Macau:  Asia's Surprising Monte Carlo

Thanks to the Portuguese government, gambling in the island of Macau has been considered legal since the mid-1800s.  Back in its early years, Macau gambling was a monopoly granted solely to the Tai Xing Co. in the late 1930s but the full potential of the industry was realized only after it was turned over to the STDM or Sociedade de Turismo Diversoes de Macau.  These days, the operating concessions are divided among several firms and Macau, the Asian Las Vegas, was born.

Why you should visit

Gambling is easily the main vein that pumps the Macau economy, which makes it a highly groomed industry in the island.  But as a tourist, you're bound to find more fellow tourists in the casinos than locals, who prefer to place bets on horse and greyhound racing, lotteries and sports.  The casinos remain Macau's biggest attractions and any trip to this island is worth a visit to one of its famed gambling dens.

Generally, there are three gambling categories in Macau – the casinos, the horse races and the greyhound races.  Casinos don’t require entry fees and are open 24 hours.  While the casinos in Macau have been the haven of many international gamblers and players and the quality of the service and facilities is tops, the ante has been upped once again when the Macau Sands Casino began operation.

Macau Sands is a $3 billion marvel of casino-cum-entertainment, giving more meaning to the words 'playing in Macau'.  It raked in $40 million US during its first month alone.  And it's not the only place that will astonish you about this island.  Casino Lisboa is an experienced casino in Macau and it's probably the best known in the whole of Asia.  You'll love that it is unabashedly showy about its personality and that the garish exterior of the building is just a taste of things to come. 

Macau Sands and Casino Lisboa are just two of the dozens of casinos you can check out in Macau and when you do, you can be sure that the operators know exactly how to keep you entertained.  The brisk business these casinos are experiencing are proof enough that they are flourishing on the island and there's plenty more to expect.  A reclamation area, measuring 100,000 sq.m. on the Cotai strip will be the location for about 25 casinos and resorts, including the much-awaited Venetian Macau, giving you more reasons to come and play.

A surprising fact you should know:  Don’t underestimate Macau's island status.  It rakes in more money than Las Vegas, with each table in the casinos earning about 10 times as those in Nevada.  That's how much the gamblers love to play in Macau.

Colonial and Oriental

Macau is the product of the marriage of Portugal and China, so it's not unusual to find Mediterranean influences mixed with the charm and mystery of the Chinese heritage.  As a tourist destination, Macau is a great adventure escape, especially if you like the vibe of Hong Kong but dislike the crowded malls and hot spots.  Macau is as entertaining but you'll find it more laid-back and relaxed.

If there are things that can draw you away from the tables, it's Macau's famed architecture, its ancient temples and 400-year-old baroque-style churches.  Once you step out of the hotels and walk on Macau's famous streets, you'll find the Mediterranean influence apparent on its cobblestone walks. 

Try Mediterranean-style cuisine in one of the cafes or give in to your adventurous spirit and try the more exotic Chinese delicacies.  Want to know if you'll have better luck at the tables in the casinos?  Consult one of the many palm readers that ply their trades on the sidewalks and they'll tell you.  You can also shop for souvenirs and knick-knacks on the many shops in the island's commercial center.

Or get away from the glamour and glitz of Macau and head for Coloane, an island found in the countryside.  It's a trip worth going to if you want respite from the bright lights and prefer to commune with nature.  Coloane teems with verdant wildlife and is the perfect place to head off to for a swim, to relax, have a picnic or just simply enjoy the unique charm that this other face of Macau offers.

Macau is more than just a little spot of China.  It's an exciting and vibrant city that continues to evolve over the years.  With Chinese history that goes back 3,000 years and Portuguese influence that made its mark for 400 years, Macau will draw you in, invite you and then surprise you.