Taipa, Macau

On the southeastern coast of China – 60 kilometers (37 miles) west of Hong Kong – Macau was initially settled by Chinese farmers and fishermen. In 1550, when Portuguese merchants reached Macau, the city became the first European colony in Asia, creating a one-of-a-kind cultural mix. In 1999, Macau reverted to Chinese rule as a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.

Although only 29.5 square kilometers (11 square miles) in size – with a population of some 558,100 people – Macau offers plentiful attractions, activities and entertainment for visitors. A unique fusion of East and West, the Historic Centre of Macau is a designated World Heritage Site, with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful Chinese shops, incense-filled temples and distinctive colonial Macanese architecture.

In contrast to its historic core, the Cotai Strip – which links the islands of Taipa and Coloane – is developing into a fast-paced gaming destination with an atmosphere akin to the Las Vegas Strip. The area features 34 world-class casinos and themed hotels, providing abundant choices for food, entertainment, shopping and conventions.

Visit Macau Government Tourist Office

The main language is Cantonese; Portuguese, Mandarin and English are also spoken.