ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
With its combination of unique heritage and modern metropolis, Macau is growing rapidly in popularity as a Far Eastern tourism destination with a special twist
M
acau is a Special Administrative Region of China just 40 miles from Hong Kong, growing rapidly in popularity as a Far
East tourism destination with a difference. With its unique combination of Chinese
and Portuguese cultures, Macau is carving out a reputation as a fascinating addition to itineraries in the region, an alternative Asian stopover destination and the perfect companion to Hong Kong. Macau’s depth and diversity of
attractions belies its small size – just 29km2
– and offers a very different
experience to neighbouring Hong Kong. Originally inhabited by Cantonese farmers and fishermen, Macau’s development changed dramatically when the Portuguese arrived in the 1500s and it quickly became an international trading post. Although handed back to China in 1999, the influences of Macau’s unique history can still be seen today in the amazing architecture of its UNESCO- listed Historic Centre, its world-famous cuisine – with influences from the Portuguese explorers’ travels in Africa, India and South America – and its easy- going, Mediterranean-like atmosphere. In recent years, Macau has seen a
surge of exciting tourism developments, from luxury hotels and spas to world class entertainment and casinos. Yet its untouched Historic Centre and peaceful islands of Taipa and Coloane mean that whether visitors are looking for adrenaline fuelled excitement or rest and relaxation, Macau has something for everyone.
THE HI STORIC CENTR E Top of most visitors’ lists are the Ruins of St Paul’s, the A-Ma Temple – Macau’s oldest building – and central Senado Square, flanked by colourful, colonnaded 19th century buildings. They are three of over 20 buildings and monuments that comprise the World Heritage 'Historic Centre of Macau', which incorporates both Chinese and Portuguese buildings, such as temples, churches, houses, a fortress and even a lighthouse. Also to be found in the Historic Centre
is Mandarin’s House which opened in February after an eight-year restoration project. It is believed to date from the 1800s and features a fusion of Western and traditional Guangdong architecture.
Above: Macau's striking modern skyline; Right: the Ruins of St Paul's
www.sellinglonghaul.com • September 2010 49
THE MACAU TOWE R Dominating Macau’s ever evolving skyline is the Macau Tower which has become a firm favourite with overseas visitors. At 330 metres high it is one of the world’s tallest towers, with views from the top across the Pearl River Delta to China and Hong Kong. As well as a revolving restaurant, there's a choice of adrenaline-fuelled activities. Visitors can embark on the ‘Skywalk’ around the Tower's outside rim and then take the tethered ‘Skyjump’
Rising star MACAU NEED TO KNOW...
Most UK visitors arrive in Macau via flights to Hong Kong and then a quick 45-minute ferry ride direct from the airport
Chinese and Portuguese
are the official languages of Macau, though English is widely spoken
The currency is the
Macau Pataca, but the Hong Kong dollar is also accepted and has almost the same value
Macau is eight hours
ahead of GMT UK visitors do not require
visas for stays of up to six months in Macau
Contact: 020 8334 8328;
www.macautourism.gov.mo; email: macau@
humewhitehead.co.uk
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