Macau’s other tourism come-ons

Macau is Asia’s gambling destination but there are other reasons why people may want to go.

Casinos and shopping malls are among the biggest come-ons of Macau that these establishments do not need any promotion. But Macau is also synonymous with family entertainment, a spectacular water show and a panda sanctuary to delight young visitors, among others.

The Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) recently invited journalists representing Philippine digital media to a familiarization tour of a variety of attractions. (The Sun.Star website at www.sunstar.com.ph was among those invited.)

What strikes any first-time visitor to Macau is the array of magnificent, gold-colored and multi-story hotels and casinos.

The Galaxy Macau is an example of a spectacular property that features three hotel brands, namely, Banyan Tree Macau, Hotel Okura Macau and the Galaxy Hotel. What makes the property unique is its Skytop Wave Pool, with waves over 1.5 meters in height, covering 4,000 square meters and featuring a 350-ton white sand beach of more than 2,000 square meters.

Other notable properties are the City of Dreams, an integrated entertainment resort that brings together the brands of Crown, Grand Hyatt, Hard Rock and Dragone; MGM Macau hotel resort at the gaming district; and the Venetian Macao resort-hotel that was recently named “The Best Meetings and Conventions Hotel in Macau” by the 5th Annual TTG China Travel Awards 2012.

Outside of the casinos, the attractions of Macau include:

Senado Square
This area is known not only for shopping but also for culture and history. Senado Square has been the center of Macau, with buildings dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. It reflects the Portuguese influence on Macau and is a Unesco World Heritage Site for its special cultural significance. It also hosts offices of the Macau Business Tourism Centre.

A-Ma Temple
A visit to Macau would not be complete without a stop at its oldest temple and its longest surviving building.

Macau Tower
A favorite of thrill-seekers. The tower has the world’s highest commercial bungy jump listed under the Guinness World Records. The bungy jump, sky jump, skywalk and mast climb are carried out under the supervision of experienced professionals.

The House of Dancing Water
Macau tourism stakeholders dubbed The House of Dancing Water show as what firmly planted Macau on the world map of entertainment. The spectacular water-based show is a world-class entertainment extravaganza at the City of Dreams.

Giant Panda Pavilion
The pavilion was designed to mimic the natural habitat of pandas. With shrubs, trees and streams, the pavilion is home to giant pandas Hoi Hoi and Sam Sam, a gift from the Chinese central government.

These attractions make Macau a destination for those seeking wholesome and even educational experiences. (Nini Cabaero/Sunnex)