Finally, a long over-due recognition of one of Southern China's most historic yet misinterpreted gems!

Little Macao, a stone throw away from one of the world's most modern cities -Hong-Kong- is a city with a lurid reputation. Often branded as an Asian Las Vegas, the historic monuments of the city are ,for most part, simply a quick distraction from the glitzier casinos dotting the landscape. Not that the local tourist body isnt doing much, in fact, they have (IMHO) done a great job promoting and highlighting the city's cultural treasures.

Well, maybe the WHS listing can finally balance Macao's image as more than just a casino disneyland.

There's a wealth Portuguese architectural treasures in Macao, a city whose charming Iberian facade blends seamlessly with her age-old Chinese roots. For sure, it's a very touristy place especially in the heart of main square (Largo de Senado) but I would to think that thats heritage preservation economics in action. But wander off a little bit and its a world unto its own. Hilly streets open up to intimate pastel colored Iberian plazas, baroque churches, colorful Cantonese temples or busy alley ways that's so evocative of Old China. There's pobablly no other place in the world like it.

So after youve done the roulletes, go and explore Macao's churches, temples, plazas, houses and forts. For sure, it'll be million-dollar experience