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■ Population: 508,000
■ Currency: The Pataca (MOP); MOP8 = USD1
■ Country and city code: +853
■ Tourist info: Macau Government Tourist Office, Alameda Dr Carlos d’Assumpcao, nos 335-341, Edificio “Hot Line”, 12o andar, Macau
■ tel: +853 315 566/333 000
■ email: mgto@macautourism.gov.mo
■ website: www.macautourism.gov.mo
FUN FACT
Although Macau is tiny – 1/40th the size of Hong Kong – it will be home to 30 casinos by 2008.
Monte Fort (Fortaleza do Monte)
This fort was built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. Its canons were only fired once, during an invasion by the Dutch back in 1622, and have remained dormant ever since. It is also home to the Macau Museum. The fort is open from 7am to 6pm daily. Admission is free.
Rua da Felicidade (Street of Happiness)
Once Macau’s notorious red-light district, the Street of Happiness now brings joy to travellers in a different way. Its red-shuttered terraces frame street vendors selling local delicacies like egg tarts, cakes and cured meats.
Asian Artifacts (9 Rua dos Negociantes, tel: +853 881022)
Macau is renowned as an antique shoppers paradise, with rare and exciting finds to be discovered in the streets surrounding the Rua da Sao Paolo. This particular shop has a good reputation and shows before and after photos of its restored pieces, so you can get a good sense of its quality.
Restaurante Fernando (9 Praia de Hac Sa, Coloane, tel: +853 882531)
When out on the islands, enjoy some time out from a busy sightseeing schedule and taste the super-fresh seafood Fernando is famous for. Mains are priced from MOP50 (SGD9.10) to MOP150 (SGD27.50). $
Litoral (261A Rua do Almirante Sergio, tel: +853 967878)
Macau has all kind of food options, but this little place is a great option for those keen to try traditional Macanese cuisine. Must-tries include the duck and spicy prawn dishes. Mains vary from MOP60 (SGD11) to MOP120 (SGD22). $
Basement (69 Avenida de Sidonio Pais, tel: +853 667174)
If casinos aren’t your thing, there are a growing number of alternatives for night-time entertainment, including this funky lounge bar. The music is great, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and best of all, it is open until 4am on the weekends.
Pousada de Mong Ha (Rua de Mong Ha)
A traditional little Portuguese inn run by tourism students who speak very good English, it offers the best value for money, with single rooms from MOP400 (SGD73.30). Rates are more expensive for weekend stays, ranging from MOP500 (SGD91.60) to MOP1,000 (SGD183.20). $
BY CASEY WHALE
* FOR EXCLUSIVE DEALS, BOOK HOTELS AT www.TIGERAIRWAYS.COM
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