My name is Helen Himes, and I’ve spent the better part of my life chasing down stories, strategies, and the thrills of the casino world. I never imagined this would be my career path, but here I am, living in Canada, writing about the very thing that has fascinated me for years: casinos.
Growing up, I was always a curious child. I loved puzzles, challenges, and anything that tested my mind. My family lived in a small town just outside of Toronto, where we spent our weekends playing cards or solving jigsaw puzzles. Little did I know, those simple pastimes were planting the seeds for what would later become my passion for casinos.
I attended university with the intention of becoming a journalist. Back then, I thought I’d be covering hard-hitting news stories or writing for a fashion magazine. I never saw the world of gambling as anything more than a casual activity. My parents were responsible, so they took us to Las Vegas once when I was in my early 20s, mostly for the shows and the sights. I played a few games of blackjack at the casino, and even though I lost more than I won, the energy of the place stayed with me.
After graduating, I worked as a freelance writer for various publications. I wrote about everything from lifestyle topics to local events, but nothing really sparked that fire in me. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon a small casino blog looking for writers that I found my niche. They wanted someone who could break down complex casino games into easy-to-understand guides for beginners, and I thought, “Why not?”
That first article was about blackjack, a game I had some familiarity with from my Vegas trip. The more I researched, the more fascinated I became with the intricacies of card games, roulette, and even slot machines. I realized that casinos are more than just places of chance—they are worlds of strategy, excitement, and endless possibilities.
As I delved deeper, I discovered that writing about casinos was a way to marry my love for storytelling with my analytical mind. I didn’t just want to report on games or review casinos; I wanted to tell the stories behind them—the history of iconic casinos, the evolution of gambling laws in Canada, and the psychology of why people play. There’s something inherently human about the act of gambling—whether it’s the hope of striking it rich or the joy of the game itself—and I find that endlessly fascinating.
Over the years, my writing has taken me all across Canada, from the grand casinos of Vancouver to the more intimate settings in Quebec. I’ve met high-rollers, casino managers, and everyday people just like me who find joy in the world of gambling. I’ve written about the best payout casinos, the allure of live dealer games, and how to approach casino bonuses with a smart strategy. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve learned that there’s always something new to discover.
Living in Canada has been a huge advantage for my career. The gambling scene here is vibrant, with its own unique flavor compared to other countries. I’ve had the opportunity to visit some of the best casinos across the provinces, and each one tells its own story. The online casino industry has also boomed in Canada, and I’ve found myself diving into that world, too, writing guides, reviews, and tips for players looking to get the most out of their online experiences.
My days now consist of research, writing, and occasionally playing a few hands of poker online—strictly for research purposes, of course! I’m always on the lookout for the next great story, whether it’s a new casino opening or an exciting bonus offer. I’ve become somewhat of a resource for friends and family who are curious about gambling. They’ll ask me, “Helen, what’s the best online casino?” or “How do I get the best odds in roulette?” I’m more than happy to share what I’ve learned, though I always remind them to gamble responsibly.
Writing about casinos has allowed me to live a life of adventure without ever leaving my desk—though I do love the occasional trip to the casino floor. It’s more than just writing for me; it’s storytelling, it’s analysis, and it’s sharing a passion with a community that I’ve grown to love.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to make the world of casinos a little less intimidating and a lot more fun for those who are curious about it. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete novice, I hope my work brings you a new perspective on this fascinating world.