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[edit] AdventureHotels.travel
While still growing and improving, AdventureHotels.travel is already the internet's biggest and most comprehensive Pacific Rim travel and hotel portal, and with good reason. Adventure Hotels offers a new but simple concept in hotel reservations that tremendously benefits both you, the traveller, and the hotel. We have thirty-nine of the internet's most popular Pacific Rim (and other) destinations for you to choose from. Some of our destinations are huge, and very comprehensive, covering areas as large as SouthPacificHotels.travel.
And finally, our specialty! Through a rigid qualifying process of former guest reviews, we have narrowed down your search to the best value-priced, independently-operated, eco-friendly Macau hotels available.
[edit] No middlemen
Most internet portals will list any hotel as long as it pays the middleman (a chain hotel central reservation system, or the Global Distribution System (GDS) like hotels.com, travelocity, expedia, orbitz, etc.) a huge 20% to 40% commission for each reservation. All of our qualified and listed hotels pay us only an annual listing fee. We make nothing on your reservation.
[edit] Our hotels need to qualify to be listed
Our hotels need to undergo a rigorous qualification process to be listed on our websites. In fact, only about 15% of all hotels qualify. We don't list a lot of hotels, just the best ones. The four step qualification process includes:
- Pricing: all Adventure Hotels must have average prices under US$200, $150 or $100 (depending upon the location) per night double occupancy, but most are far less. Because good quality hotels in Macau tend to be expensive, we have done our best to locate all hotels under US$200, but most are far less. We have determined that there is no need for you to pay more for fine quality, well-located accommodation.
- All Adventure Hotels listed are independently owned and operated which means the owners must personally demonstrate they try harder to satisfy their guests. Often the personal service and advice they offer is worth the price of accommodation alone. Adventure Hotel owners are excited about their hotel and facilities, and it shows. They not only provide excellent accommodations, facilities and services for the price they charge, but also, they have painstakingly put together an attractive, informative website proudly displaying their wonderful hotel (and prices) on the first page (or two) of the search engines. Prices are important and forcing you to contact the hotel to obtain them is annoying. Our hotels do not rely on costly middlemen to send them a steady stream of guests like cattle through a feed lot, making you feel like a statistic (which you are). Adventure Hotels' philosophy is simple. If the hotel doesn't rely mainly on word of mouth, nor have the wherewithall to attract and keep its own guests by providing comfortable, clean, updated accommodations and facilities, and make guests feel welcome and appreciated, then the hotel probably doesn't have the genuine interest to make your stay an authentic, warm, real, and a problem-free experience.
- Former guest reviews: all Adventure Hotels listed have undergone a series of former guest reviews, guests who lay out the truth (as they see it) and the cream hotels that we list have risen to the top positions...don't just take our word on it, trust the opinions of former guests!
- All Adventure Hotels are eco-friendly (to some extent) and must meet minimum requirements of sustainability. Categories include recycling, composting, using renewable energy, conservation of the environment and indigenous cultural promotion, employing local help with chances for upward mobility, buying local produce, reinvesting profits in the local area, informing guests of eco-friendly travelling practises, and generally encouraging visitors to observe, listen, understand and empathize rather than see, hear, take pictures and boast. If visitors prefer the familiar comforts of home, they need to ask themselves why they are traveling?
[edit] Locate the perfect hotel at any destination
From each listed hotel's website, you are able to contact the hotel(s) directly. Ask a real person for multi-night and multi-room, child and senior discount; a quiet room or a top floor room with a view; or to be accommodated close to the pool; extra blankets, towels or pillows; or have them recommend and book a tour or car for you in advance; you can request a romantic bouquet of exotic flowers with a note attached waiting in your room, or a chilled bottle of champagne; or ask questions about the surrounding area, dining, nightlife, laundry services or luggage storage, or a possible early check-in or late check-out. You can't do any of this when you book through a middleman!
[edit] We have done the work for you
Now, confidently make your reservations your way by dealing directly with the hotel, and holding the hotel accountable for what they promised. Though our listed hotels are highly recommended and qualified, if your hotel doesn't live up to your expectations, send us an honest and realistic review, to warn others. However, if it meets or surpasses your expectations, be kind and send us a positive review. These hotels depend on YOUR word of mouth, eliminating the costly middlemen, and saving everyone money. Both you and the hotel win. In fact, the only people that lose are those greedy middlemen.
[edit] Macau Crash Course
The Macau (also spelled Macao/traditional Chinese: maa-gau) is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China (Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo Aomen Tebie Xingzhengqu), a small territory on the southern coast of the People's Republic of China. It was administered by Portugal until 1999, and dating back to the 1500s, it was China's oldest European colony.
Macau's historical Portuguese and Chinese world heritage sites take a back seat to its main attraction, its gambling and casino industry. Many different types of gambling are played in Macau, however income generated from Baccarat is over two thirds of the total industry receipts.
Located at 22°10′N and 113°33′E, Macau's official languages are Chinese (Cantonese de facto) and Portuguese
Macau was founded by the local Chinese from atleast the 5th century. It was occupied by Portugal starting in 1557, and made an official Portuguese colony on August 13, 1862. The administrative power over Macau was transferred to the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1999, and it is now one of two special administrative regions (SAR) of the PRC, together with Hong Kong.
Macau has an area of only 28.2 km² or 10.9 sq mi. The population as of the 3rd qtr. of 2006 was estimated at 508,500. The 2000 census showed a population of 431,000. It has a population density of 17,310 /km², or 44,784 /sq mi.
Historically, the capital was "Cidade do Nome de Deus de Macau" (or Macau Peninsula however this name was abolished upon reunification with China). The government headquarters were located in the St. Lawrence Parish.
[edit] Names of Macau
Lotus Fountain in Macau. Macau's name may have been derived from the Temple of A-Ma or Ma Kok Temple, meaning Lotus Fountain, a landmark that still exists built in 1448 to the goddess Matsu. Other names for Macau are Hou Keng Ou meaning oyster-mirror inlet, Heong San Ou or fragrant-mountain inlet, Lin Tou which is lotus island, as well as Soda Port.
[edit] History
Chinese fishermen have been living and working in the Pearl River delta for more than four thousand years. The small peninsula and islands that came to be called Macau were first settled by the Portuguese in the sixteenth century. Prior to that, they belonged to various counties within the Chinese Empire, with the village of Mong Ha (Wangxia), located on the Macau peninsula, having been settled during the Yuan Dynasty.
Macau was originally part of the Qin empire from 221 to 206 BC ans referred to as Panyu County, Nanhai District, Guangdong Province. During the Jin Dynasty from 265 to 420 AD, the area was an area withing Dongguan County however it alternated under the controls of Nanhai and Dongguan for some time. During the Song Dynasty from 960 to 1279 AD, it was classified administratively as being part of the Xiangshan county.
