and ice storm where trees were falling down," said Foster, who retired in 2020. "It wasn't one of those things you had to be there, but wanted to be there."

With Pouncey also retiring, tackle Zach Banner has taken the mantle as host for a revamped Steelers offensive line. His first dinner prepared by a local chef included brisket, potato salad, cornbread and a roasted pig's head, which, in this case, was merely for decoration.

"We're having a lot more like beginner-level conversations, but it's really just getting to know each other," Banner said. "We need that fellowship."

Pittsburgh's offensive line is hardly alone.

"That's really what you crave and what you enjoy most about this business -- your teammates and that environment. And that was kind of taken away last year, so that was really hard," said Tretter, who, as NFLPA president, was part of negotiations lessening restrictions for vaccinated players this year, opening the door for linemen dinners to resume. "Guys don't want to experience losing that ever again."

Every offensive line dinner has its own individual rules and traditions, including who picks up the tab, which can average anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000, not including alcohol.

In Baltimore, the guys with the biggest contracts usually pay. At the moment, that's tackle Ronnie Stanley; before that, former Ravens guard Marshal Yanda would do the same.

The Bengals, on the other hand, rotate, with veteran tackle Riley Reiff, who signed with the team in free agency, grabbing the bill at a Brazilian steakhouse in August, Cincinnati's first offensive linemen dinner since the 2019 season. The Saints have a similar system.

Everything you need this week: Full schedule | Standings Depth charts for every team Transactions | Injuries Football Power Index rankings More NFL coverage

"Everybody has to take their turn, then the rich guys normally do two," said Saints backup center Will Clapp, who joked that All-Pro tackle Ryan Ramczyk-- with his new $96 million deal -- now might have to pick up three.

The New England Patriots, meanwhile, are among the teams that enjoy playing credit card roulette.

"Everybody puts their card in a hat," tackle Isaiah Wynn said. "The first card chosen is the one that has to pay for it. ... you can only imagine with the whole O-line there, it gets pretty expensive."

Some teams have instituted even more creative means of payment.

"We had a kangaroo court fine system during the season where pretty much anything you did got you fined," former Browns All-Pro tackle Joe Thomas said. "Then you collected that money at the end of the year and went to a nice dinner. Whatever was left over you donated to a local charity."

Praising your own block during a film session constituted a fine. Rookies being "super annoying" resulted in a fine, as well.

"We came up with fines willy-nilly," said Thomas, who noted the pots sometimes reached $20,000. "We'd write them up on the whiteboard throughout the year, so you could see what all the fines were and the punitive damage for each violation."

Credit card roulette itself, however, can become punitive. Former Browns guard Eric Kush learned that the hard way before a preseason game in Indianapolis two years ago.

"Nobody was drinking because we played the next day, so it was an easy bill to accept -- like, 'Don't worry guys, I got this,'" Bitonio said. "Then one of the practice squad guys was like, 'No, let's play credit card roulette!' And I was like, 'All right, I'm not gonna fight you on that one.'

"Eric ended up getting stuck with the bill, and I think it was the angriest I've ever seen him -- he was like, 'Just let him pay for it next time!'"

When the drinking starts, the damages can be far greater.

"One time me and [former Cleveland guard] John Greco were peer pressuring each other to keep ordering nicer and nicer bourbons," Thomas recalled. "The whole night [former Browns tackle] Mitchell Schwartz was really careful about not ordering anything too expensive because he was so scared he was going to lose the credit card roulette. I think he even ordered the chicken breast.

"But he ended up losing anyway and had to pay our $500 bourbon tab -- and he doesn't even drink. He's still pissed about it to this day."

While every linemen dinner is different, one strategy is always the same.

"The real art is scheduling it correctly," Bitonio said. "If you have weigh-ins on Friday, you can't do a Thursday linemen dinner, because you're going to have a few guys tipping the scales."

That's why the Steelers, who have weigh-ins on Thursday mornings, hold their dinners that evening.

"No matter how destructive you are later that night," Banner said, "you have seven days to get right."

And when it comes to eating, linemen can be rather destructive.

