Archive for the ‘China’ Category
Icons of Macau
Macau earned its fame as one of the most beautiful places in the world and Macau tourism is furthered by the presence of different structural icons of the city. Through these picturesque architectural pieces, Macau became known to many people and many get convinced to visit the region once in a while!
It is probably safe to say that the most famous symbol of Macau is the Macau Tower.
More than just an icon, the Macau Tower is also a tourist destination. Standing magnificently at 338 m, it gives anyone a breathtaking panoramic view of Macau’s skyline.
Soaring at 223 m above the ground, the observation deck of Macau Tower is worth the visit. There are restaurants and cafés on the floor like the 360° Café, 180 Lounge and Grill, Itacho Sushi and Ice Cream Wonderland.
The Macau Tower also offers ultimate extreme adventures. The landmark is also hailed s the World’s Highest Bungee Jump spot so freefall from the deck is never the same. There is also the Sky Jump which makes one (or two) feel like flying across the city. The Mast Climb is another adventure which brings its guests to Macau’s highest peak, the very top of the tower (which is another 100 m from the deck). Lastly, there is the SkyWalk X where people walk on the outer rim of the observation deck without handrail!
The Macau Tower also has venues for sophisticated gatherings. There is the Grand Hall, the Banquet Hall, the Exhibition Hall, the Theatre and the Outdoor Plaza. Retail stores for shopping are at the basement.
As Macau is known as a somewhat luxurious region, it is also safe to say that another icon of the city is the Venetian Hotel.
Hailed as the largest casino in the world, the Venetian Macao is one of the most visited and admired buildings in the city. Located at the Cotai Strip, this luxurious and fabulous hotel-casino is sure to fascinate its guests and visitors even at first sight.
The façade, alone, of The Venetian Macau is superbly designed to reflect the sophistication of the establishment. At night, it glimmers royally making all others disappear. IT has a 38-storey hotel tower which houses 3000 suites.
Its casino covers a total space of 51,000 meters square. Divided into 4 themed gaming areas (Golden Fish, Imperial House, Red Dragon, Phoenix), it has over 3400 slot machines and 800 gaming tables; not to mention the private gaming rooms exclusive for Paiza Club members.
The Venetian Macau is an indefinite beauty. Aside from the rooms and casino, one main attraction is the San Luca Canal where guests can ride gondolas like in Venice, Italy. It is situated in the middle of a romantic indoor shopping arcade famous for its false ceiling equipped with different lighting systems to provide the appeals of morning, afternoon and evening.
It is indeed a regret not to lay eyes on these great icons of Macau so tourists should visit the region. Macau hotels are abundant and HotelsinAsia.com.sg will always be ready to help anyone for booking.
Enjoying Macau Weather
Macau is not a tropical country. Nonetheless, Macau weather during July is suitable for relaxation and some extravagant trips to the beach. During this time, people flock in to the shores of the region to plunge into the cold water, enjoy basking under the heat of the sun while lying on a soft bed of white sand, and just adoring the spectacular view of the ocean and sky.
The first thing that will come to the minds of many locals and tourists when summer starts is the Coloane Island. It lies in the southernmost part of Macau and is an indispensable part of the region when it comes to tourism.
Basically, Coloane Island is famous for its pristine beaches. The most famous among the list is the Hac Sa Beach which name literally derived from the black sand for which it is popular. The ocean water is cold and the waves are generally calm, perfect for swimming and total relaxation. This beach is a good spot for youth camps as there are facilities like youth hostels, sports complex, tennis courts and others.
Other attractions are the fascinating architectural styles which abound in the city. One is the St. Francis Xavier Church built on 1928. It displays a baroque style of architecture and flaunts vivid colors painted on its walls. Other remarkable structures are the Kun Iam Temple, the Temple of Tin Hau, and those in the A-Ma Cultural Village.
Coloane Island is connected to the mainland by the Cotai Strip which is incredibly famous for its luxurious hotels and casinos so it is much easier to enjoy the vacation.
The famous Coloane Island is a major tourist destination in Macau, but specifically, a major contributor to this title is the Hac Sa Beach.
