Since the casinos opened, the one time sleepy Portuguese territory is packed with mainlanders who have come across the border from China for a good time hoping for a lucky break, and join gamblers from Hong Kong, Taiwan and around the world.
Gamble at Wynn, Sands, the Venetian and Lisboa
When the forty year monopoly enjoyed by STDM expired in 2002, casino operators from the USA have moved in and built casinos to rival Las Vegas. Indeed the takings exceed that of the American rival. Try the Sands close to the Ferry Pier, Wynn near the centre of town, the old and long established Lisboa and the newer glitzy Grand Lisboa, and over on Cotai, MGM Grand, and the most splendid of all, the Venetian.
Stay at Starwood, MGM Grand, Crown and Altira
New hotels have opened up around town. Many of the casinos have luxurious accommodation attached with top spas and swimming pools. Try Starwood, Wynn, Sands and Venetian for opulent splendor. Altira has some great restaurants, as does Crown which is famed for its Sunday buffet.
Shop at Loius Vuitton, Chanel, Dior and Cartier
The new casinos all have high end designer outlets waiting to entice you to part with your winnings. Look out for Louis Vuitton, Dior, Cartier, Chanel, D&G, and all the other temples to mammon. Antiques a plenty in the back streets around the centre of Macau - just watch out for those made yesterday.
Spills at Formual Three Grand Prix Racing
Formula Three Grand Prix racing takes place in Macau every November. The races have been held every year since 1954 and there are photos of past Formula Three champions like Michael Schumacher in the Grand Prix museum. There are racing cars and memorabilia from the last fifty plus years on display. You can even drive the circuit yourself in a racing car simulator. Way to go!
Open daily 10am – 6pm, on Rua Gonzaga Gomes. Admission 10 patacas tel (853) 798 4108.
Wonder at Macau Tower and AJ Hackett
You can’t leave Macau without taking the lift to the top of the recent attraction – the Macau Tower, the 10th tallest structure in the world. Enjoy a cocktail or a meal in the revolving restaurant on the 58th floor, while gazing out to breathtaking views over Macau and its islands, and beyond to China. If you are feeling especially daring, take a stroll on the AJ Hackett skywalk outside around the viewing platform, 216 metres above ground. Want to go further? Then climb to the very top of the mast, 338 metres up. Not for the faint-hearted.
Largo da Torre de Macau, Macau, SAR, Tel: (853) 933 339, Fax: (853) 960 103
Valery Garrett - I was born in England but I’ve lived in Hong Kong for over thirty years. At first I worked as a fashion designer for some large ...