"My favorite part is, when you eat with a bunch of big guys, you have the option to order every appetizer on the menu," said Bitonio, who loves when local restaurants bring off-menu items. "You get to try different things. 'Bring us everything!' And usually the food gets completely eaten, that's the crazy part."

To the Patriots, nothing seemed crazier than watching former teammate Marcus Cannon, now a tackle with the Houston Texans, eat an entire hog head by himself.

At Pittsburgh's dinners, tackle Alejandro Villanueva, now with Baltimore, drew plenty of laughter when piling his plate high with overlapping foods: brisket on top of chicken on top of mac and cheese on top of green beans with barbecue sauce drizzled over the mound.

In New Orleans, Armstead said their eating used to be out of control before they collectively became more health conscious in recent years.

"Mayhem," he said of the past, "cheese sticks everywhere.

"Now, it's a little bit more thoughtful."

Among the most legendary "glutton fests," as the Saints put it, came at the expense of Roger Allen, a practice squad guard from 2010.

"Roger had this habit of ordering two meals, which we all found offensive because we order so many appetizers that most guys don't want to eat a meal," said former New Orleans lineman Zach Strief, now the Saints line coach. "It's every appetizer on the menu times six, it's ridiculous. So Roger would always order two meals, and he would never finish two meals. We're like, 'What are you doing?' So Roger tells us, 'What are you talking about? I eat anything anyone ever puts in front of me, there are no limits to what I can eat.'"

The Saints offensive line would later put that to the test, with Strief pre-ordering Allen a 100-ounce ribeye.

"Now he's cornered because of what he said," Strief continued. "So Roger goes to town and finished that steak. He looks miserable.

"Then he sits back in his chair and a button on his shirt pops across the table. That's a true story."

Though the dinners are for linemen, quarterbacks are usually welcomed. Especially when they offer to pay.

Drew Brees would hold court with the Saints linemen, regaling them with stories. Foster remembers Ben Roethlisberger showing up to linemen dinners when they were held at guard Chris Kemoeatu's mortuary-turned-condo in Pittsburgh's Southside. He regularly played cards with the linemen and other players who stopped by.

Another Pittsburgh quarterback, albeit one on the other side of the indoor practice facility the Steelers share with the University of Pittsburgh, also hangs with his linemen -- and he has even picked up the tab.

Panthers QB Kenny Pickett took advantage of college football's new NIL rules so that his offensive line could enjoy a weekly hog dinner with him -- on the house.

"Having the opportunity to take care of them and getting to spend more time with them," Pickett told ESPN last month, "it means a lot."

While other college quarterbacks are sure to follow Pickett's lead, Thomas noted linemen dinners are more important for the pros.

"In college, you go out with your buddies after games to the bars and stuff like that," Thomas said. "In the NFL you really don't do that. You're more tired, your body is way more beat up. The last thing you want to do is stand around at a bar. In the NFL, the linemen dinners replace that. It's really the only time outside of the facility that you're going to see guys and get to know them on a personal level.

"That translates to caring a little more about their well-being on the field and wanting to see them succeed, and typically as an offensive lineman, as one goes, we all go. That makes the group tighter. Tighter teams, tighter offensive lines, they usually tend to perform better."

Foster swears by that, suggesting team chemistry in Pittsburgh over the years always originated up front.

"The O-line is going to stick together," he said, "and that group is going to get everybody else tight."

Developing that tightness. While loosening the belts.

"When you're closer together, it's a non-tangible thing," Tretter said. "You can't measure it."

Ben Baby, Jamison Hensley, and Mike Reiss and Mike Triplett contributed to this story

See the original post:

Supersized steaks, $1,500 tabs and lots of laughs - NFL linemen dinners are back and bigger than ever - ESPN

Old ones first: Tippingis not a city in China. In the USA, tipping is definitely a big thing. Ifyou have ever forgotten to leave at least 10% 15% for your waiting staff, thereis a very good chance you were probably chased off the premises. Tipping is anessential part of the economy in the USA, where the minimum wage forcustomer-facing service staff is lower than those working away from the public.Its also good karma to show your appreciation for the work and effort of theserelatively low paid staff.

