Image courtesy of www.macautourism.gov.mo
Senado Square is a must-see. It's a popular public square and sure, it's touristy, but there's also a local flavour here, more Portuguese than Chinese, though definitely a blend of both. Paved with a colourful assortment of stones in a wave pattern, the streets feel like old world Europe and show off a Portuguese sense of style and design. Beautiful old colonial buildings flank both sides of the streets and it's easy to forget where you are. For pedestrians only, the square is full of cafes and fashionable shopping and visitors can easily while away a relaxing day here, sipping on fresh fruit slushies under the hot afternoon sun. From glassware and artwork to designer clothing and bags, this outdoor square is a worth exploring. When you get hungry, there are endless options from savoury dim sum to those sweet and delicious Portuguese custard tarts, pasteis de nata.
4. Restaurante Litoral
Much like Thai food, food in Macau is known for its exceptional blend of flavours: sweet and sour, salty and bitter and sometimes even mingling textures like crunchy and smooth. And let's not forget the most obvious marriage of flavours: Macanese cuisine is part Chinese, part Portuguese. Whatever the secret, the food is delish! Restaurants abound in Macau. Many purely Chinese restaurants and many purely Portuguese; while you're visiting, be sure to visit a place that serves Macanese food, that delectable blend of both. Restaurante Litoral is a good place to start but be sure to arrive hungry. The options are plentiful here and you'll want to try traditional favourites like African chicken and minchi (minced pork). And always, always leave room for dessert.
5. Foot massages
The massage business is a burgeoning industry in Asia, and Macau is full of places to sit back, relax and get pampered. But be aware. We're not talking about luxurious spas that cater to your every whim in a pristine environment, with the faint tranquil sounds of classical music filling the air. Sure, there are lots of hotels that offer up the flawless spa experience we Westerners have come to expect. But for something a little more local, wander the streets and you're sure to stumble upon a massage parlor that offers up a limited but reasonable menu of services. A foot massage is likely your safest bet. For about $10, you can relax for an hour and get your tender tootsies ready for more exploring. For more information, visit: www.macautourism.gov.mo
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Your tour guide
Natalie Bahadur is a regular contributor to CanadianLiving.com and the editor of StyleAtHome.com.
