Return to Asia
Return to the World Directory
Return Home

Travel information and tips on Macau including passport information, accommodations, transportation to and in Macau, attractions and things to see and do, restaurant suggestions, tours, and much more.

Here is a quick overview on Macau
Macau is only has about 10 square miles of area situated on a tiny peninsula at the mouth of the Pearl River about two miles from the island of Taipa. There is a population of about 450,000 with 96% of the population being Chinese and the rest Portuguese, European and from other regions. About 38 miles to the east-northeast, across the mouth of the river, is Hong Kong. The government is considered a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. The capital is Macau.
Passports and Visas
Customs and Duty Free
Money Matters
Shopping
Health Matters
Geography
Climate
Language
Social Conventions and Customs
Religion
Special Events
Communication, Electricity, and Time
Travel Warnings
Contacts for Further Information

Passports and Visas
A valid passport is required by all visitors with the exception of nationals of China who have a China Identity Card or travel permit and nationals of Hong Kong (SAR) who have a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKIC). Visas are required by all except the following: all EU countries, Czech Republic, Estonia, Iceland, Lebanon, Norway, Poland and Slovenia; and nationals of Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, The Republic of Korea, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Namibia, New Zealand, Philippines, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, the United States, nationals of China (PR), residents of Hong Kong (SAR), and Taiwan; and holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKIC) or Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card.

Nationals of all EU countries, Czech Republic, Estonia, Iceland, Lebanon, Norway, Poland and Slovenia for stays of up to 90 days.

Nationals of Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kiribati, Korea (Rep. of), Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, Namibia, New Zealand, Philippines, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and the USA for stays of up to 30 days;

(c) nationals of China (PR) with valid Macau entry/departure documents including residents of Hong Kong (SAR) and Taiwan for stays of up to 30 days;
(d) holders of a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKIC) or Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card or those with a Hong Kong Re-entry Permit for a visit of up to 1 year;

Visas are valid for 30 days and can be extended on application to the immigration office.

Individual visitors requiring a visa may obtain it upon arrival in Macau for a fee of MOP100. Visas can also be obtained from consulates or embassies of China. For other enquiries contact the Public Security Forces Bureau.

Customs and Duty Free
The following goods may be imported into Macau without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco products, 1 litre of wine and 1 litre of spirits, and other goods up to a value of MOP 10,000. There is a 5% duty on the import of electrical appliances and equipment. There are no export duties. However, as travel is almost invariably via Hong Kong, the relevant Hong Kong import/export regulations must be observed.

Restricted imports include fish, shellfish, meat and vegetables, all of which require an import permit. Prohibited items include firearms, narcotics, endangered species of animals and plants, and pesticides.

Geography
Macau is situated on a tiny peninsula at the mouth of the Pearl River. Two bridges of 1.5 miles and 2.8 miles link it to its nearest island of Taipa which in turn is joined to the island of Côloane by a 1.3 mile-long causeway. On a narrow isthmus located at the extreme northern end of the peninsula is the Portas do Cerco, or Border Gate, which leads to the Zhuhai and Zhongshan areas of the People's Republic of China. Some 38 miles to the east-northeast, across the mouth of the river, is Hong Kong.

Language
The official languages are Chinese (Cantonese) and Portuguese. English is widely spoken by those engaged in trade, tourism and commerce and English speaking visitors should not have any problems communicating.

I have found that it helps to know at least a little bit of the language as I travel in other countries. You do not have to be able to be a fluent speaker, but knowing a few key words and phrases will really help. I have found that, although almost everywhere I go I can find someone who speaks English, knowing just a few words of the local language can really be a help. And, it lets others know I am at least interested in their language.

Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center where you can find out how to learn another language, or where to purchase books, dictionaries, electronic translators, software and more. Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.

To Top

Religion
The main religions are Buddhism, Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. The majority of the people are Buddhists with the remain (about 7%) being Catholics and Protestants.