In Las Vegas, some croupiers working the craps table at abig-name casino can earn up to $100,000 a year in tips. The average isprobably about half that amount. If you are lucky enough to visit a livecasino, its important to get the dealer on your side. One of the ways to dothis is to tip like a pro. Want to know how? Here are the tip tips

This varies from country to country. In Europe, only Englandand Monaco really encourage tipping. In fact: tipping in the UK was illegaluntil the introduction of the 2005 Gaming Act. In the USA, the culture oftipping is ubiquitous. In Las Vegas, you would be encouraged to tip everyone:from your driver and the doorman, to the porter, waitress, and even thereceptionist. Be smart: a twenty dollar tip could be worth a $100 room upgrade.

In some European casinos, tipping dealers is discouraged, asit can draw suspicion. The situation is similar in Asia where tipping is notthe norm. If you are not sure, just ask.

It all comes down to two things: how deep are your pocketsand how smooth do you like your ride? In Las Vegas, tipping is the norm (and anecessary evil). If you want drinks at the blackjack table, you need to tip theserving staff every time he or she delivers; normally, at least a dollar perdrink. If you are looking for a special off strip game, the doorman orconcierge is traditionally the font of all knowledge. Tip him to unlock it.Tipping the dealer is also very much the norm but a little more complicated.

There are several different ways to show your dealer somefinancial love. Live casino dealers generally work about 40 minutes in everyhour. They need to take frequent breaks to stay sharp. You can tip a dealer fora session or just throw down single dollars every so often. Its important thatyou never hand the money directly to the dealer. Just put the tip outside thebetting area and let the dealer know its for him or her.

Alternatively, you can share your winnings with the dealer.This is a particular favourite at the poker table. If a player hits a big pot,its common practice to share a percentage of the pot with the dealer. Normallybetween one and five per cent.

A fun way to tip your dealer is to make a bet on theirbehalf. If you are playing blackjack, its quite easy. You can either place thetip chip ahead of yours, so that it is half in and half out the betting circle.This way, the dealer keeps both the bet and any winnings. Alternatively, youcan just put the chip on top of your bet. This way, the dealer gets thewinnings but not the ante. In roulette, you simply inform the dealer that thisbet is for them and make sure the chip is slightly offset. In craps, you canbet two ways, splitting any winnings.

Recent years have seen the evolution and growth of live dealeronline casinos. There are many different versions to try. Some feature a tipbox where you can show your appreciation of the dealers hard work especiallyif you are on a winning streak. Of course, one of the best things about onlinegambling is that you can choose to say humbug to it all, and avoid the tips,the drinks, the unwanted chit chat, and other people; just concentrate on yourgame.

Make no mistake: tipping can be big business for croupiersworking in the worlds top casinos. The craps team at Steve Wynns Las Vegascasino were rumoured to be earning tips in excess of $100,000 a year;supplementing a $40,000 salary.

The late great Australian media tycoon Kerry Packer was renowned for his generous gratuities. Packer was an avid gambler and there are at least three stories of him paying off the mortgage of either a lucky cocktail waitress or croupier.

One of the lucky recipients told Packer that she could notaccept the tip stating that all tips had to be shared. Packer called over hermanager. Told him to fire her on the spot. He did. Packer paid the woman and thentold the manager to rehire her.

At the end of the day, if youre on a roll, enjoying the evening, stacking up the chips, why not share your good fortune with the many people helping to make it happen. Alternatively, check out some online gaming and channel your inner Ebenezer with some totally tip-free action. Perhaps the best tip anecdote comes from Soho jazz club legend Ronnie Scott who, when asked for a tip, replied: never pat a burning dog.

See more here:

What? Where? When? Why? Our Top Tips on the Art of the Tip - blog.casino.com

It's not uncommon for casino players to seek out any means to improve their odds. In the case of roulette, this is no different. Several tips and strategies can work on a roulette table when you're playing in a brick-and-mortar casino, but what about online roulette?

We look at some of the most prominent tips and strategies and how they could affect your online gameplay.

