MACAU - When midnight chimed in Macau on Wednesday, 29 casinos reopened their doors following a 15-day suspension of activities. The only thing missing though was…patrons.
While journalists were keen to cover the return to gaming, the gamblers failed to show.
Inside, too, things were different. New restrictions inside the casinos dictate that a maximum of half the number of tables may be opened. These and the slot machines, must be spaced apart.
Baccarat tables seating seven may only seat three or four at the same time. Visitors must sit one seat away from the dealer and are forbidden to bet standing up.
Twelve casinos opted to extend the 30-day suspension of business.
Many hotels run satellite casinos operated by one of the six concessionaires, five of which have said they will resume operations in phases according to market conditions. For example, some may run fewer than 24 operating hours per day.