Communication, Electricity, and Time
Telephone - IDD telephone service is available with the country code being 853. The outgoing international code is 00. International facilities are available at the General Post Office at Leal Senado Square, Macau City, the Central Post Offices in Taipa and Colôane, as well as all phone booths. Mobile telephone may be used with the dual band GSM network which covers the whole territory. Main operators include CTM (website: www.macau.ctm.net) and the Hutchinson Telephone Company. Most hotels and many businesses have Fax facilities.
Internet/E-mail - ISPs include MacauWeb (www.macauweb.com).
Telegram - Services available at larger hotels and telecommunication offices, as well as at all phone booths.
Electricity - Usually 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Be sure to have a converter and an adapter. Find the converter you will need in the Getting Away Travel Store. Additionally, you will find just about anything and everything you will need when you travel. Across the state, country, or to a destination on the other side of the world, you'll find what you need in the Getting Away Travel Store!
Time - GMT + 8.

Money Matters
Currency - The currency is the Pataca (MOP) = 100 avos. Notes are in denominations of MOP1000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10 and coins are in denominations of MOP5 and 1, and 50, 20 and 10 avos. Hong Kong dollars are used extensively and widely accepted.
Credit & Debit Cards - MasterCard and Visa are accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. You may also need a special pin number.
Travelers Checks - These may be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and at many hotels. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take travelers checks in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. It is also recommended that you not use them for small purchase from merchants as you may lose quite a bit in the exchange.
Currency Restrictions - There are no restrictions on the import or export of either local or foreign currency.
Banking Hours - Banking hours are normally 0900-1700 Monday to Friday, 0900-1200 Saturday.

Currency Exchange - Get your currency needs managed in advance! Many airports, railroad stations, bus depots, and other points of entry have no currency exchange. When currency exchange is available in airports, lines can be long and rates can be "sky high". These long waits and usurious fees can be a nightmare.  Order in advance from All Foreign Currency right online. It's fast, easy, and you save time and money! The can also provide you with Travelers' checks, bank drafts, and transfers. U.S. dollars are not accepted everywhere and rates can be atrocious! Current Exchange Rate: Check Today's Exchange Rate

Health Matters
Unlike some areas of Asia, such things as yellow fever, cholera, typhoid, and malaria are not a problem and no special precautions need to be taken, nor are any certificates requires. (Diarrhoeal diseases, hepatitis A, hepatitis B and Oriental lung fluke (paragonimiasis) may occur in this area.) However, regulations and requirements may be subject to change at short notice, and you are advised to contact your doctor well in advance of your intended date of departure. Health insurance is recommended. There are good medical facilities, and hotels and some religious orders can also give assistance.

Tap water is generally regarded as safe, but bottled water may be advisable for the first few days. For me, I would stick to bottled water at all times. Milk is pasteurized, but avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

If you need medical care while you are away, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company and that you will therefore to pay in full for your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative. For compensation, you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts. It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country. Visit the Getting Away Health and Safety Tips for Travelers page for additional information about insurance.

Social Conventions and Customs
Entertaining generally takes place in restaurants and public places. A 10% service charge will be added to most hotel and restaurant bills, but a small tip should also be left. It is rare to be invited to a private home, unless the person is wealthy. Spirits are standard gifts in return for hospitality. Apart from the most formal occasions in restaurants and nightclubs, casual wear is acceptable.

Shopping
Macau's most popular buys are jewelry (particularly gold and jade), Chinese antiques, porcelain, pottery, electronic gadgetry, cameras, watches and beading work. They are available at duty-free prices because Macau is a free port and no sales tax is charged. Other popular buys are Chinese herbs and medicines, dried seafood (such as sharks' fins), abalone, Chinese and Macau pastries, and locally-made knitwear sold at stalls. When purchasing antiques, gold and jewelry, it is advisable to patronize shops recommended by the Goldsmiths' and Jewelers' Association and the Macau Government Tourist Office. A warranty and a receipt should be asked for when buying jewelry, gold, cameras, watches and electrical goods.

Bargaining is expected on many items although most shops will have the same minimum price. When bargaining, begin at a price lower than you expect to pay and then work up to a price where you feel comfortable. If you cannot reach an agreement, begin to walk away. I have found that this often with bring the price down a little more.

