Macau is a really interesting place. This city, located on China’s coast, was once a Portuguese colony and is now the biggest gambling city in the world. It is believed to have a gambling revenue double that of Las Vegas! 

Macau is located just a boat ride away from Hong Kong, so you can stay here or visit for day trips from Hong Kong if you prefer. 

Macau is separated into two main parts:

North (Macau Peninsula)
This is the northern part of the city, which is home to some small remnants of Portuguese history. This is also the more ‘typical’ and picturesque part of the city, in my opinion. 

South (Taipa, Coloane and Cotai)
The southern part of the city does have an old town; however, it is dominated by huge casinos on a scale which is mind-blowing. I am not much of a city person or gambler myself, but even I found it fascinating to walk the streets and see the inside of a few of the casinos. The scale and expense required to create this part of the city is impressive. Taipa and Coloane were once separate islands; however, Cotai is land which was reclaimed from the sea in 2005 and which now joins the land together and forms another district. It is also largely Cotai, which is famous for its mega casinos. 

You can get buses easily from the north of Macau (the Macau Peninsula) to the south (Taipa, Coloane and Cotai) on buses along the bridges connecting the parts of the city. There are also regular boats from the north and south to Hong Kong. 

The Portuguese governed Macau for 442 years. It was returned to China in 1999; however, like Hong Kong, it retains some degree of autonomy in comparison to the rest of China.  

The Language
Many of the locals speak Cantonese. Signs are present in Portuguese and English, although I am not sure how many of the locals still speak Portuguese. 

Economy and Safety
The city is very safe and easy to navigate. As with all cities, however, keep your wits about you; it is generally very safe. 

Travel Ease
Macau is a major city with public transport being convenient and well-maintained. 

The Beaches
Although Macau does have some beaches, it is not known for its beaches; they are not overly appealing places to swim and relax. If you do want time at a beach, I would advise that you take a ferry to Hong Kong and see the beaches there. This can be done as a day trip. 

The People
I found the people in Macau to be welcoming, nice and friendly. 

History
The Portuguese governed Macau from 1557 to 1999, when it was returned to China, marking an end to 442 years of Portuguese rule. Macau, like Hong Kong, retains some elements of autonomy compared with the rest of China. You can still see some historical Portuguese ruins and buildings. Street signs are also displayed in Portuguese.