Starting in the 5th century (maybe before), trading ships travelling between South East Asia and the Guangzhou province used Hou Keng Ou as a rest and resupply refuge for fresh water, and food.
During the Song Dynasty, about fifty thoudsand followers are the first recorded residents of the area trying to secure refuge from the invading Mongols around 1277. Mong Há has always been the center of activity in Macau and has possibly the area's oldest temple, a shrine devoted to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy (Guanyin).
Hoklo boat people were the first to have any interest in using Macau as a trade center for the southern Chinese provinces. Through the Ming Dynasty from 1368 to 1643, many fishermen moved to Macau from Guangdong and Fujian provinces. Here they built the A-Ma Temple to pray for safety on the seas.
[edit] The 1500s and 1600s
The Portuguese obtained the right to anchor ships in Macau harbours in 1535 in order to trade, As a reward for wiping out pirates in the area, by 1553 they were permitted to go ashore to go ashore, establishing a settlement by 1557. Now they were now able to easily dry out goods soaked by sea water, and to be middlemen in trading between the Indians and Japanaese.
In 1670, Portugal leased Macau though there was no change of sovereignty. Jesuit missionaries used Macau as an entry point into China. As Macau prospered, the Dutch made repeated unsuccessful attempts to conquer it in the 1600s.
[edit] The 1800s
After the First Opium War from 1839 to 1842, Portugal started to occupy Taipa in 1851 and Coloane in 1864. By 1887, Portugal and the Qing dynasty government signed the 'Sino - Portuguese Draft', also known as the Treaty of Peking, the Beijing Treaty or the Lisbon Agreement. It stated China would give Portugal perpetual occupation and government of Macau, and in return, Portugal agreed to require China's approval before ever transferring Macau to another sovereignty.
[edit] Before the 1960s
The Kuomintang government and the Portuguese government signed the 'Sino-Portuguese Friendship and Trade Treaty' in 1928. It made only a few clauses about tariffs and other business matters but neglected to mention Macau's position. As a result, Portuguese occupation and government withing Macau stayed unchanged. Portuguese troops occupied the missionary-based Island of Hengqin in 1938, but it was overtaken by Japan in 1941 and was given back to China after the war.
[edit] After the 1960s
Chinese residents in Macau in 1966 tried to get permission to build a private Chinese school on the Island of Taipa, but it was repeatedly rejected by the Portuguese administrators. They started building the school regardless, so the Portuguese police had school officials arrested and construction workers, residents, and press reporters beaten. This resulted in Chinese teachers and their students protesting in front of the Governor’s Palace. Some evwere able to get inside and cited quotations of Mao Zedong, and singing Chinese revolutionary songs. They were arrested by the Portuguese, stirring up further public hatred. The statue of Colonel Vicente Nicolau de Mesquita in the city center was torn down
Chinese people adopted the 'three no's' policy to continue their struggle with the Portuguese government: no taxes, no service and no selling to the Portuguese. It was far more successful and in 1967, the Portuguese of Macau signed a apology. Now began the recognition of the necessity of equal treatment of the Chinese natives, and that China still owned and could control Macau should they decide at any time.
Shaken by a leftist military coup of 1974, the democratic government of Portuguese became determined to release all of its overseas territories and possessions. However, China was not too anxious to operate Macau, and asked Portugal to continue. In 1976, Portugale redefined Macau as a 'Chinese territory under Portuguese administration', granting it a large measure of administrative, economic and financial freedom.
[edit] The transitional handover of the sovereignty of Macau
In 1979, Portugal and the PRC agreed to respect Macau as a 'Chinese territory under temporary Portuguese administration', and by 1987, the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration treaty was signed making Macau a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the PRC to begin on December 20th, 1999, finally ending three hundred and twenty nine years of Portuguese administration.
[edit] Geography
Macau consists of a peninsula and two islands (Taipa and Coloane) extending from it, all on the southern coast of mainland China. It is seventy kilometres southwest of Hong Kong. The peninsula was formed by the Pearl River (Zhujiang) estuary to the east and the West River (Xijiang) to the west. Macau touches the Zhuhai Special Economic Zone on the mainland. Because of Macau's generally flat terrain, it has made extensive use of land reclaiming. The original land mass is demarkated by many steep hills. Macau's peninsula was once an island but a growing sandbar has formed a narrow isthmus, while human-made land reclamation in the 1600s formed Macau into a peninsula. Because of such a dense urban setting, there is no arable land, farms or woodlands. This lack of resources has forced the inhabitants to seek survival from the sea.
[edit] Climate
A warm marine temperate climate prevails in Macau. Seasonal temperature variations are caused by the monsoons, with average summer temperatures around 28C, and winter around 14C. Most of the two meters of annual rain falls in the summer months.
[edit] Demographics
Macau is a special administrative region or dependency of China, and one of the most densely populated regions with the highest level congestion of population of any city in the world. However, according to the CIA factbook, Macau's is the 26th least corrupt country.
Ninety five percent of Macau's population is Chinese, mostly Cantonese and Fujianese plus some Hakka, Shanghainese and even overseas Chinese who have migrated from South East Asia and elsewhere around the world. The remainding persons are of Portuguese or mixed Chinese-Portuguese decent called Macanese, plus several thousand Philippines and Thailand nationals.
The official languages are Portuguese and Chinese. Most residents of Macau speak native Cantonese, however you may hear Portuguese, Mandarin, English, Hokkien, Tagalog, Thai, and several other languages as well. The developed Macanese language, known as Patuá, is a distinctive Creole mixture that is still spoken by about two percent of Macanese whose ancestry is both Asian and Portuguese. Macanese, however, is often also used in a broader sense to mean any resident of Macau.
Macau's work force is based on 16.4 percent manufacturing; 8.3 percent construction; 27.1 percent in the service industries like wholesale and retail trade, repair, hotels and restaurants; 8.6 percent in the financial services, real estate, and other business activities sector; 31.8 percent are employed in public administration, other communities, social and personal services, including gaming; while 6.8 percent represent transport, storage and communications 6.8%. More than half of all imported laborers were from Mainland China.
According to the recent survey conducted by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Macau has always been one of the longest life expectancy at birth in the world. The birth rate,[39] the total fertility rate[40] and the infant mortality rate[41] as well are one of the lowest in the world.
The growth of population in Macau is mainly relying on Chinese immigrants from mainland China and the influx of overseas workers. With over 503,000 people (2006 second quarter estimate) living in that region, Macau is now classified and upgraded as a large city.
