Featured Editorials

At a time when many in the casino industry and on Wall Street are waxing cautious about the coming year, Century Casinos is upbeat. It recently forecast a 10 percent revenue upsurge for 2025. This confidence seems at least partly justified by new, Century-built product in certain of its markets, but there may be more to the story. And who better to ask than CEO Peter Hoetzinger?

Casino Life recently sat down with Hoetzinger, with the recent U.S. presidential election (which he discussed) fresh in mind. It’s a time of flux, not just politically but for Century itself, which has made significant capital-reinvestment commitments to its U.S. properties. It’s also ramping up in Canada and attempting to make a polite exit from Poland, although the market is making that difficult. (Yes, Hoetzinger very candidly explains that, too.)

Virgin Las Vegas has changes in store for 2025, President Cliff Atkinson says. By Ryan Slattery

Virgin Hotels Las Vegas’ original debut was pandemic-delayed. The resort opened somewhat quietly in March 2021, but over the past couple of years has built a loyal local following. Last year’s Formula One race thrust the property into the spotlight, with many visitors rediscovering the property. Cliff Atkinson, president of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, called it a “re-coming out party.”

Valley View Casino is connecting with guests and team members. By David Ross

California has more tribal casinos than any other state and San Diego County has more than any other county in the Golden State. At or near the top of any listing of the best casino hotels in San Diego County is Valley View Casino & Hotel, set in the small, picturesque and rural community of Valley Center. It proudly lists itself as “San Diego’s Favorite Casino.”
The resort recently completed a $50 million renovation. This small but luxurious hotel has always  been renowned for its floor-to-ceiling windows and 520-square-foot, deluxe rooms with awesome vistas of Palomar Mountain— which is often covered foot to crown with snow in winter months.

Hippodrome Casino’s Simon Thomas sets ambitious goals for the London jewel. By Peter White