Ruins of St. Paul's

(Image credit: http://www.uq.edu.au/)

#1 A Brief History

Macau was colonised by the Portuguese from the 16^th century, who ruled the city for over 400 years before it was handed back to China on 20^th December 1999, making it the last European colony. The Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) is a part of China’s territory.

#2 Population

As of 2013, the population in Macau stands at 624,000 with about 90% ethnic Chinese from different provinces. The remaining includes Portuguese and other regions. Due to limited land area, Macau has a population density of 18,636, the highest of any country or territory in the world.

#3 Area

Macau covers 30.3 sq.km.

Macau Tower

(Image credit: http://cina.panduanwisata.id/) 

#4 Geography

Macau comprises of the Macau Peninsula (connected to Mainland China), the islands of Taipa and Coloane, and the reclaimed area COTAI. The bridges connect Macau to Taipa with the distance of 2.5km, 4.5km and 2.2km respectively.

#5 Language

Portuguese and Cantonese are the official languages of Macau but the latter is most commonly used in the territory. English and mandarin are also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

#6 Time Zone

MST/UTC +8

Night Life in Macau

(Image credit: http://www.buffetinmacao.com/)

#7 Currency

Macau’s unit of currency is Macau Pataca (MOP). If it’s a challenge to find MOP, Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is also acceptable in Macau. Do check the current currency exchange rates with our 12FLY currency converter.

#8 Visa 

Malaysians don’t require visas to enter Macau (for a stay up to 30 days). As for others, do check on 12FLY Tourist Visa website for more information. 

#9 Getting There

AirAsia flies 17 times weekly to Macau from Kuala Lumpur. You can also opt to fly to Hong Kong and take a ferry to Macau directly from the airport – this allows you to bypass Hong Kong customs and immigration.  Check here for flight ticket comparison.

#10 Tipping

Macau generally doesn’t practise tipping. Some places impose 10% service charge and 5% Government tax, including bars and restaurants.

#11 Dialing Code

Macau’s international dialling code is +853

Macau Overview

(Image credit: http://www.desktopwallpapers4.me/)

#12 Getting Around

Most of Macau’s tourist attractions are relatively close to each other, it’s best to explore the place on foot. Buses run throughout the city and the island. They are efficient and affordable. Also, many larger hotels provide complimentary shuttle buses to and from Macau Ferry Terminal and Barrier Gate (to Zhuhai).

#13 Best Time to Visit 

Macau has a fairly warm tropical climate. The best  time to visit would be around October to December as it’s coolest (~18degree) and it’s also a low rainfall season.

Check out affordable packages for Macau here!