Holy Macau

Just an hour-long ferry ride from Hong Kong is China's other "special administrative region" -- the former Portuguese colony of Macau. This Friday, Oct. 1, was the Chinese national holiday, celebrating the formation of the communist state. It meant another day off school, so with a friend, I made the journey to Macau.

Although it is so close, the city is surprisingly different from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. One of Macau's main industries is gambling, so one side of it is very Las Vegas-esque with flashing neon lights and towering casinos. The SAR is actually made up of three islands, and the lengthy bridges connecting them are somewhat reminiscent to the Golden Gate.

But for me, the beauty of the city lies in the remnants from Portuguese rule. The old town, which is a UNESCO world heritage site, reminds me of photos I've seen of Mexico or Central America. There are Spanish-style buildings painted bright colors such as pink or yellow, with lovely white trim. As you walk through the streets, suddenly you come upon little piazzas with palm trees or giant banyans and iron lampposts. There are Vespas everywhere, and just a general feeling of Europeanness that is warmer and softer than Hong Kong's Western aspects.

Macau is also known for its Portuguese egg tarts. Mine was quite delicious, served warm with the custard filling surrounded by a flaky pastry. My favorite food encounter in Macau, however, was the almond cookies sold at numerous stores around the old town. They are the hardest, densest cookies I've ever eaten, very grainy in fact; but the explosion of almond flavor in your mouth as you eat them is extraordinary. Of course, I bought several to take home with me.

In a way, it's funny that Macau and Hong Kong are so different, as they have a shared history of colonization and then being returned to China. But, I'm glad the similarities didn't deter me from visiting such a lovely city.