Macau, one of China’s two Special Administrative Regions (along with Hong Kong) is a destination that has been recently making waves among tourist populations from around the globe. The de facto city state is currently enjoying a period of huge growth and wealth and as such has become a Mecca for tourism, sightseeing and kicking back. With so many treasures to be found in Macau it can be difficult to choose from the rich panoply on offer. To help, we had a think about our five favourite things to do and see in the beautiful city.
The cuisine of Macau is exceptional, and going on a jaunt amongst and across the destination’s many bustling food markets and restaurants is a wonderful way to spend a day or two. Make sure to visit the renowned Seng Cheong Restaurant, sampling its signature dish the Crab Congee; this restaurant is indicative of many of the other excelling eating spots in the city- delicious food at rock bottom prices!
One of principle draws of Macau is the huge number of casinos. There are thirty three in the city, so many that the city has aptly earned the moniker ‘The Las Vegas of the East’ and the glittering casino resorts of the city are an obvious feature of the city’s skyline; at night, dazzling light and fountain displays play across the city. Even if you find the displays somewhat ostentatious you should definitely travel to at least one of the casinos; make sure you get to grips with the various games prior to your stay on an online site such as Jackpotcitycasino.com- all of the classic casino games played in casinos are featured on the site as well as oriental games (Sic Bo, Mahjong, Pai Gow etc), everything you’ll need to become a shark at the tables!
Sightseers have plenty to enjoy in Macau however all tourists should spend at least a little time at the charmingly colonial Taipa Village. A rustic enclave with a rich Portuguese ambience, the area features a beautiful Chinese Temple, plus a huge array of fantastic restaurants and shops.
Senado Square, one of Macau’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is also a must-see for travellers. A gem of colonial Portuguese architecture, the square hosts a pretty water fountain at its centre, oozing an atmosphere more at home in a southern European city. Nearby are attractions such as the elegant Holy House of Mercy, St Dominic’s Church and the Ruins of St Paul’s; all the makings of a great day of sightseeing!
Macau also has its fair share of museums, a more historical and interesting counterpoint to all of the eating, drinking and gambling that tourists otherwise indulge in. The Macau Museum is great for those that want to learn more about the history of the ex-Portuguese colony, and museums such as the Grand Prix Museum, Wine Museum and Macau Maritime Museum are also great places to learn more about the city’s heritage