The main shopping area is located along the Avenida do Infante D Henrique and Avenida Almeida Ribeiro, São Domingos Market, Rua de Palha, Rua do Campo and Rua Pedro Nolasco da Silva. Antiques and unique gifts may be found in Macau's flea market in the lanes around Rua das Estalagens (near St Paul's Ruins). There is an Artisan's Fair every Saturday evening in Santo Agostinho Square. 

You can also head across the Chinese border to Zhuhai, where the first floor of the Gongbei market is well known for antiques, ceramics and fabrics. Software is also a good buy in Zhuhai.

The shopping hours are normally 1000-2000 for the whole week. Some shops may close on the first of every month.

Some Selected Special Events
The Macau Government Tourist Office (www.macautourism.gov.mo) can supply details of the many festivals celebrated in Macau. Many of these festivals are also official public holidays. Here are just some of the events that may be taking place (listed by month).
February
Procession of the Passion of our Lord, The Good Jesus
Feast of the God Toutei
March
Macau Arts Festival
May
Feast of the Bathing of Lord Buddha
Macau Open Golf Tournament
Procession of Our Lady Fatima
June
Men's World Table Tennis Championships
Macau International Dragon Boat Races
July
Feast of Kuan Tai
Feast of Na Cha
August
FIVB's World Grand Prix
Feast of the Maidens.
September
Mid-Autumn Festival
International Fireworks Festival
International Triathlon Championship of Macau
October
Festival of Ancestors
International Music Festival
National Day's Fun Run
November
Macau Squash Open
Macau Grand Prix
December
International Hockey Tournament
Macau International Marathon and Half Marathon
South China Sea Cycling Tour.

Again, contact the Macau Government Tourist Office (www.macautourism.gov.mo) for complete current details and dates of all festivals.

Climate
Macau has a Subtropical climate with very hot summers and a rainy period during the summer months. Most rain occurs in the afternoon. Winds can reach gale force, and typhoons are not unknown. Autumn (October to December) may be the best season to visit as it is then when the days are sunny and warm and the humidity is low.

Travel Warning
Travel Warnings are issued to describe long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable.  A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff.  The countries listed below meet those criteria.  Additionally, the State Department issues Country Specific Information  for every country of the world with information on such matters as the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, any areas of instability, and the location of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the subject country. Check with the U.S. State Department for Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets & Public Announcements.

Contacts for Further Information
The country dialing code is 853.

Direcção dos Serviços de Turismo
(Macau Government Tourist Office)
Largo do Senado 9, Edificio Ritz, Macau
Tel: 315 566 or 513 355. Fax: 510 104.
E-mail: mgto@macautourism.gov.mo
Website: www.macautourism.gov.mo (Macau Government Tourist Office)

Central Office of the Government of Macau SAR
Avenida da Praia Grande, Macau
Tel: 989 5313 or 989 5316. Fax: 726 168.
E-mail: info@macau.gov.mo
Website: www.macau.gov.mo

Macau Government Tourist Office
1 Battersea Church Road, London SW11 3LY
Tel: (020) 7771 7006. Fax: (020) 7771 7059.
E-mail: macau@cibgroup.co.uk

Public Security Forces Bureau
Calcada dos Quarteis, Quartel de San Francisco, Macau
Tel: 559 999. Fax: 315 543. E-mail: info@fsm.gov.mo
Website: www.fsm.gov.mo

Embassy of the People's Republic of China
2300 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008
Tel: (202) 328 2500. Fax: (202) 328 2582.
Visa section: Room 110, 2201 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20007
Tel: (202) 338 6688. Fax: (202) 588 9760.
E-mail: chinaembassy_us@fmprc.gov.cn
Website: www.china-embassy.org
Consulates General in: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York (tel: (212) 502 0269) and San Francisco.

Macau Government Tourist Office
Integrated Travel Resources Inc, Suite 660, 5757 West Century Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045-6407
Tel: (310) 670 2234 or (1 877) 622 2800 (toll free). Fax: (310) 338 0708.
E-mail: mgto@itr-aps.com
Website: www.macautourism.gov.mo

Embassy of the People's Republic of China
515 St Patrick Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5H3
Tel: (613) 9608 (visa section) Fax: (613) 789 1414 (visa section and 24-hour recorded information line)
Consulates General in: Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver.