The nationality of people with Chinese descent living in Macau and/or those who are qualified to apply for MSAR passport are considered as Chinese. Although dual nationality is not recognized by the government of Macau SAR, foreign passports (including Portuguese passports) can be freely used as travel documentation without restrictions, regardless of one's nationality.
[edit] Health rankings
Macau has a very low fertility rate as 221th most fertile country, at 1.02 per woman and a low birth rate ranking, 221th of 243 countries, at 8.48 per 1,000 population. Infant mortality ranks 213th, at 4.37 per 1000 live births. The death rate is low at 207th, at 4.35 per 1000 people, while life expectancy is the planet's second highest, at 82.19 years. They must be doing something right!
[edit] Religion and culture
According to some recent census figures with 355,000 persons as the sample size, fifteen percent had no religion, while nearly eighty percent
Macau people believe in the Chinese folk religions, which includes the faiths of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism and the folk gods and goddesses (especially Kuan Yin and Matsu), like other Chinese communities. There are between forty and fifty temples of various sizes in Macau, mostly built a century or so ago, although some date back five-hundred years. In certain occasions one can find out that Kuan Yin or the images of Buddha and other gods or xoanons from the sphere of Taoism might appear within the same temple. The most famous ones are the Kun Iam Temple, the A-Ma Temple and, in particular, the Lotus Temple built in 1592. The Catholic Diocese of Macau was established on 23 January, 1576. Macau was also the first station of the Protestant church for mission in China.
[edit] Economy
Macau had a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2005 estimated at $11.5 billion, or a per capita income of $24,3002, 43rd of 229 countries. Because of the high per capita income, the Human Development Index (HDI) in 2003 was ranked 25th in the world. Unemployment rate, 39th lowest, at 4.10%.
Currency: the Macanese Pataca (MOP). As of March 11th, 2007, 1.00 USD = 8.04945 MOP
Tourism and especially gambling is what Macau's major economy is based on. Their strong gaming and hospitality sector contributes an estimated fifty percent of Macau's GDP, and seventy percent of the Macau government's tax revenue.
However, there is also a strong export-driven textile industry and garment manufacturing accounting for 75% of the export revenue, and a banking and financial services industry. Macau is a founding member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and has a representative office at the organization's headquarters in Geneva. Market-opening pledges largely in the sphere of financial services has been made at the WTO.
[edit] Macau center
Macau is one of the world's well-known offshore finance and banking centres and tax havens. Some of the most influential banks are Bank of China, Banco Nacional Ultramarino, Seng Heng Bank and Tai Fung Bank.
Many foreign banks are also registered and established in Macau such as the Bank of America, and the HSBC. Macau operates as a duty free port with no policy of monetary control imposed. Operating an offshore business is totally feasible in Macau, without fear of the tax man where you operate.
[edit] Investment
If you want to obtain permanent residency status, you need to purchase fixed assets worth approximately US$125,000, and another US$66,000 need to be deposited in certain appointed credit institutions in Macau. The Macau government has successfully attracted billions of dollars and foreign capital creating a net positive effect on the Macau economy, particularly in the real estate realm.
[edit] Real Estate
The Macau real estate market has seen considerable growth since the announcement that the territories casino monopoly would be lifted in 2002, with capital values in some areas increasing three fold. Today, the region’s real estate industry is supported by strong fundamentals including the growth in expatriate workers, domestic consumption, investment immigration and retail sales.
The territory of Macau continues to be driven by solid economic fundamentals, with recent macro economic data suggesting that the gaming market continues to underpin the broader economy. According to the Macau Census and Statistics Department, 2006 unemployment reached a new seven year low of 3.8%, medium incomes reached HK$6,800 and year on year Macau GDP grew at +11.4% and CPI at +4.7%. These underlying drivers provide a solid backdrop for strong price appreciation in the Macau real estate market for years to come.
Macau property is also supported by the sectors relative price compared to other neighboring markets, such as Hong Kong, where Macau real estate values trade at approximately 30% of those in Hong Kong. The growth in non-gaming related sectors in Macau also provides further support to the residential and commercial property markets, as individuals look to Macau as a location for a vacation home, or to gain alternative residency. Residency investments are becoming increasingly common as individuals who invest HK$1,000,000 or more in a commercial or residential property can apply for Macau residency.
Demand for residential property has also been coupled with the strong growth of commercial sectors. This sector of the market is currently being transformed, with a number of major retail development projects slated for launch over the coming years. According to Jones Lang LaSalle the growth in local consumption patterns, as well as tourist arrivals, will provide considerable support to this area of the market. The supply of retail property space for 2006 is forecast to be 113,000 square feet, increasing to 1.1m square feet in 2007, 2.5m square feet in 2008 and 4m square feet by 2009. The arrival of the Las Vegas Sand’s Venetian project alone will include 1.2m square feet of shopping malls.
[edit] Other rankings
- CO2 emissions - 85th highest emissions, at 4.1 tonnes per capita
- CIA World Factbook - Electricity Consumption - 128th highest consumption of electricity, at 2,159,000,000 kWh
[edit] Interesting facts
Macau boasts eight Chinese-language and three Portuguese-language dailies, as well as one English-language daily: The Macau Post Daily.
Alcatel-Lucent has been granted a contract in Feb 2007 to collocate a CDMA 2000 1xEV-DO (Revision A) high-speed wireless network in Macau for China Unicom. Following the completion of the upgrades in related software and hardware, China Unicom will be equipped with the facilities needed to provide high-speed mobile data services for users in Macau including broadcasting and video telephony.
Kim Jong Nam, the eldest son of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il, has lived in Macau since 2004. The US imposed sanctions on a Macau bank for allegedly assisting Pyongyang to launder ill-gotten funds. However, the United States agreed to resolve the issue of frozen North Korean bank accounts in Macau's Banco Delta Asia if North Korea disarms its own atomic arsenal.
The City of Dreams, the first underwater casino in the world will be opened in 2008. The underwater casino complex consists of 450 gaming tables and 3,000 slot machines. It costs eight billion Hong Kong dollars (US$1bn, £545m) to create the "City of Dreams".
Las Vegas Sands chairman Sheldon Adelson, the world's 14th richest man, has said that his company will soon be a mainly Chinese enterprise, and quipped that Las Vegas should be called "America's Macau". The president and chief operating officer of Las Vegas Sands Corporation predicted on 12 February, 2007 that Macau has topped that of the Las Vegas Strip and will more than double again by 2010.
On December 17, 2006, the father of bungee jumping, A J Hackett, and popular artiste, Edison Chen, broke two Guinness World Records at the Macau Tower. A J Hackett, broke his own Guinness World Record of 'the highest bungee jump from a building' achieved in 1998. Edison Chen represented Macau Tower in the inaugural jump to bid for 'the world's highest bungee jump facility'.
