Casino & Gambling
Gambling
is an essential part of the culture and everyday life of Macau.
Together with Las Vegas and Monte Carlo, Macau is one of the most
popular and famous gambling paradises in the world.
There are now about nineteen casino's here with many of them open
twenty four hours a day and crammed full of optimistic gamblers
throwing money around, especially at the weekends. The biggest games
here include Baccarat, Black Jack, Roulette and a Chinese game, Dai
Siu. Most of the casinos have rule books that you can study before
getting in on the act.
Gambling has been a great boost for tourism in Macau and the two
pillar industries (gambling and tourism) bring an incredible amount
of revenue to the region. Compared with Las Vegas casinos, gambling
houses in Macau are smaller in scale and facilities. Despite this,
some of the stakes here are amazingly high.
The hand-over in 1999 made many fear that the Chinese government
would crack down on gambling and other such vices. However, Beijing
clearly realize the economic benefits of allowing this
"capitalist...lifestyle" to continue for the next fifty years at
least and have promised not to stop the fun....yet.
The government has pledged to crack down on the seedier side of
things here however. In recent years especially, Macau has been
ruled by triad gangs who have become increasingly violent and
frightening in their approach and tactics. Although no tourists have
been harmed as a result of the gang warfare, it is wise to act
sensibly, particularly late at night. Avoid roaming around
(especially with your winnings!) on your own after dark.
Rules and regulations: Foreigners must be at least 18 years old to
enter the casinos. There are also dress codes which apply. Men are
not permitted to wear shorts or vests and flip flops are completely
forbidden! Furthermore, photography is strictly banned.
The Culture of Macau
The
unique history of Macau combines Chinese and Western culture and
produces a society that is a wonderful combination of East and West.
Traditional Western and Chinese
celebrations take place here throughout the year and local residents
embrace the diverse aspects of these very different cultures.
Chinese Spring Festival and the Dragon Boat festival are large and
ceremonious occasions here.
International Dragon-boat races have
been held since 1980 in Macau with many participants from Asia,
Europe, America and Australia taking part. Celebrations are also
held during religious festivals. "The Birthday Of A-Ma-Gau", and
"Lady Fatima's birthday" have become a part of the national
calendar.
The majority of residents on Macau are
Chinese but the small (5%) Portuguese minority have a very different
culture. The influences in the Portuguese culture here are numerous;
Moorish, French, Italian and of course, Spanish. The religious
festivals celebrated by the Portuguese are very colorful and vibrant
and the high quality and authentic Portuguese cuisine which is
available here is another reflection of the two cultures existing in
this small area.
