Moderation in the Landdofexcess

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Let's face it, when you're visiting a lavish gambling destination like Las Vegas or Macau, you're there for the excess. In Vegas in particular, being over the top is really the name of the game, and not only in the absurdist hotel architecture and outrageous decor. The buffets, whether in one of the bargain off-strip casinos or relatively down-at-heels downtown, or at the ultra-upscale Bellagio, are living panoramas of wretched excess. How much cheap prime rib and shrimp can a person eat?

The other kind of excessive consumption associated with Vegas is, of course, of the alcoholic variety. Not only are there many fine -- or at least constantly open -- bars throughout the town and in every hotel casino, but they actually bring you complementary drinks at the table.

The good news is that they tend to be small and a bit watered down. We know you're there to have fun but, when you're playing for serious poker chips, being weighed down by a gigantic, fat laden meal and too much booze is not the greatest idea, particularly if you're the type who gets a bit reckless under the influence. Many casinos make it all too easy for foolish folks to chase after losses by obtaining high interest -- more like criminally usurious -- credit card cash advances.

It might be tempting to do this to replenish your dwindling supply of cheap poker chips, but think twice. Actually, think a hundred times. The secret to avoiding disaster at gaming destination is to set limits on how much you can lose. You should look at a gambling loss much as you look at, say, the costs associated with skiing. But if you're maxing out your credit cards and accruing absurd interest in the process, you've gone beyond a bit of healthy frivolity and into a very dangerous place. In other words, give yourself some time to digest your food and switch from booze to coffee and you might actually win some poker chips or, worst case, have a little fun. Just know when it's time to call it a night and find something other than gambling to do for fun.