Macao the Las Vegas of Asia

 

Macao, a Special Administrative Region of China, is often referred to as the "Las Vegas of Asia" due to its numerous casinos and vibrant nightlife. However, the city has much more to offer beyond its glitzy facade. With a rich history and cultural heritage, Macao is a unique blend of Portuguese, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences.

For locals like Vivian Lai, a second-generation Macao resident, the city is more than just a gambling hub. "I only go to casinos once a year, on Chinese New Year," she says. "The tradition of gambling is said to bring good luck for the year to come, whether you win or lose." While casinos may be a significant part of Macao's economy, they are not the only defining feature of the city.

Macao's history dates back to the 16th century when it was a Portuguese colony. The city's colonial past is still evident in its architecture, cuisine, and language. The Ruins of St. Paul's, a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction, is a testament to Macao's rich history.

Despite its small size, Macao has a lot to offer visitors. The city is densely packed and easy to navigate on foot, with many beautiful museums, neighborhoods, and cultural attractions to explore. Marina Fernandes, an eighth-generation Macanese, is passionate about preserving and highlighting native Macanese culture. She works at the Associação dos Macaense (Macanese Association) and has opened a canteen to share traditional Macanese dishes like minchi (ground meat stir-fried with potatoes and soy sauce) with the public.

Ricardo Balocas, a Lisbon native who moved to Macao in 2013, has held various jobs in the city, including management roles at the Macao International Airport and St. Joseph's University. He estimates that about half of Macao's expat Portuguese population left during the pandemic, but he remains committed to keeping the city's Portuguese heritage alive. "This neighborhood has the lamps in the street exactly the same as in Lisbon," he says. "So if you walk around, you almost feel that you are in Lisbon."

Balocas also acknowledges the importance of casinos in Macao's economy but encourages visitors to explore beyond them. "What I want people to explore when they come to Macao, it's to get out from the casinos, honestly," he says. "There is a lot to explore. We have beautiful museums, beautiful neighborhoods." He suggests starting at the Macao Tower observation deck to get a sense of the city's compact layout and then exploring the alleys and side streets to discover hidden gems.

In recent years, Macao has made efforts to reimagine its tourism industry and promote its cultural attractions. The government has launched initiatives to encourage visitors to explore the city's historic neighborhoods and support local businesses. While casinos may still be a significant part of Macao's identity, the city has much more to offer visitors who are willing to look beyond the glitz and glamour.

In conclusion, Macao is a city with a rich history, cultural heritage, and unique blend of influences. While casinos may be a significant part of its economy, they are not the only defining feature of the city. Visitors who take the time to explore beyond the casinos will discover a vibrant city with much to offer, from its beautiful museums and neighborhoods to its traditional cuisine and cultural attractions. As Balocas says, "Don't just explore the center, explore the alleys."