Getting To Macau
By Air
By Sea
By Road

By Air
Macau and the surrounding territory has its own airline, Air Macau (NX), which operates regional flights. Other airlines serving Macau include Air Koryo, China Northwest, China Southwest, Domodedovo Airways (from Moscow), EVA Airways, Singapore Airlines and TransAsia Airways. Additionally, there is a variety of charter airlines operate from Japan.

Flights from Europe and North America are usually via Hong Kong. From Hong Kong to London is 14 hours

Macau International Airport (MFM) (www.macau-airport.gov.mo) is 4 miles southeast of the city. An ExpressLink service has been introduced which allows fast, trouble-free transfers between Macau and Hong Kong Airports. Ferries depart approximately every 15 minutes (journey time - 55 minutes). On arrival at Macau Ferry Terminal, passengers travel by a special shuttle bus to the enclave's airport. Travelers should allow approximately 1 hour between ferry arrival time in Macau and departure time from Macau International Airport.

Buses run to the city and Macau-Hong Kong ferry terminal via major hotels (journey time - 15-30 minutes). Bus fares cost MOP6. Taxis to the city center are also available for approximately MOP40. Airport facilities include banks and bureaux de change (24 hours), car-rental, duty-free shops and restaurants.

East Asia Airlines operates 25 daily flights between Hong Kong and Macau in two 8-seat Bell 222 helicopters. Travel time is about 16 minutes and the cost is about HK$1205 (weekdays) or HK$1306 (weekends and public holidays) one way. Helicopters depart from the Macau Maritime and Heliport Terminal, situated in the Outer Harbour.

There is a departure tax of MOP80 per person for destinations in China, and MOP130 for other destinations. Children under 12 pay reduced rates. Payment must be made in local currency.

 

At Travelocity, not only can you find the lowest fare or best schedule on over 400 airlines, but Travelocity can often save you up to 20% or More on Airfares. You can also find the Best Car Rental Rates in Top Destinations. You can also find Great Hotel Rates At Top Destinations! And, to save even more, Book Air + Hotel Together and SAVE with Travelocity! You can also find Incredible Deals on the Best Cruises! Remember - Travelocity Always Saves You on Flights, Hotels, Car Rentals, Cruises and More.

For Flights, Hotels, Cars, Cruises, Vacations, Tours and Travel Deals, Click on Global Travel International. If the link does not work properly, type www.gettingaway.globaltravel.com in the address line of your browser.

By Sea
It is only about 35 miles or so between Macau and Hong Kong and a wide variety of vessels sail this distance including jetfoils, jumbocats, turbocats, hover-ferries and catamarans. There are more than 100 scheduled sailings each way throughout the day and the jetfoils operate round the clock. Passengers should plan to be at the terminals about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time in order to complete immigration formalities.

Jetfoils depart every 15 minutes from 0700, and every 30 minutes between 1730/1800 and 4am (travel time - 55 minutes). Fares vary from MOP137 up to MOP182. Turbocat services take an hour and cost between MOP137 up to MOP1604. Catamaran services take 1 hour and 10 minutes and cost from MOP119 up to MOP160.

Tickets to Hong Kong can be bought in Macau up to 7 days in advance. For travel from Hong Kong to Macau, jetfoil and jumbocat tickets can be bought up to 28 days in advance. Telephone bookings for jetfoil services can be made by holders of Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club and American Express (tel: (+852) 28 59 65 96); further information can be obtained from the Far East Hydrofoil Company Ltd (tel: (+852) 28 59 33 51 or (in Macau) 790 7039).

There are also jetcat and ferry services to cities in the Guangdong province of China.

The baggage allowance is 11kg per person on high-speed ferries and in general is limited to hand-carried items. If you will be on a tour, not to worry. Tour operators can arrange luggage-handling where required. Porters are available for heavy luggage.