Roulette is one of the most accessible table games at casinos the ease with which new players can learn how to play roulette makes it increasingly popular. But there are also many potential pitfalls that new players can avoid if they follow these fundamental tips.

Compared to other table games such as blackjack and poker, roulette does not require any skill as it relies solely on luck. In the end, a roulette strategy does little more than assist players in taking an intelligent approach to their bankroll.

The most popular roulette strategies are the following.

Whether you're playing a table game or an online slot, it's crucial to incorporate one of the very best gambling and betting strategies into your gameplay. Not only does a bankroll strategy prolong your gameplay, but it keeps you disciplined and avoids the need to chase any losses you may incur. Bankroll management only exposes a set percentage of a player's budget to risk.

The Martingale Strategy's basic premise is that a player should bet more after every loss. The strategy comes into effect as soon as the player loses their first round. From here, the player should double their stake after each loss until they win a game. A winning bet will be of such magnitude that it will cover all of the losses, plus the player will also win an amount equal to their original bet's stake.

For example, a player places a $10 wager and loses. The next bet should be worth $20, but the layer loses again. The player is now down by $30. The next round requires the previous stake to be doubled, resulting in a $40 bet that wins. The player wins back $40 and would be up by $10, which is the initial bet's stake.

Bear in mind that this is a high-risk strategy that requires a large bankroll and could lead to significant losses if the winner encounters a losing streak. This strategy is best for even-money outside bets: 1-18, 19-36, red, black, even, and odd.

This strategy flips the Martingale Strategy on its head. Instead of doubling your bet after each loss, the Reverse Martingale advises you to double the stake after each win. The player should start with the lowest possible wager on one of the even bets.

The player keeps on betting this amount up until they win; following the win, the stake doubles. If the player loses after a win, they restart the strategy by betting the smallest wager again. This strategy ensures that your losses aren't that much and consecutive wins add up quickly.

Thanks to its simplicity and low risk, the Reverse Martingale is ideal for roulette novices. However, one should weigh the pros upon the cons. This particular strategy allows a singular loss during a lucky streak to wipe away all profits. A player should stop while the going's good; otherwise, their bankroll may lead to a detrimental loss.

Naturally, there are strategies that we did not touch on, such as the D'Alembert Strategy and Labouchere strategies. Ultimately gambling strategies are of little consequence to a game of roulette. Luck plays a predominant role in roulette gameplay. Although, players may be able to tip odds in their favour by following basic bankroll management principles and tactical awareness to strike it lucky at the age-old game of roulette.

About the author: Hein Sondag

Hein Sondag has worked in the online casino and sports betting industries for over a decade. A wild man at heart with a passion for writing about what matters most about betting turning a profit while enjoying the gameplay. Hes an avid fan of horse racing, baccarat, and the slots industrys latest developments. When hes not keeping tabs on the latest online casino developments and writing for OnlineUnitedStatesCasinos.com, hes cycling, hiking, and swimming with sharks.

Disclaimer: Play responsibly. Players must be over 18. For help visit https://www.gamcare.org.uk.

Independent journalism costs money. Support Times of Malta for the price of a coffee.

Original post:

Expert tips to play roulette - Times of Malta

There are many ways of playing the game of roulette. Whether you have a system in place or just decide to hope for the best, choosing the right kind of roulette bet is vital. So, what are the different options you need to know about?

This is the selection that you will find in the numbered betting area next to the roulette wheel. They are the best roulette bets in terms of the amount of the potential payout, but they also have a lower chance of coming up than the outside bets.

This is a wager where you place the chip on a single number. In European games, this gives you a 36 to 1 chance of winning, while the extra zero in American games increases this to 37 to 1. In terms of the return, expect to earn a 35 to 1 payout if the ball lands on the same number that you bet on.

By placing your chip on the line separating two numbers, you bet on both. You will get a return on your wager if the ball lands on either of the two numbers. This pays out at a rate of 17 to 1. The odds of it working out are 17.5 to 1 in European games, and 18 to 1 in the American version.

