Macau

 Macau

 

            The cultural influence of Portuguese life threaded through a Chinese framework has produced a unique landscape

            in Macau, fused with contrast and complexity. Here Baroque churches and colonial mansions appear from the

            cobbled pavements interspersed with plazas and cafes. Visitors are enticed here by the lure of gambling and the

            glitz of its promise. Macau's attractions are exemplified in its architectural heritage. St Paul's Cathedral is one such

            legacy that dates back to the early 17th century. It is an Italian - designed building perched on a hilltop that is

            most spectacular when illuminated against a night sky. The vantage point from the Fortaleza de Monte is a good

            place to reflect on the defensive role it played against Dutch assault in 1622 alongside an exploration of the

            museum and meteorological observatory. The classic Chinese temple of A - Ma rests at the base of Penha Hill. Its

            name derives from Tin Hau, Queen of Heaven, or the Honoured Mother. Myth has it that a poor girl saved the

            fishing vessel, on which she was travelling, from the ravages of a storm. In tribute to her this temple was built

            and is a place of pilgrimage for Macau's fishing community. Another temple dedicated to the power of female

            intervention is the Kun Iam Temple, built in honour of the Goddess of Mercy, located in the northern reaches of

            the peninsula. It was here in 1844 that the first trade and friendship treaty between USA and China was signed.

            Macau is 37 miles (60km) west of Hong Kong; ferries take around an hour to get there and leave every fifteen

            minutes.

            Transport: Macau can be reached via a variety of ferries that dock at either the Hong Kong- Macau Ferry Terminal

            or the China Ferry Terminal in Hong Kong. Credit card bookings can be made by calling 2859 6596