MACAU

Only an hour’s ride by jetfoil, Macau has a very different atmosphere from Hong Kong. It is strongly influenced by 450 years of Portuguese rule. Despite all the changes of the past decade, Macau is still quieter, more relaxed and a bit less expensive than Hong Kong. You can walk around the center of Macau in just a couple of hours.

The transition of sovereignty from Portuguese rule to Chinese took place in December, 1999. Like Hong Kong, the principle of "one country, two systems" is followed. Also, like Hong Kong, a chief executive was elected, Mr. Edmund Ho Hau-wah.

The remains of St Paul's Church in Macau

Gambling casinos have a larger cash turnover than Las Vegas and attract tourists from all over the world including China. The recent addition of many Las Vegas type casinos has made Macau quickly become the world’s leading casino destination. Many casinos are under construction. The pataca is Macau’s currency and is traded at the same rate as the HK dollar. Casino bets are in HK dollars. The authentic Portuguese restaurants alone are worth the trip. Portuguese wine and good olive oil are cheap.

The Portuguese founded Macau in 1557. Remnants of colonial rule - old cemeteries, cobblestone streets and decaying mansions give it an ageless feel. The ruins of Saint Paul’s Church are a remnant of Macau’s colonial Catholic past. Only its imposing facade remains, atop a wide flight of stairs. It has become the symbol of Macau. The façade’s bas-relief statues tell the history of Asian Catholicism. Begun in 1602, Saint Paul’s burned down in 1835. It was one of the grand churches in Asia. The diocese of Macau controlled most of the Catholic Church in Asia. At the rear, beneath the ruins is a tribute to the Japanese Catholic martyrs. Across the street, at the foot of the old fort is a Macau history museum.

Macau has two racetracks, one for thoroughbred horse racing and the other for greyhound racing. The larger hotels have squash and gymnasium facilities. You can hire a motorized water scooter at Hac Sa beach on Coloane Island. Macau has good shopping. Check with the Ship Support Office for details on going to Macau.

The cost of jetfoils to Macau on weekdays (Monday-Friday) is HK$135, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays is HK$146 and after 1700 is HK$168.00 and can be booked at Tel: 2921-6688.