Sunday, March 28, 2010

What Happens in Macau...

An hour on the high-speed ferry and another hour in line going through immigration (wholly crap what a bad set up!) gets you to Macau, China's other Special Administrative Region (SAR).


Settled in 1557 by the Portuguese, Macau was the first European colony on China's shore and remained under Portugal's control until the handover back to China in 1999. It's well known for its distinct, quaint European flavor, which stands in stark contrast to its other big claim to fame: its casinos. Today, Macau even tops Las Vegas and is the world's No. 1 gambling destination. The photos below from my trip today give you a sense of the more charming side of Macau. 


St. Paul's facade, the best-known landmark in Macau



The view from St. Paul's looking down


The Santa Casa da Misericordia church on Leal Senado Square



Now this is a crowded street. Too long here would've given me a panic attack!



The contrasts. To the left is Grand Lisboa Hotel, which was modeled after a lotus root. To the right, the edge of St. Peter's facade


Locals in Camoes Garden






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