A Piece of Europe in Macau

After invading Europe, Africa and the Caribbean the past few years, here I go with my Asian Invasion and this year I’m starting off with Macau on Valentine’s Day.

Join me as I take you on a day trip adventure in the so called ‘Vegas of the East’ and what I describe to be as the ‘Little Europe in Asia’.

Macau is a city of duality with its fortresses, churches and the cuisine of its former Portuguese colonial masters speak to an exceptionally Mediterranean elegance on the China coast, combined with alleys, temples and shrines. It is the only place in China where gaming and gambling is legal.

Formed by the islands of Taipa and Coloane wherein Taipa used to be an island of duck farms and boat yards decades ago and the small island of Coloane was a haven for pirates until 1910. Although luxurious villas and hotels are now built on the islands, Macau still retains its old ways of living.

Before going places in Macau, make sure to exchange your money with their local currency which is MOP or Macau Pataca in other cases they do accept Hong Kong dollars as well. ATM’s are just everywhere, especially just outside Hotel Lisboa where you’ll find half a dozen.

You might want to check the weather too or you’ll be so unprepared like me who brought some more leg warmers along the way as I wasn’t prepared of the cold freezing weather of 6 degrees Celsius on the month of February.

Despite the freezing weather, nothing can stop me from exploring this little piece of Europe in Asia. Here are the places not to miss in Macau:

St. Paul Ruins – one of Macau’;s most famous landmark which was originally built in the 17^th century, destroyed by fire in 1835 and what remains today is the façade of the Church & St Paul’s College. The façade sits on a small hill, with 66 stone steps leading up to it. The carvings have Jesuit images with Oriental themes such as a woman stepping on a seven-headed hydra, described by Chinese characters as “Holy Mother tramples the heads of the dragon”. A few other carvings are the founders of the Jesuit Order, the conquest of death by Jesus and at the very top, a dove with wings outstretched. Going here, you can take any of these bus numbers 2, 5, 10, 18, 19 & 26A.

Senado Square – Macau’s urban center for centuries and still remains to be a popular venue for celebrations as it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is covered with a wave-patterned montage colored stones formed by the Portuguese. In 1940, there used to be a statue of a Portuguese soldier named Mesquita who was responsible for the deaths of many Chinese soldiers during the hostilities with the Qing Dynasty. There are shopping centers and traditional Chinese Restaurants around the square. Going here, you can take any bus with numbers 2, 5, 10, 18, 19 & 26A.

The Venetian Macau –  the world’s largest casino and Asia’s most thrilling entertainment destination with its lavish Italian marbled facilities, amenities and attraction. Get overwhelmed over 350 international shops and boutiques, be dazzled by the street performers, or take a ride on an authentic Venetian gondola, all found inside the resort. Complimentary Venetian Shuttle Bus to Venetian Macau from: the Airport, Gongbei Border Gate and at the Ferry Terminal.

Macau Tower – is the 10^th highest freestanding tower in the world and 8^th in Asia. Soaring 338 meters above the city, its Observation Deck dominates the skyline and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Macau cityscape, China, the Pearl River and some islands of Hong Kong on a clear day. There is a Revolving Restaurant which seats 250 persons which takes 60 minutes to complete one revolution. If you are that adventurous person like me, don’t miss out the World’s highest bungy jump that will take you on a free fall at a speed of up to 200km/h wherein before landing into a specially designed airbag, jumper will be able to experience a few air rebounds. Going here, you can take any bus with numbers 9A, 18, 21, 23 & 32.

Kun Iam Statue – is the statue dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Made of special bronze, the dome shape base like a lotus flower is a center where information on Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism are available. Going here you can take any bus with numbers 8, 12 & 17.

Wine and Grand Prix Museum – the only one of its kind in Asia where visitors can understand the cultural importance of wine in the Portuguese tradition, daily life and celebration rituals. Visitors can even taste different types of wine in their wine tasting called “Prova de Vinhos”, a matchless experience for only a small price. Meanwhile, the Grand Prix Museum displays photos, videos, articles, cups, records of champions and other commemorative items. Built in 1933 it is situated at the Tourism Activities Center on Rua Luis Gonzaga Gomes. Going here, you can take any bus with numbers 3, 10, 12, 17, 23 & 32.

City of Dreams – a must experience destination with its rare integrated resort combining stimulating amusement, an incredible array of accommodation, regional and international dining, as well as designer brand shopping. There are two theatres, the first called “The Bubble” that currently shows an immersive HD media projection entitles “The Dragons Treasure”. The second, “The Dancing Water” theater that features an in-the-round water show, the largest of its kind in the world. With The Bubble, a stunning multi-media attraction and The Boulevard, a chic lifestyle zone surrounding entertainment, restaurants and shopping boutiques.  Complimentary City of Dreams Shuttle Bus to City of Dreams from: the Airport, Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal, Taipa Temporary Ferry Terminal, Macau Lotus Bridge Check Point, and Macau Barrier Gate Check Point.

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion – nestled on the hillside at Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane in a fan-shaped layout of about 3000 m². Two viewing paths of different elevations align along the front edge which includes internal facilities such as the logistic center with panda dens, bamboo-washing and storage quarters, feed preparation room and warehouse, veterinarian clinic and others. Outside the park is a souvenir shop and some snack shops and cafes in the vicinity.

Of course what’s a trip to Macau without trying their Macanese Cuisine, a blend of Southern Chinese and Portuguese Cuisines, usually seasoned with spices such as turmeric, coconut, milk, cinnamon, and bacalhau. Famous dishes include Galinha a Portuguesa, Bacalhau, Pato De Cabidela, and Stir-Curry Crab. The Pork Chop Bun is the most popular snack and desserts such as egg tarts, ginger milk, and almond cake.

Let’s just say my 2-day stay in this little piece of Europe in Macau has been short yet sweet. Plus don't miss out my feature in Macau Magazine this March 2014.

 My 108 country for the record and still counting ‘coz a lot of countries is yet to be unraveled by your Globetrotter, Rheens.

As often as possible, while you’re young, go some place you’ve never been before. Experience new places and new things. You might find yourself with someone or somewhere that makes you much happier than your previous circumstance. The Earth is so vast with unique and beautiful places, why wouldn’t you want to go explore them?