A cultural Janus, a gambling mecca, an eventful city
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Macao is the first and last European outpost in Asia. The Portuguese ruled over 450 years, which ceased in 1999. Because of its unique history, a number of properties were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2005. Macao celebrates a variety of festivals and events throughout the year to reflect its colonial and cultural roots, such as Catholic processions and Chinese Taoist worshiping ceremonies, food festival and fireworks display contests, marathons, and the Macau Grand Prix which has run for over 60 years! Macao is also famous for its extravagant resorts, casinos and nightlife. Macao makes about 7 times more gaming revenues than the whole Las Vegas strip on its gaming tables according to Bloomberg Businessweek. It's truly a dynamic city like no other.
Click here for more Macao info provided by the local tourist board, Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO).
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Arriving into MacaoVisitors can get into Macao by land, sea or air. The majority of international arrivals come through the local international airport or via Hong Kong International Airport, which is an hour's ferry ride away. For details about getting into Macao, please click here.
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WeatherWeather in September is still hot and humid, with daily average highs of 30C.
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Conference hotel
Hotel Sintra is located minutes away from major tourist, heritage, shopping, dining and relaxation spots around Macao and is short walk away from the city centre. There will be complimentary shuttle services to the conference venue each morning. To find out more about the conference hotel and arrangements, please click here. However, if you opt to stay at other hotels, feel free to browse the listing by the tourist board here.
Getting around
Almost everywhere in Macao is easily accessible on foot though there are a number of roads and small alleyways that interconnect each other. The only issue you will need to be concerned about is the hustle and bustle of the local life which might distract you from where you are going (and what you are doing!). Some taxi cards/directions are available to help you 'ask a friend' should you need to. Have fun!
From Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal to IFT Google Map directions: https://goo.gl/maps/yUP4W From Conference Hotel to IFT Google Map directions: coming soon |
Taxi cards
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Travel tips
Most visitors conclude Macao as a lovely place but like most Asian destinations, there are a few things many find peculiar about Macao. For travel tips, visa information and some frequently wondered aspects of Macao, please click here.
Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO)MGTO is the local tourist board and its website provides a wealth of information for tourists. The video on the right is a promotional video produced by MGTO that highlights some of Macao's best bits.
To visit MGTO's website, please click here. |
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