Macau - August 4 2007

I visited Macau today, taking the fast ferry service (Jetfoil) across the bay. In fact, it was a very plush service - at least on the way there - as I had to take a first class option; all economy places were sold out! It felt a bit like a airplane, free drinks, food, newspapers...All good, and the views were excellent too, though unfortunately we were inside so taking pictures was a bit tricky.

The first thing which strikes you on arrival in Macau are all the casinos lining the road from the ferry terminal into the main part of town - Macau is the only place in China with legalised gambling (they of course look more impressive at night - my first impressions were formed in the sweltering sun of midday and by god it was hot!).

I had a long walk (so much exercise on this trip over the last two weeks - shall have to take a break on my return) through the rather desolate looking high-rise sea-front, over to the older part of town. I must say, for the first time in the trip I was feeling incredibly knackered...but a portion of MSG powered pork noodles came to the rescue in the old town and I was back on my way!

The main square was surrounded by a lot of old European (South European) style buildings, though slightly disappointing to see the dreadful 1960s rubbish towering behind them (unlike Hong Kong, the Macauians are still building crap!).

The old buildings were very beautiful though and I visited one which serves as the seat of the local administration and also houses a fantastic, old library which I had a look around: some fabulous Portugeuse books chronicling China - including a whole series "China Yearbook" - I thought this was only for football teams and players!

Away from the centre there were lots of shops, a lot of modern ones, but of most interest were all the cake shops selling a dazzling array of tempters for anyone's sweet tooth! Unfortunately, not really for me - especially in 38 degress plus, but good to watch the locals and tourists fight through the crowds! After this mayhem, I went to explore the souuthern part of town, heading down to the port. This was probably the best part of the day, lots of small streets, all crammed in, lots of hustle and bustle, really reminiscent of any Southern European town. Felt at home...well nearly!

Returing back on the tourist trail I went to see the remains of St Paul's church, a Jesuit church destroyed by fire, with the facade the only remaining part still standing.

It was still impressive. Nearby the City walls allowed good views over the town and I decided to take in the Guia fort (also on a hill) before heading back. Unfortunately, not one of my smartest ideas as a combination of dreadful Southern European / Chinese inspired urban planning and my useless map reading skills led to me walking around the hill what felt like 5 times looking for a way down! By the time I got back to the port I was cream-crackered!

Tomorrow I head back to Belgium, via London. It has been a fantastic trip, one which has surpassed all my expectations. I have some great memories and certainly would recommend travel here to anyone - it is such a country of contrasts, so vast and with such a warm and friendly people (sometimes in their own unique way...!). I'll no doubt post a final blog from home and also hope to post one or two pictures per day so keep checking the blog! And thanks to all those who posted comments: I couldn't read the blog on the mainland - clearly some of my comments didn't go down too well, but here in Hong Kong I have been able to access it. I can't work out who some of them are from, but still, many thanks!

A final blog update to follow from home, chez les Belges :)

Rob