Greetings from Macau where the blend of different cultures as well as history makes an interesting story. Though located on the southern shore of China, Macau has a different cultural mark as it was a Portuguese colony many years ago, giving the people an interesting blend of Europe as well as Asian traits. That being said, whether it’s the history, the casinos, or even the food, this 3 days itinerary is here for everyone who wishes to make the most of their visit in Macau.
Macau (also spelled Macao) is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. Located across the Pearl River estuary from Hong Kong, Macau is about 62 kilometers from Hong Kong within 1 hour’s transfer. Macau is geographically divided into four parts – Macau Peninsula, Taipa, Cotai and Coloane. It is once of the earliest European colonies in Asia (a colony of the Portuguese Empire for 400 years) and the last to be relinquished (1999) and thus has a more visible colonial history than Hong Kong. Known as “Los Vegas of Asia”, Macau is indeed an epicenter of gambling and glitz. While luxury entertainment is world-class, Macau has much more to offer than that. So whether you’re into gambling, family fun or European and Asian history, it has something for everyone. Here’s why you should plan a visit. Macau have one only airport and other way to reatch by bus and ship by hongkong then Zhuhai china by bus or air
Macau Visa for Travel: Usually, a Macau visa is required normally for traveling to Macau. But, if you are citizens of specific 79 foreign countries and territories, and visit Macau for short-term tour and business, you may have visa-free entry to Macau. US, UK, Australia, Canada citizens, Indians, Filipinos, Malaysians may get visa exempted for Macau, while passport holders of Pakistan, Vietnam and Nepal must obtain a visa for entry. Read more about Macau Visa Policy – Visa Free, Visa on Arrival and Application
Why not Macau?
Over the years, Macau has developed its image as a hub for professional gambling, but it also boasts a rich history as well. The region was under the Portuguese rule for roughly four hundred years. Such an influence is visible even till this day and marks its significance. The region is currently a popular travel destination.
With 20 other buildings that exemplify the rich interaction of Chines and Portuguese cultures in Macao, the year 2005 also saw the inclusion of the Historic Centre of Macao to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The Structure is the Biggest Gambling Center on Earth. This “gambling capital of the world” caption as Macao is the only “place” China where gambling inside casinos is allowed. According to estimates, it earns a greater amount earning from gambling than any other place around the world. To illustrate, The Strip in Las Vegas is worth a rental income which is more than seven times greater. When in Macao, a visit to a casino appears to be a need to see the atmosphere or try out your fortune.
• Food and Other Amazing Kinds of Food Macanese cuisine is over 400 years old and is a rich result of Portuguese and Chinese culinary traditions. Also, it is a well known place where chefs come from all over the places to showcase their culinary art and dishes to Asia, this made the city a well known name in the list of Creative Cities of Gastronomy by UNESCO. She has an abundance of delicious foods that should not be missed, some of which are already referred to as classic cuisines. Satisfy your food and hunger urges by tasting more food varieties.
• Convene With Hong Kong Within An Hour.
Macau is a well-known addition to the holidays of many travelers coming from Hong Kong as they can reach it quite easily via ferries. Passengers traveling to Macau by ferries have almost 4 terminals in Hong Kong to choose from, which operate on regular schedules. If you choose to visit Macau, it is recommended together with your group that you will take a one-day tour that covers everything there is to love about this wonderful city.
Day 1 – Understanding The Heritage Of Macau
The Morning – Ruins Of St. Paul’s & Senado Square
I suggest starting your trip at the Ruins of St. Paul’s, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Macau. See what used to be the St. Paul’s College and The Church of St. Paul. The site Religious complex has stunning stone sculptures which make for excellent photography opportunities.
Address: Rua de Sao Paulo, Macau
Opening hours: 9 Am – 6 Pm
After that we can go for a leisurely stroll and proceed to the next destination which is the Senado Square. Senado Square is a large paved area located in the middle of the city which has a number of pastel-colored Portuguese buildings surrounding it. You’ll enjoy the shopping and the colorful sights in this area. Shots taken from this region always have great aesthetic appeal.
Address: Largo do Senado, Macau
The Afternoon – Historic Centre Of Macau
After having a great lunch at one of the great eating joints, we’ll head towards the historic center of macau which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we head towards the place we’ll be able to see the exquisite Dom Pedro V Theatre along with the peaceful and tranquil St. Thomas’ church equally enjoyable.
Church of Saint Lawrence.
• Theatre Dom Pedro V
o Location: Largo de Santo Agostinho, Macau
o Time of Opening: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Church of Saint Lawrence
o Location: Rua de Sao Lourenco, Macau
o Time of Opening: 7 AM – 6 PM
Day Ending: Macau Tower
End Day one with sightseeing at the Macau Tower. Having an elevation of approximately three hundred and thirty eight meters above the sea level, it possesses astonishing panoramic views of the city. And if you feel brave enough, you can go for a bungee jump there!