[edit] Tourism
[edit] Entry requirements
Citizens of US, Canada and other 53 countries may visit Macao without visas. Citizens from the other countries may apply the visa when they enter Macao. Please visit the Identification Department of Macao web site: Visa Information for details.
[edit] Tourism is booming
From 9.1 million in 2000, arrivals to Macau have grown to 18.7 million in 2005, with over 50% of the arrivals coming from mainland China. This recent growth has been driven by gambling and related tourism. Tourists from Hong Kong remain numerous, representing about 30% of arrivals. Since the 1999 return to Chinese rule, Triad underworld violence, a dark spot on the economy, has virtually disappeared, to the benefit of the tourism sector.
The average growth rate between 2001 and 2005 has been approximately 10% annually. In the first two quarters of 2006, the GDP of Macao had grown by 17.7%. The GDP per capita in 2005 was USD $24,300. In the second quarter of 2006, the unemployment rate stood at only 3.8%.
[edit] Transportation and getting around
In Macau visitors will find an efficient bus service, not only in the main city but also on the islands. Visitors can find the destinations, itineraries and stops in the information panels located at every bus stop. All the buses have air conditioning. Between Macau and Taipa, visitors can catch buses 11, 22, 28A, 30, 33, 34 or the airport bus AP1. Buses 21, 21A, 25, 26, and 26A connect Macau, Taipa and Coloane. There are other buses circulating around the Macau peninsula.
There are plenty of taxis. The flagfall charge is MOP$11.00. There is no surcharge between Macau and Taipa island, but between Taipa and Coloane, a MOP$2.00 surcharge applies; between Macau and Coloane there is a MOP$5.00 surcharge. Moreover, there is a MOP$3.00 surcharge for each piece of luggage carried in the boot (trunk). In order to eliminate the language barrier between taxi drivers and passengers, the Tourist Office has provided most taxis with a destination guide which includes the names of the most requested destinations in Chinese, Portuguese and English. When used together with a map, this guide will reduce many of the usual misunderstandings.
[edit] Ponte de Amizade and Hong Kong-Macau ferry terminal
In the past, the Macau Maritime Museum would arrange for two sailing vessels (which were based on the ancient "junk" form but somewhat remodeled) to tour the inner and outer harbours. Along the trip, the ship's crew would introduce the general lifestyle and customs of the local boat dwellers. Food and drink were occasionally provided during the trip. However, due to the land reclamation works in the harbour and the boat maintenance, all of these trips have been temporarily suspended. The exhibition building and the open-air café esplanade of the Maritime Museum are open as usual (though closed on Tuesdays).
The Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier is located in Porto Exterior, Macao Peninsula, Macau, near the Reservatório (reservoir) on Avenidea de Amizade. It provides ferry services to Hong Kong. The terminal provides 12 berths for hydrofoil and 2 for ferry. The pier features a heliport, providing an alternative other than Turbojet to travellers. The terminal building is a two storey structure with arrivals on the lower level and departures on the upper level. On the outside is a helipad and six boat docks.
Macau tourism office is located in the lower level, as well as restroom facilities. A duty Free shop is located on the upper level.
The trishaw, a hybrid of the bycycle and the rickshaw, is a unique but rather slow way to move about. The jinrikisha (standard rickshaw) has not served as a practical method of mass transit in Macau for many years. However, it is a good idea to use the jinrikisha to roam around in Nanwan or other interesting areas. There is no standard fee for rickshaw service, so one may need to first negotiate with the owner.
Anyone who wishes to hire (rent) a car will need to be at least 21 years old, have an I.D. such as a passport, a valid driver's license (or, for some countries, an international driving license), and a credit card to make a deposit.
[edit] Landmarks
Macau preserves China's largest group of historical properties in an urban area, as it had almost five
Historic Center of Macau landmarks include:
- A-Ma Temple - is one of the landmarks of Macau, situated on the southwest tip of the Macau Peninsula. It is dedicated to the goddess Matsu. First built in 1488, it is the oldest of Macao's three major temples. It is said that Macau, the Portuguese name of the city, came from the temple. It was well described in words, as well as with brushes and sail cloth, by Chinese and westerners. It is also one of the first scenes photographed in China.
- Casa Gardens - is a small parkette located in the mainland area of Macau. Built some time around 1799, the park was once the home of merchant Manuel Pereira and also the residence for directors of the Macao Branch of the English East India Company. The park contains the old residence, Old Protestant Cemetery and an art gallery.
Lou Lim Ieoc Garden
- Casino Lisboa - is one of the most famous casinos in Macau, People's Republic of China. The casino is owned by the Sociedade de Turismo e Diversões de Macau, a Stanley Ho company. This three-storey complex was built in late 1960s. Since then Macau has been known as the 'Monte Carlo of the Orient'. The original casino and 12-storey round hotel tower were built in 1970 with a 270-room extension added in 1991 for a total of 927 rooms. As of 2006, yet another extension, the Grand Lisboa, is being built next to the current complex. This expansion is being done partly in competition with the newly opened Wynn Macau, located right next to the original Casino Lisboa.
- Fortaleza do Monte - is the historical military centre of Macau. The fort was initially built in the 16th century for protecting the properties of the Jesuit missions in Macau. Later it was seized by the governor, for the defense of Macau. The Museu de Macau (The Museum of Macau) was built on the hill in the 1990s. The tree covered park at the top of the fort has a panaromic view of the mainland area of Macau.
- Guia Fortress - is a historical military fort, chapel, and lighthouse complex in Macau. The fort and chapel were constructed between 1622 and 1638. The lighthouse was constructed between 1864 and 1865, the first western style lighthouse in east Asia or on the China coast. The lighthouse stands at 91 meters tall, and has a light visible for some 20 miles in clear weather conditions. The complex was built upon the highest point on Macau, Guia Hill, and named after the same location. The fortress played a small role in repulsing an attempted Dutch invasion of Macau in 1622, during which a cannonball (fired from another Macau fort) abruptly ended the invasion plans by landing in a powder keg onboard a Dutch ship. In 1998, frescoes (plaster paintings) were uncovered in the chapel during routine conservation work, representing both western and Chinese themes. Today, the site is a tourist destination.
Guia Hill
- Macau Fisherman's Wharf - is the first theme park in Macau. It is located in the Macau Peninsula, near the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier. The construction took five years, opening on December 31st, 2005. The complex includes over 150 stores and restaurants in buildings built in the style of different world seaports such as Cape Town, Amsterdam and Venice, six rides, a slots hall, a 72-room hotel, and a casino.
[edit] Visitor attractions include
- Tang Dynasty Fortress - an attraction which is not yet open to the public.
