After arriving from Hong Kong by ferry I thought I'd come to construction workers' heaven. Probably there still aren't enough luxury hotels and casinos in Macao. To avoid this overwhelming first impression, I would advise any first-time visitor to take a taxi or bus from the ferry to the historical center of town. Macao really is a nice place, if you know where to look.

I used the ICOMOS report on the inscription of Macao as a WHS as my guidebook. Many historical places, spanning the 16th to 19th century, can be found in Macao's historical center. This area (including a typical market square) is best explored on foot.

Guia Hill, the second zone of monuments, is situated in a residential district with some more fabulous colonial houses. A cable car can take you uphill, but I couldn't find it so I dragged myself up via the road. The small tourist information on the hill does a good job in providing an airconditioned room and has water and tissues for sale. Sure I'm not the only one who walks all the way up. The lighthouse and chapel are in good repair and did remind me a bit of Brazil (where the colonial Portuguese heritage is much more extensive).

It was already late in the afternoon when I arrived at my final destination: the A-Ma Temple. Or Ma Kok Miu in Cantonese, I discovered together with my taxi driver - don't expect everybody to speak English here. A lovely temple that marks the earliest beginnings of Macao, nowadays a bit off the beaten track.

All in all, Macao is a great day trip from Hong Kong. Besides the colonial buildings, I also found its atmosphere more authentic Chinese. Allow at least one full day here.