Of a land across the ocean - Macau - Part 4

As much as I dislike to say it, the Venetian in Macau is nice BUT a pale comparison to the actual Venice. It's almost too clinical, too neat, too nice, too picture perfect!?! Water is too clean? But no doubt, it looks very beautiful, with the wonderful artificial blue sky, the sweeping arches, the canals, the wonderful buildings, etc. There are even gondolas to be tried. Customed performances, shopping galore, what is there not to like?

Seriously though, it is a marvel in itself, being housed within a building, with casinos, hotels, etc. It makes for an interesting visit, and promises wonderful architecture when one visits the European countries. Wonderful colours abound, but somehow, too picture perfect, at least to me.

However, it is a must see if you really visit Macau, as it is certainly an attraction in itself. So, after all that, I think Macau is a buzzing city, with bright lights and many tourist attractions. But within that hustle and bustle, there is a feeling of calmness, more so when you visit Coloane. Old folks aplenty, taking strolls, siting on benches whiling the time away on the phone (and one of my friends jokingly said, probably on the phone to the remisier punting the market away). And amidst all the visitors, life goes on, with bricklayers, road menders, bus drivers, and shopkeepers. All trying to make a living and make some sense of life.

I guess wherever one would go in Macau, the sights and sounds, be it in the city centre or outskirts, would draw one and all over and over again. For some, a day trip is sufficient, but for me, even three days were insufficient to see and feel this wonderful place. Just be prepared to be adventurous with lots of walking. After all, that's the best way to visit a new place. Sometimes it is not the destination which matters, it is the hidden gems you find along the way that makes it all worthwhile (but still, my poor aching feet!).