Location: Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau
Time of Opening: 10 AM – 7 PM
Day 2: Culture and food.
Morning: A-Ma temple + Maritime museum.
We start the second day by visiting the old A-Ma temple which is devoted to the goddess Mazu of the sea. The ambience of the temple complex along the temple architecture serves to provide an insight into the much adored realm of Macao spirituality.
Location: Largo do Pagode da Barra, Macau
Time of Opening: 8 AM – 6 PM
Then go to the nearby Maritime museum and explore Pergeneum’s treasured marine treasures.
Location: 1 Largo do Pagode da Barra, Macau
Time of Opening: 10 AM – 6 PM
Lunch: Enjoying the Paginese food.
Macau is made up of a special concoction of Portuguese and Chinese food and can simply not be missed. You can spoil yourself with it after all.
While at Taipa Village, try out the Portuguese egg tarts and the Macanese minced meat dishes at Rua do Cunha.
Recommended Eateries:
– Lord Stow’s Bakery – Renowned for its plethora of egg tarts
– O Santos Restaurante – Specializes in Portuguese cuisines
– Restaurante Litoral – Known for its Macanese and Portuguese fusions
Evening Cotai Strip and Casinos
If you are searching for a venue for entertainment, then check out Cotai Strip. It is famous because of the glamorous casinos and the pulsating nightlife. Take a chance at the Venetian Macao’s casino, get immersed in the gondola rides and the shopping alleys or other casinos like City of Dreams and Galaxy Macau.
Day 3: New Macau
Morning Taipa Houses-Museum & Taipa Village
The last day at Macau begins at Taipa Houses-Museum: a cluster of colonial houses reflecting Portuguese style and they way of life. After that walk around Taipa Village with it’s attractive narrow lanes, shops and tasteful street food Available.
Location: Estr. de Cacilhas, Macau
Working Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
Afternoon Macau Shopping
There is no better way to relax than shopping. Macau is ideal for shopping whether luxury or local handicrafts. Shoppes at Venetian is a good choice for branded goods, Otherwise look for local craft shops.
If you’re looking for some souvenirs or souvenirs, don’t forget to explore the Red Market and the surrounding area of Senado Square.
Buon Voyage Dinner and Stroll at Night in Senado Square
If you are looking to conclude your Macau vacation on a high note, try to have the Farewell Dinner at one of the highly acclaimed Restaurants that the city has to offer. If you want to go for a high end dine-in experience, Robuchon au Dôme is a fine place to go. After having dinner, go for a night excursion around Senado Square while enjoying the lovely night lights.
Location: Grand Lisboa Hotel, Avenida de Lisboa, Macau, Robuchon au Dôme
Hours: 12 PM – 2:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Historical background of Macau
The area has a turbulent past dating back to the years of Portuguese colonialism in the 16th century. Ever since then, the co-existence of Chinese and Portuguese cultures has become very evident in terms of architecture, cuisine, and of the various regional Festivals. Although the foremost language is Cantonese, Portuguese and English are also frequently spoken, hence, almost any foreigner will be able to communicate in Macau. The official currency of the region is the Pataca de Macau (MOP).
Would-Be Useful Information for Travellers to Macau
• A Visa upon arrival is a privilege available to only certain countries, so be sure to check whether or not you’ll have to apply for a visa in advance or prior to your arrival in Macau, or if you can enter without one.
• Most places in Macau and Hong Kong do accept Hong Kong Dollars (HKD), but do convert a small amount into the Pataca de Macau (MOP) to cover small expenses.
• Language: The prevalentism of Cantonese is remarkable, but the Portuguese and English spoken by a good number of residents makes it easy for tourists to communicate with the locals.
• Transportation: In fact, there are many forms of transportation available such as the bus systems and ferries. Taxis are also apparently available.
• Weather: From my last experience I would say, the best time to go to Macau is between the months of October and December during autumn when there are fewer people and the temperature is good as well.
Where to stay:
The type of accommodation available in Macau is broad enough to fit in everybody’s budget. Here is what I could recommend:
• Luxury: The Venetian Macao, Wynn Palace
• Mid-range: Metropole Hotel, Hotel Royal Macau
• Budget: Ole Tai Sam Un Hotel, Macau Masters Hotel
Final remarks:
It is a city filled with heritage that incorporates major historical sites which are alongside large scale developed casinos, and a combination between the eastern and western culture. This 3 days 2 nights itinerary will allow you to discover different aspects and features that Macau has to offer from its history to its culture and what engages its people. Roll your bags and get set to witness the most beautiful side of Macau.
REGMI DISCOVERING WORLD 