- East Meets West - Vulcania, a forty-metre-tall replica volcano which 'erupts' every evening and inside of which the 'River of Fire' white-water and 'Dragon Quest' rollercoaster rides are housed. The exterior of Vulcania includes walkways styled on the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.
- Aladdin's Fort - an attraction in the style of a middle-eastern fort which is home to a variety of children's funfair rides.
- Aqua Romanis - a Roman-themed shopping centre.
- Roman Ampitheatre - an open-air ampitheatre decorated in the style of the Colliseum in Rome which is a venue for pop-concerts and other performances with seating for an audience of up to 2,000.
- The Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Legend Wharf - a complex of shops, hotels, restaurants and a casino themed on coastal towns including Miami, Cape Town, New Orleans, Amsterdam, Venice, Spain, Portugal and the Italian Riviera.
- Vasco da Gama Waterworld - a performance venue for water-based shows including four jet-ski performances every day. A proposal submitted to the government recently would allow them to add three more hotels, a marina, a disco, an exposition center and new executive offices, a HK$1.1 billion extension. Once approval has been granted, it is expected that the construction of this extension will take about two years.
- Macau Sky Tower - is a tower that measures 338 m (1,109 ft) in height from ground level to the
View over Macau Tower and bridge to Taipahighest point. An observation deck with panoramic views, restaurants, theaters, shopping malls and an exhillarating walk around the outer rim called the Skywalk X. From it you have the best view of Macau, and recently they have used the platform for bungee jumping which at 233 meters, the 'skyjump' from the Macau Tower is the highest tethered jump in the world. Other than for entertainment and observation, they tower supports excellent broadcasting and telecommunications. On a visit to Auckland, New Zealand, Macau casino billionaire Stanley Ho Hung-Sun was so impressed by the Sky Tower in Auckland that he commissioned a similar one to be built in Macau.
Skywalk on the Macau Tower
- Old Protestant Cemetery - was established by the British East India Company in 1821 in Macau in response to a lack of burial sites for Protestants in the Catholic Portuguese colony. It is the last resting place of the artist George Chinnery, missionaries Robert Morrison and Rev. Samuel Dyer, Royal Navy Captain Henry John Spencer-Churchill (son of George Spencer-Churchill and great-great-grand-uncle of Winston Churchill) and US Naval Lieutenant Joseph Harod Adams (grandson of the second president of the United States, John Adams, and nephew of the sixth, John Quincy Adams).
Macau was considered by the Portuguese to be sacred Catholic ground and the authorities barred the burial of Protestants within its city walls, whilst on the other side of the barrier gate the Chinese were equally as intolerant of the burial of foreigners in its soil. This left the Protestant community of British, American and northern European traders with the only option of a secret night-time burial in the land between the city walls and the barrier gate, and the risk of confrontation with Chinese should they be discovered, or worse, desecration of the grave once they had gone.
The matter was finally resolved in 1821 after the death of Robert Morrison's wife, Mary, when the local committee of the East India Company voted to purchase a plot of land and resolve its legal status with the Portuguese such that the burial of Protestants would be permitted there. Later the East India Company allowed burial of all foreigners, and several graves were moved from other locations outside the city walls into the cemetery, explaining why some graves are dated before its founding in 1821. Nationals of Britain, the United States of America, Holland, Denmark, Sweden and Germany are buried there.
The cemetery was closed in 1858, after which the cemetery began to be referred to as the "Old" Protestant Cemetery. Adjoining the cemetery is the Morrison Chapel.
- Ruins of Saint Paul's Cathedral — was a 16th-century cathedral built to dedicate Jesus' apostle, Saint Paul. Today, its ruins are arguably the Macau Region's most famous tourist site.
It was built during the period of 1582 to 1602 by Jesuits, and at the time was the largest Catholic church in Asia. The royalty of Europe competed to bestow the best gifts upon the Cathedral. As the importance of Hong Kong increased having the Pearl River port, Macau declined in importance, and so did the cathedral. During a typhoon in 1835, it was destroyed by a fire. Overlooking the ruin is the Fortaleza do Monte.
The southern stone façade, with its sixty six stone steps, sits on a small hill. It was intricately carved by exiled Japanese Christians, plus the Jesuits crypts who established and looked after the Cathedral. Oriental themes dominate the carvings , such as a female figure stepping on a seven headed hydra, with inscriptions in Chinese saying she was the 'Holy Mother'. Other engravings are of the founders who established the Jesuit Order, and the conquest of 'Death by Jesus', and several others, all guarded above by a flying dove.
While restoring the ruins between 1990 and 1995, in order to prevent its total collapse because it had a dangerous lean, the crypt and its foundations were unearthed exposing the architectural plans of the building. They found several religious artifacts, the relics of the Japanese Christian martyrs and their monastic clergy including Father Alessandro Valignano, the founder of the Macau Jesuit college in Macau. It is now a museum, and fortified with concrete and steel preserving the aesthetics. You can climb a steel stairway from the rear to the top of the facade. For luck you may want to throw coins through the top window, as many do (especially before heading to a casino).
[edit] Sands Macau
With the opening of the Sands Macau, the largest casino in the world as measured by the total number of table games, in 2004 and Wynn Macau in 2006, gambling revenues from Macau's casinos were for the first time greater than those of Las Vegas Strip (each about $6 billion), making Macau the highest-volume gambling centre in the world. Other casinos and hotels slated to be opened through 2009 are: The Venetian Macao (2007), Four Seasons (2007), MGM Grand Macau (2007), Ponte 16 (2007), Far East Consortium Complex (2007), Grand Hyatt (2007), Galaxy Cotai Megaresort (2008), City of Dreams (2008), Oceanus (2008), Mandarin Oriental (2009). The first phase of Macau's Cotai Strip is scheduled to open in 2007 and will include 19,000 guest rooms throughout seven resort hotels, with the $1.8 billion Venetian Macao serving as the anchor. The head of the Virgin Group, Sir Richard Branson is in the latter stage of negotiation to secure land in Macau, where he is going to set up a US$3 billion casino resort complex. As a result, Macau's economy is growing rapidly due to gambling related tourism and construction from the new casino entrants.
[edit] Nightlife
Nightlife in Macau is famous for its variety, its frantic pace and constant change. For the party goers this is a city that never sleeps, with plenty of bars, casinos and restaurant's, open all night long.
One of the most popular barhopping areas is The Docks, which is an area of outdoor cafes and bars lining Avenida Dr., Sun Yat-Sen, near the Kun Iam Statue. Macau nightclubs and bars offer Portuguese folk dancing, live bands and cutting-edge DJ's. The music is very cosmopolitan, with bars throbbing to the rhythms of Brazil, Portugal, England, Africa and most parts of Asia. If you are the type who would prefer to hit the dance floor rather than a café or bar, then head to the popular discos on Avenida do Infante D. Henrique.
