You can not fail but to be impressed with the speed that the new casino has gone up in on the Avd Mediterraneo in Benidorm. Work only started in January on the construction and the planned July opening is on track. I met up with the Commercial Director in the Alicante casino yesterday to discuss the progress. He will be responsible for all three of the groups casinos in the region - La Zenia on the Orihuela Costa, Alicante in the port and the new one in Benidorm.
Casino spread across 3 floors
The casino construction is 3,600 square metres, spread across three floors - with underground parking for approximately 350 cars. I asked the Director if he has a definate date for the opening but all he could assure me with is that "it will be in the second half of July". Once contruction is totally complete the interior will be fitted out. It isn´t until this is 100% finished, which includes all machines and tables installed that it can be inspected by various authorities, including Health & Safety for fire risk etc and then the final certificates and operating licences can be issued. It is unfortunate that this happens to fall in July, when most things in Spain are at a go slow pace however I was assured it would be July. The picture gives the architects impression of what it will look like when complete - with the tall structure behind the planned new hotel, which is a future project! I must say, when you compare it to the actual photograph it´s a pretty acurate impression.
Gamblers delight
The ground floor will house an exhibition centre which will be used to exhibit works by local artists as well as hosting presentations, cinema screenings and literature evenings - which would normally take place in the "Casa de Cultura", but as Benidorm does not currently have one this is fantastic news. There will also be an area exclusively allocated for Texas Hold´Em tournaments. The main casino gaming area will be on the first floor - there will be 60 one armed bandit slot machines plus tables for American Roulette, Black Jack, Poker and Texas Hold´Em - which will have lift access for those unable to use stairs.
Casino Entry requirements
On the second floor there will be a restaurant serving cuisine from across the world and a beautiful sun terrace. The casino will be employing 70 people, ranging from croupiers, bar and restaurant staff, cleaners, reception personel and security staff. The casino will be open from 10am until 4am seven days a week but there are some very important conditions for those wanting to go. Entry is FREE but original photo ID is required - preferably your passport but they will accept a photo driving licence and as is expected, no under 18´s are allowed in. Most important though is the dress code - no shorts or swimwear are permitted. Men MUST either wear three quarter or preferably full lenght trousers/jeans. Watch this space for a definate opening date...
