An Impromptu Solo Day Trip to Macao

By Zahra Sachikonye, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

3 hours before we were meant to depart for Macao my friend called to let me know she was ill and would not make it. The ferry was booked, the tickets were non-refundable, and I had bought a Macao data pack and cleared my schedule. I felt sad for my friend who had invited me on this trip but could not go. We both agreed that I should go anyway and make the most of the day.

So with little planning, a couple of nerves and a hopeful heart, I got ready for my first official solo trip to another country (besides moving to Hong Kong, of course!). Here is everything I wish I’d known before going to Macao and a my rough itinerary in case you are planning your own trip to Macao and are not sure where to start!

General Advice

Insurance

Your university insurance does not cover your travel to other countries so make sure to buy separate travel insurance for any country you visit, even if it’s just for a day.

Money

You can use HKD in Macao but try to bring smaller notes as they will likely give you change in MOP which you will then have to exchange when you get back. Also, bring some coins for use on public transport as you need exact change. The bus costs $6 on all routes and there are plenty of services.

My Itinerary

10:20 AM Arriving at Sheung Wan station

I hadn’t eaten breakfast, so I grabbed some snacks from the 7-11 before heading to the ferry. I recommend arriving at the MTR station 45 minutes before your planned departure. I got lost trying to find the ferry station and ended up rushing through immigration which was quite stressful as my HKID would not scan.

11 AM The ferry promptly departs

12 PM Arriving in Macao

1 PM Senado Square touring and Lunch

I walked from the ferry to Senado Square where there were plenty of shops and restaurants. There is a wide variety of food options in the area including Portuguese-Macao fusion restaurants that reflect the history of the country

2:30 PM Sight-seeing in the Macao peninsula

I walked from the restaurant where I had lunch to the famous Ruins of St Paul to start my time of sight-seeing. Following this I visited various historic buildings and landmarks just wandering around aimlessly. I really enjoyed exploring this beautiful city and stopped by a souvenir shop to buy some postcards for my family.

4 PM Bus to Taipa Village

4:30 PM Exploring Taipa Village

The Taipa village website includes suggestions of cultural experiences, food and events taking place in the area. I spent my time wondering through busy areas like Cunha Street and then found myself a peaceful pergola to sit and have a snack.

5 PM The Venetian Macao

I took a walk, maybe 20 minutes, to the Venetian Macao. Here I wandered through and witnessed the incredible architecture, never-ending stores, bustling casinos and tasteful design.

5:30 PM Relaxing by the dock and reflecting on the day

Right next to the Venetian Macao I spotted a lake which looked so peaceful I had to visit. Sitting by the dock, I was finally able to take in the day. This was probably my favourite moment from my trip. The weather was perfect, there were birds sitting beside me and the sun was setting behind a beautiful city skyline. To my right, the gorgeous waterfront view.

6PM Rest and Reflection

 I finished my time in Taipei back in the main village trying different local foods including the famous Portuguese egg tart! I walked to a supermarket to buy a bottle of water and more snacks for my journey home. Here I found another beautiful pergola to have a snack and plan my trip back to the ferry.

8PM Ferry back home

Unfortunately, the ‘sea turbulence’ on the way back was awful and I got intense motion sickness. It was so bad the room was still rocking as I tried to fall asleep that night. This was a helpful lesson for me as I was well-equipped with motion-sickness remedies for my next ferry journey.

Not to be dramatic but my time in Macao was pretty life changing. I realised I LOVE solo travelling, and this would only be the start of my travel diaries.