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Published: November 10th 2015
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My first trip to Macau was back in 2006, almost a decade ago. From that time on it has been one of my favorite destinations. It has a certain charm to it that makes one feel at home. And if you happen to be there during winter or spring, walking is the best way to explore the city.
Macau can be described as a blending of cultures and lifestyles. Having been under the Portuguese Colony for a long time left an undeniable influence on Macau, from churches to cobblestones steps to food, museums and even language. In 1999, Macau was handed over to China and is now a Special Administrative Region of Republic of China- a little bit of history there for you.
In order to boost tourism, Macau became the “Las Vegas” of Asia. It has become a travel destination for those who love casinos and gambling. With the Venetian Macao Hotel and Casino and the City of Dreams, Macau became the favorite gambling hub this side of the world. I enjoyed going to the Venetian and City of Dreams, not because I gamble, but because I like the overall feel of the hotels, not to mention the
gondola ride. Venetian Macao is a replica of the Venetian in Las Vegas. The art treatment on the ceiling and the intricate interior design will leave you in awe. For those who love shopping, this is one shopping haven. There are restaurants (fine dining, too) inside the hotel serving dishes from around the world. But if you are not that picky eater, you will also enjoy the food court. You can stay here practically the whole day.
City of Dreams houses the Hard Rock Hotel and Crown Towers Hotel and the Grand Hyatt Macau. I particularly like the Hard Rock Hotel lobby wherein they hung up on the wall the guitars and other paraphernalia of famous music icons. I do hope they still have it there. If you are traveling with kids, you might want to check out the theater, they usually have shows that the kids will enjoy. Good thing is that City of Dreams is just across Venetian Hotel.
The famous landmark in Macau is the Ruins of St. Paul. Going to the ruins, we usually go through Senado Square. I just love walking on cobblestones and trying out different delicacies sold along the way. The
stores offer free taste of practically everything they sell. You might just be full by the time you reach the ruins. Boutiques, souvenir shops and restaurants line up the street. You should definitely try Lemoncello – a gelato place located in one of the side streets (sorry, I can’t remember the name of the street but it is quite famous so it can easily be found).
The Ruins of St. Paul was ravaged in the 1835 fire. The only remaining reminder of this European-inspired architecture is the façade and the steps leading to the church. At nighttime, lights adorn this magnificent remains. You have never really been to Macau without a visit to Ruins of St. Paul.
If adventure is what you seek, you will definitely enjoy going up the Macau Tower. You can sign up for Skywalk, Sky Jump, Mast Climb or Bungee Jumping. My friends tried the skywalk- it is walking outside of the tower. They have official suits that you have to put on and for safety they put a harness-like strap on you. With my fear of height, I didn’t dare try it out. I was happy waiting for my friends and husband and
taking photos. Macau Tower also has an observation room where it has glass walls around it. A great way to view the whole of the city.
If peace and quiet is what you seek, I suggest exploring Coloane and Taipa Islands. They have parks and gardens where you can just sit, relax, think and even read. You can bring your own coffee, too.
We also went to the very first Lord Stowe’s store in Macau. It is located in Coloane- about 45minutes drive from the city or main Macau Island. Since I love egg tart, the visit to the store was like shopping for me. It is freshly baked and the aroma is heavenly. And while you’re in Colane, pass by Restaurante Fernando. It is a Portuguese restaurant that serves delicious food- trust me. They open at 12nn but you have you have to be there early to be able to be seated right away. The line tends to get long.
It is easy to go around Macau. You can take the bus or cab whichever suits you best. Make sure, though, that you have your destination in Chinese character since most cab drivers speak little English.
The buses, on the other hand, are numbered. Ensure that you board the right bus.
I’ve been to Macau couple of times already, but I think there are still so much more to explore. It really pays to plan your trip very well so as not to miss out on anything. I wish I can go back soon.
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