Gambling is a game that relies both on skill and fate, and for that reason cultures around the world have adapted different rituals that increase their luck – or perhaps they are just tricks to keep their mind at ease while betting. Let’s look at some of the most popular superstitions per country:
- Sitting or standing at slot machines (USA): Some Americans prefer standing up while playing at the slots even if it means being more uncomfortable if doing it for long periods of time. The reason is because they feel that standing up will somehow show the machine that they are ready to walk away, unless it starts paying out to keep them playing.
- Taking a horseshoe with you (Spain): A superstition dating back hundreds of years, Spanish people use horseshoes to keep bad luck away as they are made of iron which is considered to keep the evil spirits away and help them win at the games.
- Find your lucky seat (UK): More than finding the most comfortable spot, British gamblers attribute special seats to their luck – usually one that gave them a good run of play at their favorite game.
- Elephant charm (India): In Indian culture, elephants are considered great symbols of luck and fortune, so taking a small elephant charm with them will make it feel like their chances of success will increase at the casino.
- Taking a Nazar (or “evil eye”) with you (Turkey): These glass symbols of luck are worn for good luck on different clothes and accessories, such as earrings or bracelets. They are believed to protect bettors by capturing the negative energy of those wishing you misfortune.
- Lucky number 13 (Italy): While some cultures consider the number 13 to be cursed, Italians actually consider it to be lucky. In fact, they even call winning a jackpot “fare il tredici” which means “making the 13”.