Located in the southernmost island of Coloane, this undeniable paradise is just one of the many attractions, but is actually the most famous beach in the city. As the longest beach in Macau as well, the Hac Sa beach is set different among the rest.
The name Hac Sa literally means ‘black sand’ and this name derived from the fact that stretched along the long coast of the famed beach is black tinged sand. It is a unique characteristic of the place but to avoid erosion, the government had to mix in yellow sand.
In the Hac Sa Beach, there are lots of activities to do. Aside from sunbathing and swimming, vacationers can play on the vast ocean water on jet skis, which are available for rent.
Near the beach is the Hac Sa Sports and Recreation Ground, a perfect spot for youth camps and field trips. It has a youth hostel to cater the lodging needs of the youngsters, as well as recreational facilities like tennis courts, Olympic sized and kids’ swimming pools, badminton courts and more. Though there are restaurants around, barbecue facilities are still provided for more exciting bonding sessions.
It is not bad to enjoy the weather so tourists are invited to take the plunge on Macau’s beaches. For Macau hotel reservations, visit HotelsinAsia.com.sg.
Religious Tourism in Macau
Religion is a part of Macau’s culture and most Macau package brings tourists to different sites in the region which are important to different religions. While some people may see this as boring destinations, many still look forward to visiting the religiously significant structures in Macau which are actually iconic structures as well.
One of the most favorite itineraries of many tour packages to Macau is the A-Ma Temple. Constructed on 1488 during the Ming Dynasty, the A-Ma Temple in Southeast Macau is hailed as the oldest temple in the region. It was built in dedication to Mazu, a sea goddess who blesses the fishermen of Macau. According to locals, she saves fishermen from dangers and calamities on the ocean.
The A-Ma Temple is also called the Barra Temple, as it is situated in a slope of the Barra Hill. The temple is primarily famous for its magnificent architecture. It has six main parts which are adorned with impressive details and designs: the Gate Pavilion, Memorial Arch, Prayer Hall, Hall of Benevolence, Hall of Guanyin and Zhengjiao Chianlin. It displays an architectural aesthetics of Chinese influence which is certainly remarkable.
However, it is not only the architectural design which makes the A-Ma Temple truly remarkable. With its age, it has been one icon of the Chinese legacy. Etched on its walls are the rich and colorful stories which basically comprise the unique and wonderful culture and history of Macau, and the rest of China.
The A-Ma Temple is believed to be a mandatory destination for people who are travelling to Macau; because aside from its religious importance, it is also one of the most important structures in Macau’s history.
After visiting the old temple, tourists may go for a drive to the Statue of Guan Yin which is visited not only for its religious importance but for learning as well.
A significant attraction, the Statue of Guan Yin stands tall at 20 meters in a 7 meter lotus. It is located on a man-made island at the harbour, with a pathway connected to the mainland. This bronze statue is a representation of the traditional goddess, Guan Yin, who is recognized and honoured by numerous religions as Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism as the Goddess of Mercy. Others say that the statue is a combination of the Holy Mary and the said goddess.
It is a picturesque structure in Macau and it draws a lot of tourists, particularly students. Just below the statue is the Kun Lam Ecumenical Center, an educational and entertaining site for anyone who is interested on cultural things. It has two floors. The first level is where tourists may buy souvenirs and stuffs. The second level is a venue for mini-conferences with a capacity of 50 people.
The statue was designed by the famous Portuguese artist, Cristina Rocha Leiria.
The A-Ma Temple and the Statue of Guan Yin are just some of the religious structures in Macau. Other sites may be visited. Tourists should not worry about Macau hotels . Visit HotelsinAsia.com.sg and we’ll take care of the rest.
MACAU’S PAST AND PRESENT
One amazing fact about Macau is that it has the ability to bring tourists to the past and the present at a span of a day. It is a place where the past and the present manage to co-exist and justify the beauty that it actually is. That is why many people do not just laze off on their chosen hotel in Macau; because there’s a lot of explorations and discoveries to do.
