Macau is a small but exciting island adjacent to Mainland China. Called the “Vegas of Asia”, CNBC even reports that this special administrative region is set to become one of the wealthiest places on Earth. So, if you’re new to the region and want something new to tickle your wanderlust, here’s a list of some places in Macau that are known as the most unforgettable sites.
For Adrenaline Junkies:
1. Skycab Cable Car
Get a bird’s eye view of the stunning Macau cityscape at the Wynn Palace’s Skycab experience. For 30 minutes, you will be privy to an air-conditioned cab car that is open both night and day. Some of the best sights include the evening water and light show and the daytime dancing spectacle. The clear glass doors, sharp turns, and unobscured view may be a bit scary for anyone who’s afraid of heights but it’s still a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Macau Tower and Convention Center
If you want to walk on the wild side, it’s worth visiting the Skywalk at the Macau Tower and Convention Center. The tower itself is 338 meters tall, with the Skywalk, café, and other recreational facilities all on the observation deck which stands at 223 meters. For anyone brave enough to do the Skywalk. And they are fastened to the edge of the viewing platform via harnesses and can stroll around the tower’s perimeter. If you want a little more, the tower is also home to the tallest commercial bungee jump, created by entrepreneur AJ Hackett.
For History Buffs:
3. A-Ma Temple
Known for its complex shrines housing various gods and religions, A-Ma Temple receives thousands of visitors every day. A post on Macau explains that visitors are encouraged to light incense at the shrine. And which directly contributes to the heavily fragranced air surrounding the temple. Some even say you can smell it from blocks away! The oldest and most famous of temples in Macau, this site is also where Macau allegedly gets its name from.
4. Guia Fortress
Accessible from a ferry terminal, Guia Fortress has a lighthouse, a chapel, a cistern, and a commander’s house reflective of its past as a chief observation post built in 1865. To this day, the fortress’ chapel still has carefully preserved frescoes that visitors can view. Being a military outpost, Guia also has tunnels open to the public, as well as exhibits and pictures from its military past.
5. Taipa Houses
The Taipa Houses are great for anyone looking to go back in time. Inside the facility, five distinct greenhouses designed with classic Portuguese architecture have each been preserved and outfitted as a museum. They include the “Macanese Living Museum”, the “Exhibitions Gallery, the “Nostalgic House”, the “Creative Casa”, and the “House of Receptions”. Previously a Portuguese residential compound, it has well-manicured lawns and cobblestones surrounding the property.
For Nature Lovers:
6. Hac Sa Beach
Located south of Macau, Coloane is home to many lovely beaches. Its most famous one, though, is arguably Hac Sa Beach, as per an article on MacauLifestyle.com. Known for its black sand, Hac Sa gets its color from darker minerals washed ashore. Open to the public, beachgoers can barbecue and pitch tents for a small fee. A relatively quiet place, Hac Sa is also popular among locals looking to relax away from the city center’s hustle and bustle.
7. Giant Panda Pavilion
Giant Panda Pavilion is a gorgeous facility with a translucent roof that houses several giant pandas, red pandas, and monkeys. This is a must-see location in Cotai, especially for young children. After you’ve visited the panda pavilion, you can spend the rest of your day relaxing in the koi ponds, gardens, and children’s playground.
Tourists from around the world, from all ages and backgrounds, will find something to enjoy in the places in Macau. With a friendly and largely English-speaking population, visitors may even find that the island feels like a home away from home.
Question & Answers
What is Macau known for?
Macau is known for its gambling industry, historic and cultural sites, and as a tourist destination. It is also known for its blend of Chinese and Portuguese culture, as well as its architecture. The city has many casinos, luxury hotels, and shopping centers, and is often referred to as the “Las Vegas of Asia.” Additionally, Macau has many historical and cultural sites, including the ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the A-Ma Temple, which are popular tourist destinations.
Is Macau a country or part of China?
Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. It is a small territory located on the southern coast of China, near Hong Kong. Macau was a Portuguese colony until 1999, when it was returned to Chinese sovereignty. As a Special Administrative Region, Macau has a high degree of autonomy and its own legal system and government. However, it is ultimately under the jurisdiction of the government of the People’s Republic of China. The “one country, two systems” principle established that Macau has its own legal system, economic system, and international relations, but it is also part of China.