In addition, Fisherman's Wharf is another new area which is a must see, featuring themed towns from around the world. It has some great night spots, including Hong Kong's famous 'Al's Diner'. Here you can choose to either drink under the stars on the deck or at the bustling bar. Other popular night spots are the Ritz Nightclub at the Jai Alai Palace, the Skylight Disco and Nightclub at the Hotel Presidente, or if you prefer live music, go to the Mandarin Oriental's Bar da Guia.
A must do for any visitor to Asia is to visit a Karaoke lounge! They are a popular form of Macau nightlife, offering private rooms for groups of friends, as well as rooms open to the public where you can really let loose. There are several karaoke clubs down at The Docks, and all around the city centre. If you prefer to sit back and watch rather than participate on stage, then Cabaret-style entertainment is also on offer, with the performance of the 'Crazy Paris Show' on offer daily at the Restaurant Portas do Sol at the Hotel Lisboa, from 10:00pm to 10:30pm. This show is highly recommended!
If you are not staying in the city centre, there are also some popular pubs on Taipa Island, opposite the Macau Jockey Club that offer a relaxed, casual ambience. On Coloane, you can drink under the stars on the terrace at the Pousada de Coloane over looking the beach or you may choose to sip a glass of Port at the refined Westin Resort.
Macau is jokingly a hotbed for prostitution. Massage parlors, high-class escorts and women on the street detail the full compliment of sexual gratification services that are easy to find if you are in the market. Remember though these sex workers may look and act innocent, and just out for a good time, that is likely a facade. They generally have been forced into the work for economic or other reasons making them poor and desperate, and will possibly take advantage of you if you give them an opportunity. And they certainly aren't immune to any STD.
[edit] Dining
Although you would not think so given the name, Macau’s most famous specialty is African Chicken where chicken is baked with coconut, peanut butter, garlic and chillies. Both Macau and Portugal are nations of fishermen and Macau’s cuisine reflects this with plenty of fish and seafood dishes. Cod, prawn and crab dishes are particularly numerous.
Apart from the local cuisine, you will find a great number of world class restaurants in Macau serving everything from French Haut Cuisine to Sushi. Enjoy!
[edit] Casinos
Gambling has existed in Macau since it was legalized by the Portuguese in 1847 and Macau is today the only Chinese territory where casino gambling is legal. Shortly after the 1999 handover to China, Stanley Ho’s gaming monopoly ended and the Macau authorities offered casino licenses to other operators including the US casino giants. The next few years will be very exciting as a number of international casino chains will open extravagant hotel and casino resorts in Macau.
The legal gambling age in Macau is 18 (21 for Macau residents). Most casinos enforce a strict dress code; no shorts or undershirts and no flip-flops. Photography is prohibited by law inside the casinos. Tips are not expected but always appreciated.
[edit] Safely.travel
Macau is a fairly safe city by day and night as long as you keep in mind general precautions such as keeping your belongings close and leaving large amounts of cash in your hotel safe. Beggars seem few, however, should you venture outside the casinos, you will most likely encounter a fair number of hawkers trying to sell you stuff or to give you special deals.
Do not believe it when strangers approach you, promising you special deals on certain local products, or taxi drivers recommend shops or restaurants that offer a "special" discount. Book tours with licensed operators only. When taking a taxi, write down the driver's name (in most countries a sort of permit has to be openly displayed in the cab) and the license number of the taxi. Ignore the "Sir, you very lucky man" Indians. They have spread all around the world and promise to tell your fortune, but are actually frauds (aren't they all?).
Do not participate in sidewalk gambling such as the game with the turned-over cups. These games are set-ups and you will be fleeced. Particularly after dark, petty street crime occasionally occurs in tourist areas, including in and around casinos.
Any crime including the loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to the local police and to the nearest consulate. Persons violating the law, even unknowingly, can be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
If you are new to travelling, or even if you have travelled the globe for years, I strongly recommend you check out the following link for some very interesting and informative reading about safe travelling in Macao, and the Third World in general. It is an accumulation of original thoughts and experiences of several worldly travellers, just go to Safely.Travel. It was written with the Third World in mind, where travelling disasters are around every corner, and a pre-emptor to what we may all expect someday in the First World as populations increase and desperate people become more brave and sophisticated in their survival techniques. It will make you aware of all sorts of scams, how to check into a hotel, advice for single lady travellers, advice for single men travellers, rip tides, credit card scams, driving in a foreign land, kidnapping, street people, you name it. It is an essential read for anyone travelling, and the most comprehensive discussion I know of!
[edit] Macau hotels
As mentioned above, the following Auckland hotels had to qualify to be listed here. They must be independently owned and operated, meet minimum eco-friendly requirements, rise to the top after a series of former guest reviews, and their average nightly double occupancy room rate must be less than US$200 per night. We have also listed budget accommodations as well as popular bed and breakfasts.
Click on any hotel website we provide, and talk to a real person. Avoid misunderstandings caused by a middleman. Before you make your reservation, you can request a multi-night or multi-room, child or senior discount; a quiet room, or a top floor room, or a room with a view; or if you wish to be accommodated close to the pool; if you want extra blankets, towels or pillows; or have them recommend and book a tour or car for you in advance; you can request a romantic bouquet of exotic flowers with a note attached waiting in your room, or a chilled bottle of champagne; or ask questions about the surrounding area, dining, nightlife, laundry services or luggage storage, or a possible early check-in or late check-out. Play one hotel against the other. You can't do any of this when you book through a middleman, and without the middleman's whopping 20% to 40% commission to pay, a hotel has far more flexibility in satisfying your requests! AdventureHotels.travel makes no commission from any reservation, and only charges a small annual fee to list the hotel on our websites.
It costs you nothing to enjoy the fruits of our labor, and the savings and advantages are up to you when you deal directly with the hotel!
[edit] Our most qualified Macau hotels under $200 (in order of value for money)
- Pousada Marina Infante - With a cozy and unique lake side environment, the Pousada Marina Infante is an international standard four-star hotel. Located at the Taipa Island, in which the Border Gate of the Lotus Bridge to Heng Qin Island, China, Macau Maritime Terminal and the Macau International Airport can be conveniently reached within 15 minutes by car, you can find the heritage of both Chinese and Portuguese, historical and modern sightseeing spots, with just a leisure walk to downtown. With a total of 312 cozily decorated rooms and suites in our eleven-storey-tall hotel, all of them are well- equipped with a computerized card key system, IDD telephone, remote control colour television, in-house movies, individual temperature control, internet service and a well-stocked mini bar. Take a break from your heavy workload! To relax your body and soul, just come to our Health Club for a lake view workout or enjoy our indoor heated swimming pool. Moreover, take a sauna or steam bath to release yourself fatigue.
