Chinese Las Vegas

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  Macao, Macau
Tuesday, March 20, 2007

From Hong Kong, it was only an hour ferry ride to Macau, an island that is making a name for itself as China's Las Vegas.  Casinos from Vegas have even opened branches there, and though they supposedly aren't quite as elaborate as in Vegas, they were quite impressive to someone who'd never seen Vegas! Long streets are in the process of being constructed on the wharf that are lined with sparkly new, old-fashioned, European style buildings.  The casinos had elaborate themes like Aladdin's palace, Chinese palace, a volcano, and a Mississippi river boat.  Even under construction, there was plenty of entertainment on the new streets, and in the older casinos.

Calling Macao a Chinese Vegas doesn't quite do it justice.  That means that every person who comes to Macao simply compares it to a neon light and casino filled city out in the middle of the desert of the U.S.   Macao was a Portuguese colony and much of its architecture, its windy, hilly streets, and its food are reminiscent of Europe and Portugal.  I felt at home on the tiny streets of Macao, picturesque streets that tricked my eyes into thinking I was in Europe, but was reminded by my nose that the smells of dried fish were exclusively Asian.  It was a wonderful combination!  The food especially was incredible.  Stuffed crab was my favorite appetizer, and I loved the unique flavor of the curried crab-shrimp dishes that didn't seem at all Chinese, but had the flavors of Thailand, and a hint of the Portugal that Jason visited.  The wines were wonderful too, and for the first time in months we were waited on by knowledgeable servers who were eager to recommend the perfect wine to complement our dishes.  Macao was a wonderful treat!

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