> > by Christine Pfeiffer
UNESCO World Heritage treasures combine with Las Vegas razzle dazzle in the former Portuguese colony of Macau. In the 16th century, the Portuguese traders and Jesuit missionaries that settled in Macau turned it into a major trading and religious base.
Although Macau was handed back to China in 1999, its Portuguese past has left it with a substantial network of heritage buildings, plazas and churches such as the ruins of St Paul’s and Senado Square that placed Macau’s old town on the UNESCO World Heritage list. St Paul’s was once the largest Catholic church in Asia. It burnt down in 1835, leaving just the stone facade intact.Wandering around Macau reveals a charming blend of Chinese and European architecture. Cobblestone streets are lined with pastel European-style townhouses. Chinese temples occupy streets with Portuguese names like Avenida do Coronel Mesquita and Rua das Estalagens. Don’t miss the A Ma Temple, which was built by fishermen in the 16th century in honour of the sea goddess. Its traditional Chinese prayer halls, pavilions and courtyards are linked by winding paths and moon-shaped gates.
Macau is the only legal place to gamble in China and rakes in more gaming revenue than Las Vegas. This astounding fact has well and truly earned Macau the title of Asia’s Las Vegas. The recent boom in casino projects is rapidly transforming the historic city into a thrilling destination with big-name casinos like Las Vegas Sands, Wynn Resorts and MGM Mirage.
City’s sexiest bar: Located on the north shore of Taipa island, 38 Lounge, on the 38th-floor of the Altira hotel, is a hotspot for cocktails, cognacs, wine and views of the Macau peninsula.
Best Romantic Dining: Tucked away in Taipa village, Antonio’s (antoniomacau.com) is the place for a quiet candlelight Portuguese dinner and a show of flamboyance when Chef António Coelho uncorks your Champagne bottle with a sword.
Sensational Shopping: The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian for luxury brands, entertainers wandering the streets and gondola rides.
Don’t miss: Eating a sweet egg tart, which was introduced to Macau by English expatriate, Andrew ‘Lord’ Stow, and can be found in local pastry shops.
Couples will love: Discovering Macau’s fascinating history together and being dazzled by the bright lights of its world-class casinos.