Mariam Al-Fayed, a 34-year-old teacher from Alexandria, Egypt, struck unexpected gold at the prestigious Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco, winning €1,500 from a single scratchcard. The win, which occurred on a sunny Tuesday afternoon, added an unexpected twist to her quiet vacation.
From Vacation to Celebration
Mariam was in Monaco for a short educational conference when she decided to visit the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo. Known for its opulent decoration and high-profile clientele, the casino also offers a range of games that cater to casual visitors, which is exactly what drew Mariam to buy a €20 scratchcard.
How the Win Happened
“I always thought these things never happen to ordinary people like me,” Mariam remarked. Purchasing the scratchcard on a whim, she scratched it while sitting at a cafe within the casino, surrounded by the buzz of slot machines and the soft clinking of coffee cups. The symbols on the card aligned perfectly to reveal the €1,500 prize, sending Mariam into a burst of disbelief and joy.
Mariam’s Reaction
“I looked at the card, and then I looked again. It just didn’t seem real,” she said while laughing. Mariam explained how she had to ask a nearby waiter and two other patrons to confirm what she was seeing. “Their excitement confirmed it for me before the staff even did!”
A Bright Spot in a Routine Trip
Mariam was not a frequent gambler. In fact, her trip to the casino was her first gambling experience. “I’m here for a conference on education technology,” she explained. “I just stepped in to get a taste of Monte-Carlo’s famous luxury scene. I never imagined I’d win something.”
What the Winner Said
“I feel incredibly lucky; this was the most unexpected part of my trip!” she exclaimed. Mariam shared that she has always been cautious with money, saving most of her income as a teacher. “This win feels like a little blessing, a chance to splurge a bit without feeling guilty,” she admitted with a smile.
Casino Staff Reacts
The staff at Casino de Monte-Carlo were equally excited about Mariam’s win. “We love seeing our guests win, especially when it’s as unexpected as this,” commented one of the casino managers. “It’s not every day someone turns a casual visit into a winning moment with just a €20 scratchcard.”
Plans for the Winnings
When asked about her plans for the winnings, Mariam already had ideas. “I will probably treat myself to a little shopping here in Monaco, and the rest will go towards a new project I’m planning for my students,” she shared earnestly. Mariam is keen on integrating more technology into her classroom and sees this money as a means to further enrich her students’ learning experiences.
Immediate Celebrations
For immediate celebrations, Mariam planned to dine at one of Monaco’s finest restaurants. “A good meal seems like the perfect way to celebrate this small fortune,” she chuckled.
Key Takeaways
Mariam Al-Fayed’s win at Casino de Monte-Carlo highlights how even the smallest gambles can sometimes lead to significant joy. It also underscores the welcoming atmosphere of casinos like Monte-Carlo, where every guest can feel like a VIP, regardless of their gambling prowess.
FAQ
Can anyone buy a scratchcard at Casino de Monte-Carlo?
Yes, visitors can purchase various scratchcards at the casino, no prior gambling experience is needed.
What are the chances of winning from a scratchcard at Monte-Carlo?
While the odds vary per game, all scratchcard games are designed to give random and fair chances to every player.
What should visitors do if they win?
Winners should immediately contact a casino staff member who will guide them through the process of claiming their prize securely and legally.
Mariam’s story is a beautiful reminder of the joy and surprise that awaits in the world of gambling, even for those who play it safe.