On the Road
The crossing point into China is via the Barrier Gate (Portas de Cerco) and buses run frequently to and from this point. I would not recommend doing it by rental car. Stick to tours or take the bus.

Getting Around In Macau
Everyone gets around in Macau on the roads where traffic drives on the left. There are two bridges: one to Taipa Island, and a new bridge carrying a 4-lane highway from the international airport to the Macau-China border at Zhuhai. 

Rental Car - Rental cars are available through several agencies. Chauffeur-driven limousines are also available. An International Driving Permit is required for car rental. Taxi - Most taxis are black with a cream-colored top, but some are all-yellow. The fare is MOP10 for the first 1500m traveled. The fare for each subsequent 220m is MOP1. From the airport, a surcharge of MOP5 is added and each item of luggage is MOP3.

Rickshaws and Pedicabs - Rickshaws and pedicabs (bicycles with a 2-seater section at the back) are also available for hire. The ferry terminal and the Hotel Lisboa are the two main pickup locations. Prices should be agreed in advance. And, while it may see a great way to see the city, It is worth remembering that many of the attractions in Macau are located on hilltops, making it difficult (and usually impossible) for even the strongest of drivers.

The Macau Peninsula is the northernmost region and it connects to the Chinese mainland. This is the center of most tourist activity and it is densely crowded. Taipa is an island to the south of the peninsula. It is a major residential center that is accessible by three bridges. It is also the location of Macau's International Airport. Louwan is an island further to the south. It is considerably less developed than the other regions and the main attractions here afre the two beaches, several hiking trails and a resort. It is also the location of Macau's only golf course. Cotai might be considered a fourth region. It is an area of reclaimed land joining Taipa and Coloane, making them essentially into a single island.

If you have information you believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

Some Things To See And Do In Macau
Shopping
Night Life
Racing
Gambling and Wagering
Participation Sports


Racing
Racing takes place at the Canidrome on Avenida General Castelo Branco on Monday, Thursday, weekends and some public holidays. The Candidrome is the only greyhound racing stadium in Asia and its excellent facilities include two grand stands, several private boxes and a VIP lounge. Over 300 dogs take part in races on each racing day. 

The atmosphere here is, unlike in most western casinos, pretty unglamorous with the emphasis being concentrated on serious betters and betting. There is a minimum bet, currently 50 patacas on all games.

Participation Sports
There are plenty of other ways to enjoy yourself here with participation sports. There is an 18-hole golf course at the Macau Golf and Country Club, Colôane. 

Go-karting is available on Taipa Island. 

Swimming pools are found in major hotels and public pools are available in Macau, Colôane Island and Taipa. The best beach in the territory is at Hac Sa on Colôane. Despite the black color of its sand, it has good facilities, including showers, toilets and good restaurants nearby. 

A bowling center and ice rink is available at Future Bright Amusement Center. 

Squash courts are available at the Oriental Macau and Royal hotels, as well as the Westin Resort. Courts and equipment for badminton and tennis are available for hire.

Shopping
Macau's most popular buys are jewelry (particularly gold and jade), Chinese antiques, porcelain, pottery, electronic gadgetry, cameras, watches and beading work. They are available at duty-free prices because Macau is a free port and no sales tax is charged. Other popular buys are Chinese herbs and medicines, dried seafood (such as sharks' fins), abalone, Chinese and Macau pastries, and locally-made knitwear sold at stalls. When purchasing antiques, gold and jewelry, it is advisable to patronize shops recommended by the Goldsmiths' and Jewelers' Association and the Macau Government Tourist Office. A warranty and a receipt should be asked for when buying jewelry, gold, cameras, watches and electrical goods.

Bargaining is expected on many items although most shops will have the same minimum price. When bargaining, begin at a price lower than you expect to pay and then work up to a price where you feel comfortable. If you cannot reach an agreement, begin to walk away. I have found that this often with bring the price down a little more.

The main shopping area is located along the Avenida do Infante D Henrique and Avenida Almeida Ribeiro, São Domingos Market, Rua de Palha, Rua do Campo and Rua Pedro Nolasco da Silva. Antiques and unique gifts may be found in Macau's flea market in the lanes around Rua das Estalagens (near St Paul's Ruins). There is an Artisan's Fair every Saturday evening in Santo Agostinho Square. 

