Macau is the world’s most densely populated country and best known as Asia’s largest destination for gambling taking in even more revenue than Las Vegas.
As the first and last European colony in Asia, Macau has more visible colonial history than Hong Kong. Briefly reminded me of Shanghai.
Day 1 – Visited Senado Square, a paved area in the centre of the former Portuguese colony, enclosed by the buildings of the Leal Senado, the General Post Office, and St. Dominic’s Church.
Did soulless shopping and hike up to Ruins of St. Pauls – facade of originally The Cathedral of St. Paul built in 1602.
Local products like – Portuguese egg tarts, Pork Chop Bun, Almond Cookies, etc can be found in Senado Square.
Went to a Portuguese/Macanese restaurant right outside Senado Square. Food is super yummy and EXPENSIVE.
Went to take a walk at Fisherman Wharf – supposedly a theme park, although the place is beautiful but it is extremely DEAD. Hardly anyone around the place. Restaurants and pubs look boring. And we guessed everyone should be in casinos!
Like hello? We are in the land of casinos!
Day 2 – Took a taxi to Long Wah Cha Lou 龙华酒楼 (Casa De Cha Long Wa) This old teahouse opened its doors in 1963 and has hardly changed since then… Dim Sum was not as good as they claimed, however we have a good eye-feast on how a super old-school Hong Kong teahouse should be like. It felt like I was back in Hong Kong where it was 1960s.
As the teahouse was right smack in the middle of Red Market (No. 3, Rua Norte do Mercado Almirante) we decided to walk around and experience some local life instead of the casinos.
We decided to walk back to Senado Square, as we do so we chance upon the Fire Services Museum of Macau. It is built with a European style edifice that dates back to 1923. It is a very imposing structure in the area, especially beside the Kiang Wu Hospital. I can really appreciate the museum as I used to take a module of Fire Engineering back in my polytechnic days. It’s hard to find government taking funds and efforts to commemorate those who fought bravely for their countrymen.
The Fire Services Museum of Macau is interesting because it’s one of the countries in the world that pay tribute to the volunteers who risk their life just to save others.
Next we went to Ou Mum Cafe, located right at the back alleys in Senado Square. (took us very long to find this spot.) Sadly, despite all the reviews this cafe is more of a tourist spot than their food. I felt disappointed as it wasn’t as good as I thought. The egg tarts was soggy and tasteless.
Comparing to the ones I had on the street on Senada Square? This is WAY OFF.
Next, we decided to head to A-Ma Temple (媽閣廟) situated on the southwest tip of the Macau Peninsula, is one of the oldest and most famous Taoist temples in Macau. Built in 1488, the temple is dedicated toMatsu, the goddess of seafarers and fishermen.
Instead of taking taxi, I decided to be adventurous and take their local transport – Bus.
And I realized that every trip cost me MOP 3.20(S$0.53) only?! And the network of public buses is amazing. We can easily find a bus stop, waiting time is 10 minutes (maximum), network of the buses are easily understandable and available in every bus stop, the buses are super clean/high-tech and the best of all we noticed their is no traffic jam in Macau. Well, take the bus people!
As it was a super warm day in Macau and I did lots of walking/hiking hence I sort of dumped myself in the mist of all the casinos. I did casinos hopping, took their free shuttle buses and roam around the casinos. The extend of their extravagance are outright and shamelessly slapped on the buildings itself. I felt like I was in another world.
Oh yes, I am Chinese hence I cannot resist GAMBLING.
*Yes, I had a little windfall at the Blackjack table.*
Day 3 – Mr. K went out for business meetings and I am sleeping in. Woke up with a note on the dressing table and I decided to hit Senado Square and do some SERIOUS shopping. I am not going in details on what I buy as Mr. K would be reading. But girls would enjoy cheaper beauty products and NARAYA!!!!!!!!!!
The highlight of my trip before I head back to Singapore – Housing of Dancing Water
THE BEST SHOW I EVER WATCHED! A HK$2 Billion Production!
OMFG!!!! IT IS DAMN GOOD! Whoever goes to Macau CANNOT miss this show!
Well, I risked my life and recorded some parts of the show. And I was caught by the staff! *lower head*
So quick! THANK ME FOR IT!
Enjoy the photo slideshow and videos!
[...] Macau – Asia’s largest destination for gambling (ladygalaxie.wordpress.com) Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:LikeBe the first to like this post. [...]
By: Ruins of St. Paul’s, Macau « PinayTravelMom on February 3, 2012
at 6:07 am