Macau is a beautiful city with a long history. I lived there for 4 years. I would like to talk something about Macau's geography, attractions, entertainment, food, and climate.

Macau is located in the southeast of China. It has a total area of approximately 21 square kilometers, Macau can be divided into three main areas: the Macau peninsula, Taipa Island, and Coloane Island. With a population of about 450,000 inhabitants, approximately 70% are Chinese nationals and 28% are Portuguese passport holders. Only 2% are real Portuguese. The official languages are Chinese and Portuguese, but English is widely used in trade and tourism.

Macau is a famous scenic city which attracts a mass of tourists with its unique style every year. Macau's most famous monument is the remains of the St. Paul's church. This Spanish-style church was destroyed in a fire in 1885. Only the front standing was left behind. It has been a symbol of Macau. However, A-Ma Temple is the oldest Chinese temple in Macau with a beautiful legend. Even The name of Macau comes from the name of A-Ma temple. Leal Senado Square is one of the most spectacular sites in Macau. It is located in the heart of the city's shopping area. The square is perfect for pedestrians because vehicles are not allowed to enter the square. Surrounding a central circular fountain, the ground of the square is full covered with small Portuguese tiles. It looks like a wave-patterned mosaic which creates a most peaceful atmosphere. The Hac Sa Beach is Macau's largest and most popular beach. It is famous for its black sand. On a clear day, you can spy some of Hong Kong's southern islands from the beach.

Tourists can enjoy various amusements in Macau. Macau boasts ten casinos - all of which stay open 24 hours a day. If you are over 18 years old, you can try your luck at the jackpot machines (known as "hungry tigers" to the locals) or play other games of chance like baccarat, roulette, keno and blackjack. The largest casino in Macau is the three-storey complex at Hotel Lisboa. During the Horse Racing season (usually in summer), race meetings are held every weekend at the Macau Jockey Club on Taipa Island. Greyhound Racing is another particular gambling in Macau. Some dogs run around an oval racing track while excited people place bets on the winners. Macau Grand Prix, held on November, is perhaps Macau's biggest event of the year. This two-day racing takes place along a 6km route on the streets of the city and has two main categories: one for Formula 3 cars, and the other for motorcycles. There are also at lease five museums in Macau. These museums have different themes. The history, culture, and traditions of Macau are revealed at these wonderful museums.

The cuisine of Macau is a potent mix of Portuguese and Chinese food. This creates dishes that you really shouldn't miss. Chicken baked with peppers and chillies and 'Feijoadas', a stew made of beans, pork, potatoes, cabbage, and spicy sausages, are few examples. Many excellent Portuguese wines are available to complete a perfect meal. Besides these, You can also enjoy delicious traditional Chinese foods and pure Portuguese foods in Macau.

The weather in Macau is normally hot, with an annual average temperature of 20 degrees centigrade. With values ranging from 70 to 95%, humidity is rather high during most of the year. Autumn is the finest season of the year, with sunny days, mild temperature and little humidity. Winter is cold, but you can expect to have some periods of clear skies as well.

Although Macau is a very small city, it still has a fascination for me. I like its quiet, beauty, and leisure very much. I am looking for visiting it again.

May 15, 2000