- Kingsway Hotel - Located in the heart of the Macau's new commercial district of Porto Exterior, only three minutes' drive from the Macau Pier. Kingsway Hotel offers magnificent views of Macau and Taipa Island. Famous sightseeing spots are only steps away. Kingsway Hotel's unrivalled location offers total convenience for both travelling business executives and holiday-makers alike. Each of our 410 rooms and suites is designed for your total relaxation. From standard rooms to the Kingsway Suite, all rooms are equipped with central air-conditioning, individual control of IDD access telephone, bathroom extension, color television, bedside console with radio and light controls, stocked mini bar and refrigerator to ensure every guest with a comfortable and pleasant stay.
- Royal Hotel - Hotel Royal Macau is an elegant luxury hotel situated on Estrada da Vitoria near the centre of Macau at the foot of the city's legendary landmark, the 174-metre-high hill, Colina da Guia. Well placed for both business and leisure travellers, Hotel Royal Macau offers a haven of comfort and serenity in one of Asia's most exciting cities. Hotel Royal Macau sits on the doorstep of the Guia Fortress, site of the first lighthouse on the Chinese coast. Within walking distance, guests of the hotel will find the ruins of St Paul's, the Vasco da Gama Monument and many other attractions in Macau's vibrant city centre. Hong Kong is only an hour away, and the Chinese border gate at Zhuhai is a 15-minute drive. Well equipped with a Fitness Centre, a swimming pool and a choice of 380 spacious guest rooms and suites over 19 floors, the Hotel Royal presents the highest standards in all areas of accommodation and service, and is amongst the largest of all hotels in Macau. Every guest room at the hotel is beautifully appointed, using the finest furnishings in an innovative style, to create an atmosphere of contemporary luxury. Breathtaking views of Macau and its harbour are a feature of all rooms.
- Pousada de Coloane Beach Hotel - Pousada de Coloane is situated on Cheoc-Van beach surrounded by green tree-clad mountains and set in the quiet country-side of Coloane Island. This family hotel is a unique venue, romantic, peaceful and relaxing place. Operated by the same family for more than 25 years, the hotel has recently undergone a major renovation and is decorated in a typical rustic Portuguese style. The thirty double rooms, all with privates balconies, overlook Cheoc-van beach and in the distance, the mountains of Mainland china.
- Pousada De Sao Tiago - Romantic and intriguing, Macau has retained the historic beauty of the Orient - a timeless quality searched for by travellers from both near and far. The Fortaleza da Barra was one of the fortresses built in the 17th century by the Portuguese to defend Macau against hostile European nations and local pirates. One hundred years later a chapel was built within its walls and dedicated to Saint James, the patron saint of the Portuguese garrison. Today, much of the fortress and the Chapel have been preserved as part of the Pousada de Sao Tiago. Twenty rooms and four suites. From the balcony of each luxurious guest room & suite, look out upon the picturesque Inner Harbour. Bathed in glorious sunlight, the trees around which the hotel is designed are reflected in the tranquil waters. Relax on the Terrace and let time stand still, while the atmosphere and fragrances of Macau are brought upon light breezes to enchant you. In-room facilities include ensuite bathrooms, individual temperature control, international direct-dial telephone, colour television, music and radio, mini-bar, and hair dryer. We also provide a full range of services for our hotel guests, some of which are: an outdoor swimming pool & lawn for sun-bathing, baby cribs, baby sitting, car hire, car parking, complimentary pier transfer, currency exchange, facsimile transmission, ferry tickets, free shuttle service, laundry and dry cleaning, room service until midnight, safety deposit box, secretarial services, shoe cleaning, sightseeing advice, and travel and tour arrangements.
- New Century Hotel - The hotel represents an exclusive international 5-star entertainment and leisure complex on the island of Taipa overlooking a magnificent view of Pearl River. It has 554 luxurious and spacious guest rooms including 16 one-bedroom executive suites, 2 two-bedroom deluxe executive suites, and 1 presidential suite, which is all carefully thought-out to provide comfort and ease to our valued guests. Designed and furnished in unique European decor, most of the rooms command a panoramic view of the Pearl River. To cater for our long-staying guests, 28 serviced apartments are also available to provide a cosy and family-styled environment.
- Hotel Sintra - is situated in the heart of Macao, just one block away from one of the largest 24-hour casino in town: Lisboa Casino. We offer easy accessability to the business and shopping centre of the city. Centrally located at a quiet corner off the main street of Macao, five minutes from the Macao Ferry Terminal and fifteen minutes from the Macao International Airport, Hotel Sintra offers easy accessibility to the business and shopping center of the city. Our unusually large guest rooms are newly renovated with modern in-room facilities for your total relaxation: ensuite bathroom, satellite TV channel and an in-house movie channel, mini-bar and full amenities. To cater to today's business and communication needs, selected rooms are equipped with broadband connection. The Executive Floor is thoughtfully designed and devoted to offer business executives an extended range of services. The Sintra Restaurant offers the best-in-town grilled premium steak dishes, authentic Macanese dishes as well as an extensive selection of Portuguese wines at great value, round the clock. For diners who prefer Chinese cuisine, the Chinese Dining Room offers tantalizing dim sum and authentic Chinese delicacies.
- MetroPark Hotel - Conveniently located in the heart of Macau, five minutes drive from the Macau ferry terminal and fifyeen minutes from Macau International Airport. No casino or night club, offering you an environment of serenity. It has the only roof-top revolving function room in Macau. The Metropark Hotel was designed with one goal in mind: to meet the needs of today's more demanding guests, whether business or leisure travelers. Modern architecture is combined with soft, comfortable interiors in pastel shades with every facility demanded from a top class hotel, and at a price that is excellent value for money. For relaxation, our Health Center is your ideal place to go. It contains an indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam, sauna and gymnasium equipment.
- Hotel Fortuna - Hotel Fortuna is located in the heart of the San Hau Ngon district within walking distance of the business and shopping centers, and only fifteen minutes from the airport and five minutes from the ferry terminal. Our 342 rooms are specially designed for your total relaxation. They create a perfect place away from the busy world. Our rooms are all well-equipped with modern in-room facilities, including an ensuite bathroom, hi-fi equipment, mini-bar and pay movies. Our famous Chinese Restaurant is under the direction of Mr. Yeung Koon Yat, acclaimed as the "Chef of the Century". He serves a variety of tasteful Chinese cuisine including abalone, bird nest, shark's fin and seafood.
