Macau has become known in the last few years as China’s only site for gambling.
PHOTO ANTON WALKERIt is one of China’s two special administrative regions alongside Hong Kong. Macau is a vacation destination for many residents of Mainland China. It’s an easy day trip or overnight visit from Hong Kong as well. From Hong Kong, the ferry ride is an hour and passports are required in order to enter. However, the immigration process is quick.
Macau Peninsula is the older part of Macau. It contains an older pedestrian district and some of the smaller, more “Chinese” casinos. The architecturally distinct Grand Lisboa Resort is there, along with Las Vegas staples such as the MGM Grand and Wynn. It is interesting to walk around the streets of this area and look at the high-end clothing stores crammed in next to dingy local eating establishments. Macau was originally a Portuguese colony and many of the buildings and historical information posted along the streets convey this.
Taipa is Macau’s nearby island, and those familiar with Vegas will notice more similarities in this area of Macau. A wide street crossed by pedestrian bridges is reminiscent of the Vegas strip, and is decorated with major resorts such as the Venetian and Hard Rock Hotels. These resorts are filled with luxury shops, countless tables and slot machines, and fine dining establishments. Visitors can even take the opportunity to ride a gondola along the Venetian’s faux canals. Beyond these resorts, Macau Tower has the world’s second tallest bungee jump and a nearby horseracing track.
Even if the idea of gambling does not hold appeal, Macau is worth a quick visit. It is China’s take on Las Vegas and a great amalgamation of Western and Eastern influences. Its accessibility makes it an ideal side excursion on any Hong Kong trip.
