Macau – Wonderful Mix of Cultures

“Hong Kong and Macau are both very dynamic cities. I am always inspired about the culture, people and food in these two cities. There is always so much to do and so much to explore!” – David Beckham

My husband and I weren’t feeling well when we left Hong Kong but felt so much better a day after. HK was followed by a short trip to Macau. So what do I know about Macau? Only 2 things…☝️ the casinos and ☝️ the yummy Portuguese tarts.

Little did I know that there’s so much more to see there than those two things that I knew about. Macau is not just the modern casinos, it is also the traditional temples and the ruins, cobbled streets, its history and culture. The architecture  is also a wonderful mix of Chinese and Portuguese influences.

My husband, my sister, niece and nephew went there on the last day that the lanterns were up for the Chinese New Year. I was glad that at least we still saw the remnants of the celebration. Maybe the next time we should have timed it better. 

(Please click image to enlarge)

The main most iconic landmark of Macau is the Senado Square with its colourful European style buildings. This square is made of buildings with pastel shades and is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The last image shows the old town which is walkable and has the Market on one side…

The St Dominic’s Church on the other side. This church was built in 1587 and the design elements and colour is of Baroque style.

A little farther away, about 8-10 minutes walk is the Ruins of St Paul. This is also an iconic landmark of Macau, so magnificent, sitting on top of a hill. You should see it at dusk… it looks extra special!

The Golden Lotus Square is a square that features a 6 metre Lotus flower. This flower in full bloom symbolises the everlasting prosperity of Macau.

The A Ma Temple is the oldest temple in Macau which was built in 1488 during the Ming Dynasty. This was for A-Ma, the goddess of the sea. It was said to have helped the fishermen and sailors to reach safety during storms. Amazing architecture it is!

The Best time to visit the casinos is at night, you can walk along the streets and watch the amazing light shows. We watched a Cirque du Soleil performance while we were there. We saw the strip in the morning and at night just for comparison.

And of course I won’t leave without posting my ever favourite Portuguese tart which I bought, not just one or two pieces …but a whole box haha

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These are extraordinary times. Some information may have changed due to Covid-19, always check for updates. Stay safe.

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9 Comments

  1. Alison says:

    We love Macau and used to visit frequently when we lived in HK. There is a famous restaurant called Fernandos there on the beach that we always visit. They’ve done a great job with all the renovated buildings there.

    1. Teresa says:

      You lived there too at one time? That’s great!

      1. Alison says:

        Yes for 14 years, I met my hubby there! It was meant to be a two month trip 😂

        1. Teresa says:

          Oh wow, that is awesome!

          1. Alison says:

            Yes you could say that, changed the direction of my life for sure

  2. I love all the different coloured houses! So many interesting buildings there!

    1. Teresa says:

      Yes, I know… such wonderful architecture!

  3. lolaWi says:

    i love the old town of Macau. from the Senado Square, the side streets and of course the iconic ruins. sarap ng food! thanks for bringing about fond memories! 🙂

    1. Teresa says:

      Yes yes Wi… lovely place but especially the food!

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