Macau is well known for having some of the world’s best casinos. It is also, together with Hong Kong a Special Administration Region of China. Basically, it has its own immigration points and currency. If you are counting countries like me it is worth taking a day trip from Hong Kong and adding to that list of countries.
How to Get to Macau from Hong Kong
There are two main ferries which can be taken to Macau, the Turbo Jet and Cotai Water Jet. These can be taken from the China Ferry Terminal on Kowloon Island or Hong Macau Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong Island. In Macau, the terminals are at Macau Ferry Terminal and Taipa Ferry Terminal. Ticket prices an can be found on the Cotai WaterJet and Turbo Jet Websites
Immigration and Currency
As a Zimbabwean citizen, I need a visa to enter Macau. If you need visa you can easily get it for MOP100 or the Hong Kong Dollar equivalent. It is issued with no hassles and within a few minutes. If you already have Hong Kong Dollars you can use them in Macau, you must remember you cannot use Macanese Pataca in Hong Kong.
Things to do in Macau
Visit the St Paul’s Church Ruins. In spite of the huge crowds that flock to the ruins it remains one of the main attractions in Macau. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005 and it is part of the Historic Centre of Macau.
Macao Museum and Monte Fortress
Visit the Macao Museum and Monte Fortress. admission into the Museum if free.
Senado Square
Explore the Senado Square or Largo do Senado which is also listed in the World Heritage Sites. It is the central square and many of the city’s public events are held here.
The Venetian, Parisian, The Wynn Palace and City of Dreams
Things to remember
- Leave Hong Kong early most of the places are always busy with tourists.
- Remember to carry your passport as this is required to leave Hong Kong and to enter Macau
- Buy a return ticket in Hong Kong, this just saves you a not of time but remember to take note of sailing times on the ferry websites.
