Grand Casino Liechtenstein Prepares for Arrival of World Poker Tour

Grand Casino Liechtenstein to Host World Poker Tour Event

The World Poker Tour (WPT) is proving that the anti-gambling crowd in Liechtenstein shouldn't stand in its way. By hosting a poker tournament series at the Grand Casino Liechtenstein starting at the end of the month, WPT is exhibiting its global reach and reputation.

The small European country, which is sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, as well as the casino, will be the spot where poker enthusiasts and professionals gather to display their talents and luck on the tables. The WPT Prime Lichtenstein will run from August 30 to September 11.

At the start of the year, a group of anti-gambling voices, called IG VolksMeinung, tried to ban casinos in Liechtenstein. They aimed to gain public support, but didn't succeed.

One Million Good Reasons to Go to Liechtenstein

In poker tournament tradition, the Main Event is likely to be the highlight. There's a CHF1 million (US$1.13 million) prize pool on offer against a CHF1,100 (US$1,251) buy-in, making it easy to understand why.

The Main Event has six starting flights on September 6. The second day, September 10, will feature Day 2, followed by the final table on September 11.

For players who want a warm-up or cheaper options, there are plenty to pick from. These include:

There are also online satellite events to compete in throughout the year. WPT Global is offering Passport Qualifiers for those who want a chance to play at a live event. The buy-in for these is $110 and they run every Saturday and Sunday. The winners receive a package worth up to $1,500, depending on the event and location.

Hop to the Bahamas, If You'd Prefer

For American players who can't make it to Liechtenstein, or who don't want to, there's something closer to home later in the year. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has announced its plans for the WSOP Paradise series in the Bahamas.

This is the first in the WSOP's aim to create a regular series. It takes place at Atlantis Paradise Island from December 3-14. There will be 15 bracelet events and more than $50 million in guaranteed cash up for grabs.

Event buy-ins start at $800 for the Flip & Go, with no set prize pool, and go up to $100K for the Ultra High Roller event, which has a $5 million guarantee.

The Main Event is a $5,000 buy-in tournament with a $15 million prize pool guarantee. The WSOP hopes for good weather to avoid an overlay. WSOP is working with GGPoker, which will be giving away Main Event packages through its online poker site. There will be 1,000 available, each including 11-night accommodation, meal passes, and the $5,000 Main Event buy-in.