The next inside bet in roulette is a Street Bet, where you put your money on three numbers in the same row. You do this by putting chips at the end of the row you want to cover, on the outside edge. This gives an 11 to 1 payout if the ball lands on any of the chosen three numbers.

Also known as a square bet, this type of roulette bet has you place your chip in the corner where four numbers meet. This means that you are betting on any of the four numbers coming up, which would result in a payout of 8 to 1.

For a Six Line bet, place your chip at the edge of two rows (like a Street bet but covering two rows). If the ball lands on any of the six numbers in those rows, this bet pays out at 5 to 1.

Depending on the type of roulette you are playing, you may also be able to place bets that cover 0 and 00. Trio, First Four, and Top Line bets all cover those numbers and several others, and they pay out at odds of between 6 to 1 and 11 to 1.

Roulette outside bets are the options that are on the outside of the numbered grid. These have a higher chance of coming up than inside bets, with a lower potential payout if you get it right. This means that they are often used in roulette outside betting strategies like progressive systems.

This is where you choose whether you think the ball will land on a red number or a black number. Red or black roulette bets pay out at 1 to 1 (or evens), with the presence of the zero pocket(s) meaning that the chance of calling it correctly is slightly lower than 50%.

This roulette outside bet is used when you want to predict whether the ball will land on a number between 19 to 36 (high) or 1 to 18 (low). The payout and odds are the same as a Red or Black bet.

With this bet, you wager on whether the ball will land in an odd number or an even number. As with the previous two outside bets, this bet gives a 1 to 1 return and has a probability of just under 50%.

You can also put your wager on whether the ball will stop on a number between 1 and 12 (first dozen), 13 and 24 (second dozen), or 25 and 36 (third dozen). There is a 2 to 1 payout for predicting this correctly, with the chances of it coming up slightly less than 33%.

On a roulette table, the numbers you can place your bets on are split into three columns of 12, and you can place a bet on one or more of those columns. For example, if you place a bet on the first column, your bet covers all the following numbers: 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31, and 34. Column bets also pay out at 2 to 1.

Also known as an announced bet, a call bet is a type of special roulette bet that covers all the numbers within a certain section of the wheel. Many of them are known as French bets and are specific to European roulette, although the German-inspired Jeu Zro wager is also commonly included. In online games of roulette, you may need to click on a separate tab to see these options presented in an oval, racetrack-type format.

This is the neighbours of zero bet, in which you are betting on all the numbers on the roulette wheel between (and including) 22 and 25. A minimum of nine chips are needed for this roulette wager, and the payout depends upon the exact number that comes up, as not all the numbers have the same amount staked on them.

Voisins du Zro consists of the following bets: 0/2/3 Trio x 2, 4/7 Split, 12/15 Split, 18/21 Split, 19/22 Split, 25/26/28/29 Corner x 2, 32/35 Split.

Known as the zero game bet, this covers all the numbers on the wheel closest to zero. You are covering seven different numbers, using at least four chips in a variety of different wagers: 0/3 Split, 12/15 Split, 26 Straight Up, 32/35 Split.

The next of the called roulette bets is Tiers du Cylindre (sometimes simply referred to as Tiers), which covers 12 numbers, just under a third of the wheel. In this case, the numbers that are covered are those between 27 and 33.

The exact bets are: 5/8 Split, 10/11 Split, 13/16 Split, 23/24 Split, 27/30 Split, 33/36 Split.

The Orphelins (or Orphans) bet covers two different segments of the roulette wheel. This means that you use at least five chips to cover eight numbers: 1 Straight Up, 6/9 Split, 14/17 Split, 17/20 Split, 31/34 Split.

This is an option using four or more chips to cover each of the pockets that end in your chosen number such as 3, 13, 23, 33 if you decide to place your stake on numbers ending in 3.

One of the great attractions of this casino game is the fact that you can create combination roulette bets, based on whatever series of numbers you like the look of.

The variety of different roulette bets that are available make it easy for you to find the exact type of wager that suits your needs and taste. Now that you understand the best roulette bets and how to place them, it is simply a question of choosing which ones you prefer to use.

