GETTING THERE
HOP TO MACAU
At present the easiest way to access Macau is by turbo-jet ferry from Hong Kong, though there’s much anticipation about the bridge due to open that will connect Macau with Hong Kong.
The Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge will actually be a series of bridges and tunnels that will connect Hong Kong, Macau and Zhuhai, the three major cities on the Pearl River Delta in China.
It might be called the “Vegas of Asia”, but away from the casinos Macau has a period charm to be found in its historic squares, sleepy outlying islands and friendly Portuguese restaurants
The ruined St Paul’s church, a leading Macau landmark, is close t o Chinese temples, and its restored façade includes Chinese dragons as well as Christian saints.
The historic centre, a Unesco World Heritage A vintage tram, known locally as a Ding Dong site, is said to be the most complete range of European architecture standing on Chinese soil.
The A-Ma temple, where people hang offerings, is dedicated to the goddess of sea farers from which the name Macau is derived. At the Macau peninsula, you will find the main squares and the frantic entertainment and c a s i n o s , b u t a l s o the quiet islands of Taipa and Coloane.
Isolated from the mainland, sleepy Coloane is home to the tiny church of St Francis, painted canary yellow, and said to house the world’s only painting of the Madonna and Child to be depicted with Chinese features.
Down the road the Macau Giant PACKAGE Virgin Atlantic (0844 2092770, www.virgin-atlantic.com) flies daily to Hong Kong from London Heathrow, from £533 per person, including taxes.