About Macao

View the Vibrant Macao at https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/en/.

Located on the western bank of the Pearl River Delta in southern Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China, Macao adjoins the Mainland city of Zhuhai and lies some 60 kilometres to the west of Hong Kong. Macao comprises Macao Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane. Macao Peninsula is the hub of the territory and is connected to Taipa by three bridges. Several large international hotel resorts – with new supporting infrastructure – are located on the reclaimed land between Taipa and Coloane in the newly developed district known as Cotai.

The Portuguese arrived and settled in Macao in the mid 16th Century. Thus, the city’s architecture, art, religion, traditions, food and community reflect the integration of Chinese, Western and Portuguese cultures. Macao became a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China on 20th December 1999 and exercises a high degree of autonomy under the principle of “One country, two systems”. The SAR is growing in size with more buildings on reclaimed land, and in the number and diversity of its attractions. In 2005, The Historic Centre of Macao was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a result of its unique historical and cultural landscape. Macao is currently positioning itself as the World Centre of Tourism and Leisure as it develops into a quality international tourist destination.

Macao is eight hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8). Chinese and Portuguese are the official languages while Cantonese being most widely spoken. The official languages are used in government departments in all official documents and communications. English is generally used in trade, tourism and commerce.

Currency

  • The Pataca (MOP) is Macao’s official currency, which is linked to the Hong Kong dollar (HKD).
  • MOP 103.20 = HKD 100.00. MOP 8.00≈USD 1.00
  • Currency exchange service is available at the airport, piers, most hotels, plenty of banks and bureaux de change on Macao streets.
  • Electronic transactions are common and broadly accepted credit cards include China UnionPay, American Express, JCB, Visa and Mastercard. However, transaction fees from the card-issuing banks may apply. Alipay is also becoming more common.

Climate & Clothing

  • Macao’s climate is temperate throughout the year. The average temperature is about 23°C (73°F), ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 26°C (79°F). It is rather humid, with the average relative humidity reaching 79%.
  • It is often sunny in the winter months from December to March although it can be a little bit cold. Woolens are recommended along with a thick jacket or an overcoat to keep warm during winter.

Water & Electricity

  • Macao’s water is supplied directly from Mainland China and is purified. Chlorine is added for extra protection. Distilled drinking water is supplied in all hotel rooms and in restaurants.
  • Electricity in Macao is at 230V, 50Hz. The power plugs used in Macao are of the three-pin, square-shaped or round-shaped type.

Healthcare & Hospitals

Communication

  • Internet Services: Macao is one of the most ‘connected’ cities in the world. You can connect to a hotspot with Wi-Fi network name containing the word “FreeWiFi.MO” to enjoy free Wi-Fi service. See more info at www.freewifi.mo.
  • Telephone Service:
    Country code for Macao is 853 and outgoing international code is 00.
    Tourism Hotline: +853 2833 3000 provides comprehensive information about restaurants, hotels, sightseeing spots, museums, entertainment, shopping, transportation, etc.