As with so many locations in the Caribbean, the formation of Guadeloupe is slightly more complex than you might initially imagine. It is actually made up of six inhabited islands, which are namely Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Marie-Galante, La Désirade, and the Îles des Saintes. There are also other uninhabited islands and areas that make up the archipelago of Guadeloupe.
It is actually an overseas territory of France, which means that French gambling law applies to the country. Since 1988 all forms of table games and electronic gaming machines are legal in the country, whilst online gambling is not. This is because gambling at brick and mortar casinos is seen as less addictive than its online cousin, so there are less restrictions on it.
Guadeloupe Casino List
Guadeloupe
At the time of writing, Guadeloupe boasts just two casinos that you can visit when you’re in the area. They offer similar things to each other but are different enough to make it worthwhile seeing what’s on offer at both if you’re a completist. Here’s a look at them both:
Casino de Saint-François
Located on the island of Grande-Terre is the Casino de Saint-François. It can be found in the city of the same name, and it open from three in the afternoon until three in the morning. The casino is for people aged twenty-one and over and has what is described as a ‘casual’ dress code, which means that you can’t wear shorts but you don’t need to wear a jacket and tie.
The gaming floor promises visitors ninety-one electronic gaming machines, which boast modern slot games as well as the likes of video poker and electronic roulette. You can also play both European and American roulette games on physical tables if you’d prefer. Added to that is the chance to get involved with blackjack on one of the other of four tables.
Some of the slot machines are linked to a progressive jackpot, meaning that decent numbers can be reached for those that enjoy getting involved in the slots. The likes of IGT and Novomatic are responsible for the slot games, so there’s a chance you’ll recognise some of them. There’s a piano bar and a restaurant on site, should you wish to get a drink or a bite to eat whilst there.
Casino de Gosier
Also located on the island of Grande-Terre is the Casino de Gosier, which tends to be much more popular with locals. That is in spite of the fact that it is probably in need of a good refurbishment now. The slot machines, of which there are many, are open from ten in the morning and last through until the early hours every day.
If you’re not a fan of slot machines then you don’t need to worry as there are also plenty of table games that you can play. Blackjack and roulette are the most popular, with three-card poker also available. The island’s relationship with poker is a keen one, given that the Casino de Gosier is where to head if you want to get involved in some Texas Hold’em poker tournaments.
When you want to take a break from the gaming floor then you’ll be able to head to the on site bar or the buffet restaurant. As with the Casino de Saint-François, the legal age for gambling is twenty-one so you might need to take your passport with you to prove your age. Make sure you’re wearing something relatively smart, given shorts aren’t allowed.