Does Portugal still own Macau?
No, Portugal does not own Macau anymore. Macau was a Portuguese colony for about four hundred years until 1999. The Portuguese government and China government signed the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration on the Question of Macau in 1987, which established that Macau would be returned to Chinese sovereignty on December 20, 1999. The transition of Macau from Portuguese colony to a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China was completed on that day, Portugal no longer holds any jurisdiction over Macau. Macau is governed by the Macau Special Administrative Region Government and governed under the principle of “one country, two systems” principle, which allows Macau to maintain its own legal system, economic system, and international relations while being part of China.
Can you drink in Macau?
Yes, it is legal to drink alcohol in Macau. The legal drinking age is 18, and there are many places to purchase and consume alcohol, including bars, restaurants, and hotels. Macau has a vibrant nightlife scene and many casinos offer bars and lounges where people can drink. Macau has a mix of Western-style bars and clubs as well as traditional Chinese teahouses, which offer a wide range of options for those looking to have a drink. However, drinking and driving is strictly prohibited and can lead to severe penalties and fines.
Is Macau worth visiting?
Macau is a popular tourist destination and many people find it to be worth visiting for a variety of reasons. Some of the main reasons people visit Macau include:
- Gambling: Macau is known as the “Las Vegas of Asia” and has many casinos, which offer a wide range of gambling options.
- History and Culture: Macau has a rich history and culture, shaped by its blend of Chinese and Portuguese influences. Some notable historical and cultural sites include the ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the A-Ma Temple, the Macau Museum and Senado Square.
- Cuisine: Macau offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Chinese food to international cuisine. Macanese cuisine is a specific blend of Chinese and Portuguese cuisine which is well known in Macau.
- Shopping: Macau has many shopping centers, luxury brands and markets for those who want to do some shopping.
- Entertainment: There are many different types of entertainment available in Macau, including concerts, shows, and other events.
- Accommodation: Macau has a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hotels and hostels.
It ultimately depends on what one’s personal interests and preferences are, but there’s something in Macau that can cater to many people.
Is Macau bigger than Las Vegas?
Macau is smaller than Las Vegas in terms of land area. Macau is a small Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, consisting of a peninsula and two islands, covering an area of around 30.3 square kilometers (11.6 square miles) while Las Vegas is located in Nevada, US and it covers an area of around 135.8 square miles.
However, in terms of gambling revenue, Macau has surpassed Las Vegas. Macau’s gambling industry is the largest in the world, and the city generates significantly more revenue from gambling than Las Vegas. In recent years, the gambling industry in Macau has grown rapidly and it attracts many tourists from all over the world to visit its many casinos and other gambling-related activities.
Also, Macau is a densely populated city and it is known for its unique blend of Chinese and Portuguese culture and history, which makes it a great tourist destination. While Las Vegas, is known for its casinos, nightlife, and entertainment, which is a prime attraction for many visitors.
Is Macau under China or Hong Kong?
Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China. It is located on the southern coast of China, near Hong Kong. Macau is a separate territory from Hong Kong, and it has its own government and legal system.
The “one country, two systems” principle established after Macau’s handover from Portugal to China in 1999, allows both Hong Kong and Macau to maintain a high degree of autonomy and has its own legal system, economic system, and international relations, but both are ultimately under the jurisdiction of the government of the People’s Republic of China.
Hong Kong is also a Special Administrative Region of China, and it has its own legal system, economic system, and government, but it operates somewhat differently than Macau in some areas and have different laws and regulations.
What is the relationship between China and Macau?
China and Macau have a special relationship, established by the “one country, two systems” principle. According to this principle, Macau is part of China, but it has a high degree of autonomy and its own legal system, economic system, and government.
Under this principle, the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is responsible for the administration of Macau’s internal affairs, while the central government of China is responsible for the SAR’s foreign affairs and defense. This means that Macau maintains its own economic and legal system, and has its own currency, customs, and immigration policies.
The government of Macau is also responsible for the promotion of economic development and the maintenance of social stability. However, the overall direction and policies of Macau’s development are determined by the central government of China. The central government also has the power to interpret the Basic Law of Macau, which serves as the SAR’s constitution.
Overall, China and Macau maintain a relationship in which Macau has a high degree of autonomy, but ultimately falls under the jurisdiction of the government of the People’s Republic of China.
