To be honest, Macau has never really been on my bucket list. For the longest time, I had this impression that Macau is only good as a quick side trip when people go to Hong Kong. That it was only due to its convenience, that’s why people opt to take a trip there.
But I was proved wrong. I absolutely was!When my family and I went to Macau, we went there not as a side trip, but as a main destination. And boy, did we have fun! Macau has definitely surprised me in all ways positive!
With that, allow me to share with you 8 of the most interesting things that we did when we went to Macau.
1. TAKE PHOTOS AT SENADO SQUARE
Senado Square is a UNESCO site. Many events, including Macau festivals, were and are still being held here. The beautiful Portuguese pavement and European style buildings make Senado Square a perfect spot for an obligatory travel selfie.
2. HAVE LUNCH AT WONG CHI KEI
Wong Chi Kei Noodle and Congee Restaurant is a Chinese restaurant situated at Senado Square. It is a popular food destination in Macau, so expect a long queue in case you decide to dine here. What I really like about this restaurant is that their menu has an English translation. Also, their service is very quick. I recommend that you try out their century egg. It’s really delicious!
ADDRESS: No. 17 Senado Square
3. VISIT THE RUINS OF ST. PAUL’S
The Ruins of St. Paul’s are the ruins of a 16th-century complex that includes the original St. Paul College and the Cathedral of St. Paul. Unfortunately, it was hit by a violent typhoon back in the early 1800s. What is left now is a stone facade, which became a treasured landmark in Macau. Its back part was made into a museum called the Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt that houses historical paintings and liturgical objects. The Ruins of St. Paul’s is also a UNESCO site.
4. FOOD SHOPPING
The alley that leads to The Ruins of St. Paul’s is a snack haven. There you will see loads of varieties of jerkies, cookies, biscuits, candies, and many others. And since most of the shops offer food taste, you’ll find yourself stopping by at each and one of them. Among my favorites are the almond cookie and egg roll biscuit with seaweed and pork floss inside.
5. TRY OUT MACAU’S PORK CHOP BUN
One of Macau‘s most famous snacks is their pork chop bun. It is a very simple, made-to-order snack. The bun is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. A fried pork chop fills the bun and that’s it — really simple! It is best partnered with a bubble milk tea. We tried it in a famous shop at Senado Square that was featured in an episode of the hit Korean series, Boys Over Flowers. The signage reads “Tea Plus,” and it has a huge egg tart smiley in front.
6. STROLL DOWN THE VENETIAN GRAND CANAL
The Venetian Grand Canal of Macau is designed to resemble the canals of Venice. Here you have the chance to experience a romantic ride in a gondola while being serenaded by a gondolier. Other than that, there is still so much to do here at Grand Canal as it is filled with shops, bakeries, and restaurants. The Venetian Hotel is located at Macau’s Cotai Strip.
7. TASTE THE PORTUGUESE EGG TARTS
Another one of Macau‘s favorites is the Portuguese egg tart of no other than, Lord Stow’s Bakery. The crust is crisp and flaky, and is filled with a tasty caramelized custard. It is definitely a must try!
BRANCHES:
- 1 Rua do Tassara, Coloane (Bakery)
- Shop 870 Mask Street, The Venetian Grand Canal (Bakery & Cafe)
- K13, Shoppes at The Venetian Macao Hotel (Bakery & Cafe)
- GF C Houston Court 21 Largo do Matadouro, Coloane (Garden Cafe)
- Largo do Matadouro, Coloane (Cafe)
- No. 17E & 19D Houston Court Largo do Matadouro, Coloane (Express)
8. WATCH THE TREE OF PROSPERITY/DRAGON OF FORTUNE SHOW AT WYNN HOTEL
Tourists, even those who are not staying at Wynn Hotel, take time to visit and watch the highly entertaining performance of the Tree of Prosperity and Dragon of Fortune. The show is a masterpiece of choreographed music, videos, and lights. The schedule of the show is from 10am onwards. It plays every 30 minutes, taking turns between the two shows. It is free of admission and runs for about 10 minutes only. Family and I were truly marvelled that we weren’t able to take a video, nor a photo of the show.
ADDRESS: Rua Cidade de Sintra
I left Macau wanting for more — more of the culture’s interesting blend between traditional and modern, Chinese and Portuguese. I can’t wait to go back someday!