Travel to Macau means arriving at Macau International Airport, MIA, a very busy airport for an island smaller than the size of Rhode Island with half as many people. Arrivals run around million per year. The airport open in November 1995 as a vital link between the Pearl River Delta, the fastest growing economic region in the world, and the rest of the world. Macau’s hinterland is Zhuhai, one of China’s Special Economic Zones, and a regional manufacturing powerhouse. Thus, the airport was built up to provide an alternative regional hub to Hong Kong International Airport, but it has also serves as an end point for those seeking a gaming and leisure vacation on a historic island.
Travel to Macau
The airport provides last minute, duty-free shopping and a variety of international food outlets. MIA also offers free Wi-Fi in the terminal and a pay-at-entry Plaza Premium Lounge in the International Departures terminal, near Gate 5. Admission runs around $50, payable through WeChat.
Those traveling to Macau and staying there can take of the many comfortable, complimentary shuttle buses to and from the Macau International Airport to their hotel. Find one at the north exit of the airport toward the parking lot. Buses depart every 15-20 minutes between 11:00 am and 9:00 pm.
Macau International Airport launch check-in service in Hong Kong Ferry Terminal. Passengers arriving at the Hong Kong Ferry Terminal berth 103 can check-in the same day with a valid ticket and all the baggage will be tag to final destination. Passengers will be transfer by the “Express Link” bus to Macau International Airport departure hall and ready for boarding the aircraft. Taxis fares start at $2.35 for the first mile.
Where is Macau?
Travelers to Macau will find it just 37 miles west of Hong Kong and it has a rich history to be explored through colonial as well as forward-facing architecture and urban development. Macau is a significant destination on map of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in China.
Getting Around Macau
There are lots of ways to get around Macau. There are two bus companies that operate in the city and they are TRANSMAC and TCM and they are known to cover most of the attractions in the city and also the hotels. Taxis are also in abundance and they provide convenient service to local citizens and tourists but it may a little hard to hail a taxi in the city. The taxis here are mainly in white and yellow and they can hold up to six passengers during the trip.
Best Time to Travel to Macau
The best time to visit the city is in the autumn season which is between October to December. At this period, most of the days are going to be fine without rain and typhoon. Between March to May which is the spring period in Macau usually features an oceanic monsoon climate is the rainy season and it rains a lot. The summer in Macau usually features high temperature and humid climate and there is also summer showers with typhoons and thunderstorms at some time. If you want to explore the city it is best to come between March to May or September to November but if you just want to spend your time in the resorts, any time of the year is suitable.
Top Things to Do in Macau
House of Dancing Water
The House of Dancing Water was create by Franco Dragone, well known for his Cirque du Soleil productions. The show features 90 minutes full of high-energy, sets with divers, acrobats, dancers, and motorcyclists performing stunning stunts.
Nam Van Lake Cybernetic Fountain show
The Cybernetic Fountain is regard as the largest manmade water fountain in Asia. It features 86 water spouts and the main cannon that shoots water at over 240 feet high. A laser show at this fountain uses 288 choreograph color spotlights shining through the falling water. The laser show is free to watch and takes place at various time intervals.
Explore Macau Tower
This is the tallest building in Macau and mind-blowing views from the observation deck, including free-falls for those who like to bungee jump. The tower also offers entertainment, dining and shopping.
Guia Hill
From Guia hill, check out Guia Fort and the lighthouse. The fort was build in 1865 and its main aim was to defend the city. Explore barracks, ammunition caches, water cisterns, and a cathedral that was dedicated to Our Lady of Guia. One of the best ways to explore is through a cable car for views and stops at trails that lead from the fort to the surroundings.
Macau Travel Tips
+ Although Macau is a very safe and tourist experience low levels of crime, it is best not to throw caution in the wind. This means while you are exploring the city, you should take care of your passports and take along with you the amount that you will needing to explore the city.
+ It is best to visit Macau during the weekdays or offseason if you do not like too many crowds.
+ The city has a unique currency as there are two different currencies that are use and accept in the city. The official currency of Macau is the Macanese Pataca (MOP) while Hong Kong Dollars (HKD and worth about 13 cents) is also accept.
Get Social