A former Portuguese colony, Macau is one of two special administrative states in China and sits just across from the more well-known administrative state of Hong Kong. This beautiful, highly-developed peninsula sits on the western side of the Pearl River Delta and for centuries served as a port between China and Europe and heavily influenced by its Portuguese residents. Macau travel provides wonderful opportunities to see the region’s mixed heritage and those who visit Macau will enjoy the rich local culture, unique natural surroundings and exciting nightlife, which is dominated by the presence of dozens of casinos. The peninsula is also littered with gorgeous Sino-European architecture and a population that embraces both its Chinese and Portuguese roots so many post-colonial years later. Travel to Macau and see why the region has become such a beloved international tourist destination, especially for the monied crowd. Let our Macau travel guide lead the way.
Things Not to Miss in Macau
• Travel to the region in November for the Macau Grand Prix
• Explore the more than 500-year-old A-Ma Temple, one of the oldest Taoist temples in the world
• Visit the Historic Centre of Macau, which features architecture influenced by both Chinese and Portuguese culture
• Explore the famous ruins of St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Catch a horse race on Taipa Island
• Visit Guia Fort, located on the peninsula’s highest point and offering unrivaled views of the city below
• Tour the outsized Macau Museum of Art
• Sip a cup of tea in the Lung Wah Tea House or visit the Macau Wine Museum
• Walk across the Ponte de Amizade or Bridge of Friendship, and visit the neighboring islands of Taipa and Coloane
When to Go to Macau
Like much of South China, Macau experiences a significant monsoon season. Precipitation is at its worst between April and September when inches of rainfall hover in the double digits. So, for those looking to stay dry and avoid the rain as much as possible, visit the region between October and March when days are just warm enough (60 to 70 degrees on average) and humidity is at its lowest.
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