Travel Guide to Macau

*Article Contributed

Have you ever considered travelling to the renowned city of Macau? Macau is a small city that encompasses around 30 square kilometers and is located in the western part of the Pearl River Delta on the shore of the South China Sea. Here the East meets the West in terms of culture, architecture and cuisine. This city is known as the “Vegas of the East” due to its enormous number of casinos and status as the most popular gambling destination on the planet. In addition, it is home to one of the longest bridges in the world, connecting Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macau.

If you are planning a trip to this stunning city in the not-too-distant future, here are some of the main things to see and do.

Visit the Macau Tower

The Macau Tower, which dominates the city's skyline at the height of 338 meters (1109 feet), offers panoramic views of the Chinese mainland and the Pearl River Delta from its 61st-floor observation deck. Thrill seekers can skywalk the tower’s perimeter, ascend to its pinnacle or take the world's highest bungee jump.

Senado Square

When you visit Macau, you’ll likely begin your trip in Senado Square (Senate Square), one of the city’s most beautiful pedestrian areas. An enormous outdoor museum, it serves as the focal point of Macau’s historic core and is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Neo-classical structures in pastel colors surround Senado Square, giving it a Mediterranean atmosphere. Additionally, the square is an excellent place to shop and dine, with restaurants serving both European and Chinese cuisines.

Old Taipa Village

It is located in Taipa’s oldest and best-preserved neighborhood, where fishermen once lived. The village has plenty of historic sites and cobbled alleyways if you are looking for an alternative view to Cotai Strip’s glitz and glamour. It’s one of the few spots left in Macau where you can step back in time and enjoy relaxing strolls down pedestrianized streets and hidden passageways. Old Taipa Village is a one-of-a-kind iconic attraction in Macau that showcases the best of Portuguese and Chinese architecture and distinct Mediterranean influences.

Ruins of St. Paul’s

St Paul’s most influential Christian churches, was devastated by three successive fires. Even in a state of ruin, the early 17th century’s stone stairway and granite façade studded with statues is a sight to behold. This landmark still stands and serves as a reminder of Portuguese colonial history.

A-Ma Temple

A-Ma Temple is Macau’s oldest place of worship, having existed long before the city was even established. Guarded by two lion statues at the entrance, the complex of Buddhist pavilions, gardens, sculptures and shrines is dedicated to A-Ma, the sea goddess after whom the city takes its name. The spiritual aura is constantly disrupted by ear-splitting bursts of firecrackers and an abundance of billowing incense to keep evil spirits at bay.

Hit the Beach

If you want to experience a different side of the city away from the casinos and tourists, head to one of Macau's two main beaches on Coloane Island (Cheoc Van Beach and the black beach of Hac Sa.) These lovely beaches allow you to unwind or participate in various water sports and other beach activities.

Museum of Macau

Macau’s turbulent past is well shown in this outstanding museum. Its discovery and subsequent rise as a trade port are chronicled on the ground floor, which also pays tribute to China and Portugal for their maritime contributions.

Macau is much more than just a gambling city. It is also the birthplace of delectable delicacies that can be found nowhere else on the planet. The food is a cross between Portuguese and Chinese cooking techniques and ingredients, with influences from India, Malaysia and East Africa. While in Macau, be sure to send your taste buds wild with some of the traditional Macanese dishes such as Minchi, African chicken, Tacho, Capela and pork chop bun.

Macau is also a haven for bargain-hunters thanks to its tax-free shopping, which lowers the cost of goods. Shopaholics in Macau will find various options for any budget, from designer labels in high-end retail malls to bargains on the streets.