If there is one place which best represent the old and elegant city life of Macau, it is surely the Senado Square. Constructed on 1918 crossing over the notable Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, this magnificent place in the city attracts so many tourists; as it is also part of UNESCO’s Historic Centre of Macau.
One remarkable thing about the Senado Square is its wave-patterned mosaic flooring. It is magnificently and elaborately designed for an elegant appeal. It matches so well the structures built around the area. Flaunting neo-classical designs in colors pleasing to the eyes, the buildings are definitely perfect for capture on cameras. Structures of interest are the Leal Senado, the General Post Office and the St. Dominic’s Church.
In the past, the Senado Square is where governors inspect their military troops and police forces. Nowadays, it has become of the most ideal spots for public celebration. It is also a good area to stroll – especially at night when the lights turn the area into a golden charm, exuding a very romantic appeal.
Falling in love with the Senado Square is like falling in love with Macau’s history – and it is easy. But it does not mean that people should be stuck in the past. Exploring the present is also ideal and to do so, coming to the Central Business District of Macau is recommended.
The CBD may not be a perfect counterpart of the Senado Square but it sure represents the modern Macau. The area gives home to numerous skyscrapers creating a very beautiful skyline. Whether during day time or night time – when the cityscape is glimmering due to the colorful lights emitted by the buildings, a very breathtaking spectacle can be obtained.
Many may argue that the Central Business District of the city is not much of a tourist attraction. Indeed, there are no much historical sites and cultural representations in the area. But the fact that it exhibits different architectural styles of the modern age is enough to draw contemporary architecture enthusiasts to its streets. Perfect for capture are numerous structures. One remarkable is the BNU Tower, an edifice standing tall at the heart of the district and is owned by the Portuguese-operated bank, Banco Nacional Ultramarino.
These two attractions are both interesting and tourists’ needs are catered as there are many Macau hotels near these areas. To help you with booking, visit HotelsinAsia.com.sg.
Macau Tour Equates to Learning and Discovery
It is surely impossible for a Macau tour to be complete if you do not understand the history and heritage of the region. To do so, you have to go around the whole place, visit the different iconic structures, and indulge yourself with the ways of living of the people. Or you could visit museums to see items proving the existence of Macau’s beautiful past.
There are a number of museums in the region to help you with discovering the region but there is no faster way of understanding Macau than paying a visit to one of the most important structures ever built in the city – the Museum of Macau.
Standing proud on the historical fort of the Fortaleza de Monte, the museum is a hot spot for tourists. With a total area size of 2,800 meters square, the Museum of Macau gives home to different artefacts and cultural keepsakes which serve as living witnesses to the fast development of the city of Macau.
The building boasts of a contemporary design. It basically consists of three storeys – each focusing on the different eras and aspects of the history and culture of Macau. At the first floor, the origin and pre-historic days of the city is explained through exhibits. The second floor is dedicated to the socio-cultural aspects of the city. The third floor shows the contemporary Macau.
Outside, a breathtaking view of the city of Macau can be obtained. There is also a souvenir shop selling cheap stuffs and a bar with esplanade for the visitors and guests.
Through the Macau Museum, you will get to understand the past. But it has to be known that you are also entitled to obtain an idea of how Macau could be in the future. Through the Macau Science Center, you will not just understand Science. You will also see the technological possibilities for the region and the rest of the world.
Completed only on 2009, the Macau Science Center boasts of high technology materials that will best explain the different truths about the world we live in. Housed in the very modern and extravagant architectural piece located in Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen are different exhibits and facilities grouped according to the interests of the visitors.
Interactive galleries on focusing on children, technology, environment and lifestyle are opened for more fun. Demonstrations about the motion capture system, liquid nitrogen and other things are held for easy understanding as well.
Facilities are definitely incredible as well. It has a 5-storey exhibition center in which the galleries are situated. It also has a scenic pavilion from which the outside environment can be viewed. There is also a 700 square meter convention center in which gatherings and conventions can be held. Lastly, it has a planetarium which uses high-technology 3D projectors.
Indeed, the Macau Science Center is one incredible landmark in the city; and with it, learning Science will never be the same again.
