Central Business District In The Macau Peninsula, One Of The Many Faces Of Macau
The best way to envision Macau is to imagine what a Portuguese city today would look like if it had been colonized by China in recent history
. The cobbled streets are lined with fortresses, churches and dwellings largely evocative of old European architectural styles exuding a quaint Mediterranean charm. However, it would take a while for the new visitor to succumb to the sweet old-world charm of the place; the Chinese signage appearing on every surface gives one the jarring, surreal feeling of having entered an alternative universe where the hemispheres have somehow become crossed.This colonial beauty has of recent years become somewhat eroded to make way for the gambling establishments such as mega-casinos and glamorous hotels which started to proliferate the area a few years ago in the wake of legislature legalizing gambling in Macau. While this gave the city a distinct advantage over its sister cities of Hong Kong and Shanghai, the resulting tourist boom has given rise to a rapid urbanization and city development, transforming the area from a sleepy old town to a booming metropolis.
The commingling of modern commercial glamour with UNESCO-recognized colonial heritage is best highlighted in the central business and administrative district of the Macau peninsula. Although this area only spans a scant 8.5 square kilometers, it is the most populous and built up in the whole territory. The city center is at once home to most of Macaus gambling and entertainment hotspots and the lions share of its historical attractions. Macaus main ferry and land border terminals are located within this district; therefore, the first taste of Macau most visitors to the city will experience will be of the peninsula.
The Macau Heritage Walk circuit encompasses the 25 major buildings recognized by UNESCO and is the staple event of any tourist who wishes for a comprehensive exploration of the city. This tour takes one through the city centers most famous Chinese temple, A -Ma, which also houses the Macau Maritime Museum; the oldest residential square of Lilau which epitomizes the citys Mediterranean charm; St. Augustines Square around which is clustered the most prominent historic landmarks of Macau; the Senate Square, accepted as the heart of the city, and the citys most famous landmark which is the ruined St. Pauls Cathedral, thought to be the greatest tribute to Christianity in Asia. The main Macau museum is found above St. Pauls. The beautiful Lou Lim Ioc and Luis De Camoes gardens are popular places of recreation where residents escape from the noise of the city to relax and indulge in some tai-chi.
The more modern face of Macau, symbolized by the popular viewing platform of Macau Tower, comprises the waterfront casinos and bars such as Rio Hotel & Casino and the Casino Lisboa, as well as those found in the northeast and the ZAPE strip of street, whose establishments range from elite to fairly down market. Avenida de Republica is unquestionably one of the most beautiful residential areas in the city, with its tree-lined streets and lake views. The Rua da Felicidade translates into Happiness Street, a moniker that shopaholics would agree with, as it is lined with rare antiques and handicraft boutiques. Those who would rather lighten their purses shopping rather than gambling will have ample opportunity at the Red Market (beloved of foodies) and the bargain-hunters dream of the Three Lamps.
Visitors who will best experience Macau travel are, of course, those who can afford the 5 star hotels Macau is becoming famous for. One such luxury experience is The Venetian Macao Hotel which is one of the most bewilderingly large flagship properties boasted by the city of Macau. Delightful luxury is really the only way to feel at home in this glamorous area of town.
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