TOP 7 PLACES TO SEE IN MACAU, CHINA
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TOP 7 PLACES TO SEE IN MACAU
BY: Ysabel Villaflor
The first time I went to Macau was last November with a friend of mine, Cres. While we were planning the trip, we decided to go all adventurous and explore the city on our own. It was fun and dangerous in a sort of “not-knowing-what’s-going-to-happen-but-I-don’t-care-this-is-fun” kind of way. We ate on the street where people don’t speak a word of English, we walked endlessly from one spot to the other, we had time to ourselves, and most importantly, we went where we want to.
20 days after that trip, I was back in Macau with 15 people with a very different experience. We had a tour manager, we shared a bus with a couple of strangers, and we had to watch the time. Yes, that was what I don’t miss about half-day tours. But what we did have were: convenience of transfers, getting in and out of sites with no glitch and someone who can actually explain to us what the heck was going on. Yes, we covered a lot of sites more than we did by going around by ourselves the first time. I guess it would be easier to get a tour guide if you go with a big group.
But one thing the two experiences have in common: the experience of going around Macau’s sites:
A1. Ma Temple – the one thing that can get you here is the jumping water. It’s rubbing the side handles of a metal bowl in front of the incense and if you make the water “jump” you can have a wish granted. It’s baffling, it’s interesting, and it’s indescribable. Try it so you know what I mean. And if you go around Christmas, you can also share a firecracker or two.
2. Macau Tower – You can forget about the other sites, except for this one! It’s an adrenaline junkie’s dream come true. The Macau Tower is the 10th tallest building in the world and you can bungee jump off the 60th floor. Yes, it’s not everyone, but for those who would like to play it safe (well, still not) a walk on the observatory deck on the 58th floor would do. My older brother gave out a small girly scream when he realized the floor was made out of glass with a view all the way down! Mind you, jumping off the tower doesn’t come cheap – MOP 2,900 (around Php15,000+ or US$300+) and would have to conform to certain height and weight requirements. The entrance fee is MOP100 (around Php700 or US$12), and it’s all worth it!
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3. Fisherman’s Wharf – Who would’ve thought that paper could be great? From paper-mache-ing the Roman Coliseum in Italy, to Egyptian mummies, to the Great Wall of China, Fisherman’s Wharf is like jumping through continents in one go. Great for pictures. Great for kids. Thank you Stanley Ho!
4. Ruinas Do Sau Paulo – the image that impresses on our minds is the shape of this once glorious church. Though the façade is the only thing left, it still draws quite a crowd. Don’t forget to see this.
5. Senado Square – the cobble stone streets, and the mosaics will transport you instantly to Europe. Try taking a picture during rush hour, it will be difficult NOT to have another person in the same shot! This is also a tourist trap for shoppers, foodies and art collectors who will be happy to know that there are a lot of worthwhile shops in the area (think Mango, Tough Jeans, The Body Shop, Bossini, Milan Station, Sasa, G200, Nike, Taiwanese Fried Chicken, Café Eskimo, Koi Kei Bakery, MC Creations just to name a few).
6. Rua Felicidade – one of the oldest streets in Macau and definitely one of the most charming. With red shutters and tiled street signs, this will remind you of Calle Crisologo in Ilocos or small side streets in Italy. Grab a meal here at the celebrated Fat Siu Lao, Iris Desserts, Julius Drinks, Koi Kei Egg Tarts and local hole-in-a-wall noodle shops.
7. The Venetian – is not only a hotel, but a tour spot by itself. With more than 300 retail shops and restaurants. (the size of which is equal to 56 American Football fields) I recommend spending a day here to fully comprehend its size, do some major shopping and do some gambling. (Macau is the only part of China where gambling is legal) Other activities to note: gondola rides, watching the Cirque Du Soleil or live performances at Di Mark’s Square.
Whether you decide to go on your own or get a tour guide in any land, be sure to stay safe – but have fun! J