A Macau travel isn’t just always about enjoyment. It’s also about learning. So visit now! Let HotelsinAsia.com.sg take charge of your Macau hotel bookings.
Sensing Portugal in Macau
The Portuguese people have played a great role in molding the history and heritage of Macau. During their settlement in the city, they managed to create legacies which are now manifested on iconic structures in the region. To locals, these buildings are proofs of their beautiful past. To tourists, these are as important as hotels in Macau. The historic buildings scattered around Macau also serve as important destinations – to relax, unwind and marvel on.
One recommended site is the Moorish Barracks. Back in 1874, the Portuguese brought an Indian troop from Goa to Macau to strengthen the police force in the region. For them, the regal structure was built. It was over two centuries ago when it was constructed. Now, the building is hailed as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.
Located at the Calcada da Barra, the Moorish Barracks displays an impressive architectural design influenced by Moorish styles with the touch of the Mediterannean elegance and flair. Its interior design exudes an exotic charm which is mainly emphasized by the well-defined arches and columns.
Outside, it flaunts spacious corridors mainly of light yellow and white colours. The natural light coming from the majestic verandas during the day further emphasizes the beauty of the building’s section. The fact that the building was elevated from the streets by a granite platform allows tourists to marvel on the beautiful environment which surrounds the building.
Due to its stunning beauty, the Moorish Barracks is hailed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Macau. At the moment, it serves as the office of Marine and Customs Police and a home to the Macao Maritime Administration.
Moorish Barracks is just one structure. For tourists who want to experience the real Portuguese settlement-feel, driving to the Lilau Square is necessary.
“Anyone who drinks in Lilau will never forget Macau” – this is a famous saying in Lilau Square and it came from the fact that the Portuguese settlement area was built around a natural spring. From this, the early residents of Lilau Square were nurtured.
But then, it is not just the fresh water of the place which is totally unforgettable. The beauty and charm of the place is filled with historical and residential buildings which designs are influenced by Portuguese architectural style.
Colorful and neatly lined up, the buildings of Lilau Square are worth visiting. Representing the unique urban feel of Macau, anybody will surely fall in love with the charisma exuded by the concrete walls and wooden doors and windows. Tourists will enjoy marvelling on these pieces of aesthetics while walking through narrow stone-paved roads which sure add to the undeniable appeal of the area.
The Lilau Square is also a part of UNESCO’s Historic Centre of Macau. It is just a few minutes away from the Moorish Barracks and other interesting edifices.
Both attractions and other structures to manifest the legacy Portuguese left are situated close to Macau hotels . So tourists will find it easy to go there after choosing a hotel to lodge on. For bookings, visit HotelsinAsia.com.sg now.
Staying in Macau can be quite fun and informative
There are plenty of great hotels in Macau, which is relatively small in size, so accessibility is not really a problem to visitors to Macau. Even if you are not into casinos, you can consider the many places of interests which Macau offers to the visitors.
Many think that learning Science is dull; but in Macau, a center was built to attract people in discovering the magic, fun and adventure of Science and Technology.
Completed only on 2009, the Macau Science Center boasts of high technology materials that will best explain the different truths about the world we live in. Housed in the very modern and extravagant architectural piece located in Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen are different exhibits and facilities grouped according to the interests of the visitors.
Interactive galleries on focusing on children, technology, environment and lifestyle are opened for more fun. Demonstrations about the motion capture system, liquid nitrogen and other things are held for easy understanding as well.
Facilities are definitely incredible as well. It has a 5-storey exhibition center in which the galleries are situated. It also has a scenic pavilion from which the outside environment can be viewed. There is also a 700 square meter convention center in which gatherings and conventions can be held. Lastly, it has a planetarium which uses high-technology 3D projectors.
Indeed, the Macau Science Center is one incredible landmark in the city; and with it, learning Science will never be the same again.
If Science is not for you, how about nature? In the middle of the high rise residential area in Taipa, Macau is a paradise hidden behind stone walls. The Flower City Garden, as how it is known, serves as an oasis from the hustle and fumes coming from the urban area.