Did you know that French roulette initially started with two zeros? Although it has one zero in todays games, that wasnt always the case. The double zero is what helped create the French roulette bets La Partage, through which you can get 50% of your stake back if the ball lands on zero.

Read this article:

Different Roulette Bets and How To Place Them with - blog.casino.com

Casino.com WWW is licensed and regulated to offer online casino gaming services under the jurisdiction of Gibraltar. 2021 Casino.com is an internationally registered trademark. Casino.com is operated by ONISAC Ltd of Suite 741 Europort, Gibraltar under a license issued by the Gibraltar Licensing Authority, RGL No.053 and regulated by theGibraltar Gambling Commissioner. For players located in Great Britain only, Casino.com is operated by Mansion Europe Holdings Ltd under a United Kingdom Gambling Commission Remote Operating Licence, Number 000-039448-R-319446. Only players above the age of 18 are permitted to play our games. Underage gambling is an offence.

http://www.gambleaware.co.uk

Clicking on the download button will lead to the installation of Windows compatible casino software on your PC, which will enable you to register and play on our casino platform. The application can be uninstalled completely cleanly using the normal remove programs options in Windows. No functions of the software will remain after an uninstallation.

Uninstall Instructions|User Agreement

Read more here:

Everything You Need to Know About Real Roulette Strategy - blog.casino.com

Going on holiday in summer last year involved quarantine roulette, as countries were dramatically added or removed from the naughty list for Britons returning home.

As if that wasnt fun enough, summer 2021 saw the addition of a new level to the game: Covid test roulette, which it seems hopefully the government is on the verge of simplifying today.

If the shake-up does arrive it would be wise to focus on what we want from testing, because the system whereby people need to get tested but cant use the abundance of free NHS testing we have in the UK seems bizarre.

Sadly, any move will be too late for the families who paid hundreds of pounds for tests to go on holiday over the summer, but it wasnt just the financial cost that was the problem, it was working out what you needed and who you could trust.

Travelling over summer meant playing a game of Covid test roulette, as holidaymakers tried to work out what they needed and which provider they could trust

The game went like this:Could you navigate your way through the maze of testing requirements for different countries on return to the UK, get the right ones before you go, work out if your kids need them, and pick a provider that will actually get you your certificates when you need them?

Did you need a PCR or lateral flow to get out of the country, could you pick the right test, get the result in time, avoid getting ripped off, get the right test to come back, and did you then need a Day 2 and a Day 8 PCR, and a Day 5 Test to Release one?

These all fun questions you could frantically ask yourself, as you pored over endless Gov.uk and foreign country web pages, sifted through the test providers, and mentally totted up how much this is going to cost, while wondering where youll slip up

This came in addition to quarantine roulette, which this year arrived with colour coded levels for extra entertainment these may change or a whole new one could be invented and the ultimate booby prize of ten nights in a quarantine hotel.

That it actually got harder this year to escape Britains dismal summer for some European sunshine is somewhat depressing, considering that this time last year vaccines hadnt even been invented, whereas now almost 80 per cent of the adult population have had both their coronavirus jabs.

But, I suppose in a way its understandable. This time last year many thought we were out of the woods and we werent, we know more now about variants, and the memory of the brutal second wave and harsh January lockdown is fresh in peoples minds.

A trip to amber-listed Portugal for a family of four with two double-jabbed adults involved lateral flow tests to leave and come back for the adults and PCRs all round on Day 2 at home

Whats galling is that once again the Government delivered a slice of confusing public policy and then stepped back for private enterprise to wander in and rinse people.

We are repeatedly told that Britain has some of the best Covid testing capacity in the world. And that seems true: unlike the early days of the pandemic, its very easy to get coronavirus tested nowadays.

Lots of us have boxes of free lateral flow tests the Government gives out and its easy to get a PCR test.

A lateral flow test result is almost instant and the NHS will typically get your PCR test result back in a day or so.

Yet, despite this surfeit of testing capability, you arent allowed to use NHS tests to travel.

If you rock up at the airport in the UK with an NHS text or test result on your app, the airline has been told not to let you fly, and when you come back into the country you need to have booked at least a Day 2 PCR test with a private provider in advance.

