At the streets of Macau on our Arrival
My journey to Southwest and Mainland China a few years ago made my fascination for this country grow. Everything seems to be a large spectacle from ancient to modern as seen through their engineering feats. When I learned I’ll be visiting Macau (or Macao), a Special Administrative Region of China, I got curious on the extent of how the lavish world of mainland China would spill over into this small region not much larger than the city of Makati Philippines. It’s also a region with a perfect blend of the east and west and goes through my quest to visit Asia’s Heritage Trails.
Flying from NAIA Terminal 3 for Macau
I met up with the whole group at NAIA Terminal 3 for our evening flight to Macau. I along with fellow bloggers, Nina, Kaoko, Christine, Estan and Ivan were invited by Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) for a familiarization tour of Macau. We had a briefing a few days ago so most of us had an idea what to expect but everyone was excited. Especially most of us were first timers to Macau.
Meeting João and waiting for our coach
Our flight departed on time at 7:30pm and arrived 2 hours later. Macau International Airport was surprisingly small. As soon as we enter the premises we were already a few steps to immigration. Passing through we didn’t have to walk long to the baggage section. That’s how small it was, but it was clean and orderly.
Riding to the City
Mr. João Sales, a tall Portuguese guy who speaks very good English greeted us upon our arrival. He’s the MGTO PR executive in Macau. On our coach headed to the city, he already exhibited his taste of humor while telling us some info about Macau.
Uncle Turtle Firing up the Noodles
I was already shooting away with my Olympus E-PL1 on the coach as play of lights from the city passed through our windows was too delightful to resist. Soon we found ourselves on an old neighborhood of Macau. The residential buildings have barred windows aside from the air conditioners and walls stains on their facades. João, told us that the government passed a mandate to bar windows to avoid residents from extending their area.
At the lobby of Sofitel Ponte 16 Macau
We found Little Turtle by the street busy cooking noodles. João said hi and introduced the group while he nods and gave in a conservative smile to acknowledge our presence. He continued working on the noodles which were to be our dinner. (For our full account of our sumptuous dinner at Little Turtle check out Happyfoodies.com)
Our deluxe room at Sofitel
Satiated, we were ready to retire for the night and headed for a quick drive to Sofitel Ponte 16 Resort Macau which would be our home base in Macau for several nights. The lobby was spacious, warm and exquisite. We were each given our assigned rooms and reminded us of our wakeup call tomorrow. We decided to take our baggage and carry them up ourselves excited to find our room, rest and get ready for a long day after this night.
For a moment, I thought the first photo was in Binondo, then its Macau. I love to see the old Macau city centre itself. Do they still speak Portuguese there?
Very crisp pics bro…Macau is becoming more and more a tourist favorite destination..
I loved Macau when we went here about 3 years ago. Sadly, we only had half a day to explore. I hope we can go back soon and try the noodles and of course the casino
I saw the similarities with Manila as well Bernie! I didn’t hear Portuguese spoken as much unless they are one
Thanks Major Tom! yes, it’s turning out to be one popular tourist destination.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy those Noodles Kate. They’re really good.
I thought maybe Shenshen is more beautiful than Macau, though i haven’t been there too. Thanks. As usual, of course, i always love your photos.
I haven’t been to Shenzen as well Andrea but I’ve been to nearby Guangzhou and I kinda like the vibe here in Macau
i like the look of the old macau but looks like through these posts ill like the new macau as well.
I’m planning to go to Macau next month. Can’t wait to read your other reviews/adventures in Macau…and your photos too.
Wow that hotel is really nice. Another great adventure is commencing here.