Aside from its attractive location, one thing which made the garden a prime attraction in Macau is its fascinating landscape design. It displays the typical majesty of a Chinese garden adorned and beautified with lotus ponds, magnificent waterfalls, winding bridges and elegant pavilions – all exuding a very relaxing charm which nobody can ever deny.
The lush grass area of the Flower City Garden is perfectly taken care of so people can laze there for a while, while staring at the bright blue sky above. For kids, they may spend the whole day enjoying in the special scooter and skating area provided.
Indeed, the Flower City Garden is one lavish escape from the urban. A pride of Macau, it is surely one place to visit while in the city.
To book the Macau hotel of your choice, you should head towards HotelsInAsia.com.sg now.
Hotels in Macau is Not Just About Casino
Many visitors who head to the hotels in Macau and are interested only in the casino facilities. However, Macau offers more than just casinos! In fact, Macau has a diverse cultural background and lots of attractions which will keep you occupied and entertained.
One important place in Macau would be the Central Business District of Macau. Macau has a very beautiful skyline. During daytime, a pleasant view of the skyscrapers is made available to people. At night, the cityscape glimmers due to the colorful lights emitted by different buildings, thereby producing a very breathtaking spectacle. And thanks to the structures mainly from the Central Business District of Macau that a scene as that is produced.
Many may argue that the Central Business District of the city is not much of a tourist attraction. Indeed, there are no much historical sites and cultural representations in the area. But the fact that it exhibits different architectural styles of the modern age is enough to draw contemporary architecture enthusiasts to its streets. Perfect for capture are numerous structures. One remarkable is the BNU Tower, an edifice standing tall at the heart of the district and is owned by the Portuguese-operated bank, Banco Nacional Ultramarino.
Around the area are different hotels, restaurants and shopping areas to cater the needs of foreigners and locals alike.
If you have not seen the Macau Tower, it is highly recommended that you do so. Macau Tower is more than just an icon, the Macau Tower is also a tourist destination. Standing magnificently at 338 m, it gives anyone a breathtaking panoramic view of Macau’s skyline.
Soaring at 223 m above the ground, the observation deck of Macau Tower is worth the visit. There are restaurants and cafés on the floor like the 360° Café, 180 Lounge and Grill, Itacho Sushi and Ice Cream Wonderland.
The Macau Tower also offers ultimate extreme adventures. The landmark is also hailed s the World’s Highest Bungee Jump spot so freefall from the deck is never the same. There is also the Sky Jump which makes one (or two) feel like flying across the city. The Mast Climb is another adventure which brings its guests to Macau’s highest peak, the very top of the tower (which is another 100 m from the deck). Lastly, there is the SkyWalk X where people walk on the outer rim of the observation deck without handrail!
The Macau Tower also has venues for sophisticated gatherings. There is the Grand Hall, the Banquet Hall, the Exhibition Hall, the Theatre and the Outdoor Plaza. Retail stores for shopping are at the basement.
For your next visit to Macau, please head to HotelsinAsia.com.sg to select the most appropriate Macau hotel for your stay.
Hotels in Taipei
If you are planning to go to China for your vacation, you should definitely include Taipei in your itinerary. The capital city of Taiwan is known as one of the top international business cities in the world and home to some of China’s most progressive business hubs. Aside from that, Taipei is also home to lots of historical sites and fascinating culture that is a mix of the old and new.
Finding accommodations in the city is very easy. There are lots of hotels in Taipei that cater to visitors of different budget types. Read the rest of this entry »
Best Luxury Hotels in Macau
Macau is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist spots in Asia. This small region of China is filled with luxurious hotels that lure gamblers and golf enthusiasts from all over the world. If you want to experience the best luxury that hotels in Macau has to offer, check out this list and take your pick.
- Westin Resort Macau
Those looking for a luxury resort experience should book accommodations at the Westin Resort Macau, which is located at the end of Taipa Island. The island is a favorite among people from Hong Kong and Mainland China for leisure and relaxation. Enjoy the resort’s top-notch facilities, which include a swimming pool, recreation center, spa, and 18-hole golf course. Guest rooms have balconies that provide gorgeous views spread of the South China Sea. Read the rest of this entry »

