As GGRAsia reports, top-tier casino corporation Galaxy Entertainment Group announced a soft opening of its newest hotel brand Raffles at Galaxy Macau on 16 August. The soft opening will reportedly represent an introductory event for the grand opening ceremony scheduled to be held by the end of 2023.
Market Entry Milestone:
The launch of Raffles at Galaxy Macau will also represent the Macau market entry for the globally popular Raffles brand. According to the same source, the accommodation for the selected guests is already available at the resort while Inside Asian Gaming (IAG) reports that the new hotel will feature approximately 450 luxury suites, as well as a Mediterranean-themed garden, luxurious pool, spa, fine dining restaurants, and other amenities.
Soft Opening:
IAG also reports that Galaxy Macau will facilitate an exclusive “first look” at several dining facilities still this month. The teaser will reportedly continue in August to culminate with the soft opening event set for August 16. As reported, Galaxy will use the milestone to reveal further details on the property’s developments and features ahead of the grand opening. The company reportedly said: “A grand opening, celebrating the addition of the remaining signature restaurants, bar, and a spa, is expected towards the end of the year.”
Property Features:
Raffles at Galaxy Macau reportedly features a glass air-bridge which connects the hotel’s two towers. It is expected that the features available at every floor will enhance the guests’ experience. As reported by IAG, the experience will be further boosted by the aforementioned Mediterranean garden, exclusive bars and restaurants, topped with the signature of Chef and Sushi Master Masaaki Miyakawa, one of only five sushi chefs in Japan recognized with three Michelin stars.
Latest Raffles Development:
Other signatures will reportedly include the cocktail brand ‘Macau Sling’ complementing the famous ‘Singapore Sling’ of the brand’s historic Long Bar from the original Raffles hotel in Singapore. IAG reports that Galaxy described the Macau’s Long Bar facility as a “very unexpected and modern take on the 108-year-old heritage gin bar.” According to the same source, Raffles at Galaxy Macau will be the latest hotel of the Raffles global portfolio consisting of 18 elite properties at prestigious locations including London and Paris.
Setting Property in Motion:
The soft opening of the property is scheduled for August 16. As GGRAsia reports, the invited customers seem to include only some gambling patrons, while the public opening on August 16 is announced as ‘soft’ since the company is currently building up the workforce to be ready to set the property in full motion immediately upon the grand opening milestone.
The legal status of online casinos in India is complex and varies by state. While there is no federal law that explicitly addresses online gambling, the legality depends on state regulations and the type of gambling involved.
Key Points:
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No National Law: India does not have a specific national law regulating online casinos. However, the Public Gambling Act of 1867 prohibits operating physical casinos and gambling houses, but it doesn't cover online platforms, leaving a legal grey area for online gambling.
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State-Specific Laws: Some Indian states, like Goa, Sikkim, and Daman, have legalized land-based casinos, and others, such as Sikkim, have also licensed online gambling. Many states have banned gambling altogether, including online gambling.
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Online Sports Betting: Betting on sports, particularly cricket, is very popular in India. However, it's only explicitly legal in some states like Sikkim and Nagaland, which have laws permitting online gaming and betting.
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Legal Gray Area: Many international online casinos accept Indian players and operate legally under licenses from offshore jurisdictions (like Curacao or the UK Gambling Commission). As long as players are gambling on licensed platforms, the risk is minimal, but local authorities may still choose to regulate or restrict online gambling.
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Cryptocurrency: Some Indian players prefer using cryptocurrencies (like Bitcoin) for online gambling, as it provides a layer of anonymity and security.
While online casinos aren't explicitly legal across all of India, many international casinos accept Indian players, and online gambling continues to grow in popularity. Players should ensure they use licensed platforms and understand local laws before engaging in online gaming.
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