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Macau is a short day trip from Hong Kong. A unique and enticing place that is located on mainland China, this city is known now for its Las Vegas-style hotels and flashy gambling facilities. But, for those interested in the quieter side of town, it’s just as amazing. You can get here within 90-minutes from Hong kong and soak-in the splendor of this former Portuguese colony.
Macau is very interesting. Arriving here as an American, it isn’t essential for a visa for a day trip – but a passport is required. I arrived via ferry and was instantly struck by the old town and its unbelievable Portuguese flavor.
Architecture in Macau is undoubtedly Portuguese and this is felt and seen everywhere. You can meander in and out of stores where they sell both Chinese and Portuguese ceramics, dine at restaurants that fuse cuisine from both countries and even here some members of the older generations conversing in Portuguese.
I walked through the streets and admired the desaturated colors, visited the stunning Mandarin House and dined at Restaurante Litoral – a Portuguese/Macanese fusion delight.
The small locally-owned shops and museums in Macau kept me busy all afternoon.
The streets were live, the authenticity felt deeply and the people hospitable. For anyone looking for the perfect day trip from Hong Kong, choose Macau.
