Day: May 9, 2025

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games. It’s more engaging than a slot machine and less complex than poker. It’s also a great way to practice basic strategy and build up your confidence before hitting the tables for real money. While many people consider blackjack to be a game for novices, it’s actually a very versatile card game that can appeal to players of all skill levels.

Generally speaking, the object of blackjack is to draw cards with totals closer to 21 (without going over) than those of the dealer. Number cards count as their face value, the jack, queen, and king (“picture cards”) count as 10, and aces can be counted as either 1 or 11, depending on whether counting it as 11 would make your hand too strong. A hand of 21 on the starting two cards is known as a “blackjack” and pays out 3 to 2.

After all the players have had their turn, the dealer will reveal his or her face-down card. If the dealer has an ace up, the players may place a side bet called insurance that is half their original wager. The dealer will then check their hole card for a ten. If they have a ten, the player gets paid 2 to 1 on their insurance bet and the game ends.

If the dealer doesn’t have a ten, they will then follow a specific rule for drawing additional cards. This is often a matter of tradition and will vary between casinos. For example, some places will only allow the dealer to hit a hand valued at 16 or lower, while others will only allow them to stand on a hand of 17 or higher.

Once the dealer’s hand is complete, the players will compare their hands to the dealer’s. If a player has a better hand than the dealer’s, the dealer will sweep the player’s bet and pay them one times their wager. If both the player and the dealer have a hand-total of 21, it’s called a push and the players get their original bet back.

The house edge in blackjack is around 1% when played by an expert, and it can be significantly reduced with the use of proper strategy. Novices, on the other hand, tend to play their hands too conservatively and will miss opportunities to double down and split pairs when they should have done so. This leads to a large amount of money being lost to the house, especially in high-value hands such as a pair of 3s against a dealer’s 4.

Hong Kong’s summer heat is intense and it’s no secret that a swim is the perfect way to cool down. Luckily, public swimming pools are available across the city, offering a quick respite from the steamy weather. Plus, they’re pretty affordable – adult admission is only HK$17 during the week and HK$19 on weekends and public holidays. And, if you’re travelling with the family, concession rates are available for children and seniors.

So, whether you’re in need of a quick dip or looking to spend some time relaxing, these 10 hongkong pools will surely make your day.

Located on the 76th floor of W Hong Kong, this rooftop pool is surrounded by stunning views of the city’s skyline. The large outdoor infinity pool and smaller jacuzzi-pool are both perfect for cooling off and have ample seating, deckchairs and a bar where you can lounge, sip cocktails and enjoy the ambiance. And, of course, there’s also high-speed WiFi to keep you connected.

The swanky Harbour Grand Kowloon’s outdoor pool is the perfect place to soak up some sunshine and unwind after a busy day exploring Hong Kong. The glass-walled pool overlooks Victoria Harbour and is surrounded by cozy chaise lounging options, a whirlpool and a poolside bar. The best part? It’s open to guests staying at the hotel and HP Club Members.

If you’re looking for a swimming pool with a bit of history, the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Swimming Pool is the spot for you. The pool complex was opened in 2011 and has an art deco design inspired by the 1920s. From the marble Roman columns to the striped lounge chairs, it’s like something straight out of a Gatsby movie. Plus, the water is a refreshing 37 degrees Celsius – a perfect temperature for swimming.

With a pool view like this, it’s no wonder the pool at Island Shangri-La gets an A+ in our book! Smack-dab in the heart of Central, this outdoor pool offers sweeping views of some of Hong Kong’s most iconic skyscrapers. Plus, with the avenue of palm trees, umbrella-lined lounge chairs and massive pool, you’ll feel like you’re vacationing at a beachside resort.

If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong, don’t forget to pack your Octupus card, which can be used on all public transport, including the MTR and public swimming pools, that require a fee on entry. You’ll also want to pick up a public swimming pool monthly ticket, which is only HK$150 and includes half price admission for seniors. And if you’re travelling with the family, don’t forget to pack some floaties and water toys for your little ones!