Sightseeing Macau

Posted on 12/30/2009

I had no idea what to expect of Macau. I envisioned casinos (of course). Chinese food (of course). But what an amazing thing to see this historic former Portugese colony, now a major tourist and gambling center. I really enjoyed my 3 days in this special administrative region sightseeing the historic UNESCO World Heritage sites, sampling local Chinese and Portugese (Macanese) food, and of course touring the casinos of which the Venetian takes the cake! more...


The Venetian Hotel and Casino

Posted on 12/29/2009

From their website: "The Venetian® Macao-Resort-Hotel will play a crucial role in making Macao one of Asia's most exciting entertainment destinations and preeminent convention and exhibition venues. Large enough to hold ninety Boeing 747 jumbo jets, nowhere else in Asia will you find such a rare combination of facilities, attractions and amenities than at this 3,000 suite flagship property." more...



Taipa Island

Posted on 12/28/2009

The trip started at 6 o'clock afternoon and was supposed to be a scenic, relaxing journey (in my mind's eye that is!). In reality, the mini-bus ride from Vientienne to Luang Prabang was peaceful and relaxing until we started the long ascent into the rugged mountains. Once night fell, the winding-twisting-up-and-down hellish ride began. The fast-moving minivan slamming its passengers from side-to-side as it madly dashed towards the garden of Eden that is Luang Prabang. more...


Ruins of St. Paul's

Posted on 12/28/2009

Ahh, the old-time Catholic saints, traipsing around the world making converts by the thousands and tens of thousands. The original St. Paul's Cathedral of Macau, built from 1582 to 1602 by the Jesuit Order. It is claimed it was the largest Catholic church structure in Asia at the time. more...





Historic Sites of Macau

Posted on 12/28/2009

There are so many things to see in Macau. It was my intention to take in three main points of interest: the cathedral (Ruins of St. Paul's), the casino (Venetian) and the UNESCO heritage sites (counted as a whole, broken down into 8). The historic sites seen during my three days in Macau include Leal Senado Square, Lilau Square, St Augustine's Square, Dom Pedro V Theatre, St Joseph's Seminary Building and Church, St Dominic's Square with St Dominic's Church, Company of Jesus Square has the Ruins of St Paul's & incidentally Guia Fortress. more...


Greyhound Racing at Macau (Yat Yuen) Canindrome

Posted on 12/28/2009

The Canidrome (traditional Chinese: 逸園賽狗場), located in Macau Peninsula, is the only greyhound racing stadium in Asia. Over 300 dogs take part in races on each racing day. It has two grandstands, several private boxes and a VIP lounge.. more...