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The travel industry has been soaring this year but so has airfare to Asia. The whole continent has so many wondrous places to check off your travel bucket list that it is worth the price of admission.
From solo travelers in Sri Lanka to luxurious resorts in Vietnam and everything in between, Asia is truly magnificent.
Although the latest hotspot in Asia might surprise you. Commonly known as the “Las Vegas of Asia”, this vibrant city is so much more than its gaming reputation.
The secret is trickling out, and many travelers are taking a gamble on the autonomous region of Macau. And so should you.
Here are 7 reasons why Macau is the hottest new destination in Asia:
Foodie Paradise
Locals claim the food scene has changed year by year, with some popular eateries being pushed out and replaced by newer, more Instagram-worthy grub.
The beauty of Macau is that it’s a blend of old and new. Lately, it is “the new” that’s attracting more travelers as the city has become much more sophisticated.
It’s no different for the food scene, and travelers will salivate over Macau’s menus. With a little digging, visitors can find traditional food from Macau’s past while also embracing new flavors to appease palates from all over the world since Macau is a global destination.
From street vendors to Michelin-starred chefs, there is something for everyone.
Hotel Heaven
Looking at the skyline of Macau’s gargantuan marvels, it is quite surprising to know it is actually not a very big city.
Compared to other popular cities across Asia, this could be an example of why it slips under the radar.
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But given its appeal to travelers from all over the world as an entertainment hub, it should be no surprise that Macau has an amazing selection of hotels to choose from.
In fact, Macau has the most 5-star hotels out of any city on the planet. Guests can immerse themselves in city-themed hotels such as The Parisian Macao or The Londoner Macao, where they are meticulously designed to feel like you are in Paris and London.
Dropped Mask Mandates
Macau recently dropped mask mandates outdoors for the first time in years. Even more recently, masks are not required on public transportation.
As Macau is considered mainland China, it is quite simple to enter. Given that most other countries had little to no COVID requirements at a time when Macau was still full-force in Pandemic Mode, it was not an appealing destination.
Now that mask mandates are being dropped slowly but surely, it has become more attractive. Macau’s popular casinos do not require masks to be worn.
Macau Grand Prix
Macau is home to the Macau Grand Prix, where drivers race at unfathomable speeds against one another.
Events were canceled during the COVID-19 pandemic but are a popular attraction now that Macau, and the world, have opened back up.
Both high-speed cars and motorcycles hold events here, such as the GT Cup scheduled for November 16 to 19 this year.
Easier To Reach Than You Would Think
Even though Macau is the hottest new city in Asia, it may not come to mind for those looking to visit Asia. Big names like Tokyo, Bangkok, or Bali may come to mind first, which are all easy to reach from the U.S.
While there are no direct flights from the U.S., Macau can be reached with just one connection.
Some common airports that fly direct to Macau:
- Manila (MNL)
- Tokyo (HND and NRT)
- Bangkok (DMK and BKK)
- Seoul (ICN)
- Singapore (SIN)
More Events
Macau used to solely be known as a gaming destination for other Asian countries to enjoy. Now, Macau intends to become more mainstream and host more events than in the past.
As if the Grand Prix isn’t enough, there will also be the International Boat Rowing Festival. While some concerts have not been announced, it is anticipated many commercial pop artists will headline shows.
Not to mention other cultural performances to leave tourists with an unforgettable experience.
Casinos, Of Course!
Even though Macau is working hard to shed its gaming reputation, that doesn’t mean it’s not a driving force for tourism.
Macau is home to some of the most upscale casinos in Asia and lives up to its prior “Las Vegas of Asia” reputation.
The good news is you don’t have to travel here just to gamble; there is a lot more to do and see. Not every hotel even offers gaming, but casinos are not hard to find either.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