- Hotel Beverly Plaza - Stepping into the grand and elegantly renovated hotel lobby, incoming guests will not only experience the warm atmosphere, they shall also be guaranteed of an enjoyable stay by a full range of hospitalities offered by our staff members. The Game Center is located on 4th floor and is right next to the Cafe Beverly. Different kinds of electronic games are suitable for both children and adults. Millionaire's Palace Karaoke on 2nd floor can let you experience a truly indulgent and relaxing evening. Next to the Karaoke, the Palace Sauna facility is also a perfect place for escaping from a busy day.
- Hotel Guia Macau - Conveniently located at the foot of the hostorical Guia Lighthouse, Hotel Guia Macau is nestled in the lush gardens of the Guia Hill and peaceful surroundings of the four century old Portuguese enclave while overlooking the scenic splendors of the Pearl River estuary. The hotel also provides easy access to the shopping and entertainment district as well as the ferry pier. During the annual Macau Grand Prix, it offers a close up view over the Guia section.
- Hotel Golden Dragon - Hotel Golden Dragon is an award winning four star hotel, you will be welcomed with warm smiles, friendly and efficient services. Superb Cantonese cuisine and home made dishes are at their best. By taking care of both delicious and nutritious, the Farm House has been renowned for its mouthwatering Chinese cuisine. Villa Picasso Restuarant, with an elegant European-themed design, offers a la carte and buffets running from morning to evening with a wide array of local, regional and international specialties. Those with time on their hands can unwind with a dip in the pool, or soak up the sun, or enjoy a healthy workout in the hotel’s fitness centre. They are the perfect places to refresh the soul.
- Emporer Hotel - The Emperor Hotel is centrally and conveniently located to make your visit to Macau all the more enjoyable. During your stay, you will be only steps away from the casinos, nightclubs, shopping area and our unique attractions. The hotel is only a ten minute walk from the ferry terminal and a fifteen minute drive from the Macau International Airport. The Emperor Hotel offers a choice of 398 tastefully decorated rooms and suites. The Emperor Hotel offers you the ultimate business travel in the exclusive Executive Floor. A hotel within a hotel, our Executive Floors are located on the top three levels of the building. The Executive Floors come complete with an exclusive Executive Lounge serving complimentary breakfasts and evening drinks.
- Casa Real Hotel - Inspired by authentic Portuguese architecture, the Casa Real Hotel is adjacent to the Ferry Terminal linking to the three destinations of Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Hong Kong International Airport, with just a ten minute drive from the Macau International Airport. The hotel is easily accessible to the newest tourist districts. You will find the Sands, Macau Fisherman's Wharf, Macau Grand Prix Main Spectator's Stand, Macau Cultural Centre, and the New Yaohan Department Store are just a few steps away. For your comfort, our 381 guestrooms are spaciously designed and state of the art. They are categorized from standard to suite for your preference. The three restaurants and bars offer international and authentic specialties to tempt your appetite. The newly upgraded casino, housed on the ground floor and extending to the second floor, will surely delight you with its luxurious and modern ambiance. In Casa Real Hotel, every guest is guaranteed to feel our difference.
[edit] About the author
By Jim Nealon, a lifelong friend
Canadian Eric Robinson and I lived in the same residence at the University of Waterloo, in Ontario, Canada in 1971. After graduating with a degree in Environmental Studies (BES), majoring in cultural geography, Eric, always a bundle of energy, backpacked around the world in 1974-75. He travelled mostly overland through thirty two countries, including working his way across the South Pacific on a Danish banana boat. He sent postcards and letters back to our group of friends, and we were always excited to read his amazing stories.
Between operating three different hotels in northern Ontario, he travelled (with his family in the later years) throughout much of the Pacific Rim from Japan to Thailand and Viet Nam, Bali, Australia, New Zealand, many South Pacific Islands, Chile, Peru, Columbia and all of Central America and Mexico between 1978 and 1992, compiling information about Third World Eco-Tourism Marketing for his post-graduate thesis at the University of Victoria on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. He finally made San Jose, Costa Rica home-base for himself and his two teenage sons in 1995, operating two more successful hotels, the Hemingway Inn in central San Jose, and presently Adventure Inn in the central valley closer to the airport. Over the past twelve years, Eric has founded three non-profit Costa Rica eco-hotel associations, with a total of over fifty independent hotels strategically located throughout the country. Through his writings, the internet and room, tour and car rental reservations, he has properly advised literally thousands of people with their travel plans, and has built up quite a repertoire of questions that he has direct experience with, or has researched and answered, regarding Third World travel.
Eric's interests, other than writing about his world travels, are his family first, photography, his dogs, establishing litter pick up programs for public school kids in San Jose, Costa Rica, and masters swimming, in which he is a world class competitor. His next competition is the World Championships in Perth, Australia in April, 2008.
Eric believes that honesty in marketing has longevity, telling you both the good and the bad. After seeing the
Though he knows he is often preaching to the converted, he suggests your stay and travels should impact minimally and only positively on the indigenous physical, cultural, economic and ecological setting. We all need to observe, listen, understand and empathize rather than see, hear, take pictures and boast. If we prefer the familiar comforts of home, ask ourselves why we are traveling? With this approach, future visitors will equally enjoy the experience of an exotic Third World adventure.
I hope Eric and I will always stay in touch. Sometimes I feel I live vicariously through him. These days we use e-mails and MSN. It is so refreshing to hear his thoughts, covered in humour, from whatever corner of the world he may be reporting from.
[edit] Adventure Hotels destinations and qualified hotels from around the world
[edit] Asian hotels
- Japan hotels
- Beijing hotels
- Taiwan hotels
- Taipei hotels
- Hainan hotels
- Philippines hotels
- Manila hotels
- Hanoi hotels
- Bangkok hotels
- Chiang Mai hotels
- Koh Samui hotels
- Phuket hotels
- New Delhi hotels
- Kuala Lumpur hotels
- Jakarta hotels
- Bali hotels
[edit] Australian hotels
[edit] New Zealand hotels
[edit] Pacific Island hotels
[edit] Micronesia
- The Federated States of Micronesia hotels
- Marshall Islands hotels
- Palau hotels
- Northern Mariana Islands hotels
- Nauru hotels
- Kiribati hotels
- Guam hotels
[edit] Melanesia
[edit] Polynesia
- Cook Islands hotels
- Niue hotels
- Samoa hotels
- Tonga hotels
- American Samoa hotels
- French Polynesia hotels
- Easter Island hotels
[edit] Hawaii
- Hawaii in general
- The Big Island hotels
- Maui hotels
- Moloka'i hotels
- Lana'i hotels
- O'ahu hotels
- Kaua'i hotels
[edit] Central America
[edit] Central America hotels
- Guatemala hotels
- Belize hotels
- Honduras hotels
- El Salvador hotels
- Nicaragua hotels
- Costa Rica hotels
- Panama hotels
