Macau is a city with two faces: the fortresses, churches and food of former
colonial masters Portugal speak to a uniquely Mediterranean style on the China
coast. And yet Macau is also the self-styled Las Vegas of the East. While the profileration of mega-casinos means there's plenty of places to try
your hand with Lady Luck, many of Macau's pleasures are relaxed and laidback,
architectural and atmospheric.
Things to do and see in Macau:
Whether you are looking for razzle-dazzle or quiet indulgence, Macau can keep you engaged for several days with shopping, sightseeing, spa treatments, golf, bungee-jumping, and more. Here are our picks when you find yourself spoiled for choice:
The Ruins of St. Paul's & Museum of Sacred Art:
This is the remaining facade of the Jesuit church built in the 17th century on one of Macau's seven hills. The church was destroyed in a fire in 1835 but the wall and the steps leading up to it that remain are an impressive sight for visitors – young and old alike. |
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Monte Fort and the Macau Museum:
Take the escalator ride up which starts just east of the Ruins of St. Paul's. The fort was built by the Jesuits between 1617 and 1626, provides an excellent lookout over the city and is accessible by the old gateway. Today, it houses the museum of Macau, which occupies the foundations and platform of the fort.
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Statue of A-Ma:
Close to the world's tallest statue of the goddess A-Ma (also known as Tian
Hou), which stands on a 170-metre high peak on a mountaintop on Macau's Coloane
Island, is a 7,000-square-meter Qing dynasty-style complex that honors one of
Macau's most beloved deities. |
Senado Square & St. Dominic's Church:
A favorite of tourists and locals alike, this busy square has been the cultural hub of Macau for centuries. The square is paved with wave-patterned stone mosaics and surrounded by a number of beautiful and historically important buildings. St. Dominic’s Church, known for its large altar, many statues and decorated ceiling, stands on one end of the square.
Macau Tower Convention & Entertainment Centre:
Macau Tower is the 10th highest in the world at 338 metres. An elegant construction offering magnificent panoramic views all over Macau. Try the "Skywalking" around the outside of the tower. Next to the Tower is the Entertainment Centre.
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Spas -- Get stoned :
Macau has some world-class spas offering a wide range of treatments, and the list is growing quickly with every new resort that opens. This is a place to get pampered and rejuvenated. |
Fisherman's Wharf:
Set on the pier of Macau's harbour, this complex consists of over 100 stores and restaurants. Each built in the styles of different world seaports (Cape Town, Amsterdam, Lisbon, etc.) as well as historical and legendary sites (Aladdin's Fort, a Roman Amphitheatre, a volcano, etc.). There are even a number of theme park-like rides for children.
Macau's Casino :
If you arrive by ferry, you will see the Sands’ giant logo as you alight at the harbour. The casino is near to the ferry terminal and Fisherman’s Wharf. For a more traditional Macau gambling institution, try the legendary Macau landmark, Lisboa Casino. |
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The Wynn Casino just opened this fall and has introduced Macau's gamblers to a whole new level of extravagance, being the first fully integrated resort to debut in the territory. StarWorld is the tallest casino hotel in Macau and its contemporary design and modern facilities make it a shinning landmark towering over the energized downtown Macau.
Note that the legal gambling age in Macau is 18 years and photography is prohibited inside the casinos.
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