Monday, March 7, 2016

Hotel Hopping In Macau

Known as the Las Vegas in Asia, Macau is full of luxurious hotels and lavish casinos. Since we were traveling from Hong Kong, we opted for the easiest way going to Macau by taking the ferry ride.


So, we took the Taipa route through Cotai Water Jet. The travel time was just a quick 60 minutes.


What’s more exciting here in Macau is you get to have a free shuttle ride to and from the nearby hotels. So, take advantage!


Here’s a glimpse of the most famous hotels in Cotai Strip.


1. Galaxy Hotel Macau
The hotel’s boasts its lobby that features Fortune Diamond and Wishing Crystals. When you get near the crystals, it somehow senses your movement and sends a response of good luck and fortune.  It is totally amazing!


Outside Galaxy Macau


Galaxy Macau

Wishing Crystals



2. Wynn Macau
This luxury hotel presents a Performance Lake just outside and holds a short water fountain show, synchronized with background music for about 3 minutes. The show is repeated every 15 minutes, though. Too bad we were during daytime so, there was no light effects.


Outside Wynn Macau

Performance Lake Wynn Macau



3. MGM Macau
A high rise resort with a grand, MGM also holds events with luxury and style.
MGM Macau




4. Grand Lisboa Macau
One of the first 5-star hotels in Macau, Grand Lisboa still stands delightly even with the modern hotels around the area.


Grand Lisboa Macau



5. The Venetian Macau
This Venice-themed luxury hotel and casino is superb. It houses an indoor arena, Cotai Arena, which is the usual venue for boxing, tennis, concerts, and awards shows. And, don’t miss the gondola rides!


Outside The Venetian Macau

Outside Cotai Arena

The Gondola Ride



6.  City of Dreams Macau
Vquarium (virtual aquarium) is its famous free attraction. CIty of Dreams is the home of three hotels: Crown Towers, Hard Rock Hotel and Grand Hyatt Macau.
Crown Towers, Hard Rock Hotel and Grand Hyatt Macau

City of Dreams Macau

On The Way To City of Dreams Macau 




7. Sands Cotai Central
Another hotel owned by Las Vegas Sands, this hotel competes with the newest nearby hotels.

Sands Cotai Central


10 Things To Do In Hong Kong

This was our trip to Hong Kong last year 2015 to celebrate Chinese New Year.
Want to travel in Hong Kong? Join me in my journey as I take you to the significant places and events in Hong Kong that I’ve been and you should too.
  1. Ride the Big Bus or Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus
Availing the bus tour allows you to have a glimpse around the city and its significant tourist spots. A TV is equipped in the bus and explains each of your stopovers. For best viewing, I suggest you to take the front seat of the upper deck.
  1. Know the artists at the Avenue of Stars
Similar to Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, the Avenue features all famous celebrities who made it big in the film industry not only locally but internationally. See Bruce Lee’s sculpture and don’t forget to take photos of your favorite artist. Of course, I couldn’t miss Jacky Chan!
  1. Enjoy the Symphony of Lights
Every night at 8pm, the buildings from the Central District collectively light up and make a creative laser and light show synchronized with a lovely music. I had the chance to witness the show which was then followed by the great fireworks display as a celebration for the Chinese New Year.



  1. Watch the Pulse 3D Light Show and the Clock Tower
What’s spectacular about the 3D show is its interactive art display and synchronization with audiovisual effects. The Clock Tower, the only remaining reminder of the Kowloon-Canton Railway, is part of the show which adds more life to the already colorful scene.


  1. Walk your way up to the Big Buddha
The 268 steps you need to take will all be worth it once you reach the top. You can see the Tian Tan Buddha, made of pure bronze, up close. It literally is big!


  1. Meet and greet with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland
Welcome to the happiest place on Earth! Indeed, this place holds true to its mission: bringing happiness to everyone, regardless of age, who sets foot at Disneyland. Enjoy various themes,shows, rides, and food.


  1. Ride the famous peak tram.
To reach Victoria Peak, take the peak tram ride and enjoy the scenes outside. Upon reaching the Peak Tower, stroll around and see Hong Kong’s city view. For a best night viewing, go to the Sky Terrace (with an additional cost). We did not try this since it was very hazy.


  1. Wander around various gardens and parks.
Get in touch with nature at Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. Take a pose at the Garden Fountain. Head on to Tamar Park and breathe fresh air.


  1. Say “Hi” to the Pandas at Ocean Park.
Panda fans would definitely fall in love with the place and see pandas right before their eyes. The Giant Aquarium is also a must-visit. The Hair Raiser ride is considered favorite among the adventurous type.


  1. Take the ferry ride to Macau.
Cross to the “Las Vegas of Asia” and hop on to the top hotels in Macau. Free shuttle rides are available. The Venetian is not to be missed. Try the gondola ride.