Into the breach has stepped a host of private companies: some providing a very good service and some not; some charging fairly and some charging what seem to be highly inflated prices.

And its up to you to not only fork out a small fortune on tests hoping youve read the rules right but to work out which of these providers to trust.

Portugal is on the amber list, for which the UKs return requirements are the same for each country.

However, individual countries may have different requirements for Britons to fly out there.

In our case it was a lateral flow test no more than 48 hours before arriving in Portugal.

On return we required a lateral flow test no more than 72 hours before landing back in the UK and then a Day 2 PCR.

So, how did it all work? We booked the tests on Qureds website, where there was a menu of Fit to Fly, Return to Fly, and different day PCR tests.

The lateral flow tests to fly out to Portugal and back to the UK for my wife required us to book a video appointment, where we were connected with one of the companys representatives who watched us do the test and then got us to write the time, date and a reference number on the test cassette.

Then 15 minutes later we had to send a photo of it next to our passports.

We breathed a sigh of relief as our tests came back negative and then another one when a couple of hours later we got fit to fly certificates issued confirming this.

Overall, it was a relatively simple and good service.

One Day 2 of being home our PCR tests arrived and all four of us did one. They were sent back on a Friday and on Tuesday afternoon two of us had results but the other two didnt get them until Wednesday.

You arent required to isolate while waiting for the PCR results. (And I had a lateral flow test at work the day after I got back anyway.)

To fly we also needed proof of our double vaccination status and to fill in passenger locator forms online for both Portugal and the UK.

The UK one needed a reference number proof that we had Day 2 PCR tests booked.

Documents were checked by easyJets check in staff we checked in a suitcase, so it was done at the desk and at Portuguese passport control.

We flew from Luton to Faro and back and considering we checked in a bag and our childrens ages mean we cant use epassport gates, the queues, waiting and hassle were not noticeably worse than usual but we did fly out on a Sunday and back on a Wednesday.

Theres been some horror stories of queues and red tape over the summer holidays. We got lucky and avoided thet, but I would imagine now for travel outside the school holidays, hassle should hopefully be at a minimum.

As a personal example, I decided to brave escaping the country for a family holiday in Portugal.

Both my wife and I are double jabbed, so didnt need to quarantine for five days when we reached Portugal and our two children are young enough not to as well (this quarantine rule has been lifted since we went).

However, we did need a PCR or lateral flow test before we went, within 72 or 48 hours, respectively. We wouldnt need this if we had an EU digital Covid vaccination certificate, but for some reason the UK and EU cant work out a reciprocal arrangement between our app and theirs.

Because Portugal is on the amber list, both adults (but not the kids who are under ten) then needed to do a PCR or lateral flow test no more than 72 hours before flying back to the UK.

We didnt have to quarantine or do a Day 8 or Day 5 Test to Release Test because we are double jabbed, but all four of us do had to do a Day 2 PCR test, which must be booked before arrival back in the UK.

Yet, while waiting for this and its result we could wander about freely.

Even with us having covered the travel situation and to-ing and fro-ing extensively on This is Money, working out what we needed to do was a real headache.

The next step was finding a provider that doesnt charge too much, but also seems to provide a quality service. This, after all, is not the place for false economies.

My research led me to a firm called Qured: it does the pre-departure lateral flow tests we need in the UK and Portugal with video verification appointments for 39 each and Day 2 PCR tests for 69 each.

Those costs are at the reasonable end of the market but not the absolute cheapest. However, cheapest isnt always best.

To find out more, I spoke to Qureds boss Alex Templeton, who explained that the cost comes from the service it is providing: ranging from couriering out tests to get to people on time, to the online appointments, customer service, a commitment to help if anything goes wrong, and the lab cost that PCR tests involve.

All that sounds imminently reasonable, what is annoying for many people is that the government has created a situation where people are having to pay all this when free testing is abundant in the UK.

Ive had to do covid testing for two other things this summer: going to matches at Euro 2020 and to a festival called Standon Calling.

