A destination of contrasts, modern-day Macao is both a glittering metropolis of casinos, skyscrapers and malls - earning itself a reputation as the Las Vegas of Asia - and a historic center that maintains its fascinating cross-cultural roots. Located about 40 miles across from Hong Kong on the western side of the Pearl River delta, Macao was granted to the Portuguese by Ming China in the mid-16th century as a colony and traders' enclave. A prominent trading post, the area quickly became a thriving cultural center, with three official languages: English, Portuguese and Chinese. In addition to the linguistic mix, Macao became known for its unique fusion cuisine, combining Portuguese and Chinese flavors and cooking techniques. The last European colony in Asia, Macao was returned to China in 1999, when it was designated a "Special Administrative Region" (SAR), under which it operates its own legal system, and customs and immigration policy - all independently of China, which handles military and foreign affairs. Since then, it has established itself as one of the world’s richest regions, and since 2006 it has become the world’s largest gambling center - with a number of high-end casinos, many of which are housed in world-class hotels. Despite rapid development, though, Macao still retains its colonial and cultural charms, with historic churches and temples to discover, mosaic-tiled boulevards to explore, and delicious, diverse food to sample.
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Browse a month-by-month breakdown of suggested itineraries, seasonal activities, climate considerations and festivals.
Remote Lands
Choose somewhere you’d like to visit, something you’re interested in, and when you’re planning to travel and we’ll suggest sample itineraries to inspire your bespoke journey.
The best time to visit Macao is March/April and mid-October to November, when humidity is lower and the weather is pleasant.
Multi-Country Specialists
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands – a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
For nearly 500 years, after Portugal first established their colony on the western side of the Pearl River Delta, Iberian and indigenous Chinese traditions have evolved alongside each other, creating a way of life in Macao that is so utterly unique that there is no other like it, anywhere on Earth.
The Las Vegas of Asia has plenty of wholesome treats for families on the lookout for sun, fun, food, and culture.
Whether you jump on a full stomach or an empty one is up to you, but the Mocha Macao Tower’s death-defying bungee feats pair well with suckling pig.
