From Macau's Hidden Gems to Glittering Casinos: My Epic Asian Adventure

Hi everyone, Mark here! I'm back with another exciting Asian adventure, this time in Macau! I recently spent four days exploring this fascinating blend of Portuguese and Chinese culture, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable trip. From hiking scenic trails to marveling at a breathtaking golden tree, Macau exceeded all my expectations. This trip was particularly special because I combined my love for exploring lesser-known spots with experiencing some of Macau’s iconic landmarks. Get ready for a detailed account of my incredible journey!

A Smooth Crossing into Macau

My journey started at the Hengqin Port in Zhuhai. This border crossing is incredibly modern; it's like a shopping mall! The security check was efficient and smooth—I was through in just five minutes! Following the signs, I easily hopped onto a public bus. A word to the wise: Macau buses primarily accept cash (MOP6, so keep some change handy!). I thankfully had some leftover Hong Kong dollars.

A Unique Macau Itinerary: Hiking and Pandas!

My Macau adventure kicked off with an unconventional route. I wanted something off the beaten path, so I started at the Stone Pai Wan Countryside Park, located at Macau's southernmost point. This park is a hidden gem, a peaceful oasis with blooming flowers and surprisingly quiet—perfect for escaping the tourist crowds. The highlight? The panda enclosure! Seeing these adorable creatures munching on bamboo was a highlight of my day. The park also houses other animals, turning it into an unexpected mini-zoo.

Fueling Up with Local Flavors

After my panda encounter, I fueled up at a local coffee shop, Han Kee Hand-beaten Coffee, known for its delicious coffee, noodles, and chicken wings. It even boasts the endorsement of Chow Yun-fat! The cafe offered a charming and authentic local experience.

A Coastal Walk to Black Sand Beach

My next adventure was a long walk—a 78km hike to Coloane Village and then to Hac Sa Beach (Black Sand Beach)! The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. I walked along the coast, admiring the colorful buildings and festive Christmas decorations.

Andersen Bakery's Famous Egg Tarts

I made a detour to the famous Lord Stow's Bakery (Andersen's Bakery) for their renowned Portuguese egg tarts. Let me tell you, they were heavenly! Warm, flaky, and bursting with creamy custard – absolutely worth the wait in line.

The Wonders of Hac Sa Beach

The highlight of my hike was finally reaching Hac Sa Beach. The black sand is incredibly unique, its dark color stemming from the minerals in the ocean. Climbing to the top of Coloane Alto (疊石塘山), the highest point in Macau (170.6 meters), rewarded me with panoramic views of the beach, the surrounding countryside, and even parts of Zhuhai, China. The breathtaking view from the summit, featuring unique rock formations, made the climb entirely worthwhile. From here, I spotted the Macau airport, its runway clearly visible, a testament to Macau’s innovative land reclamation projects. The vista was truly spectacular.

Exploring Coloane Village and its Charm

After my hike, I explored Coloane Village. This quaint fishing village retains its original character, offering a welcome contrast to the bustling city. The peacefulness of this area was a delightful respite. I discovered charming little streets and enjoyed a relaxing meal at a local restaurant.

Macau's Hidden Gems: Quiet Moments Amidst the City

My Macau exploration continued with visits to less-visited spots, revealing the quieter side of the city, far from the typical tourist routes. I enjoyed quiet strolls along coastal paths, discovering charming gardens, and marveling at the architectural details of local churches. This allowed me to experience a more authentic side of Macau.

The Spectacle of the Wynn Palace's Golden Tree

My trip wouldn't be complete without experiencing the Wynn Palace's renowned performance of the Golden Tree. This stunning spectacle, featuring a mesmerizing light show and a gigantic, rotating tree made of gold leaves, is truly awe-inspiring. The sheer opulence was overwhelming, a true testament to Macau's wealth. The show, free to view, runs every hour, and the detail and craftsmanship are simply incredible. Even though I've seen it before, it's always a must-see for me when visiting Macau.

Macau's Transportation: A Mix of Old and New

Macau's transportation system is a blend of traditional buses and the modern, driverless metro. Navigating the city was easy, although cash is still king for buses. The metro offered a comfortable and efficient way to explore the more developed areas.

Macau's Culinary Delights

From egg tarts to local noodles and international fare, Macau’s food scene is diverse and delicious. I sampled a wide array of dishes, from traditional Portuguese cuisine to modern interpretations of Asian flavors. I even tried some local favorites at a popular restaurant in Coloane Village and enjoyed my meal with many local people.

Affordable Accommodation in Coloane

I opted for budget-friendly accommodation in Coloane, allowing me to experience a more authentic local vibe. My hotel room, though small, was clean, comfortable, and offered stunning views of the city. The price was exceptionally reasonable, particularly when compared to hotels in the city center.

A Glimpse into the He Hongshen Collection at the Lisboa Casino

My final stop was the Lisboa Casino, home to the renowned collection of Stanley Ho, the "King of Gambling." Although photography wasn't permitted inside the casino itself, I spent time admiring the exquisite collection of gold and jade artifacts displayed in the lobby. It truly was a sight to behold! The sheer wealth and artistry of the pieces was simply breathtaking. I learned so much about this collection.

Table: Macau's Highlights