For both you could use the free NHS tests. The former was a bit of an honesty box system, you did a lateral flow test and registered if you were negative or positive on the NHS app, the latter involved a free test but recorded live on video and a photo of the result submitted it cost 4 each.

Perhaps if want to go on holiday then there is an argument that you should have to pay for a test, but that is dramatically undermined by the scenes we have seen this summer with some private testing letting people down and the wide range of charging.

Because if its a good idea to test people for public health reasons, then surely you should take advantage of your supposedly world-class testing capabilities rather than shove them into a pricey and confusing private system.

Unless, of course, the real aim of the game was to use a dash of heavy duty nudge theory to shove people away from going on holiday.

Some links in this article may be affiliate links. If you click on them we may earn a small commission. That helps us fund This Is Money, and keep it free to use. We do not write articles to promote products. We do not allow any commercial relationship to affect our editorial independence.

The rest is here:

Holidays Have Meant Playing Covid Test Roulette, It's Time It Stops - Todayuknews - Todayuknews

When you play roulette, you are taking part in a game of chance in which no one knows where the little ball will end up. However, you can improve your chances of winning by fully understanding the roulette odds and payouts that are involved.

The first thing worth mentioning here is that you will find both American and European versions of this classic table game. The main difference between them is that the American variant has two zero pockets instead of one (0 and 00). This means that the roulette table odds are lower in European games, making the decision to play European versions one of our top casino rules.

The second factor to take into account is that the odds vary according to the bet that you choose. If you choose a single number, then the chances of winning are 36 to 1 in European-style games, and 37 to 1 if you play an American version. The payout, in either case, is 35 to 1.

Yet, if you decide to put your stake on red or black, the odds of the right colour coming up are close to 50%, and the payout is on a 1:1 basis. It is the presence of the zero, or zeros in American games, that stops this being a straight 50% chance of coming up.

Therefore, you should consider, first of all, how adventurous you want to be. Do you want a bet that has the best chance of winning you a small amount, or would you prefer to look for higher roulette odds on a type of wager that is less likely to come up?

To help you make your decision, we can now look at all the roulette payouts and how they are different on a variety of bets.

Roulette payouts are affected by the odds we just looked at, as the wagers with the lowest chance of coming up also have the highest payouts. If you are using a roulette strategy, this will help you to see which kind of wager to use and where to place your casino chips.

For example, progressive strategies will often use the bets with the best possibility of winning and the lowest payout. On the other hand, someone who hopes to win a lot of money in few spins might decide to look for the biggest payouts, regardless of the high odds of this wager coming up.

Therefore, we can say that the best bet in roulette would be one that gives the odds you are happy accepting and a payout you feel is worth it. This will vary from one person to the next, and even the same person may feel like placing very different bets from one day to the next.

These are tables that show how much you would win if you correctly predicted the outcome of a spin of the wheel. The following roulette pay table shows some of the payouts you will typically find when playing roulette.

As you can see, the roulette payouts for each bet are slightly lower than the odds of the bet coming in. This is where the house edge comes from, as the zero pocket(s) skews the odds slightly in favour of the casino. It also allows us to work out the RTP in the same way as on slots.

More complex bets, such as called bets, are a little more difficult to calculate on a roulette payout chart like this, as you generally place several chips across a series of numbers. The payout varies on these wagers, depending upon which of the chosen numbers the ball lands on.

As shown in the roulette odds chart, the odds and payout of each bet vary by roughly the same amount in each case. What this means is that there is no single bet that is significantly better than others in terms of the return vs the odds.

It could eventually come down to whether you are comfortable going through a sequence of losing spins before winning, or whether you would feel happier with low odds that mean you should win a fairly small amount more regularly.

By understanding the subject of roulette odds and payouts, you can start to choose your wagers more wisely and find a strategy that works for you.

Did you know that the house edge in roulette has changed over the years? It first changed when Francois and Lois Blanc added a zero to the wheel in 1842. It changed again later in the century when American casinos added a second zero, taking the number of numbers from 37 to 38.

Read the original here:

Roulette Odds and How to Improve Your Chances of Winning - blog.casino.com