Macau: Day Tripper
Travelling to Hong Kong? Why not include a quick trip to Macau? This small country lies an hour by ferry from Hong Kong which is why it's no surprise that it becomes a popular one-day trip destination from one of Asia's densely populated cities.
A round trip ferry ticket costs US$42.50; quite affordable isn't it? Now the question is, what are the things you can enjoy from visiting Macau for a day? There are plenty!
Fisherman's Wharf
The Fisherman's Wharf is a harbour area. This is where the ferry from Hong Kong dock. From here, tourists can already enjoy various attractions.
The Colosseum
Nope, it's not an imagination. There is a nice replica of the infamous Colosseum in Rome in Macau. The building features detailed architectural design that is noteworthy. Seeing this Roman Amphitheatre replica is indeed satisfying especially if you've been dreaming of seeing the real one in Rome.
Several other European-inspired architectural structures are built in the Fisherman's Wharf. Wandering around the area can induce an indescribable feeling. It's like you'll be transported back in the Roman times.
And of course, the best part is you can enjoy this unique experience for free! No need to pay for any entrance fee; just appreciate the things you see.
Ruins of St. Paul
One iconic destination in Macau is the St. Paul Ruins. Undeniably, this is one of the most popular attractions in the city especially for the Catholics.
Built at the beginning of the 17th century, the facade and remaining of St.Paul has become an emblematic landmark in Macau and is a UNESCO listed structures. The main stairs leading up to the ruins are (always) crowded, so you might want to properly plan the timing of your visit unless the (huge) crowd doesn't bother you. Otherwise, you can opt to check the back part where the temple tends to be empty and quiet.
Senado Square
Just a few minutes walk from the St. Paul's Ruins, you can find the popular Senado Square. Listed into the World Heritage Sites as part of Historic Centre of Macau, this place attracts many tourists by its activities, shops and multi-styled and/or European-inspired buildings.
Let your eyes feast on those beautiful, colourful, and intricately-built structures.
The Senado Square contains lots of modern shops in classic Portuguese buildings; so if you want to shop around, you have unlimited options!
The Venetian
Been dreaming of going to Italy and ride the gondola but not enough budget? A trip to Macau is the solution! The Venetian is waiting for you!
What is The Venetian? Oh well, it's known as the largest casino hotel in the world and at the same time a replica to the Italian city. So you can experience Italy in Asia!
Are you a shopaholic? No problem! Stroll through the shopping area at The Venetian and shop to your heart's content. You can look out for the San Marco square or perhaps take a gondola ride with a graciously singing gondolier.
The Grand Lisboa Hotel and Casino
To those who don't know, Macau is considered as the Las Vegas of Asia. Many tourists visit the country to do one thing aside from shopping and sightseeing - gamble. A lot of casinos are scattered everywhere and they are as impressive as the ones you can find in the Sin City.
As a day tripper, just enjoy taking photos by these eye-catching casinos. They look so vivid, colourful, and bright especially when the night falls. And don't forget to admire the unique designs of some casinos - they are also Instagram-worthy! ;-)
One day trip to Macau can already give you so many things to enjoy and the above are just few of them. You can experience all these things without spending much - just a ferry ticket and food (and shopping).
Have you been to Macau? What other attractions have you visited?
Dec '16