| Q |
I will be holidaying in Hong Kong in April and want to take a day trip to Macau. I am staying in TST. I see there are a variety of ferries on offer to travel to Macau. Which one would be the best to take? Once there how far is it to the city centre? Can I walk from the terminal? |
| A |
There are 3 ferry companies operating between HK and Macau. Cotaijet runs from HK Island to Taipa. Turbojet runs between HK Island and Macau peninsula. First Ferry runs from Kowloon to Macau peninsula, so probably this will be the most convenient for you. Numerous buses run from the Macau peninsula ferry terminal to downtown (Senado Square) - there are large bus route signs at the bus stop directly outside the terminal. The ride is 10 - 20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. |
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| Q |
Do I Need a Visa for Macau? |
| A |
Generally the answer is no; nationals from the US are allocated a thirty day visa free stay in Macau upon arrival. European and Japanese nationals are allowed ninety days visa free stay and UK nationals six months. As with most countries, you will need six months validity on your passport. If you intend on doing business in Macau, as an increasing number of people are, you will need to apply for a business visa at your nearest Chinese consulate. |
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| Q |
What’s the weather like in Macau? |
| A |
Macau is characterized by marine and monsoon climate. The annual average temperature is around 22 centigrade degree with mild changes. The rainy season extends from April to September.
Travel to Macau is possible year-round but scenery varies according to weather and climate. If you want to savor the local festivals, the best time should be autumn and winter when most the local celebrations fall on.
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| Q |
What is Macau money? |
| A |
The Pataca (MOP$) is Macau’s official currency. By the decision of the Government the Pataca is linked to the Hong Kong dollar (HK$) which is accepted as currency in Macau. The exchange rate is MOP$103.20 = HK$100.00. There is an acceptable variation up to 10%. Roughly 10 Patacas is equivalent to 1 EURO and 8 Patacas is equivalent to 1 US Dollar. |
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| Q |
What Are the Rules in Macau's Casinos? |
| A |
The legal gambling age is 18 for foreigners and 21 for residents of Macau.
Cameras, laptops and luggage aren't allowed into the casino and need to be checked at the cloakroom.
Dress code can vary, with local establishments somewhat more uptight, however, in general, no flip flops, shorts or sleeveless tops, for either women or men. There are stricter controls on high roller rooms.
The legal tender is the Hong Kong dollar, not the Macau Pataca. |
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| Q |
How usually can I travel from Macau Int'l Airport to my hotel, which is Holiday Inn? |
| A |
The Holiday Inn Macau is situated almost in the centre, amidst much of the residential estates. Taking taxi from the airport to the hotel may cost around MOP$50-$70. Being an older area, there are a number of eateries and restaurants around so eating is not going to be problem generally. |
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