Casino Shangri La Guide and Review
Located in the heart of Minsk, Belarus, Shangri La Casino presents itself as a premier gambling destination. However, user reviews offer a varied picture, highlighting both commendable aspects and significant drawbacks that potential visitors should be aware of before stepping through its doors.
The Upsides ✨
For some patrons, Shangri La Casino delivers on professionalism and comfort, particularly during less busy periods.
- Professional and Cordial Staff: Reviewers consistently praise the staff for being very professional and communicative. Their cordiality contributes positively to the overall experience.
- Complimentary Drinks: A notable perk mentioned by satisfied guests is the availability of a wide selection of drinks on the house, provided you are actively playing.
- Relaxed Atmosphere (During Weekdays/Nights): The casino is often described as not usually busy during weekdays and weeknights, which can be ideal for those seeking a quieter, more focused gaming experience or a relaxed evening.
- Overall Experience: Some visitors have had "best memories in Minsk," describing it as a "perfect place for good rest, delicious food and interesting game."
Points of Concern 💸
Despite the positives, several critical issues have been raised, primarily concerning entry policies and the overall ambiance.
- High Entry Barrier and Commission: A major deterrent reported by one visitor was an alleged requirement to buy in $5,000 USD worth of casino chips to enter on a "special day," coupled with a 4% commission for cashing out. This effectively translated into a substantial entry fee. This policy, if recurring, is a significant barrier.
- Questionable Ambiance and Decor: Some describe the place as "awful," "almost empty," and having a "fake posh looking" vibe. Critics suggest it feels stuck "in the past century," referencing outdated aspects like the staff's attire.
- High Minimum Bets: The minimum bet can be quite high, with one reviewer noting it to be $25, which might be prohibitive for casual gamblers or those on a tighter budget.
- Comfort Level: The environment was described as "not the place you'll feel comfortable to gamble and have a drink with friends" by one reviewer, indicating a potential lack of inviting social atmosphere for some.
Important Considerations for Visitors 📝
- Entry Requirements: Be prepared for potentially steep entry requirements, especially on claimed "special days," which might involve a significant chip buy-in and subsequent commission fees upon cashing out. It is advisable to inquire about these policies in advance.
- Minimum Bets: Understand that the minimum bets can be relatively high (e.g., $25), which caters to high-stakes players rather than casual gamblers.
- Atmosphere: Expect a generally quiet atmosphere, particularly on weekdays. The overall decor and vibe might not appeal to everyone, with some finding it dated or less genuinely luxurious than anticipated.
- Target Audience: Shangri La Casino appears to cater more towards serious gamblers looking for free drinks and professional service in a less crowded setting, rather than those seeking a vibrant, social casino experience.
Final Verdict 🤔
Shangri La Casino in Minsk appears to be a place with a clear dichotomy. While it boasts professional staff and attractive perks like complimentary drinks for players, it faces criticism for its potentially high entry barriers, dated atmosphere, and high minimum bets. If you are a high-roller seeking a quieter gambling environment with attentive service and do not mind the potentially steep financial commitment to enter, it might be worth considering. However, for those looking for a lively, approachable casino experience with lower stakes or a more modern ambiance, other options in Minsk might be more suitable. It's crucial to clarify current entry policies before visiting.
To get in, you had to buy in 5,000 USD worth of casino chips. They claimed it was some special day. Bear in mind that they also have a 4% commission for when you cash out so that's essentially a $200 entry fee. You're better off going somewhere else and letting them have their "special events"
Awful place, almost empty, fake posh looking and definitely not the place you'll feel comfortable to gamble and have a drink with friends. And not necessary to talk about girls dresses. This casino is still in the past century.
Very professional and cordial staff. It's not usually busy during week days and week nights. Have a wide selection of drinks which are on the house as long as you are playing.
Perfect place for good rest, delicious food and interesting game. All personnel is very communicative and professional. Best memories in Minsk.
