"aramat's new Macao Page" Top 5 Page for this destination Macao by aramat

Macao Travel Guide: 2,183 reviews and 4,987 photos

Macao was the oldest permanent European settlement in East Asia, established by the Portuguese in 1557. It began its history as Portuguese colony, became a free port in 1849, got established as a Chinese territory under Portuguese administration in 1974, and has been a Special Administrative Region under Chinese sovereignty since the end of 1999.

During the centuries it became closely associated with illegal gambling and smuggling. Today the traditional fishing and the newer manufacturing industries are supplemented by tourism and gambling casinos (the tourism authorities make a very serious effort to reposition Macao as a cultural and heritage destination as opposed to a gamblers' paradise).

The name of the settlement comes from the 14th century A-Ma temple (A-Ma-gau meaning A-Ma's bay).

Pros and Cons

Pros:Atmosphere, architecture, attractions
Cons:Lack of terraces, street cafes, etc. (in the heat, it would be nice to have more opportunities for a break and a drink)
In a nutshell:Exciting blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultures

Intro Updated Oct 19, 2003
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Reviews (28)

Gambling Nightlife (1)

Macao is famous for its casinos which offer a wide range of games such as baccarat, blackjack, roulette, boule, fan tan,... more travel advice

Hong Kong - Macao ferry Transportation (4)

There is a regular ferry service from Hong Kong to Macao and back. I used TurboJet which was OK, offered many departures... more travel advice

Macao streets 2 Favorites (6)

The central area of the peninsula is hilly, but it's worth to walk up and down to forts, temples and churches. As I was... more travel advice

Macao streets Favorites (6)

The Portuguese heritage is also reflected in the city's architecture. This narrow street starts from the Senate's... more travel advice

Off The Beaten Path (1)
St Michael Cemetery
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Comments (6)

Jim_Eliason Apr 7, 2007 at 4:36 AM Report Abuse

Great tips Tamara!
lotharlerch Dec 10, 2004 at 10:35 PM Report Abuse

A very nice page from such a short visit! Happy Birthday! btw. I WAS a frequent visitor of your counntry.....
belgianchocolate Oct 27, 2004 at 5:35 AM Report Abuse

It took me a moment to figure out what else a junk could be. A very informative page with loads of information. well done;
ncfg Aug 28, 2004 at 12:17 PM Report Abuse

Great tips about Macau, those narrow streets are just like the streets of my town :-) Greetings from Portugal. Nat
quartinb Nov 15, 2003 at 2:33 PM Report Abuse

been lookin for a macao pg watch out i'm off to see this and yours other pgs...!
aragorn01 Nov 8, 2003 at 3:00 PM Report Abuse

Good job! I enjoy your pages.