You can also head across the Chinese border to Zhuhai, where the first floor of the Gongbei market is well known for antiques, ceramics and fabrics. Software is also a good buy in Zhuhai.

The shopping hours are normally 1000-2000 for the whole week. Some shops may close on the first of every month.

Nightlife
Although most of the nightlife is centered on the hotels, many of which have nightclubs with cabaret, Portuguese folk dancing, lively dance bands, discotheques, international menus and bars, you are welcome to join the many locals who tend to relax in the evening in some of the many lively restaurants.

In summer there are several open-air esplanadas serving soft drinks.  

Gambling is a big attraction for visitors to Macau and the casinos are open 24 hours, providing famous entertainers, baccarat, blackjack, roulette and Chinese games like fantan and dai-siu (big and small). 

Some Selected Special Events
The Macau Government Tourist Office (www.macautourism.gov.mo) can supply details of the many festivals celebrated in Macau. Many of these festivals are also official public holidays. Here are just some of the events that may be taking place (listed by month).
February
Procession of the Passion of our Lord, The Good Jesus
Feast of the God Toutei
March
Macau Arts Festival
May
Feast of the Bathing of Lord Buddha
Macau Open Golf Tournament
Procession of Our Lady Fatima
June
Men's World Table Tennis Championships
Macau International Dragon Boat Races
July
Feast of Kuan Tai
Feast of Na Cha
August
FIVB's World Grand Prix
Feast of the Maidens.
September
Mid-Autumn Festival
International Fireworks Festival
International Triathlon Championship of Macau
October
Festival of Ancestors
International Music Festival
National Day's Fun Run
November
Macau Squash Open
Macau Grand Prix
December
International Hockey Tournament
Macau International Marathon and Half Marathon
South China Sea Cycling Tour.

Again, contact the Macau Government Tourist Office (www.macautourism.gov.mo) for complete current details and dates of all festivals.

Some Suggestions For Accommodations In Macau
There are various types of accommodation throughout Macau ranging from first-class to economy-class hotels, inns, villa-apartments, and older colonial hotels. At weekends the hotels, villas and inns are usually full, so it is wise to make a reservation.

There are currently about 9000 hotel rooms in Macau. Most hotels are air-conditioned and rooms have private baths. A 10% service charge is added to hotel bills plus a 5% government tax. A 10% service charge will be added to most hotel and restaurant bills, but a small tip should also be left. 

For accommodations in Macau, click on Hotels in Macau 

Local Macau food is spicy, a unique combination of Chinese and Portuguese cooking methods with influences of Indian and African spices. Dishes include bacalhau (cod served baked, grilled, stewed or boiled), caldo verde and sopa a alentejana (rich soups with vegetables, meat and olive oil), 'African chicken' (grilled with hot spices), galinha a portuguesa (chicken baked with potatoes, onions, eggs and saffron - the appearance of curry without the spice), minche (minced meat with fried potato and onion), Macau sole (fried fish is usually served with salad) and feijoados (from Brazil, stews of kidney beans, pork, potatoes, cabbage and spicy sausage). The specialty of dim sum (Chinese savory snacks steamed and served in bamboo baskets on trolleys) includes cha siu bao (steamed pork dumplings), har gau (steamed shrimp dumplings) and shui mai (steamed and minced pork with shrimp).

Alcohol is easily obtainable. There are no licensing laws. All restaurants offer a variety of Portuguese red and white wines and sparkling vinho verde, as well as port and brandy, all at low prices.

Tap water is generally regarded as safe, but bottled water may be advisable for the first few days. Milk is pasteurized, but avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

A 10% service charge will be added to most hotel and restaurant bills, but a small tip should also be left.

Some Favorites In Macau
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you believe I should add to this section of Getting Away, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

Some Interesting Links For Macau

Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center where you can find out how to learn another language, or where to purchase books, dictionaries, electronic translators, software and more. Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.