Macau – The Las Vegas of Asia

I’d like to say, “Hi travellers” but I’m guessing most of us are currently homebound right now. If you’re anything like me, I’m sure you’re getting itchy feet. From our usual 8-11 travels per year, so far, we’ve managed just 1. My feet are not just itchy, they’re dancing!

This year was also meant to be us introducing Teni to the world of travelling, whilst his fare price was just tax alone! Our dreams crushed. Lol. We continue to pray that the travel industry changes quickly and borders re-open soon, without fear of locations appearing on the quarantine list.

Instead, we’ll travel dream through this months location chosen by you, Macau.

Macau is a small region, off the coast of China and Hong Kong. We visited Macau after doing Taipei; and then ending in Hong Kong. If you’re travelling that distance, I’d advise to make the most of it.

I’m not a gambler, so when I say “Las Vegas of Asia” please don’t be put off. This place was most certainly an experience! Remi would have tried the casinos but we didn’t understand the language! So we happily just “window shopped”.

Macau (like most Asia’s) is fairly cheap, so first off, I’d say treat yourself to a 5* hotel as it’s definitely affordable. Most hotels arrange free shuttle to Taipa (the main area where you’ll find all the casinos). Wander through the mega fancy hotels, and the casino’s and just take it all in. I assure you, it’s an experience. When we stopped by the Wyndham Hotel, they had a ride that took you around the views of the hotel, and wow! You didn’t need to be a hotel guest either. As you stroll through the strip, you’ll spot mini Venice & mini Paris too. We went during the festive period so the decor was even further wow.

Because of the period we went (December), the tour buses were limited, so we paid a private guide to take us round. I think he overcharged us slightly but it was still worth it for the hassle free way of seeing the town.

Apart from the hotels & casinos, Macau does have a little culture. Listed below:

Fisherman’s walk – just 5 minutes walk from the ferry terminal, this is the largest leisure and themed entertainment complex. The views and stroll was photo worthy for our resident photographer!

Santo Antonio – here you’ll find Ruins of St Paul’s (Ruins of a 17th century Catholic religious complex) – this was most certainly my highlight of our trip. The place was buzzing with tourists, music and dance performances, and the culture made you feel right at home.

Macau Tower – you can either dine at the revolving restaurant at the top of the tower, or go bungee jumping off the tower, like Kanye West, Neyo & Lewis Hamilton! Bungee jumping is an activity we’re yet to decide if we want to do! So for now, our feet stayed on the ground. Instead, we stayed inside the shopping mall and viewed their vintage car show.

Kunlam Ecumenical Centre – you cannot miss this landmark. With the statue of Kun Lam, the goddess of mercy sitting 20m high, it’s quite magnificent. Inside you’ll find a small library, religious objects and a gallery.

Lotus Square – a large open public space not too far from fisherman’s walk. Standing 6m proud, this sculpture marked the transfer of Macau from Portugal to China. And also makes for a fabulous photo op.

Chapel of our lady of Penha – this is a small hilltop church that’s great to see the panoramic views

If you’re moving on to Hong Kong from Macau, you can catch a ferry that takes less than an hour (which we took, and were pleasantly surprised with food served on board); or take a road trip and make use of the Zhuai bridge, and also the worlds largest sea crossing.

This was our first trip to the Asia’s and our hearts were stolen. We most certainly want to go back, even if not to Macau, most definitely to discover more of the Asias.

I hope this has given you a flavour of what Macau has to offer. You can see the fun video here (which really brings St Paul’s ruins to life):